Category health

By-Dr. SHANU JAIN, CONSULTANT- RADIATION ONCOLOGY, HCG Cancer Center – Nagpur

Parents seek the best for their children. We think about healthy food, education, safety—and wholesome health. However, there is one important health factor that many Indian families tend to side-step: the HPV vaccine in young girls.

HPV, or human papilloma virus, is a DNA virus from the Papillomaviridae family, which can lead to serious health issues over the time. Getting vaccinated can greatly reduce the risk of cancers linked to this virus, particularly Cervical cancer.  It is most effective when administered before a person comes into contact with HPV — ideally during the early teenage years, before the sexual debut.

Why Is HPV Important to Know About?

HPV, or human papillomavirus, is a virus that can spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact, often during sexual activity. In most cases, the body clears the infection on its own. However, certain types of HPV can remain in the body and lead to serious health problems. For women, one of the biggest concerns is cervical cancer — a condition that usually develops quietly over time, without noticeable signs in the early stages. Because the signs can be silent for years, it’s hard to know when trouble might start. This makes prevention all the more important. The HPV vaccine helps stop the virus from causing damage, in the first place.

Why Give the Vaccine Early?

The best time for the vaccine is between the ages of 9 and 14. At this age, the immune system builds stronger protection. Besides, giving it early means the vaccine works before the girl could possibly come into contact with the virus. It is equally effective in the age group between 15-20 and can be given till the age of 45 years.

Waiting too long can reduce the vaccine’s effect. Sadly, many girls miss this chance because parents and doctors don’t discuss this issue early enough.

Parental Worries?

Some parents wonder whether the vaccine is really needed, or, whether it might encourage early sexual activity. Others worry about safety, or side effects. The truth is, the vaccine is very safe. Nor will it change a child’s behaviour. What it does is, lower the risk of serious disease, in the long term.

Think about vaccines for polio or measles. We don’t wait for symptoms before giving those. The HPV vaccine works the same way. Saying ‘Yes’ simply means you want to protect your daughter, not give permission for irresponsible behaviour.

What Happens After the Vaccine?

Most kids feel fine. Some might have a sore arm or feel a bit tired, for a day or two. These symptoms are mild and temporary. The long-term benefits of evading cancer far outweigh the entirely temporary distress brought on by these minor side effects.

The Importance of Talking Openly

In India, discussing concerns relating to reproductive health, with children; especially girls, tends to become an uncomfortable experience, due to long-standing inhibitions. This lack of open conversation can deter the implementation of necessary health measures, such as timely vaccinations.  However, it is heartening to find that many parents who learn about HPV and the vaccine and decide to break the undesirable silence. They lead the way by showing their daughters it’s okay to care about their health and to talk about it.

Doctors, schools, and family members all can help. If you’re unsure, ask your doctor. She can explain the vaccine schedule, answer your questions, and help you decide what’s best.

Prevention is a Powerful Tool

Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers we can prevent before it starts. That’s a big advantage. Choosing the HPV vaccine means lowering the chances of your daughter having to deal with this disease later.

Is it recommended for boys as well?

HPV virus is linked to development of not only cervical cancer but also cancer of the vulva and vagina in females and cancer of penis, anus, mouth, tonsils, or throat in males engaged in oral or anal sex. Vaccinating boys will not only improve the herd immunity but will also prevent infection in their female partners as it spreads through sexual activity. It will also give protection against genital warts. Recent WHO guidelines recommend it for boys as well.

When it comes to your child’s well-being, taking steps to prevent avoidable illness is one of the most thoughtful decisions you can make. The HPV vaccine offers more than just medical protection — it gives young girls the chance to grow up feeling secure, supported, and strong.

If you’re still weighing the decision, keep it simple. Choose protection. Choose prevention. And above all, choose a safer, healthier future for your daughter.

