Category health

Hyderabad, 25th Feb 2025: Thalassemia Sickle Cell Society (TSCS) a registered non-profit organization has today organized Telangana’s Biggest blood donation camp at Kings Palace, Gudimalkapur, Hyderabad. Akbaruddin Owaisi, MLA Chandrayangutta along with a few renowned personalities visited the blood donation camp and supported the cause. M A Aleem Baig, Joint Secretary – TSCS along with Abu Aimal and the dedicated staff of TSCS participated in the donation camp where the blood units collected are going to be used for Thalassemia patients, who need blood for every 15 days just to survive.

TSCS President Dr. Chandrakant Agarwal briefed Akbaruddin Owaisi & other guests, about the situation of Thalassemia in Telangana and the need of blood donors to come forward for transfusion of blood to Thalassemia patients. Ms. Ratnavali Kothapalli, Vice President – TSCS, Dr. Suman Jain, CEO – TSCS, Manoj Rupani were also part of the blood donation camp. The collected blood will be utilised for patients who need a blood transfusion at regular intervals. TSCS has also appealed to the Hon’ble MLA to help in releasing the G.O for mandatory antenatal test – HbA2 (which TSCS has been requesting) for every pregnant woman to help prevent the birth of Thalassemia Major Children.

Speaking on the occasion Dr. Chandrakant Agarwal, President – TSCS said, “We are really thankful to the 1955 donors who have come forward and donated blood to meet the blood requirement for Thalassemia patients. We are extremely honoured that Chandrayangutta MLA Akbaruddin Owaisi ji has visited the blood donation camp. We explained him about the situation of Thalassemia in our state & country and also urged him to encourge the need of blood donors to come forward and donate on a regular basis”.

Speaking about the blood donation camp Abu Aimal said “TSCS has been at the forefront in conducting mega blood donation camps in Hyderabad. We thank all the guests and donors who have extended their support to us and also promised to promote awareness of Thalassemia and its eradication”.

Dr. J V Srinivas, Lead Consultant – Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement, Aster RV Hospital

Bones make up the structural support for the body, allowing one to move freely, protecting the vital organs from injuries, and storing minerals like calcium. Maintaining good bone health is crucial particularly as you age, as it minimizes the risk of osteoporosis – a condition that weakens bones and makes them more prone to breaking from minor falls or injuries. However, these 5 lifestyle factors deteriorate bone health and increase the risk of osteoporosis.

Alcohol –

Excessive alcohol consumption can negatively impact bone health by interfering with the bone remodeling process, leading to decreased bone density and an increased risk of fractures; this happens primarily by inhibiting the activity of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for building new bone, while also disrupting the balance between bone formation and resorption, resulting in bone loss over time.

Soda –

Soda, particularly cola, can negatively impact bone health by potentially decreasing bone mineral density and increasing the risk of fractures due to the high phosphoric acid content which interferes with calcium absorption in the body, leading to a calcium imbalance and potential bone loss.

Excessive salt consumption –

Consuming too much salt raises the risk of osteoporosis and weakens bones. This is because it can result in a negative calcium balance by increasing the quantity of calcium excreted in urine. essentially, consuming too much salt can “wash” calcium out of the bones through the kidneys.

Smoking –

Smoking slows the healing process by lowering blood flow to the bones, muscles, and joints. The creation of osteoblasts, the cells that make bones, is slowed down by nicotine in cigarettes. Smoking impairs the body’s absorption of calcium, which is essential for healthy bones. Smoking can alter the hormone balance, particularly that of estrogen, which is crucial for bone growth and maintenance.

Poor diet habits –

A poor diet lowers calcium and vitamin D levels which can impair bone health and increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Furthermore, excess sugar raises cortisol levels, which have been connected to osteoporosis. A diet weak in protein will increase the risk of bone loss. Consuming excessive amounts of saturated fat can impair your body’s capacity to absorb calcium.

