Category health

18^th November 2024: IIHMR University, a leading health management research university in India is pleased to announce a series of specialized cutting-edge Management Development Programs (MDPs) scheduled for November 2024. These programs are meticulously designed to equip healthcare professionals with advanced skills and knowledge in public health, operations management, development sector grants, mental health management, and gender equality and sustainable development.

Commenting on these upcoming MDPs, Dr. PR Sodani, President, IIHMR University shared, “As a leader in healthcare management and research, our institute is dedicated to equipping professionals with the tools, know-how, and insights required to make a substantial impact on universal healthcare. Our forthcoming MDPs reflect our commitment to addressing vital issues including healthcare efficiency, mental health, gender equality, and development sector management showcasing our awareness and readiness to contribute to the development of healthcare ecosystem. Through these programs, we aim to foster a community of skilled professionals capable of driving transformative changes that benefit society as a whole.”

Starting from November 18 to November 22, these MDPs are designed for both national and international students covering a diverse range of fields. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of topics, including Analytics and Decision Support in Health Care Operations Management, Managing Grants and Contracts in the Development Sector, Assessing, Detecting and Managing Mental Disorders, and Empowering Gender Equality and Sustainable Development Goals.

These programs are aimed at empowering professionals and equipping them with critical skills necessary to address contemporary challenges in healthcare, development, mental health, and gender equality.

The upcoming MDPs, led by esteemed IIHMR faculty, are meticulously designed to provide intensive, hands-on learning and practical frameworks. Each program aligns with the University’s mission of contributing to societal development and effective healthcare management.

By – Dr. Ravi Kumar CP, Consultant – Pediatric Neurology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders affecting approximately 1 in 100 people in India. Characterized by recurrent seizures, which result from abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can vary in type and severity, and their unpredictability can significantly impact the daily life and well-being of those affected. Despite its prevalence, epilepsy remains underdiagnosed and misunderstood in many parts of the world. Through increased awareness, appropriate treatment, and lifestyle changes, individuals with epilepsy can lead fulfilling lives.

Symptoms

The hallmark symptom of epilepsy is seizures, but their nature can vary greatly.

• Focal Seizures: These originate in one area of the brain. They can be further divided into simple partial seizures (where consciousness is preserved) and complex partial seizures (where consciousness is impaired). Symptoms may include unusual sensations, changes in perception, or involuntary movements.

• Generalized Seizures: These involve both sides of the brain. The most common type of generalized seizure is the tonic-clonic seizure (formerly known as grand mal), which involves loss of consciousness, muscle rigidity, and rhythmic jerking movements. Other generalized seizures include absence seizures (brief lapses in consciousness), atonic seizures (sudden loss of muscle strength), and myoclonic seizures (sudden, brief jerks of the body).

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of epilepsy typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and specialized tests. The most common diagnostic tool is an electroencephalogram (EEG), which measures the brain’s electrical activity. The EEG can detect abnormal patterns that indicate epilepsy, especially during or after a seizure. Additional tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans, may be conducted to rule out structural abnormalities in the brain or other underlying conditions that could contribute to seizure activity.

In some cases, blood tests may be performed to check for metabolic or genetic factors, infections, or other medical conditions that could trigger seizures. A detailed assessment by a neurologist is critical to differentiate epilepsy from other conditions that may mimic seizure-like symptoms.

Management & Prevention

In recent years, dietary strategies have emerged as a conventional treatment, particularly for individuals whose seizures are difficult to control with medication. The two most commonly studied dietary approaches are the ketogenic diet and the low glycemic index treatment.

Ketogenic Diet: The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that has been shown to reduce seizures in some people with epilepsy. On a ketogenic diet, the majority of your calories come from fats (about 70-80%), with a moderate amount of protein (around 20-25%), and very few carbohydrates (only about 5-10%).

• Fats: This includes foods like meat, fish, butter, oils, avocados, and nuts.

• Proteins: Foods like eggs, cheese, and meats like chicken, beef, and fish are common.