Dr. Pavan Yadav, Lead Consultant – Interventional Pulmonology & Lung Transplantation, Aster RV Hospital

The smoke exhaled and the burning end of a cigarette release poisonous gases and fine particles into the air that others breathe. This secondhand smoke causes asthma, bronchitis, and other illnesses in children, and increases the risk of lung cancer and heart disease in adult non-smokers. Think about your family – your parents, spouse, children, or friends.

Breathing someone else’s cigarette smoke is no less harmful. In India, over 20% of youth (ages 13–15) are exposed to second-hand smoke in public places, and even 11% at home . No one wants to unintentionally harm their loved ones, but that’s exactly what happens when you smoke around others. Quitting smoking or never starting is a gift of clean air and health to those around you.

There are also wider social and economic consequences of tobacco use. Families can suffer when the main earner falls ill due to cancer or heart disease from smoking. Treatment of tobacco-related diseases can drain a family’s savings and plunge them into debt. Furthermore, money spent on cigarettes is money not spent on food, education, or other needs.

Tobacco use perpetuates a cycle of poverty in many households. In social settings, smokers may find themselves having to step away to smoke due to public smoking bans, missing out on moments with friends or colleagues. Over time, society’s view of smoking has shifted – what was once seen as stylish or normal is now often viewed as a hazardous, even antisocial habit. Realizing these social impacts can strengthen one’s resolve to quit: you’ll not only heal yourself but also protect your family and become a more considerate member of your community.

Breaking the Bank: The Financial Cost of Tobacco

Beyond health, tobacco inflicts a heavy financial burden on individuals and the nation. Tobacco isn’t just killing people; it’s also burning through their wallets. Let’s consider a common scenario: if someone smokes even 5 cigarettes a day, at roughly ₹12 per cigarette, that adds up to about ₹60 each day – which is ₹1,800 a month spent just on smoking . In one year, that’s over ₹20,000 gone up in smoke.

In 10 years, it’s several lakhs of rupees. To put it in perspective, one media estimate found that a 30-year-old who smokes 5 cigarettes daily would end up losing over ₹1 crore (ten million rupees) by the time he is 60, factoring in the cost of cigarettes and what that money could have earned if saved or invested . That is an astounding loss of personal wealth – money that could have been used for buying a home, educating children, or securing one’s retirement.

On a national level, the costs are equally alarming. According to the Ministry of Health and WHO, the total economic cost of tobacco use in India was about ₹177,341 crore in 2017-2018. (That is 1.77 trillion rupees, or around US $27.5 billion in one year.) This figure includes healthcare costs for treating diseases caused by tobacco and the lost productivity from illness and early deaths.

To put it another way, India loses about 1% of its GDP to tobacco-related costs – a huge drain on the economy. Imagine what ₹177,000 crore could do if redirected to development, healthcare, or education! By quitting tobacco, you’re not only saving your own money but also helping reduce this burden on our society. Every rupee not spent on cigarettes is a rupee saved for a better life.

• Dr. Sunitha Mahesh, Medical Director & Senior Consultant – Infertility and Maternal Fetal Medicine, Milann- The Fertility and Birthing Hospital, Bengaluru

Anemia is a major global health concern, particularly affecting women of childbearing age, with prevalence rates between 20–40%, translating to over 500 million individuals worldwide. It is especially significant during pregnancy, where it can lead to complications for both mother and baby. The primary cause is iron deficiency, responsible for over half of the cases. In India, the situation is particularly alarming, with the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5) reporting that approximately 52.5% of pregnant women are affected by anemia. Addressing this issue involves improving nutritional intake, promoting iron supplementation, and implementing public health strategies to reduce the burden of anemia globally and within specific populations like India.

Increased Requirement of Iron during pregnancy:

During pregnancy, there is an increased need for iron to support the developing fetus and to accommodate the mother’s expanding blood volume. Iron is essential for producing hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Adequate iron intake ensures sufficient hemoglobin levels, which are critical for oxygen delivery to tissues and organs.

