Category health

Mumbai- Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss SNHL can strike anybody, even the healthy physique, with no apparent warning as per medical experts in Mumbai. Well-known playback singer Alka Yagnik recently revealed that she has been diagnosed with a rare form of hearing loss, a disorder which has forced her to cancel all her concerts. Loud noise, smoking, alcohol consumption, comorbidities like diabetes, autoimmune disorders like arthritis, and cancer drugs can also impair hearing suddenly. Change in the middle ear pressure while scuba diving or flying (frequent flyers) can damage the inner ear, causing sudden but temporary deafness. If this happens repeatedly, deafness can become permanent. Giving more information on this Dr. Binhi Desai ENT and Voice Surgeon- Otorhinolaryngologist, Founder of ‘SWAR Voice and Swallowing clinic’ at Apex Superspeciality Hospital, Borivali, says, Viral Sudden onset Sensorineural Hearing Loss ( SSNHL) is an ENT emergency condition, which is characterized by rapid onset of hearing loss or a progressive loss over 12-24 hours. Certain viruses such as herpes simplex virus (HSV), herpes zoster virus(HZV), HIV, hepatitis virus, measles virus, rubella virus, mumps virus, Lassa virus, and enterovirus are commonly associated with the condition. During the COVID pandemic, there were many cases of sudden onset sensorineural hearing loss. The incidence of SSNHL is 5 to 20 cases per 100,000 people per year. The patient complains of sudden onset hearing loss over 12-24 hours.

Dr. Binhi Desai ENT and Voice Surgeon further added, it can be unilateral or bilateral. One must visit an ENT surgeon at the earliest, since 72 hours is a golden period. Results are better if treatment is started within the first 1-2 weeks. There are multiple treatment options available. The treatment is mainly in the form of steroids, vasodilators, anti-viral, antibiotics. Intra- tympanic steroid injection is a novel technique and a very useful procedure which gives excellent results along with intravenous treatment. The prognosis is guarded. The earlier the treatment is started, the better is the prognosis. If the above treatment fails, hearing aids, cochlear implant and assistive hearing devices can be offered.

Apex Group of Hospitals is a chain of Hospitals managed and run by expert Medical Professionals with experience of 25 years. Currently Apex group of Hospitals manage more than 350+ beds and provide qualitative healthcare services to the people of Mumbai and surrounding areas. Apex Hospitals is located in Borivali, Kandivali & Mulund.

27th June 2024, Mumbai, India: In Modern times, mental health has become important and individuals have been encouraged to talk about it and should express their emotions freely. But when it comes to mental health issues in men particularly depression and anxiety remains challenging due to societal expectations of masculinity. Our goal is to promote understanding and find solutions by tackling the obstacles men encounter in accessing mental health support. A recent report shows that 77% of men experience mental health issues, yet 40% avoid discussing about it due to societal pressures. Additionally, 29% feel embarrassed to talk about depression and anxiety.

Understanding depression and anxiety in men

Depression and anxiety are mental health conditions that can affect anyone, but men sometimes find it difficult to talk about these feelings openly because of societal expectations about masculinity. Men often struggle with mental health due to family, financial, and work pressures. It’s crucial to create an open environment where men feel comfortable discussing their emotions and mental well-being.

Societal expectations

Men are often expected to hide their feelings of sadness or fear and appear emotionally strong. They feel pressured to handle their problems alone because of societal expectations. This makes it hard for them to admit they need help, fearing they might seem weak or less masculine when talking about their mental health. These pressures limit how men express their emotions, making it difficult for them to discuss their mental health and seek support.

Breaking the stigma

The goal is to make seeking help easy and judgment-free. This means teaching about mental health, ensuring understanding, and encouraging open talks. We want a culture where everyone feels accepted and supported in getting the help they need for their mental well-being.

Strategies for coping

For managing depression and anxiety professional help is necessary, some of the strategies men can include in their daily routine to improve their mental well-being.

