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The Department of Rheumatology, Fauji Foundation Hospital,
Rawalpindi, commemorated World Scleroderma Awareness Day on 1 July 2026,
marking the culmination of Scleroderma Awareness Month (June). The event was
attended by the Worthy Commandant, Major General (R) Adil Hasnain, Dean of
Medicine, Major General (R) Tassawar Hussain, faculty members from various
hospital departments, junior doctors, and medical students. Palestinian
medical students also participated enthusiastically, reflecting their keen
interest in learning about this challenging disease. The primary objective of the event was to
enhance awareness among healthcare professionals regarding scleroderma, a
rare and complex autoimmune disease that remains under-recognized and poorly
understood despite its significant impact on patients’ lives. The program commenced with an
informative lecture by Dr. Haris Gul, Specialist Rheumatologist, who
discussed the diverse clinical manifestations of scleroderma, with particular
emphasis on the importance of early recognition and timely diagnosis to
improve patient outcomes. The lecture was followed by an engaging MCQ-based
quiz for junior doctors and medical students. The enthusiastic participation
of the young clinicians demonstrated their eagerness to expand their
knowledge and fostered optimism for greater awareness and improved management
of scleroderma in the future. Following the academic session, participants
gathered for a group photograph. The event concluded with a Scleroderma
Awareness Walk within the hospital premises, symbolizing unity and commitment
towards supporting individuals living with this complex disease. Commemorating awareness days such as this plays a vital role in
educating healthcare professionals, inspiring hope, and strengthening
solidarity within the medical community. By promoting awareness, encouraging
early diagnosis, and extending compassion and support, we can help ease the
burden carried by patients with scleroderma and their families as they
navigate the many challenges of this lifelong condition. |
