Category health

Dec 24:- Heritage Hospitals, one of India’s most trusted names in healthcare, continues to make advanced and ethical medical services more accessible across National Capital Region. At the centre of this effort, the Noida facility of Heritage has been offering a range of key specialties and serving patients from different parts of the city.

Steadily growing over the years, Heritage is shaped by trust, openness and a genuine sense of care for every individual who walks in. For the hospital, its growth has never been a matter of numbers. It is about reaching more people while staying true to its sense of responsibility.

Each hospital is planned to offer complete medical services close to where families live, so patients no longer have to travel far for quality treatment. The Noida centre, for instance, brings together key specialties including cardiology, pulmonology, urology, and neurosurgery under one roof, ensuring that every stage of care, from consultation to recovery, remains seamless.

Dr. Richa Rai, CEO of Heritage Hospitals said, “We believe that people should never have to compromise between accessibility and integrity in healthcare and that accessibility in healthcare is about more than geography. It’s about building a system the people can rely on and where patients feel informed, respected and cared for at every step. Our focus has always been on creating that trust, one interaction at a time.”

Over the years, Heritage has earned patient confidence through consistent medical outcomes, ethical practice, and open communication. Ethical care is provided through transparent treatment protocols and the clear communication around procedures and costs. The hospital follows a disciplined approach to clinical decision-making. It ensures that medical advice is guided solely by patient requirements and long-term well-being.

Doctors and staff at Heritage Hospitals follow a patient-first approach. They spend time getting to know each patient and their medical history. They also ask about daily habits and the worries that often come with illness. This helps doctors see the full picture and decide on a plan of care for one particular patient.

The treatment they suggest is practical, personal and focused on what works best for each individual depending on their history. To make care more accessible, the hospital has also strengthened digital coordination and follow-up support for patients.

These steps are especially useful for those who need monitoring after discharge or regular consultations with specialists. The system helps patients stay in touch with their doctors even after they leave the hospital.

Heritage Hospitals opened its first multi-specialty hospital in Varanasi in 1994 and has continued to focus on honest and value-based healthcare ever since. Its growing presence in NCR reflects the same commitment to ethical and dependable medical care, built on the simple belief that trust is the foundation of good medicine.

By:- Sunil Kumar Prabhu, Consultant dermatologist and Aesthetic physician,  Aster RV Hospital, Bangalore.

Blackheads on the nose are something almost everyone deals with, and when they start increasing, it can feel frustrating and even embarrassing. The nose has more oil glands than most other parts of the face, which is why it becomes a hotspot for blackheads. Even if you wash your face regularly, they can still appear because blackheads are not just about dirt  they’re caused by what’s happening inside your pores. Understanding why they happen and how to manage them can make a big difference in keeping your skin clear and smooth.

Blackheads form when the pores get clogged with excess oil  dead skin cells and sometimes bacteria. When this mixture sits at the surface of the skin and gets exposed to air, it oxidises and turns black. This is why blackheads look like tiny dark dots on the nose. One of the biggest reasons they increase is overactive oil glands. Many people naturally have oily or combination skin, which makes the nose greasier than the rest of the face. During winters, heaters, hot showers and dry air can also make the skin produce more oil to compensate for dryness, leading to more congestion and blackheads.

Another common cause is not exfoliating enough. Washing your face removes dirt and sweat, but it doesn’t get rid of dead skin cells. When these dead cells build up, they mix with oil and block the pores. This is why people who don’t exfoliate regularly often notice more blackheads on the nose. 

Using makeup or skincare products that are too heavy or comedogenic is another reason blackheads increase. Many moisturisers, sunscreens or foundations sit inside the pores like a plug, especially on the nose. If they aren’t removed properly at night, they can lead to a buildup. Hormonal changes, especially during teenage years, periods, stress or even certain medications, can also trigger more oil production, making blackheads worse.

The good news is there are simple, effective ways to reduce blackheads and prevent them from coming back. The most important step is cleansing twice a day with a gentle cleanser. This helps remove surface oil without stripping the skin. Exfoliating two to three times a week is also crucial. Products with salicylic acid work very well because this ingredient goes deep into the pores, dissolves oil, and cleans out buildup. For stubborn blackheads, a clay mask once or twice a week can help absorb extra oil from the pores and tighten them.

