Category health

New Delhi, Apr 24 (BNP): The government has taken steps to further strengthen the quality assurance framework for medicines sold through Jan Aushadhi Kendras across the country by signing new Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with key agencies involved in the scheme.

The initiative aims to ensure that medicines available under the affordable healthcare programme continue to meet strict safety and quality standards. The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana provides low-cost generic medicines through a wide network of retail outlets, helping reduce healthcare expenses for millions of citizens.

Officials said the latest MoUs will enhance monitoring systems, strengthen coordination between implementing bodies, and improve quality testing processes for medicines supplied to Jan Aushadhi stores. The focus is on making the supply chain more robust and transparent.

At present, medicines under the scheme are sourced only from certified manufacturers and undergo quality checks before being distributed. The new arrangements are expected to further tighten these procedures and ensure greater consistency in standards across all outlets.

The government has been expanding the Jan Aushadhi network in recent years to improve access to affordable healthcare, particularly in rural and underserved regions.

Officials added that strengthening quality assurance will help boost public confidence in generic medicines and support the broader goal of making essential drugs more accessible and affordable across the country.

HOUSTON (April 23, 2026) – Dr. Damian Young, investigator at Texas Children’s Duncan Neurological Research Institute (Duncan NRI) and director of the Center for Drug Discovery at Baylor College of Medicine, along with collaborators, has been awarded a $6.7 million grant from the National Institute on Aging (NIA), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), to develop new approaches to rapidly identify potential treatments for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias with the goal of accelerating the discovery of new therapies. 

While Alzheimer’s is often associated with aging, researchers at Texas Children’s are uniquely positioned to study it. By examining how the brain develops and functions early in life, scientists can better understand how those same systems break down over time—revealing new opportunities to prevent and treat neurodegenerative disease.

This five-year project brings together experts in chemistry, artificial intelligence and translational science to tackle one of the most complex challenges in Alzheimer’s research—quickly identifying therapies that are both safe and effective.

“This grant will enable the most expansive screening effort to date for compounds targeting Alzheimer’s disease,” Dr. Young said. “By integrating cutting-edge biological insights from Alzheimer’s disease research worldwide with a highly innovative chemistry and machine learning platform, we aim to unlock new opportunities for discovery. This work will represent the first critical step toward developing transformative therapies for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.”

Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias affect millions of people worldwide, yet developing new treatments remains a slow and complex process. One of the biggest challenges is identifying which molecules can successfully target the biological drivers of disease and reach the brain in a safe and effective way.

To address this, Dr. Young’s team will use DNA-encoded chemical libraries, a technology that allows researchers to screen hundreds of millions of potential drug compounds at once. Each compound carries a unique DNA “barcode,” enabling scientists to quickly identify which molecules interact with proteins linked to Alzheimer’s.

The team will then use artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze the data and predict which compounds are most likely to succeed—significantly reducing the time from early discovery to viable drug candidates. Ultimately, this approach is designed to shorten the timeline for identifying new treatments—bringing potential therapies to patients faster and with greater precision.

The project will move through multiple phases, starting with large-scale screening and advancing to refining the most promising compounds to improve their strength, safety and ability to reach the brain. Researchers will also explore whether existing drugs can be repurposed, potentially accelerating the path to clinical testing.

A key component of the project is its open science approach. Data and compounds generated—including results from screening more than 900 million unique compounds—will be shared publicly, enabling researchers worldwide to build on the findings and advance new treatments. An internal advisory board of Texas Children’s and Baylor faculty consisting of Drs. Huda Zoghbi, Joshua Shulman, Hugo Bellen, and Juan Botas will provide critical expertise in prioritizing protein targets most strongly implicated in Alzheimer’s disease.

The work will be supported in part through collaboration with the Structural Genomics Consortium, which will provide critical protein targets needed for the research.

This research reflects Texas Children’s commitment to solving the unsolvable by advancing innovative, collaborative approaches to complex neurological diseases. Insights gained from pediatric research often inform adult treatments, and discoveries in adult disease can in turn accelerate breakthroughs in children’s health. By bridging these areas, researchers at the Duncan NRI are helping drive progress across the full spectrum of neurological disease, with the goal of improving outcomes for patients of all ages. For patients and families affected by Alzheimer’s and related dementias, this work represents a critical step toward earlier detection, more effective treatments and ultimately, prevention.

When Alin Sherin Abraham’s parents met eight-month-old Dhriya, the recipient of Alin’s liver, for the first time.

