Category health

Authored by Dr. Narendra S. Hiregoudar, Senior Interventional Cardiologist, HCG Suchirayu Hospital, Hubli

Heart health is vital for our overall well-being as it is the central organ that pumps blood, delivering oxygen and nutrients to each part of our body. It is crucial to maintain good heart health to prevent cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes which are one of the leading causes of death globally. The heart is affected by various diseases and peripheral artery disease is one of the common circulatory problems that affect millions of people worldwide. The disease is often undiagnosed and treated due to its nature.
What is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?

It is a condition where the arteries that supply blood to the limbs, particularly the legs, become narrowed or blocked due to cholesterol buildup in the arteries. This reduces blood flow, leading to symptoms like leg pain, cramping, and in severe cases, ulcers or gangrene. Primarily affecting older adults, with the risk increasing significantly after age 50, with high-risk patients falling under the 65+ age bracket, PAD is also seen among people with chronic smoking/tobacco, DM, hypertension, and a family history of cardiovascular disease.

5 crucial factors to know about Peripheral Artery Disease

1. PAD seldom shows any early symptoms

Peripheral Artery Disease can grow in our body without any symptoms and the plague can enlarge itself to become hard till it reaches a certain stage to block the blood flow in the arteries. One of the key symptoms of PAD is leg pain that occurs while walking and then feels better after we rest. This symptom is called claudication and occurs because our muscles don’t have enough oxygen-rich blood to support increased activity. In the advanced stage, PAD can present as gangrene of the leg/hand and may require amputation

2. PAD increases the risk of Heart Attack

If one suffers from peripheral artery disease, it is likely that the individual also has atherosclerosis in other arteries, including the coronary arteries. PAD alone significantly increases our risk of developing heart failure or having a heart attack or stroke.

3. PAD can be Prevented

Genetics plays a role in PAD, but most of the things that increase the risk of getting this disease are related to our lifestyle. Due to its link to lifestyle, we can identify what could be leading to the disease. Lifestyle risk factors have a big role and also form part of our treatment after we get diagnosed with PAD. Diabetes and smoking are known to be the leading causes of peripheral artery disease.

4. PAD can lead to Amputation

Untreated PAD can progress to an advanced stage called critical limb ischemia, a condition that occurs when blood flow is significantly blocked. Without enough blood, the tissues in your lower leg, ankle, and foot don’t get enough oxygen and start to die.
PAD if left without proper treatment can progress to an advanced stage called critical limb ischemia, a condition that occurs when blood flow is significantly blocked. Without enough blood, the tissues in our lower leg, ankle, and foot don’t get enough oxygen and start to die. Once an individual develops critical limb ischemia, they need immediate treatment to restore blood flow and preserve their leg.

5. PAD is treatable

PAD is treatable even at an advanced stage and it can be identified by a risk assessment, ultrasound screening to evaluate the arteries, and help with a lifestyle plan to prevent PAD. When a blockage is detected, minimally invasive interventional treatments that eliminate the plaque and restore normal blood flow are conducted. Procedures, such as angioplasty and atherectomy, are done from inside the arteries, using specialized catheters that only need a tiny cut to access the vein. However, the most important is control of risk factors as prevention is better than cure.

Conclusion

Early diagnosis and treatment of PAD can prevent serious complications, including heart attacks. Different kinds of treatment may involve lifestyle changes, medications, and in some cases, surgical interventions to restore blood flow in the arteries. It is essential to have regular check-ups and screenings, especially for those at risk for early detection. Understanding peripheral artery disease and its connection to heart failure or stroke can help in managing risks and maintaining cardiovascular health.

Gurugram, 26 September 2024: YFLO Delhi, in collaboration with M3M Foundation’s iMPower programme, successfully concluded a transformative Menstruation Drive at 14 identified sites across Delhi NCR. This initiative, implemented by Aide et Action, Bright Orange Foundation, and Lakshyam, was led by Ujaas, an initiative of Aditya Birla Education Trust, with support from YFLO, Delhi. During the week-long drive, over 800 beneficiaries, including 62% women, were equipped with essential knowledge on menstrual health, hygiene, and care. To further support their well-being, Sirona provided sanitary pads and menstrual cups to all participants.

