Category health

Mumbai, 23rd April 2024: In an exceptional feat at Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Dr Ravinder Singh Rao, (Interventional structural Cardiologist, TAVR and MitraClip specialist) and his team successfully performed life-saving Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) procedures on five patients in a single day. The patients suffered from aortic stenosis, a critical heart issue that is averted by open heart surgery. However, the TAVR procedure was done to replace the faulty aortic heart valve without open heart surgery to save the lives of the patients.

The team consisted of Dr Ravinder Singh Rao (Interventional Structural Cardiologist, TAVR and MitraClip expert), Dr. Nitin Gokhale, (Head of Department), Anand Rao (Interventional Cardiologist), Dr Namrata (Cardiac Anaesthetist), Dr. Krishna Prasad Irniraya (Cardiac Surgeon), Dr Ramesh Dargad (Physician), and Dr. Pavan Kumar, (Cardiac Surgeon).

The five patients are all above 60 years of age and were placed at varying degrees of severity. All five surgeries were undertaken with no complications and were all successful. The five patients suffered co-morbidities like hypertension, pulmonary disease, diabetes mellitus, osteoarthritis, and Parkinson’s disease. Three patients had gone through prior surgeries like a CABG procedure, a breast mastectomy, colon surgery, and even previous aortic valve replacement surgery. The patients were suffering from symptoms like poor heart function and breathlessness, severely lowering their quality of life. All these patients had severe aortic stenosis and required a TAVR procedure to transform lives, after a medical evaluation consisting of 2D Echo Tests, and considering their age and comorbidities, the TAVR was planned. The patients expressed their gratitude toward Dr Ravinder Singh Rao and the entire team at Lilavati Hospital for giving them a new lease on life after the completion of this procedure.

Elderly patients like these five are at risk of increased morbidity and mortality rates when the aortic valve becomes narrowed due to calcium build-up, a condition known as aortic stenosis. This serious valvular disorder requires prompt intervention as it can result in symptoms like breathlessness, limited mobility, and reduced ability to perform daily tasks. Lilavati Hospital treats numerous patients suffering from heart valve dysfunction, many of whom benefit from the Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) procedure to enhance their quality of life.

Dr Ravinder Singh Rao, the lead interventional Cardiologist and expert on TAVR, said, “After the diagnosis of aortic stenosis, 95% of patients who do not receive prompt treatment lose their precious lives in 5 years after onset of symptoms. Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) is a boon for patients with aortic stenosis. It is a safe and effective treatment for the patients suffering from aortic stenosis and suitable candidates for TAVR. This minimally- invasive non-surgical procedure is done in the Cath Lab where the damaged valve in the heart is replaced without opening up the patient’s chest or harming the heart muscles.”

TAVR is a game-changer procedure that improves the life expectancy of the patient without any complications. This procedure minimizes the hospital stay and aids quicker recovery of patients by averting open heart surgery which is generally not recommended to the elderly population due to their compromised health status. Currently, there are four TAVI valves approved by the DCGI (Government of India) for successful patient outcomes. Dr Rao adds, “With extensive TAVR expertise, selecting the appropriate valve for each patient is now achievable and can be done safely. Studies have shown that the outcome of the procedure is dependent on the operator volume and experience. Without highest of TAVR in the country, now we are able to do the procedure safely for our complex situations.”

Explaining the procedure, Dr Rao explains, “During the procedure, a hollow tube or catheter is inserted in the femoral artery from the groin to replace the new valve with the faulty valve and the new valve starts functioning immediately. The TAVR procedures were done with cerebral protection to prevent strokes by deploying a filter from the radial artery into the carotid (brain) artery. Any calcium particles dislodged during TAVR procedure are captured by the filter, thus preventing cerebral stroke. The filter is removed after the procedure. The procedure lasts for 1-2 hours and is done under conscious sedation which means the patient is awake during the procedure. All 5 patients have been discharged from the Hospital and are doing well.”