Bangalore, India 20th Feb 2025 – Bangalore Hospitals, a pioneer in advanced healthcare, proudly announces the launch of its state-of-the-art Dialysis Centre, designed to provide high-quality, safe, and comfortable dialysis care for patients with chronic kidney conditions.

The new facility, located in Tower Two of Bangalore Hospitals, features a dedicated VIP dialysis room, 24/7 accessibility, and the latest Fresenius dialysis machines, ensuring superior treatment standards. This expansion aligns with Bangalore Hospitals’ commitment to offering comprehensive, patient-centric healthcare solutions.

Dialysis patients often require treatment three times a week for four hours each session, making comfort and safety essential. The Bangalore Hospitals Dialysis Centre is designed to address these needs with aesthetic and functional enhancements. Patients will have access to spacious wide beds instead of standard recliners, private TVs for each patient, a dedicated VIP dialysis room with a private kitchen and seating area for family members, single-use consumables, and high-quality dialysate solutions to minimize infection risks. The center will also have 24/7 nephrology team supervision, ensuring immediate medical support in case of emergencies.

“Our goal is to provide a dialysis experience that is not only medically superior but also comfortable and stress-free for patients,” said Dr. Abhishek Mannem, Medical Director of Bangalore Hospitals.

The center adheres to global safety protocols, incorporating Fresenius dialysis machines, single-use tubing, and dialysate solutions to prevent cross-contamination, and regular serology testing to monitor patient health. Patients will also have access to customized packages and membership programs for affordable and seamless care.

Unlike standalone dialysis centers, this facility is integrated with Bangalore Hospitals’ main hospital, ensuring immediate access to ICU and emergency services if required. This eliminates delays in critical care, offering patients peace of mind during treatment.

Understanding the financial burden of long-term dialysis, the hospital offers custom patient packages for cost-effective care, insurance coverage and reimbursement options, and a location that reduces travel time for those requiring frequent sessions.

Since its establishment in 1991, Bangalore Hospitals has been a leader in innovative medical solutions. This new Dialysis Centre reflects the hospital’s mission of delivering global standards of care in India, bridging the gap between treatment protocols in the U.S. and India.

“Dialysis should not feel like a clinical burden. Our vision is to create an experience where patients feel at home—watching a movie, relaxing in a positive environment, and receiving world-class treatment,” said Dr. Lahari Surapaneni, CEO of Bangalore Hospitals.

Bengaluru, India – A 34-year, gentleman named Mr. Adan (name changed), hailing from Ghana, South Africa adhering to Jehovah’s beliefs, presented with symptoms of left-sided weakness persisting for a year and headaches worsening over the pasts eight months ago. The weakness affected his left upper and lower limbs progressively, leading to difficulty grasping objects with his left hand and walking difficulty. He had a seizure episode two months ago which worsened his headache and neurological deficits.

Mr. Adan was subsequently admitted to Sakra World Hospital in Bengaluru, where Dr. Arjun Srivatsa, Director & HOD – Institute of Neurosciences, Dr. Shylesh M P, Associate Consultant – Neurosurgery and their team, conducted a thorough examination followed by a panel of imaging and blood tests. The MRI Brain Contrast revealed a large 10x 9 cm tumor abutting the right side of the brain.

Dr. Arjun, Director & HOD – Institute of Neurosciences , Sakra World Hospital, explained, “A meningioma is a tumor that grows from the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord, called the meninges. A meningioma is not a brain cancer, but it may press on the adjacent brain, nerves and vessels and can cause trouble. Meningioma is one of the most common type of tumor that arises in the brain. Most meningiomas grow very slowly, however certain tumours can grow at a rapid rate and behave aggressively. They can grow over many years without causing symptoms. But sometimes, their effects on nearby brain tissue, nerves or vessels may cause serious disability. Meningiomas occur more often in women. They’re often found at older ages. But they can happen at any age and either sexes. Because most meningiomas grow slowly, often without symptoms, they do not always need treatment right away, instead, they may be watched over time. However large meningiomas causing compression of the brain require immediate attention”

