Day of Awareness at 35 School in Almaty. Sustainable Development Goals of the Department of Surgery

On November 20, 2024, a significant presentation was held at School No. 35 in Almaty, aimed at raising awareness about depression and the human papillomavirus (HPV) among students. The event was part of a program focused on improving the psycho-emotional and physical health of schoolchildren, as well as increasing their knowledge about common health issues.

The goal of the presentation was to inform 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students about two serious and current health issues: depression and HPV, which can have a long-term impact on the health of adolescents and young people. The organizers emphasized the importance of early detection and prevention of these diseases, as well as the need to seek help at the first signs of depression.

Special attention was given to explaining how depression manifests in adolescents, how to recognize its symptoms, and how to cope with this condition. The psychologists and medical specialists involved in the event shared advice on managing emotional stress, anxiety, and tension, helping students understand the importance of healthy habits, communication, and emotional support.

Additionally, the presentation covered what HPV is, how it spreads, and the preventive measures that exist. Students were informed about the importance of vaccination, which can significantly reduce the risk of contracting certain types of HPV and prevent the development of various diseases, such as cervical cancer and other cancers related to HPV. Educating adolescents about such conditions, which are often overlooked in public awareness, is an essential part of the health promotion program for the younger generation.

The event included slides, video materials, and interactive discussions that helped students better understand both depression and HPV. The students' active participation in the discussions and their questions demonstrated that the topic was received with interest and seriousness. The presentation was an important step in fostering a healthy attitude toward mental and physical health and in strengthening awareness of the prevention of common diseases.

Thus, the event at School No. 35 in Almaty not only provided students with valuable information about depression and HPV but also marked an important step in the development of healthy habits and a responsible attitude toward their health.

The Venue: 35 School in Almaty

The Organizers: Dr. Akerke Mastetbayeva (DR ENT, responsible teaching assistant of Surgery Department of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, teacher-advisor)

School representatives: head of teaching Tastanova Gulnara Urazovna & nurse Roshangul Musretovna

The participant speakers: Dr. Akerke Mastetbayeva and Group students: GM23-02

50 students of 6th, 7th, and 8th grades