Category health

Hyderabad, July 26, 2024: The three-day ‘TCT India 2024’ – India’s premier Interventional Cardiology Conference – organized by FACTS Foundation – a non-profit organisation of Cardiologists and Cardiac Surgeons, committed to newer research, innovation, education and training; in association with Apollo Hospitals and Cardiovascular Research Foundation, (CRF) USA; will be held from July 26th to 28th, 2024 at the HICC, Hyderabad. Over 1200 delegates comprising of cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons from across India, South Asia and abroad, will be attending the conference. Distinguished faculty including 100 from India and 30 from abroad will showcase and enlighten the delegates with the latest advances in interventional cardiology. Chief Guest Dr Sangita Reddy, Jt. Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals; will inaugurate the TCT India 2024 conference on Friday.

The Conference will have sessions in various Interventional techniques like Hemodynamics, Intracoronary Imaging, Calcium Management, TAVR and other newer Innovations. There will be focused Live case-based learnings with nine live cases from USA, Germany and Australia and 12 live in box cases from various centres spread across India making it a truly Pan India National Event. Live cases will be followed by live case learning points, interactions and related lectures including interesting topics like Future of Structural Heart Interventions; Role of newer devices and interventions in Heart Failure management; Newer Canadian Classification of Acute MI & its relevance in clinical practice; Lifestyle and medical therapies for hypertension; and more.

Dr A. Sreenivas Kumar speaking on the occasion said, this is now the largest Conference of Interventional Cardiologists, with 400 delegates from India and abroad attending it. Several special techniques to deal with cardiac problems which hitherto needed cardiac surgery can be done today by interventional cardiology, through minor aperture, saving the patient from trauma, morbidity, and mortality. In the past when arteries were totally blocked, surgery was mandatory, now there are special techniques to clear the blocked arteries, several such new techniques will be demonstrated and deliberated in this conference. One of the interesting topics for deliberation is, how to survive without getting heart attack for over 100 years, there is a magic drug which if taken as a vaccination every six months, heart attacks can be prevented. Stress, smoking, dietary habits, lifestyle changes are the cause for rise in the incidence of heart attacks. Some have a family history of high cholesterol leading to heart problems, there is relief for such patients with a new injection, which if taken like insulin can significantly reduce cholesterol and prevent heart attacks. It’s difficult to acquire so much knowledge from the most eminent specialists under one roof, this platform brings all of them together and makes the knowledge available in a nutshell to the delegates. The conference overall will address and educate the delegates on the latest techniques beneficial to the patients in terms of speedy recovery and being inexpensive to the possible extent.

Dr M Gokul Reddy, Sr Consultant Cardiologist, Apollo Hospitals, Jubilee Hills; said, the main objective of this Conference is to equip the youngsters in the latest techniques and make them efficient. We are adopting a deep diving training here, wherein each delegate will be trained from basics to the most complex of the aspects.

Dr PC Rath, Sr. Cardiologist, Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad; said, TCT is the largest interventional council meeting in the world and Hyderabad is privileged to host such internationally acknowledged conference. This Conference attracts the best of the faculty showcasing the most latest techniques and the delegates equally look forward for this Conference every year, to learn the new techniques.

The renowned national and international faculty comprises of Dr Susheel Kumar Kodali M.D., Co-director, NYP/Columbia Valve Center Columbia University Medical Center USA; Dr A. Sreenivas Kumar, Director Cardiology & Clinical Research, Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad; Dr Ajay J. Kirtane, Director, Columbia University Medical Center / New York-Presbyterian Hospital; Dr Martin B. Leon, Director of Cardiovascular Research and Education, Columbia University Medical Center / New York-Presbyterian Hospital; Dr Juan Granada, President & CEO Cardiovascular Research Foundation NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY; Dr M Gokul Reddy, Sr Consultant Cardiologist, Apollo Hospitals, Jubilee Hills; Dr Ravinay Bhindi, North Shore Hospital, NSW, Australia; Dr Joanna Wykrzykowska, University Medical Center Groningen, Netherlands; Dr Miroslaw Ferenc, University Heart Center Freiburg, Germany; Dr Guilherme Attizzani, Cleveland University, USA; Dr Pratap Kumar, Meditrina Group of Hospitals, Maldives, Dr Saibal Kar, Los Robles Hospital, USA; Dr Ashish Pershad, Chandler Regional Medical Center, USA; Dr Fazilla Mallik, NHC, Bangladesh; Dr Geza Fontos, Gottsegen National Cardiovascular Center, Hungary; among others.