As pregnancy progresses into the second and third trimesters, the demands for iron and vitamins become even higher. If these increased nutritional needs are not met, it can lead to iron deficiency anemia. This condition occurs when iron intake falls short of the body’s requirements, resulting in fewer red blood cells and decreased oxygen transport. Managing iron intake through diet and supplementation is vital during pregnancy to prevent anemia and support the health of both mother and baby.

Challenges of anaemia during pregnancy

During pregnancy, there is an increase in blood volume—more than the increase in blood cells—leading to a condition known as hemodilution. This process helps ensure adequate blood flow to the developing fetus but can sometimes be mistaken for anemia. However, anemia in pregnancy is diagnosed when hemoglobin levels fall below 10.5 g/dL.

Anemia poses several risks for both mother and fetus. For the mother, low hemoglobin levels can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and difficulty performing daily activities. In severe cases, it may lead to breathlessness and cardiac issues. For the fetus, maternal anemia can result in restricted growth (growth restriction or IUGR), low birth weight, and may affect placental development. Poor placental function is linked to complications like pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes. Managing anemia effectively during pregnancy is crucial to reduce these risks and ensure better outcomes for both mother and child.

New Evidence: Link to Congenital Heart Defects

A recent study published in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology highlights an even more concerning association. Researchers analyzed health records of women in the UK who became pregnant between January 1998 and October 2020, and found that anemia during pregnancy was linked to a 40–47% higher risk of the child being born with congenital heart defects. This finding suggests that maternal anemia may interfere with early fetal cardiovascular development, adding another dimension to the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment.

Maternal Complications of Anemia

Anemia affects a pregnant woman’s health and resilience, particularly during labor and postpartum recovery. Key complications include:

· Fatigue and reduced physical capacity

· Increased susceptibility to infections, especially urinary tract infections (UTIs)

· Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH): Low hemoglobin levels reduce the body’s ability to tolerate blood loss, increasing the risk of severe bleeding during or after delivery

· Need for blood transfusion: To restore hemoglobin levels in cases of significant blood loss

· Abnormal blood clotting: Severe anemia and blood loss can trigger Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC), a life-threatening condition where the blood’s clotting ability becomes dysregulated

What Are Congenital Heart Defects (CHDs)?

Congenital Heart Defects (CHDs) are structural abnormalities of the heart that are present at birth. These defects can affect the heart’s walls, valves, or major blood vessels, disrupting normal blood flow through the heart and to the rest of the body.

CHDs range in severity:

· Mild cases may go unnoticed at birth and resolve on their own or require minimal treatment.

· Severe defects can be life-threatening and often require early surgical intervention or ongoing cardiac care.

CHDs: A Major Public Health Concern

· CHDs are among the leading causes of infant morbidity and mortality worldwide. According to data published in Indian Pediatrics, approximately 180,000–200,000 children are born with congenital heart disease each year in India alone. Unfortunately, a significant number of these cases remain undiagnosed or untreated, especially in rural and low-resource settings.

Risk Factors for Anemia During Pregnancy

Several pre-existing conditions and pregnancy-related factors can increase a woman’s risk of developing anemia during pregnancy. Identifying these early allows for timely intervention and better outcomes for both mother and baby.

Key Contributing Factors:

1. Hyperemesis Gravidarum

o Severe and persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy

o Leads to poor nutritional intake and dehydration, contributing to iron and folate deficiencies

2. Pre-existing Anemia

· Women with iron-deficiency anemia before conception are more likely to experience worsened anemia during pregnancy

· Often linked to poor dietary intake or chronic malnutrition

3, Congenital Hemoglobinopathies

· Conditions like thalassemia or sickle cell disease can cause chronic anemia, which may be exacerbated by pregnancy

4. Multiple Pregnancies

· Carrying twins or higher-order multiples increases demand for nutrients, especially iron and folic acid, heightening anemia risk

5. Short Interpregnancy Intervals

· A reduced gap between pregnancies can prevent the body from replenishing iron and nutrient stores, increasing susceptibility to anemia

6. Gynecological Conditions

o Women with heavy menstrual bleeding due to conditions like fibroids or endometriosis may begin pregnancy with already low iron stores

The Importance of Iron in Fetal Heart Development

Iron plays a crucial role in the early development of the fetal heart. During embryogenesis, the heart is the first functional organ to begin forming—starting as early as the 7th week of gestation.

