To promote health, preventive care, and awareness about public health issues.
Besides being an educationist, I am also serving as a community influencer of the Health and Population Department, Gujranwala. In this capacity, I regularly engage with communities to promote healthy lifestyles, preventive care, and awareness about public health issues.
Today, after the Holy Mass at Saint Francis Xavier Parish, Gujranwala, I had the opportunity to deliver an important awareness message to the parish community, focusing on hygiene practices and the use of natural food for a healthier life.
The gathering after Mass provided a meaningful platform, as people from different age groups and families were present together. I began my message by highlighting that good health is not only a personal responsibility but also a collective duty. Clean and healthy individuals contribute to strong families, and strong families build a healthy society. I emphasized that many common diseases can be prevented simply by adopting basic hygiene practices in daily life.
Special emphasis was placed on personal hygiene, including regular handwashing with soap, especially before eating and after using the washroom. I also discussed the importance of keeping homes, kitchens, and surroundings clean to prevent the spread of germs, bacteria, and seasonal illnesses. Parents were encouraged to develop hygiene habits in children from an early age, such as brushing teeth regularly, bathing daily, wearing clean clothes, and maintaining cleanliness in schools and play areas.
Alongside hygiene, I strongly emphasized the role of natural and healthy food in maintaining good physical and mental health. I explained that natural food—such as fresh vegetables, fruits, grains, pulses, milk, and home-cooked meals—provides essential nutrients needed for growth, immunity, and energy. In contrast, excessive consumption of junk food, fast food, and sugary drinks can lead to health problems such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and digestive issues.
The community was encouraged to choose seasonal and locally available foods, as they are not only healthier but also more affordable. I highlighted the importance of clean drinking water and advised families to boil or filter water where necessary to avoid waterborne diseases. Mothers, in particular, were motivated to prepare balanced meals at home and reduce reliance on packaged and processed food for their children.
I also connected the message of health with faith and responsibility, reminding the community that caring for one’s body is a form of gratitude for the blessings of life. A healthy body enables individuals to serve their families, community, and society more effectively. The audience responded positively and showed keen interest in adopting healthier habits.
In conclusion, the awareness message delivered after Mass aimed to inspire practical action rather than mere listening. By practicing hygiene and choosing natural food, communities can protect themselves from preventable diseases and build a healthier future. Such community- based awareness efforts, especially in faith-centered spaces, play a vital role in promoting public health and social well-being in Gujranwala.
