Eye Q and NTPC Enable 100 Successful Cataract Surgeries in Surat Villages

New Delhi, 16th May 2025: Eye-Q, a leading chain of super-speciality eye hospitals, in collaboration with NTPC (National Thermal Power Corporation), India’s largest integrated power producer, successfully concluded a high-impact CSR initiative at the NTPC Surat plant by organizing two free eye screening and cataract surgery camps. As part of NTPC’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitment to the communities around its operations, the initiative helped screen over 250 individuals from surrounding villages, of whom 100 patients underwent successful cataract removal surgeries by Eye-Q’s expert medical team.

A closing ceremony was held on 14 May 2025 to commemorate the successful completion of the initiative. During the event, Eye-Q distributed customized spectacles to all operated patients. The prescriptions were derived after detailed post-operative vision testing conducted on 8th and 9th May. The entire initiative—from screening to surgery to post-operative care—was provided completely free of cost, reaffirming both organizations’ commitment to healthcare equity and social impact.

Dr. Ajay Sharma, Founder and CMD of Eye-Q Eye Hospitals, said, “India faces a backlog of over 22 million blind eyes, representing nearly 12 million individuals, and shockingly, 80.1% of this blindness is caused by cataract—an entirely treatable condition. Our collaboration with NTPC has allowed us to address this burden at the grassroots level by restoring vision to 100 patients in Surat. At Eye-Q, we remain deeply committed to bridging this healthcare gap through accessible, quality eye care for all, especially for underserved communities.”

Dr. Samir Vankhawala, Regional Medical Director of Eye-Q Eye Hospitals, said, “At Eye-Q, we believe that access to eye care should not be a privilege but a basic right. We have a longstanding legacy of delivering quality eye care through free camps and outreach initiatives across underserved regions. This collaboration with NTPC has enabled us to expand that mission further, ensuring our combined efforts bring lasting impact to the communities we serve.”

S J David, Head of Plant at NTPC Hazira, added, “As part of our unwavering commitment to sustainable and inclusive development, this CSR collaboration with Eye-Q reflects NTPC’s dedication to improving the lives of communities in and around our project locations. Healthcare access is a priority area in our CSR strategy, and we are proud that this initiative has delivered tangible benefits to the people of Surat.”

Eye-Q has been a leader in corporate social responsibility (CSR) and outreach programs. The organization has conducted numerous free eye camps, door-to-door check-ups, and health awareness campaigns, impacting communities in need. Since its establishment in 2007, Eye-Q has conducted over 1 crore eye examinations and performed 6 lakh surgeries. Moving forward, the hospital chain aims to perform 80,000 surgeries and conduct 600,000 eye screenings by the end of 2025.

 

Dengue on the Rise in India: A Wake-Up Call

Dengue fever has become a serious and growing health threat in India, especially between July and mid-November. Recent years have seen a sharp rise in cases across the country not just in traditional hotspots, but in newer regions as well, such as Nagaland and parts of Himachal Pradesh. Experts point to climate change as a major reason behind this spread.

According to the National Centre for Vector-Borne Disease Control (NCVBDC) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), dengue cases in India have increased from 28,066 in 2010 to over 2.89 lakh in 2023. In 2025 (as of March), India has already reported more than 16,000 cases, indicating a worrying early trend for the year. This massive and continuing rise highlights the urgency of strengthening our public health systems and response.

Globally, dengue is spreading to new regions too. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that due to global warming, as many as 4.7 billion people could be at risk of dengue by the end of the century.

Dengue is caused by a virus spread by Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes thrive in warm, humid climates. As the climate changes, more parts of India are becoming suitable for their breeding. Higher temperatures speed up mosquito breeding cycles and help the dengue virus multiply faster inside their bodies. Rainfall, flooding, and even water storage during droughts create pools of stagnant water where mosquitoes breed, according to Dr Vikram Jeet Singh, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Aakash Healthcare.

A study published in The Lancet states that climate-sensitive diseases like dengue are likely to rise significantly, especially in South Asia, if countries do not act urgently. northern Indian states like Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh have started seeing regular outbreaks a sign that the traditional “dengue belt” is expanding.