Speaking at the closing session of the training held today in Gurgaon, Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson YFLO Delhi, emphasized the importance of this initiative, expressing: “Menstruation is a natural process, yet it remains shrouded in silence and stigma in many communities. This training was conceived to break the myths, empower women, and ensure they have access to the knowledge and products necessary for their health and dignity. By openly discussing these topics, we are fostering a culture of awareness and acceptance.”

The Menstruation Drive covered critical topics, including understanding menstruation, menstrual hygiene, product usage and disposal, exercises for pain relief, and combating superstitions. The program also addressed issues such as PCOS/PCOD, menopause, and how to support children during menstruation.

Mamta, a young adolescent participant shared her newfound confidence: “I used to feel embarrassed talking about periods, but now I understand it’s a normal part of life. I learned so much about taking care of myself and using the right products. I feel more confident now”. Safina, a mother from one of the migrant communities added, “This training helped me let go of old beliefs and understand how to better care for myself and my daughter. It was an eye-opener”.

Deepali and Dipika, trainers from Ujaas were also deeply moved by the experience. “It was rewarding to see women and girls engaging with the information, eager to learn and break free from taboos. The distribution of menstrual products added a practical dimension to the learning, empowering them not just with knowledge but also with essential resources,” shared by Deepali.

By distributing sanitary pads and menstrual cups to all trainees, Sirona has taken a crucial step toward addressing menstrual health and hygiene in underprivileged communities. YFLO Delhi and its partners remain committed to building a healthier, more informed future for women and girls.

Hyderabad, 26th September 2024: Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospitals concluded its 3rd edition of the annual conference, “Optimizing Fetal Outcomes,” today in Hyderabad. The event featured speakers from CIMAR (Kochi), BN Clinic (Kolkata), PSG Medical College (Coimbatore), Wadia Maternity & Central Railway Hospital (Mumbai), and the Apollo Cradle Fetal Medicine Department, led by Dr. Amitha Indersen and her team.

The conference was conceptualized in 2022 by Dr. Amitha Indersen, Head of the Department of Fetal Medicine at Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospitals Hyderabad, aimed at obstetricians and gynecologists in the states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Under her guidance, several meaningful fetal medicine conferences, webinars, and workshops have been conducted across the country.

Dr. Amitha Indersen stated, “At the end of every pregnancy, the aspiration of every fetal medicine specialist is a healthy baby and a happy mother. When things go wrong, the field of fetal therapy can help bring the pregnancy to term and allow for the delivery of a healthy baby, or one that can be managed after birth. This improves the chances of a successful pregnancy and the quality of life for the newborn.”

Currently, there is an increasing number of patients conceiving through IVF, leading to a rise in twin and triplet pregnancies. These high-risk pregnancies often present complications, such as growth abnormalities and defects, or risks associated with twin complications. In cases of twins, triplets, or higher-order multiple pregnancies, there is a risk of abnormalities due to imbalances in blood and nutrient sharing, as well as potential issues where an abnormality in one fetus can jeopardize the others. If left untreated, these complications can result in the loss of the entire pregnancy.

Our fetal medicine experts are equipped to identify these issues, which are often not well understood. Once identified, state-of-the-art fetal therapy options can help safeguard healthy fetuses and improve chances of survival through procedures such as radiofrequency ablation, laser therapy, and fetoscopy surgery.

In cases where one of the fetuses is abnormal, these fetal procedures can help protect the normal fetuses and ensure their health. Fetoscopy surgery, one of the latest treatment options available, can involve placing a device in the fetal airway to enhance lung growth and development in babies with congenital diaphragmatic hernia, as well as performing surgeries to correct neural tube defects before birth.

This annual event aims to integrate insights from the Departments of Genetics, Neonatology, and Fetal Super Specialties, ultimately striving to ensure safer pregnancies and healthier fetuses.

Dr. Vijay Aggarwal, Director of Medical Services, shared her thoughts: “Fetal medicine plays a crucial role in modern obstetrics by providing comprehensive care for both the mother and the fetus. It ensures early detection and management of potential complications, thereby improving pregnancy outcomes and reducing risks for both mother and baby.”

