Category health

Written By: Mr. Vikram Thaploo, CEO-Telehealth, Apollo Hospitals Enterprises Limited

The health sector in India faces critical challenges, with a substantial proportion of the population still in rural areas. In the last two decades, primary healthcare centers have played a significant role in the rural healthcare service provision. As of March 31, 2022, the country had 31,053 PHCs, with 24,935 in rural settings. The Bhore Committee, which conceptualized PHCs in 1946, conceptualized these centers as fundamental units to bring healthcare closer to the people, with an emphasis both on prevention and treatment. But despite their critical importance, progress in expanding PHCs has been slow and lags in many rural areas of the country.

Primary Healthcare Centers play an essential role in delivering routine check-ups, and immunizations, managing chronic diseases, and referral care. However, with more than 70% of healthcare delivery being provided by private entities, people living in rural regions face issues accessing good care at an affordable rate. In addition, considering the increase in both communicable and non-communicable diseases, PHCs might help reduce the pressure on Indian healthcare delivery. The article explores the role that PHCs can play in addressing healthcare challenges and examines steps required to strengthen PHCs toward better health outcomes.

The Critical Role of Primary Health Care in Building a Healthier India

Primary health care acts as the backbone of the healthcare system in the country. It caters to millions, mainly in rural areas, by making health care accessible and affordable and providing preventive care. It helps reduce the burden of chronic illnesses by focusing on prevention, regular check-ups, and vaccinations and minimizes the need for costly, specialized treatments. This helps in improving general public health and saving resources as health issues are dealt with early, thereby preventing hospital admissions that are costly and demand expensive secondary care.

Primary health care is also important in bridging the health inequalities gap. It ensures that healthcare access goes even to the most remote and destitute corners of the country regardless of the income brackets or locations, and such factors could make a difference in societal levels across this country. The recent rise of primary health care is focusing on a bigger effort for India to achieve Universal Health Coverage, making sure everyone receives adequate health care, especially the vulnerable sections.

Additionally, primary health care in India is also playing a big role in dealing with emerging health issues such as climate change. It ranges from dealing with the health impacts of extreme weather events like floods and heatwaves to the emergence of new infectious diseases and malnutrition. Many countries across the world are investing in primary health care; therefore, India must also identify the immense potential in its primary healthcare system to create a resilient and sustainable healthcare system. Primary healthcare strengthening must be a priority to improve health outcomes, reduce mortality, and make sure that future generations remain healthy.

Challenges Faced by Primary Healthcare in India: A Closer Look

Many barriers hinder India’s public primary care system in order to deliver accessible and quality care. Key challenges facing this system include:

1. Limited scope of services

The current primary health care system only addresses a few of the health issues people encounter, amounting to about 15%. It is mainly pregnancy care, child health, and national health programs. There are gaps in areas that include chronic disease management, mental health, and geriatric care. Expanding the scope of services is important in comprehensive healthcare delivery.

2. Lack of Sufficient Funding:

Healthcare spending in India is very low. In FY23, the combined expenditure of central and state governments was only 2.1 percent of GDP. This compares rather poorly with other BRICS countries, such as Brazil (3.8 percent), China (3.1 percent), and South Africa (4.2 percent). Low budgets immediately impact the quality and outreach of primary healthcare services.

3. Poor Infrastructure

Infrastructure gaps further pose a huge issue for PHCs across the country. For example, it was reported in the National Health Profile 2019 that almost one-fourth (22%) of the primary health centers do not have specific rooms for important services like immunization and family planning. Also, in some states such as Rajasthan, families may need to travel between 10 and 20 kilometers to access the nearest PHC, thereby rendering healthcare unavailable to many.

4. Shortage of Healthcare Professionals

In many PHCs, there are only a handful of healthcare workers who are fully trained and supervised to provide quality services. Workforce shortages, inefficient management, low-quality training, and lack of supervision can lead to disruptions in care and poor patient outcomes.

5. Restricted Supply of Medicines

High prices of medicines act as a barrier to healthcare for many Indians. Although the free medicine scheme of the government is intended to address this issue, it encounters supply chain problems and a lack of drugs. This puts patients in the hands of unregulated pharmacies, which have often been selling low-quality or even spurious medicines, a serious threat to health.

