Category health

Mumbai, June 2, 2025 — Shoppers at Oberoi Mall in Goregaon were in for a chilling surprise on World No Tobacco Day as ‘zombies’ staggered through the premises, holding placards that read, “I died young. Thanks, tobacco” and “This is what 15 cigarettes a day looks like.”

The dramatic activation was part of a day-long public awareness campaign by HCG Cancer Centre, Borivali, aimed at highlighting the dangers of tobacco use and its direct link to rising oral cancer cases.

Alongside the walk, a zombie-themed interactive photo booth drew in hundreds of curious onlookers, many of whom posed for pictures while being confronted with sobering facts about tobacco-related illnesses.

To encourage early detection, HCG Cancer Centre Borivali also distributed free cancer screening coupons to men and women during the event, a step towards proactive health checks, especially among high-risk groups.

According to the National Cancer Registry Programme, oral cancer accounts for over 30% of all cancers in India’s male population, with a significant number of cases detected late. Experts point to social acceptance of chewing tobacco and early-age initiation as major contributors.

The outreach extended beyond the mall. In collaboration with the Swayamsiddh Yog Group of the Indian Yoga Association and under a BMC health initiative, a free oral cancer screening camp was held for local residents. Dr. Yash Mathur, Head & Neck Surgical Oncologist at HCG Cancer Centre Borivali, conducted a health talk that emphasized early detection and the growing incidence of oral cancers among younger populations.

“Over 80% of oral cancer patients we see have a direct history of tobacco consumption — often smokeless forms like gutka or khaini,” said Dr. Mathur. “Awareness has to begin before symptoms appear.”

Commuters at Borivali Station were greeted by a digital LED message urging them to “Buy Tickets, Not Tobacco” — a simple but poignant reminder on one of Mumbai’s busiest railway lines.

Mr. George Alex, Western India Regional Business Head at HealthCare Global Enterprises (HCG), added, “Our goal was to go beyond posters and pamphlets. We wanted to create something disruptive, thought-provoking, and impossible to ignore. By engaging people where they are in malls, stations, and local communities, we are making the conversation around tobacco and cancer prevention louder and more relatable.”

Mr. Avik Chauhan, Chief Operating Officer, HCG Cancer Centre, Borivali, said, “At HCG Borivali, our focus has always been on community-centric care. This campaign was designed to spark conversations and make people pause and reflect on the real cost of tobacco use. Through interactive engagements and free screenings, we are taking early detection and education directly to the people who need it most.”

The World No Tobacco Day campaign served as a city-wide reminder of the need for public health dialogue, especially among younger audiences often targeted by flavored and smokeless tobacco marketing.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. A Jayachandra, Clinical Director & HOD, Sr. Consultant – Interventional Pulmonology at CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, said, “Tobacco is not just about cancer. It’s a major cause of chronic respiratory diseases, oral precancerous conditions, asthma complications, and even cardiovascular problems. What’s even more concerning is how aggressively tobacco and vaping products are being promoted to young people in India.”

“Smoking damages the airways and lungs, making breathing difficult. Long-term smokers often suffer from chronic bronchitis, emphysema, interstitial lung disease, and repeated infections. Smokeless tobacco, gutka, and vaping are no safer — they come with their own set of life-threatening consequences,” added Dr. Jayachandra.

“We need to break the myth that tobacco is a personal choice. It affects not just the individual but also their families and the nation. Youth are especially vulnerable, and the tobacco industry exploits this by packaging harmful products in attractive, flavored formats,” said Dr. Jayachandra.

As for quitting, doctors emphasize that tobacco addiction is medical and behavioral, and help is available. “Nicotine replacement therapies, non-nicotine medications, and counseling work best when combined. Quitting isn’t easy, but with proper support, it is absolutely possible,” he added.

Bangalore, 30th May 2025: Fortis Hospital Nagarbhavi has successfully treated a 68-year-Old woman who had been suffering from severe shoulder arthritis for over two years. The condition caused her intense pain and severely limited her ability to perform daily activities. A reverse total shoulder replacement surgery was performed under the expert care of Dr. Manjunath Kodihally, Consultant – Orthopaedics, Fortis Hospital Nagarbhavi and his team. The patient was discharged within a day post the surgery, with noticeable improvement in the shoulder movement and function.

