Media Release
Mangaluru, May 12: On the occasion of World Lupus Day, the department of rheumatology at KMC Hospital Attavar organized a special awareness programme for Lupus patients on May 9, with the objective of creating awareness about Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) among Lupus Warriors, the general public, and the medical fraternity.
The highlight of the programme was the inauguration of Mangaluru’s first comprehensive Lupus Clinic at KMC Hospital Attavar by Dr Sheetal Ullal, associate dean of KMC Mangaluru, through the ceremonial lighting of the lamp.
The newly established clinic aims to provide comprehensive and multidisciplinary care for Lupus patients under one roof by bringing together specialists from rheumatology, nephrology, dermatology, and ophthalmology, thereby ensuring holistic treatment, counseling, and long-term follow-up care.
The programme was attended by Dr Sheetal Ullal, associate dean, KMC Mangaluru; Dr Srikala Baliga, professor, department of microbiology, KMC Mangaluru; Dr Satish Rao, professor and head, department of medicine, KMC Mangaluru; Dr Shivaraj Padiyar, professor, department of rheumatology, KMC Hospital Attavar; and Dr Prathyusha Manikuppam, associate professor, department of rheumatology, KMC Hospital Attavar.
As part of the awareness initiative, Dr Rameela Shekhar, director of Manashanthi Counselling Centre, delivered an expert talk on the mental health challenges faced by Lupus patients and the importance of coping strategies and emotional well-being in long-term disease management.
The event also featured a multidisciplinary panel discussion involving Dr Bhushan Shetty from nephrology, Dr Ramith Shetty from dermatology, Dr Shivaraj Padiyar, and Dr Prathyusha Manikuppam from Rheumatology. A testimonial session was conducted during which Lupus patients shared their personal experiences and journeys in managing the condition.
The event was compered by Uday Bhat, and the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr Prathyusha Manikuppam.
The newly inaugurated Comprehensive Lupus Clinic at KMC Hospital Attavar will offer specialized medical care, professional counseling support, patient education, and dedicated long-term follow-up services tailored specifically for individuals living with Lupus.