• Carbohydrates: You avoid or eat very small amounts of high-carb foods like bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, sugary snacks, and most fruits.

Low Glycemic Index Diet: The Low Glycemic Index (GI) Diet is an eating plan that focuses on choosing foods that cause a slower rise in blood sugar levels. The idea is to eat foods that are digested more slowly, helping to keep blood sugar levels steady rather than causing sharp spikes and crashes.

• High-GI foods (like white bread, sugary snacks, and sodas) cause a quick spike in blood sugar because they break down quickly into sugar.

• Low-GI foods (like whole grains, legumes, and most vegetables) break down more slowly and lead to a gradual rise in blood sugar.

Treatment

Epilepsy treatment focuses on controlling seizures and improving the quality of life for the patient. The approach typically involves a combination of medication, lifestyle adjustments, and in some cases, surgical intervention.

• Medications: Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are the most common treatment for epilepsy. These medications help to regulate the brain’s electrical activity and prevent seizures. It may take time to find the right medication and dosage for each individual, and some patients may experience side effects that require adjustments to their treatment plan.

• Surgery: For patients who do not respond to medications, surgical options may be considered. Surgery involves removing the part of the brain responsible for seizure activity. In some cases, a procedure called vagus nerve stimulation or deep brain stimulation may be used to help control seizures.

Despite the significant advances in understanding and treating epilepsy, there remains a widespread lack of awareness about the condition. Raising awareness is crucial to improving the lives of people and by enhancing access to effective treatments.

A multi-faceted plan of action should also include better integration of dietary therapies, holistic approaches, and individualized care to address the diverse needs of individuals living with epilepsy. By fostering a deeper understanding of epilepsy and promoting timely intervention, we can ensure that those affected by this disorder lead healthier, more empowered lives.

Mohali, 16 November 2024: A team led by Dr. Dharmender Aggarwal, senior Uro-oncologist and robotic surgeon at Fortis Hospital, Mohali, has successfully performed a complex robotic-assisted surgery to remove a massive 14-centimetre kidney tumour and tumour thrombus (blood clot) from a 62-year-old patient. This advanced surgery, performed with the cutting-edge da Vinci robotic system, is the first of its kind in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, demonstrating the effectiveness of robotic-assisted surgery for high-risk cases.

The 62-year-old patient initially experienced blood in his urine. After initial treatment at local centres, scans revealed a 14 cm tumour in his right kidney, which had completely replaced the organ and formed a thrombus (blood clot) that extended into the renal vein and inferior vena cava (IVC), the main vein returning blood to the heart. The surgery required removing both the tumour and the thrombus from the kidney, renal vein, and IVC, making it a highly complex procedure.

“This type of advanced kidney cancer typically requires a highly invasive procedure, with significant risks of blood loss and complications. However, we opted for a robotic-assisted radical nephrectomy combined with an IVC thrombectomy, a procedure that requires extreme precision to safely remove both the kidney and the tumour thrombus,” said Dr. Aggarwal, adding, “Using the advanced da Vinci robotic system, we carefully dissected the inferior vena cava, placed slings to control blood flow, and removed the tumour thrombus along with the affected part of the IVC. We then repaired the vein, ensuring proper blood flow. The complex part of surgery was completed in just 12 minutes, which would have taken 20-30 minutes in the traditional approach.”

Remarkably, the procedure, completed robotically, resulted in minimal blood loss, far less than in traditional open surgery, eliminating the need for a transfusion. Moreover, adoption of this advanced surgical technique reduced the risk of cardiac arrest and respiratory failure while doing the IVC thrombectomy. The patient was discharged after three days with minimal discomfort, benefiting from quicker healing, reduced pain, and a shorter hospital stay.

The patient expressed his gratitude for the care he received at Fortis Hospital, Mohali, saying, “I was deeply concerned about the risks involved, but Dr. Aggarwal and the entire team reassured me at every step. I am amazed at how quickly I was able to recover and return home.”