New Delhi, 25th July 2024: Jindal IVF, a leading institute in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), has announced the celebration of IVF Week from July 22nd to 27th. This initiative aligns with World IVF Day, observed globally on July 25th, commemorating the remarkable advancements in infertility treatment and reproductive endocrinology.

Throughout IVF Week, Jindal IVF will offer a range of complimentary services to support individuals and couples exploring IVF as a pathway to parenthood. These services include free IVF counselling sessions, a free first consultation, and a complimentary first ultrasound. These initiatives are designed to provide valuable information and support, making the journey towards parenthood more accessible and less daunting. The free services will be available at Jindal Clinics, located at Old Cloth Market, SCO 21, Sector 20 D, Near Shri Guru Ravi Dass Bhawan, Dakshin Marg, Chandigarh, 160020.

The week-long celebration will feature a series of events and activities led by Jindal IVF’s esteemed medical experts. These professionals will share their extensive knowledge and experience, ensuring participants receive the highest standard of care and information. The activities aim to educate and support the community, offering insights into the latest advancements in In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). To ensure that the community is well-informed about the free services and events during IVF Week, Jindal IVF is utilizing a robust awareness campaign. Details about the camp are being posted on Jindal’s social media platforms and the official Jindal IVF website, encouraging widespread participation and engagement. This strategy aims to reach a broad audience, making sure that those in need of these services are aware and can take advantage of them.

Commenting on the initiative, Dr. Sheetal Jindal, Senior Consultant and IVF-PGT expert at Jindal IVF, stated, “IVF Week at Jindal IVF represents a crucial opportunity to address and demystify the challenges of infertility. Our primary goal is to raise awareness about the advanced treatments available and to offer much-needed support and hope to individuals and couples navigating their journey to parenthood. We are also acutely aware of the stigma that often surrounds infertility, which can exacerbate mental health challenges for those affected. By providing free consultations and educational resources, we aim to break down these barriers and foster a more supportive and informed community. We invite couples who are struggling to conceive to participate in this week of awareness and take the first step toward realizing their dreams of building a family, free from the constraints of judgment and misinformation.”

As a pioneer in IVF in North India, Jindal IVF stands out for its exceptional expertise and state-of-the-art facilities. With a team of the most experienced IVF specialists in the region, the institute is renowned for its advanced IVF solutions and cutting-edge lab technology. Over the years, Jindal IVF has successfully delivered more than 12,000 babies, highlighting its commitment to excellence and its pivotal role in transforming lives through innovative reproductive care.

July 25, 2024 – In recognition of World IVF Day, Oasis Fertility, announced the launch of its groundbreaking awareness campaign, ” Break the Test Tube & Break the Taboo,” across all its centers. This initiative aims to challenge societal stigmas associated with In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and to promote awareness about the advancements and safety of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART).

Breaking the Stigma Surrounding IVF

The “Break the Test Tube & Break The Taboo” campaign is rooted in the understanding that societal perceptions often label IVF as an unnatural and lesser form of conception. Such views can discourage individuals and couples from seeking the fertility help they need. Oasis Fertility is committed to dispelling these myths and demonstrating that IVF, backed by advanced science and technology, is a safe and effective method of achieving pregnancy.

Dr. Durga G Rao, Co-founder and Medical Director, Oasis Fertility, said, “IVF is much more than a test tube baby. Over the past 50 years, ART has evolved tremendously, incorporating various scientific techniques such as Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) and Endometrial Receptivity Array (ERA). These advancements ensure that IVF is as natural and safe as any other pregnancy method.”