The conference was attended by renowned and experienced doctors from across India and focused on enhancing knowledge in fetal care, particularly in improving outcomes for fetal abnormalities. Topics included Early Pregnancy Prognostication, Neurosonogram, stages of Placenta Accreta Spectrum, Fetal Therapy, RPOC of unexpectedly complex pregnancies, TTTS stages and experiences, Antenatal Red Cell Antibody Screening, and Fetal Anemia. The objective of this conference was to provide exposure to recent advances in fetal therapies and high-risk pregnancies.

Noida, September 25, 2024 – Institute of Management Studies (IMS) Noida successfully organized a two-day, dental, eye, and health check–up camp on September 24 and 25. The camp was organized by IMS Law College, with the support of Hon’ble Director General Prof. (Dr.) Vikas Dhawan, Head of Department Prof. Dr. Bhavesh Gupta and Program Coordinator Assistant Prof. Govind Goyal, to promote health and wellness among students and faculty.

Participants were provided with a wide range of health screenings, including cholesterol, CBC, blood sugar, BP, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) tests, as well as dental and eye assessments. The camp saw an enthusiastic turnout, with a total of 480 tests conducted over the two days.

“At IMS Noida, we believe that the well–being of our students and faculty is paramount. This health camp is a reflection of our commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle, both physically and mentally. By partnering with leading healthcare providers, we are ensuring that our community has access to essential health services and is empowered to prioritize their health. I am proud of the initiative taken by our team and the overwhelming participation it received,” said Prof. Dr. Vikas Dhawan, Director General, IMS Noida.

Adding a touch of excitement to the event, the Mr.& Miss Whistle Smile Contest was organized, providing a fun and engaging competition for students. Participants were judged based on the brightness of their smiles and their oral health, adding an entertaining element to the health camp. The contest not only created a lively atmosphere but also helped raise awareness about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and dental care. By blending fun with education, the competition encouraged students to take their dental health seriously, while enjoying the camaraderie and friendly competition among their peers, and further motivating participants to actively care for their smiles.

IMS Noida extends its sincere gratitude to Clove Dental, Max Hospital, and Sharp Sight for their invaluable collaboration in making the health camp a success. Their expertise in dental, medical, and eye care ensured comprehensive check-ups and screenings for all participants. Clove Dental provided thorough oral health assessments, Max Hospital conducted key health tests like cholesterol and blood sugar, while Sharp Sight offered detailed eye evaluations. Their collective efforts significantly contributed to the success of the event, reinforcing IMS Noida’s commitment to student and faculty well–being.

Kochi, 20th September 2024: The 31-year-old pregnant woman was facing the dilemma of her baby developing complications of anemia due to blood group incompatibility or facing complications of prematurity if delivered early. But the medical team Aster Medcity carried out a life-saving procedure for the unborn child . The procedure, known as Intrauterine Fetal Blood Transfusion (IUT), was performed to treat severe anaemia in a 32-week fetus, caused by Rh incompatibility between the mother and the father.

The mother, who is Rh-negative, was carrying a Rh-positive fetus, a scenario that can lead to severe complications if the mother is already immunised by prior pregnancy. The fetus was at risk of developing life-threatening conditions such as hydrops fetalis( accumulation of fluid causing extensive swelling) and heart failure. So both the mother and fetus were being monitored closely using blood investigations and ultrasound examinations.

When the fetus started showing Doppler changes, the medical team at Aster Medcity decided to perform an Intrauterine Fetal Blood Transfusion, a delicate outpatient procedure where O-negative blood was transfused directly into the fetus’s umbilical vein through the mother’s abdomen, all under the guidance of ultrasound. This approach was critical, as delivering the baby at that time could have resulted in lifelong complications due to extreme prematurity.

Over the course of three weeks, we monitored the fetus’s condition closely, allowing the baby to continue developing in the womb. Finally, the baby was safely delivered with minimal issues related to prematurity. This shows the importance of pre-natal scanning ” said Dr. Sindhu Pudhukudi-Consultant – Fetal Medicine, Aster Medcity -Kochi.

