Mysore/Mysuru: To create awareness on the importance of timely action due to sudden medical episodes such as heart attack, stroke or a serious accident, Manipal Hospital, Mysuru, had organised a Health Summit on Emergency Response and Basic Life Support at its premises here recently.

Presided by Dr. A.R. Maqsood Ahmed, Senior Consultant – Neurosurgery (Cerebrovascular & Endovascular Surgery), Dr. N.M. Sharath Babu, Consultant – Interventional Cardiology and the Hospital’s Emergency Specialists Team — Dr. Syed Mushiruddin, Dr. Gautham Chandra, Dr. Rayala Saguna Datta and Dr. Ameena Husna — the event brought together doctors, emergency specialists and members of the public for a highly relevant awareness session. The Summit reinforced a powerful message that saving lives was no longer the sole responsibility of healthcare professionals.

“Many people lose precious time simply because they do not know what to do. Recognise the early warning signs of stroke using the FAST formula: F – Facial deviation, A – Arm weakness, S – Speech difficulty, T – Time to call emergency services. Early action can prevent severe disability and loss of mobility,” said Dr. Maqsood Ahmed.

Dr. Sharath Babu highlighted the rising incidence of cardiac emergencies occurring outside hospital settings. “Heart attacks often happen at home, at work or on the road. When bystanders know emergency cardiac care basic life support and respond calmly, it bridges the critical gap until advanced care is available,” he explained.

Hospital’s Emergency Specialists Team members Dr. Syed Mushiruddin, Dr. Ameena Husna, Dr. Gautham Chandra and Dr. Rayala Saguna Datta guided the participants through a simple yet lifesaving techniques, including Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), handling unconscious individuals and immediate steps to take during accidents.

Participants were encouraged to ask questions and practise techniques with confidence.  Certificates were distributed to all attendees who successfully completed the orientation.