6. Bad Quality of Care

According to A Lancet study, half of Indian patients do not receive proper care for their conditions. Poorly trained professionals, poor physical infrastructure, and lack of regulation over healthcare providers contribute to this mix. Secondly, low health literacy leads the patient to seek medical assistance late in the disease phase, further worsening health outcomes.

7. Overburdened Facilities in Poor States

Primary health centers are saturated, particularly in states such as Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand, where the number of people served by one PHC far exceeds 25,000; they serve up to 76,000 people in many instances. This overburdens the facilities and compromises the provision of services.

8. Chronic Underinvestment

PHCs often function in under-equipped settings, drug shortages, and limited stocks, which makes it really difficult to provide quality healthcare. This underinvestment affects the very foundation of a healthcare system.

The Way Forward

To address the challenges in India’s primary healthcare, a holistic approach is required starting with the right financial investment. Health spending as a percentage of GDP can be ensured to reach 3-4% such that public spending constitutes at least 70% of total health expenditure. It would then allow for strong funding for schemes such as Ayushman Bharat, which aims to convert more than 1.5 lakh health facilities into Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs). These HWCs must be enabled to provide Comprehensive Primary Health Care (CPHC), which would ensure treatment as well as preventive and promotive health services right at the doorsteps of people. Proper implementation of this scheme with clear accountability and resource use efficiency is what would make healthcare accessible and impactful.

Furthermore, technology can fill in the gaps of healthcare. Telemedicine can deliver quality care to far-flung places, and mHealth applications such as remote monitoring and medication reminders can make healthcare more accessible. HIE systems enhance better care coordination by making data sharing efficient and minimizing errors. Improving access can also be achieved by addressing information gaps through reliable health information utilities and the Digital Health Mission. In fact, an equitable and efficient primary healthcare system in India can be driven by technology coupled with better funding and strong regulations.

Authored by Dr. Dishit Vaghasia, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, HCG Hospitals, Rajkot

Vitamins are the building blocks of good health, playing a vital role in supporting the body’s immunity, energy levels, and overall well-being. During winter, our nutritional needs become even more critical as the cold weather and reduced sunlight exposure can weaken immunity and affect physical health. Vitamins such as D, C, and A are particularly essential in combating seasonal challenges, keeping our bodies resilient against illnesses while maintaining energy and vitality through the chilly months.

Vitamin D, often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin,” is essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones. During the winter months, limited sunlight exposure can lead to reduced vitamin D levels, increasing the risk of bone-related issues such as osteoporosis, fractures, and joint pain. Understanding the importance of vitamin D and ensuring adequate intake during colder months is vital for maintaining optimal bone health.

The Role of Vitamin D in Bone Health

Vitamin D plays a pivotal role in regulating calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood, ensuring that bones remain strong and healthy. Without adequate vitamin D, the body struggles to absorb calcium, leading to weakened bones and a higher risk of fractures. For children, insufficient vitamin D can result in rickets, a condition characterized by soft, weak bones while adults may develop osteomalacia, a similar condition that causes pain in bone and muscle weakness.

Why Winter Poses a Challenge?

During winter, shorter days and reduced sunlight exposure significantly impact the body’s ability to produce vitamin D. The angle of the sun is lower, and in many regions, UVB rays which are the key component for vitamin D synthesis do not reach the Earth with enough intensity. Additionally, people tend to spend more time indoors during winter, further limiting their exposure to natural sunlight.

Cold climates and heavy clothing also block sunlight from reaching the skin, making it harder for the body to produce sufficient vitamin D naturally. These factors collectively increase the likelihood of vitamin D deficiency during winter months.

Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency

A lack of vitamin D may manifest through various symptoms, including:
• Bone pain or tenderness
• Frequent fractures or injuries
• Muscle weakness
• Fatigue and general malaise
• Depressed mood or seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

How to Maintain Adequate Vitamin D Levels in winter?

To maintain adequate vitamin D levels during winter, it’s essential to adopt a few practical strategies. First, try to get safe sun exposure whenever possible by spending 10–30 minutes outdoors during midday hours with your face, arms, and legs exposed to sunlight. In addition to sunlight, our diet plays a crucial role in maintaining vitamin D levels. Non-vegetarians can include fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and tuna, as well as egg yolks. Vegetarians can opt for fortified dairy products, cereals, and UV-exposed mushrooms. If natural sources are insufficient, consider taking vitamin D supplements after consulting with a healthcare professional to determine the right dosage. Lastly, stay active outdoors to maximize daylight exposure while maintaining physical fitness. Engaging in outdoor activities not only supports bone health but also boosts overall well-being during the winter season.

