Mumbai: The Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI), in collaboration with Bayer, hosted the 75th Continuing Medical Education (CME) meeting under the ‘Preserve the Uterus’ initiative on July 7, 2024.
The initiative aims to create awareness about the prevalence of untimely and unnecessary hysterectomies in India. Since its inception, this initiative has seen numerous CME meetings, engaging over 5,500 healthcare professionals, to them on modern gynaecological management practices. The initiative now covers over 75 gynaecology societies, with its latest venue – Mumbai.
According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4) 2015–16, 3.3 per cent of Indian women aged 15–49 had undergone a hysterectomy. The prevalence varied across regions, with the highest rates in Andhra Pradesh (8.7 per cent) and Telangana (8.2 per cent), followed by Bihar (6 per cent) and Gujarat (4 per cent). The northeastern region had the lowest prevalence at 1.2 per cent. Nationally, most hysterectomies were performed in private facilities (69.6 per cent), whereas in the northeast, the majority were conducted in public health facilities (73 per cent).
Expressing his views on the occasion, Dr Jaydeep Tank, President, FOGSI, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to reducing unnecessary hysterectomies and promoting superior healthcare practices. “We are dedicated to reducing unnecessary hysterectomies whilst striving to optimise access for women who need them and other healthcare services. Collaborating with Bayer and MOGS, we aim to take this initiative to preserve the uterus and enhance women’s health. Increased awareness will help eliminate related taboos and support doctors in managing various gynaecological disorders,” he said.
Shweta Rai, Managing Director – India and Country Division Head – South Asia, Bayer Pharmaceuticals, said, “Over the last two years, Bayer has steered this initiative with a grassroots level engagement, and we are proud to champion women’s health and overall well-being. As a key stakeholder, Bayer is deeply concerned about the number of untimely and sometimes unjustified hysterectomy cases. With a healthy engagement of 75 gynec societies and over 5500 healthcare professionals, we further aim to engage government bodies and raise awareness among women, empowering them to make informed health choices.”Dr Priyankur Roy, Chairperson, Public Awareness Committee, FOGSI, shared his thoughts on the importance of informed medical practice in advancing women’s health. “This 75th meeting aims to equip healthcare professionals with the latest insights and techniques in managing patients with benign gynaecological disorders, emphasising our commitment to comprehensive care and better patient outcomes,” he said.