Physical Health: Men should exercise regularly, eat balanced meals, and get enough sleep. Exercise boosts mood by releasing feel-good chemicals in the brain.

Emotional Well-being: It’s important for men to acknowledge and validate their feelings. Relaxing activities like hobbies, meditation, or spending time outdoors can help reduce stress.

Social Connections: Maintaining good relationships with friends, family, and community helps men feel supported and less lonely. Regular socializing can improve mental well-being.

Mindfulness and Relaxation: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help men manage stress and think more clearly.

Setting Boundaries: Learning to say no when necessary and prioritizing personal needs without feeling guilty is crucial for maintaining balance and avoiding exhaustion.

Seeking Support: Men should not hesitate to seek professional help or talk to trusted people when facing challenges or struggling with their mental health.

Conclusion

In summary, supporting men with depression and anxiety requires breaking down societal barriers and stigma around mental health. It’s important to promote awareness and provide adequate support. Creating safe environments where men feel comfortable discussing their emotions and seeking help is crucial. Encouraging openness about mental health ensures that everyone receives the necessary support for emotional well-being. Simple methods such as relaxation techniques can also aid in reducing anxiety. By educating, advocating, and offering support, we aim to build a society that values and prioritizes mental health for everyone.

25th June 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  Dr. Annurag Batra is respected and revered in the media and television industry through his contribution of setting up exchange4media and institutionalizing exchange4media, and creating a new and pioneering platform for media, television and related domains in digital and building a pioneering & impact making organization in a 360 degree.

Dr Annurag Batra has serendipitously created a new sector and an industry that is respected and emulated by all others in the domain.

Dr Annurag Batra is a Serial Entrepreneur, an Author, an Angel Investor, a TV show host, a nationalist and a full-time dreamer who believes anything you Believe in deeply manifests itself in reality. Dr Batra is the Founder and Editor in Chief of exchange4media group (www.exchange4media), managing several big media brands that he has created from scratch under its aegis. Dr Batra is the Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of BW Businessworld Media Group (www.businessworld.in) which is in its 44th year and amongst the topmost respected business media platforms which are 360 degree and media neutral. Dr Batra has been busy pivoting and turning around BW Businessworld a company he acquired in late 2013 and in the last 9 plus years BW Businessworld has pivoted to becoming a content tech media conglomerate and is making an impact in India with its futuristic approach. Dr Batra I also served as a Member of the Board of Governors of the prestigious Management Development Institute, Gurgaon (www.mdi.ac.in) his own Alma Matter and Dr Batra is the first PGPM (MDI s flagship program) graduate from MDI Gurgaon to be on its Board of Governors for last 3 years and half years from 12th Jan 2020 to June 2023. Dr Batra believes what Confucius said, “If you make your hobby your profession you don’t have to work.” DrBatra believes deeply in spirituality, Indian Vedas, and the power of ideas and dreams to achieve anything we believe we can. Dr Batra is a die-hard optimist and believes sharing creates happiness.

Dr Annurag Batra has a unique position in the Indian media industry. While he is a media mogul in his own right having founded the exchange4media group 24 plus years back which is the homepage of everyone in the media industry as well as Dr Batra acquired BW Businessworld group 9 years back and has grown it multi-folds as a 360-degree media platform.

As the founder of the exchange4media group over the last 24 years plus, Dr Batra has interacted deeply with leading media owners, editors, journalists, and new-age media professionals. Dr Batra in the course of building exchange4media.com, samachar4media.com, Impact and Pitch, and the 75 plus experiential large scale IP s of exchange4media, Dr Batra is in touch with the depth and width of the media industry across India. Dr Batra has written extensively on media and is an accepted authority on media, television and new media. His book out likely in 2025 and titled “Media Moguls of India”. Dr Batra truly brings the network effect to play through his deep personal relationships. Dr Batra has a deep and personal approach to all issues and understands one has to do the right thing in the right manner for the right reason for the right impact. With his being on the ground in his dual roles as exchange4media and BW Businessworld Dr Batra understands what media wants and how media works. Dr Batra believes in the three C’s for media impact, Content, Connect, and Context.