Following the diagnosis of right parietal convexity meningioma, the patient underwent a successful craniotomy for tumor excision. Dr. Arjun stated “Since Mr. Adan being a follower of Jehovah’s sect and clearly against transfusion of blood or any forms of blood products like platelets, plasma etc., it is a challenging situation for the surgeons and the anesthetic team to handle the intraoperative blood loss. Meningiomas being highly vascular tumours tend to bleed profusely during the surgery hence a meticulous surgical technique and hemostasis has to be achieved during the surgery to minimize the amount of blood loss. This patient had a significant amount of bleeding during the surgery inspite of all the necessary precautions to minimize blood loss and had a significant dip in his hemoglobin levels. It was quite as task for us to remove the entire tumour amidst significant bleeding encountered during surgery. Yet, with best of our efforts the entire tumour was resected without much complications. Patient recovered well without any neurological deficits, however his hemoglobin level were well below the expected levels. Despite encountering significant post-operative anemia, we were able to manage without any blood transfusion. “

He further added, “Significant advancements in anesthesia and surgical techniques have enabled the minimization of blood loss and the avoidance of blood transfusions during procedures which is specifically benificient in such patient’s who are followers of the Jehovah sect”

The patient improved and was weaned off the ventilator, though he had generalized weakness, dizziness and was severely pale because of low hemoglobin levels. We started him on Human recombinant Erythropoietin which is a medicine used to boost up the hemoglobin levels. Patient began to show signs of improvement, started eating normally, and was initiated on neurorehabilitation and physiotherapy. At the time of discharge patient was back on his feet, with no neurological deficits, feeding well and returned back to his country with a smile on his face”

Dr. Arjun stressed, “Blood loss is a known thing in huge complex meningiomas. Operating on Jehovah’s witness patients demands sensitivity to their beliefs. Timely diagnosis and prompt intervention are keys for a good functional post-operative outcome.

“After surgery,” said Mr. Adan, “I felt relieved as my headaches decreased and I regained strength and mobility. I’m grateful for the successful outcome and the team’s understanding of my decision to avoid a blood transfusion.”

Chennai, February 18th, 2025: In a significant step towards community welfare, OPG Foundation, part of OPG Group, India’s leading power generator, has launched a free meal distribution program at The Cancer Institute WIA, Adyar, Chennai. This initiative is part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) under its flagship program ‘Table of Care’, led by the OPG Foundation, the social impact arm of OPG Group.

The launch event was graced by Hon’ble Justice AD Jagadish Chandra, Judge, Madras High Court, as the Chief Guest, who lauded the initiative and its positive impact on the community.

The Cancer Institute (WIA), established in 1954, is one of India’s premier oncology centers dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable cancer care. With a strong focus on research, early detection, and treatment, the institute has been at the forefront of cancer care in India. It offers comprehensive services, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical oncology, while also emphasizing patient welfare through various support programs.

The program underscores the OPG Foundation’s commitment to addressing societal needs and supporting those facing challenging circumstances. The meals, carefully prepared to meet nutritional standards, will be distributed free of charge at a dedicated counter within the hospital premises.

Speaking about the initiative, Mrs. Sudha Gupta of OPG Foundation said: “At OPG Foundation, we believe that no one should go hungry, especially those going through challenging times. The ‘Table of Care’ led by the OPG Foundation is our way of standing by families who are facing emotional and financial distress. Providing nutritious meals is a small yet meaningful way to offer comfort and support when it’s needed most. We remain committed to expanding our social impact efforts and finding more ways to give back to the community.”

This marks the fifth free meal program by the OPG Foundation. Currently, the company operates four meal distribution centers in and around its facility in Gummidipoondi, serving nearly 700 meals daily. Over the past three years, the ‘Table of Care’ initiative has benefited nearly three lakh people.

