Category health

Gurugram, 10th September 2024: Doctors from Paras Hospital Gurugram, organized a public awareness session to raise awareness about importance of recognising the early symptoms of aneurysms, and with latest and advanced treatment modality, timely intervention can prevent mortality and morbidity.

The session was orated by Dr. Vipul Gupta, Group Director and Head of the Department of Neurointervention at Paras Hospital, Gurugram, who also announced about the upcoming major International Training program – SLICE Training Course (for training young doctors about the treatment of brain aneurysms using advanced neurointervention techniques). SLICE is a very reputed International Training program, which is conducted in France and this is the first time being conducted in Asia.

Emphasizing the importance of the SLICE Training Program, which is being held in Asia for the first time, Dr. Vipul Gupta, Group Director and Head of the Department of Neurointervention at Paras Hospital, Gurugram, said “SLICE training course will bring together neurointerventionists from across the country and neighbouring SAARC nations to engage in cutting-edge education. Utilizing modern technology, including 3D printed models of brain aneurysms, the program will offer young doctors, a unique opportunity to practice and perfect their skills in treating aneurysms with the latest neurointervention techniques. The SLICE Training Program aims to equip young doctors with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage these conditions, potentially leading to complete recovery and allowing patients to enjoy a normal life expectancy.”

Dr. Gupta highlighted that while brain aneurysms are less frequent than paralytic strokes or hypertensive hemorrhages, they commonly affect individuals between the ages of 40 and 60 and are more prevalent in women. These aneurysms often strike without warning and are a major cause of death and disability due to brain strokes. However, he notes that with timely intervention, brain aneurysms are highly treatable and curable. Nearly 2-5% of the population may have an unruptured brain aneurysm, and many are unaware of it.

Explaining about the latest and advanced neuro interventional procedures, Dr Vipul further added “In recent times there have been significant technological advancements in neurointervention, such as endovascular coiling, stent assisted coiling and flow diverter stenting. These minimally invasive techniques have significantly improved outcomes, reducing the risk of complications and promoting faster recovery. With advances in technology, we now have several effective and minimally invasive options to treat aneurysms before they rupture.”

10th September 2024: NIIT Foundation, a non-profit organization has joined hands with HDFC ERGO General Insurance to introduce two training programs aimed at fostering economic empowerment and financial literacy among underserved communities. The initiative commenced in June 2024, NIIT Foundation and HDFC ERGO undertakes two key programs, that include training in Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) with the placement opportunities to the successful candidates, and Financial Literacy training – aiming to impact 4,500 individuals across Delhi and Tamil Nadu.

The BFSI training programme targets to impact 500 beneficiaries aged between 20 and 30 years old, by providing them with comprehensive training in the segment, followed by complete assistance in securing employment opportunities upon completing the training.

Simultaneously, the Financial Literacy training program aims to educate and empower 4,000 individuals with financial knowledge and skills with the help of practical insights into financial planning, management, and understanding insurance products. The program is open to people of all ages, accommodating citizens between 18 and 60 years of age, with an aim to equip participants with the necessary tools to make informed financial decisions and uplift individuals, particularly those belonging to underserved communities, to break the cycle of poverty.

Highlighting the importance of the partnership, Dr. Charu Kapoor – Country Director – NIIT Foundation, noted, “Reports suggest that despite the BFSI industry’s exponential growth, our workforce still lacks 50% of the skills that are prerequisite for the BFSI segment[1], making upskilling an integral component. Recognising this, NIIT Foundation is pleased to be partnering with HDFC ERGO to further our efforts in not only bridging the skill gap in the BFSI industry but also improve financial literacy among underserved communities, equipping individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in today’s dynamic economic landscape.”

“Learning is the new currency and skill will be the primary differentiator going forward. At HDFC ERGO, we believe in the philosophy – The future is here and now. VidyaaVriksh is a step towards realising that. By combining our expertise in insurance domain with NIIT Foundation’s training reach, our collaboration aims to making a significant difference in the lives of thousands of individuals – aiding them in both ending the cycle of financial insecurity but also empowering them to build a secure and prosperous future,” said Mr. Anuj Tyagi – CEO and Managing Director, HDFC ERGO

The training programs, which will be conducted through NIIT Foundation’s will be impacting 4,500 individuals by the end of the current fiscal year.