Some media reports recently suggested that a dengue vaccine, Qdenga, has been approved in several countries and is expected to be launched in India next year. Reports claimed that Qdenga can protect people from all four strains of the dengue virus. 

Experts say India must take urgent steps to manage dengue both in the short and long term. In the short term, to combat the rising threat of dengue, a multi-pronged strategy is essential. One of the most effective short-term measures is the use of mosquito nets, window screens, and covers for water storage containers. When used consistently, these have been shown to significantly reduce mosquito bites and dengue transmission, said Dr Sunil Rana, Associate Director and Head of unit III internal Medicine, Asian Hospital. Additionally, biocontrol methods, like introducing mosquito-eating fish into ponds and tanks, have been successfully used in states like Andhra Pradesh to reduce mosquito populations without relying on chemical insecticides, said Dr Sunil Rana.

Stronger partnerships between government and private sector players can amplify the impact of control measures. Businesses can support community clean-up campaigns, fund public awareness drives, or help distribute low-cost mosquito control products, said Dr Vineet Rao, Consultant – General Medicine, Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune. In remote and underserved areas with limited health infrastructure, mobile health clinics and ASHA workers can play a critical role in delivering services such as dengue testing and educating communities on prevention methods, Dr Vineet. At the broader policy level, disaster response plans, especially in flood-prone states like Assam and Bihar, should integrate mosquito control as a key priority.

According to Dr. Aakaar Kapoor, CEO and Lead Medical Advisor at City XRay and Scan Clinic, India should adopt Integrated Vector Management (IVM) a coordinated approach that involves multiple sectors such as health, agriculture, urban planning, and the environment. While India’s National Vector-Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) includes elements of IVM, more coordination and on-ground training are needed to make it fully effective.

However, according to Dr. Praveen Gupta, Principal Director & Chief of Neurology, Fortis Hospital, emphasizes that dengue’s nationwide spread, amplified by climate change, brings not just fever but serious neurological risks like encephalitis, seizures, and Guillain-Barré syndrome. As cases surge year-round, early diagnosis and awareness are crucial. Beyond vector control and vaccines, safeguarding brain health demands urgent, coordinated, and informed public health action.

Public health efforts must be supported by individuals, local communities, and government agencies alike. As India adapts to a changing climate, fighting dengue must become a top priority, not just for health, but for national development, Dr Vikram.

Timely Thrombectomy Saves 32-Year-Old from Stroke at Wockhardt Hospitals

Mumbai – A 32-year-old woman, Mrs. Anuradha Shinde (name changed), experienced a life-threatening ischemic stroke during a routine health check-up, highlighting the underappreciated risks of dehydration and prolonged fasting. Mrs. Shinde, in good general health, had been fasting overnight for approximately 12 hours in preparation for a routine annual health check-up. During this period, she also abstained from drinking water. After her early morning blood tests at a diagnostic center, she entered the washroom to provide a urine sample but did not emerge for over 30 minutes. Concerned staff eventually found her inside the washroom with signs of acute neurological distress, specifically, weakness on the left side of her body.

Dr. Pavan Pai

She was rushed for immediate medical attention. An MRI of the brain revealed that she had suffered an ischemic stroke, affecting the right hemisphere of her brain. She was promptly administered a thrombolytic (clot-busting) injection in an effort to restore blood flow. However, her condition deteriorated rapidly. A follow-up MR angiography showed a complete occlusion of the right internal carotid artery (ICA), the major vessel supplying blood to the brain.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, she was transferred to Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road where a team led by senior neuro-interventionist Dr. Pavan Pai performed a mechanical thrombectomy—an advanced minimally invasive procedure used to remove the clot directly from the artery.