Conclusion

Ensuring adequate vitamin D levels is not just about preventing bone-related conditions; it also supports overall health, including immune function, muscle strength, and mental well-being. Addressing vitamin D deficiency, especially in winter, is crucial for preventing long-term health complications and maintaining a strong skeletal framework.

CHARLOTTE (Dec. 24, 2024) – Holiday blues are on the rise this year according to notable mental health counselor and life coach Veronda Bellamy– known for creating the Relevancy Factor® which received nationwide attention during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people are experiencing high levels of stress, anxiety and seasonal depression due to high expectations both personally and by loved ones. According to a study by the American Heart Association, 79% of people surveyed agree that, during the holidays, they are so focused on creating special moments for others they overlook their own needs.

Happyology® Portal is an online, self-paced program designed to help participants free their mind while learning to be their authentic selves. The program includes disrupting the mental blocks and setbacks so that people can live more powerful, purposeful lives through analyzing, treatment, evolving and connecting. The vision of the program is to empower women to discover and disrupt the mundanity of living that has left them stagnant, unfulfilled or hopeless.

“Given the political climate along with the cost of living being at an all-time high while many people struggle to make ends meet; unprecedented stress and uncertainty almost feel normal and that is a huge problem,” said Bellamy. “People are learning to re-evaluate life and what makes them happy, the Happyology® methodology and course is designed to do just that. Pulling back to self-reflect and change paces can be a huge coping mechanism to help manage depression amongst many other ways to help navigate.”

Happyology® was developed after a recent survey in the journal JAMA Network Open found a three-fold increase in depression — from 8.5 percent before the pandemic to nearly 28 percent in late March and early April 2020. Anxiety also spiked about 30 percent of Americans experiencing clinically significant symptoms in the same period.

By Dr. Santosh Chikkaraddy, Sr.Surgical Oncologist, HCG NMR Cancer Center, Hubli

Although rare, thyroid cancer is growing fast and has become common in young women. In the last few years, according to the statistics, it was seen that it is the most common cancer in the population of women aged 20-39 years. While the thyroid cancers are rising in the numbers, this remains an obscure entity which often disguises as a benign lump in the neck. It is crucial to make the young woman aware of the risks, symptoms, and treatment options that are available for thyroid cancer.

Risk Factors and Symptoms
Thyroid cancer often occurs in women aged between 20 and 39 years. Even though the causes of thyroid cancer remain unknown, some risk factors have been identified. Some of these include: family history of thyroid cancer, exposure to radiation especially during childhood, some genetic syndromes such as multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN), and gender: women are more frequently diagnosed than men and three times as likely to develop thyroid cancer than men.

Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer
The symptoms of thyroid cancer can be low-key; they include a mass or nodule in the neck, swelling in the neck, pain in the neck or throat, hoarseness or changes in the voice, difficulty swallowing or breathing, coughing, and a persistent sore throat. In some instances, thyroid cancer may have no noticeable symptoms at all till it has spread to the other parts of the body.

Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of thyroid cancer is usually a blend of physical examination and imaging tests, along with FNAC. The treatment usually includes surgery or radioactive iodine therapy or a combination of both.

Surgical Treatment: Surgical removal of the thyroid gland, referred to as thyroidectomy, is considered the first and foremost step in the treatment of thyroid cancer.

Radioactive Iodine Therapy: This therapy entails the oral consumption of radioactive iodine, which kills cancerous cells in the body.

Prevention and Detection
Although there are no known methods to ensure thyroid cancer, the risks can be minimized by employing the following: regular check-ups, healthy lifestyle, and avoidance of radiation.

Healthy Lifestyle
Having a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risks of thyroid cancer. A healthy diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, regular exercise, stress management, and proper sleep can help prevent thyroid cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption also helps reduce the risk.

Avoiding Radiation Exposure
Limiting exposure to radiation, especially during childhood and adolescence, can also reduce the risk of getting thyroid cancer. This includes avoiding unnecessary medical imaging tests, such as CT scans, and avoiding exposure to radiation from sources such as nuclear power plants.