In the journey toward healthier living, even the smallest kitchen choices can have a profound impact on our well-being. One such choice is the cooking oil we use, which can significantly influence our health. Among the many options available, rice bran oil stands out for those seeking both nutritional benefits and culinary versatility.

This outer layer is rich in essential nutrients, including oryzanol, an antioxidant present in concentrations of over 10,000 ppm. Oryzanol is known for its ability to lower bad cholesterol (LDL) while maintaining good cholesterol (HDL). This makes rice bran oil a heart-healthy alternative to common cooking oils like vegetable or sunflower oil. Its balanced fatty acid profile, with an equal ratio of polyunsaturated (PUFA) and monounsaturated (MUFA) fats, supports cardiovascular health and helps manage cholesterol levels.

The versatility of rice bran oil is another significant advantage. With a high smoke point of approximately 232°C, it is suitable for a variety of cooking methods, including frying, sautéing, and baking. Unlike some oils that degrade and release harmful compounds when heated, rice bran oil remains stable, ensuring that your dishes are both nutritious and flavourful. Its neutral taste complements a wide range of ingredients, enhancing the natural flavours of your meals.

What Experts Say about Rice Bran Oil:

Speaking at the ICRBO 2023 Dr. Rohini Sharma, Ph. D. Food Science and Nutrition, Consultant Food Technologist, Consultant Nutritionist, and Life Coach at International Conference on Rice Bran oil (ICRBO), “Rice Bran Oil is very good for day to day cooking. It is a very healthy oil and more people should know the benefits of using the Rice Bran Oil. Rice Bran Oil has a balanced fatty profile with PUFA and MUFA in the ratio of 1:1, and very low saturated fatty acids. It is rich in nutraceuticals – Oryzanol, tocopherol, and tocotrienols which are natural Antioxidants. Oryzanol present in Rice Bran Oil reduces Bad Cholesterol (LDL) and maintains Good Cholesterol (HDL). We all should shift towards making a healthier choice in our kitchen by switching to Rice bran oil.”

Speaking at the ICRBO 2023 Dr. Sheryl Salis, Registered Dietitian (RD), Certified Diabetes Educator, Insulin Pump Specialist, and Founder -of Nurture Health Solutions “We recommend people to use Rice Bran Oil, as it is Made in India and ideally suited to our Indian palate. The National Institution of Nutrition (NIN), ICMR, WHO, and several heart organizations have regularly promoted the use of Rice Bran Oil. In clinical practice, we are witnessing a lot of young people suffering from diabetes and heart diseases. We are constantly copying Western countries and are not focusing on our products like Rice bran oil.”

To educate the masses about the health benefits, Freedom Rice Bran Oil is operating a new campaign titled ‘Cholesterol ki Safai ka Specialist.’ This campaign reinforces the message that ‘Rice Bran Oil Kare Andar Se Safai’, focuses on the oil’s role in maintaining heart health. By highlighting how rice bran oil helps clear built-up cholesterol in the body, the campaign underscores the importance of incorporating it into daily cooking. Emphasizing the oil’s high oryzanol content, along with its ability to manage cholesterol levels, the campaign aims to educate consumers on its health benefits.

Mrs. Saraswathi, a homemaker who recently switched to rice bran oil, shares, “Using rice bran oil has transformed the way I cook. It adds a lightness to dishes that my family loves, and I feel confident knowing it supports their overall health. The oil’s ability to create a crisp, light texture in fried foods allows me to prepare comforting meals without compromising on nutrition.”

Freedom Rice Bran Oil not only prioritizes health but also ensures quality through careful sourcing and production. The brand’s commitment to preserving the oil’s nutritional value and natural antioxidants ensures that consumers fully benefit from its health-promoting properties.

Mr. P. Chandra Shekhara Reddy, Senior Vice President – Sales & Marketing at Freedom Rice Bran Oil, said, “More than just a cooking essential, Freedom Rice Bran Oil has become a trusted ally for health-conscious consumers. With over 10,000 ppm of oryzanol, we are dedicated to providing a product that supports both taste and wellness. Our focus on quality and nutrition empowers consumers to make informed choices, contributing to a healthier and more vibrant lifestyle.”