“This case was a stark reminder that even young individuals without prior health conditions can suffer serious strokes under specific circumstances like dehydration,” said Dr. Pavan Pai, Consultant Interventional Neurologist & Stroke Specialist in Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira RoadWhen a person is dehydrated, blood becomes more viscous, or thicker, and this can severely impact circulation. In people who may already have some level of narrowing in their blood vessels, the risk of clot formation and blockage rises dramatically. Mrs. Shinde’s quick transfer and the rapid intervention with mechanical thrombectomy were critical to saving her life and preventing permanent disability.”

Following the procedure, Mrs. Shinde was placed on a comprehensive neurorehabilitation program, which included physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Over the course of three months, she made a remarkable recovery. Today, she has regained full function and is back to work, living independently and without deficits.

This case underscores the importance of awareness around the potential dangers of extended fasting and dehydration, even in the context of routine medical procedures. While fasting is commonly practiced for blood tests, individuals—especially women and those with known or suspected vascular issues—should be advised to stay well-hydrated unless specifically instructed by a doctor. When you’re dehydrated, your blood becomes thicker, making it harder to circulate through the body. If you already have a narrowed or partially blocked blood vessel, dehydration adds stress to your system and significantly raises your risk of stroke.

Dr. Pavan Pai further emphasized the importance of timely diagnosis and intervention: “Stroke is a medical emergency where every second counts. Rapid imaging and treatment can mean the difference between full recovery and lifelong disability. Public awareness and preparedness are essential.”

Key Takeaways:
• Always stay adequately hydrated before routine fasting blood tests unless otherwise instructed.
• Be alert to warning signs of stroke: sudden weakness, difficulty speaking, facial droop, or loss of coordination.
• Seek immediate medical help at the first sign of neurological symptoms—timely action saves lives.
World Stroke Thrombectomy Day was established in 2021 to support Mission Thrombectomy’s campaign to bring awareness to the benefits of stroke treatment intervention, and the need for access to such treatments, specifically in low- and middle-income countries. This day is recognized each year on May 15th, but the work to secure global access happens every day.

Fermented Sweeteners Market Growth Driven by Health-Conscious Consumers

The global food and beverage industry has witnessed an accelerating shift towards health-centric ingredients and nutritional awareness among consumers. One such rising trend is the increasing demand for fermented sweeteners, which are gaining significant traction among health-conscious individuals seeking alternatives to traditional sugars. These naturally derived sweeteners are emerging as an attractive solution, offering both reduced caloric content and digestive benefits. As the emphasis on wellness and preventive healthcare rises, the fermented sweeteners market is experiencing robust growth, driven by changing lifestyles and evolving consumer preferences.

The global fermented sweeteners market was bustling with growth in the historical period assessment and growing at a rate of 6.0% between 2019 and 2024. According to Persistence Market Research, this market value increased and registered sales of US$ 1,364.4 Mn in the year 2025

Understanding Fermented Sweeteners

Fermented sweeteners are natural sugar substitutes produced through fermentation processes involving microorganisms such as yeast, bacteria, or fungi. This process breaks down sugars or carbohydrates into simpler compounds, often resulting in sweeteners that offer fewer calories and a lower glycemic index compared to refined sugar. These sweeteners include ingredients like erythritol, xylitol, monk fruit fermented extracts, and fermented stevia, which are commonly used in low-sugar and sugar-free product formulations.

Key Drivers Behind Market Growth

  • Rising Health Awareness: With increasing awareness about the adverse effects of high sugar consumption, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, consumers are actively seeking healthier alternatives. Fermented sweeteners offer a way to reduce sugar intake without compromising taste.
  • Growing Demand for Clean Label Products: Consumers are prioritizing transparency in food production, pushing companies to use clean, natural, and minimally processed ingredients. Fermented sweeteners align well with the clean label movement due to their natural derivation and simple processing methods.
  • Low Glycemic Index Benefits: Many fermented sweeteners do not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, making them ideal for diabetic consumers and those on low-carbohydrate diets. This characteristic is attracting a broad range of consumers who aim to maintain stable energy levels and overall metabolic health.
  • Rise in Functional Foods: The demand for foods that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition is growing rapidly. Fermented sweeteners often carry prebiotic or gut-friendly attributes, enhancing their appeal in functional food categories such as protein bars, yogurts, and beverages.
  • Popularity of Keto and Low-Carb Diets: Diet trends focusing on minimal carbohydrate intake, such as ketogenic and paleo diets, have driven the demand for non-glycemic and low-calorie sweeteners. Fermented sweeteners like erythritol are popular choices for such diets, contributing to their increasing market share.