Using non-comedogenic  products is another must. Choosing lightweight gels over thick creams can reduce congestion on the nose. Always remove makeup thoroughly at the end of the day. Retinol or retinoid creams can also help because they speed up cell turnover and prevent dead skin from blocking pores.  For people who want quicker results, blackhead extraction by a professional is a safe option. Chemical peels and microdermabrasion can also help improve the texture of the nose and reduce clogged pores.

It also helps to pay attention to everyday habits that may be unknowingly making blackheads worse. Touching your nose frequently transfers oil, sweat and bacteria from your hands to your pores, increasing congestion. Even things like not changing pillowcases regularly, wearing masks for long hours, or letting sweat sit on your skin after a workout can contribute to blocked pores on the nose. Small changes like washing your pillowcases weekly, wiping your face gently after exercising, and keeping your hands away from your face can make a noticeable difference.

Ultimately, the best way to control blackheads is consistency. With a simple routine that includes proper cleansing, gentle exfoliation, the right products and a little patience, blackheads on the nose can be reduced significantly. Keeping the pores clean and avoiding heavy skincare will help your nose stay clearer, smoother and visibly brighter over time.

Manesar,  Dec 23:- Fortis Hospital, Manesar has unveiled Manesar’s first da Vinci Xi robotic surgical system, marking a major milestone in southern Haryana’s access to advanced, minimally invasive surgery. The launch positions Fortis Manesar among a select group of hospitals in India offering next-generation robotic surgery for complex procedures across Oncology, Urology, Gynaecology and General Surgery.

The state-of-the-art da Vinci Xi system was unveiled in the presence of senior Fortis leadership, clinicians, and key community stakeholders. With this installation, patients across Manesar and neighbouring districts will no longer need to travel to metro centres for advanced robotic procedures.

The da Vinci Xi platform offers surgeons high-definition 3D visualisation, wristed instruments with 540-degree articulation, tremor filtration, and unmatched precision, enabling complex surgeries to be performed through tiny incisions while preserving healthy tissue. This translates into less blood loss, fewer complications, reduced pain, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays for patients.

Highlighting the clinical impact of robotic surgery, doctors at Fortis Manesar recently treated a 23-year-old woman diagnosed with cancer of the lower intestine, who feared a permanent colostomy. After medical therapy and radiation successfully reduced the tumour size, surgeons used the da Vinci Xi system to precisely remove the cancer while preserving the natural bowel passage. A temporary stoma was closed within four weeks, and the patient has now regained normal bowel function, a life-changing outcome made possible through robotic precision.

Dr Vinay Samuel Gaikwad, Director  Surgical Oncology, Fortis Hospital Manesar, said;

“Robotic surgery is transforming the way we manage complex cancers. The da Vinci Xi allows us to operate with exceptional accuracy, particularly in confined anatomical spaces, while protecting vital structures. This technology is a game-changer for cancer patients in this region, offering better tumour clearance, faster recovery and improved long-term outcomes.”

Dr Ruchir Maheshwari, Director  Urology & Renal Transplant, Fortis Hospital Manesar, added;

“Robot-assisted surgery is now the global standard for many urological procedures. With the da Vinci Xi available in Manesar, patients can access world-class care closer to home. The enhanced dexterity and 3D vision significantly reduce blood loss and improve surgical outcomes.”

Dr Nisha Aggarwal, Director  Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Fortis Hospital Manesar, said;

“For women undergoing surgery for fibroids, endometriosis or gynaecological cancers, robotic surgery offers safer, more refined treatment with faster recovery and minimal discomfort. As lifestyle-related gynaecological conditions rise, this technology enables us to deliver precision care while preserving quality of life.”

Dr Rakesh Kumar, Additional Director General Surgery, Fortis Hospital Manesar, noted;

“Robotic-assisted surgery provides unparalleled control during complex abdominal procedures. The da Vinci Xi represents a significant leap forward in surgical excellence for the region.”

