Category health

Marengo Asia Hospitals Gurugram launched the Bone Marrow Transplant unit today to provide exceptional clinical excellence for patients in Gurugram and surrounding areas for bone-related diseases that have few options other than treatment with a bone marrow transplant. The team at the hospital leading the department is headed by Dr Meet Kumar, Clinical Director, Haematology & Bone Marrow Transplant, Marengo Asia Hospitals. He is supported by Dr Neeraj Teotia, Consultant- Pediatric Hemato-Oncology & Bone Marrow Transplant.

Marengo Asia Hospitals Gurugram has been consistently raising increased awareness and busting a few myths about blood-related disorders and the recent advancements made in the treatment of ailments. Highlighting the fact that hardly 10% of the population is aware of the symptoms and treatment modalities for blood-related ailments, the hospital has hosted several events to amplify the rising number of cases of blood-related diseases.

Dr Meet Kumar, Clinical Director, Haematology & Bone Marrow Transplant, Marengo Asia Hospitals Gurugram said “Blood disorders are one of the most fatal forms of cancer that severely impacts the quality of life. Raising awareness that these diseases can be permanently cured through Bone Marrow Transplant is crucial. With recent technological advancements, previously considered deadly blood disorders such as Acute Leukaemia, Multiple Myeloma, Aplastic Anaemia, Thalassemia Major, sickle cell disease, and various other cancers can now be successfully treated with Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) when conventional therapies like chemotherapy and radiotherapy fail.”

BMT is indicated for various conditions, including blood cancers, thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, immune deficiencies, aplastic anemia, certain autoimmune disorders, and, more recently, some solid Tumors such as brain tumors, neuroblastoma, and sarcomas. Common symptoms of blood disorders that require BMT include thalassaemic patients requiring monthly blood transfusions from the age of six months, aplastic anemia patients presenting with weakness, tiredness, persistent fever, or bleeding spots on the body, and blood cancer patients experiencing weakness, tiredness, increased infection risk, and bleeding.

With the progress in hematology and stem cell transplantation, Bone Marrow Transplants (BMT) have emerged as the ultimate life-saving remedy for even previously untreatable and potentially deadly conditions. The bone marrow plays a crucial role in blood cell production, and BMT involves the replacement of damaged or dysfunctional bone marrow with healthy cells. This procedure is broadly classified into two types: Allogenic, which utilizes a donor with compatible tissue, and Autologous, wherein the patient’s stem cells are used. Recent advancements have enabled the viability of haploidentical transplants, where successful transplantation is achievable even with a donor tissue match of just 50% or partial identity. Such innovations have significantly reduced the waiting time for many patients urgently requiring a BMT.

Dr. Raajiv Singhal, Managing Director & Group CEO, of Marengo Asia Hospitals said “As we inaugurate our Bone Marrow Transplant unit today, we embark on a journey of amplifying awareness regarding blood-related disorders and the advanced treatment modalities; a journey of hope, healing, and pioneering medical care; and to aid the common public with the right information and awareness. We reinforce our commitment to providing comprehensive healthcare solutions, pushing the boundaries to offer renewed hope to families battling bone marrow disorders. Through the advocacy of preventive measures/recognizing early symptoms and the dissemination of insights into modern and advanced treatment modalities, armed with super-specialized clinical excellence and skilled professionals, our mission encompasses mitigating the prevalence of this ailment.”

Neeta Rajwar, Facility Director, Marengo Asia Hospitals Gurugram said, “Marengo Asia Hospital remains resolutely committed to steering public health discourse through initiatives akin to this awareness assembly. By fortifying understanding and response to advanced treatment modalities to cure blood disorders, the hospital actively contributes to a more robust, enlightened, and resilient community, better equipped to counter the adversity of such deadly ailments.”

In India, approximately 2,500 to 3,000 Bone Marrow Transplants (BMT) are performed each year now in contrast to only 500, 3 years ago. However, the demand for BMT far exceeds the number of transplants being conducted. The scarcity is primarily due to a lack of awareness, inadequate infrastructure, and a shortage of skilled physicians. Bone Marrow Transplants (BMTs) are on a steady rise in India, with about 2,500 transplants being performed yearly unlike five years ago when it was less than 500. The number of BMT centers is increasing, and the rapid expansion of bone marrow transplant centers with enhanced infrastructure has been significant. This development has increased the accessibility of super-specialized clinical excellence and improved the efficiency of procedures with advanced techniques and technology.

