Chattogram: The environment surrounding Chattogram's historic Laldighi undergoes a transformation at dawn and again as the afternoon transitions into evening. Some individuals walk briskly, others jogging and some engage in group exercises. People of various ages-from the young to those over 60-populate this walking path. Many elderly individuals, in particular, frequent this area to maintain their health. Those who become fatigued while walking often take a moment to rest on the benches adjacent to the walkway.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, for anyone experiencing physical discomfort, there is no cause for concern; facilities for monitoring blood pressure and diabetes are readily accessible. To ensure immediate medical assistance for those exercising, several lab technicians and Local Medical Assistant (LMF) practitioners establish their presence by the Laldighi walkway each morning and evening. Equipped with stethoscopes, blood pressure monitors, and diabetes testing kits, they reach out to the elderly walkers and fitness enthusiasts, inquiring, "Would you like to have your blood pressure checked?"
Some individuals sit down out of curiosity, while others opt to undergo diabetes testing to assess their health status. The cost is TK 20 for a blood pressure assessment and TK 50 for a diabetes test. These practitioners have come to be referred to as the "Laldighi Doctors." Local witnesses told BSS that the Laldighi walkway has evolved beyond a mere location for walking or exercising; for many, it has also become a venue for regular health check-ups. Such scenes have become commonplace from dawn until 10:00 pm and from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
A considerable number of senior citizens, in particular, frequent this location for their daily walks. Should they encounter any discomfort during their walking or exercise routines, they seek assistance from the healthcare professionals available on-site for a consultation. Last Wednesday at 8:00 pm, a discussion was held at Laldighi with Abdul Jabbar, a man in his 60s who had come to walk. Jabbar, a recently retired employee from a private bank, shared with BSS, "As I age, I make it a point to engage in morning walks regularly to maintain my health. However, I do have some concerns regarding my blood pressure. I appreciate the convenience of being able to monitor it here whenever I wish."
Another individual who exercises at the facility remarked, "Occasionally, I feel fatigued after my workout; I take a moment to check my blood pressure while resting here. Given that the facility is readily accessible, I ensure that I utilize it." It is not solely walkers or fitness enthusiasts who frequent this place; numerous residents from the surrounding area visit specifically to have their blood pressure or diabetes levels assessed. One such individual is Mohan Dey from K.C. Dey Road. He stated, "One must allocate specific time to visit a hospital or diagnostic center. Since I notice that testing is offered here, I prefer to have it done on-site."
Aravinda Barua, who consistently provides medical support-particularly blood pressure and diabetes assessments-at Laldighi, told BSS, "A substantial number of elderly individuals come to Laldighi for regular physical activity. Many of them face various health risks but do not undergo regular check-ups. We offer them the chance to have these tests conducted right here." He further noted, "On average, 10 to 15 individuals have their blood pressure and diabetes checked each day. This results in an income of 400-500 taka over a few hours."
When asked, Dr. Md. Ekram Hossain, Superintendent of Chattogram General Hospital and a renowned cardiologist, told BSS, "Alongside physical exercise, it is crucial to be aware of one's immediate physical condition. Blood pressure can rise, or blood sugar levels can fluctuate during exercise. It is particularly important for the elderly to keep track of their blood pressure and blood sugar levels." He added, "The availability of easy testing facilities in a public space like Laldighi is a positive development. It also provides an income for some people. However, great care must be taken to ensure accurate blood pressure readings and that the equipment used for diabetes testing is of good quality."