Abhijit Singh, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital Manesar, said;

“The introduction of the da Vinci Xi reflects Fortis’ commitment to bringing advanced healthcare technology to emerging growth corridors like Manesar. Beyond patient care, this platform will also support surgeon training and capability-building, strengthening the region’s healthcare ecosystem.”

Fortis Healthcare is among India’s largest robotic surgery providers, having performed over 10,000 robotic procedures across its network. With 15 robotic systems currently operational, including da Vinci Xi and X platforms, Fortis has built a robust, multi-specialty robotics ecosystem that combines clinical excellence, surgeon training, and rare, high-risk procedures.

With the launch of the da Vinci Xi at Fortis Manesar, robotic surgery, once limited to major metros,  is now accessible to patients in Southern Haryana. The milestone reinforces Fortis’ vision of democratising advanced surgical care, ensuring patients benefit from safer surgeries, faster recovery and better long-term outcomes, closer to home.

Mumbai, Dec 23-  Reaffirming its commitment to corporate social responsibility and inclusive community development, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road conducted its annual ‘Be a Santa’ initiative during Christmas 2025. The initiative was aimed at supporting underprivileged children and senior citizens while reinforcing the organisation’s philosophy of care that extends beyond clinical services.

As part of the initiative, teams from Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road reached out to Ankur Children’s Home  a home for the street and slum children, distributing snacks to approx. 30 children. The celebrations were designed to promote dignity, warmth, and emotional well-being, creating meaningful festive experiences for vulnerable communities.

The ‘Be a Santa’ initiative was implemented across Wockhardt Hospitals’ units in Mumbai Central, Mira Road, Nagpur, and Rajkot, ensuring wide-reaching community engagement and consistent CSR participation across regions. At each location, hospital teams actively participated in festive activities including cake cutting, interactive games, prayers, and community interactions, fostering a spirit of togetherness and compassion. In addition, the outreach programs also included basic health awareness sessions such as hand hygiene workshops and simple physiotherapy exercise training, aimed at promoting preventive healthcare and overall well-being among beneficiaries.

Commenting on the initiative, Ms. Zahabiya Khorakiwala, Managing Director, Wockhardt Hospitals, said;

 “Corporate social responsibility at Wockhardt Hospitals is deeply rooted in compassion and long-term community engagement. Through our ‘Be a Santa’ initiative, we aim to extend care, respect, and joy to those who need it most, reinforcing our belief that healthcare organisations must play a meaningful role in building inclusive communities.”

Adding to this, Dr. Sushil Kumar, Centre Head, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, said;

 “By engaging with communities across multiple locations during the festive season, we continue to strengthen our commitment to social responsibility and make a positive difference beyond hospital walls.”

Through initiatives such as ‘Be a Santa’, Wockhardt Hospitals continues to embed social responsibility into its organisational ethos, strengthening community trust and contributing to long-term social well-being.

New Delhi, Dec 22: – Clove Dental, Asia’s largest dental chain, extended its support to the Everest Expedition of Resilience, a women-led journey to Everest Base Camp featuring Gina Atkinson, along with Carly Jennifer Hudson, Michelle O’Dwyer, Thea Davies, and expedition lead Leela Bassi.

The expedition was much more than the physical challenge of reaching Base Camp. For the team, the journey stood as a profound reflection of emotional endurance, healing, and rediscovery. Each step through the Himalayas symbolised resilience forged through grief, burnout, trauma, hope, and the determination to rise despite personal battles.

Commenting on this, Sumit Saxena, Vice President, Marketing and PR, Clove Dental, said;

“When we first learned about the expedition led by Leela Bassi and her team, we immediately recognised the depth of purpose behind their journey. Their resilience, courage, and emotional strength reflected the very values we champion at Clove Dental, restoring confidence, supporting healing, and standing beside individuals in their moments of vulnerability.”

“At Clove Dental, our vision has always revolved around dignity, confidence, and compassionate care. When Leela and her team embarked on this mission, we saw a reflection of the same courage and resilience that our women-led workforce demonstrates every day. To support this expedition was to stand with every woman who chooses healing, strength, and purpose in the face of adversity. Their journey to Everest Base Camp captured the essence of what we believe health truly means: the courage to keep going, even when the path is uncertain. We are proud to have been a part of this extraordinary mission,” said Amarinder Singh, CEO, Clove Dental.