Manjunath Kodihally

Patient Mrs. Basanti, a retired schoolteacher and resident of Bengaluru, had been living with persistent shoulder pain that got worse over time. The pain affected her right shoulder and severely limited her ability to carry out everyday activities such as dressing, combing her hair, cooking and even lifting a cup of tea. Despite visiting several hospitals across the city and undergoing months of physiotherapy, she found no relief. As her condition progressed, the constant pain began to impact her sleep and overall well-being, leaving her feeling frustrated and emotionally drained. What once seemed like simple, routine activity had become a painful challenge, affecting her independence and quality of life. Looking for a solution, she turned to Fortis Hospital Nagarbhavi, where she hoped to finally regain comfort and mobility.

After a thorough evaluation at Fortis, Dr. Manjunath diagnosed her with a rotator cuff tear – a condition in which the tendons (tough cords of tissue that connect muscles to bones) are torn, leading to pain, weakness, and restricted movement. Given the extent of damage and its impact on her daily life, the medical team recommended reverse shoulder replacement, a proven surgical option for such cases.

Speaking about the case, Dr. Manjunath Kodihally, Consultant Orthopaedics Fortis Hospital Nagarbhavi, said, “Given Mrs. Basanti’s advanced shoulder arthritis, reverse total shoulder replacement was the most effective treatment option. This advanced surgical technique offered her a chance to regain shoulder movement and function that conventional methods could not provide. The procedure, which took less than an hour, marked a major turning point in her life. During the surgery, the damaged joint was replaced with an artificial implant designed specifically to improve mobility and relieve pain. Post-surgery, she experienced a significant reduction in pain along with improved strength, flexibility and stability in her shoulder. This type of surgery is especially beneficial for patients with severe shoulder damage, such as that caused by rotator cuff tears, helping them restore full range of motion and return to an active, pain-free life. Thanks to this successful intervention, Mrs. Basanti can now look forward to a more independent and comfortable future.”

Dr. Tejaswini Parthasarathy, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital Nagarbhavi, said, “At Fortis Nagarbhavi, we prioritize patient well-being and strive to deliver world-class orthopaedic care. By combining advanced surgical techniques with compassionate, patient-centric approaches, we offer cutting-edge treatments that address the unique needs of each individual. Our commitment to clinical excellence ensures the best possible outcomes for our patients.”

New Delhi, 29th May 2025: MedLern, a leading digital learning platform for healthcare professionals, announced a collaboration with OMNI Hospitals, a prominent multi-specialty healthcare provider, to enhance training and development initiatives across five of its branches- Omni Kothapet, Omni Kukatpally, Udai Omni, Omni Vizag, Omni Kurnool

This partnership will leverage MedLern’s cutting-edge digital Learning & Development (L&D) solutions to streamline training processes, improve staff competency, and foster a culture of continuous learning within OMNI Hospitals. By implementing MedLern’s training modules, real-time assessments, and compliance tracking, OMNI Hospitals aims to further elevate its standards of patient care and operational efficiency.

Vijayakumar.S, GM HR Omni Group, commented on this partnership, stating, “We are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality of care, and investing in the continuous development of our staff is essential to achieving this goal. MedLern’s innovative digital learning solutions will help us to enhance staff competency, improve patient outcomes, and maintain our position as a leading healthcare provider.” 

Deepak Sharma, CEO of MedLern voiced his enthusiasm – “We are excited to partner with OMNI Hospitals and support their commitment to providing exceptional healthcare services. Our digital learning platform will empower their healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in their roles and deliver the best possible patient outcomes.” 

The collaboration will initially focus on five OMNI Hospitals branches, with plans for future expansion. The digital L&D solutions will be tailored to meet the specific needs of each branch, ensuring that all healthcare professionals receive relevant and engaging training.

This partnership highlights MedLern’s unwavering commitment to transforming healthcare education through innovative digital learning solutions. By equipping hospitals across India with cutting-edge training tools, MedLern empowers healthcare professionals to enhance their skills, improve patient outcomes, and maintain the highest standards of care. With a strong focus on accessibility, efficiency, and continuous learning, this collaboration ensures that medical staff remain up-to-date with evolving best practices and industry advancements. Through this initiative, MedLern is not only bridging knowledge gaps but also fostering a culture of excellence, ultimately elevating the overall quality of healthcare delivery across the nation.

Canada’s healthcare system, once a model of universal care, is now grappling with severe challenges. Over 6.5 million Canadians lack a family doctor, and non-emergency procedures face indefinite delays. This crisis has compelled many Canadians to seek medical treatments abroad, turning to countries like Mexico, Germany, and India to bypass domestic healthcare gridlocks.