Types of Fermented Sweeteners in Demand

  • Erythritol: A sugar alcohol made through the fermentation of glucose, erythritol is known for its pleasant sweetness and low caloric content. It is widely used in beverages, baked goods, and confectionery due to its stability and mild taste profile.
  • Xylitol: Derived from the fermentation

Future Generali Unveils ‘Health Unlimited’ with Limitless Benefits

Guwahati, 14th May 2025: For many of us in urban India, health insurance is the go-to solution when it comes to financial protection, but rising hospitalisation and medical costs raise questions on the adequacy of Health Insurance cover. This growing concern highlights the need for comprehensive healthcare solutions.

More than eight out of every ten insured feel unsure about the efficacy of their health cover amid soaring medical costs, said an exclusive survey by Future Generali India Insurance – #Health Unlimited. This survey, which was recently conducted on 800 insured individuals aged 25+, revealed rising concerns about the adequacy of current health insurance coverage.

India has one of the highest medical inflation rates among other Asian countries in 2021 – approximately 14 per cent – surpassing China (12 per cent), Indonesia (10 per cent), Vietnam (10 per cent) and Philippines (9 per cent).

Commenting on the launch of Health Unlimited,Anup Rau, Managing Director and CEO, Future Generali India Insurance Company Ltd, said, “Rising cost of medical treatment is a cause of concern for a vast majority of people in India, despite having a health cover. As Lifetime Partners to our customers, it is our endeavour to address these challenges by offering tailored solutions and adequately covering the Indian consumer. Our comprehensive health insurance offering, ‘Health Unlimited’, will ensure that our customers do not run out of cover even during the times of higher bills, irrespective of their sum insured getting exhausted.”

The plan revolutionises health insurance by offering Unlimited Restoration of the Sum Insured starting from the second claim, providing complete financial security without the worry of exhausting coverage. In addition to the base coverage, the plan offers protection against rising medical costs and evolving healthcare needs. It covers in-patient hospitalisation, day-care treatments, AYUSH treatments, referring to the coverage for traditional Indian systems of medicine, including Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy, under health insurance policies, pre- and post-hospitalisation expenses, organ donor costs, and modern treatment methods.

Key Benefits of “Health Unlimited”:

  • Unlimited Coverage: This benefit shall cover the full cost of claim, regardless of sum insured, once in the lifetime of the policy and for any one claim.
  • Inflation Guard: Annual enhancement of sum insured to safeguard against rising medical expenses
  • Premium Payback: Discount of renewal premium in the 5th year, equivalent to the 1st year base premium, if there is no claim in the preceding 4 policy years
  • Unlimited Refills: Base sum insured gets refilled unlimited times, from second claim onwards

In addition to the above, Health Unlimited also comes with benefits like wellness discounts, cumulative bonus for every claim free year, additional sum insured for accidental hospitalization, no sub limits for services like cataract surgery, road ambulance, and LASIK procedure and complementary health check-ups.

Dr. Smita Naram Leads Ayushakti with 2,500-Year Siddha Veda Legacy

By-Dr. Smita Naram, Co-Founder – Ayushakti

Dr. Smita Naram is the Co-Founder of Ayushakti, one of the leading and most trusted ayurvedic health centres around the world. A well-accomplished Ayurvedic physician, pharmaceutical herbalist, and nutritionist, Dr. Naram started this journey of bringing in Ancient Health Solution, with a vision to transform the health of billions of people on this planet in 1987.

She is an Ayurvedic Practitioner with qualifications of Ayurved Madhyama and Ayurved Uttama of Shravan Masa Dakshina Prakisha Samitee constituted by law in the State of Gujarat & recognized by Central Council of Indian Medicine, New Delhi, India.