Clove Dental’s involvement aligned with its mission to uphold dignity, confidence, and holistic well-being. With nearly 75% of its workforce comprising women, the organisation has consistently championed initiatives rooted in courage, empowerment, and the transformative impact of care.

New Delhi, Dec 22: As fitness culture continues to gain momentum across India, orthopaedic specialists are raising concerns over a parallel and worrying trend a noticeable rise in gym-related injuries, particularly among young adults. Hospitals across the country report an increasing number of young professionals and students seeking treatment for musculoskeletal injuries linked to excessive or improper workout practices.

Orthopaedic observations in 2025 indicate a clear surge in injuries involving muscles, ligaments, and joints, with patients under 35 years accounting for a significant proportion of cases. Doctors attribute this trend to high-intensity training, poor exercise form, lack of professional supervision, and insufficient recovery time, which result in injuries that were earlier more commonly seen in older age groups.

Commenting on the trend, Dr. Simon Thomas, Senior Director  Robotics & Orthopaedics, Max Hospital Shalimar Bagh, said,

“We’ve seen a significant rise in gym-related injuries among young Indians, with almost half of our orthopaedic patients being under 35. What’s striking is that these are motivated young professionals and students who are genuinely trying to stay healthy. In their quest for quick results, many push their bodies too hard without giving themselves enough rest, without supervision, and without paying proper attention to their form. As a result, we’re seeing more ligament sprains, shoulder and knee injuries, back pain, and even early cartilage damage, issues we earlier associated with older patients. The good news is that most of this is preventable. Slowing down, focusing on correct technique, allowing the body time to recover, and seeking proper supervision can go a long way. Fitness should support you for life, not break you down in your youth.”

Echoing this concern, Dr. Vivek Logani, Senior Director  Orthopaedics, Paras Health, said,

“In 2025, we have observed a 25–30 per cent increase in gym-related musculoskeletal injuries compared to last year. Nearly one in three patients presenting with sports or fitness injuries report excessive or improper gym training as the primary cause. Common injuries include muscle tears, ligament and tendon damage, shoulder and knee sprains, stress fractures, and occasional bone injuries. While the growing focus on fitness is encouraging, overtraining, lifting heavy weights without supervision, and skipping warm-up or recovery phases are leading to preventable long-term damage.

Experts emphasise that while the increased interest in fitness is a positive shift, it must be supported by awareness and safe training practices. They advise gym-goers to focus on correct technique, gradual progression, adequate rest, and professional supervision to reduce injury risk. As more young Indians embrace fitness as a lifestyle, orthopaedic specialists stress that sustainable training is key to protecting long-term musculoskeletal health.

By:- Ms. Aditi Prasad Apte, Senior  Clinical Nutritionist, Aster RV Hospital.

When the weather gets extremely cold, our body works extra hard to stay warm. This means we burn more calories, use more energy and even lose moisture without realising it. To handle all this, the body needs the right kind of food  not just for warmth, but also for immunity, energy and overall well-being. Here are some foods that genuinely help the body cope with harsh cold weather and why they are so beneficial.

1. Ghee and Other Healthy Fats

Ghee is one of the best foods for extreme cold. It gives slow and steady energy, keeps the body warm from within, and supports digestion even in winter when metabolism becomes sluggish. Healthy fats like ghee, nuts, seeds and cold-pressed oils provide insulation  they act like a protective layer inside the body. These fats also support the skin, which tends to get dry and flaky in winter.

2. Millets and Whole Grains

Ragi, bajra, jowar and whole wheat are excellent winter grains. They take longer to digest, which means they release energy slowly and keep the body warm for hours. Ragi is rich in calcium and iron; bajra naturally heats the body and improves blood circulation. Eating millet rotis, porridge or dosas during cold weather helps maintain body temperature and prevents fatigue.

3. Root Vegetables 

Root vegetables grow underground, so they naturally carry warmth-producing properties. Sweet potatoes are especially helpful because they are packed with complex carbs, fibre and antioxidants. Carrots and beetroot boost immunity, improve blood flow (which helps keep hands and feet warm), and provide essential minerals like potassium and folate.