Thiruvananthapuram, Apr 23: In a tribute to the life-saving act of organ donation, KIMSHEALTH, organised a special gathering of organ donors and children who underwent liver transplant. The event also witnessed  a deeply emotional moment, as the family of the ten month old donor Alin Sherin Abraham, met Dhriya, the eight month old who received Alin’s liver, for the first time. More than 100 people participated in this special gathering. 

Dr. M I Sahadulla, Chairman and Managing Director of KIMSHEALTH, said that organ is the noblest message of love and sacrifice. He emphasized that it not only conveys a powerful message to society, but also plays a vital role in raising awareness about this crucial cause. Dr.Sahadulla, also lauded the tireless efforts of government systems, doctors in the liver transplant department, and other staff members.

Dr.Nobel Gracious, Executive Director, K-SOTTO said that the cooperation of organ donors’ families in Kerala, government systems including the police, public, media and above all, the untiring efforts of the doctors and the medical team performing the transplants is a great model to follow. Being an organ donor is a generous and worthwhile decision that can be a lifesaver, he added.

Dr. P K Jabbar, Principal, Government Medical College Thiruvananthapuram; Dr. Ragi Krishnan, South Zone Nodal Officer K-SOTTO; Dr. Basil, Joint Director, K-SOTTO; Dr. Praveen Muralidharan, Director, Multi Organ Transplant, KIMSHEALTH; Liver Transplant surgeons Dr. Shiraz Ahmad Rather, Dr. Shabeerali T U, and Pediatric Hepatologist Dr. Anu K Vasu where also part of the program.

KIMSHEALTH performed its first liver transplant on July 23, 2013. Since then, nearly 250 liver transplant surgeries have been successfully completed. The hospital has also achieved several significant milestones, including Kerala’s first combined liver and kidney transplant, the state’s first split liver transplant, the successful liver transplant on a lowest weighing baby.

Apr 22 (BNP): The Indian life insurance sector has recorded a landmark achievement by collecting approximately ₹4 trillion in new business premiums in FY26, marking the highest-ever annual figure for the industry.

This milestone reflects strong consumer demand for life insurance products, increased financial awareness, and wider adoption across diverse market segments. Growth has been supported by digital transformation, improved accessibility, and expansion into emerging regions.

The industry’s performance highlights a growing focus on financial protection and long-term savings among Indian households. Insurers have also benefited from enhanced distribution capabilities and evolving product offerings tailored to customer needs.

The achievement underscores the sector’s steady expansion and its critical role in strengthening India’s financial security ecosystem.

Jaipur, Apr 20 (BNP): A recent clinical assessment conducted at a leading government hospital in Rajasthan has brought renewed attention to the growing impact of prolonged screen exposure on children’s physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being. The findings indicate a clear association between higher daily screen use and disturbances in attention, sleep patterns, and behavioural balance among school-going children.

 The study evaluated 150 children in the age group of 10 to 16 years using behavioural observations, structured interactions, and parental feedback. It reflects an emerging lifestyle trend where digital devices are increasingly central to both learning and leisure, often without structured limits.

According to the study

According to the study, nearly 72% of children reported spending between three and six hours daily on mobile phones. Researchers observed that this level of screen engagement is frequently accompanied by reduced concentration, irregular sleep cycles, and diminished participation in offline activities.

Children with higher screen exposure were more likely to show difficulty in sustaining attention during academic tasks, increased irritability, and a tendency to withdraw from face-to-face social interaction. A preference for digital engagement over physical or outdoor activities was also commonly noted.

Cognitive and behavioural impact

The findings suggest that prolonged and unregulated screen use may overstimulate developing cognitive systems, affecting a child’s ability to focus for extended periods. Exposure to fast-paced and constantly changing digital content can gradually reduce patience levels and weaken attention control, particularly in academic environments.

Behavioural observations also indicated subtle emotional changes, including increased reliance on digital devices for comfort and reduced engagement with family members and peers. Over time, this pattern may influence social development and emotional responsiveness.

Sleep disruption emerging as a key concern

One of the most consistent observations in the study relates to sleep disturbance. Excessive screen use, especially during evening hours, was linked to delayed sleep onset and reduced overall sleep quality. This disruption in sleep patterns can have wider implications on memory consolidation, mood stability, and daytime alertness.

A shifting childhood environment

The study highlights a broader transformation in childhood experiences, where digital interaction is replacing traditional forms of play and communication. While technology continues to offer educational benefits, the findings underline the need to understand its behavioural and developmental impact when used without boundaries.

The importance of balanced digital habits

Experts associated with the assessment emphasise that complete avoidance of digital devices is neither practical nor necessary. Instead, the focus should be on structured and age-appropriate screen-time management.