This case highlights the capabilities of robotic-assisted surgery for managing complex and high-risk cases. The da Vinci robotic system offers enhanced magnification, greater precision, and reduced blood loss, making it an essential technology for complex surgeries like this.

“We have set a new standard for what can be achieved with surgical robotics in North India. We hope that more hospitals in the region will adopt this technology, and that more surgeons will undergo specialised training in robotic techniques. This is the future of surgery, and it offers significant benefits for both patients and medical professionals alike,” Dr. Aggarwal added.

Hyderabad, November 15, 2024- The World Diabetic Day was observed at Pushpagiri Vitreo Retina Institute(PVRI) at Marredpally. A free check-up camp was organised which was then followed’ by an awareness talk by Dr. Vishal Govind Hari and Dr Sai Kiranmai.” The doctors advised that Diabetics must get their eyes checked once every six months.

If you have diabetes you may be at risk of developing an eye condition called diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy can cause sight loss if it’s not treated. Diabetic eye screening checks for signs of diabetic retinopathy, often before you notice any changes in your sight, the doctors told the patients.

Manipal, 14th November 2024: Manipal Universal Press (MUP), a unit of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), released COVID-19 Pandemic: Insights from Managing the Crisis in a Teaching Hospital, authored by Jibu Thomas, Associate Director – Operations at Kasturba Hospitals. The book provides a comprehensive account of the challenges and adaptive strategies implemented by the hospital in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, serving as a valuable resource for healthcare administrators in preparing for future health emergencies.

The book was formally released by Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor of MAHE, who emphasized its significance as a record of how Kasturba Hospital transformed into a dedicated COVID-19 treatment center, effectively managing the crisis from the first case to becoming a model facility. “This book is an important resource that chronicles the journey of turning a tertiary hospital into a successful COVID-19 care center,” he said. He also added that it will serve as a useful resource for hospitals in managing future pandemics.

Dr H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor of MAHE, also spoke at the event, reflecting on the profound impact of the pandemic and commending the dedication shown by healthcare professionals and administrators. He described the book as a crucial documentation of the efforts and innovations that occurred under unprecedented circumstances, offering both lessons and inspiration for future crisis management.

Author Mr. Jibu Thomas expressed that this is his second book, aiming to provide an authentic record of the experiences, challenges, and policy adaptations made by Kasturba Hospital and the TMA Pai Hospital during the pandemic.

Welcoming the guests, Dr Srinivasa Acharya, Chief Editor (in Charge) at Manipal Universal Press (MUP), expressed pride in releasing MUP’s 294th publication. He highlighted MUP’s 13-year journey, rooted in MAHE’s commitment to academic publishing, and emphasized that the new book serves as both a historical record and essential guide, capturing critical lessons from the pandemic and celebrating MAHE’s healthcare teams’ collaborative efforts.

The event was attended by several distinguished dignitaries, including Dr Sharath Kumar Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor of Health Sciences; Dr Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor of Technology and Science; Dr P Giridhar Kini, Registrar; Dr Raviraja N S, Chief Operating Officer of Administration; Dr Anand Venugopal, Professor in the Department of Radio Diagnosis and Imaging; Dr Avinash Shetty, Medical Superintendent and Professor in the Department of Community Medicine; Mr C G Muthana, Advisor of Administration; Dr Padmaraj Hegde, Dean and Professor in the Department of Urology; Dr B Unnikrishnan, Dean and Professor in the Department of Community Medicine; Mr Sachin Karanth, Deputy Director PR and Communication, MAHE; and Dr Bincy M George, Associate Professor and Division Coordinator in the Division of Anatomy.

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Mumbai, November 13, 2024 — Healthium Medtech, a global player in medical devices focused on products within the surgical and post-surgical ecosystem – including wound closure, advanced wound care, arthroscopy and infection prevention segments – has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Healthcare Sector Skill Council (HSSC, a non- profit organization supported by the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII), the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC),  and leading organizations across healthcare providers, pharmaceuticals, medical device industries, diagnostics, in public and private sectors  which  is  aligned with the “ Skill India program” – a flagship initiative under Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).