For instance, Patients from Toronto have to wait around 8 months to see a back-ache specialist, only to be rejected without consultation.This trend isn’t isolated to Canada. Patients from the UK, Australia, and parts of Europe are increasingly seeking medical care abroad due to long wait times and overburdened systems.  In the UK, approximately 348,000 residents travelled abroad for medical treatment in 2022, a significant increase from previous years. Similarly, an estimated 57% of Australians travel abroad annually for medical procedures.

India, in particular, has emerged as a preferred destination, offering a combination of affordability, quality care, and minimal waiting periods.

India’s Ascendancy in Medical Tourism

India’s medical tourism sector is experiencing exponential growth. Valued at approximately USD 8.71 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 16.21 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 13.23% during the forecast period (2025-2030). Several factors contribute to this surge:([medicalbuyer.co.in][1])

Cost-Effective Treatments: Medical procedures in India are significantly affordable than in Western countries. For example, as per a NITI Aayog report, the average cost of a knee replacement procedure for foreign patients in India is around $6,600, which is less than half of the cost in Thailand, $14,000.

High-Quality Care: India boasts over 1,600 NABH-accredited hospitals and numerous JCI-accredited facilities, ensuring international standards of care.

Government Initiatives: The ‘Heal in India’ campaign and the extension of e-medical visas to nationals of 167 countries have streamlined the process for international patients seeking treatment in India.

Diverse Medical Services: India offers a wide range of treatments, from advanced cardiac and orthopaedic surgeries to holistic therapies like Ayurveda and Yoga, catering to a global clientele seeking holistic care. “Amid a growing global healthcare exodus, India is emerging as a trusted epicenter for affordable, high-quality medical care. What sets India apart is not just its world-class clinical expertise, but also its strategic accessibility—direct air routes from key markets like the U.S., UK, Middle East, and Africa—and a culturally familiar, English-speaking medical workforce that inspires patient confidence.

In 2024, India issued over 463,000 medical visas, and its medical tourism market was valued at approximately $8.19 billion, underscoring its growing appeal as a destination for quality and affordable healthcare, and is projected to reach $27.18 billion by 2032, reflecting a robust CAGR of 16.18% . As the global demand for timely, high-quality, and cost-effective medical solutions surges, Global Care Health stands at the forefront of this transformation. With a presence in over 75 countries, including Asia, the Middle East, CIS, Africa, and the Caribbean, we specialize in creating seamless clinical pathways that connect international patients to India’s top-tier hospitals, many of which are JCI, AACI and NABH accredited. Our comprehensive services encompass pre-travel treatment planning, visa facilitation, interpreter assistance, 24/7 guest relations, and post-operative care. As global demand for timely, high-quality, and affordable healthcare surges, GlobalCare Health remains committed to bridging healthcare gaps and delivering exceptional patient experiences.” Shared Rajeev Taneja, Founder and CEO, GlobalCare Health.

“Medical Linkers has been at the forefront of facilitating medical journeys for patients worldwide. India’s healthcare landscape has transformed remarkably, with state-of-the-art facilities and a patient-centric approach. We’ve assisted numerous Canadians and others from developed nations who, facing prolonged wait times at home, found prompt and effective treatments in India.  We are currently facilitating an innovative non-invasive Parkinson’s treatment in India with Cyberknife, which is available only in India for now. The positive outcomes and patient satisfaction that India offers reinforce our position as a global healthcare hub.” Sonam Garg Sharma, Medical Linkers.

The strain on healthcare systems in countries like Canada has inadvertently spotlighted the efficiency and effectiveness of medical tourism destinations like India. With its blend of affordability, quality, and comprehensive care, India is not just addressing the immediate needs of international patients but is also setting a benchmark for global healthcare solutions.

By- Ms. Prachi Narkar, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, AIMS Hospital, Dombivli.

Children can show early signs of mental health issues through their behaviour, emotions, and physical health. Hence, recognising these signs early can help parents support their children better and get timely help.

Mental health is as important for children as it is for adults. But often, parents overlook signs in children, thinking it’s just a phase.  However, many children experience mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or mood disorders. The causes can be due to academic pressure, financial struggles, family stress, trauma, death of a loved one, bullying, and lack of emotional support. Moreover, these issues can severely impact their learning, relationships, and overall well-being. So, understanding the early signs can make a big difference in helping children cope better and lead healthier lives.