4. Seasonal Fruits: Oranges, Guava, Apples

Cold weather often brings more infections, so fruits rich in Vitamin C become crucial. Oranges and guava strengthen immunity and support lung health, which is very important during winter flu season. Apples provide natural energy and fibre, helping the digestive system function well. These fruits also prevent dryness because they contain a lot of natural water.

5. Nuts and Seeds

Almonds, walnuts, cashews, pumpkin seeds and sesame seeds are like tiny winter powerhouses. They are rich in healthy fats, protein, magnesium and Vitamin E. Sesame (til) is especially warming and helps keep bones strong. Nuts also stabilise blood sugar, which tends to fluctuate more in cold climates because the body uses energy faster.

6. Herbal Teas and Spices

Ginger tea, tulsi tea, cinnamon water and black pepper water are excellent in extremely cold weather. They warm the body instantly and boost immunity. Ginger reduces inflammation and helps keep the throat clear. Cinnamon supports blood sugar control and digestion. Turmeric milk is another winter staple  it improves immunity, supports joint health and fights infections.

7. Hot Soups and Broths

Hot vegetable soups, chicken broth, and dal soups give warmth, hydration and essential nutrients in one go. Soups keep the body moist from the inside, which is important because we don’t feel thirsty in cold weather and end up drinking less water. Warm liquids support circulation and keep the body comfortable.

8. Eggs and Lean Meat

Eggs are a complete source of protein and also contain Vitamin D, which becomes very important in winter when sunlight is limited. Lean meats provide iron and B vitamins that help maintain energy levels. These foods also help build muscle strength, which the body needs more in cold climates to stay active and warm.

9. Jaggery 

Jaggery is a natural warming agent. It helps with digestion, improves blood flow and is rich in minerals like iron and magnesium. In many cultures, eating a small piece of jaggery during winter is an age-old practice for maintaining warmth and boosting immunity.

In extreme cold, the body needs warmth, energy, hydration and immune support  all at the same time. Choosing foods that are rich in healthy fats, complex carbs, proteins, and essential vitamins can help you stay active, warm and healthy even in harsh weather. A simple combination of ghee, whole grains, soups, nuts, fruits and warm beverages can make a huge difference in how your body handles winter.

Hyderabad, Dec 22: Over 30,000 participants joined in person, with a million more from around the globe participating virtually, at the Heartfulness-led World Meditation Day event at Kanha Shanti Vanam, home to the world’s largest meditation hall. Themed ‘One World, One Heart’, the meditation led by Revered Daaji, Guide of Heartfulness and President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission, reflected the spirit of collective consciousness and shared humanity. The event was attended by the Hon’ble Vice President of India – Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan; the Hon’ble Governor of Telangana – Shri Jishnu Dev Varma; and Hon’ble Minister of IT of Telangana – Shri Sridhar Babu who also took part in the meditation.

Speaking about the impact of the event, the Hon’ble Vice President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, “I appreciate the Heartfulness movement for its unparalleled commitment to peace, harmony and spiritual wellbeing. Heartfulness meditation is being practiced by police force in Madhya Pradesh, and they have witnessed a great change in their consciousness. As the Global spiritual guide, Daaji has made meditation simple practice for all ages and culture. His teachings emphasise balance, compassion and inner transformation to build a sound society through conscious living. Meditation leads to inner peace, clarity of heart and mind. India has centuries of spiritual wisdom attained by rishis as part of its heritage and through the teachings of vedas, Upanishads and Gita has contributed immensely to the world. The true source of all wisdom leads to culmination of jeeva into Shiva. Meditation is a need for collective progress towards becoming Viksit Bharat – not only as an economic leader but also as a spiritual leader. When we meditate, we transcend the barrier of humanity towards oneness towards society and nature. Let us lead by this example through spirituality and sustainability. Embrace mental peace and harmony.”

The Hon’ble Governor of Telangana, Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, said: “It is a privilege to be here honouring Indian’s timeless wisdom. Meditation brings clarity, helps discover our inner being, it guides the inner journey from untruth to truth, darkness to light, mortality to immortality. Our ancient wisdom suggests that through meditation ego is dissolved, allowing nations to embrace; it nurtures wellness and empathy and goodwill and contentment. This world meditation day, collective meditation can elevate humanity from agitation to clarity, division to oneness, impulse to restraint and collective observance and universal wellbeing.”