Anish Bafna, CEO & MD of Healthium Medtech, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, saying, “Healthium has always been dedicated to fostering excellence in healthcare by empowering professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. Through this partnership with HSSC, we are thrilled to extend our reach in skill development, focusing on creating practical, industry-relevant training that will directly impact the quality of care patients receive. By equipping healthcare workers with advanced, hands-on skills, we can help build a more competent and confident workforce, ready to meet the complexities of modern medical practices and deliver exceptional patient outcomes.”

The MoU was formalized in New Delhi with senior representatives from both organizations. Healthium and HSSC will now collaborate to deliver training programs aimed at skilling, reskilling and upskilling healthcare workers, enabling them to address evolving challenges in the field.

Ashish Jain, CEO, Healthcare Sector Skill Council, noted the strategic importance of the partnership, stating, “Collaborating with Healthium Medtech aligns with our vision to strengthen healthcare standards in India by cultivating a skilled and adaptable workforce as HSSC is dedicated to building a skilled and competent healthcare workforce that meets the highest industry standards and is equipped to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare sector. Healthium’s commitment to innovation and quality training makes them an ideal partner in our mission to raise the bar for healthcare skills. Together, we aim to set a new benchmark for skill development, contributing to a stronger, more resilient healthcare system aimed at empowering India’s youth with employable skills across various industries and sectors”.

Under the partnership, Healthium Medtech and HSSC will be jointly working on developing the training programs, comprehensive training modules tailored to the specialized skills required in the healthcare sector. In line with this commitment, Healthium will conduct training batches throughout the year. This partnership not only strengthens Healthium’s role in healthcare training but also underscores HSSC’s dedication to expanding the network of quality educational providers within India’s healthcare sector.

Indian Institute of Management Bodh Gaya has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PCI India to strengthen the public health domain. IIM Bodh Gaya started the 2-year full-time MBA (Hospital & Healthcare Management) in 2023. The programme is designed to provide a holistic appreciation of the healthcare industry, including large corporate hospitals, public health, health insurance, pharmaceuticals, digital health, and healthcare consulting. The institute is striving for academic excellence in healthcare management education by bridging the gap between industry and academia through this collaboration with PCI India.

Prof. (Dr.) Vinita Sahay, Director of IIM Bodh Gaya and Mr. Indrajit Chaudhuri, CEO of PCI India emphasized that this collaboration is strategic and futuristic, with the MoU playing a significant role in fostering academic excellence and creating a social impact. According to Prof. Swapnarag Swain Chairperson of the MBA (Hospital & Healthcare Management) IIM Bodh Gaya, this collaboration is a win-win situation as the students will gain exposure to public health issues and will come up with potential solutions for project implementations.

Under this MoU, students enrolled in the MBA-HHM programme will undergo a 2-week long community immersion project which aims to provide an immersive learning experience in public health. Apart from this, subject matter experts from PCI India will be involved in delivering lectures on relevant topics and PCI India will provide internship opportunities to the students of MBA-HHM. It is to be noted that the summer internship under the MBA-HHM programme is of a 4-month long duration which brings uniqueness to the programme. In addition, IIM Bodh Gaya and PCI India have agreed to conduct joint research, and events such as round table discussions, seminars, workshops and conferences aiming to foster knowledge-sharing, innovation and discussions on pertinent issues in the healthcare management domain.

The institute is constantly taking strategic steps to make a significant contribution to the healthcare industry and is committed to establishing itself as a centre of excellence for healthcare management education and research.

Chennai, 11 November 2024: The 7th edition of the Apollo Cancer Conclave, organized by Apollo Cancer Centers ,Mumbai was attended by over 2,000 Oncologist with over 400 faculty from leading national and international cancer care experts and researchers. The event focused on discussing the latest advances and innovations in cancer care, navigating the evolving landscape from contemporary treatments to precision oncology.