The director of the Cancer Institute, expressed gratitude for the program, stating: “The families of our patients often endure emotional and financial stress during their hospital visits. This thoughtful initiative by the OPG Foundation will go a long way in providing comfort and support to these individuals. We are grateful for this collaboration and applaud their dedication to social responsibility.”

New Delhi, February 18, 2025 – CanSupport, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to providing palliative care services for people with cancer and other serious illnesses hosted the 18th edition of its flagship event, ‘Walk for Life – Stride Against Cancer,’ at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi, to commemorate World Cancer Day. The event witnessed an overwhelming response, bringing together participants from diverse backgrounds, including cancer survivors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, students, corporate teams, and expatriates, all united in their commitment to raising awareness about cancer and showing solidarity with those affected by the disease.

Since its inception in 2008, the Walk for Life has become Delhi’s largest cancer awareness walkathon. This year’s event marked a significant milestone with the introduction of a 5 km Run alongside the traditional 3 km Walk, catering to fitness enthusiasts and further amplifying the impact of the cause. Participants walked and ran with passion and determination, carrying banners and messages of hope, resilience, and the importance of early detection and palliative care.

In her message to the participants Harmala Gupta, Founder-President of CanSupport said “It is a time to share experiences, meet with friends, both old and new, and honor those who are living with cancer as well as remember those who are no longer with us. More than anything else, however, it is a call to urgent action.

We know that cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide and that it is on the march in our part of the world. What we also know is that it can be kept at bay if we adopt a healthy lifestyle. Besides eating right, regular exercise is one of the most powerful weapons we have and the Walk is to remind us that we must use it for our benefit.”

The other dignitaries present at the event included Dr Pramod Kumar Julka, Vice-Chairman Oncology, Max Institute of Cancer Care, Former Ambassador of the US to India David Mulford and his wife and the patron of the Walk for Life event Jeannie Mulford.

Over the years, the Walk has grown in popularity, with participation increasing annually. Over 4,000 walkers participated in the event and reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the cause.

Members of the Royal Mavericks Club joined the Walk to support cancer patients and rode with them. Performances from the BSF Band, Music Factory, Delhi Drum Circle, and Sai Aerobics kept the walkers entertained as they arrived at the venue.

Dr. Raj Nagarkar, Managing Director and Chief of Surgical Oncology and Robotic Services, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre, Nashik

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the field of medicine, and one of the areas where it is making the most significant impact is cancer treatment. Precision medicine, which tailors medical treatment to individual patients based on their genetic makeup and other factors, is helping doctors provide more personalized and effective care. Let’s explore how AI is enhancing precision medicine for cancer and changing the way we approach treatment.

AI and Early Detection
AI-powered tools are being used to enhance early cancer detection. By analyzing medical images, AI can identify subtle patterns in mammograms, CT scans, MRIs, and other diagnostic images that might be missed by the human eye. This technology allows for earlier and more accurate detection of tumors, which is crucial for successful treatment outcomes.
For example, AI algorithms can analyze chest X-rays to detect lung cancer at its earliest stages, even before symptoms appear. Early detection gives patients a better chance of undergoing less invasive treatments and achieving a positive prognosis.

Improving Diagnostics and Biomarker Discovery
AI is also helping researchers discover new biomarkers, which are biological indicators of disease. By analyzing large sets of data from genetic studies, AI can help identify patterns that may lead to the discovery of new biomarkers associated with different types of cancer. These biomarkers can then be used for more accurate diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment planning.
AI can also improve the accuracy of genetic testing by analyzing complex data from genomic sequencing. This can reveal mutations in a patient’s DNA that may make them more susceptible to cancer, allowing doctors to personalize treatment plans based on these findings.