To address critical gaps in women’s health in India, particularly in preventive care and preconception counselling. We empower first-time mothers with doctor-reviewed pregnancy care information, reducing pregnancy risks and enhancing maternal health outcomes,” she added.

To further encourage individuals to overcome societal taboos and seek fertility treatment, Oasis Fertility is offering a special 15% discount on spot IVF bookings made between July 25th and 28th at all of their of their centres, spread across Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Pune, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Chennai, Vadodara, Raipur, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar and other towns in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka & Maharashtra. This offer includes all necessary medications and cannot be combined with other promotional offers. By offering this discount, we hope to make fertility treatments more accessible and encourage people to take the first step towards fulfilling their dream of parenthood.

Oasis Fertility stands at the forefront of using cutting-edge scientific practices to ensure the birth of healthy babies. The campaign underscores the importance of viewing IVF through the lens of modern science rather than outdated societal notions. By highlighting the safety, efficacy, and natural aspects of IVF, Oasis aims to make the idea of seeking fertility help more acceptable and less intimidating.

This World IVF Day, Oasis Fertility encourages you to talk about fertility issues and the assistance available through scientific advances in IVF & other advanced reproductive technologies. Inviting everyone to take a pledge to shatter the stereotypes, break the taboo & bust the myths around IVF and spread awareness about the science of fertility, with empathy and love for all the beautiful couples who are just waiting to hold their baby in their arms.

24th July 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  To create awareness and enable knowledge-sharing around Venous diseases, in order to drive better patient care BD (Becton, Dickinson, and Company) conducted roadshows across New Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore recently. Venous disease is a condition where the veins in the body have difficulty returning blood to the heart, thereby resulting in blood clot forming in a vein, typically in the legs. If left untreated, these clots can break loose and travel to the lungs, causing serious complications. Delayed detection and intervention can lead to worsened clinical outcomes and a multitude of problems for both patients and healthcare professionals.

The 3-day Venous Summit witnessed a series of Technology Innovation Forums followed by Symposiums driven by Dr. Houman Jalaie, Head of Venous Commission of German Society of Vascular Surgery and Deputy Head of Department of Vascular & Endovascular Surgery, University Hospital Aachen, Germany and over 40 prominent faculty from Interventional Radiology, Vascular Surgery from ~12 cities across India. Attended by 200+ delegates with 13 case-presenters who drove 8.5 hours of scientific discussions each day, the end objective of the Summit was to discuss best domestic and international practices in order to drive better patient care in the venous domain in India.

Commenting on this initiative to establish Standard of care for Venous disease patients in India, Atul Grover, Managing Director, India, South Asia, “Venous Diseases are slow progressive diseases which exist very commonly but often go untreated owing to low levels of awareness and lack of diagnosis. Through our Venous Summit, in partnership with experts like Dr. Houman Jalaie we are bringing the focus on Venous ailments as well as providing a platform to healthcare experts from across the country to establish a uniform quality care protocol to enable better patient care. This initiative is aligned with BD’s purpose of advancing the world of health by delivering superior patient outcomes.”

Dr. Houman Jalaie shared his knowledge with healthcare professionals through a series of events which touched upon the following areas:

• Uniform treatment algorithms in Post-Thrombotic Syndrome and NIVL management
• Approaches to learn and adapt from current International and National best practices in Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Management
• How novel technologies, like mechanical thrombectomy, can improve the patient outcomes in complex venous diseases

Reflecting on his experience, Dr. Jalaie said, “As a healthcare professional, there is nothing more important for me than the safety and wellbeing of my patients. I was delighted to interact with so many like-minded senior doctors from all over India to discuss the right strategies to enable better patient outcomes.”

Every year over 2 million patients in India suffer from some form of Venous disease, however, due to less awareness, many patients go undiagnosed or untreated.

23rd July 2024, Mumbai – Neurological disorders, both fatal and non-fatal, are among the leading contributors to the burden of non-communicable and communicable diseases in India. As we celebrated world Brain day yesterday 22nd July Neurological experts have shown serious concern about Neurological Disorders in India. The theme of World Brain Day is changed every year. This time the theme of World Brain Day 2024 is “Brain Health and Prevention”. This year’s theme of World Brain Day emphasizes the importance of proactively addressing the risk factors, early detection and effective management of neurological diseases as well as the mission to spread global education on prevention strategies. On the occasion of World Brain Day Dr. Joshi’s Neurotrauma Center has conducted a check-up and consultation camp in thane.