Incorporating rice bran oil into your cooking routine is an easy yet impactful step toward better health. Its balanced fatty acid profile, high smoke point, and neutral flavour make it an excellent choice for a wide range of dishes. By choosing Freedom Rice Bran Oil, you enhance the taste of your meals while embracing a healthier approach to cooking that benefits both you and your family.

Bengaluru, 9th September 2024- In a case described as “one in a million,” a team of doctors at Aster Whitefield Hospital successfully treated an 8-year-old girl suffering from trichobezoar, a condition caused by trichophagia, the compulsive eating of hair also known as Rapunzel Syndrome.

It started as an innocent habit. For two years, Aditi (name changed), the young girl from Bengaluru experienced intermittent bouts of poor appetite and frequent vomiting. Her parents, puzzled by her persistent symptoms, sought help from numerous doctors, but each diagnosis and treatment failed to bring relief. Little did they know, the answer lay within their daughter’s unique and rare behavior—an answer that would lead to a rare medical condition.

The family, living in a close-knit, affluent joint household, became increasingly worried as their daughter’s condition deteriorated. Initial evaluations by paediatricians, general physicians, and ENT specialists suggested gastritis and prescribed multivitamins. It wasn’t until a month ago that the puzzle began to unravel when the girl was admitted to the Paediatric Emergency at Aster Women and Children Hospital, Whitefield, Bengaluru.

After being transferred to Aster Whitefield Hospital for further examination it was revealed that she had a trichobezoar which is basically hair mass stuck inside the gastrointestinal tract. This exceptional condition resulted from severe symptoms which are linked to trichophagia- compulsive eating of hair. The medical team led by Dr. Manjiri Somashekhar, the Lead & Senior Consultant – Paediatric Surgery, Dr. Sethu Mohan K, Senior Specialist – Pediatric surgery and Dr. Aravind A, Consultant – Paediatrics and paediatrics Intensive Care addressed this complex case.

Dr. Manjiri Somashekhar, Lead & Senior Consultant – Paediatric Surgery, Aster Women and Children Hospital, Whitefield explains, “Trichobezoar is an extremely rare condition and especially very rare in a child as young as Aditi. It is often associated with trichophagia, a psychological disorder where individuals eat hair. While commonly seen in adolescent girls, finding this in a much younger child is extraordinary and highlights the uniqueness of this case.”

Aditi underwent an open surgery to remove the hairball as it was too large and sticky to be removed endoscopically. The surgical team decided on this approach to prevent spillage into the peritoneal cavity, a choice that proved effective. The surgery lasted two and a half hours, and Aditi was hospitalized for a week for postoperative care.

“If left undiagnosed, this condition could have led to severe malnutrition, anaemia, and significant bleeding from the stomach,” Dr. Sethu Mohan K, Senior Specialist – Pediatric surgery, Aster Women and Children Hospital, Whitefield emphasized. “The hairball could have embedded into the stomach lining, causing severe bleeding during removal and potentially leading to life-threatening complications such as perforation.”

Following the surgery, Aditi was placed on a high-protein diet and partial parenteral nutrition to address her malnutrition. She also received counselling to manage her trichophagia. A child psychologist is overseeing her mental health, with her family closely involved in the treatment plan.

“The surgery was intricate and demanding,” recalled Dr. Aravind A, Consultant – Paediatrics and Paediatrics Intensive Care, Aster Women and Children Hospital, Whitefield. “But it was the only way to ensure the best outcome for our young patient.”

The child’s parents were initially shocked by the diagnosis. Extensive counselling was required to help them understand the condition and the critical nature of the treatment. Their cooperation was instrumental in early identification of symptoms and seeking appropriate medical care. The family’s vigilance and support continue to play a vital role in the child’s recovery.

The long-term prognosis for the child is positive, provided she continues to receive psychological support and regular monitoring. Preventive measures include educating parents about the signs of trichophagia, such as sparse hair in the frontal scalp area, and the importance of psychological assessment in conjunction with surgical treatment.

HCAH, a leading provider of comprehensive out-of-hospital healthcare solutions in India, has taken a significant step towards promoting rapid patient recovery with the introduction of a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing healing processes. Recognizing the detrimental impact of bedsores on recovery timelines, HCAH has partnered with Aroa Biosurgery New Zealand to further strengthen its commitment to patient care excellence.