Held from November 8th to 10th, the conclave provided a dynamic platform for healthcare professionals to engage in panel discussions, workshops, and research presentations. The key note and the sessions offered invaluable insights into both established and emerging cancer care treatments and management strategies.

With seven organ-specific scientific tracks, more than 100 sessions, and numerous interactive discussions, the Apollo Cancer Conclave has firmly established itself as the cornerstone event in oncology. It is now a key fixture on the healthcare calendar for oncology specialists dedicated to combating cancer more effectively and empathetically.

Dr. Elisabete Weiderpass, Director of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) at the World Health Organization, remarked, “IARC’s 2022 estimates show that the global cancer burden is projected to rise from 20 million new cases in 2022 to 35 million by 2050, primarily impacting low- and middle-income countries. In India, the cancer burden is expected to rise from 1.41 million new cases in 2022 to 2.69 million in 2050. With this alarming prediction, prevention has become the key response to the cancer epidemic. Initiatives like the Apollo Cancer Conclave 2024 offer an invaluable platform to raise awareness among local experts. At IARC, our vision is a world where fewer people develop cancer, and this requires proactive, evidence-based strategies in prevention and early detection. The Conclave has been a remarkable opportunity to share these strategies and strengthen our collective mission.”

Ms. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd, stated, “Apollo Hospitals was founded with a vision to deliver healthcare of global standards. We continue that legacy by revolutionizing cancer care through new benchmarks, advanced technologies, and innovative treatments, ensuring better outcomes for a wider audience. With over 390 oncologists across 22 Apollo Cancer Centres, we deliver compassionate, patient-centric care, benchmarked against the best globally. The inauguration of the Apollo Cancer Conclave highlights our commitment to bringing the highest standards of healthcare to the people of India and the world.”

Mr. Dinesh Madhavan, President of Group Oncology & International at Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd, said, “As we delve deeper into the evolving field of oncology, it’s critical to recognize the groundbreaking innovations emerging worldwide. Significant advancements in early cancer detection are on the horizon, and with our well-trained clinicians and cutting-edge technologies, we continue to reshape the oncology landscape. Today, cancer care means providing comprehensive, 360-degree support. By keeping pace with technological advancements in cancer management and treatment, Apollo Cancer Centres remains at the forefront of this transformative journey, serving 3.5 billion people across 147 countries.”

Dr. Anil D’cruz, Director of Oncology Services at Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai, commented, “The Apollo Cancer Conclave has become a highly anticipated event within the global oncology community, bringing together thought leaders, practitioners, and researchers dedicated to transforming cancer care. Our goal is to inspire, challenge, and collectively advance cancer treatment through knowledge-sharing and collaboration. This year’s focus on precision oncology underscores the shift toward more tailored, patient-centric approaches to cancer treatment, ultimately improving the quality of life for every patient battling cancer.”

The Conclave featured a wide range of sessions covering various areas of oncology, including breast, gynecology, gastrointestinal, head and neck, uro-oncology, and hematolymphoid cancers. With keynote addresses, interactive panels, and real-time case discussions, the event highlighted the transformative potential of technology and precision medicine in cancer care, emphasizing patient-centric innovations.

One of the Conclave’s major announcements was the introduction of Apollo’s new Breast Cancer Care guidelines, which are set to redefine how breast cancer is managed across India.

The Apollo Cancer Conclave 2024 set the stage for continued advancements in cancer care, establishing new benchmarks in precision oncology, robotics, AI-based patient care, and clinical collaboration. This year’s event exemplified Apollo’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of oncology and reinforced its role as a global leader in transforming cancer care.

Mumbai/Kolkata, 8th November’24: In commemoration of National Cancer Awareness Day, Medica Superspecialty Hospital, a leading healthcare provider in Kolkata, hosted an interesting panel discussion – ‘Focusing on the important role of NGOs in making modern cancer treatment more accessible to economically disadvantaged patients in private healthcare facilities’. Representatives of reputable NGOs such as Rotary, Fight Cancer, Cancer Fight Foundation, Jadavpur Pension Association, Gauri Bari Welfare, Cankids and Dinante joined the discussion as panelists, moderated by Prof. (Dr.) Subir Ganguly, Senior Consultant and Advisor in Radiation Oncology. A few of the cancer survivors were also present during the discussion.

