Srinagar: The Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Kashmir (KU), in collaboration with the Department of Endocrinology, SKIMS Soura, organised a day-long awareness and consultation programme on “Understanding and Managing PCOS” at the university’s main campus on Thursday.
The initiative, aimed at addressing the increasing prevalence of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) among young women, included expert lectures, awareness sessions, and a free clinical consultation camp. The medical camp was held at the Diagnostic Centre, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, where students and staff received screening, counselling, and treatment guidance.
In her inaugural address, KU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan said that women’s health remains a priority for the institution and emphasised the need for accurate medical information at the grassroots level. “Access to accurate medical guidance empowers young women to make informed health decisions. Universities must create more supportive spaces for managing such conditions,” she said.
Director SKIMS, Prof. Ashraf Ganaie, stressed the importance of collaborative awareness programmes to counter misinformation around PCOS. “There is a need to debunk myths and recognise PCOS as a manageable condition. Community-level awareness is equally important as medical treatment,” he observed. Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, underscored the need for regular health counselling on campuses, stating that such programmes contribute significantly to student welfare and academic productivity.
Head of Clinical Biochemistry, Dr. Tanveer Ali Dar, said the programme aimed to bridge the gap between clinical research and public awareness, encouraging early diagnosis and lifestyle-based intervention. The event featured lectures by Dr. Cimona Lyn Saldanha, Professor & Head, Obstetrics and Gynaecology SKIMS; Dr. Farah, Associate Professor, Dermatology SKIMS; and Dr. Saleem Baba, DM Endocrinology SKIMS. The experts discussed gynaecological, dermatological and hormonal aspects of PCOS, along with management strategies.