Intrauterine Fetal Blood Transfusion is a highly specialized procedure used to treat severe fetal anemia, often caused by Rh incompatibility. When a Rh-negative mother has previously been sensitized by delivering an Rh-positive baby, her immune system can produce antibodies that attack the red blood cells of a future Rh-positive fetus, leading to anemia. The procedure involves carefully transfusing compatible O-negative blood directly into the fetus, thereby stabilizing the baby and preventing severe complications.

20th September 2024, Mumbai- Wockhardt Hospitals Ltd., a reputed chain of tertiary care super-specialty hospitals in India, celebrated Patient Safety Week Patient Safety Week 2024, aligning with the global efforts of World Patient Safety Day. This year’s theme, “Improving Diagnosis for Patient Safety,” highlights the critical role that accurate and timely diagnosis plays in enhancing patient safety and healthcare outcomes. With the slogan, “Get it right, make it safe,” the hospital is focusing on reinforcing the importance of diagnostic accuracy and engaging patients, families, and healthcare professionals in a collective effort to improve safety across all departments and units.

Running parallel to the global patient safety campaign spearheaded by the World Health Organization (WHO), this week-long initiative at Wockhardt Hospitals will feature a series of educational activities and competitions designed to engage staff, patients, and their families. From interactive safety quizzes to poster competitions and safety pavilions, the hospital aims to create a comprehensive approach to patient safety awareness.

Key Activities for Patient Safety Week 2024:

● Workstations on International Patient Safety Goals (IPSG)

● Poster competition focusing on “Improving Diagnosis for Patient Safety”

● Patient & Family Quiz – Engaging patients and families in safety awareness

● Quiz competitions for associates and consultants

● Patient Safety Reels – 60-second videos by consultants with unit and group-level prizes

● Slogan competition and safety ideas

● Active involvement of patient safety officers, both clinical and non-clinical

● Education on critical test result awareness

Safety pavilions will be set up in collaboration with lab, imaging, and inpatient areas to educate patients about the importance of accurate diagnosis and safety procedures. These interactive stations will provide valuable insights to patients and their families, reinforcing Wockhardt Hospitals commitment to delivering safe and effective care.

Ms. Zahabiya Khorakiwala, Managing Director of Wockhardt Hospitals Group said during the launch, We are deeply committed to advancing patient safety and quality care. During Patient Safety Week 2024, we reaffirm our dedication to creating a culture of safety where every patient receives the highest standard of care.”

Dr. Clive Fernandes, Group Clinical Director and Chief Operating Officer of Wockhardt Hospitals Group, added: “Patient safety is an ongoing journey, and improving diagnosis is one of the key steps to enhancing patient outcomes. Through this initiative, we aim to engage associates, patients, and their families in fostering a safer healthcare environment.”

Dr. Parag Rindani, Chief Executive Officer of Wockhardt Hospitals Group, shared his thoughts: “At Wockhardt Hospitals, patient safety is at the heart of everything we do. Patient Safety Week 2024 highlights the vital role of accurate diagnosis in providing high-quality care. This initiative reinforces our commitment to excellence and patient-centric healthcare.”

By – Mr. Vijender Reddy Muthyala, Co-founder & CEO, DrinkPrime

Amidst the monsoon’s refreshing rains and cooler breezes lies a hidden challenge: the battle against dehydration. As the humidity soars, our bodies engage in a relentless effort to maintain a stable internal temperature of 37°C. In the sweltering heat, we naturally cool down through sweat—a vital process known as thermoregulation. Typically, this sweat evaporates, taking excess heat with it. But in the monsoon season, the air is already saturated with moisture, hindering this natural cooling process. Instead of relief, we’re left with a sticky, uncomfortable sensation as our bodies work overtime, sweating more and straining our systems to stay cool.

While the monsoon provides a much-needed break from the intense summer sun, it also brings its own set of challenges. The season’s high humidity not only disrupts our body’s cooling mechanisms but also creates conditions for the spread of waterborne and vector-borne diseases. As the rains quench the earth, they also carry with them the risk of contaminated water, making it imperative that we remain vigilant about our health during this seemingly benign season.

The Hidden Importance of Hydration

Water is the cornerstone of our health, making up about 70% of our bodies and playing a critical role in the function of every cell. Dehydration deprives these cells of the water and minerals they need, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, sluggishness, and dizziness. This risk is heightened during the monsoon, as people of all ages are more susceptible to dehydration without realizing it. It’s crucial to drink enough water to maintain the body’s mineral balance and regulate temperature, especially since dehydration can easily go unnoticed.