Speaking about the initiative, Revered Daaji, Guide of Heartfulness and President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission said, “Meditation helps us to understand the purpose of life and yet meditation comes with practice. The processes is eased through Pranahuti – a divine energy which accelerates our journey to the ultimate Destination. Meditation in Sanskrit means Dhyana – a word which is a derivative of Dhi and Yan which is akin to a vehicle that transports one’s consciousness to the Divine. It is a tool to drop the inertia and arrive at a higher consciousness. Just as our body needs nourishment, so does our mind needs nourishment which comes through meditation. I am overjoyed to have our esteemed dignitaries who are also advocating meditation through Pranahuti and the innumerable numbers participate in today’s meditation to raise our collective consciousness.”

In the year 2024, the United National General Assembly unanimously declared 21 December coinciding with winter solstice as World Meditation Day when humanity would go inwards for peace. Heartfulness has been touching millions of hearts around the world creating a powerful wave of peace. 50000 police personal across 2600 meditation centres and police stations in Madhya Pradesh meditated in group today and vowed to meditate every Sunday in the police station, in an unprecedented historic moment for the nation and world. For this Shri Kailash Makwana – DGP Madhya Pradesh, was presented the Heartfulness Changemaker Award for contributed the initiative in the police force.

The session was open to everyone, including youth, students, professionals, and people from all walks of life. The meditation featured the transmission of Pranahuti by Daaji, a yogic energy that supports a shift into subtler states of consciousness and a natural sense of calm. Rooted in the teachings of Lalaji Maharaj and Babuji Maharaj, Heartfulness has grown into a global movement and continues to reach people across continents under Daaji’s guidance. Many practitioners have testified to the effectiveness of Heartfulness meditation, citing greater emotional steadiness, deeper clarity, and a more composed response to daily challenges.

Heartfulness rests on a simple observation: much of our lives is shaped by what we feel and the quiet inspirations that guide us. The practice encourages individuals to pay attention to this inner space with clarity. When the mind and heart begin to work in tune, life is more balanced. This is why Heartfulness focuses on meditating on the heart, a practical way of listening inward and navigating everyday life with a clearer sense of direction.

Pune,  Dec 19: Doctors at Manipal Hospital, Kharadi successfully used the advanced minimally invasive endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal  technique to remove a difficult skull base tumour -pituitary macroadenoma. Patient was experiencing severe headaches and progressive vision loss in both eyes and consulted multiple eye specialists but her vision continued to deteriorate. Eventually she was referred to Dr. Sachin Patil, Neurosurgeon, Manipal Hospital, Kharadi. A thorough examination and a 3 Tesla MRI of the brain revealed a massive, non-functioning pituitary tumor pushing on both optic nerves in the center and base of the brain. After the surgery, there were early indications of eyesight restoration and symptom reduction.

Speaking about the case, Dr. Sachin Patil, Consultant  Neurosurgery, Manipal Hospital Kharadi, said;

 “In the past, craniotomies, or open brain surgeries, were commonly performed to remove such tumors. In this case, our multidisciplinary team carried out the excision using the EETS technique, involving neuronavigational and high-definition endoscopic cameras to safely access and remove the tumor through the nasal cavity without making external incisions. We were able to remove  almost entire tumor with minimal damage to the surrounding healthy tissue due to the endoscopic technique, which led to a quicker recovery time and a significantly higher quality of life for our patient.”

Mr. Parameswar Das, Hospital Director, Manipal Hospital Kharadi, Pune said;

 “Cases like these showcase our dedication in delivering advanced and less invasive treatments that improve patient outcomes. The EETS procedure offers significant advantages such as reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stay, and a lower likelihood of reoperation compared to traditional methods. The patient’s successful recovery and positive initial progress underscore our commitment to cutting-edge, patient-centred care.”

The procedure was led by a multidisciplinary team at Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, comprising Neurosurgeon Dr. Sachin Patil and Otolaryngologist Dr. Vijay Sharma.