Hyderabad/Tuebingen, 20th April 2024: The DKMS Stiftung Leben Spenden honored Professor Dr Robert Zeiser, one of the world’s most exceptional scientists in the field of allogeneic stem cell transplantation, with the DKMS Mechtild Harf Science Award 2024. The award recognizes the lifetime achievements of internationally renowned physicians and scientists in the field of stem cell transplantation and cellular therapy. “Prof Dr Robert Zeiser’s findings in fundamental research of Graft-versus-Host Disease have led to new therapeutic approaches that are changing standard practices and are significantly improving the outcome for patients after stem cell transplantation. This is also true of his studies on the control of disease relapse after transplantation,” explains Prof Dr Katharina Fleischhauer, member of the DKMS Medical Council and Head of the Institute for Cell Therapy Research at Essen University Hospital, in recognition of this year’s award winner. Zeiser, Head of the Department of Tumor Immunology and Immune Regulation, and Head of the Zeiser Laboratory at the Department of Internal Medicine I at Freiburg University Hospital accepted the award on 15 April 2024 in the presence of doctors and guests from all over the world at the annual EBMT (European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation) meeting in Glasgow. At the ceremony, four outstanding young scientists in the field of blood cancer therapy were also awarded the highly coveted DKMS John Hansen Research Grant 2024.

“Zeiser is one of the most internationally renowned scientists in the field of allogeneic stem cell transplantation, and he has decisively advanced our understanding of the mechanisms of Graft-versus-Host disease (GvHD),” said Prof Fleischhauer at the presentation of the DKMS Mechtild Harf Science Award, which comes with 10,000 Euro. “The new therapeutic principles based on his findings in the treatment of this serious complication are a prime example of successfully implementing fundamental research findings to improve patient care.”

New therapy to counter life-threatening immune recations

For the majority of patients with acute leukemia, an allogeneic blood stem cell transplant remains the only hope of a cure. However, the therapy is associated with risks: After the transplantation, around one in two patients experiences a life-threatening immune reaction known as Graft-versus-Host disease (GvHD). In this case, certain cells (T cells) in the donor’s transplant recognize the recipient’s cells or organs as foreign and cause damage to them. GvHD triggers painful inflammation in various organs. Around half of GvHD patients do not respond to standard immunosuppressive therapies, such as cortisone, and for a long time, no alternative treatment was available. This has changed thanks to the work of Prof Zeiser and his team. Through detailed research into the disease processes, they recognized that an active substance from the Janus kinase inhibitor family can inhibit the inflammatory messengers that occur in GvHD. With the help of an already-approved cancer drug, the undesired reaction can be mitigated and partially prevented. The results of an initiated international multicentric phase-III study led to the approval of Ruxolitinib for the treatment of acute and corticosteroid-refractory GvHD.

Through further research, Zeiser and his team were able to prove that the acute immune reaction after a transplant often begins in the intestine, as it loses its barrier function. “Our analyses showed that blood cancer cells can influence and even switch off the function of immune cells with the help of lactic acid. We now want to investigate exactly how these processes take place. We aim to find new, targeted therapies that can prevent serious complications after a stem cell transplant,” says Zeiser, who is also the spokesperson for the Collaborative Research Centre 1479 OncoEscape and a member of the Cluster of Excellence CIBSS (Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies).

How young scientists help to improve blood cancer treatment

During the ceremony, four outstanding fellows were also announced as the recipients of the prized DKMS John Hansen Research Grants 2024: Livius Peter, MD (Charité, University Hospital Berlin, Germany), Tobias Wertheimer, MD (University of Freiburg, Germany), Senthil Bhoopalan, MD, PhD (Memphis, USA), and Nicoletta Cieri, MD, PhD (Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, USA). All four of these excellent young scientists are currently working on research priorities in the field of blood cancer therapy. These include the early diagnosis of disease relapses, the development of a GvHD prognosis tool, cellular interactions between immune and leukemia cells, as well as rare diseases such as Diamond-Blackfan anemia (DBA). “We are convinced that supporting young medical and scientific talent is a valuable investment in the future,” emphasized Prof Dr Marcel van den Brink, Chairman of the DKMS Medical Advisory Board. With the DKMS John Hansen Research Grant, up to four young scientists are given the opportunity each year to advance their research projects in the field of stem cell transplantation and cell therapy for blood cancer. The grant awards recipients 240,000 Euro over three years. Information on the call for applications and the application process for the DKMS John Hansen Research Grant is available here.

PARIS, FRANCE (19th April 2024 ) – Sonio, the MedTech company specializing in women’s and children’s health, today announces the appointment of a new Scientific Advisory Board Member, Dr Yinka Oyelese, following their FDA Clearance in the US in 2023.

