On Father’s Day, Mpower Highlights Sharp Rise in Men’s Mental Health Struggles

Bengaluru, June 16, 2025: On the occasion of Father’s Day 2025, Mpower—an initiative by the Aditya Birla Education Trust—unveiled new insights into a critical yet often overlooked issue: the mental health of men in India.

A comprehensive five-year analysis of Mpower’s mental health helpline data shows a steady rise in male callers from 2020 to 2024. This trend highlights a significant shift in how men are approaching their emotional well-being, signaling a slow but meaningful erosion of stigma around seeking mental health support. Over this period, the helpline has provided a total of 141,212 hours of counseling, underscoring its pivotal role in supporting mental health across diverse demographics.

Key Insights from the Helpline:

  • Total Male Callers (2020–2025): 19,750
  • Peak Year: 2024, with 8,362 male callers
  • Average Call Duration: 7.15 minutes for men, compared to 9.55 minutes for women
  • Total Calls Received (All Genders): 114,776

Over the years, the concerns reported by male callers have evolved. In 2020, top issues included abuse, low self-esteem, and suicidal ideation. By 2021, anxiety and depression took center stage. Since 2022, relationship issues have increasingly emerged alongside anxiety and depression, with persistent concerns about psychological distress becoming more common.

This changing emotional landscape, coupled with a dramatic spike in male callers in 2024, underscores a shift in how men experience and express emotional vulnerability—especially among new fathers who increasingly report feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or isolated.

Rima Bhandekar, Clinical Psychologist and Head of the Mpower Helpline at Mpower—an initiative by the Aditya Birla Education Trust—stressed the urgent need for inclusive mental health reform: “The data from our helpline is a wake-up call. As we celebrate fathers today, we must also acknowledge the silent emotional struggles many of them face. Beneath the image of strength and responsibility often lies unspoken anxiety, self-doubt, and isolation.We’re increasingly coming across young, new fathers who feel overwhelmed—unsure of their ability to care for their child and burdened by expectations. These emotions are not signs of weakness, but clear indicators of mental health distress that deserve our attention and care.

It’s time we move toward Acceptance, Action, and Advocacy—to break the stigma and build a mental health ecosystem that supports everyone, irrespective of gender. It’s essential that we extend mental health resources—such as counselling, emotional support, and peer networks—to fathers as a standard part of care, not an exception. Recognizing their emotional needs is not indulgent; it’s integral to building resilient families and healthier communities.”

For those seeking immediate, confidential support, Mpower’s 1on1 mental health helpline is available 24/7 at 1800-120-820050. The service has become a crucial resource for thousands, offering a safe space for individuals to share and seek help without judgment.

This Father’s Day, Mpower urges families, communities, and policymakers to not only celebrate the fathers in their lives, but also to support their emotional well-being—creating a future where mental health care is accessible, normalized, and prioritized as an essential component of holistic well-being.

Fernandez Hospital opens New Outpatient Clinic in Bogulkunta

Hyderabad, 13 June 2025:  In a move to broaden available, women-focused healthcare, Fernandez Hospital has opened its latest addition — the Fernandez Outpatient Clinic at Bogulkunta. Conveniently located near its flagship hospital’s annexe, the outpatient clinic will provide respectful, expert treatment to women, infants, and children in the heart of the city.

The new addition houses specialist outpatient facilities in one convenient location without sacrificing quality. The Gynaecology department offers specialised consultations and high-tech ultrasonography-guided interventions for ailments such as PCOD, fibroids, infertility, cutting down on stay in hospitals and medical expenses.

The facility also provides Neonatology and Paediatric services, with newborn and child consultations, growth monitoring, and a centralised vaccination service complete with immunisation schedules guided by our experts.

Comprehensive Physiotherapy services offered are antenatal and postnatal recovery care, pelvic floor and post-operative rehabilitation.

Other services include in-house diagnostic services using ultrasonography, sample procurement, in-house pharmacy, private milk expression facilities, and certified lactation counsellors.

“Compassion is the core of everything that we do,” said Dr Evita Fernandez, Chairperson and MD, Fernandez Foundation. “This new clinic is an example of our unbroken vow — to deliver healthcare with dignity, empathy, and clinical excellence.”

Manipal Hospitals’ New Neuro Initiative Brings World-Class Brain Care Closer to Home

Mumbai / Kolkata, 13th June 2025: Manipal Hospitals, a leading multispecialty healthcare institution in Eastern India, has unveiled its state-of-the-art comprehensive neuro team ushering in a new era of integrated and advanced neurological care. This landmark initiative brings together the combined expertise of neurologists, neurosurgeons, neuro interventionalists, neuro radiologists and neuro rehabilitation specialists to deliver seamless, multidisciplinary treatment for a wide spectrum of brain, spine, and nerve disorders. With a strong emphasis on timely intervention, clinical excellence and holistic healing, the programme is designed to offer world-class, research-backed care for both adults and children, further strengthening Manipal Hospitals’ position as a premier destination for neurological excellence.