Hyderabad, India. 4th April 2024:Aurigene Pharmaceutical Services Limited (Aurigene), a contract research, development, and manufacturing services organization, and Dr. Reddy’s Laboratoriescompany introduces Aurigene.AI, an AI and ML-assisted platform for accelerating drug discovery projects from hit identification to candidate nomination.

Aurigene.AI combines advanced physics-based simulation, generative and predictive AI models, and CADD (Computer-AidedDrug Design)in one platform, allowing users to pick the appropriate algorithms for a given application. The modular platform also consists of a meticulously curated database of 180 million compounds and 1.6 million validated bioassay data points. This database is ever-expanding and serves as training data for the platform.

Aurigene.AI is hosted on Google Cloud, which offers a scalable infrastructure for handling large datasets and efficient computation while safeguarding client data confidentiality.

Integrating AI and ML-based solutions with Aurigene’s core capabilities in chemical design, synthesis, and assessment in bioassays will facilitate faster development of novel therapeutics. Discovery scientists at Aurigene have validated the platform using a case study and demonstrated that the application of Aurigene.AI reduced the cycle time from chemical design to synthesis and testing by 35%.

Akhil Ravi, CEO, Aurigene Pharmaceutical Services Ltd., said,”We are committed to continually advancing our service experience and providing innovative end-to-end solutions to our global partners. Aurigene.AI is an important addition to our small molecule discovery offering and represents a data-driven approach to novel therapeutic development.”

Dr. Gayathri Ramaswamy, Global Head of Discovery Services, Aurigene Pharmaceutical Services Ltd.,said, “The addition of AI and iterative machine learning capabilities to our core expertise in synthesizing and testing molecules will significantly reduce the DMTA cycle time in the discovery process. Aurigene.AIaugments our core scientific capabilities in the small molecule discovery space and will serve as an efficient engine towards identifying a drug candidate.”

India, 4th April 2024: The saying “Health is wealth” highlights the importance of prioritizing our well-being, as it directly impacts our overall health and quality of life. This year’s World Health Day, observed annually on April 7 with the theme “My Health, My Right,” emphasizes the idea that taking care of our health is our own responsibility and a fundamental right. Maintaining good health requires prioritizing a balanced diet, as nutrition plays a crucial role. This highlights the significance of including foods such as green leafy vegetables, almonds, and seasonal fruits, which are rich in essential nutrients. Incorporating nutritious almonds into our diet can offer numerous health benefits, including improved blood sugar regulation, heart health, skin health, and weight management.

Almonds offer a comprehensive array of nutrients essential for maintaining optimal health. Packed with 15 essential nutrients, including vitamin E, magnesium, protein, riboflavin, and zinc, almonds serve as a vital support system for overall well-being. The magnesium, protein, and vitamins B2 and E contained in almonds contribute to sustained energy levels, while copper, zinc, folate, and iron aid in bolstering immunity. Moreover, these powerhouses of energy and nutrition play a pivotal role in weight management due to their satiating properties and help minimize the impact of carbohydrate foods on blood sugar levels.

Incorporating these nuts into a balanced diet can also lead to reductions in total and LDL cholesterol levels, as well as mitigating heart-damaging inflammation. Additionally, the healthy fats and vitamin E present in almonds impart anti-aging properties, nurturing skin health and radiance. So, integrating almonds into your daily diet can provide a multitude of health benefits, supporting overall well-being, vitality, and longevity.

Commenting on World Health Day, Ritika Samaddar, Regional Head – Dietetics, Max Healthcare, Delhi said, “In today’s hectic lifestyle, prioritizing our health can be a challenge, especially when it comes to maintaining a nutritious diet. This World Health Day, let’s pledge to prioritize our health as a fundamental right and commit to it wholeheartedly. I recommend embracing a clean and balanced diet while avoiding fried or junk food. Additionally, I strongly advocate for incorporating a handful of almonds into our daily diet, given their rich array of essential nutrients. Packed with vital nutrients such as protein, dietary fiber, healthy fats, vitamins E and B2, as well as minerals like phosphorus and magnesium, almonds serve as a convenient and wholesome snack.”