Currently serving as the Director of Obstetric Imaging at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School in Boston, MA, Dr. Oyelese has over 37 years of experience in the medical field and specializes in high-risk pregnancies. Following training in Nigeria, he moved to London, where in the 1990s, he worked at St. George’s Hospital, London, under such ultrasound luminaries as Professors Stuart Campbell, Yves Ville, Tom Bourne, and Christoph Lees. He completed an OBGYN residency at Georgetown University Hospital and fellowship training in Maternal-Fetal Medicine at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School/Rutgers University. He regularly contributes to prominent journals and obstetrical textbooks and has authored editorials for The American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology. A trusted expert in the field, he lectures worldwide and is a peer reviewer for over 30 medical journals.

Dr. Oyelese joins current Sonio Scientific Advisory Board Members Pr. Rabih Chaoui, Pr. Richard Kwong Wai Choy and Pr. Mark D. Kilby are each medical leaders in their respective focuses.

Dr. Yinka Oyelese says “AI represents a transformative leap forward in ultrasound technology, with immense potential to enhance the quality, efficiency, and convenience of prenatal ultrasound. It dramatically expands the capabilities of obstetric ultrasound, with promising applications poised to benefit patients, sonographers, and physicians alike. I am thrilled to embark on this pioneering journey in partnership with Sonio, as we navigate the exciting possibilities this innovation holds.”

Celia Amabile, Head of Clinical at Sonio, says, “We are thrilled to announce our collaboration with Dr. Oyelese and welcome his expertise in US clinical practices to the Sonio Scientific Advisory Board. We are eager to share insights on the future challenges of prenatal ultrasound diagnosis with maternal healthcare providers across America. Together, we hope to share how AI can be leveraged for healthcare professionals of all experience levels.

Together, Sonio and Dr. Oyelese plan to make maternal healthcare more accessible to all women across the US. With over 20 years of experience as a leader in obstetric and gynecological ultrasound, Dr. Oyelese will lend his extensive expertise to the Sonio team. Their goal is to introduce revolutionary technology into the maternal healthcare sector, aiming to transform and enhance the quality of care provided to mothers across the nation.

Mumbai, 18th April 2024: MediBuddy, India’s largest digital healthcare platform, has announced significant progress towards EBITDA neutrality, reaching break-even with a marginal loss as it closed the previous fiscal year (FY 23-24). This will further strengthen MediBuddy’s position as India’s fastest-growing digital healthcare company, driven by its comprehensive service offerings and unwavering commitment to transforming healthcare accessibility across the nation.

MediBuddy’s user base has witnessed an impressive growth of 2.4X over the last 3 years, serving close to 3cr Indians with over 1cr subscribers. The company’s focus is now on exploring M&A opportunities in key healthcare areas such as chronic disease management, mental health, diabetes, women’s care, and weight management, backed by an $18 million capital pool dedicated to these investments.

Satish Kannan, Co-founder and CEO, MediBuddy said “MediBuddy is leading a healthcare revolution in India by prioritising customer-centric, technology-driven solutions. We empower doctors through our platform, offering accessible care via video consultations, hospital visits, clinics, pharmacy deliveries, and diagnostic services. By leveraging technology, MediBuddy’s platform enhances doctor-patient interactions. This commitment to innovation is fueling our remarkable growth and expanding healthcare access nationwide.”

MediBuddy has successfully integrated vHealth, a recent acquisition (in 2023), significantly broadening its reach, particularly in tier two and tier three areas, and enabling the platform to cater to a wider range of customers.

With a rapidly expanding network of over 90,000+ doctors across 22+ specialties, 7,100+ hospitals, and clinics, over 5,000+ diagnostic centers, and 2,500+ pharmacies, MediBuddy has solidified its position as a holistic healthcare solution provider. Additionally, to further enhance its diagnostic capabilities and service offerings, MediBuddy has also on-boarded over 10,000+ hospitals and diagnostic centers for all radiology and pathology investigations.

These impressive metrics have set the stage for continued growth in the future, underscoring MediBuddy’s ambition to expand its market share in the rapidly evolving digital healthcare industry.

New Delhi, 16th April 2024: Clensta, India’s first personal care brand infused with natural ingredients and backed by technology, through its new Rosemary range, delivers 99% less hair fall, up to 2x stronger, and 3x shinier hair with minimized breakage after only a few washes*.

