Shillong, Oct 26: The Adventist Medical Empowerment Network (AMEN India) organised a four-day lifestyle conference on the theme ‘Purpose Beyond Profession’ from October 22 to 25 at the Rural Resource Training Center, Umran in Ri-Bhoi district.
The conference brought together Adventist doctors, nurses and allied health professionals from across Northeast India to strengthen prevention of lifestyle-related diseases.
Doctors flagged the rising burden of non-communicable diseases including heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, cancer and obesity, noting that prevention needs collective action by health professionals, families and communities.
Professor and Head of Radiology and former Medical Superintendent, NEIGRIHMS, Dr. C. Daniala highlighted the NCD epidemic and need for coordinated response.
AMEN India President and Professor of Medicine at CMC Vellore Dr. Samuel George Hansdak said everyday behavioural choices drive chronic disease and stressed empowering people to adopt healthier lifestyles.
Psychologist and Dean Academics, RAAK Group, Puducherry, Dr. Arun Gunalam spoke on how social environment, screens and media influence health behaviour, while Dr. Enoch Sundaram, lifestyle consultant and CEO, AG Lifestyle Center, Kodaikanal, presented evidence on how comprehensive lifestyle interventions improve outcomes and support remission in selected cases.
Dr. Wetzel Russ dela Cruz, GP at Mount of Blessings Hospital, Philippines, highlighted spirituality, compassionate communication and holistic care.
Sessions covered healthy nutrition, physical activity, restorative sleep, stress management, positive relationships and avoidance of harmful substances, with emphasis on integrating lifestyle interventions with medical treatment.
Organisers said the conference holds special relevance for Northeast India where access barriers make community-based prevention crucial.