Commenting on this Dr. Joshi’s Neurotrauma Center Director and Senior Neurosurgeon Dr. Vinayak Joshi says, “If you are wondering what is the significance of World Brain Day, then let us tell you that people have to become aware of brain related diseases and conditions. So that people can be informed about the importance of brain health and the symptoms of neurological diseases can be identified and treated on time. Even today people are very less aware about brain related diseases due to which it takes the form of a serious disease in the future. In which lakhs of people die every year only due to brain related diseases. Genetics, stress and our lifestyle play major roles in brain health, but diet cannot be ignored. What we eat affects not only our weight but also our brain. Therefore, we should not ignore “brain foods”. There is no food that can protect against age-related diseases like dementia, but our brain needs good & quality food for better concentration throughout the day.”

Dr. Joshi’s Neurotrauma Center Director and Senior Neurosurgeon Dr. Vinayak Joshi further added, neurological disorders have become a serious public health challenge in India, affecting millions of people suffering from diseases such as stroke, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and multiple sclerosis. It is important for a person to get adequate sleep to feel fresh. To keep the body healthy, it is necessary to take 8 to 10 hours of sleep. So sleep is also very important for brain health. Scientists’ research found that when humans sleep at night their mind does the work of cleaning. The brain starts working on the waste disposal system. The brain expels waste material from the glymphatic while sleeping. The glymphatic system is strongly correlated to sleep processes. Sleep helps the glymphatic system remove brain waste. Astrocytes expand and contract to form channels for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to wash through the brain and eliminate waste.Along with this, the brain organizes its neurons while sleeping. So at the same time it also maintains your stress level.

 Another important non-communicable neurological disorder that needs the attention of policymakers is epilepsy. Globally, around 50 million people have epilepsy, among whom 10–12 million live in India. The prevalence estimates in India for 2019 range from 3·0 to 11·9 per 1000 of the population and incidence from 0·2 to 0·6 per 1000 of the population per year, with a major contribution from the rural population. In several other countries, new treatments such as monoclonal antibodies are being introduced and applied for particular neurological disorders, including migraine, multiple sclerosis, and other demyelinating conditions, but in India, the use of these costly medicines needs government funding, to provide for people in the low-income group at affordable cost.

Bengaluru, July 22, 2024 – CBM India, a leading organization dedicated to disability-inclusive development, has organized the distribution of essential equipment to strengthen community eye health services in Nandhagudi, in the Bengaluru Rural District.

Forty community health workers, including ASHA workers, auxiliary nurse midwives, and community health officers, received a kit equipped with a backpack, vision charts, a measuring tape, a water bottle, a notepad, and a pen, allowing them to conduct essential eye screenings directly within the community. To ensure effective utilization of the kits, CBM India organized a training session for community healthcare workers on conducting doorstep eye screenings using the provided equipment. This training enabled them to identify potential vision problems and ensure that those who need further care will be directed to the right specialists.

Additionally, as part of the event, CBM India distributed assistive devices to address the needs of persons with disabilities. Seven wheelchairs, three assistive canes, and one commode chair were provided to persons with disabilities in the community.

Talking at the event, Mr. Sony Thomas, Executive Director, CBM India Trust, commented, “Early detection and intervention are crucial for preventing vision loss. At CBM India, we are committed to ensuring that no one in our community is left behind when it comes to timely access to quality eye care. By equipping community health workers with the necessary tools and training, and providing assistive devices to persons with disabilities, we are taking a significant step towards enhancing eye health and improving the overall well-being of the people of Nandhagudi and the neighboring villages.”

By empowering both healthcare workers at the grassroots and persons with disabilities, CBM India is fostering a more inclusive and accessible healthcare ecosystem.