On early ultrasound scans, this is often visualized as a faint pulsation, marking the onset of cardiac activity. However, the process of heart development begins even earlier and involves a highly coordinated sequence of events:

Key Stages of Fetal Heart Formation:

1. Formation of Primitive Blood Vessels

2. Cardiac Looping – where the heart tube folds into its basic shape

3. Septation – the formation of walls (septa) separating the heart chambers

4. Chamber Differentiation – development of the four-chambered structure seen after birth

These stages are highly sensitive to oxygen levels and nutrient availability, especially iron, which is vital for:

· Hemoglobin production (oxygen transport)

· Cell division and differentiation

· Mitochondrial energy metabolism needed for organ development

Impact of Maternal Anemia on Fetal Cardiac Development

When a pregnant woman is anemic, her blood carries less oxygen to the placenta and fetus. This hypoxic environment can interfere with the delicate processes involved in early heart formation, increasing the risk of congenital heart defects (CHDs) such as:

· Septal defects (holes in the heart walls)

· Outflow tract anomalies (malformations of the major vessels)

These defects can have lifelong implications for the child’s health and may require surgical correction or long-term cardiac care.

The Role of Nutrition in Maternal and Fetal Development

Maternal nutrition is one of the most critical factors influencing the health of both the mother and the developing fetus. Around the time of organogenesis—when vital organs like the heart, brain, spine, and kidneys begin forming—the need for adequate nutritional reserves becomes especially urgent.

Nutritional Needs During Organogenesis

Organogenesis typically occurs during the first trimester, a period during which many women may not yet realize they are pregnant. Key nutrients required during this time include:

· Iron – Essential for oxygen transport and cellular energy production

· Folic Acid (Vitamin B9) – Prevents neural tube defects and supports red blood cell production

· Vitamin B12 – Works with folic acid in red blood cell formation and neurological development

· Inadequate levels of these nutrients, particularly iron, can reduce the mother’s oxygen-carrying capacity, leading to fetal hypoxia (low oxygen delivery to tissues). This increases the risk of developmental abnormalities, especially congenital heart defects.

Causes of Anemia Beyond Diet

· While poor dietary intake is a common cause of anemia, there are several non-dietary causes that must also be addressed:

· Hemoglobinopathies such as:

o Thalassemia

o Sickle Cell Anemia

· These are inherited blood disorders where the structure or production of hemoglobin is abnormal, leading to chronic anemia.

Women with known or suspected hemoglobin disorders should be referred to a hematologist early in pregnancy (or ideally, before conception) to ensure appropriate monitoring and management.

The Fetal Dependence on Maternal Stores

The developing fetus is entirely dependent on the mother’s nutritional status, especially for:

· Iron – for building fetal blood supply and heart tissue

· Folic Acid – for neural development

· Vitamin B12 – for brain and nerve development

If the mother’s nutrient levels are low, the fetus may be at risk for:

· Low birth weight

· Preterm birth

· Congenital anomalies

· Long-term developmental delays

Preventing Anemia in Pregnancy: The Power of Nutrition and Prenatal Care

A nutritious, well-balanced diet during pregnancy is one of the most effective ways to prevent anemia and support both maternal and fetal health. Nutritional needs increase during this time, and iron becomes essential for building extra red blood cells to carry oxygen to the baby.