Don’t Let Monsoon Mislead You

In the monsoon, drinking hot beverages can lower water intake, risking dehydration. Even a slight 2% decrease in hydration can lead to confusion and visual issues. Don’t depend only on thirst as an indicator; monitor other signs of dehydration to keep your energy, skin health, and mental clarity in check. Staying properly hydrated is key to overall well-being.

Dangers Lurking in Contaminated Water

The likelihood of water contamination increases sharply during the monsoon season. Heavy rains lead to surface runoff, which can transport pollutants, pesticides, and other hazardous materials into water supplies. This leads to a significant increase in vector-borne and waterborne infections during this time of year. Especially for young infants and individuals with compromised immune systems, drinking polluted water can result in major health issues. To prevent these health hazards during the monsoon, it’s just as vital to prioritize water safety and make sure you’re properly hydrated.

Practical Hydration Tips for the Monsoon Season

To maintain optimal hydration and stay disease-free during the monsoon, consider these valuable tips:

• Drink Enough Water: Regardless of how thirsty you feel, make it a priority to drink enough water throughout the day. To stay hydrated at all times, always have a bottle of water with you.
• Moderate Caffeine and Alcohol Intake: Both caffeine and alcohol can lead to increased fluid loss, acting as diuretics. Although it might be tempting to enjoy hot drinks during the rainy season, it’s important to consume them in moderation.
• Incorporate Hydrating Foods: These foods aid in hydration and offer essential nutrients. Additionally, be mindful of consuming food from outside sources to avoid potential contamination.
• Focus on Electrolytes: Electrolytes are crucial for balancing fluids and supporting numerous bodily functions.
• Use a Water Purifier: With the increased risk of water contamination during the monsoon, it’s important to have a reliable water purifier at home to ensure your water is safe to drink. A good purifier helps maintain proper pH levels and removes contaminants. Alternatively, boiling water is another effective method to ensure its safety.

Maintaining hydration and ensuring clean water are essential for staying healthy during the monsoon season

Mumbai, September 12, 2024: Alyve Health, India’s fastest-growing healthtech platform, is pleased to announce its recognition in the fourth annual edition of Forbes Asia’s prestigious ‘100 to Watch’ list, which highlights 10 emerging companies that are going to make significant impacts in their sector. This recognition serves as further evidence of Alyve Health’s dedication to redefining and improving healthcare affordability and accessibility across the country.

Alyve Health has rapidly established itself as a leader in health technology by offering innovative, personalized health plans that cater to individual needs. The platform utilizes advanced data analytics and artificial intelligence to empower users, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and wellness. The platform’s seamless integration of technology and healthcare services ensures that users receive comprehensive support tailored to their unique health journeys. With a growing user base and expanding service offerings, Alyve Health is well-positioned to lead the charge in the health-tech sector.

“We are happy to be featured in Forbes Asia’s ‘100 to Watch’ list, which reflects our commitment to reimagining healthcare in India,” said Shashank Avadhani, Co-founder and CEO of Alyve Health. “This accomplishment is a result of our team’s innovation and passion for improving everyone’s access to high-quality healthcare. We are excited to continue our journey of empowering individuals and organizations to take charge of their health through cutting-edge technology.”

The ‘100 to Watch’ list by Forbes Asia is a significant accolade that showcases the most promising companies across the region. Alyve Health’s inclusion in this list highlights its potential to shape the future of healthcare technology in Asia, making it a company to watch in the coming years. Alyve Health has successfully enrolled 400 Indian companies in its employee healthcare services, which encompass health plans and consultations focused on fitness and nutrition. This growth underscores Alyve Health’s commitment to enhancing employee wellness through accessible and comprehensive healthcare solutions.

In the past, Alyve Health has been honored with several prestigious awards, including the Healthcare Startup of the Year and the Healthy Lifestyle Startup of the Year for 2024, awarded by the IHW Council, as well as the Startup Trailblazer 2024 accolade from Dun & Bradstreet. In June, the company secured $5.5 million in Series A funding led by Axilor Ventures, raising its total funding to nearly $6.5 million.