Formulated with rosemary oil, biotin, and argan oil, the Rosemary Range has Rosemary Hair Fall Control Shampoo, Conditioner, Hair Oil, and Hair Mask which are designed to strengthen hair, and reduce breakage and hair fall.

The effectiveness of Clensta’s Rosemary range lies in its key stimulating ingredients. The range harnesses the natural benefits of rosemary and the strength-boosting power of biotin and argan oil to give users healthier, fuller-looking hair. Powered by Clensta’s proprietary STAR Technology, which ensures active ingredients reach beneath the upper layer of the skin, the Clensta product range has proven to give long-lasting results.

Rosemary’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties stimulate hair growth, reduce hair fall, and soothe the scalp. Biotin, on the other hand, minimizes breakage and fosters hair growth; hence strengthening hair follicles to make them look fuller and thicker. When combined, all these ingredients help your hair get nourished from roots to ends, all while promoting new hair growth and reducing hair fall. The range is also dermatologically tested, paraben-free, sulfate-free, and cruelty-free.

“We’ve designed Clensta’s Rosemary Hair Care Range to be gentle and effective for all hair types,” added Ashish Mishra, Co-founder & CBO, of Clensta. “Whether you have fine, thick, curly, or straight hair, Clensta delivers the targeted hair care benefits you need for healthier, stronger, and shinier hair. With Clensta, you can trust that your hair receives nothing but the best.”

The Rosemary Hair Care Range includes:

1. Rosemary Hair Fall Control Shampoo: This nourishing shampoo harnesses the hair and scalp, promoting healthy hair growth, infused with Rosemary and Biotin, the ingredients work together to stimulate hair growth and nourish the scalp. Rosemary’s stimulating properties promote hair growth and reduce hair fall, while biotin minimizes breakage and adds shine. This synergistic effect leaves your hair stronger, healthier, and more radiant. Retailing at only INR 349/-, the shampoo delivers a range of benefits including reducing hair fall by 99%, promoting hair growth, resulting in 2x stronger hair, nourishing hair follicles, minimizing breakage, and adding 3x shine.

2. Rosemary Hair Fall Control Conditioner: This conditioner provides deep nourishment to strengthen hair, enhances shine, imparts an invigorating rosemary fragrance, and ensures tangle-free, smooth hair. This conditioner promotes its benefits through the combined effects of rosemary and biotin, working together to nourish and strengthen the hair. Priced only at INR 349/-, the conditioner’s formula also includes natural oils and butters that moisturize and smooth the hair cuticle for enhanced shine and manageability.

3. Rosemary Hair Growth Oil With 1% Argan Kernel Oil & 1% Vitamin E: A powerful product for increased hair development and health, this oil is enriched with rosemary, argan oil and vitamin E to make your hair thicker, help it grow and keep your scalp healthy. Retailing only at INR 419/-, this Clensta oil makes your hair three times stronger and helps it grow faster than before. Additionally, this hair oil keeps the scalp healthy by reducing both dandruff and itchiness. It is a unique kind of oil that penetrates deeply into the pores which nourish the follicles from within thus promoting overall hair health.

4. Rosemary Hair Fall Control Mask: This intensive mask is a rosemary-powered treatment that deeply hydrates, strengthens hair, promotes a healthier scalp, and provides safe and effective care with its natural formulation. This Clensta mask works its magic with deep penetration for intense hydration and nourishment, harnessing the power of rosemary to strengthen hair, promote growth, and soothe the scalp. It soothes the scalp to alize dandruff and itching, and enhances natural beauty through its effective and safe formulation. Priced at INR 499/-, this hair mask is all in all an easy-to-use formula that effortlessly enhances your hair’s health and beauty naturally.

Chennai, 16th April 2024: Apollo Proton Cancer Centre (APCC), South East Asia’s first and largest proton therapy center, successfully treated a rare skull base tumor in a 30-year-old athlete from Bahrain. Led by Dr. Joy Varghese, Senior Consultant – Neurosurgeon & Neuro-Interventional Surgeon, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, Chennai, and Dr.Venkat Karthikeyan, Senior Consultant – ENT Skull Base Surgeon, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, Chennai, the team carried out the complex surgery which spanned over 26 hours, highlighting the center’s unwavering commitment to delivering world-class healthcare solutions.

The young woman, an executive at a prominent company and an athlete, was presented with alarming symptoms including two episodes of blackout within a month, loss of sensation around the right ear, and weakness in her right shoulder, particularly noticeable during her athletic pursuits as a triathlete.