The announcement was made at a press conference held at Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, spearheaded by Dr. Jayanta Roy, Director & Advisor, Regional Head (East) – Neurology. The event was attended by some of the region’s most esteemed neuro specialists, including Dr. Amlan Mandal, Consultant – Adult & Paediatric Neurology, Manipal Hospital – EM Bypass; Dr. Nikhil Prasun Singh, HOD – Neurology, Manipal Hospital – Broadway; Dr. Dipendra Kumar Pradhan, Senior Consultant – Neurosurgery, Manipal Hospital – Mukundapur; Dr. Rajan Kumar, Consultant – Neurosurgery, Manipal Hospital – Mukundapur; Dr. Biswajit Paul, Consultant Interventional Neurologist, Manipal Hospital – Dhakuria; Dr. Nirmalya Ray, Consultant – Neuro Interventional Radiologist, Manipal Hospital – EM Bypass; Dr. Ansu Sen, Senior Consultant – Neurology, Manipal Hospital – Salt Lake; Dr. Ananya Sengupta, Consultant Neurologist, Manipal Hospital – Mukundapur; Dr. Avik Mukherjee, Consultant Neurologist, Manipal Hospital – Mukundapur; Dr. Subhadeep Banerjee, Consultant Neurologist, Manipal Hospital – Mukundapur; and Dr. Sampurna Chowdhury, Associate Consultant Neurologist, Manipal Hospital – Mukundapur.

Adding to the multidisciplinary strength of the gathering were renowned experts from other specialties, including Dr. Indranil Ghosh, Consultant – Neuroanaesthesiology, Neurointensive Care, Pain and Palliative Care Specialist, Manipal Hospital – Mukundapur; Dr. Saumen Meur, HOD & Senior Consultant – Paediatrics, Manipal Hospital – Mukundapur; and Dr. Shugota Chakrabarti, Regional Head – Medical Services, Manipal Hospitals – East, who also graced the occasion with their presence.

Reinforcing its commitment to inclusive healthcare, Manipal Hospitals has also partnered with Asha Niketan, an NGO devoted to supporting children on the autism spectrum. As part of this compassionate initiative, the hospital has extended free neuro consultations to children under the NGO’s care, an effort that reflects Manipal’s vision of empowering every child with access to quality medical support.

At the heart of Manipal Hospitals’ advanced neuro initiative is the Acute Stroke Management Programmebuilt on internationally recognized Stroke Code protocols. The programme is designed for speed and precision, enabling rapid patient assessment, immediate neuroimaging, and timely treatments like thrombolysis or clot retrieval, all within the critical “golden hour.” This early intervention window often determines the difference between full recovery and lifelong disability.

Supporting this is the robust Neuro Trauma Management service, which provides emergency care for patients with brain injuries caused by road accidents, falls, or blunt trauma. With a highly trained trauma team and state-of-the-art surgical infrastructure, the unit is equipped to deliver swift, often life-saving interventions that can dramatically improve outcomes.

Recognizing that children need specialized attention, Manipal Hospitals has also established a dedicated Paediatric Neurology and Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). This unit offers targeted care for conditions such as epilepsy, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, and congenital neurological disorders. Staffed by paediatric neurologists and critical care experts, it ensures that young patients receive expert-led, compassionate care in a safe and responsive environment tailored to their needs.

Bridging a vital gap in everyday neuro care, the hospital has launched an Urgent Neurology Clinic, which operates daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. This walk-in service is designed to offer immediate consultations for early neurological warning signs—such as dizziness, severe headaches, blurred vision, or limb weakness—symptoms that, if detected early, can prevent major neurological events.

One of the most forward-thinking additions to the initiative is the Stroke Risk Assessment and Prevention Clinic. This clinic focuses on identifying individuals at risk before symptoms appear—using genetic profiling, family history analysis, and lifestyle assessments. Based on this evaluation, patients receive customized plans for diet, fitness, and stress management. In a country where stroke cases are rising alarmingly among young adults, this clinic aims to shift the focus from reactive treatment to proactive prevention—preserving not just health, but also long-term emotional and financial stability for families.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Jayanta Roy, Director & Advisor, Regional Head (East) – Neurology, Manipal Hospitals, emphasized the team’s commitment to both quality and accessibility. “At Manipal, we operate under international clinical standards and invest significantly in training our entire care ecosystem — from doctors to nurses — to maintain consistency and quality across all units. One in four people globally is likely to suffer a stroke at some point in life. That is why our mission is not only to treat but also to educate. The Mukundapur Unit is equipped with a dedicated Paediatric ICU and a Stroke Prevention Clinic, supported by a robust Neurovascular Research Unit. We are also proud to bring the concept of an Urgent Neurology Clinic to India — a model already popular in the UK and USA — with locations being introduced both at our Mukundapur campus in South Kolkata and at Broadway in North Kolkata. Our free consultation initiative for children at Asha Niketan embodies our deep commitment to inclusive healthcare. Just as we have partnered with Asha Niketan, we aspire to extend this reach to more communities—because everyone deserves access to preventive and compassionate care that empowers lives and builds healthier futures.”