Dr Annurag Batra is also setting up his initiatives in UAE and MENA and you will see the media companies and media tech companies that have been mentored and invested by him also entering UAE and MENA.

Dr Annurag Batra has also angel-invested in many futuristic media tech startups that are impacting the Indian digital media and media tech.

Dr Satya Srinivas Appala, Consultant-Medical Oncologist, HCG Cancer Centre Vijayawada

In our pursuit of well-being, we’ve witnessed remarkable progress as advances in medical science, preventive measures, and lifestyle choices have significantly transformed the health landscape. By embracing regular screenings, staying active, and nourishing our bodies, we empower ourselves to lead vibrant lives. Medical advancements have provided us with a powerful defence: Pap smears for early detection and HPV vaccines to prevent infection. These tools empower women to take control of their health, ensuring brighter prospects and a healthier future for all.

Once a leading cause of death, cervical cancer is now largely preventable. By combining these strategies, we can significantly reduce a woman’s risk and empower them to take control of their health. This one-two punch has demonstrably lowered cervical cancer rates, paving the way for a brighter future for women.

Pap Smears: Early Detection Saves Lives

Pap smears are crucial for early detection of cervical cancer. This non-invasive test involves collecting cells from the cervix to check for abnormal changes that could indicate precancerous lesions. The beauty of Pap smears lies in their ability to identify these abnormalities at an early stage, allowing for timely intervention before cancer has a chance to develop. It is recommended to start Pap smears at age 21, with the screening schedule varying based on age and individual risk factors.

HPV Vaccination: Building a Shield Against the Virus

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause of most cervical cancers. With over 200 strains, some HPV types cause mild issues, while high-risk strains can trigger cancerous changes in cervical cells. HPV vaccines, like Gardasil, introduce weakened or inactive virus forms to the immune system, prompting the body to develop antibodies that recognize and fight off future HPV exposure. Gardasil 9 protects against nine HPV strains, including those responsible for most cervical cancers and many genital warts.

A Winning Combination: Pap Smears and HPV Vaccination

Combating cervical cancer effectively requires a strategic combination of Pap smears and HPV vaccination. Vaccination provides a proactive shield by preventing infection with high-risk HPV strains, significantly reducing the risk of developing precancerous lesions and cervical cancer.

This is where Pap smears are crucial. Regular screenings ensure early detection of abnormal cell changes. Early detection allows for prompt treatment of precancerous lesions, preventing progression to full-blown cancer. The combined power of Pap smears and HPV vaccination has significantly reduced cervical cancer rates globally. Studies show that this approach greatly decreases the risk of cervical precancer and cancer, saving countless lives and improving women’s health.

Challenges and the Promise of the Future

While Pap smears and HPV vaccination are key to preventing cervical cancer, other factors also play a role. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing safe sex, and communicating openly with healthcare providers about concerns or risk factors are vital for a personalized approach to prevention. Despite significant progress, disparities in healthcare access and vaccination programs still exist, leaving some women vulnerable.

Cervical cancer is no longer an inevitable threat. By embracing the powerful duo of Pap smears and HPV vaccination, we can significantly reduce the risk of developing this disease. Early detection and vaccination empower women to take control of their health and live long, healthy lives. Expanding access to these preventive measures and investing in research holds the promise of relegating cervical cancer to the past.

25th June 2024 New Delhi, Delhi, India Homi Lab launched its inaugural Dr. Kalam Future Lab at SMCP Sanskar Vidya Bhavan, an educational facility designed to teach children about futurism and prepare them for future careers at Bharuch, Gujarat. The lab features a combination of a curated syllabus, expert trainers, virtual reality, immersive content, and a humanoid.