Personalizing Treatment Plans
One of the key goals of precision medicine is to tailor treatment plans to the individual. AI plays a crucial role in helping doctors analyze patient data, such as genetic profiles, medical histories, and clinical information, to create highly personalized treatment regimens.
For example, AI can predict how a cancer will respond to different treatments based on a patient’s unique genetic makeup. This allows for more targeted therapies that are more likely to be effective and have fewer side effects. AI can also help match patients with clinical trials that are most likely to benefit them, further improving treatment outcomes.

Optimizing Drug Discovery
Developing new cancer drugs is a time-consuming and expensive process. However, AI is accelerating drug discovery by predicting how different compounds interact with cancer cells. By analyzing large datasets and using machine learning algorithms, AI can identify promising drug candidates much faster than traditional methods.
AI is also being used to design drugs that specifically target cancer cells while sparing healthy cells, and reducing side effects. This targeted approach is a hallmark of precision medicine and holds great promise for creating more effective cancer treatments.

Monitoring Cancer Progression
Once treatment begins, AI can help doctors monitor how well a cancer is responding to therapy. Machine learning algorithms can analyze medical data, including lab results, imaging scans, and patient-reported outcomes, to track changes in the cancer’s size, shape, and genetic profile over time.
This continuous monitoring allows for more timely adjustments to treatment plans, ensuring that the most effective therapies are used as the cancer evolves. AI also helps doctors predict how a cancer may relapse, allowing for proactive interventions before the disease progresses further.

Enhancing Patient Outcomes
AI’s ability to analyze vast amounts of data quickly and accurately can significantly enhance patient outcomes. By identifying patterns in patient data, AI can help doctors make more informed treatment decisions and predict which patients are more likely to respond to specific therapies.
Additionally, AI-powered virtual assistants and apps are helping cancer patients manage their treatment regimens and follow-up appointments. These tools can provide patients with personalized guidance, reminders, and educational resources, improving their overall experience and engagement with the treatment process.

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing precision medicine for cancer by improving early detection, optimizing treatment plans, and enhancing patient outcomes. By harnessing the power of AI, doctors are able to provide more personalized, effective care, and patients are benefiting from better treatment options with fewer side effects. As AI continues to evolve, its role in cancer treatment will only become more significant, offering hope for more targeted, successful therapies in the fight against cancer.

Chandigarh, February 17, 2025 – India’s care sector is at a critical juncture, requiring a strong workforce to meet both national and global demands. Speaking at the summit on ‘ Transforming the Future of the Skilled Workforce in the Care Sector ’ organized by NSDC International in Chandigarh, Shri VK Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog emphasized the need to expand skilling initiatives beyond traditional medical education and strike a balance between quality and quantity.

Talking about skilling initiatives, Mr. Paul said that NSDC International is playing a vital role in this endeavor, ensuring that care professionals trained in India are globally employable. He highlighted the importance of developing a curriculum, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and scaling up skill-based training programs to address workforce shortages, including in specialized areas such as geriatric care. “ Private sector support is essential to bridge the skill gap. With structured policies and strong industry-academia partnerships, India can grow its healthcare skilling ecosystem and emerge as a major contributor to the global workforce,” he added.

The summit was attended by vice-chancellors of 50 institutions and about a dozen AIIMS chiefs working towards a strong healthcare ecosystem.

Mr. Paul further added , “ India’s healthcare workforce is a vital asset for both the nation and the world. With the growing global demand for skilled professionals , structured skilling initiatives play a vital role in equipping our workforce with the expertise required to meet international standards. NSDC International’s efforts in developing a highly trained care talent pool have contributed significantly to this vision , enabling professionals to excel in diverse healthcare environments. By strengthening skill development and placement pathways , we are not only meeting workforce requirements domestically , but also reinforcing India’s position as a trusted provider of skilled care professionals across the globe.”