As Alyve Health continues to innovate and expand, it remains dedicated to its mission of making healthcare more personalized and accessible for everyone. The company is excited about the future and looks forward to continuing its journey of transforming healthcare in India.

Kannur, 12 September, 2024: Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences Hospital (KIMS), well known and large healthcare chain has entered into a lease and operations and management agreement with Sreechand Speciality Hospital situated in Kannur town, Kerala. The Hospital started operations in the year 2020. Hospital is currently functioning with 189 beds, 6 OTs and 1 Cath Lab. The agreement was entered into by KIMS through its wholly-owned subsidiary KIMS SWASTHA PRIVATE LIMITED.

The hospital will be rebranded as KIMS Sreechand Specialty Hospital and will be expanded into a 350-bed quaternary care unit with high end facilities across all departments with added focus on Transplants, Robotic Surgeries and Comprehensive Cancer Care.

Distinguished and efficient individuals will take charge of Kerala’s operations indicated the press note.

Dr Abhinay Bollineni, CEO of Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences Hospital opined that the management will be adding more such Asset Light Hospitals in Kerala.

Mr. Anup Kallalathil, Director, Sreechand Hospital expressed his happiness to be associated with a well renowned group like Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences Hospital.

Bengaluru,11 Sept 2024: As the much-awaited monsoon season arrives, offering a refreshing break from the sweltering summer heat, it also brings a host of seasonal ailments, especially for those with low immunity, including children. The drop in temperature and rise in humidity levels create an ideal environment for infections to thrive, making diseases such as cold, cough, malaria, dengue, typhoid, and pneumonia more prevalent.

Ayurveda, a centuries-old science, provides a holistic approach to combating these seasonal threats. While modern medicine offers solutions for treating diseases, ancient Indian herbs and Ayurvedic formulations offer a preventive approach to maintaining a healthy and energetic lifestyle. One such powerful formulation rooted in the principles of Rasayana tantra—one of the eight specialties of Ayurveda focused on rejuvenation—is Chyawanprash.

Dr. Parmeshwar Arora, M.D. (Ayurveda), B.H.U, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, said Chyawanprash is a well-known Ayurvedic formulation, used for decades for boosting immunity and providing resistance against infections. Dabur Chyawanprash, based on an age-old formulation, is an Ayurvedic supplement, fortified with various herbs and minerals. Dabur Chyawanprash helps in prevention of a variety of diseases through its immunomodulatory effects. Dabur has conducted various clinical and preclinical studies which confirm Chyawanprash’s beneficial effect on immunity, seasonal influences, nasal allergies and infections, etc. Chyawanprash helps balance tridoshas ‘vata,pitta, and Kapha as mentioned in ancient ayurvedic scriptures. Dabur Chyawanprash helps activate Dendritic Cells, NK cells & macrophages helping fight germs.

Mr. Prashant Agarwal, Marketing Head – Health Supplements at Dabur India Ltd, emphasized, “With a rich heritage of Ayurveda and deep knowledge of nature, Dabur has always focused on providing safe, cost-efficient, and effective healthcare for all through the study of authentic Ayurvedic texts. Dabur Chyawanprash, a formulation created with ancient Indian knowledge of Ayurveda and the cutting edge of science, is the perfect way to protect ourselves from various day-to-day infections.”

Mr. Diwakar, Headmaster, Government Kannada Model Primary School KG Halli, Bengaluru, expressed his gratitude, stating, “The Immune India campaign is in perfect sync with our school’s mission to promote a healthy and active environment for our students. We believe that health and sports play a vital role in the all-round development of individuals.”

The event concluded with an interactive session where students actively participated and showcased their enthusiasm towards adopting a healthy lifestyle and engaging in sports activities. Dabur India, Corporate communication, Mr. Dinesh Kumar was present at the event.

Dabur Chyawanprash’s key ingredient, Amla (Indian gooseberry), is renowned for its immunity-boosting properties. Other ingredients, such as Guduchi, Pippali, Kantakari, and Shalparni, among others, work synergistically to alleviate common infections and allergies, particularly those affecting the respiratory system. This unique blend of herbs makes Dabur Chyawanprash a perfect ally in safeguarding health during the monsoon season.