She is the fifth generation of vaidya in her family tradition of Ayurvedic Practice and has been practicing the 2500 years old lineage of Siddha Veda Tradition of Ayurveda. Apart from being the world-renowned and Master pulse reader (the ancient traditional method of diagnosis) Dr. Smita Naram is also a detoxification specialist. She also shares health tips, kitchen remedies, herbal remedies, marma, and detox plans for contributing to people lives for long-lasting results in any health problems.

A true female entrepreneur with vast international clinical experience, today she is one of the most insightful practitioners, lecturers, and teachers of Ancient Health Solutions coming from the 2500 years old Siddha Veda lineage of Ayurveda. She along with her team have personally helped clients suffering from numerous chronic health disorders like Arthritis, Joint pain, Sciatica, Osteoporosis, Anxiety, Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, and many more chronic health concerns. Experiencing breakthrough results in chronic health challenges Ayushakti Clinic just grew through referrals organically. She realized that her life purpose is to transform lives of the people on this planet and that is why Ayushakti chain of clinics was born.

She has been honored worldwide with many prestigious awards for her contributions in the domain of health including THE KASHYAP AWARD from Germany. She has spent her life personally training more than 500+ doctors and practitioners across the world to create the Army of Healers. Having built a team of expert vaidyas, Dr. Smita Naram conducts practitioner training courses in ancient pulse reading across the world. Her amazing health tips for vibrant health has been telecasted through national and international television shows and has been helping hundreds of thousands of people worldwide to transform their lives.

She has also authored a book named, “Your health in your hand” and has published dozens of research papers in peer reviewed international journals from USA, Europe and UK just to prove the efficacy of ancient healing on modern parameters