Aroa Biosurgery is a renowned soft-tissue regeneration company that develops, manufactures, and distributes medical and surgical products to improve healing in complex wounds and soft tissue reconstruction. Aroa Biosurgery is introducing new product lines specifically designed to address complex vascular and diabetic wounds, offering advanced solutions that enhance healing and significantly improve patient recovery.

As part of this partnership, HCAH has launched the “WOW (Warriors of Woundcare) Nurses” program aimed at preventing and effectively treating bedsores.

“In recognizing the ongoing efforts of our healthcare professionals, we continue to highlight the exceptional contributions of our nurses,” remarks Vivek Srivastava, Founder and CEO of HCAH. “Nurses are at the heart of patient care, and the WOW Nurses will undoubtedly become champions of wound care, ensuring a superior patient experience and expediting the healing process.”

Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, are a common challenge for patients confined to beds or with limited mobility. These painful wounds not only hinder recovery but also lead to significant discomfort. Research reveals that bedsores prolong hospital stays and elevate the risk of severe infections.

“Our aim is zero bed sores, and the introduction of ‘WOW Nurses’ is a key step towards this goal,” says Dr. Gaurav Thukral, Co-Founder and COO of HCAH. “This initiative enhances patient recovery, reduces complications, and improves comfort. Our recent study, published in the International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), showed that 64% of pressure ulcer cases were grade 2, with 62% of patients seeing significant improvement. These findings reinforce the importance of timely intervention, tailored care, and ongoing education in effectively managing pressure ulcers.”

The WOW Nurses, certified in advanced wound care management, will focus on proactively preventing and treating bedsores using the latest techniques and best practices to ensure optimal patient recovery.

By investing in specialized international training for its nursing staff, HCAH is taking a critical step to accelerate patient recovery. This comprehensive curriculum focuses on the latest wound care techniques, a crucial element in preventing bed sores. Bed sores, also known as pressure ulcers, can significantly slow the recovery process and increase complications. Equipping nurses with the most up-to-date knowledge ensures patients receive the highest quality care, leading to faster recovery times and improved outcomes.

“We’re proud to support HCAH Rehab & Recovery Centre’s commitment to enhancing post-surgery care, especially for patients with bedsores,” says Dr. Patrick Hunt, Director of Business Development at Aroa Biosurgery. “As exclusive partners in India, Bangladesh, and Nepal, we recognize the importance of specialized training. We’re pleased to support the certification program and provide expert-led sessions from New Zealand on using Endoform and Myriad. Our technology aims to reduce wound care time, cost, and effort, allowing nursing resources to be utilized more effectively.”

HCAH remains committed to advancing wound care through ongoing research, education, and training. The ‘WOW Nurses’ initiative marks a significant leap forward, redefining care standards and setting new benchmarks for patient-centered healthcare.

For those seeking post-hospitalization rehabilitation care, HCAH’s services are worth considering. The WOW Nurses ensure patients receive optimal wound care, facilitating a faster and more comfortable recovery journey.

New Delhi, September 09, 2024: Nucleome Informatics, a leading genomics services provider, is proud to announce the launch of its DrSeq IRD panel, a revolutionary genetic test for diagnosing Inherited Retinal Diseases (IRDs). This test is among the most comprehensive available globally, designed to improve early detection and disease management, especially in individuals with a family history of blindness. IRDs represent a genetically diverse spectrum of disorders that affect the retina, leading to vision impairment or blindness. In India, the prevalence of IRDs ranges from 1 in 350 to 1 in 2000, varying by region and factors such as consanguinity. Accurate diagnosis of these conditions has been challenging due to their clinical and genetic heterogeneity, with over 300 genes associated with IRDs. However, most cases are caused by mutations in 20 key genes.

Nucleome’s DrSeq IRD panel covers an extensive range of IRDs, including:

● Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA)
● Cone Dystrophy
● Cone Rod Dystrophy
● Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP)
● Stargardt’s Disease
● Maclaren Dystrophy
● Congenital Stationary Blindness
● Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy
● Bardet-Biedl Syndrome
● Usher Syndrome
● Choroideremia
● Achromatopsia
● Bestrophinopathy

The DrSeq IRD panel includes 850 genes and thousands of known and novel variants, providing superior diagnostic accuracy. The test helps identify the genetic mutations responsible for specific IRD types, which is critical for tailoring treatment options, including gene therapy. The significance of genetic testing is growing as gene therapies advance. These tests enable patients to qualify for clinical trials or access targeted treatments tailored to their genetic profiles.