Parents, watch out for these signs
· Mood swings : Children may become sad, angry, or irritable without any apparent reason. These mood swings may last for days and affect their behavior at home or school. They will constantly feel agitated, too.

· Withdrawal or isolation : If a child who was once active and outgoing suddenly avoids friends or stops talking to family, then try to seek timely help. It can be a sign of stress and depression.

· Sleep problems : Difficulty falling asleep, nightmares, or sleeping too much can be associated with stress or anxiety.

· Changes in eating habits : Eating very little or overeating can indicate stress or anxiety.

· Loss of interest : A sudden lack of interest in hobbies, school, or play may be a warning sign.

· Difficulty focusing : Children may struggle to pay attention or follow instructions, which can be mistaken for laziness or misbehaviour.

May 28, 2025: Artificial intelligence is accelerating the early detection of developmental conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD), potentially allowing children to begin therapy earlier and significantly improving their long-term outcomes.

That has made ASD a proving ground for the use of AI in pediatric medicine. Numerous pilot projects have shown promising results and hope that machine learning techniques can be applied to other conditions.

Why It Matters

The parents of children with ASD tend to notice developmental challenges some time before the child turns 3 years old. However, there are frequently lengthy delays in testing and diagnosis. In many countries, the typical age of diagnosis is between 5 or 6 years old.

On top of that, ASD tends to be diagnosed through questionnaires rather than blood testing or genetic testing. As a result, there are concerns about standardization of the responses and children are frequently misdiagnosed.

“AI excels at identifying subtle behavioral and genetic patterns that humans may overlook due to cognitive biases or limitations, ensuring more consistent and objective early diagnoses,” said IEEE Senior Member Dheerendra Panwar.

Emerging Methods

Researchers have used a variety of methods to detect ASD. One method used sensors and imaging to detect changes in speech and language skills. IEEE Fellow Shrikanth Narayanan was awarded the IEEE 2025 James L. Flanagan Speech and Audio Processing Award for that line of research.

Brain scans have also emerged as a screening tool. One group of researchers used machine learning to determine that children with autism applied different amounts of force and moved their fingers differently while playing touchscreen games, providing yet another avenue for diagnosis. Because that research is noninvasive, other researchers furthered touchscreens as a diagnostic tool and invented ways to distinguish autism from other, closely related conditions.

Next Steps

While the research has been promising, most of the results are still in the experimental phase and little has been done in clinical settings.

So far, one smartphone app has gained FDA approval as a diagnostic screening device for autism, though it should be used in conjunction with other medical information.

But the success of AI-driven autism studies have driven hope for diagnostic tools in other areas, like dyslexia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and depression, according to a paper found in IEEE Xplore.

Research in this area continues. If upcoming larger trials continue to show accuracy and efficiency, AI-driven developmental assessments could become a normal part of 18- or 24-month well-child visits.

By-Dr. Smrithi D Nayak, Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Aster RV Hospital

Placenta Previa is a serious pregnancy complication that poses considerable risk to both mother and baby. Recognizing its dangers and the importance of timely medical care is crucial to ensuring positive outcomes. With advancements in obstetric management and improved awareness of maternal health, the ability to navigate high-risk conditions like placenta Previa has significantly improved. 

What is Placenta Previa?

Placenta Previa occurs when the placenta implants low in the uterus and partially or fully blocks the cervix—the birth canal for a vaginal delivery. This abnormal placement can cause severe bleeding as the pregnancy progresses, particularly in the third trimester. Because of this obstruction, vaginal delivery becomes unsafe, making caesarean section the preferred mode of childbirth in most cases. Although it affects approximately 1 in every 200 to 500 pregnancies, certain factors increase the likelihood of its occurrence. These include a history of previous caesarean sections, multiple pregnancies, prior uterine surgeries, or maternal age over 35. 

Why Placenta Previa is Considered High-Risk?

The foremost danger associated with placenta Previa is sudden and severe haemorrhage, which can occur without prior symptoms and escalate rapidly. This kind of bleeding endangers the life of both mother and baby, often necessitating emergency medical intervention. Other potential complications include preterm delivery, placental abruption (premature separation), and, in severe cases, the need for a hysterectomy to control bleeding.

Given these life-threatening risks, placenta Previa is classified as a high-risk pregnancy, requiring constant monitoring and proactive care from diagnosis to delivery. 