This initiative, implemented by CBM India as part of a Corporate Social Responsibility program, recognizes the challenges that rural communities face in accessing affordable quality eye care services. Over the past year, it reached over 10,000 people through eye screening, around 300 cataract surgeries were facilitated, and more than 700 spectacles were distributed.

The program aligns with and in support of the National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment (NPCB-VI).

22nd July 2024  Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India  Dispelling misconceptions surrounding varicose veins, experts at Sri Ramakrishna Hospital delve into the condition’s nuances, offering insights into symptoms, symptom management, and prevention strategies.

Varicose veins, predominantly affecting the lower limbs, stem from weakened or damaged veins, disrupting blood flow to the heart. Contrary to common belief, they extend beyond cosmetic concerns, potentially leading to discomfort and health complications.

Identifying Symptoms:

• Visible, enlarged veins in the legs
• Leg throbbing or cramping
• Leg pain or achiness
• Sensation of leg heaviness
• Leg swelling
• Skin color changes around affected veins

Effective Management Tips:

• Engage in regular circulation – promoting exercises like walking or swimming.
• Elevate legs above heart level during rest to alleviate swelling and enhance circulation.
• Utilize compression stockings to enhance blood flow and alleviate symptoms.
• Maintain a balanced, nutrient-rich diet to support vascular health.
• Avoid prolonged periods of sitting or standing to prevent blood pooling in the legs.

Preventive Measures:

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on veins.
• Avoid tight clothing that impedes blood flow, particularly around the waist and legs.
• Stay hydrated to support circulation and vein health.
• Quit smoking to mitigate vascular issues.
• Schedule regular checkups with vascular specialists for proactive monitoring and timely intervention.

Dispelling Myths:

1. Myth: Varicose veins are untreatable.
Fact: Medical advancements offer effective treatments, rendering this myth obsolete.

2. Myth: Varicose veins are solely cosmetic concerns.
Fact: Beyond aesthetics, varicose veins can impact overall health, emphasizing the need for prompt treatment.

3. Myth: Varicose veins exclusively affect women.
Fact: While common in women, men are also susceptible to varicose veins.

4. Myth: Varicose veins only afflict the elderly.
Fact: Varicose veins can develop at any age due to various factors, not just aging.

While often asymptomatic, varicose veins warrant attention and care. Sri Ramakrishna Hospital offers advanced, outpatient treatments, ensuring comfort and accessibility for individuals seeking relief from symptoms and complications associated with varicose veins.

A 31-year-old woman visited Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central presented with primary infertility of seven years due to polycystic ovaries and her husband’s oligoasthenozoospermia (OATS). Under Dr RanaChoudhary, Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist&Fertility Specialist, the patient conceived via in-vitro fertilization (IVF), and all embryos were frozen. In a subsequent cycle, she underwent frozen embryo transfer (FET) and conceived a singleton. Her antenatal course was uneventful, but at 26 weeks, she reported heaviness and discomfort in the lower abdomen and vulva. Examination revealed a 26-week-sized uterus with no uterine contractions and a fetal heart rate of 140 beats per minute. A transvaginalsonography (TVS) revealed a short cervix (2.3 cm) with a closed internal Os.

Given her symptoms, she was started on vaginal progesterone suppositories and advised bed rest. A repeat TVS after 10 days showed no change in cervical length. Monitoring continued biweekly, and at 30.2 weeks, her cervical length reduced to 1.32 cm. She was admitted, and given head-low bed positioning, complete bed rest, intravenous antibiotics, and oral probiotics. An emergency cervical cerclage was performed under spinal anesthesia using the modified Shirodkar technique. Post-surgery, she was discharged after two days with a recommendation for rest.

Subsequent sonography showed maintained cervical length with the cerclage in place. At around 35-36 weeks, cervical funnelling was observed. The cerclage stitch was removed at 37 weeks, leading to spontaneous labor and the delivery of a healthy male baby with an Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity and Respiration (APGAR) score of 9/10. The postpartum period was uneventful.

Cervical incompetence, a leading cause of late miscarriages and preterm labor, is often diagnosed retrospectively after multiple poor obstetric outcomes. Symptoms may include mild abdominal cramping, backache, pelvic pressure, or vaginal discharge. High-risk women, particularly those with prior second-trimester losses or cervical surgeries, benefit from routine TVS for early diagnosis and management.