Moringa Extract The Rising Superfood Revolutionizing Plant Based Supplements

Is Moringa Extract the Next Big Thing in Plant-Based Supplements?
As wellness trends continue to evolve, Moringa extract has started capturing the attention of consumers and health brands worldwide. Recognized for its exceptional nutritional profile and natural healing properties, Moringa oleifera—commonly known as the “miracle tree”—is gaining momentum in the health and wellness industry. With the Moringa Extract Market showing significant growth, many experts and brands are taking notice of its rising potential as the next superfood in plant-based supplements.
Consumer Shift Toward Nature-Derived Wellness Solutions
Today’s consumers are choosing clean, natural, and transparent health solutions. From fitness enthusiasts to health-conscious millennials, there’s a growing demand for plant-based alternatives that offer both nutrition and therapeutic benefits. Moringa extract, packed with essential vitamins, antioxidants, and amino acids, fits seamlessly into this health-focused lifestyle. According to Persistence Market Research, the expanding interest in holistic well-being is one of the leading factors propelling the growth of the Moringa Extract Market globally.
What Makes Moringa Stand Out in the Superfood Category?
Moringa extract isn’t just another supplement—it’s a complete nutrition powerhouse. It contains more vitamin C than oranges, more calcium than milk, and more potassium than bananas. Its natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, such as quercetin and chlorogenic acid, make it ideal for promoting cellular health, reducing oxidative stress, and supporting metabolism. Unlike synthetic supplements, Moringa is all-natural, non-GMO, and free from artificial additives.
The Nutraceutical Revolution: A Perfect Fit for Moringa
The global nutraceutical boom, especially after the pandemic, has opened new doors for functional and botanical ingredients. Moringa is now widely used in supplement capsules, protein powders, gummies, and wellness drinks. The Moringa Extract Market has particularly benefited from rising consumer interest in preventive healthcare, clean-label ingredients, and food-based immunity boosters. As per Persistence Market Research, growing clinical research and the rise in herbal supplement consumption are expected to drive this segment further in the coming years.
Trending Product Innovations Featuring Moringa Extract
Moringa’s versatility extends beyond just pills and powders. It’s now a key ingredient in a range of consumer goods:
  • Superfood Beverages: Detox teas, energy shots, and smoothie blends are being infused with Moringa for a nutrient kick.
  • Natural Beauty Products: Thanks to its anti-aging and anti-inflammatory benefits, Moringa extract is featured in facial serums, masks, and creams.
  • Health-Driven Foods: Bars, granola mixes, and even dairy alternatives are incorporating Moringa to appeal to vegan and health-conscious consumers.
Global Demand Patterns and Export Potential
The appeal of Moringa extract is truly global. In North America, the rising preference for vegan supplements and sustainable health products has led to increased adoption. European nations like Germany and France are also showing strong demand for ethically sourced, organic Moringa. Meanwhile, Asia-Pacific remains a production hub, with countries like India, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka leading in cultivation and exports.
With the support of local governments and trade organizations, these nations are enhancing their processing capabilities and expanding their global presence. This widespread interest is significantly boosting the visibility and valuation of the Moringa Extract Market.
Clean Label Trend Fueling Moringa Adoption
Transparency in product labels is no longer a preference—it’s a requirement. Consumers want to know what they’re putting into their bodies, and Moringa extract offers a straightforward, recognizable ingredient. It aligns with clean label, organic, and non-GMO product categories, making it a top choice for brands launching natural supplements. Moringa’s ability to serve as a single-ingredient solution in many applications enhances its appeal in minimal-ingredient wellness products.
As highlighted by Persistence Market Research, companies that promote Moringa’s traceability, sustainability, and natural origin are better positioned to succeed in this evolving health ecosystem.
Challenges That Need Addressing for Mass Adoption
Despite its impressive benefits, the Moringa extract industry faces certain challenges. Lack of global standardization in extract quality and processing methods has resulted in inconsistent product quality across markets. Additionally, while traditional medicine has long championed Moringa’s benefits, more scientific validation is necessary to convince mainstream medical professionals and regulatory bodies.
Still, these challenges are not insurmountable. Increased investment in R&D, coupled with consumer education campaigns, will likely help bridge the gap between traditional use and modern application.
What the Future Holds for Moringa Extract
As wellness trends evolve, Moringa extract is well-positioned to become a staple in dietary supplementation. New product launches—from wellness shots to adaptogenic beverages—are expected to dominate both online and retail shelves. There’s also increasing potential for Moringa in personalized nutrition platforms, especially as more consumers seek tailored health solutions.
The Moringa Extract Market is expected to diversify further with innovative offerings like vegan skincare, sports nutrition products, and even pet supplements. Regulatory acceptance and scientific backing will only add more strength to its adoption across demographics and geographies.
A Superfood with Super Potential
Moringa extract is not just a health trend—it’s a long-term solution for nutrition, immunity, and overall wellness. With its vast array of applications, sustainability benefits, and rising global popularity, it is rapidly emerging as a cornerstone in the future of plant-based nutrition.
For health brands, investors, and consumers alike, now is the time to explore the full potential of Moringa. The Moringa Extract Market is not just expanding—it’s thriving. And as Persistence Market Research suggests, the next few years may see Moringa transition from niche health stores to mainstream supermarkets and medicine cabinets across the world.

Monsoon Brings Spike in Viral Fever Cases; Expert Urges Early Diagnosis and Treatment

Kolkata: There is a rise in viral fever cases during the monsoon, particularly among people aged 10-65 years. The seasonal shift brings with it high humidity, waterlogging, and a surge in mosquito-borne infections, creating the perfect environment for viral illnesses to spread. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are essential to reduce complications such as dehydration, secondary infections, and a long recovery period. Without proper care, a viral fever can escalate into a more serious condition, especially in children, the elderly, and those having weak immunity.

Viral fever is caused by viral infections. These viruses can spread through air (cough, sneeze), contaminated water, food, or mosquito bites. Common viruses include the flu virus, dengue, chikungunya, and adenovirus. The symptoms are high temperature (often above 100°F), headache and body aches, chills and sweating, fatigue and weakness, sore throat or cough, and poor appetite. If not treated properly, viral fever can lead to dehydration, organ stress, or complications like dengue hemorrhagic fever or pneumonia in some cases.

