Category health

Mumbai / India, 17th July 2024 – Indian Immunologicals Ltd (IIL) led by its Chairman Dr. Meenesh Shah and it’s Managing Director Dr. K. Anand Kumar donated 10,000 doses of its anti-rabies vaccine to the economically backward people of 5 provinces in Vietnam. At a function held in Hanoi chaired by Dr. Huong, Head of the Rabies control programme, Government of Vietnam and participated by many officials from CDC and different provinces and officials from AMV group headed by its CEO Mr. Minh, this generous donation was made.

IIL is truly a “One Health” company engaged in development of vaccines for zoonotic diseases, responsible manufacturing for environmental protection, imparting knowledge and awareness to all stakeholders on diseases and demonstrates with social responsibility. 75% of all emerging and re-emerging diseases are from animal origin and IIL used various technology platforms and developed vaccines against zoonotic diseases such as – “Rabies”, “Brucellosis”, “Leptospira”, “Porcine Cysticercosis”, “Covid-19” etc. Many new vaccines such as “Zika”, “KFD” etc. are under development, against diseases which are Zoonotic in nature. Besides being the largest manufacturer of Anti-Rabies vaccine in the world for both animal and human beings, IIL is spearheading the “One Health” initiative globally.

IIL demonstrated this social responsibility in India by conducting free anti-rabies vaccination camps and vaccination during Zoonosis Day by covering about 1 lakh dogs. An ambitious, Rabies Free Thiruvanathapuram initiative in collaboration with CAWA and MCT is being under progress. IIL provides support to NGOs addressing areas of One health for vaccination and disease control in collaboration with Utkarsh Foundation. As an extension to IIL’s “One Health” and outreach for social good in global stage, IIL has donated 10000 doses of Anti-Rabies vaccine for the backward provinces of Vietnam.

Speaking on the occasion Dr. K. Anand Kumar MD, IIL said “IIL has been supporting many developing countries by supplying vaccines at affordable prices and in Vietnam IIL’s anti rabies vaccine Abhayab is the brand leader having saved several thousands of lives. We have forged a very good partnership with AMV group and DAVAC and have been supplying vaccines in Vietnam for 15 years now”.

Chairman of IIL Dr. Meenesh Shah said that “IIL has been undertaking many social good activities that has benefitted many people across all walks of life. This donation will save lives of people who can’t afford vaccines”.

IIL is one of the leading manufacturers for human and animal health. IIL ranks among the top 10 biopharma companies, among the top 3 animal health companies and no.1 manufacturer of human anti-rabies vaccine globally.

Mumbai, July 17, 2024: CarePal Secure, India’s leading health protection marketplace, has announced its Corporate Agency Agreement with Care Health Insurance. This alliance aims to extend Care Health’s comprehensive health insurance solutions to CarePal Secure customers, including those with pre-existing ailments.

The collaboration integrates Care Health Insurance’s products into CarePal Secure’s extensive offerings, providing robust health coverage to a wider population. It aims to reduce reliance on crowdfunding for medical expenses while offering financial security against unforeseen health costs. Notably, the initiative extends its benefits to people with pre-existing health conditions who often struggle to find adequate coverage.

CarePal Secure’s affiliated crowdfunding platform, Impact Guru, has witnessed a diverse array of patients facing serious health challenges, including cancer, accident-related injuries, and organ transplant requirements. While the incidence of critical illnesses in India has risen significantly, advancements in diagnostics, technology, and medicine have transformed many previously incurable diseases into manageable conditions, with some even becoming curable. Consequently, individuals who were once deemed uninsurable are now considered viable candidates for health insurance coverage.

Speaking on this association, Pankaj Nawani, CEO of CarePal Secure, said, “We are thrilled to partner with Care Health Insurance to bring this vital service to our customers. Our goal is to expand Health coverage not only among the general population but also among ex-patients who are most in need of safeguarding their health but are not sufficiently aware of the options that are available in the market. Towards this goal, we are very happy to have Care Health Insurance as our esteemed partners.”