Iron-Rich Foods to Include in Your Diet

To reduce the risk of anemia, ensure your meals include iron-rich foods, such as:

· Green leafy vegetables (spinach, fenugreek,)

· Legumes and beans

· Fruits (especially dried fruits like dates, raisins, apricots)

· Meat and liver (excellent sources of heme iron)

· Fortified cereals and whole grains

· Milk (though not rich in iron, it’s a valuable part of a balanced diet)

Don’t Forget Vitamin C

· Vitamin C is crucial for enhancing iron absorption from plant-based foods. Include:

· Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons)

· Tomatoes

· Bell peppers

· Berries and guavas

Prenatal Vitamins Are Essential

In addition to food, prenatal vitamins prescribed by your healthcare provider supply important nutrients like:

· Iron

· Folic acid

· Vitamin B12

These supplements help build up maternal stores and support the baby’s development, especially when dietary intake is not enough.

Antenatal Check-Ups: Early Detection Saves Lives

Regular antenatal (prenatal) check-ups are critical. Your doctor can:

· Monitor your hemoglobin levels

· Identify signs and symptoms of anemia early

· Order tests if needed (e.g., iron studies, screening for thalassemia or sickle cell disease)

· Recommend appropriate dietary adjustments, iron supplements, or specialist referral

Conclusion

Anemia during pregnancy should not be seen as a minor nutritional issue. It is a systemic condition with far-reaching consequences and preventing anemia is a shared responsibility—of the mother, the healthcare provider, and the health system. A proactive approach that combines nutritional care, supplementation, and regular medical check-ups ensures better outcomes for both mother and baby.

June 25, 2025: At 81, most people look forward to spending peaceful time with family, but for Mrs. Shanta Roy (name changed), a spirited grandmother from South Kolkata, life took a sudden turn when she was diagnosed with sigmoid colon cancer. The news was overwhelming, especially given her advanced age and existing health conditions. Her family, naturally concerned about the risks of surgery at her age, sought expert consultation at CMRI Kolkata. There, they met Dr. S.K. Bala, Consultant – Surgical Oncology & Advanced Robotic Surgery, known for his precision in minimally invasive cancer treatment and his empathetic approach to patient care.

After a comprehensive evaluation, Dr. Bala recommended a robot-assisted sigmoid colectomy, a minimally invasive surgical technique that offers reduced pain, faster recovery, and fewer complications—particularly beneficial for elderly patients. Initially apprehensive,
Mrs. Roy’s family decided to consult other hospitals across the city. However, despite visiting several reputed institutions, they found that none could match CMRI’s expertise in robotic gastrointestinal surgery. It was the hospital’s Department of Advanced Robotic Surgery and its proven track record, combined with Dr. Bala’s experience, that ultimately brought them back to CMRI.

Just a day before the planned surgery, a routine check revealed a significant mismatch in Mrs. Roy’s blood pressure readings between her arms. Further investigation with CT angiography uncovered a left subclavian artery thrombosis, an unexpected and serious condition that dramatically increased the surgical risk. This development could have delayed or even cancelled the procedure at many centers, but CMRI’s strength lies in its integrated, multidisciplinary approach. Dr. Bala worked closely with the cardiac, vascular, and anesthesia teams to re-evaluate the plan. With careful monitoring and risk management strategies in place, they decided to proceed with the life-saving surgery.

The robot-assisted colectomy, which lasted six hours, was performed with exceptional precision. There were no complications during the procedure, and the tumor was successfully removed with clean margins. The benefits of robotic technology were immediately evident. By the next morning, Mrs. Roy was not only stable, but also cheerful—sitting up in bed and sipping her morning tea with a smile. It was a powerful moment for the medical team and her family alike, reflecting the impact of cutting-edge technology paired with expert care.

Mrs. Roy’s post-operative recovery was smooth and uneventful. She experienced minimal discomfort and required very little pain medication. On the fifth day after surgery, she was discharged from the hospital—walking, pain-free, and filled with gratitude. Her
family expressed deep appreciation for the care, transparency, and excellence they experienced at every step.