Upon thorough radiological imaging, medical experts identified a tumor of moderate size located perilously close to the brainstem, in the right jugular fossa along the skull base. The tumor posed significant challenges due to its location, compressing major blood vessels and impinging on crucial nerves responsible for various functions including swallowing, speaking, and shoulder movement.

Adding to the complexity of the case, angiography revealed an absent venous system on the left side, necessitating meticulous planning to ensure the preservation of the patient’s only jugular vein on which the tumor is piggybacked, crucial for her survival.

Dr. Joy Varghese, Senior Consultant – Neurosurgeon & Neuro-Interventional Surgeon, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, Chennai, elaborated on the challenges faced during the intricate procedure. “Our primary objective was to remove the tumor while preserving the vital jugular vein intact. This required meticulous dissection and careful management of the surrounding nerves and blood vessels.”

Further, he said that a continuous nerve monitoring and extreme pre-surgical planning were instrumental in achieving the desired outcome for the patient.

The multidisciplinary team employed advanced techniques including sophisticated radiological imaging, per-operative electrophysiological monitoring [ to know the integrity of nerves while operating] and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) to map out the vascular anatomy and execute precise microsurgical excision, ensuring optimal outcomes for the patient.

Dr. Venkat Karthikeyan, Senior Consultant – ENT Skull Base Surgeon, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, Chennai said, “Post-surgery, the patient experienced remarkable improvement in her condition, with restored speech and swallowing functions, and no recurrence of shoulder weakness. While mild facial weakness was anticipated, she is currently on a path of steady improvement.”

Abida Hussain (name changed on request) said, “The doctors at APCC explained the process step-by-step and a clear picture was provided as far as the procedure was concerned. Along with these details, we were also told about the possible risk factors and the potential complications we may encounter but, I was not afraid as I had the confidence and trusted their expertise.”

Histopathological examination revealed a schwannoma, a rare type of tumor originating from the nerve sheath at the skull base. The patient will continue to receive close follow-up care and rehabilitation to support her ongoing recovery journey.

The successful treatment of this challenging case underscores the dedication and expertise of the medical professionals at Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, Chennai, reaffirming the region’s position as a hub for advanced healthcare solutions.

New Delhi, India –16th April 2024 – Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC) successfully concluded the 29th Annual Conference of the Association of Medical Physicists of India (Northern Chapter). Themed “Technological Advancements: Connecting Roots to Future in Cancer Cure,” the event was a critical platform for addressing the escalating cancer cases in India through the lens of advanced medical physics.

The conference spotlighted the crucial role of medical physicists in revolutionizing cancer care through cutting-edge technologies and innovative research. With cancer cases on the rise in India, the application of new technologies, precision, and effective procedures was emphasized as essential for enhancing diagnostic accuracies and treatment efficacies. Renowned speakers from leading institutions globally, including AIIMS and IIT Delhi, shared insights into the latest advancements and the dynamic future of oncological practices.

Dr. D.S. Mehta, Professor at the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, and one of the guest speakers showcased collaborative research in advanced diagnostic tools that employ optical imaging combined with artificial intelligence to achieve early cancer detection. Dr. Anil Agarwal, Medical Director at G B Pant Hospital and the chief guest, highlighted the vital contributions of medical physicists in improving outcomes for cancer patients. “The evolving role of medical physicists is instrumental in our fight against cancer, especially as we face a rising tide of cases in India,” he remarked.

Dr. Munish Gairola, Director of Radiation Oncology at RGCIRC and the organizing committee chairman, expressed his satisfaction with the event’s success. “This conference has not only set a new benchmark for future forums in the field of medical physics but also outlined clear, actionable strategies to combat the rising incidence of cancer in India through technological innovation. Our collective expertise and commitment to innovation are not just addressing the challenges we face today—they are paving the way for a future where advanced, precise, and compassionate care becomes the norm” he stated.

Over the two-day conference, discussions covered a broad spectrum of topics, from AI integration in diagnostic processes to the latest developments in proton therapy and high-precision radiotherapy techniques. These discussions underscored the need for a multi-faceted approach to cancer treatment, blending traditional medical practices with futuristic technologies to improve patient outcomes across India.