Ajay Shah, Head of Distribution, Care Health Insurance, said, “We are pleased to partner with CarePal Secure, one of the most trusted healthcare financing platforms in India. Their commitment to financial inclusion and accessible quality healthcare aligns perfectly with our goal of providing comprehensive health insurance solutions backed by superior service.”

By combining CarePal Secure’s expertise in health protection with Care Health Insurance’s specialized health insurance products, this union promises a seamless integration of services that cater to the unique needs of all consumers. This association highlights the commitment of both organizations to enhance the quality of life for their customers.

HSINCHU, July 17, 2024– Brain Navi announces the completion of its first case in Netherlands, which was successfully and safely performed at Erasmus MC in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Brain biopsy helps doctors decide the best treatment for the patient after taking a tissue sample from the brain, usually under general anesthetic.

To avoid long and frustrating registration process, NaoTrac incorporates machine vision technology, and finishes the patient and instrument registrations within 30 seconds to 3 minutes. It is an open platform, and the instrument registration is performed by the robotic arm automatically, much safer and faster.

This milestone of Brain Navi from Netherlands comes only a few months after the company announced its completion of 100 clinical case using NaoTrac.

“We are thrilled to be working with The Neurosurgery Department of Erasmus MC to demonstrate the value that NaoTrac could bring to Dutch market. Moving forward, we aim to expand our presence in other parts of Europe, introduce this novel technology to help more surgeons and patients.” said Dr. Jerry Chen, the CEO of Brain Navi.

Dr. Arnaud Vincent, the neurosurgeon from Erasmus MC also gave his feedback after the first surgery performed in the center. “The first surgery went very well, very easy, very quick, the procedure was less than an hour. The patient recovered very well and we have very precise biopsy of the tumor.”

New Delhi, July 16, 2024: GD Goenka University, in collaboration with Fortis Hospital, successfully organised a two-day National Level School Counsellors Summit on “Youth Mental Health and Competitive Examinations.”

Held on July 12 and 13, the summit brought together 120 counsellors from across the country to address the pressing mental health challenges among students preparing for competitive exams. The summit commenced with a warm welcome from Dr.Kim Menezes, Honourable Vice Chancellor, GD Goenka University, followed by an enlightening address by Dr. Amrita Bahl, Chief Education Officer, GD Goenka Group.

”At GD Goenka University, we are committed to offering round the clock support to our students to ensure their overall well-being, including mental health. The Youth Mental Health and Competitive Examinations is a testament to our consistent efforts to foster a supportive environment where students can excel academically and manage stress effectively,” said Dr. Menezes.

Dr Bahl underlined the strategies for counselling students who are reeling under immense competitive exam pressure. She also mentioned the substantial role of school counsellors in recognising students’ problems that can be life-threatening and fostering a conducive environment for students to express their pressures and receive support for mental health issues.

The day 1 of the summit also featured a comprehensive panel discussion on ‘Essential Life Skills- Is There a Hack to Life?’ which was addressed by Ms Nishtha Narula and Dr Mantosh Kumar. The discussion witnessed esteemed panellists delving into the challenges of the digitalised world and the impact of the internet and social media on the mental health of students.

The participants and the speakers also shared their experiences of dealing with kids suffering from ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and the need for its recognition.

During the summit, renowned mental health expert Dr Samir Parikh, Director of Mental Health & Behavioural Sciences, Fortis Hospital, shared his insight on ‘Empathy and Responsibility- from the vantage of a student’. He highlighted that a lack of empathy and social callousness toward mental health issues is the root cause of anxiety and stress and the need to design a curriculum that teaches empathy and social responsibility.

In addition to Dr Parikh‘s thought-provoking address, Ms Mimansa Singh Tanwar‘s ‘Toolkit for Mindfulness and Distress Tolerance’ inspired the participants to become successful school counsellors. She underscored Dialectical Behaviour Therapy and its role in coping with stress and eliminating unsavoury memories of the past.

Another highlight of day 1 of the summit was a lecture by Ms Roshni Sondhi on ‘Building Mastery and Coping Ahead: Skills to Compete’ that uncovered the significance of mindfulness and non-judgemental observation to cope with the pressures of competitive exams.

