Srinagar: Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) on Monday announced the launch of a ground-breaking “Head Injury Awareness Program”, spearheaded by its Department of Neurosurgery and Neuroanesthesia.
The initiative, under the leadership of Director SKIMS & EOSG, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Ashraf Ganie aims to address the rising incidence of head injuries in the region through education, prevention strategies, and community engagement.
Head injuries, often caused by road accidents, falls, sports, and domestic incidents, are a leading cause of disability and mortality in Kashmir. Delayed recognition and inadequate pre-hospital care exacerbate outcomes, highlighting the critical need for public awareness. This multidisciplinary program will focus on several key areas including community education initiatives, including workshops, seminars, and door-to-door campaigns.
The aim is to raise awareness about the early signs of head trauma, such as confusion, vomiting, and loss of consciousness. Besides, prevention strategies will emphasize the importance of helmet use, safe driving practices, and child safety measures. Additionally, first responder training will be provided to police officers, teachers, and drivers, equipping them with essential emergency response skills. To further reinforce awareness, interactive sessions will be held to engage young people in safety practices and informational resources such as pamphlets, posters, and digital content in local languages will be distributed widely, especially in schools and colleges.
Director of SKIMS & EOSG, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Ashraf Ganie, highlighted the vital point that head injuries are preventable, and with timely intervention, their potentially devastating consequences can be minimized or even avoided. He emphasized the importance of early detection and prompt medical response in cases of head trauma, stressing that quick action can significantly reduce the risk of long-term complications and, in many cases, save lives.
Prof. Ganie also commend the efforts of the departments, especially the Departments of Neurosurgery and Neuroanesthesia, for their leadership in launching the “Head Injury Awareness Program.” He said that the initiative aligns with SKIMS’ broader mission of promoting excellence in healthcare and community service.
His recognition of the collaborative efforts among multiple departments reflects a unified commitment to addressing a growing public health challenge in the region. In addition, Prof. Ganie emphasized that the long-term goal of this initiative is to bridge the gap between healthcare providers and the community.
The event was attended by several luminaries, including the Associate Dean of Academics, Medical Superintendent, faculty members from the Departments of Neurosurgery, Neuroanesthesia, and other departments, as well as police officials. The general public and students from various schools and colleges were also present, showing strong community engagement in this important cause.
It was collectively echoed that raising awareness and educating the public is vital their message reinforced the idea that healthcare is a shared responsibility, where both medical professionals and citizens play a vital role in responding to emergencies and saving lives.
Dr. Sarabjit Singh Chibber, Head of Neurosurgery, added, “Awareness reduces long-term complications and mentioned that we urge the public to prioritize safety and seek immediate medical help for head trauma.”