Dr. Ajay Srivastava, Chairman of AMPI-NC and a professor of medical physics at LLRM, Meerut, added, “This conference has once again illuminated the critical role of medical physics in the vanguard of cancer treatment. As we unite the brightest minds in the field, our discussions transcend traditional boundaries, merging cutting-edge technology with clinical precision to forge new pathways in cancer care. The overwhelming participation and rich dialogues here not only reinforce our mission but invigorate our collective resolve to transform patient outcomes through innovation and collaboration.”

Dr. M.K. Semval, President of AMPI-NC, also praised the vital role of Medical Physicists in ensuring the safe and precise application of ionizing radiation for diagnosing and treating cancer.

Dr Manindra Bhushan Mishra, Chief Medical Physicist & Radiation Safety Officer (RSO), and Organizing Secretary of AMPI-NC CON 2024 expressed gratitude to the medical fraternity for their participation and said, “There is a shared commitment to carry forward the knowledge and insights gained, pushing the boundaries of physics and contributing to further advancements in the field.”

The conference also served as a collaborative hub, fostering relationships and setting the stage for future partnerships aimed at combating cancer more effectively. With the participation of experts from various disciplines, the event highlighted the interdisciplinary nature of modern medical treatments and the global effort required to address cancer.

As the curtains fall on AMPI-NC CON 2024, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC) renews its commitment to spearheading advancements in cancer care, inspired by the pioneering spirit of the medical physics community. The insights garnered from this conference are expected to influence cancer treatment protocols and pave the way for new research initiatives, helping to tackle India’s growing cancer crisis.

Gurugram, 15th April 2024: In a pioneering effort to cater to women’s health-related challenges, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram today launched a dedicated clinic for the diagnosis and treatment of menopausal healthcare for women. The clinic was inaugurated by Chief Guest Ms Suneeta Mukherjee, Former Health Secretary, Government of India. The clinic will offer various preventive health services such as pap smear tests, mammography, a transvaginal ultrasound, ultrasound of the entire abdomen, gynae consultation, etc. It would be operational on Fridays from 02:00 pm to 04:00 pm.

Most women experience menopause (a life stage marking the end of reproductive years) between the ages of 45 and 52 years as a natural part of biological aging. However, perimenopause – the transitional period can last for years before menopause and up to 1 year after cessation of periods. According to WHO, perimenopausal and postmenopausal symptoms can be disruptive to personal and professional lives, and changes associated with menopause will affect a woman’s health as she ages. Therefore, perimenopausal care plays an important role in the promotion of healthy aging and quality of life.

Speaking at the launch, Prof. Dr Suneeta Mittal, Senior Director and HOD, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram said, “As per reports, many women in the 40-45 age bracket have started experiencing early menopause and its accompanying symptoms of hot flushes, weight gain, mood swings, irregular bleeding, among others. With women facing a significant burden of various health issues and the launch of this clinic, women can get themselves treated for all health issues, encompassing everything from gynecological health, menopausal health, mental health, diet and weight control, heart, and bone health”

Suneeta Mukherjee, Former Health Secretary, Government of India said “Women make up 50 per cent of the global population, but tend to neglect their own health needs, especially when it comes to menopause. Empowering women starts with addressing their unique needs. Congratulations to Fortis Gurugram for launching a Dedicated Menopause Clinic by filling the crucial gap, by offering specialized preventive care and education, ensuring every woman’s well-being is a priority.”

Mahipal Singh Bhanot, Senior Vice President & Business Head at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram said, “We are happy to launch Maitri, Fortis Menopause Clinic, which is a unique step and the need of the hour. The clinic will cater to the needs of the female patients as they transition through this phase with the support of a dedicated multidisciplinary team who are there to guide the patient at every level”

15th April 2024, Bengaluru: The Board of Directors at Aster DM Healthcare Limited (“Company”), one of the largest integrated healthcare providers in India, has announced a Large Special Dividend of Rs.118/- per share on account of the receipt of proceeds from the sale of the GCC business. The special dividend will be paid within 30 (thirty) days from the date of the declaration i.e. April 23, 2024. This event will result in a significant distribution of ~80% of the consideration of USD 907.6 million as a dividend to its shareholders. Despite this large special dividend, the company will still retain INR~1500 Cr from the sale of GCC business in the reserves under its balance sheet.

The Company had recently concluded the separation of its India and GCC businesses, pursuant to which Affinity Holdings Limited (a wholly subsidiary of the Company) received a cash consideration of USD 907.6M.