Previously, cervical incompetence was assessed through methods like hysterosalpingography and dilator assessments, which are now obsolete. Today, TVS is the gold standard for diagnosing cervical incompetence. A cervical length of 25mm or less on TVS, with or without funneling, indicates incompetence. Immediate management can prevent preterm delivery and improve neonatal outcomes.

Conservative methods like bed rest and progesterone supplementation have limited efficacy. Surgical interventions, such as McDonald’s and modified Shirodkarcerclage, are more effective. McDonald cerclage involves placing multiple sutures high in the cervix, while Shirodkarcerclage places the stitch close to the internal os after mucosal dissection. In emergencies, Trendelenburg positioning and a Foley catheter may help. Transabdominalcerclage is reserved for severe cases with prior failures, requiring laparotomy for suture removal or fetal delivery.

Early identification and management of cervical incompetence, particularly in high-risk women, are crucial. Routine TVS during anomaly scans and attention to symptoms like lower abdominal heaviness and vaginal discharge can prevent preterm deliveries and improve neonatal morbidity and mortality.

20th July 2024  Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India  Established 15 years ago, Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals Kaushambi has emerged as a beacon of excellence in healthcare across North India. From its inception, the hospital has been dedicated to providing affordable yet world-class healthcare services adhering to the highest standards of medical ethics and compassion.

Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals accommodates healthcare professionals across a spectrum of medical disciplines providing exceptional medical and clinical services along with high-quality education and training opportunities. Over the years, they have solidified their position as a leading institution in India’s healthcare sector, distinguished for their expertise in specialized treatments, intricate surgeries, international standards, and advanced infrastructure. Yashoda’s commitment extends to serving communities with outstanding patient care marked by compassionate dedication and significant efforts.

The hospital’s ethos revolves around care and concern for patients and their families, commitment to continuous learning, teamwork, integrity in all internal operations, and pursuit of excellence through skilful execution. This philosophy not only guides the hospital’s daily operations but also inspires its medical professionals to excel in their fields.

Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure equipped with the latest technological advancements. This includes advanced diagnostic facilities, modern surgical theatres, and specialized treatment units for complex surgeries and super-specialty treatments. The hospital’s dedication to staying at the forefront of medical innovation has earned it accolades and recognitions, including being ranked 1st in the Times Health Survey’s All India Critical Care Hospital Ranking Survey for the NOIDA and Ghaziabad Zone in 2022, and 12th in the Multi-specialty Hospitals category for the Northern Region Zone.

In addition to its clinical excellence, Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals is renowned for its compassionate approach to patient care. Every member of the hospital’s staff is committed to ensuring that each patient receives personalized attention and the highest quality of medical treatment.

Under chairman, Dr. P N Arora’s visionary leadership, Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals has grown to become a comprehensive healthcare system offering multispecialty tertiary care services. Dr. Arora’s commitment to quality patient care and innovative healthcare solutions has been instrumental in shaping the hospital’s journey toward excellence.

“Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals is committed to integrating cutting-edge technology with compassionate patient care. Our mission is to deliver world-class healthcare services with a focus on quality, service excellence, empathy, and world-class healthcare services. Our vision is to create a comprehensive and integrated healthcare facility that not only treats illnesses but also promotes overall well-being. We aim to continue expanding our capabilities and services to meet the evolving healthcare needs of our community,” adds Dr. P N Arora.

Over the years, some of the prestigious awards and accolades Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals has garnered include the AHPI Healthcare Excellence Award for “Best Hospital to Work For” and the 1st prize in Swachh Survekshan 2022 in the Ghaziabad zone. These accolades are a testament to the hospital’s commitment to excellence in healthcare delivery and patient satisfaction.

Yashoda Super Speciality Hospital reaffirms its dedication to providing accessible, affordable, and top-notch healthcare services to the people of India. With a solid foundation built on integrity, compassion, and innovation the hospital looks forward to continuing its journey as a leader in the healthcare industry, setting new benchmarks for excellence and patient care. These efforts collectively contribute to establishing Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals as a premier healthcare provider in the Delhi NCR region.

