One day Pediatric disability screening camp in Chalamatti village

Community Physiotherapy dept. of SDM College of physiotherapy attended one-day Pediatric Disability Screening camp in the Chalamatti village. Staff, PGs, interns, and final-year students participated in the camp. Chalamatti village has a population of 5000 people, under which 4 Anganwadis are established at different locations ( Ugnikeri village).

A total of 100 children of the age between 0-6 years were screened for developmental milestones (which include gross, fine motor, social and cognitive development), age-appropriate food calorie intake, and nourishment.

A total of 15 children were identified as undernourished (in the yellow zone)and 2 children were identified as malnourished (in red zone).

3 children were identified with developmental delay and 3 children were reported with typhoid fever and viral infections. 1 child was identified with a speech issue, 1 child was identified with a social issue and 1 child was identified with a dermatological issue.

Along with the screening, the education and awareness level of the Anganwadi teachers and self-help groups (SHGs) regarding developmental milestones, adiqaute nutriton, and age-appropriate food calorie intake in infant, toddlers and children were assessed. The education and the awareness level of the teachers and SHGs regarding the same was low. Hence after the screening, Anganwadi teachers, SHGs, and mothers of the children were educated about normal developmental milestones, proper nutrition, and food calorie intake. They were also taught to identify the warning signs and to do a close monitor on High-risk babies.educational and awareness material in the form of posters was given for their reference.

The children with disabilities were referred to SDM hospital for further evaluation and management.