Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 29: KMC Hospital organised a walkathon today to mark World Heart Day. The event commenced at 6:30 am from KMC Hospital, Dr B R Ambedkar Circle, and concluded at Marena Sports Complex, Kaprigudda.
Over 1,200 participants from various walks of life, including fitness enthusiasts, young adults, the elderly, and groups from corporate and college institutions, turned the streets into a vibrant display of red. The event began with an energetic Zumba warm-up session, and participants followed a route passing by IMA Hall, raising awareness about cardiovascular health.
The walkathon was officially flagged off by DCP of Crime and Traffic, B P Dinesh Kumar, with national-level athlete and Khelo India representative Ayush Devadiga serving as the torchbearer. ACP Geeta Kulkarni of the City Crime Record Bureau, District Health Department representative Dr Naveen Kulal, IMA Mangaluru president Dr Ranjan, and Rotary International district governor Vikramadatta D G were present at the occasion.
Teams from Indian Oil, Adani Group, Coast Guard, MRPL, Canara Bank, Hotel Avatar, Indiana Hospital, Nitte Institute of Hospitality, Laxmi Memorial College of Nursing, Athena Nursing Institute, Aliya College of Nursing, and Yenepoya actively participated in the event. They won awards in various categories such as Best College/Institution Participation, Best Corporate Participation, Most Enthusiastic Participants, Best Slogan Shouting, Best Placard, Reels Making, E-Poster, and Cold Cookery. Rotary International, IMA Mangaluru, the Cardiology Society of India, and Mangalore Runners Club contributed to the event's success.
This walkathon was part of a broader month-long campaign by KMC Hospital aimed at increasing awareness about heart diseases, their causes, and preventive measures. The initiative encourages the community to adopt heart-healthy practices, including regular physical activity.
Dr Narasimha Pai, head of cardiology at KMC Hospital, emphasized the importance of heart health, stating, "With the rise in lifestyle-related diseases, engaging in regular physical activity is more important than ever. Events like this walkathon provide an excellent platform to spread awareness and encourage healthier habits."
Dr Dilip G Naik, pro-vice chancellor of MAHE – Mangaluru campus, shared his enthusiasm, saying, "This World Heart Day, we aim to unite the community to raise awareness about heart health. We are thrilled to see active participation from all walks of life in this meaningful event."
Cardiology and cardiac surgery team members Dr Maneesh Rai, Dr Rajesh Bhat, Dr Vijay, Dr Harish R, and Dr Iresh Shetty were also present.
World Heart Day, celebrated annually on September 29, raises awareness of cardiovascular diseases and emphasizes preventive measures to combat their global impact. This year's campaign focused on educating the public about heart health risks and promoting a heart-healthy lifestyle. Through initiatives like this walkathon, KMC Hospital continues to reinforce its commitment to community well-being and cardiovascular health.