Senior Medical Officer Dr Jitendra Kumar and other health officials distribute nutrition kits to tuberculosis patients at Community Health Centre, Pratap Nagar.
Fifty tuberculosis patients to receive nutrition support under an initiative backed by Vishwas Foundation, with health officials stressing the importance of balanced diet alongside regular treatment
YAMUNANAGAR | PEN OF DEMOCRACY NEWS DESK
Community Health Centre, Pratap Nagar, organised a nutrition support programme for tuberculosis patients under the chairmanship of Senior Medical Officer Dr Jitendra Kumar, with nutrition kits being distributed to support patients undergoing treatment and recovery.
The initiative has been made possible with the support of Vishwas Foundation, which has arranged nutritional assistance for TB patients from the Pratap Nagar and Chhachhrauli areas. Under the programme, 25 identified patients from Pratap Nagar and another 25 from Chhachhrauli are being provided nutrition kits, taking the total number of beneficiaries to 50.
Health officials said the initiative is aimed at ensuring that patients receive not only regular medical treatment but also adequate nutritional support during the recovery process. Doctors emphasised that tuberculosis treatment requires a combination of prescribed medicines, regular medical supervision and a balanced diet capable of supporting the body’s nutritional and immunity requirements.
Addressing the patients during the programme, Dr Jitendra Kumar highlighted the importance of proper nutrition in the management and recovery of tuberculosis. He said that patients should continue taking their medicines regularly and also pay close attention to their daily diet.
According to him, a balanced and nutritious diet can help patients regain strength and improve their overall health during treatment. He advised the beneficiaries to use the food items provided in the nutrition kits regularly and specifically for their own health and recovery.
The nutrition kits contain a range of food products intended to support the nutritional needs of TB patients. These include protein powder, roasted chickpeas, pulses, peanuts, jaggery and other nutritious food items. Health officials said such items can contribute to the intake of protein and other essential nutrients that are important for maintaining strength during illness and recovery.
Dr Jitendra Kumar explained that nutrition plays a significant role in supporting patients whose physical strength may be affected by prolonged illness. He said regular consumption of nutritious food, along with prescribed medicines, can help patients improve their health and gradually return to their normal daily activities.
The programme also focused on spreading awareness about the relationship between nutrition, immunity and infectious diseases. The Senior Medical Officer pointed out that people with poor nutrition and weakened immunity may be more vulnerable to infections. Therefore, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is an important component of overall health.
Health officials advised TB patients not to discontinue or alter their prescribed treatment without medical consultation. They were encouraged to remain in contact with healthcare workers and attend follow-up consultations as advised.
The programme at CHC Pratap Nagar was organised as part of continued efforts to provide support to identified tuberculosis patients in the region. The health department had informed all 25 identified beneficiaries in the area through healthcare workers about the distribution of the nutrition kits.
Officials said that patients who were unable to attend the programme and collect their kits on the scheduled day would also be given an opportunity to receive the nutritional support. Such beneficiaries can visit Community Health Centre, Pratap Nagar, in the coming days according to their convenience.
Medical Officer Dr Parminder Pal Singh also interacted with the patients and distributed nutrition kits during the programme. He encouraged the beneficiaries to remain positive and continue their treatment as advised by medical professionals.
He assured the patients that efforts would continue to provide them with possible assistance and nutritional support during the course of their treatment. The programme was also intended to motivate patients to complete their treatment and follow medical advice consistently.
The health officials stressed that community support and awareness are important in the fight against tuberculosis. Timely diagnosis, regular medication, follow-up care and adequate nutrition can collectively support patients during the treatment process.
The distribution of nutrition kits was welcomed as an additional support mechanism for patients and their families, particularly those who may face difficulties in maintaining a nutritious diet while undergoing prolonged medical treatment.
The initiative also reflected the role of voluntary and social organisations in supporting public healthcare efforts. Vishwas Foundation’s contribution to providing nutrition kits has enabled the health authorities to extend additional assistance to patients identified in both Pratap Nagar and Chhachhrauli areas.
Officials said that the objective is to ensure that every identified beneficiary receives the available nutritional support and remains connected with the healthcare system throughout the treatment period.
The programme was attended by Medical Officer Dr Parminder Pal Singh, Dental Surgeon Dr Jitendra Kumar, Jaspal Singh, Nursing Officer Priya, counsellor Ramesh and other staff members of the health centre, along with local residents and dignitaries.
The health department reiterated its message that tuberculosis patients should follow their treatment plan regularly, maintain a nutritious diet and remain in touch with healthcare professionals. Patients were encouraged to seek guidance whenever required and to utilise the available healthcare and nutrition support services.
Through such initiatives, the health authorities aim to combine medical treatment with nutritional assistance and community awareness, helping TB patients receive comprehensive support during their journey towards recovery.