The inauguration, organized by the Sanskar Bharati Trust, saw Bharuch District Collector Shri Tushar Sumera as the Chief Guest and Homi Lab Founder Shri Srijan Pal Singh as the Guest of Honour. The event began with the traditional lighting of the lamp by these guests and other trustees.

The inauguration showcased a prayer song, a welcome dance, and a musical skit titled “Sky is the Limit,” which portrayed the journey of ISRO. Mrs. Shailja Singh, Principal of SMCP Sanskar Vidya Bhavan, underscored Homi Lab’s role in encouraging scientific curiosity and innovation among students.

Shri Sumera emphasized the importance of scientific inquiry and critical thinking. Shri Singh discussed Homi Lab’s goal to foster future thinkers and innovators.

“Kalam Future Lab is a valuable addition to Bharuch. With the efforts of SMCP Sanskar Vidya Bhavan and support from Sanskar Bharati Trust, I am confident that this will provide opportunities to students at Bharuch to learn and aspire to reach even greater heights. With changing times, it is essential that we follow the wisdom of Dr. Kalam and have the courage to dream big. It is our responsibility to make learning an optimist endeavour and contribute towards nation-building,” added Tushar Sumera, IAS, DM, Bharuch.

“I am happy to see the implementation of the first Dr. Kalam Future Lab in Gujarat happening in Bharuch. Dr. Kalam believed that India would be a developed nation only when the highest quality education with a value system is available to all – without any economic and social discrimination. Today, Sanskaar Bharti School along with Homi Lab is implementing a pioneer learning centre for teaching children about futurism – where they will imagine, design and prepare for careers and opportunities which will flourish a decade ahead. Never before such an educational system, a combined system of curated syllabus, expert trainers, virtual reality, immersive content and even a humanoid, has been deployed for school children across the world – and such long-term thinking is a testimony of the new India,” said Shri Srijan Pal Singh.

The event concluded with the unveiling of the Future Zone, powered by Homi Lab in collaboration with the Kalam Centre, and an inspiring presentation on the Future Vision by Campus Director Mr. Kulwant Marwal, indicating Homi Lab’s trajectory in shaping future generations.

24th June 2024 Pune, Maharashtra, India This International Yoga Day (21st June), Ananda Yoga School of India (a part of Ananda Sangha) is offering a sunrise-to-sunset experience of Yoga. This would appeal to first-timers as well as long-term practitioners of Yoga. Structured into short sessions, the event provides an opportunity to sample a range of subjects and routines and develop a wider and deeper appreciation of the yogic lifestyle.

Ananda Yoga for Body, Mind and Soul

The event will be online over Zoom and is offered free of cost, but prior registration is required. Apart from the regional language (Hindi / Marathi / Tamil) session at 11 am, all other sessions will be in English.

Rooted in the teachings of Sri Sri Paramhansa Yogananda and designed by his disciple, Swami Kriyananda, Ananda Yoga is a deep yet gentle spiritual yoga practice that integrates body, mind, and soul. It spans asana, pranayam, meditation and affirmations, to achieve radiant health, prosperity, peace, and spiritual awakening.

According to Latha Emmatty Gupta, Director- Ananda Yoga School of India, “Ananda Yoga is much more than a physical practice. It is how you adapt and apply this ancient wisdom in daily life to find more peace and enhance all-round well-being. In that sense, Ananda Yoga is a work-in, rather than a work-out.”

Highlights of Ananda Yogathon (6:00 AM to 7:00 PM):

Surya Namaskar: Learn this immensely powerful technique, and combined with affirmation offer your salutations to the Sun.

Chanting: Open and expand the heart chakra with devotional chanting of mantras.

Asanas for Stress Relief and Heart Health: Guided by experienced teachers, these are customized Ananda Yoga routines to meet the demands of daily life.

Advanced Asanas: These energizing asana routines will take one into a deeper understanding and integration of body, mind and soul.

