The Ataxia Awareness Society (AAS), Indore, in collaboration with Sancheti College of Physiotherapy, organized an Ataxia Awareness Seminar on September 30, 2023, at the auditorium of Sancheti Hospital to commemorate International Ataxia Awareness Day (IAAD).
Ms. Swasti Wagh, President of the Ataxia Awareness Society, welcomed attendees at the beginning of the seminar. The first session featured Dr. Ichaporia, a Senior Neurologist from Pune, who provided valuable information on the symptoms, causes, and types of Ataxia. Despite its rarity and lack of a cure, Dr. Ichaporia emphasized that proper counseling could significantly improve the quality of life for Ataxia patients.
Dr. Radha Bhattad, Head of the Department at Sancheti College of Physiotherapy, followed with insights on how physiotherapy can help control the progression of Ataxia. She demonstrated specific exercises designed for Ataxia patients and highlighted various auxiliary machines available in the market.
The second session included a presentation on the “Genetics of Ataxia” by Dr. Mansi Kunte, an assistant professor at the Gene Health Centre in Pune. Dr. Mohammed Faruq from I.G.I.B., Delhi, focused on recent developments in the genetics of Ataxia and its future prospects. Dr. Apoorva Pauranik, a Senior Neurologist from Indore and Patron of the Ataxia Awareness Society, shared insights on genetic counseling.
A short play on “Ataxia” was presented by students of Sancheti Physiotherapy College under the direction of Dr. Amruta Ekbote. The hybrid mode of the seminar allowed participation from outside Pune through Zoom, enabling a broader audience. Mr. Manan Gupta, Representative of AAS, moderated the event, and Mr. Sagar Singh extended gratitude to all participants. Overall, the seminar successfully disseminated crucial information and fostered awareness about Ataxia in society.