Recommended measures include limiting recreational screen use, encouraging outdoor physical activity, promoting family interaction, and maintaining device-free time before sleep. These steps are seen as essential in restoring balance between digital engagement and real-world experiences.

A growing developmental concern

The findings point toward an emerging public health and developmental concern, as screen dependency becomes increasingly common among children. While digital tools remain integral to modern life, the study underscores the importance of moderation to ensure healthy cognitive growth, emotional stability, and social development.

In an increasingly digital world, the challenge lies not in removing screens from childhood—but in ensuring they do not define it.

International SOS Launches Psychological Support Sessions to Strengthen Employee Resilience Amid Ongoing Middle East Conflict

April 18: International SOS, the world’s leading medical and security risk mitigation services company, announced the launch of Psychological Support Sessions, a structured, expert-led wellbeing programme designed to help organisations across India and the region provide meaningful, immediate, and scalable psychological support to employees impacted by the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Since the escalation of conflict, International SOS has been providing 24/7 on-the-ground support across the region, managing over 4,540 cases, supporting more than 1,390 client organisations, and coordinating the evacuation of over 1,370 people by land and air. Through regular security briefing webinars and continuous alerts, International SOS has kept organisations informed and operationally prepared throughout the crisis.

What this sustained response has made clear is that operational readiness, while essential, is only part of the picture. Organisations across India many with significant workforce exposure across the Middle East are confronting a parallel and equally urgent challenge: the psychological toll of prolonged conflict on employees who may never set foot in a conflict zone yet carry the weight of uncertainty, anxiety, and disrupted focus every day.

Psychological Support Sessions is International SOS’s direct response to this need, extending its crisis support model from the physical to the psychological, and enabling organisations to fulfil their Duty of Care in full.

“Organizations across India and the region are grappling with a reality that no wellness policy alone can address: their people are carrying the weight of sustained crisis – as employees, as parents, as human beings. Psychological Support Sessions exist to meet that need with clinical rigor and practical immediacy. This is not an add-on to Duty of Care; it is Duty of Care in action.” Jérôme Le Jehan, Managing Director Consulting International, International SOS

Programme Overview

Psychological Support Sessions is delivered over six weeks, comprising six 30-minute expert-led sessions clinically designed and facilitated by qualified psychologists with direct experience in crisis environments. Sessions are recorded for ongoing access, making them practical for employees across time zones, seniority levels, and roles.

Core topics covered include:

•Regaining a sense of control in uncontrollable situations

•Managing information overload and constant news exposure

•Sleep disruption and recovery strategies

•Supporting parents, caregivers, and vulnerable family members

•Coping with prolonged uncertainty

•Managing the ‘double load’ of personal impact while supporting others

Designed for Organizations That Need:

•Practical wellbeing support for employees living in, deployed to, or psychologically impacted by the Middle East conflict

•A visible, proactive expression of Duty of Care that extends beyond operational security

•Structured support for employees, their families, and caregivers

•A credible, expert-led alternative to ad hoc wellbeing communications

•Guidance on managing stress, uncertainty, sleep disruption, and information overload at scale

 

Most oncologists say they would prescribe hormone therapy to cervical cancer patients who experience early menopause from radiation treatment, but barriers are keeping many from doing so in practice, according to a new University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center study published in JAMA Network Open.

Premenopausal patients treated for cervical cancer with chemoradiotherapy, a combination of chemotherapy and radiation given at the same time, often experience menopause as a side effect of radiation to the ovaries, bringing on symptoms like hot flashes, sleep disruption and vaginal dryness. Clinical guidelines support the use of hormonal therapy to manage menopausal symptoms in this group, but research has shown the treatment remains underused.

The study, led by Markey Cancer Center radiation oncologist Denise Fabian, M.D., with Morgan Levy, M.D., as first author, identifies barriers to prescribing that can inform efforts to improve patient care.

The research team surveyed 178 gynecologic and radiation oncology clinicians nationally through the Society for Gynecologic Oncology and the American Brachytherapy Society about their attitudes and prescribing habits around hormonal therapy for patients with cervical cancer treated with chemotherapy and radiation.

The survey found that 99.3% of gynecologic oncologists and 73.8% of radiation oncologists said they would consider prescribing hormonal therapy after chemoradiotherapy. Despite that willingness, both groups reported barriers: the capacity to manage patients’ care over the long term and a lack of awareness of existing clinical guidelines.

