Caring for Every Breath, Every Birth, Every Life: A Community Health Conversation for August
- Arvind Pawar
- Sep 6
- 4 min read
Arvind Pawar
Co-founder of Hyperlink Health
Dr. Kavitha Madhuri
Ph.D. in Gynaecological Oncology;
(The events happened in August but still relevent)
August offered us an important opportunity to pause and reflect on a range of health concerns that impact individuals and families across India.
From lung cancer to malaria, from maternal health to preventive care, this month features several global and national health observances that remind us of our shared responsibility to protect life in all its forms.
In this article, we explore the significance of these awareness days and offer ways we, as a building and neighbourhood community, can respond with compassion, action, and knowledge.
1. Breathing Matters: World Lung Cancer Day (1st August)
Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths globally, and India is no exception. While often associated with smoking, it also affects non-smokers—particularly those exposed to air pollution, second-hand smoke, or environmental toxins.
Key Facts:
Early symptoms can include persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, breathlessness, or chest pain.
Air quality and exposure to pollutants are rising concerns in urban India.
What Can We Do?
Avoid smoking and help others quit—consider a community tobacco-free campaign.
Install indoor air purifiers or plants that naturally filter air.
Encourage early check-ups for persistent respiratory issues.
2. Safe Pregnancy, Safe Birth: National Safe Motherhood Day (11th August)
India was the first country to officially recognize Safe Motherhood Day, highlighting the urgent need for accessible maternal health services.
Challenges:
Many women still lack access to antenatal care, nutritional support, or safe delivery facilities.
High-risk pregnancies in rural and urban underserved communities often go undiagnosed.
Community Actions:
Partner with local clinics or ASHA workers to organize antenatal check-ups.
Offer nutrition kits or host wellness workshops for expecting mothers in the area.
Raise awareness about the importance of postpartum care, mental health, and breastfeeding.
3. Wellness Begins at Home: Ayushman Bharat - Health and Wellness Centre Day (14th August)
The Ayushman Bharat initiative aims to bring comprehensive primary health care to every Indian through over 1.5 lakh Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs).
Why HWCs Matter:
They provide free essential drugs, diagnostics, and wellness services.
Emphasis on prevention, nutrition, mental health, and community engagement.
As a Community:
Map the nearest HWC and share the information through posters, WhatsApp groups, or notice boards.
Invite local HWC teams for health talks in your building/tower.
Support access to services for elderly residents or domestic staff.
4. A Rare Blood Disorder with Real Impact: World Hemophilia Day (17th August)
Hemophilia is a genetic disorder where the blood doesn’t clot properly, leading to excessive bleeding from even minor injuries. Though rare, the challenges are real and lifelong.
What You Should Know:
Most people with hemophilia are diagnosed in childhood.
Routine injections of clotting factor can help prevent serious complications.
How to Support:
Organize a blood donation drive—since hemophilia patients may need blood products.
Share emergency contacts and protocols in your building for residents with chronic conditions.
5. Love Your Liver: World Liver Day (19th August)
The liver, often overlooked, plays a crucial role in digestion, detoxification, and metabolism. Lifestyle choices today directly impact liver health.
Liver Risks:
Alcohol consumption, hepatitis infections, obesity, and over-the-counter medication misuse can all damage the liver.
Steps Toward Liver Health:
Promote regular liver function tests for at-risk individuals.
Encourage reduced alcohol intake and healthy diets.
Hold a ‘Healthy Cooking Demo’ event with liver-friendly recipes.
6. The Battle Against the Bite: World Malaria Day (25th August)
Malaria remains a serious public health issue in many parts of India, especially during the monsoon months.
What We Face:
Rising mosquito populations due to stagnant water and climate conditions.
Resistance to some malaria drugs is an emerging concern.
Preventive Measures:
Eliminate mosquito breeding grounds in and around the building/towers.
Use mosquito nets and repellents, especially for children and the elderly.
Coordinate with local municipal bodies for fogging and sanitation drives.
7. Universal Wellness: World Health Day (7th August)
While World Health Day is often celebrated globally on April 7th, some local organizations in India also mark this day in August as a reminder to revisit its annual theme. The 2024 theme is "My Health, My Right."
Why It Matters:
Health is not a luxury—it’s a basic human right.
Inequalities in access to care, medication, and even health education persist across income and geography.
How to Honor the Day:
Conduct a “Know Your Numbers” event with BP and sugar level screenings.
Host a rights-based health workshop for residents and domestic workers.
Discuss mental health, LGBTQ+ health rights, and access to inclusive care.
Conclusion: A Healthier August, A Stronger Community
August’s health observances are not just symbolic—they are an invitation.
An invitation to care, to act, and to uplift each other.
By engaging in simple acts—sharing information, organizing events, reaching out to someone in need—we reaffirm that health truly is a shared responsibility.
Let’s turn our buildings into ecosystems of empathy. Let’s bring health home.
If you or your family would like to volunteer in any of the community wellness projects mentioned above, please reach out to the building committee or your Resident Welfare Association.
Because when we protect each other’s health, we protect our future.
If you would like to engage and reach us if you have any suggestions, please get in
touch with the us at arvind.pawar@hyperlink.health
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