Reflecting on the case, Dr. Bala shared, “Mrs. Roy’s story reminds us that age alone should never be a disqualifier for quality treatment. With the precision of robotic surgery and the support of a dedicated, multidisciplinary team, even the most high-risk cases can have safe and successful outcomes.”

CMRI’s Department of Advanced Robotic Surgery continues to lead the way in minimally invasive oncologic procedures in Eastern India, offering hope to patients who may otherwise be considered too fragile for traditional treatment. Mrs. Shanta Roy’s journey stands as a powerful testament to how compassion, advanced technology, and expert surgical care can come together to restore life, dignity, and independence—regardless of age.

Dr. Anju Singla, Co-Founder of Singla Slimming Clinic, said: “We are thrilled to bring our transformative wellness solutions to Gurugram. At SSC, our core belief is to heal from the inside out by addressing metabolic and hormonal imbalances. With our new clinic, we aim to empower more individuals to take charge of their health in a natural, sustainable, and scientifically supported way.”

National, June 21st, 2025: RiteBite Max Protein, the flagship brand of Zydus Wellness, has launched a compelling new campaign titled “Mitti Se Majbooti” this International Yoga Day, spotlighting one of India’s most powerful yet underrepresented fitness traditions, Mallakhamb. This campaign is more than just a celebration of yoga, it is a cultural revival. “Mitti Se Majbooti” takes viewers deep into the heart of India to rediscover Mallakhamb, an ancient sport that blends yogic discipline with gymnastic strength, performed on a vertical wooden pole or suspended rope.

Set against the earthy hues of a traditional akhada, the campaign film captures the journey of young Mallakhamb athletes as they train with unwavering focus and resilience. Each frame echoes the core message: real strength isn’t bought, it’s built, from the mitti (soil) up.

To ensure authenticity, the campaign was created in collaboration with Mallakhamb federations, coaches, and national-level players. The film features real stories from real athletes, showcasing how Mallakhamb has evolved from a warrior-training discipline to a competitive sport, still thriving in local communities despite limited resources.

The narrative climaxes with a moment of quiet triumph, a young athlete, having finished a rigorous training session, reaches for a RiteBite Max Protein Bar, subtly reinforcing the campaign’s message. With 10g of protein, the bar provides sustained energy, seamlessly becoming part of the athlete’s journey.

“Mallakhamb trains both the body and mind in harmony. Our academy has produced national and Olympic-level athletes, and this partnership with RiteBite Max Protein brings us recognition and renewed hope,” shared Anvi Baria, National Gold Medalist – Mallakhamb.

“The roots of Mallakhamb lie in Maharashtra, yet it still lacks official recognition as the state sport. With RiteBite Max Protein’s support, we hope to bring the sport the visibility and respect it truly deserves,” said Ruturaj Shirodkar, National Player and Head Coach, Ruturaj Sports Academy.

“Mitti Se Majbooti is a celebration of discipline, heritage, and inner strength. At RiteBite Max Protein, we believe fitness is more than trends, it’s about honouring what’s always made us strong. Mallakhamb captures that spirit perfectly,” said Dr. Ravinder Varma, Senior Brand Manager, Zydus Wellness.

“We wanted to go beyond the conventional Yoga Day narratives and shine a light on an ancient discipline that truly embodies strength, physically, culturally, and emotionally, This campaign is a tribute to the untold stories of athletes and coaches who continue to keep this tradition alive against all odds.” added Shivam Tiwari, Brand Executive, Zydus Wellness.

New Delhi/Vapi, June 21, 2025: Meril Life Sciences, a leading global med-tech company, marked a significant milestone with the launch of MyClip, India’s first Transcatheter Edge-To-Edge Repair (TEER) system, on June 14. The landmark Structural Heart Innovation event, held at Meril Academy, Vapi (Gujarat) from June 13–15, brought together over 150 Indian interventional cardiologists along with cardiac imaging expert and international stalwarts, including Prof. Ottavio Alfieri (“Father of mitral valve repair”), Prof. Francesco Maisano, and Prof. Agricola, joining global pioneers in edge-to-edge mitral valve repair.

