Two ECG Machines Donated During Karnataka Mental Health Conference

BENGALURU, September 23, 2026: Two Electrocardiogram (ECG) machines were donated to healthcare institutions in Karnataka during the Regional Mental Health Conference 2026, highlighting the need to address physical and mental health together.

The two-day conference, organised by the Catholic Mental Health Ministry, Karnataka, was held on September 19 and 20 at Palanna Bhavan, Archbishop’s House, Bengaluru. It brought together mental health professionals, healthcare workers, religious leaders and community representatives to discuss ways of improving mental health awareness and reducing stigma.

The conference was inaugurated by Bishop Joseph Susai Nathan, Auxiliary Bishop of Bengaluru. Its theme was “Empower Minds, Break Stigmas: Educate, Advocate, Ignite Action.”

In his message, Archbishop Peter Machado of Bengaluru stressed the importance of education, awareness, advocacy and action in responding to mental health concerns and promoting holistic well-being.

As part of the conference, the Health Commission of the Diocese of Udupi, in collaboration with the CAD Foundation, donated two ECG machines to Sacred Heart Hospital, Kodagu, and St Joseph’s Health Centre, Theresapura, Bengaluru. Bishop Joseph Susai Nathan handed over the equipment to representatives of the two institutions.

The initiative comes under Cardiology at Doorsteps (CAD), which seeks to make cardiac screening more accessible to communities and facilitate the early detection of cardiovascular diseases. The programme is led by Dr Padmanabha Kamath, founder of the CAD Foundation, under the vision of “Healthy Hearts – Healthy Communities.”

Mrs Hilda Cornelio, Director of the Health Commission of the Diocese of Udupi, attended the programme along with commission members Dr Ren Trevor D’Souza, Dr Rayan Mathias and Dr Sony D’Costa.

Bishop Joseph Arumachadath of Bhadravathi, President of the Health Commission, addressed the gathering through a pre-recorded video message. He underlined the importance of compassion in healthcare, community participation and a holistic approach to individual well-being.

The conference provided a platform for dialogue on mental health and the challenges faced by individuals, families and communities. Speakers emphasised that mental and physical health are closely interconnected and require an integrated approach.

Organisers said the ECG machine donation would strengthen community-based healthcare by enabling earlier cardiac screening and bringing essential diagnostic services closer to people, particularly in communities where access to specialised healthcare may be limited.

By Catholic Connect Reporter