“This study highlights a critical opportunity to strengthen survivorship care for cervical cancer patients, both in Kentucky and nationwide,” said Fabian. “Hormone therapy can meaningfully improve not only quality of life, but also long-term health. We need to ensure more patients can access it.”

“This work has shown us that oncologists are interested in prescribing hormonal therapy to improve quality of life for our patients,” Levy said. “We are excited to continue working with our multidisciplinary team in survivorship and gynecologic oncology to design interventions to improve the standard of care.”

The researchers say future work will focus on increasing guideline awareness and finding ways to make prescribing more manageable for clinicians, with the goal of getting more patients access to care that evidence shows is safe and effective.

New Delhi, April 17 (BNP): Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, on Wednesday inaugurated the two-day “Ayush Chintan Shivir 2026” in the national capital.

The event, which concludes on April 17, is aimed at reviewing progress, strengthening policy direction, and charting a future roadmap for the Ayush sector, officials said.

Addressing the gathering, Jadhav said the Chintan Shivir reflects the government’s commitment to reinforcing policy implementation and institutional capacity in Ayush. He noted that the platform would help assess achievements since the previous conclave and identify gaps for future action. He also underlined the growing role of Ayush in addressing lifestyle diseases through a holistic approach.

Highlighting the government’s focus, the minister pointed to increased budget allocations for education, research, infrastructure, and global outreach. He stressed the need for evidence-based research, innovation, digitalisation, and greater public awareness, expressing confidence that Ayush will play a key role in achieving the “Viksit Bharat 2047” vision.

Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, described the Shivir as an important platform for policy review and long-term planning, adding that efforts are underway to integrate traditional knowledge with modern science and expand global collaboration.

Joint Secretary Alarmelmangai D. said the initiative promotes collaborative policymaking and noted the rising national and international recognition of Ayush systems.

A key highlight of the inaugural session was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) and the General Insurance Council to expand insurance coverage and streamline claim settlements for Ayush treatments.

The minister also launched the Ministry’s official WhatsApp channel to enhance citizen engagement and released a document on revised benchmark rates for insurance coverage of Ayush therapies. A toll-free helpline (1800-11-0008) for Ayush insurance was also introduced.

The first day featured three thematic sessions focusing on review of earlier outcomes, strengthening research and global partnerships, and improving legal preparedness in the sector, officials added.

Accelerating adoption signals a market-wide shift toward employer and consumer-driven, bundled healthcare

Philadelphia, PA — (April 16, 2026) — Tendo, a healthcare technology company committed to putting quality at the center of every care decision, today announced that its Tendo Marketplace has surpassed one million vouchers purchased nationwide, a major milestone in delivering more accessible, high-quality, and price-transparent care.

The Tendo Marketplace serves the needs of individual consumers, navigators, employers, and healthcare providers by bringing together trusted provider networks, quality insights, procedure bundling, claims management, and transparent, all-inclusive pricing into a single shoppable care experience. 

Through Tendo Marketplace, consumers, employees, and navigators can search for procedures, compare provider quality, view upfront bundled pricing, and secure care through a simple voucher purchase, eliminating surprise billing and reducing friction at every step of the care journey. Healthcare providers can create and list bundled procedures, analyze and set procedure pricing, and manage claims and payment processes without the challenges typically associated with things like pre-authorizations, claims denials, and payments to ancillary providers. 

“One million vouchers purchased tells us something fundamental is changing,” said Jennifer Goldsmith, CEO and Co-founder of Tendo. “Employers are taking ownership of how their dollars are spent, demanding quality care at a transparent and predictable cost. Consumers are making care decisions the same way they make every other major purchase – with information, intention, and choice. And providers are freed from the administrative burden of pre-authorizations and claim denials, receiving timely, predictable payment for the quality care they deliver. That’s a structural shift, and it’s only accelerating.”

Patients across the country are already seeing the impact. Testimonials highlight both financial relief and improved access to care, with one user sharing, “It was a life-changing moment… the voucher program helped my family tremendously,” another noting savings of more than 50% on an MRI through the marketplace, and another patient describing: “This is the future of medicine in the U.S., I was able to get long-overdue testing without insurance. It was easy to set up. I’ve been telling all my newly uninsured friends about it—this is the wave of the future.”

The shift toward employer-driven and consumer-led healthcare is accelerating, and the demand for solutions that deliver quality, affordability, and transparency has never been greater. Recognition on TIME’s 2025 World’s Top HealthTech Companies list underscores Tendo’s position at the forefront of that transformation — redefining how care is discovered, evaluated, and accessed. With the Tendo Marketplace, the company is delivering on a simple but powerful promise: every healthcare decision is informed by cost and quality, without compromise.