The second day of the Youth Mental Health and Competitive Examinations Summit was set in motion with a session by Ms Kamna Chhibber, Head of the Mental Health Department of Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences at Fortis National Health Program.

The eminent speaker familiarised the participants about diverse aspects of social psychology during her lecture on “Pressure to Performance-Learning from Social Psychology,” such as the Yerkes-Dodson Law, Self-Fulfilling Prophecy, Social Facilitation, Social Comparison Theory, and Stereotype Threat. The speaker also spoke on self-efficacy as a significant factor for success.

The session was moderated by Ms Divya Jain, Sports Psychologist at Fortis Hospital and Professor (Dr) Anjali Midha Sharan, Dean of the School of Liberal Arts, presented Ms Chhibber with a certificate of appreciation.

The concluding day of the event encompassed extensive dialogues on crucial topics, including “Skill Building for Parents – Insights from Positive Psychology,” by Ms Geetika Kapoor from Ed Essential and Fortis Hospital. In her address, she prioritised happiness and well-being as humanity’s ultimate goal and the role of parenting in the holistic development of students.

Additionally, an address by Dr. Shambhavi Jain and Ms. Anusha Tyagi on the topic “Beyond the Books – Outside the Box Skills for Young Minds,” encouraged the students to think outside the box and foster creativity.

The engaging and transformational summit concluded with a valedictory session and closing remarks by the Dean of SOLA, Dr Anjali Midha Sharan.

Hyderabad, 16th July 2024 – Herbochem, a pioneer in the health and wellness industry, is enthusiastic to announce the launch of a new lineup of plant-based proteins which are designed for people who are looking for better fitness. This innovative range aims to cater to the growing demand for high-quality, sustainable protein sources that support an active lifestyle. Plant-based proteins have gained immense popularity in recent years, not only among vegetarians and vegans but also among fitness enthusiasts and athletes seeking to enhance their performance and recovery. The new range is a testament to Herbochem’s dedication to healthier lives, as well as environmentally sustainable practices. The company has a protein-based production line that concentrates on three key proteins, Pea, Soy and Moringa, that are not only rich in essential nutrients but also give sustainable and eco-friendly options to animal-based proteins.

Pea protein is recognized for its good digestibility, non-allergic characteristics and balanced amino acid pattern having a rich content of iron. As for soy protein, it is a full protein that has all nine amino acids which are essential for human nutrition. It is well-regarded for its ability to support muscle growth and maintenance, as well as its potential benefits for heart health. The moringa tree is known for its leaves, which contain huge quantities of nutrients and antioxidants, thus it benefits muscular development and maintenance. This makes moringa protein very beneficial for maintaining good heart health. It also supports immune functions, energy levels as well as overall well-being.

Karthik Kondepudi, Partner at Herbochem, commented, ” We are happy to announce the launch of our new line of plant-derived proteins. Herbochem’s philosophy is that there is no other source of protein that is sustainable and healthy like that from nature. Our new line of products is designed to provide exceptional nutritional benefits while conforming to our company’s motto of remaining environmentally friendly. We’re confident that our plant-based proteins will meet the growing demand for green and efficient nutrition.”

In addition to its plant-based proteins, Herbochem is also at the forefront of manufacturing plant-based minerals, providing innovative and sustainable solutions for health and wellness. These minerals are derived from natural plant sources, ensuring they are bioavailable and easily absorbed by the body. Herbochem’s commitment to plant-based minerals includes Calcium, Magnesium, Iron, and Zinc.

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, July 15, 2024  — CooperVision, a global leader in myopia management, successfully concluded its impactful participation as a Gold sponsor at the 5th World Congress of Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (WCPOS V) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Held from July 11 to 13, the event highlighted CooperVision’s dedication to advancing paediatric eye health in Asia and underscored its role as a pioneer in myopia control. WCPOS V, hosted by the World Society of Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, attracted over 1,200 paediatric ophthalmologists, researchers, and industry leaders from around the globe, highlighting its significant impact and reach.