Speaking on this , Alok Kumar, CEO, NSDC International said , “ With a projected global shortage of 15 million caregivers by 2030 , the demand for skilled professionals is at an all-time high. Countries such as Germany , Japan and Canada have seen the number of international caregivers grow by over 30% in the last two years alone. India , with its young and skilled workforce , has the potential to bridge this gap. At NSDC International , we are committed to developing a globally competent caregiver workforce by aligning skilling programmes with international recognition , streamlining certification processes and integrating cultural adaptability training. By fostering strategic global partnerships , we aim to establish India as a trusted provider of skilled care professionals , creating dignified employment opportunities while strengthening the global healthcare system.”

The summit witnessed meaningful discussions on policy recommendations and strategic initiatives aimed at building a sustainable and future-ready caregiver workforce. A major highlight was a dialogue between vice-chancellors and directors of leading healthcare institutions, which discussed the critical role of education in bridging the shortage of healthcare workers. By strengthening collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers, the summit set the stage for innovative solutions that will enhance skilling, workforce mobility, and India’s contribution to the global healthcare ecosystem.

National, February 17, 2025: Apollo Hospitals, Asia’s foremost integrated healthcare services provider, today announced a landmark achievement of 25,000 successful organ transplants across its hospital network. This remarkable milestone puts the spotlight on Apollo Hospitals’ unwavering commitment to saving lives and transforming healthcare through innovation, expertise, and compassionate care. The 25,000 transplants are not just a numerical accomplishment but reflect the hope, and resilience of patients and the donor families and the dedication of the Apollo Hospitals transplant team.

Building upon this legacy of excellence, Apollo Hospitals also launched the “Perfect Match” Campaign, a comprehensive initiative to raise awareness about the critical need for organ donors, dispel common myths surrounding organ donation, and inspire individuals to register as potential donors. The campaign has made a beginning in addressing the widening gap between the number of patients awaiting life-saving transplants and the availability of suitable organs.

The “Perfect Match” Campaign included a variety of outreach activities, including community health talks, educational workshops, online resources, and partnerships with patient advocacy groups. Dr. Ravichand Siddachari, Sr Consultant HPB, Liver and Pancreas Transplant at Apollo Hospitals, led an engaging and informative session with residents of the Rainbow Vistas community in Hyderabad. During the session, Dr. Siddachari addressed key questions about transplant eligibility, the organ donation process, and the profound impact that organ donation can have on individuals and families facing life-threatening illnesses.

“Reaching 25,000 transplants is a commendable achievement, but it also serves as a reminder of the immense need that exists,” said Dr. Ravichand Siddachari. “Every day, patients are added to the transplant waiting list, and sadly, many do not receive the organ they need in time. Through the ‘Perfect Match’ Campaign, we have endeavored to empower individuals to make informed decisions about organ donation and to become part of a life-saving movement.”

V. Tejesvi Rao, CEO-Telangana Region, Apollo Hospitals underlined the importance of public awareness and education, “Apollo Hospitals has always been committed to advancing the field of organ transplantation in India. With the ‘Perfect Match’ Campaign, we have taken a small but significant step forward in our efforts to increase organ donation rates and ensure that more patients have the opportunity to receive the transplants they need to live longer healthier lives.”

Dr. Ravindra Babu, Director Medical Services-Telangana Region, Apollo Hospitals said “Our team is deeply committed to providing world-class care to transplant patients. The ‘Perfect Match’ campaign is another step towards fulfilling our mission to make organ transplantation accessible to all patients who need it. We encourage everyone eligible to register to become an organ donor.”

Apollo Hospitals has been a pioneer in organ transplantation in India, establishing itself as a Center of Excellence for a wide range of transplant procedures. The hospital’s multidisciplinary transplant teams comprise highly skilled surgeons, physicians, nurses, and support staff who are dedicated to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care.