Restorative Yoga: This form of yoga is very relaxing and renews one both physically and mentally. Using props such as cushions and blocks enables holding poses much longer which calms the mind.

Kriya Yoga: Get introduced to the path of Kriya Yoga, an ancient technique of self-realization that Paramhansa Yogananda described as ‘the airplane route to God’.

Pranayam: It can be both a calming and energizing practice that clears the mind and helps you operate with focus and energy. Pranayam is a doorway to meditation and higher consciousness.

Guided Meditation: Meditate together with hundreds of other online participants, guided by the Kriyacharya and Spiritual Director of Ananda Sangha.

Yoga Sutras: Expand understanding of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras and their application in daily life.

Neuroscience of Yoga: Dive into the neuroscience behind Yoga as well as catch up on the latest scientific research on benefits of yoga.

Ayurveda and Yoga: Develop an appreciation of Ayurveda, as a companion science of Yoga. Gain tips on how people can adapt their lifestyle based on body constitution.

Tools for Awakening Inner Power: The application of Yoga is where transformation can happen. Learn tools and techniques to apply yoga in everyday life.

A Holistic Yoga Classroom

Register now for this celebration of International Yoga Day and enjoy a taste of the multi-faceted nature of Yoga.

24th June 2024 Delhi, India A healthy, nutritious, and active lifestyle can go a long way in maintaining sound mental and physical health, and recent years have made us realize just how important it is to make health an utmost priority in our lives. So, this brings us to an important question: What does one do to stay fit and healthy in 2024? Integrative health coach Neha Ranglani has the answer: “A nutrition-rich diet, containing omega-3 ALA-rich walnuts, may help improve your cardiovascular health. Pair it up with yoga, which helps reduce stress, improve blood circulation, and control blood pressure levels, and you have a powerful combination for maintaining a healthy heart.”

California Walnuts and Yoga

And we couldn’t agree more! California walnuts, paired with the ancient practice of yoga offer complementary effects that can help not only our heart health but also our overall well-being.

Scroll down to read how yoga and walnuts benefit your heart:

1. Reduced stress

Yoga, an ancient Indian practice, involves a combination of body poses, breathwork, and meditation. This trio is known to be beneficial for our mind and body. Meanwhile, walnuts may help improve mood.1 These wonder nuts may be associated with lower depression symptoms, greater interest in activities, higher energy levels, better concentration, and greater optimism.2

2. Promote weight management

Obesity is one of the major risk factors for heart disease, and hence, weight management is key to protecting one’s self. Yoga and walnuts both promote weight management. A handful of walnuts contains 2.5g plant-based omega-3 ALA, 4g protein, 2g fiber, and several other essential nutrients.

Walnuts may have the potential to influence appetite hormones, suppressing hunger and making you feel satiated for longer. And if you feel full for longer, you avoid unnecessary and untimely cravings.3

3. Promote healthy gut

Studies suggest that walnuts enhance the growth of beneficial bacteria to ensure a healthy gut.4 And a healthy gut may be linked to a variety of health benefits, including digestion, metabolism, and the immune system.5 Meanwhile, yoga, through specific poses like Pavanamuktasana and Paschimottanasana, can help deal with symptoms of digestive disorders and improve overall gut health.

4. Improve cholesterol levels

Did you know: that eating walnuts may help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL) in our body?6 And while walnuts do that, yoga also supports good cholesterol levels with its healthy lifestyle and weight management properties.

Now that you have read about a few of the many benefits of yoga and walnuts for heart health, how about starting your day with a handful of California walnuts and 10-15 minutes of yoga (to begin with)? Your body and mind will thank you for this holistic approach towards a healthier, happier you!