With the prevalence and severity of myopia among children increasing, CooperVision is committed to making a lasting impact on the future of paediatric ophthalmology through harnessing advanced research and breakthrough solutions. The event, attended by leading ophthalmologists across the globe, provided a platform for CooperVision to engage with experts and explore innovative solutions.

A focal point of CooperVision’s presence at WCPOS V was the presentation of findings from their MiSight® 1 day seven-year clinical study for myopia control, the world’s longest continuous soft contact lens clinical trial for myopia control. The clinical evidence presented supports the credibility and efficacy of MiSight® 1 day, the world’s first FDA-approved soft contact lens designed to slow myopia progression in children aged 8 to 12 at the initiation of treatment. These insights were spotlighted during the Lunch Symposium hosted at the same venue. Additionally, findings from a separate investigator-initiated study showed no adverse impact on corneal health in participants of the MiSight® 1 day clinical study after 10 years of full-time wear, further supporting the safety of long-term soft contact lens wear.

The findings from the separate investigator-initiated study, shared by Professor Nicola Logan, who was the Principal Investigator of the MiSight® 1 day clinical trial at Aston University, demonstrated the long-term safety of MiSight® 1 day, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of myopia management. “The MiSight® 1 day 7-year clinical trial is the longest running soft contact lens study among children and has given the researchers, academics and the wider eye care professional community confidence in its ability to significantly slow the progression of myopia in children,” said Professor Nicola Logan. “In addition, after 10 years of full-time wear there was no impact to corneal health which further supports the role of MiSight® 1 day as a clinically useful intervention to address childhood myopia.”

On July 13, CooperVision presented key research insights at Poster Village 12 during WCPOS V in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Elizabeth Lumb, Director of Global Professional Affairs, Myopia Management at CooperVision, shared the six-year cumulative treatment effect of MiSight® 1 day. Her presentation demonstrated that alternative approaches for estimating efficacy allowed the accumulated treatment effect of MiSight® 1 day to be assessed over multiple years, beyond part 1 of the MiSight® 1 day clinical trial. Additionally, Katie Harrop, Senior Manager of Global Professional Education at CooperVision shared the findings of a study evaluating the safety and ocular health with Paragon CRT® orthokeratology lenses in Chinese patients.

WCPOS V featured over 85 scientific sessions, panel discussions, and workshops covering a wide range of topics in paediatric ophthalmology and strabismus. Key themes included advancements in myopia management, innovative surgical techniques for childhood eye conditions, and strategies to improve global eye health disparities among children.

“Our participation in WCPOS V reflects our commitment to tackling the myopia epidemic in Asia through early intervention and evidence-based treatments,” said Shila Gupta, Asia Pacific Myopia Management General Manager, CooperVision. “We are dedicated to equipping paediatric ophthalmologists and eye care professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to make a significant impact on children’s vision health.”

15th July 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  DocMode Health Technologies, India’s leading Med-Tech Ecosystem, announces the launch of its new Clinical Research Services. This expansion marks a significant milestone in the company’s mission to advance medical knowledge and improve patient outcomes through innovative research and education.

With the launch of Clinical Research Services, DocMode aims to provide comprehensive solutions that encompass clinical trial management, data analysis, regulatory compliance, and more. This initiative will support pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, and researchers in conducting high-quality clinical studies efficiently and effectively.

DocMode’s Clinical Research Services offer a broad range of capabilities. They include comprehensive management of clinical trials from study design to data collection and analysis, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards. Advanced biostatistical analysis and data management provide accurate and reliable results, while expertise in navigating complex regulatory environments ensures all studies meet necessary guidelines and standards. Additionally, the services include coordination and management of multi-center clinical trials to facilitate broader and more diverse patient recruitment and data collection.

In conjunction with this launch, DocMode announces the appointment of Dr. Merin Dickson as the Director of Medical Affairs. Dr. Dickson will lead the Clinical Research division, bringing extensive experience and a deep understanding of clinical research methodologies and medical affairs to the role. Dr. Dickson previously served as Chief Research Officer at Amrita Institute of Medical Science, where she managed multi-centric clinical trials and regulatory services for national biopharma missions.