Bollywood actress Soha Ali Khan said, “In the fast-paced world of entertainment, managing job demands requires staying active and enthusiastic. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are vital, and incorporating almonds into my routine provides the necessary nutrition and long-lasting energy. Almonds serve as my go-to snack for myself and my family, offering versatility and essential nutrients. Consuming a handful of almonds regularly can enhance energy levels and focus, aiding in day-to-day tasks. Let’s prioritize our health this World Health Day by committing to clean eating, incorporating nutrient-rich foods like almonds, and engaging in regular physical exercise.”

Sheela Krishnaswamy, a renowned Nutrition and Wellness consultant said, “Almonds are a remarkable nutrient powerhouse, providing a wide array of health benefits that enhance our overall well-being. Packed with 15 essential nutrients, almonds help maintain healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels, among many other health advantages. By integrating almonds into our daily routines, we actively strive for better health, asserting our entitlement to a healthy lifestyle and resonating with the ‘My Health, My Right’ theme of World Health Day.”

On World Health Day, Yasmin Karachiwala, Celebrity Pilates Master Instructor emphasizes the importance of staying active and energetic. She said, “A balanced diet and consistent exercise are paramount for sustaining a healthy lifestyle. I strongly advocate engaging in physical activity at least five days a week to foster vitality and well-being. Additionally, prioritizing nutrient-dense foods, especially through home-cooked meals, is crucial. Incorporating foods like almonds, green leafy vegetables, and seasonal fruits enriches our diet with essential nutrients. Almonds serve as an ideal snack, aiding in hunger management and facilitating weight maintenance. These nuts boast a rich profile of 15 essential nutrients, including protein, zinc, magnesium, iron, and folate, among others.”

Popular South Indian actress Pranitha Subash said, “Incorporating almonds into my regular routine has noticeably enhanced my overall well-being and energy levels. These versatile nuts complement a variety of dishes and snacks, providing an extra nutritional boost to my diet. I encourage everyone to adopt healthier food habits, such as consuming handfuls of almonds, which can significantly improve their physical well-being and contribute to a more balanced lifestyle. Additionally, almonds have played a role in keeping me active throughout the day and maintaining radiant skin.”

On this World Health Day, let us reflect on the significance of taking charge of our health and making informed choices regarding our diet and eating habits. Embracing nutrient-dense foods, such as almonds, can particularly serve as a cornerstone in our pursuit of optimal health.

Mysore, 1st April 2024 Today, Apollo Pharmacy proudly inaugurated its 6000th store in JCST Layout, Kuvempunagar, opposite Kuvempunagar bus stop. The esteemed event was graced by Sri Sri Someshwaranatha Swamiji (Sri Adichunchanagiri Mahasamsthana Mutt) and Sri Arun Yogiraj (Sculpture Maestro), signifying a significant moment for Apollo Pharmacy’s dedication to providing accessible healthcare solutions to communities. Mr. N.G. Bharateesh Reddy, Vice President – Operations & Unit Head – Apollo BGS Hospitals, Mysuru, and Mr. P. Jayakumar, CEO of Apollo Pharmacies Limited, also attended the event, emphasizing the company’s commitment to its mission.

During the media address, Mr. P. Jayakumar, CEO of Apollo Pharmacies Limited expressed gratitude, stating, “As we celebrate the inauguration of our 6000th Apollo pharmacy in India, we extend our sincere thanks for the trust placed in us to safeguard your health and well-being over the years. Each new pharmacy marks a significant milestone in our ongoing dedication to improving lives and promoting wellness in every community we serve.”

With the addition of this new store, Apollo Pharmacy’s extensive network now spans 6000 outlets across the nation, effectively reaching over 19,000 pin codes through the Apollo 247 app. This expansion ensures seamless access to healthcare services for over 60 crore Indians.