Dr Abhik Banerjee, Zonal Technical Chief, East Zone Apollo Diagnostic, Kolkata Said, We are seeing a sharp increase in viral fever cases during this monsoon. Early diagnosis is the key to preventing complications. In most cases, a basic physical check-up, along with blood tests, helps confirm the infection type. Diagnosing viral fever usually starts with a physical examination and reviewing symptoms like fever, body aches, and fatigue. Doctors may recommend blood tests such as a complete blood count (CBC) to check for signs of infection.   Dengue NS1, IgM, and Respiratory viral panel tests by PCR can be recommended. Diagnosis help confirm if it’s a viral infection and avoid unnecessary use of antibiotics. Early and accurate diagnosis is key to guiding the right treatment.”

Dr Banerjee added, “Identifying the virus early helps in dealing with the symptoms better and avoiding unmonitored usage of antibiotics. Most viral fevers do not need antibiotics. Treatment includes plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and using fever-reducing medicines. Some may need hospitalization in extreme cases. Avoid eating street food or drinking contaminated water, keep your surroundings clean and dry, use mosquito repellents and nets, wash hands regularly, and consult the doctor if the fever persists for over a day.  Viral fevers are a common occurrence in monsoon, but with hygiene and timely help, they can be managed safely and effectively.

MedLern and Laerdal Advance Clinical Skills Training at Cytecare Hospitals

New Delhi, May 14, 2025: MedLern, the leader in Hospital Training in India, unveiled the next innovation with the successful launch of the Modular Skills Trainer, an innovative 16-in-1 clinical skills training solution developed by Laerdal Medical, at a special event hosted at Cytecare Hospitals, Bangalore. The versatile kit enables single or multiple learners to practice and master critical nursing procedures like nasogastric tube insertion, wound care, tracheostomy care, catheterization, injections, and more, essential for real clinical environments. The dual mode learning approach enables a sound knowledge of the theoretical aspects before assessing psychomotor skills through an Objective Structured Clinical Evaluation.

Mr. Suresh Ramu, Co-founder & CEO, Cytecare Hospitals said of the development “This marks a proud milestone in our continuous journey to strengthen healthcare delivery. In today’s world, where mobile connectivity defines how we access and process information, the ability to learn and adapt in real time has become more critical than simply retaining knowledge. Practical skills training, especially in nursing and clinical care, is indispensable because while digital platforms enable access, the physical nature of care cannot be overlooked. With this step towards building a blended skills lab that is both digital and hands-on, we are laying the foundation for a more prepared and capable healthcare workforce. I extend my sincere thanks to the leadership, nursing teams, paramedics, and technical staff at Cytecare for embracing this initiative and driving us all towards better care delivery.”

Mr. Sameer Shariff, Executive Chairman of MedLern said “Nursing is the backbone of healthcare, and at MedLern, we are committed to empowering medical professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to deliver better care. MedLern was born from a personal tragedy when we lost a young engineer, Denny Sunny, to a preventable medical error. That moment became a driving force behind our mission: better preparedness to deliver better care. Today, MedLern supports over 125,000 professionals across 350 hospitals. We are proud to partner with Cytecare, who are not only embracing technology but leading the way with initiatives like the MST program. Together, we aim to drive a culture of continuous learning and care excellence across the healthcare ecosystem.”

Mr. Sanjeev Singh – CEO of Laerdal Medical India, a global leader in healthcare education and resuscitation training, dedicated to advancing patient safety and saving lives, added, “Combining hands-on clinical skills practice with virtual simulation and digital assessment tools provide instructors with a more competency-based approach for improving learning outcomes. Students are better prepared to exercise clinical judgment, decision making and communication, before applying this collective learning in high fidelity simulation with realistic, patient simulators such as the Nursing Anne Simulator.”

The Modular Skills Trainer requires no electrical connectivity or additional hardware, allowing learners to begin hands-on practice immediately upon receipt. Constructed from lightweight recycled materials, the device is easy to transport, clean, and store, making it ideal for both classroom and remote training settings.