Thyroid cancer is a significant health concern for young women in India. While awareness of the risks and symptoms of this condition is essential, the importance of early detection and treatment cannot be overlooked. Being more proactive about our health, making efforts to lower our risk, and seeking medical attention promptly if symptoms occur can help prevent and cure thyroid cancer effectively. Together, we can help reduce the burden of thyroid cancer in India and ensure our citizens lead healthier lives.

December 6th, 2024 – Stroke, a medical condition often associated with older adults, is now alarmingly on the rise among Karnataka’s young population. Driven by factors such as poor lifestyle choices, chronic stress, and environmental influences, the state is witnessing an increasing number of stroke cases in individuals as young as their late teens. These strokes frequently lead to severe neurological deficits, forcing survivors to confront physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges. Early intervention and rehabilitation are proving essential in addressing this growing epidemic, as demonstrated by the remarkable recovery of a 19-year-old boy.

The young second-year engineering student’s life changed dramatically during a routine gym session. While lifting weights, he suffered a stroke, leaving him with locked-in syndrome—a rare neurological condition characterized by near-total paralysis, where communication is limited to eye movements. For his family, the incident was devastating, as their once-active son was suddenly left immobile and dependent.

Dr. Dheeraj Adiga, a PM&R Specialist at HCAH Recovery and Rehabilitation Center, Bangalore emphasized the critical role of early rehabilitation: “The golden period of recovery is vital for stroke patients, as it leverages the brain’s neuroplasticity to rebuild and relearn lost functions. Our individualized approach and tailored solutions, particularly for young adults, have proven effective. In this case, we successfully removed the tracheostomy in a record time of just 50 days—something many hospitals had deemed impossible. This young patient’s remarkable recovery underscores the impact of timely intervention and comprehensive care.”

Stroke survivors frequently experience various neurological deficits, including motor impairments like paralysis (hemiplegia), weakness (hemiparesis), spasticity, ataxia, and dysphagia, as well as sensory deficits such as numbness, tingling, loss of proprioception, and visual impairments. These challenges can significantly hinder their ability to perform daily tasks and maintain independence.

Dr. Gaurav Thukral, Co-founder & COO of HCAH Recovery and Rehabilitation Center, stated, “This case was one of the most complex we’ve encountered, featuring rare extrapyramidal symptoms and hyperextension of limbs that severely hindered the patient’s ability to stand, complicating stroke recovery. Our multidisciplinary team, led by Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) specialists, effectively navigated these challenges using innovative medications aimed at restoring crucial brain hormones, resulting in transformative outcomes. This highlights our commitment to expertise, innovation, and a patient-centred approach. At HCAH, we strive not only to restore mobility but also to instil hope and enhance the quality of life for our patients. In this rare case of bleeding in the hind brain, we achieved what seemed impossible: facilitating one of the fastest recoveries by helping the young man regain mobility and independence within weeks.”

Vivek Srivastava, Founder and CEO of HCAH India, expressed his commitment to purposefulness in healthcare, stating, “At HCAH, we are dedicated to reducing avoidable disabilities and ensuring the fastest recovery for our patients. Our team’s unwavering dedication and innovative approaches allow us to achieve remarkable outcomes that many thought impossible. I am incredibly proud of our team, whose expertise and compassion drive our mission to transform lives and restore hope.“

The first 90 days following a stroke, often called the “golden period,” are crucial for recovery. During this time, the brain’s neuroplasticity—the capacity to reorganize and create new neural pathways—is at its peak, providing patients with the best opportunity to regain lost functions. At HCAH, the multidisciplinary team (MDT) took a holistic approach to the young man’s rehabilitation, addressing both his physical and emotional needs. The treatments focused on cognitive, sensory, swallowing, speech, motor recovery, and mobility, ensuring a comprehensive strategy that maximized his chances for a successful recovery.

The young man’s mother expressed profound gratitude for his son’s recovery, stating, “When my son suffered a stroke, our world fell apart. Watching him struggle to move or speak was heartbreaking. However, the team at HCAH restored our hope. They didn’t just treat him; they brought him back to life. Today, he can walk with support, eat orally, and produce understandable words. Seeing him take his first steps again has been a miracle, and we will forever be grateful for their exceptional care and dedication.”

As Karnataka continues to grapple with the rising tide of strokes among its youth, centers like HCAH Recovery and Rehabilitation stand as beacons of hope, offering life-changing care and helping patients reclaim their independence and quality of life.