References:

1Pribis P. Effects of Walnut Consumption on Mood in Young Adults-A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2016;8(11):668. doi:10.3390/nu81106682

2Arab L, Guo R, Elashoff D. Lower Depression Scores among Walnut Consumers in NHANES. Nutrients. 2019;11(2):275. doi:10.3390/nu11020275

3Stevenson JL, Paton CM, Cooper JA. Hunger and satiety responses to high-fat meals after high polyunsaturated fat diet: a randomized trial. Nutrition. 2017;41:14–23. doi:10.1016/j.nut.2017.03.008

4Baer/USDA/Gut Health/Jun 01 2018, Parhofer/Univ Munich/Gut Health/Feb 22 2018, Lamendella/Penn State/Gut Health/Dec 18 2021 (citations noted below in Health Research section)

5Wallace TC, Guarner F, Madsen K, et al. Human gut microbiota and its relationship to health and disease. Nutr Rev. 2011;69(7):392-403. doi: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2011.00402

6Guasch-Ferré M, Li J, Hu FB, et al. Effects of walnut consumption on blood lipids and other cardiovascular risk factors: an updated meta-analysis and systematic review of controlled trials. Am J Clin Nutr. 2018;108(1):174-187. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/nqy091.

Healthcare access in India is undergoing a remarkable transformation, thanks to the advent of HealthATM technology. These innovative health kiosks are revolutionizing the way communities access medical care, ensuring that healthcare is more accessible, efficient, and comprehensive. Clinics on Cloud, a leader in this space, offers various solutions that are making a significant impact. Here are five ways HealthATM is transforming healthcare access in India:

1. Enhancing Remote Health Monitoring

HealthATM kiosks, like the Clinics on Cloud Health Kiosk, provide essential health monitoring tools in remote and underserved areas. Equipped with devices to measure vital signs such as blood pressure, glucose levels, and oxygen saturation, these kiosks enable patients to receive accurate health assessments without travelling long distances. This remote health monitoring is crucial for managing chronic diseases and ensuring timely medical interventions.

2. Facilitating Telemedicine Consultations

One of the standout features of HealthATM is its ability to connect patients with healthcare professionals through telemedicine. The Clinics on Cloud Health Box facilitates real-time consultations with doctors, bridging the gap between urban medical facilities and rural patients. This capability ensures that individuals in remote locations receive timely medical advice and prescriptions, reducing the need for physical travel and enhancing the overall efficiency of the healthcare system.

3. Cost-Effective Healthcare Solutions

HealthATM kiosks are a cost-effective solution for both patients and healthcare providers. With the Health ATM manufacturer in India, Clinics on Cloud provides affordable health kiosks that significantly reduce the cost of establishing traditional healthcare facilities. Patients benefit from lower consultation fees and reduced travel expenses, making healthcare more accessible and affordable for a larger population.

4. Streamlining Health Data Management

HealthATMs are equipped with advanced digital systems that streamline health data management. The Clinics on Cloud smart health kiosk ensures that patient data is securely stored and easily accessible by healthcare providers. This integration of digital health records improves the accuracy of diagnoses, enhances continuity of care, and enables more personalized treatment plans. Additionally, it helps in maintaining comprehensive patient histories that can be accessed during subsequent visits.

5. Increasing Healthcare Accessibility

By strategically placing HealthATM kiosks in rural and urban areas, Clinics on Cloud is significantly increasing healthcare accessibility. These kiosks act as box clinics, providing essential medical services to communities that otherwise have limited access to healthcare. The presence of HealthATMs in schools, offices, and public spaces ensures that a wide range of people can benefit from these services, promoting better health outcomes and overall community well-being.

HealthATMs are a game-changer in the Indian healthcare landscape. With their ability to enhance remote health monitoring, facilitate telemedicine consultations, provide cost-effective solutions, streamline health data management, and increase accessibility, they are poised to make a lasting impact on healthcare access in India. For more information on HealthATM and related solutions, visit Clinics on Cloud.