Apollo Hospitals offers comprehensive transplant services including heart, lung, liver, kidney, pancreas, cornea, small bowel, and bone marrow transplants. Dedicated transplant units with specialized equipment and highly trained staff provide optimal care for transplant patients. Transplants are performed for both adult and pediatric patients, with specialized care tailored to the unique needs of each age group. Apollo Hospitals utilizes cutting-edge surgical techniques, including minimally invasive approaches, to improve patient outcomes and reduce recovery times. Advanced immunosuppression protocols prevent organ rejection and ensure long-term graft survival.

State-of-the-art facilities include dedicated transplant centers in Jubilee Hills, Kakinada, and Vizag, with dedicated state-of-the-art laboratories, operation theatres (OTs), and transplant intensive care units (ICUs), ensuring unparalleled diagnostic precision, seamless surgeries, and 24/7 critical care. The OTs are maintained following strict infection control protocols. Apollo’s transplant ICUs are supported by advanced tools such as ventilators, continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), multi-parameter monitors, and more.

Apollo Hospitals also has extensive experience in performing living donor transplants, ensuring that patients have access to this life-saving option. It actively participates in national and regional organ-sharing networks, working to maximize the availability of deceased donor organs for transplant. Apollo Hospitals is actively involved in research and innovation in the field of organ transplantation, contributing to advancements in surgical techniques, immunosuppression strategies, and patient management.

The Heart Transplant program offers hope for patients with end-stage heart diseases such as congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathy, and coronary heart disease. For those not immediately eligible for a heart transplant, circulatory support, such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) or a left ventricular assist device (LVAD), is provided until a donor organ is available.

Apollo Hospitals takes immense pride in being the first hospital chain to pioneer lung transplants in India. The program also conducts combined Heart and Lung Transplantation, typically recommended for those with complex congenital heart defects.

Over 4,600 liver transplants, including 500 pediatric cases from more than 50 countries have been performed at Appollo. Organs can be procured from either living donors (Live Donor Liver Transplantation (LDLT)) or deceased donors (Deceased Donor Liver Transplantation (DDLT)). In LDLT, the team works closely with donors and recipients throughout treatment to ensure the highest standards of care.

The Kidney Transplant Program offers extensive services including swap kidney transplants, ABO-compatible and incompatible renal transplants. The Apollo Cancer Centre’s Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) Program is known for launching the region’s first Outpatient Bone Marrow Transplant Program, providing significant benefits such as a 50% reduction in costs, shorter hospital stays, and improved patient well-being. The Corneal Transplant program at Apollo Hospitals utilizes cutting-edge technologies like the FEMTO LDV Z8 laser machine.

Dr. N Sapna Lulla, Lead Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore

With sudden shifts in weather cool mornings giving way to scorching afternoons doctors across the city are witnessing a rise in urinary tract infection (UTI) cases. The primary culprit is Dehydration.
Doctors are seeing around 50 cases a week and a 20% increase over recent weeks. Explaining the cause behind the spike, she said: “UTIs can be triggered by dehydration, holding urine for long periods or untreated previous infections. They also experience hot flashes because of sudden climate change, which worsens their condition.”

She highlighted that while such infections can occur to anyone, women and children are highly susceptible. “The most common treatment for UTIs is drinking plenty of water or pain relievers,” she added.
But what is the link between dehydration and UTI?

“Dehydration happens when the body loses more water than it takes in, upsetting its natural balance. One major factor influencing dehydration is extreme heat. When temperatures soar, we lose fluids rapidly through sweat. If we don’t replenish this lost water, urine becomes concentrated and sits in the bladder longer, creating an ideal environment for bacterial growth and increasing UTI risk. Doctors say that the hospital sees a minimum of three cases a day.

She emphasized how temperature fluctuations worsen symptoms for those already dealing with UTI. “A key impact is increased urinary frequency, especially at night. Dehydration caused by abrupt heat spikes leads to concentrated urine, which irritates the bladder and intensifies discomfort. These rapid shifts highlight the need for extra hydration, proper hygiene, and preventive care,” she added.