06 December 2024: Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road successfully treated a 93-Year-Old women suffering from severe calcific aortic stenosis (severe narrowing of the heart’s valve due to calcium buildup) alongwith multiple co-morbidities via a Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) procedure . The minimally invasive procedure, one of the latest advancements in cardiac care, was performed by Dr. Srinivas BV, Senior Consultant – Interventional Cardiology, and was completed in just 30 minutes while the patient remained fully conscious.

Patient Mrs. Anne had been experiencing frequent dizziness, chest discomfort and overall weakness, owing to which she was unable to perform her daily chores. Concerned about her deteriorating condition, she sought medical advice. After a thorough check-up, doctors diagnosed that she had a serious heart condition known as aortic stenosis, where calcium buildup had narrowed the valve that helps blood flow out of her heart. This made it harder for her heart to pump blood efficiently.

Given her advanced age and additional co-morbidities such as rheumatoid arthritis, a prior stroke and melanoma, she needed an intricate line of treatment. Dr Srinivas BV recommended Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI), a minimally invasive procedure, as the safest and best treatment option, considering the high risks associated with traditional open-heart surgery.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) is a minimally invasive procedure often recommended for elderly patients or those at high risk for open-heart surgery. It involves inserting a new valve into the heart without removing the old, damaged valve. TAVI is particularly effective for patients with severe aortic stenosis and typically results in faster recovery times compared to traditional heart surgery.

Dr. Srinivas BV, Senior Consultant – Interventional Cardiology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, said, “This case was especially challenging due to the patient’s advanced age and multiple comorbidities, including a history of stroke and rheumatoid arthritis. Traditional open-heart surgery posed significant risks for her, and in such cases, TAVI becomes a game changer. The procedure was completed in less than 30 minutes, and throughout the operation, we ensured her safety with the use of advanced cerebral protection devices. These devices significantly reduce the risk of stroke, one of the major concerns for elderly patients undergoing heart procedures. The patient’s recovery was remarkable; she was walking the very next day, which is a testament to the efficacy and safety of TAVI, especially for high-risk individuals like her.”

Mr. Akshay Oleti, Business Head, Fortis Hospitals, Bangalore said, “At Fortis Bannerghatta, we take pride in pioneering advanced cardiac treatments like TAVI, ensuring that even the most high-risk patients receive exceptional care. The success of this procedure on a 93-year-old patient highlights our dedication to improving lives through innovative technology and expert medical intervention.”

December 6, 2024: Aster CMI Hospital has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Arunachal Pradesh to provide life-saving liver transplantation services at an affordable cost. This initiative is set to benefit patients with end-stage liver disease, particularly children suffering from congenital liver conditions like biliary atresia or genetic defects.

Liver transplantation is critical for survival in such cases, offering a 95% success rate, especially in children when a living donor from the family is available. However, high costs ranging between INR.20-25 lakhs often deter families from seeking this treatment.

Aster CMI Hospital, in collaboration with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives and crowdfunding platforms, has developed the largest affordable pediatric liver transplant program in the country. The Aster Integrated Liver Care team, one of the nation’s largest, has collectively performed over 1,000 liver transplants, including successful procedures for infants weighing less than 5 kilograms an exceptional milestone in India.

Under this initiative, patients from Arunachal Pradesh requiring liver transplants can access treatment at Aster CMI Hospital’s state-of-the-art facilities in Bangalore at the lowest cost in the country. This program ensures no additional financial burden for the state government or the patients, enabling them to benefit from a well-supported mechanism that brings hope and health closer to home.

Dr. Sonal Asthana, Lead Consultant, HPB & Liver Transplant Surgery, Aster CMI Hospital, shared: “This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to making liver transplantation accessible and affordable for everyone. By leveraging advanced medical expertise and creating economic pathways, we aim to provide a second chance at life to those battling end-stage liver disease.”

SGS Lakshmanan, COO of Aster CMI Hospital, also remarked: ” At Aster CMI, our mission is to make world-class healthcare accessible to all. By collaborating with Arunachal Pradesh’s government, we are setting a benchmark in affordable and specialized care, ensuring every patient receives the treatment they deserve, regardless of economic challenges.”