The Modular Skills Trainer launch at Cytecare Hospitals represents a milestone in healthcare training in India, reinforcing MedLern’s leadership in delivering a full stack, innovative, competency-based training solutions to hospitals nationwide.

Is it in our genes? Understanding the Hidden Role of Genetics in Brain Tumours.

Dr. Chirag Panchal, Consultant- Neuro Onco Surgery, HCG Aastha Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad

By Dr. Chirag Panchal, Consultant- Neuro Onco Surgery, HCG Aastha Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad

The brain is frequently referred to as the human body’s command centre—a delicate, amazing organ that regulates everything from memory and movement to emotion and creativity.   When a serious illness, such as a brain tumour, affects this powerful system, it is more than a medical diagnosis.   It disrupts the very core of who the individual is.

Brain tumours were once regarded as random and unexplained events. However, as medical study advances, we are discovering that the causes of many brain tumours go considerably deeper, right down to our DNA.   Genetics, formerly reserved for textbooks and labs, is now critical to our knowledge of tumours, our diagnostic capabilities, and to the treatment of brain tumours.

Why should we refer to a Tumour as “Genetic”?

In clarification, not all brain tumours are inherited, or passed down through families.  The majority are not.  However, whether hereditary or not, all cancers begin with changes in the genetic composition of our cells.   Such mutations trigger tiny alterations in our DNA that impede normal cell function and result in uncontrolled growth.

Some mutations are present at birth, while others develop over time, as a result of environmental factors, lifestyle choices, or simply the natural wear and tear of aging.   In certain people, a combination of these factors creates an ideal environment for a brain tumour to grow.

In essence, genetics is about how our cells adapt and respond over time, as well as about what we inherit.

Why Genetics Matters More Than Ever

Understanding the genetics of a brain tumour is no longer only a scientific interest.It has become one of the most powerful tools in modern neuro-oncology.

When a patient is diagnosed with a brain tumour today, clinicians can consider more than just the size and location. They may look at its genetic fingerprint, which is a blueprint that predicts how the cancer will behave, how aggressive it will be, and which treatments will be most effective.

This shift has revolutionized care.  What was once a one-size-fits-all approach is being replaced by personalized medicine, which dictates treatment techniques based on the genetic characteristics of each individual tumour.

Inherited risk versus acquired Mutations.

It is crucial to differentiate between hereditary risk and acquired mutations.  Some people are born with DNA mutations that increase their likelihood of developing tumours; and these mutations could be the result of a well-known genetic disorder. While rare, they cases highlight the significance of increasing awareness, especially in families where brain tumours have appeared multiple times.

Typically, genetic changes occur across a person’s lifetime.   These are acquired rather than inherited, and can be triggered by a number of biological, lifestyle, and environmental variables.

This means that even people with no family history of brain tumours can develop them, and their tumours may contain genetic changes that affect how they respond to treatment.

The Promise of Precision Medicine

In recent years, the medical profession has adopted a more refined, targeted approach to treating cancers, including those in the brain. Precision medicine is a genetically determined approach.

Analyzing a tumour’s genetic structure enables doctors to predict its growth and spread, target specific mutations, avoid ineffective treatments, and track the tumour throughout.

Major hospitals are already incorporating molecular profiling into their cancer care routines, providing patients with previously unattainable insights.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Brain Tumour Care

Genetics will become more relevant as time passes.   Every day, new discoveries are being made about the origin of brain tumours, why they resist treatment, and how they can be prevented.   Gene editing technologies, personalized immunizations, and even drugs that “switch off” harmful genes are also being researched.

For patients, this means new hope.   It implies that access to better, more tailored treatment is no longer a pipe dream; it has become a reality. However, the future is dependent on perceptiveness. It will bank on asking the right questions, encouraging open communication, and debunking myths about genetic testing.

Brain tumours are among the most challenging medical illnesses to treat, but genetics is helping to change the script. What was once unpredictable and overwhelming is now something we can understand, manage, and treat more precisely.