This year’s National Cancer Awareness Day theme, “Prevention, Early Detection and Treatment,” emphasizes the need for vigilance to recognize early signs and accessible care. Financial barriers often prevent many people from seeking cancer treatment. And NGOs play a key role in bridging this gap. In cooperation with private hospitals These organizations help patients get the treatment they need. They usually support or subsidize medical expenses.

During the discussion, Prof. (Dr.) Subir Ganguly, remarked, “Many lives are lost to cancer, and sadly, some of these losses are due to limited access to treatment. For many, the high cost of cancer care makes it unaffordable, leaving critical treatments out of reach. Here, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have an important role to play in making cancer treatment more accessible and affordable for people from lower economic backgrounds. These organizations fill health care gaps by providing essential services such as financial assistance. In collaboration with private hospitals, they provide inexpensive treatment options and necessary services, like free screenings to patients. NGOs often run awareness campaigns to prevent cancer and are additionally involved in providing emotional and logistical support, such as counseling, Nutrition advice and transportation assistance to cancer patients. At Medica, we also work with many NGOs to make cancer care affordable for the patients in need and we are quite successful in associating with the NGOs which benefited the patients. In the near future, we look to collaborate with more such organizations to help our patients.”

Dr. Ayanabh Debgupta, Regional Chief Operating Officer, Manipal Hospitals (East), shared, “Cancer is the biggest threat to our society and being healthcare professionals, our top priority is to make cancer treatment affordable and accessible for patients in need. It is heartbreaking to see people losing their lives due to lack of treatment. From the very beginning, we have partnered with various non-governmental organizations to support patients from lower economical background. Through these collaborations, we have been able to ease some of their financial burden, and we will continue to support our patients in this way at our hospitals.”

7th November 2024 – Gleneagles Hospitals (Gleneagles Healthcare India Pvt Ltd) India has been certified Great Place To Work® Certified™ in India (from 09, 24, to 09,25)! This Certification is a testament to our commitment to creating a positive and empowering work environment for our employees.

Great Place To Work is the global authority on workplace culture. Since 1992, they have surveyed more than 100 million employees worldwide and used those deep insights to define what makes a great workplace: trust. Their employee survey platform empowers leaders with the feedback, real-time reporting, and insights they need to make strategic people decisions.

Anurag Yadav, CEO of Gleneagles Healthcare India, expressed his enthusiasm about the Certification: “We are thrilled to be recognized as a Great Place To Work. This Certification reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of trust, respect, and innovation. Our employees are the heart of our organization, and their dedication to providing exceptional healthcare is what makes Gleneagles a truly great place to work. We will continue to invest in our people and create an environment where they can thrive and grow.”

Gleneagles Hospitals India is a pioneering multi-specialty healthcare provider, operating six state-of-the-art hospitals across Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. With over 1500 beds and a team of world-renowned specialists, Gleneagles is at the forefront of medical innovation in India. The hospital group has achieved remarkable success in complex organ transplants, including heart, lung, liver, and kidney transplantations, with survival rates comparable to global standards. As part of the IHH Healthcare network, Gleneagles leverages global expertise to continually push the boundaries of medical excellence, offering hope to patients with complex and critical conditions.

Great Place to Work is the global authority on workplace culture. Their mission is to help every place become a great place to work for all. Their recognition is the most coveted and respected in the world for elevating employer brands to attract the right people. Their proprietary methodology and platform enable organizations to truly capture, analyse, and understand the experience of all employees. Their groundbreaking research empowers organizations to build cultures that retain talent and unlock the potential of every employee. Since 1992, their Certification, Best Workplaces™ Lists, and global benchmarks have become the industry standard, built on data from more than 100 million employees in 150 countries around the world.