In collaboration with LV Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI), DST (Department of Science and Technology) of the Government of India and Korean partners, including Seoul Eye Hospital, Nucleome Informatics has developed the DrSeq IRD panel by sequencing 300 IRD patients and 200 healthy family members from India. A similar study was conducted using Korean patient samples, further validating the panel’s efficacy across populations. One of the unique aspects of the DrSeq IRD panel is its saliva-based collection method, which eliminates the need for blood samples. Patients can easily provide samples from the comfort of their homes using a saliva collection kit, which will be analyzed at Nucleome’s state-of-the-art laboratory in Hyderabad.

Mr. Dushyant Singh Baghel, CEO of Nucleome Informatics, announced the launch of this innovative test during his participation in a conference at Stanford University, San Francisco. Mr. Baghel expressed his excitement about making the test available in India and shortly globally. He said, “The DrSeq IRD panel marks a significant step forward in tackling the challenges posed by Inherited Retinal Diseases. With this test, we aim to enhance early detection, improve treatment options, and support gene therapy initiatives worldwide. Nucleome Informatics is actively seeking distribution partners globally, as well as gene therapy companies that are targeting IRDs such as Leber Congenital Amaurosis, Stargardt’s Disease, Retinitis Pigmentosa, and other conditions covered by the DrSeq IRD panel”.

The company extends its gratitude to the Technology Development Board, DST, Government of India, LV Prasad Eye Institute, and Korean counterparts for their support in making this project a reality.

Free Homeo Camp

Hyderabad, September 08, 2024: Free Homeo Camp is organised in the backdrop of the city being gripped with Dengue, Chikungunya, Malaria & Viral Fevers.

The top Experts from Allopathy & AYUSH will address the Prevention, Treatment & Post Fever Care etc. It will be held at the Federation House in Red Hills on 12th September at 4 pm.

There will be a Free Homeopathic Consultation & Medicine distribution by the Experts from the Govt Medical College from 2 pm to 5 pm on the same day.

Health-conscious people are urged to attend with their spouse.

Hyderabad, September 07, 2024: Minister of Women and Child Welfare, Government of Telangana Smt Sethakka and film star and popular comedian Mr Ali launched a T-shirt and Finishers’ Medal for The World’s Largest Cancer Awareness Run “Quambiant Global Grace Cancer Run-2024” in a function held at Hotel Daspall in Jubilee Hills on Friday evening.

Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli, the president of the Grace Cancer Foundation; Dr. Pavan Gorukanti, Director, of Yashoda Hospitals Group, Ramesh Kaza, Secretary General of the SCSC; Prashant Nandella, President of HYSEA (Hyderabad Software Enterprises Association); Krupakar Reddy, Race Director; Dr Prameela Rani Sunkavalli; Yogendranath from Quambiant Developers, Ajay Mishra, a retired IAS Officer, Mr Sujatha Rao, Founder Trustee and former senior police officer graced the launch.

The run is to be held on 6th October at Gachibowli, with over 1 lakh participants from across 130 countries through Physical and Virtual Modes. The run is planned to raise funds to deploy free cancer screening for poor people.

Addressing immediately after the launch, Smt Seethakaa said Doctors can treat a disease, but comedians like Mr. Ali with his comedy can treat all sorts of diseases. Dr Chinna Babu, referring to the Founder and President of Grace Cancer Foundation the Minister said, that though his name sounds ‘small'(Chinna in Telugu), he is doing many ‘big’ and ‘great’ things.

Very few people in the past used to get cancer. Now anybody and everybody and everywhere can get Cancer, she added. Awareness and screening is the only way forward. It must begin in remote places that have no clue why cancer comes. Prevention is better than cure. We must declare war against cancer. We must throw cancer away from society and form our lives. The medical fraternity must invest time, talent and treasure in deeper research to know the exact causes of cancer, she said.