The Moopen family continues to hold the 41.88% stake in the listed entity. Dr. Azad Moopen will remain the Founder Chairman and Ms. Alisha Moopen will remain a director on the board of the Company. The listed entity will be led by Dr. Nitish Shetty as Chief Executive Officer, who will focus on the growth of the India business, aimed at creating value for its shareholders.

Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare said, “The current Indian healthcare market looks promising and post segregation now, our efforts will be to dynamically increase our footprint in India. We are making the right investments in our people, innovation, and infrastructure to differentiate ourselves and create long-term value for all our stakeholders. The dividend to be paid is proof of our commitment to all shareholders. As the company progresses, it will continue to prioritize shareholder interests and make decisions in their best interest towards creating sustained long-term value.”

Dr. Nitish Shetty, CEO, Aster DM Healthcare, India said, “The last quarter saw us make significant progress in many aspects, demonstrating our execution strength. We aim to balance shareholder returns with future investments for sustained long-term growth. The dividend distribution plan aims to reward shareholders for their long-held trust and investment in the company. Aster DM Healthcare remains committed to transparency and regulatory compliance throughout the process.”

As the Indian entity is now separate from its GCC counterpart, the Company plans to add 1700 beds by FY27 through the organic route and will further look for expansion through the inorganic route as well. Through both greenfield and brownfield opportunities, the company aims to take its total bed tally in India to 6600+ in the next 3 years and scale up its labs and pharmacy business to emerge as the top 3 integrated healthcare providers in India. The plan will encompass a mix of brownfield and greenfield projects, including the upcoming Aster Capital in Trivandrum, and Aster MIMS Kasargod, and adding bed capacity to the existing hospitals. The Company will also be looking at potential markets such as Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh. The capital allocation for this expansion is in the range of 1000cr.

Chennai, 12th April 2024 – In commemoration of World Parkinson’s Day, MGM Healthcare, a multi-speciality quaternary care hospital in the heart of Chennai, conducted a highly informative and impactful awareness session aimed at educating the public about Parkinson’s disease. The event was conducted at MGM Healthcare with participation by neurology experts Dr. U.Meenakshisundaram, Director and Senior Consultant, Department of Neurology, MGM Healthcare, and Dr.Sreenivas U.M., Consultant, Department of Neurology, MGM Healthcare, along with Ms. Vijayshree, Chief Dietician, Department of Dietetics, MGM Healthcare and Dr. Rajendran AJ, Clinical Lead, Dept of Rehabilitation Medicine, MGM Healthcare to shed light on this disorder and how to cope with it.

Parkinson’s disease affects millions of people worldwide, with a rising incidence in India. Raising awareness about the disease, including its symptoms, mode of diagnosis, and treatment options is crucial. The awareness session was presented by renowned neurologists from MGM Healthcare, who shared insights into the latest advancements in Parkinson’s research, treatment options, and strategies for improving the quality of life for patients.

The awareness session also highlighted the importance of early detection, proper medication adherence, and the role of physical therapy and lifestyle modifications in managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s.

The Welcome address for the Parkinson’s awareness day was delivered by Dr. U.Meenakshisundaram, Director and Senior Consultant, Department of Neurology, MGM Healthcare, following which a yoga exercise session was conducted, to help people with Parkinson’s to improve their balance and mobility.

Dr.Sreenivas U.M., Consultant, Department of Neurology, MGM Healthcare, presented a short insight about the Parkinson’s Disease, including recent research and treatment developments. This was followed by a session on Nutrition for Parkinson’s by Ms. Vijayashree, Chief Dietician, Department of Dietetics, MGM Healthcare.

The last session was on Innovative Exercise Methods for Parkinson’s Management by Dr. Rajendran AJ, Clinical Lead, Dept of Rehabilitation Medicine, MGM Healthcare, which

Dr. U.Meenakshisundaram, Director and Senior Consultant, Department of Neurology, MGM Healthcare shared his thoughts on the awareness program: “MGM Healthcare is honoured to contribute towards raising awareness about this challenging neurological condition. Through our awareness session, we aim to empower the patients with knowledge and support about Parkinsons. We believe that together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by Parkinson’s disease.”

As part of its ongoing commitment to neurological care, MGM Healthcare plans to continue organizing educational initiatives and support programs for patients affected by Parkinson’s disease.