Multi-Disciplinary Management: A Critical Strategy 

Successful management of placenta Previa demands a multi-disciplinary approach. Obstetricians work in tandem with anaesthesiologists, neonatologists, interventional radiologists, and critical care teams to develop a delivery plan that maximizes safety for both mother and child. Early identification through prenatal ultrasound is the cornerstone of care. Once diagnosed, patients are closely monitored, and an elective caesarean section is generally scheduled between 36 and 37 weeks. During delivery, comprehensive protocols—including blood product availability, intensive care readiness, and neonatal support—are put in place to prepare for any emergency. 

The Game-Changer:

Internal Iliac Artery Balloon Catheterization Internal iliac artery balloon catheterization has transformed the way life-threatening placental conditions are managed. This technique involves placing balloon catheters in the internal iliac arteries prior to the caesarean section. Once the baby is delivered, the balloons are inflated to temporarily reduce pelvic blood flow, thereby minimizing intraoperative bleeding. This technique is especially valuable in cases where placenta Previa is complicated by abnormal placental attachment, such as placenta accreta, where the placenta grows too deeply into the uterine wall. In such cases, controlling haemorrhage is paramount to avoid maternal morbidity and preserve fertility. 

Promoting Awareness and Preparedness

Placenta Previa underscores the importance of specialized care, preparedness, and public awareness. Regular antenatal visits, access to modern diagnostics, and referral to high-level care centres when needed can make all the difference. Informed patients and vigilant healthcare providers together form the cornerstone of safe delivery practices. In today’s medical landscape, no woman should face life-threatening complications without access to proven solutions. With structured care pathways, expert teams, and technologies like PBO, even complex pregnancies can be managed with confidence and safety.

New Delhi 28 May 2025: Kyno Health, one of India’s fastest-growing health-tech platforms in the primary care space, has announced the launch of its innovative “Doctor at Home in 20 Minutes” service across Delhi-NCR and Bengaluru.

This first-of-its-kind offering is set to redefine how Indian urban households access timely, trusted medical care by delivering qualified doctors directly to patients’ homes in as little as 20 minutes for a 30-minute consultation. The doctors arrive fully equipped with essential medical consumables. Post-consultation, diagnostic tests and nursing services are available, along with proactive follow-ups and continued assistance until full recovery.

Previously operating with a 60-minute consultation promise, Kyno Health has now reduced that time to just 20 minutes by optimizing logistics and enhancing its tech integration. The move marks a significant leap in patient-centric innovation in India’s healthcare delivery system.

Since its inception in 2023, Kyno has completed over 20,000 doctor-at-home visits and achieved an impressive 91 percent patient satisfaction score. The platform aims to bring dignity, efficiency, and ease to one of the most critical aspects of healthcare: immediate access to a doctor when a person feels unwell.

India’s healthcare sector is projected to reach $610 billion by 2026. However, the primary care segment—often the first point of contact for most patients—remains underserved and overlooked. Challenges such as long waiting times, lack of transparency, inconsistent quality standards, and difficulty in finding trustworthy providers continue to plague the system. Kyno Health aims to close this gap by building a doctor-led, technology-enabled ecosystem that empowers patients to receive quality care in the comfort of their homes.

Aditya Gupta, Founder of Kyno Health, emphasized the urgency and purpose driving the platform’s mission.“Every minute a patient spends waiting for medical care is a minute too long. This belief has driven Kyno’s mission from day one. By bringing experienced doctors to patients’ homes within 20 minutes, we’re eliminating barriers that have traditionally separated people from quality healthcare. The impact extends beyond convenience—we’re helping patients address health concerns earlier, before they escalate into more serious conditions. Our vision is to create a healthcare ecosystem where seeking medical attention becomes as frictionless as ordering food or booking a ride, fundamentally transforming how India approaches primary care,” he said.

Kyno’s medical services are designed to serve a wide range of healthcare needs—from seasonal illnesses to long-term chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Their service offerings also include IV drips, vaccinations, nursing services, medicine delivery, and at-home diagnostic tests. These are delivered by rigorously vetted medical professionals under the company’s proprietary “Doctor Excellence Framework,” which includes more than ten technical assessments and a 30-day on-ground training program. The result is a highly trained medical team that has earned the platform a 4.9-star Google rating and a 25 percent repeat rate among patients.

With a current footprint in Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon, and Bengaluru, Kyno is planning to expand to over 15 cities in 2025. To support this expansion and build advanced tech infrastructure, the company is preparing to raise its next round of funding from leading healthcare-focused venture capital firms.