Mumbai- For the past few centuries, tuberculosis has been the leading infectious disease in terms of morbidity and mortality. According to the data of the World Health Organization, based on the World TB Report, 64 percent of the world’s TB patients are found in seven countries namely India, Indonesia, China, Philippines, Nigeria, Pakistan and South Africa, and India ranks highest among them. India recorded the highest number of cases of tuberculosis (TB) in 2022, according to the World Health Organization’s Global TB Report 2023. 27 percent of the total tuberculosis patients in the world are in this country. Tuberculosis is a serious problem in India and it is truly a tragedy in the medical field that even after more than 70 years of India’s independence, such a large number of patients have been diagnosed with an infectious disease. Maharashtra, with a population of over 12 crores, is expected to have more than two and a half lakh B patients. Of these, nearly 1 lakh seek treatment from private doctors, and the rest from state and municipal-run health units. A total of 2 in Maharashtra in 2022. 33 lakh TB patients were found. Apart from this, the number of tuberculosis patients in small villages and remote areas is not included. Because society is still not talking freely about tuberculosis, the death rate has increased. Every minute one person dies due to tuberculosis in the world and India has the highest rate globally. Giving more information about this, Dr. Parthiv Shah, Chest Physician (Pulmonologist) from Apex group of Hospitals Mumbai, says, “Tuberculosis germs (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) are microscopic germs that are present in the respiratory secretions of infectious (sputum-infected) tuberculosis patients. It mixes with the air outside and enters the body of other persons through inhalation. Because we have open spitting that is universal and accepted, germs spread easily. Whether or not a person develops tuberculosis after being infected with tuberculosis depends on the person’s physical condition and nutrition. If the immune system is good, the disease does not occur even after infection. But if immunity is low, tuberculosis can develop immediately or after some time. The tendency to hide TB (tuberculosis) even today is found among educated and uneducated citizens. Public unsanitary conditions such as spitting, lack of sunlight in the house due to dense settlements, and poor condition of public toilets are many factors that contribute to the problem of tuberculosis. It is a fact that the increase in tuberculosis in any country means increased poverty, malnutrition, economic disparity, poor industrialization, and urbanization in that country.”

Apex Group of Hospitals is a chain of Hospitals managed and run by expert Medical Professionals with experience of 25 years. Currently, Apex group of Hospitals manages more than 350+ beds and provides qualitative healthcare services to the people of Mumbai and surrounding areas. Apex Hospitals is located in Borivali, Kandivali & Mulund.

Bengaluru, 28th March 2024: Bengaluru-based Trilife Hospital expanded its operations with the launch of an advanced 40-bed Neurorehabilitation and Sports Medicine Center dedicated to pioneering advancements in neurological and rehabilitation and Sports Medicine. Trilife Hospital also launched a new, state-of-the-art outpatient care unit that aims to revolutionize the outpatient experience for people visiting the hospital. Spread over a 60,000 sq ft area, this facility is equipped with the latest technology and instrumentation and is among the largest of its kind in the city. Consultancies for various specialties are spread over four floors for easy patient access. The hospital aims at doubling its consultant fraternity in the next fourteen months and will introduce robotics for rehabilitation in a few months’ time.

Speaking at the inauguration Dr. Shafiq A.M CEO and Co-founder, Trilife Hospital said, “This state-of-the-art outpatient care unit will serve as a gateway to comprehensive healthcare, both from the perspective of routine health checkups to specialized consultations. We have equipped each of our experts with medical devices that employ cutting edge technology to enhance our patient’s well-being, resilience, and vitality, while enhancing quality of life.”

“The incidence of strokes in younger patients has increased dramatically in the recent past and is one of the reasons we chose to introduce rehab as a full-fledged medical specialty. We have dedicated a complete floor to Neurorehabilitation and Sports Medicine that will provide services for in-patients, out-patients and those who require longer rehab time. The unit will be staffed by a team of experienced physiotherapists who will work with expert physiatrists and specialists in orthopedics, neurology, and pain management. Apart from providing medical aid to patients requiring sports medicine, the unit will also cater to patients ranging from neonate to geriatric, encompassing women’s health, both antenatal and postnatal. Home care physiotherapists will also be available. Each patient will have a dedicated program depending on his or her medical requirement”

The neurorehabilitation unit will have a 24-hour doctor and ICU backup, trained nurses and medical staff, and will function as a Hyper Dependency Unit (step-down ICU) with high-end equipment including robotics for upper and lower extremities, and Hyperbaric Oxygen (HBO2) therapy to monitor patient vitals. They will focus on care for cardio-vascular treatment, the incidence of strokes in youngsters, rehab for bedridden patients, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy.

The state-of-the-art outpatient department and rehab unit was inaugurated in the presence of eminent leaders including Shri Krishnabyre Gowda, Hon. Minister of Revenue, Government of Karnataka, Shri G.T. Devegowda, Member of Karnataka Legislative Assembly, Dr, Shafiq AM, CEO and Co-Founder, Trilife Hospital, Dr. Prashanth R, Director and Co-Founder, Trilife Hospital, Shri. Ramachandra Gowda, Director, and Co-Founder, Trilife Hospital among others.