20th June 2024, Pune –MultiFit, India’s leading functional fitness studio brand, successfully concluded a four-day blood donation drive in partnership with the esteemed Grant Medical Foundation Ruby Hall Clinic. The drive was held across various MultiFit centers in Pune from June 15 to June 18, 2024, aiming to contribute to the critical demand for blood in hospitals and medical facilities.

The blood donation drive kicked off at the MultiFit Kalyani Nagar Annexe on June 15, followed by MultiFit Kharadi on June 16, MultiFit Baner on June 17, and concluded at MultiFit Dhanori on June 18. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from fitness enthusiasts, residents, and the MultiFit community, showcasing the spirit of solidarity and community service.

Ms. Deepti Sharma, Director of MultiFit, expressed her gratitude and pride in the success of the event. She said, “We are thrilled with the overwhelming response we received at all our locations. The success of this blood donation drive underscores the commitment of our members and the local community toward societal well-being. At MultiFit, we believe in not only fostering physical fitness but also in making a positive impact on society. This drive is a testament to our core values of health, community, and responsibility.”

MultiFit, founded in 2015, has rapidly grown to become a renowned name in the fitness industry with over 35 centers across India and the UK. Known for its holistic and functional approach to fitness, MultiFit blends conventional training with advanced functional training, offering a diverse range of fitness programs. These include HIIT, strength training, yoga, Pilates, and combat sports, catering to various fitness needs and levels. The brand is committed to promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle, encouraging members to pursue fitness engagingly and enjoyably.

The blood donation drive collected a significant amount of blood, which will be instrumental in saving lives and supporting medical treatments. The event also raised awareness about the importance of regular blood donation and its impact on public health.

Hyderabad,19th June 2024: Star Health and Allied Insurance Company Limited (Star Health Insurance), India’s largest retail health insurance company, launches AI-driven Star Health Face Scan, an innovative Artificial Intelligence tool designed for remote health assessment, set to revolutionize health monitoring. This face scan performs a comprehensive health check-up in under a minute, providing valuable real-time insights on 18 vital health parameters at the individual’s convenience.

Commenting on the launch of Star Health Face Scan, Anand Roy, MD & CEO, Star Health and Allied Insurance Co. Ltd. said, “The Star Health Face Scan tool not only exemplifies the company’s commitment to innovation but also represents a significant step towards the future of digital health assessments. This initiative is expected to increase customer engagement, improve health management and reinforce Star Health’s position as a pioneer in the health insurance sector. The company will continue expanding its technological capabilities to provide even more advanced and user-friendly solutions for its customers.”

With the face scan feature, individuals can effortlessly track vital parameters such as blood pressure, pulse rate, heart rate, hemoglobin levels, and stress levels. Powered by cutting-edge technology and artificial intelligence, the tool analyses the face to deliver instant health assessments. Early detection of health issues can lead to timely medical interventions. The tool adds value to the insurance services by integrating health monitoring with insurance coverage. This advancement reflects Star Health’s commitment to making health monitoring more accessible and convenient for Bharat. Upcoming enhancements include the capability of assessing blood glucose and cholesterol.

The face scan feature will provide users with credible information to swiftly assess health status with a simple scan, thereby enabling them to take proactive steps towards better health. The app also offers additional features including a steps tracker, water intake tracker, calorie tracker, Health Risk Assessment (HRA), and health & wellness blogs.

Face Scan is one of the many technological innovations that the Company has introduced to improve customer experience. The company is heavily investing in technology to create manifold impact in various business areas. Some key technological advancements at Star Health Insurance in the last 1 year have been 1) Risk models to enable predictive capability through high-level data analytics, which can drive personalized pricing, early fraud detection, and a profound understanding of individual risk profiles. 2) digitized claims documentation and tariffs to speed up the process and reduce the margin of error, which aligns with IRDAI’s recent circular to provide faster claims settlement. 3) NHCX Integration with the company’s custom-built stack, which will increase efficiency and transparency in customer claims settlement.