“We are thrilled to launch our Clinical Research Services, which will play a crucial role in bridging the gap between clinical practice and research,” said Hans Lewis, CEO of DocMode Health Technologies. “With Dr. Merin Dickson’s expertise and leadership, we are confident that our new services will significantly contribute to the advancement of medical research and ultimately improve patient care.”

Dr. Merin Dickson also shared her enthusiasm about the new role, “I am honored to join DocMode at this pivotal moment. Our Clinical Research Services are designed to address the growing needs of the healthcare industry for robust and reliable clinical data. I look forward to working with our team and partners to drive impactful research that will shape the future of healthcare.”

15th July 2024  Gurugram, Haryana, India  Under a significant initiative for skill development in the Indian hospitality industry, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) is launching an 18-month Vocational Education and Training (VET) Swiss Professional Diploma program in collaboration with EHL and Hyatt Hotels in Delhi NCR and Lucknow.

Students who have completed their Class 12 can enroll in this program which is being delivered at premium Hyatt properties including Hyatt Regency (Delhi), Hyatt Regency (Lucknow), Andaz (Delhi), and Grand Hyatt (Gurugram). At present, there are over 500 students undergoing training by CII at other hotels across India. CII also assures job placements to its students upon their successful completion of the Swiss Professional Diploma.

Sunjae Sharma – Managing Director – India & Southwest Asia, Hyatt Hotels, “At a time when India is emerging as a global leader in the hospitality industry, there is significant growth potential for the youth of India who choose the VET by EHL programme, offered by the Confederation of Indian Industry. We are proud to be the first international hotel chain company in India to collaborate with CII and EHL for this initiative and to contribute to training a new generation of hoteliers. I am confident that the learning and training imparted at Hyatt will enable these young minds to stand out in this competitive sector and achieve their dreams.”

Aman Aditya Sachdev, Director & Regional Head at EHL for South Asia, Middle East & Myanmar, “The VET by EHL program is based on principles of the world-renowned Swiss Competency Framework and has been developed by EHL subject matter experts and faculty members, as well as with global industry feedback. The objective of the program is to prepare the youth worldwide for frontline job roles in the hospitality industry at global standards. Students of the program in India will be at a significant advantage with future employers, in global mobility and in their career progression. They will acquire the relevant knowledge and competencies required by the industry at par with international programs.

We are excited to launch the VET by EHL program today at multiple Hyatt Hotels across India. The program shall be delivered in coordination with the CII Institute of Hospitality; CII and EHL have established a long-term strategic partnership in India for the skilling of the youth for the hospitality sector.”

Sougata Roy Choudhury – Executive Director, Confederation of Indian Industry, “With the rapidly expanding hospitality industry in India and many other countries, there is an unprecedented requirement of skilled professionals. Also, the youths’ interest in long duration courses is dwindling. Hence, CII, as an Industry body has stepped in to bridge this gap through the VET by EHL Swiss Professional Diploma initiative, that offers practical training by industry experts at renowned and luxurious Hyatt hotels. We ensure students are job-ready from day one, and upon completing this 18-month diploma, they secure placements in top hotels and restaurants worldwide.”

Obesity is now a global pandemic. According to Lancet the prevalence of obesity has tripled in the last five decades, with persistent rise in the numbers in all countries including the Middle & low income countries. As per the Sta s cs 13-15% of adults are obese worldwide & among them 40% are women.

Body mass index (BMI) is a person’s weight in kilograms (or pounds) divided by the square of height in meters (or feet). According to CDC BMI between 18.5 to < 23 is in the healthy range, between 23 to < 30 is overweight & > or = 30 is obese. Where do you stand?

‘Body, mind, intellect & Body mass index if perfect, you are ready to conquer the unseen’

What is Menopause & Perimenopause? Absence of periods for more than a year is menopause. It usually happens between 45 to 55years of age. This can happen naturally due to the ovaries stopping functioning; or can happen a er a surgery to remove ovaries or uterus or a er chemotherapy. Perimenopause is when the symptoms of menopause have started but the periods have not stopped. These Symptoms can last for months or years.