By Dr. Pavan Yadav, Lead Consultant – Interventional Pulmonology & Lung Transplantation, Aster RV Hospital

Smoking was once considered to be a style statement in the form of cigars and hookahs as shown in various Hollywood and Bollywood movies. Though a statutory warning flash with every such picture depicting smoking unfortunately it is still increasing. The chemicals and toxins in tobacco smoke damage the delicate tissues of your lungs, leading to inflammation, irritation, and narrowing of the airways. Over time, this can cause permanent damage to the airways in your lungs, increasing your risk of developing serious lung disease.

Air pollution also increases the risk of lung infections like bronchitis and pneumonia. In all the Metropolitan cities and urban areas, its residents grapple with unique challenges impacting lung health. The city’s rapid urbanization brings forth concerning issues like air pollution, industrial emissions, and vehicular exhaust, all of which contribute to respiratory issues. Moreover, Bangalore’s lush flora adds to the pollen levels, triggering allergies and exacerbating respiratory concerns. Seasonal variations in air quality and construction dust further compound these challenges, making lung health a pressing concern for its inhabitants.

Misconceptions Around Smoking and Lung Health

Recently No Smoking Day was observed and it is vital to address common misconceptions surrounding smoking and lung health. Many mistakenly believe that “light” or “low tar” cigarettes are less harmful, or perceive hookahs and e-cigarettes as safe alternatives. However, nicotine’s addictive nature and smoking’s comprehensive harm to the body, not just the lungs, must be acknowledged. Moreover, awareness about the irreversibility of smoking-induced lung damage remains low. We do not have to wait for ‘No Smoking Day’ to create awareness about the ill-health smoking can cause. It’s crucial to emphasize that quitting smoking is pivotal for improving lung health and overall well-being. Support is available for those ready to embark on this journey towards a healthier life.

The Impact of Smoking on Lung Health Trends

Smoking remains a significant factor in the prevalence of lung diseases, including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and lung cancer, among Bangalore’s residents. Both direct smokers and those exposed to second-hand smoke face increased risks, underscoring the pervasive threat smoking poses to lung health. Beyond quitting smoking, Bangalore residents can take proactive measures to safeguard their lung health. Regular exercise, a diet rich in antioxidants, and avoiding exposure to pollutants are paramount. Additionally, wearing masks during high pollution days, using air purifiers indoors, and scheduling regular health check-ups can mitigate pollution-related lung damage.

Improving Lung Health for Former Smokers

For individuals who have smoked previously, prioritizing lung health entails quitting smoking and engaging in pulmonary rehabilitation. Breathing exercises and vigilant avoidance of environments with air pollutants or second-hand smoke exposure are crucial for maintaining and improving lung function. To mitigate the adverse effects of air pollution, Bangalore residents should stay informed about air quality indices and limit outdoor activities during high pollution levels. Using N95 masks, improving indoor air quality, and advocating for cleaner energy sources are indispensable strategies.

Government Initiatives and Public Health Programs

The Government of India, through initiatives like the National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP), educates the public about smoking dangers. Bangalore, equipped with robust healthcare infrastructure, offers smoking cessation clinics providing counseling, medication, and support for individuals aiming to quit smoking.

Advancements in Lung Health Treatment and Prevention

Recent advancements, such as lung transplantation and personalized medicine, offer hope for improved lung health outcomes. Additionally, developments in pulmonary rehabilitation contribute to better preventive measures against chronic lung conditions like severe asthma. Research indicates a correlation between smoking and the severity of COVID-19 cases. Smokers are more likely to develop severe disease and experience worse outcomes due to lung damage and compromised immune function.

Resources for Smoking Cessation and Lung Health Awareness

Bangalore residents seeking to quit smoking or learn more about lung health can avail themselves of resources like the National Tobacco Cessation Program, QUITLINE, mobile cessation programs, local hospitals’ smoking cessation clinics, online platforms, and community support groups. To conclude, prioritizing lung health requires collective efforts, including smoking cessation, pollution mitigation, and awareness campaigns. By taking proactive steps and leveraging available resources, Bangalore residents can safeguard their lung health and overall well-being.