December6, 2024 – The Integrated Health & Wellbeing (IHW) Council will host the Lung Health & Oncology National Conference 2024 on December 7, 2024, at the Ambedkar International Convention Centre, New Delhi. It will be a distinguished gathering of influential national stakeholders from governmental agencies, health sectors, and other allied organizations to discuss major issues in lung cancer management and make headway on personalized health care in the country.

Lung cancer happens to be the fourth most common cancer in India, with an annual incidence of 72,510 cases and 66,279 deaths, as calculated by The Lancet. Contributing factors include growing air pollution, industrial exposure, and smoking. Key areas of discussion at this conference will be patient-centric care, precision medicine, and cutting-edge diagnostic developments that characterize the future of oncology. It aims to foster cooperation and exchange of knowledge as well as elevate standards in treating lung cancer, focusing on innovation, early detection, and equal access to advanced care.

The event will feature an esteemed line-up of speakers, including Mr. Kamal Narayan, CEO, IHW Council; Dr. Saroj Das Majumder, Professor & HOD, Radiation Oncology Department, AIIMS, Bhubaneshwar; Col Rajeev Mannali, CEO, SUT Pattom Super Speciality Hospital; Mohammed Yahya, Director – CEO’s Office at Qure.ai; Dr. Charu Bahl, Senior Manager: Scientific Affairs Manager at Medgenome Labs; Dr.Moushumi Suryavanshi, Senior Consultant & Head (Molecular biology and cytogenetics); Dr. Anant Mohan, AIIMS Delhi; Col (Dr.) Shafin Babu, Associate Professor and Consultant Pulmonologist Department of Pulmonary- Critical Care and sleep Medicine, Command Hospital Eastern Command, Kolkata; Dr. Sridhar P S, Radiation Oncologist; Dr. Belal Bin Asaf, Founder Trustee, Associate Director of the Institute of Chest Surgery, Chest Onco-Surgery & Lung Transplantation at the Medanta – The Medicity, Gurugram, Haryana; Dr. Aditya Murali, Senior Consultant, Medical Oncology and Hemato Oncology, Apollo Hospitals; Dr. Subodh Kumar, Professor AIIMS, Deoghar; Dr. Navneet Singh, Professor, Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER); Vandana Mahajan, Lead Counsellor, Lung Connect; Mr. Vivek Tomar, (PhD, MPharm, Certification in NGO organisation management), Co-founder – “Rise To Survive Cancer; Dr. Urvashi Prasad, Former Director Niti Aayog.

The conference agenda is designed to facilitate insightful discussions on important issues. Sessions will be presented exploring the epidemiology of lung cancer in India, the impact of public awareness and the importance of screening and improving infrastructures to reduce the disease burden. The role of AI technology will also be discussed, as well as how it is transforming the detection of lung cancer, allowing early detection and accurate diagnostic capabilities, especially in resource-deprived settings. The focus will also be on molecular biomarkers, which can offer important insights into tumor biology to enable timely and personal interventions.

A session on multidisciplinary treatment approaches will discuss new advances in the management of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC). Experts would be discussing the practical applicability of global guidelines, innovative treatments, and the challenges these bring in their implementation into the Indian scenario. The end will culminate in a session to address lacunas in lung cancer care and explore regional disparities as well as actionable solutions like the role patient advocacy groups play in bettering equitable healthcare access.

Kamal Narayan Omer, Founder and CEO of IHW Council, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “One of the most serious health issues confronting the country today is lung cancer. This is an issue that needs immediate and collective attention from all stakeholders involved. This conference provides a great opportunity for experts, innovators, and policymakers under one roof to discuss innovative solutions for the care of lung cancer. By focusing on new diagnostic technologies, early detection approaches, and equitable access to personalized treatments, we can create a way for better outcomes and a stronger healthcare ecosystem. We must make meaningful progress and offer renewed hope to patients and families suffering from this challenging disease.”