The Comedian Mr. Ali said Dr. Chinnababu is a doctor with a service bent of mind, which is a rare combination to be found nowadays. We pray to God with folded hands, and we also pray to doctors with the same folded hands. Doctors are no less than gods. Without exception, everybody has to seek the services of doctors in their respective lives. Dr Chinna Babu is a great and big personality quite in contrast to his name. I have acted in 1250 films in six languages for forty-five years making people laugh, and smile. Laughter is the best medicine, he added.

Dr. Pavan Gorukanti urged the media to amplify the message of screening for early cancer detection. Besides screening early, one needs to reduce calorie intake or fasting, increase physical activity and reduce obesity. Daily physical activity will keep you fit and reduce the chances of getting 90% of lifestyle diseases.

The 7th edition of the run with the theme “Run for Grace Screen for Life” will have a participation of over 1 lakh people from 130 plus countries, disclosed Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli, Senior Consultant Robotic Surgical Oncologist and the Founder of GRACE (Global Research and Cancer Education) Cancer Foundation.

The Run will be held in three different categories—2K, 5K& 10K, over 20,000 participants are expected to participate in the event to be held in Gachibowli, informed Krupakar Reddy, the Race Director.

The run will be organised by GRACE Cancer Foundation, a Hyderabad-based non-profit organisation founded to alleviate the burden of cancer through education, early detection, treatment, rehabilitation, and cutting-edge research. Every participant not only gets to run their favourite distance, but they also help a good cause by donating a portion of their registration fee to cancer screening and awareness” Dr Chinababu added

The objectives for the Run according to Dr. Chinababu are to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives by creating awareness about Cancer, to promote physical activity as a means to prevent and combat cancer in society and to help people lead active lifestyles and also to raise funds for screening the underprivileged right at their doorstep, for free.

The Grace Cancer Foundation works towards helping marginalized communities fight cancer. Most tumours are treatable if they are detected at an early stage and offered the right treatment. However, most people living in remote and slum areas across the globe are ignorant of this fact, and unfortunately, they are succumbing to it. So, it has been our deepest desire to reach out to the unreached and bring awareness about this disease.

It is baffling that 9.5 million people are losing to cancer every year across the world. So, to prevent more people from falling prey to it, the foundation has been conducting free screening camps, cancer awareness talks, and cancer runs in 10 countries, covering 4 continents.

Quambiant Developers, Rayn, AMCHAM India, HYSEA and SCSC, Natco, WindStream, LIC, Movers.com, CIRO, Nirmaam & CII, BMS and Yashoda Hospitals and others are supporting the event.

For more information, please visit www.gracecancerfoundation.org

Bangkok/New Delhi, 3 September 2024: Across Asia and the Pacific, millions of women are employed in the garment and manufacturing sectors – the majority are young, often migrants, and from low-income families with limited access to healthcare and education. These issues are compounded by a lack of access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services, which directly affects their health, job retention, and productivity.

As the world marks Sexual Health Day, UNFPA Asia-Pacific calls on businesses across the region to prioritize investments in sexual and reproductive health and rights, particularly in labour-intensive sectors such as garment and textile factories. Evidence shows that supporting women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights in the workplace can drive significant economic and productivity gains, while fostering healthier, more engaged employees.

UNFPA’s Return on Investment Tool (ROI-T) provides businesses with a concrete framework to assess the financial returns of investing in sexual and reproductive health and rights in the workplace. The tool demonstrates that workplace programmes addressing women’s health issues – including menstrual health, anemia and sexual and reproductive health – offer health improvements and significant cost savings for companies.

UNFPA has trained 75 private sector companies in the Philippines to provide family planning sessions for female employees, developed awareness-raising resources for trainers on gender-based violence in South Asia’s largest lingerie manufacturing factory based in Sri Lanka, and is collaborating with garment manufacturers in Bangladesh to ensure workers have access to essential health services.

“Businesses that invest in the health and well-being of their employees are positioning themselves for long-term economic success. The data is clear: when women’s sexual and reproductive health needs are met, companies reap substantial financial rewards, creating a win-win scenario for both businesses and their employees, with improved productivity, reduced absenteeism and staff turnover, and overall employees’ job satisfaction,” said Mr. Pio Smith, UNFPA Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific.

One compelling example of the economic and social benefits of investments in sexual and reproductive health and rights is at Shahi Exports, India’s largest apparel manufacturer, where its Project Pravah, a menstrual health initiative, has provided support to the needs of its predominantly female workforce.