Bengaluru, India, 19th July 2024 – Abbott, the global healthcare leader, launched its ‘Chakkar Ko Check Kar’ campaign in India to highlight an often-overlooked balance disorder, vertigo, which affects close to 70 million people in India. Vertigo is a condition that can make people feel like the world is spinning around them. Through this campaign, Abbott aims to help people take control of their health and better manage the condition.

To give the world a window into the disorienting reality of vertigo, Abbott kickstarted the campaign through a digital film, which features Bollywood actor and UNICEF India Ambassador, Ayushmann Khurrana. It paints a vivid picture of how vertigo’s sudden spinning episodes can throw life off balance, urging those who resonate with these experiences to take action.

Ayushmann Khurrana, sharing his personal experience with vertigo, said, “Dealing with vertigo has been a challenge, but it taught me the power of resilience. Diagnosed in 2016, every sudden movement made the world spin around me. Amidst demanding film schedules, the constant fear of an impending dizzy spell was daunting. However, finding the right medication and embracing meditation helped me manage my condition completely. While it can feel like a tough condition to manage but it’s crucial to remember that it’s a battle you can win. I hope my journey inspires others to seek the help they need and navigate life with renewed confidence.”

His experience is not uncommon. There are millions suffering from this condition silently and confusing it for a normal chakkar. Getting the right diagnosis and treatment at the right time and making key lifestyle changes is important to manage this condition and stay in control of your health.

Dr Jejoe Karankumar, Medical Director, Abbott India added, “Around 70 million Indians experience vertigo. While this balance disorder can affect people’s quality of life, it can be managed. Abbott aims to simplify the journey of people living with vertigo by raising awareness and empowering them with knowledge and tools that can help recognize signs of the condition, to get timely medical advice and support and live fulfilling lives.”

An integral part of the campaign is the survey conducted by Abbott in collaboration with IQVIA. The survey findings help understand the realities of people living with vertigo in India. This survey was conducted across Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, and Kolkata, with insights from 1,250 respondents. These included vertigo patients and caregivers as well as people with family members experiencing dizziness and are not yet diagnosed with the condition.

Vertigo: A Significant Struggle

Imagine a world that spins uncontrollably, causing headaches, double vision, and a blackout feeling. This is the reality for those living with vertigo. The Abbott and IQVIA survey sheds light on how this condition impacts people’s lives, personally, and for people around them too.

• Personal Life: Vertigo doesn’t just cause spinning. It has significant impact on personal lives, with 34% cancelling important events, 33% experiencing frequent anger or annoyance, and 26% fearing damage to their relationships with family members.
• Triggers: The leading triggers of vertigo are anxiety or stress (39%), travelling (34%), and changes in weather (30%).
• Symptoms: Each vertigo episode can bring a range of symptoms, including headaches (52%), double vision (43%), a blackout feeling (40%), heaviness in the head (37%), and neck pain (28%).
• Family Life and Travel: Vertigo can affect patients’ abilities to look after their family (23%) and reduces family quality time (23%). It also creates discomfort when using public transport or air travel (19%).

Despite its effects, only 48% of people reporting dizziness get tested for symptoms. On average, vertigo is diagnosed at 38 years of age, with around one fourth of patients experiencing an attack once a month. Certain myths persist around vertigo, with 21% of patients believing that this condition only affects the elderly, and 15% feeling that it is untreatable and contagious. Only half of vertigo patients take medication, despite the far-reaching impact on their personal lives, which can include avoiding to travel in vehicles (34%), and reducing screen time (30%) to minimize the likelihood of a vertigo episode. This data paints a vivid picture of the hidden struggles faced by those living with vertigo.

The survey also uncovered interesting findings Bengaluru specifically. For example, vertigo has a great impact on patients’ professional lives in the region, including affecting concentration resulting in lower performance (31%) and impacting ability to take on more responsibility (22%) as well as career progression (18%). Additionally, vertigo also impacts people’s personal lives in the city: 30% cancel important events, while 35% frequently get angry or annoyed.