The Lung Health & Oncology National Conference 2024 is, therefore a much-needed step for the conquest of lung cancer in India. It lays emphasis on prevention, early detection, and advanced treatment approaches, facilitating collaboration and innovation for effective change in the management of lung cancer.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of death in Australia, with diet-related factors such as high blood pressure, elevated body mass index, and high cholesterol levels significantly contributing to its prevalence. Emerging research highlights almonds as a nutritional powerhouse that can play a vital role in promoting heart health.
Almonds and Heart Health
With over 25 years of scientific research, almonds are celebrated for their heart-protective benefits. A systematic review in 2016 demonstrated that diets enriched with almonds significantly reduced total cholesterol, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, and triglycerides, without affecting HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels. Australian almonds contain healthy fats, known as monounsaturated fats which are good for the heart. These monounsaturated fats help to lower ‘bad’ cholesterol and total cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease. But it’s not just the good fats, it’s the unique nutrient matrix that Australian almonds contain that supports heart health, including plant protein, fibre, calcium, vitamin E, phytosterols, polyphenols and many other vitamins and minerals.
Why Almonds? Almonds stand out for their unique nutrient matrix, which combines:
● Healthy Fats: Low in saturated fat and high in mono- and polyunsaturated fats.
● Fibre & Phytosterols: Contributing to reduced cholesterol reabsorption and increased excretion.
● Antioxidants: Helping to combat oxidative stress linked to cardiovascular damage.
● L-arginine: Supporting endothelial function by improving nitric oxide bioavailability.
Almonds in Everyday Diets
The Australian Dietary Guidelines recommend consuming 30 grams of nuts, including almonds, daily. Incorporating almonds as a portable and convenient snack, or as part of recipes inspired by the Mediterranean diet, has shown promise in reducing CVD risk by up to 30%.
What Does the Research Say?
Reducing Oxidative Stress: Regular almond consumption is associated with reduced oxidative stress—a condition contributing to the onset of diseases like diabetes and CVD.Improving Endothelial Function:Studies indicate that nuts, rich in L-arginine, can enhance blood vessel function, reducing risks linked to atherosclerosis. Mediterranean Diet Benefits: The landmark PREDIMED study demonstrated that older adults on a Mediterranean diet supplemented with nuts experienced a 30% reduction in CVD incidence.

5th December, 2024: Redcliffe Labs, a purpose-driven pan-India omnichannel diagnostics service provider, has conducted a study that reveals arthritis is no longer limited to older adults. It affects individuals of all age groups and genders. Conducted over three years with 2 million tests, it revealed that approximately 1 in 5 people are at risk of developing arthritis.

Arthritis symptoms often worsen during the winter season. Colder temperatures can increase joint stiffness and inflammation, making timely intervention even more critical. Individuals with arthritis are advised to adopt preventive measures such as regular physical activity and joint care. With India witnessing a remarkable rise in preventive healthcare awareness, the number of individuals seeking regular health checkups increasing by over threefold from 2022 to 2024. This growing focus on early detection is a critical step toward better health outcomes for millions. With a focus on increasing awareness about the health issue, Redcliffe Labs’ study highlights the gender-neutral nature of arthritis.

The study found abnormal test results in 18% of men and 10% of women aged 26 to 40. It indicates that arthritis is not exclusive to women; instead, the onset of arthritis is higher in men at a younger age, whereas the abnormalities are higher in women with increasing age. Both men and women should be equally cautious and proactive about their health, particularly during colder months.

Dr. Geetanjali Gupta, Director of Technical Operations and Quality Assurance at Redcliffe Labs, stated, “We are observing a shift in the demographics affected by arthritis. With 1 in 5 people at risk of developing arthritis, especially in the younger age group, early diagnosis becomes crucial in preserving mobility and quality of life. Identifying the condition in its early stages allows for proactive treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and long-term management that can significantly slow its progression and reduce its impact. It is crucial to raise awareness and encourage preventive measures to address this growing health concern.”

Furthermore, the study highlights that women, especially as they age, face a higher risk of developing arthritis. The risk increases from 10% in the age group above 25 to 33% in the age group above 70. However, the risk of developing arthritis remains relatively consistent for men of all ages.

The findings emphasize the importance of early diagnosis, particularly for younger adults, to enhance the quality of life.

Aditya Kandoi, CEO and founder of Redcliffe Labs, also commented on the findings, stating, “The growing awareness of preventive health checkups is encouraging, but there is still much to be done in combatting chronic autoimmune conditions like arthritis. At Redcliffe Labs, we are dedicated to not only providing affordable and accessible diagnostics but also promoting a cultural shift towards proactive health management. Prevention is the future of healthcare, and we are committed to ensuring that more people can take control of their health before it’s too late.”

As arthritis cases increase and more people become aware of the importance of regular checkups, Redcliffe Labs continues to emphasize the significance of preventive care in addressing the country’s growing health challenges.