The latest case study, ‘The Health and Economic Benefits of Investing in a Menstrual Health Programme in the Workplace,’ was developed to assess the benefits of Project Pravah and, by using the ROI-T, to demonstrate the financial benefits of expanding the project to one additional Shahi factory.

By providing biometric-enabled sanitary pad vending machines and delivering comprehensive awareness training on women’s health issues, Shahi witnessed a 22 per cent increase in the use of sanitary pads and a 15 per cent decrease in women feeling unwell during their menstrual cycle. Based on ROI-T projections, the estimated return should Shahi decide to expand the project to another one of its factories is US$2.90 for every US$1 invested.

“As an employer of over 100,000 employees, 70 per cent of whom are women, Shahi understands the unique health and well-being needs of our workforce. Recognizing the direct impact on personal and professional development, we’ve adopted a systemic and evidence-based approach towards- worker well-being. By collaborating with researchers and global organizations, we have designed and conducted test interventions to scale up programmes that truly address the diverse needs of our employees, with a special focus on women’s health and well-being” said Deepak Rautela, Associate Vice President of Organizational Development at Shahi.

UNFPA’s ROI-T underscores the economic viability of such programmes and serves as a tool for companies to calculate their own potential benefits from similar investments.

“Working in partnership with UNFPA, we have been able to design programmes that prioritize the health and well-being of women in the workforce, making a measurable difference in employee well-being, especially women’s health, and businesses benefits from such investments,” added Lavanya Garg, Director, Partnerships and People Operations from Good Business Lab.

As the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, UNFPA advocates for companies across the region, and beyond, to take action by leveraging the use of the ROI-T and adopting sexual and reproductive health and rights programmes that can generate lasting health and economic benefits.

30th August 2024: Fatigue and daytime sleepiness are common issues that can undermine productivity and well-being. Multivitamins loaded with key minerals like B-complex vitamins, vitamin D, and iron provide a solution for boosting energy and focus. These essential vitamins work together to reduce fatigue, improve cognitive function, and promote the body’s natural energy production. By including these nutrients in your daily routine, you can safely combat weariness, stay intellectually alert, and live an active lifestyle throughout the day.

1. Diataal D

Diataal D has a comprehensive blend of 6 essential vitamins and 7 minerals, carefully created to meet your daily nutritional requirements. Diataal D promotes general health and well-being by including Vitamin D, known for its function in bone health and immunity, as well as ALA (alpha lipoic acid), which is known for its antioxidant effects. Whether you need an energy boost or want to sustain an active lifestyle, these nutrients will keep you revitalized, focused, and ready to tackle the day.

2. Nutradwin Multivita:

Nutradwin’s Multivitamin Capsules are a convenient source of vital nutrients that can help you lead a healthier, less stressful life. The capsules are ideal for adults, as this supplement naturally boosts energy levels, supports immunological function, and promotes heart health with essential minerals. Enjoy increased energy, stamina, and overall wellness as part of your daily routine. These easy-to-swallow tablets are suitable for both men and women and cater to busy lifestyles, helping you stay energized and perform at your best every day.

3. Supradyn:

With a blend of key vitamins and minerals, Supradyn stimulates the immune system and provides essential nutrients that improve overall well-being and wellness. It also promotes the health of the skin, hair, and nails by including essential vitamins like biotin and E. Supradyn also improves cognitive function and mental awareness.

4. Centrum:

Centrum Adult 50+ Multivitamin & Multimineral Supplement promotes overall health. It contains 23 essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium and vitamin D3, which maintain strong joints and bone health. This supplement contains a botanical blend of Boswellia Serrata. It builds up infection defenses through the inclusion of immune-boosting Vitamin C, D3, B12, and Zinc. Vitamin C, E, and B vitamins also improve cardiovascular health. Centrum Tablets are completely vegetarian and non-habit forming.

5. Zinga Vita:

Zingavita Multivitamin with Prebiotics and Probiotics provides all-around support, with each tablet containing 100% of the recommended daily intake of key vitamins and minerals. Ideal for vegetarians, each bottle offers 120 tablets for long-term nutritional support. This combination improves immunity, stamina, cognitive and visual health, digestive health, and bone density. It contains minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, vitamin D3, and K for bone and muscle health, as well as vitamins C, E, and biotin for skin and hair.