Meril is currently the world’s leading TAVI group following the success of Myval THV and first Indian company to introduce a TEER system, placing the country firmly on the map as an innovator in transcatheter heart valve therapies (with both replacement and repair technology platforms). MyClip introduction demonstrates India’s growing capabilities in structural heart solutions and reflects Meril’s commitment to accessible, cutting-edge cardiac care.

MyClip TEER System is designed for patients suffering from severe Mitral Regurgitation (MR) who are at high surgical risk due to pre-existing issues like hypertension, diabetes, obesity, advanced age, physical frailty, enlarged or weak heart, and patients with kidney, lung, and liver problems. MR, particularly if untreated, has a devastating mortality rate—over 50% of patients may not survive without timely intervention, and 1-year mortality can be as high as 57%.

The MyClip TEER System enables precise closure of the mitral valve flaps, effectively preventing the backward flow of purified blood into the lungs. The procedure is minimally invasive, & takes approximately one hour, and allows patients to return home within 3–5 days. After discharge, patients can resume daily activities like walking and non-strenuous work within a short period post the procedure.

According to the landmark COAPT Study published in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM), patients receiving device-based therapy for mitral regurgitation experienced significantly better outcomes compared to those receiving standard medical treatment. Within 24 months, the hospitalization rate for heart failure was reduced to 35.8% per patient-year in the device group, compared to 67.9% in the control group. Additionally, mortality within the same period was notably lower in the device group, at 29.1%, compared to 46.1% in the control group.

Currently, approximately 150 TEER (Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair) procedures are performed annually in India, with the majority of patients falling in the younger age group (30 – 60). These statistics bring to light a pressing need for early and effective intervention in younger demographics.

The launch of MyClip TEER System marks a transformative moment for structural heart therapy in India. Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair (TEER) therapy has shown significant success over traditional Guideline-Directed Medical Therapy (GDMT). MyClip represents a major step forward in India’s cardiovascular treatment landscape.

In his inaugural speech, Sanjeev Bhatt, Senior Vice President of Corporate Strategy at Meril Life Sciences, said, “In India, around 1.5 million people are known to have severe mitral regurgitation. Of these, at least 1.2 million are post-myocardial infarction (MI or a heart attack) or due to heart failure. Introduction of the MyClip TEER system marks a pivotal shift, and we’re witnessing early adoption. Meril’s efforts in training cardiologists and building TEE-based imaging expertise are crucial steps in scaling this life-saving therapy across the country.”

“With MyClip, Meril is reshaping the country’s role in global medtech. This homegrown innovation is a testament to what Indian science, engineering, and clinical collaboration can achieve together. Meril’s nationwide public awareness campaign #TreatmentZarooriHai is in full swing, with brand ambassador MS Dhoni, to educate patients and families about the life-saving value of timely intervention in mitral valve regurgitation,” Mr. Bhatt added.

The two-day Structural Heart Innovation scientific program featured case demonstrations, interactive hands-on workshops, and presentations leading Interventional Cardiologists and Echocardiologists. The event concluded with a call to build a sustainable M-TEER ecosystem in India, focused on accessibility, clinical excellence, and continuous innovation

Hyderabad, 21th June 2025 – In a moment that blended wellness with luxury hospitality, Ridhira Group successfully hosted an exclusive celebration of International Yoga Day at the serene Ridhira Retreat, Gandipet, bringing together wellness enthusiasts, and special guests for a soulful afternoon of mindfulness and connection.

The event aligned with this year’s official International Yoga Day theme — “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, as announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasizing the role of yoga in sustainability and global well-being. The retreat echoed this sentiment, reinforcing the connection between personal wellness and planetary harmony.