Hyderabad: 25th March 2024: Despite common misconceptions, rheumatological diseases can also affect children, impacting their joints, muscles, skin, and even internal organs. However, in India, there is a severe lack of awareness regarding this issue. While in Western countries, studies indicate a prevalence ranging from 1/1000 to 4/1000 children, in India, there is a lack of epidemiological data. Nonetheless, estimations suggest that approximately 1.3 million children suffer from Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) and 200,000 from Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) alone.

While many of these conditions affect adults as well, children with rheumatic diseases require special care. Treatment necessitates the expertise of pediatric rheumatology specialists who understand the unique needs of young patients. Unfortunately, in India, diagnoses often occur after irreversible damage has already occurred due to a lack of awareness. This delayed diagnosis leads to worse outcomes for young patients, impacting their growth and causing permanent joint or organ damage.

To address this issue, World Young Rheumatic Diseases Day was celebrated at Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, Banjara Hills branch. The event aimed to raise awareness among parents, doctors, and primary practitioners about childhood rheumatic diseases. It emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and prompt referral to specialized paediatric rheumatologists to prevent delays. Ms Malavath Purna, the world-renowned mountaineer, and the youngest female to summit Mount Everest graced the event as the esteemed Chief Guest. She inspired hope and resilience among children suffering from rheumatic diseases.

Dr Anjani Gummadi, Paediatric Rheumatologist and Immunologist at Ankura Hospital for Women and Children highlighted the significance of early diagnosis and prompt treatment in enabling children to lead near-normal lives. She emphasized, “The only way to reduce the debility of rheumatic diseases in children is early diagnosis and prompt treatment by experts, which allows children to lead near-normal lives. Also, these children require close monitoring by the paediatric rheumatologists as these diseases tend to be progressive.”

Parents shared their experiences, expressing gratitude for the event, as many had experienced delays in diagnosis.

Fun activities and painting competitions engaged both kids and parents, fostering moments of joy and relief. Dr K.K. Durga Prasad, Medical Director and Senior Paediatrician at Ankura Hospital for Women and Children expressed satisfaction in connecting with families, children, and doctors, foreseeing a positive impact on understanding rheumatic diseases in children. He said, “I am extremely happy that we could connect with many families, children, and doctors today through this event. I am sure this will have a big impact on our understanding of rheumatic diseases in children.”

Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, March 11, 2024: FertiCARE IVF Centre in Vijayawada marked a significant milestone in its journey towards eliminating the stigma associated with infertility by hosting a heartwarming baby shower celebration. This event, held in honor of mothers-to-be who have successfully conceived through In vitro fertilization (IVF), coincides with the center’s first anniversary. 

Infertility remains a sensitive and often stigmatized issue in many societies, causing emotional distress and societal pressure for those experiencing it. In India, approximately 10-15% of married couples are affected by infertility, according to the Indian Society of Assisted Reproduction (ISAR). FertiCARE IVF Centre aims to challenge these societal norms by fostering a supportive environment where individuals and couples can seek fertility treatments without fear or judgment. 

Dr. Prathyusha Javadi, Clinical Head at FertiCARE IVF Centre, expressed her gratitude to the patients, staff, and community for their unwavering support throughout the centre‘s inaugural year. We have been able to bring the joy of parenthood to many lives in this one year through our expertise, commitment, and compassionate approach. Our mission at FertiCARE IVF Centre goes beyond just helping individuals conceive; it’s about empowering them to embrace their journey towards parenthood with confidence and dignity. 

The baby shower celebration serves as a testament to the triumphs of those who have overcome infertility with the help of advanced reproductive technologies offered at FertiCARE IVF Centre. The event not only celebrated the joyous journey towards parenthood but also highlighted the centre‘s commitment to providing compassionate care and personalized treatment options to its patients. 

FertiCARE IVF Centre offers a comprehensive range of fertility treatments, including Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), In vitro fertilization (IVF), Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), In vitro maturation (IVM), Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A), Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders (PGT-M), and Endometrial Receptivity Analysis (ERA). These advanced treatments are tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient, ensuring the highest chances of success. 

As part of the First Anniversary celebrations, FertiCARE IVF Centre is delighted to extend a special offer to its patrons. Until March 31^st, 2024, the centre is offering FREE Consultation, Scan, and IUI, along with an exclusive 50% discount on IVF procedures. This initiative reaffirms the center’s commitment to making fertility treatments more accessible and affordable for all. 