‘Perimenopause is like a roller coaster ride with no lines & safety harnesses’

What are the common symptoms?
Menopausal symptoms are mainly due to the estrogen hormone deficiency. They include anxiety, mood swings, hot flushes, vaginal dryness & urinary symptoms. These symptoms can have a huge impact on quality of life, physical, mental & social health.

How does obesity worsen the symptoms of menopause? Menopause is a crucial period with a tendency towards weight gain, possibly due to fall in the estrogen hormone that plays a vital role in fat storage & distribution. Estrogen deficiency the well known reason for all menopausal symptoms can furthermore cause long term effects on other systems like adverse cardiovascular changes, mood disorders & osteoporosis (bone weakening); all of these could theoretically be worsened in association with obesity.

In favour of this, the recent evidence shows a positive correlation between the severity of menopausal symptoms & BMI as well as waist circumference especially in urban population owing to the urban lifestyle & increased stress levels.

Over & above obesity is one of the contraindications for oral hormonal replacement therapy which is treatment op on for all kinds of menopausal symptoms, thus restricting the treatment options to lifestyle changes & non hormonal remedies.

What are some ways for women with obesity/overweight to ease symptoms of menopause as they make efforts to lose weight?

While weight loss will definitely reduce the severity of few symptoms like urinary problems, osteoporosis; there are few important lifestyle changes that will help women in perimenopausal period to ease the symptoms.

Plenty of rest, keeping regular sleep routine, eating healthy diet, calcium rich foods like milk or yogurt or taking supplements; vit D supplements; relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation; exercising regularly including weight bearing ac vi es etc will ease the symptoms and increase the quality of life.

Women with mood swings, low mood, anxiety will benefit from a type of talking therapy called cognitive behavioural therapy. Bothersome hot flushes can be tackled by keeping the living space cool, wearing light clothes, cool shower, cold fluids, reducing the stress levels & avoiding hot drinks, caffeine, smoke, alcohol & spicy foods.

Vaginal dryness that can lead to painful intercourse, recurrent urinary tract & vaginal infections can be dealt with the use of topical vaginal lubricants & moisturisers.

If none of these lifestyle changes help, then the further options will be non-hormonal remedies or hormone replacement therapy which should be started a er careful consideration weighing benefits & risks in consulta on with the gynecologist.

Bengaluru, 11th July 2024: Siemens Healthineers, a leading medical technology company, is proud to announce that the Multix Impact E digital radiography X-ray machine will now be manufactured in India, marking a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to providing better access to care for patients in the country.

According to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) 2022 data, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Tuberculosis (TB), and road injuries continue to be among the leading causes of death in India. An X-ray is one of the primary diagnostic tools instrumental in diagnosing bone fractures in trauma and emergency, anomalies in the chest including infectious diseases like TB and certain tumors.

“This move is a testament to our strong commitment to enhancing patient care and supporting the healthcare needs of the country,” shared Hariharan Subramanian, Managing Director, Siemens Healthcare, Private Limited, marking the inauguration of the facility in Bengaluru. “Our strong focus on local manufacturing and commitment to patient safety underscores our purpose to pioneer healthcare solutions for everyone, everywhere, sustainably.” The Multix Impact E is a floor-mounted system featuring all the necessary tools for easy, intuitive system operation and allows for the detection of anatomical details at low doses radiation, ensuring patient safety and quality healthcare.

Tisha Boatman, Senior Vice President, Global Access to Care, Siemens Healthineers stated, “With the local manufacturing of Multix Impact E digital X-ray, we are making basic healthcare available in low-resource settings in India, thereby building capacities and achieving wider access to care.”

Commercial availability of Multix Impact E, a locally manufactured digital radiography X-ray system for the Indian market, will enhance the general provision of secondary care for which digital X-ray is a crucial requirement. The Multix Impact E will be manufactured in the Bengaluru factory, leveraging several years of experience in local-for-local manufacturing of mobile C-arms, CT, and MRI systems.