The event featured a rejuvenating Soulful Yoga & Spa session conducted by Advanced Yoga Teacher, Vikas Shenoy offering guests a deeply immersive and calming experience. Participants engaged in mindful movement and breathwork amidst the natural surroundings of the retreat. Guests arrived in comfortable yoga attire, with mats provided by the organizers to ensure a seamless experience. The theme of the event “Breathe | Stretch | Reconnect” resonated across the retreat — from yoga mats arranged in harmony to the thoughtfully curated interactions between participants.

Adding to the holistic experience, guests engaged in one-on-one sessions with Health & Wellness Coach, Aamani Reddy, who offered practical wellness guidance through personalized nutrition coaching. Guests also indulged in foot reflexology and relaxing massages by Ode Spa, creating a sanctuary of rejuvenation.

An immersive Sound Healing session conducted by renowned Sound Healer Kaavya Bhagchandani introduced participants to the deep therapeutic power of sonic vibrations. Using instruments like singing bowls and gongs, Kaavya guided the group through a meditative journey aimed at emotional release, inner harmony, and deep relaxation.

The retreat ambiance was elevated by a captivating live three-piece instrumental performance featuring the sitar, santoor, and tabla—blending traditional Indian music with the tranquil setting of Gandipet. Following the sessions, participants savored a scrumptious yet healthy high tea, thoughtfully curated to nourish both body and soul.

Reflecting on the occasion, Ritesh Mastipuram, Founder of Ridhira Group shared, “Our focus is to reimagine wellness not just as an occasional escape, but as a lifestyle rooted in intentional living. This Yoga Day wasn’t just a celebration, it was a reminder — to pause, to breathe, and to reconnect deeply with ourselves. Our setting in Gandipet, close to Hyderabad yet wrapped in nature, was the perfect canvas for this experience. This is part of a larger movement. Today, we’re seeing a conscious shift toward wellness-led getaways — not just for individuals, but for professionals, influencers, and families. Ridhira is committed to creating such sanctuaries, where wellbeing is not an indulgence, but a way of life.”

The retreat reaffirmed Ridhira Group’s position as a pioneer in wellness-driven hospitality, where sustainability, personalization, and soulful luxury come together in perfect harmony. With similar experiences planned across the calendar, the Group aims to expand this wellness narrative beyond Hyderabad — building bridges between nature and modern living across India.

The experience was curated by Ridhira Group through its own verticals — Ridhira Retreat, Ode Spa Wellness and Ridhira Wellness Real Estate— each known for championing sustainable luxury and holistic wellbeing.

Noida: Ahead of the upcoming International Yoga Day, IMS Noida’s community radio station, Salaam Namaste, hosted a special session highlighting the significance of yoga in women’s health and overall well-being. During the event, women members of Sanskar Vaibhav shared insightful perspectives on how yoga serves as a powerful tool for physical, mental, and spiritual empowerment.

The “Yoga Se Nirog” session was presided over by IMS Noida’s Director General, Professor (Dr.) Vikas Dhawan. In his address, he stated that yoga is not just an exercise but a way of life. For women, it is a powerful means of self-development, health balance, and mental peace. He emphasized that yoga should be included in one’s lifestyle and made a regular part of the daily routine.

The program began with yoga instructor Renu Bala Singh, who highlighted the significance of yoga in women’s daily lives—focusing on hormonal balance, stress management, and the enhancement of immunity. She also guided the participants through simple yoga postures and breathing techniques (pranayama).

Station Head of Salaam Namaste, Barsha Chhabaria, shared that students, female faculty members, and women staff of IMS Noida actively participated in the “Yoga Se Nirog” program. All participants expressed that regular yoga practice not only improves physical fitness and immunity but also boosts mental alertness, self-confidence, and emotional balance. Furthermore, yoga plays a vital role in bringing positive energy, discipline, and inner peace to one’s life. The event encouraged the participants to adopt a healthy, balanced, and conscious lifestyle.