“We are thrilled to mark our First Anniversary by extending this special offer to our valued patients. It is our fervent hope that this gesture will empower more individuals and couples to take the first step towards fulfilling their dreams of parenthood,” said Dr. Prathyusha. 

FertiCARE IVF Centre invites the community to join them in celebrating life, love, and the journey towards parenthood. Dr Ujwala Jasti & Dr Sravani Reddy, Co-founders of FertiCARE Centre have participated in the celebrations.

New Delhi, 09 March, 2024: Vedanta’s BALCO Medical Centre (BMC), an emerging leader in India’s oncology space, has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian co-researchers in a team to receive the prestigious Cancer Grand Challenges Award. This recognition, with a substantial $25 million grant for cancer research, underscores BMC’s position as a pioneering institution in India’s oncology landscape. The recipient team PROSPECT, comprising of clinicians, advocates, and scientists from BALCO Medical Centre and other esteemed institutions around the world, will be addressing the critical issue of early-onset cancers challenge.

Ms. Jyoti Agarwal, Chairperson, Vedanta Medical Research Foundation, expressed her gratitude, stating, “We are honoured to have been chosen for this prestigious award, which significantly advances the battle against cancer. Over the past six years, at BMC, our leaders, employees, and stakeholders have worked tirelessly to ensure that we have access to the best technologies, and that our patients and communities feel safe and confident. With this support from Cancer Grand Challenges, our efforts are not only continued but also strengthened. With collaborative efforts, I am confident that we can positively contribute to the overall healthcare landscape.”

Team PROSPECT is one of five global teams being funded this year by Cancer Grand Challenges, which was founded in 2020 by Cancer Research UK and the National Cancer Institute US, to invite diverse world-class research teams to come together, think differently and take on some of cancer’s toughest challenges. The teams will be funded by Cancer Research UK, the National Cancer Institute, the Bowelbabe Fund for Cancer Research UK and Institute National Du Cancer through Cancer Grand Challenges with a total investment of $125m to tackle some of the toughest challenges in cancer research.

“Together with our network of visionary partners and research leaders, Cancer Grand Challenges unites the world’s brightest minds across boundaries and disciplines and aims to overcome cancer’s toughest problems,” said Dr. David Scott, Director of Cancer Grand Challenges. “With this investment, our largest to date, we continue to grow our global research community, and fund new teams that have the potential to surface discoveries that could positively impact cancer outcomes.”

Vedanta’s BALCO Medical Centre, a state-of-the-art tertiary care Oncology facility in Central India, has been at the forefront of cancer care, providing multidisciplinary treatment and support. The institution is recognized as a referral centre for advanced radiation therapy, brachytherapy, nuclear medicine, surgeries, chemotherapy, and many more. Since inception in March 2018, BMC has treated more than 37,000 patients. Additionally, the institution has received many certifications and accreditations including LEED certification, NABH, FSSAI, NABL, Nursing Excellence, CAHO certifications. This significant grant underscores BMC’s commitment to pioneering research and delivering innovative solutions to address critical healthcare challenges in India.

Dr. Bhawna Sirohi, Medical Director at Vedanta Medical Research Foundation (BALCO Medical Centre) and the lead principal investigator for PROSPECT-India study, says “The worrisome increase in colorectal cancers stresses the importance of early detection and lifestyle choices for prevention. There’s a dire need for cancer screening in high-risk areas to facilitate early diagnosis and prompt treatment, especially with the shifting demographics towards a younger population. This grant will speed up global cancer research, focusing on understanding the reasons behind the rise in early-onset colorectal cancer and strategies for prevention”.

Early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) is an important emerging global problem among individuals younger than 50 years. Team PROSPECT aims to address this by understanding the pathways, risk factors and molecules involved in its development. The team’s vision is to understand and ultimately try to reverse the network of causal factors throughout the life course that disrupts normal biological processes to promote EOCRC. The team will employ a disruptive, transdisciplinary approach spanning cells, individuals and populations to uncover the mechanisms linking lifetime exposures to early-onset colorectal cancer, and test new strategies to combat this cancer type.

Currently, Cancer Grand Challenges brings together 1,200 researchers and 16 teams from across the world to take on 13 challenges. The spirit of giving back is part of the Vedanta’s core values. This achievement brings the company closer to fulfilling the vision of contributing to the community and making a lasting impact on society.