Adding to the perspective, Dr. Amlan Mandal, Consultant – Adult & Paediatric Neurology, Manipal Hospital – EM Bypass highlighted the unique multidisciplinary synergy of the neuro programme. “This initiative brings all neuro-related disciplines under one coordinated system, which is essential for the efficient management of complex neurological cases. Whether it is a brain tumour, spinal cord injury, or paediatric neurosurgical need, our unified team approach ensures fast decision-making, precise treatment, and seamless post-operative care. Our Neuro ICU is designed to handle high-risk cases with state-of-the-art equipment and is supported by dedicated neuro-anaesthesia protocols. What we are building here is not just a hospital unit, but an ecosystem where innovation meets accountability — with patient recovery at the center of everything.”

Dr. Dipendra Kumar Pradhan, Senior Consultant – Neurosurgery, Manipal Hospital – Mukundapur reflected on the transformative impact of comprehensive neuro care, “In neurosurgery, every second is a chance to save a life — or change it forever. Whether it is a stroke, a brain injury, or a complex spine case, the decisions we make in those critical moments are life-defining. With our Acute Stroke Management Programme, we have built a system where surgical precision meets speed — enabling seamless coordination from emergency triage to operating room. But true healing doesn’t stop at surgery. Through our Stroke Risk Clinic and Neuro Trauma services, we are helping patients and families understand the risks, prevent recurrence, and walk the road to recovery with confidence. Neurosurgery today is not just about operating — it is about being present at every step of a patient’s journey, from crisis to comeback.”

Dr. Ayanabh Debgupta, Regional Chief Operating Officer – Manipal Hospitals – East, said, “Our focus has always been on making quality healthcare accessible and timely for the communities we serve. With our new neuro initiative, we aim to bring together all essential services under one roof, so that patients and their families do not have to navigate between different places for diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, or follow-up. Whether it is a sudden stroke, a long-term neurological condition, or a child needing specialized care, our team is equipped to respond with speed, clarity, and compassion. This is about building trust and ensuring people receive the right care at the right time.”

With the launch of this comprehensive neuro programme, Manipal Hospitals Mukundapur is reaffirming its position as a regional center of excellence in neurosciences. Through a blend of medical expertise, cutting-edge technology, research-led practice, and a heart for the community, the hospital continues its commitment to ensuring that in the realm of brain and spine health — every second truly counts.

Max Super Specialty Hospital, Vaishali, Conducts BLS Training Program for Esteemed Media Representatives of Ghaziabad

Ghaziabad, June 12, 2025: Max Super Specialty Hospital, Vaishali, successfully conducted a Basic Life Support (BLS) training session exclusively for the esteemed media representatives of Ghaziabad, in the hospital premises today. The event saw the participation of over XX media personnel who were trained to respond effectively to cardiac arrest and other life-threatening medical emergencies.
The primary objective of the event was to highlight the importance of BLS training during emergencies. The participants were provided with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle critical situations effectively. The training session covered a wide range of topics, including CPR, basic first aid, and other emergency response techniques. The session was led by a team of experienced doctors and certified instructors from the Emergency and Critical Care Departments of Max Hospital, Vaishali.
Dr. Dheeraj Bhaskaran Nair, Senior Consultant – Emergency & Trauma, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, said, “Journalists, like healthcare professionals and paramedics, are often present on the ground during emergencies & critical care situations. Providing them with basic life-saving skills is essential, not just for their safety, but also to empower them to contribute to community well-being in critical moments. This training programme aims to raise awareness, build confidence, and equip participants with the ability to respond effectively during emergencies. We are pleased to facilitate such an interactive and educational initiative for members of the media.”
All participants received certificates upon completing the session, recognizing their commitment to learning essential life-saving measures. The initiative was well-received, with all the media participants expressing appreciation for the opportunity to acquire these practical skills, which could prove crucial not only in the field but in everyday life scenarios as well.
Timely intervention and appropriate care can help in reducing the morbidity and mortality rates during emergencies, and with this particular vision in mind, Max Hospital, Vaishali, plans to keep on progressing and moving forward with many such drills and workshops in the future as well.

Men at Greater Heart Health Risk: Redcliffe Labs Study Finds Higher Abnormalities in Heart Health Markers Among Men Than Women

India, 12th June 2025: Aiming to raise awareness around men’s health ahead of Father’s Day, Redcliffe Labs has released a study revealing that men are consistently at a higher risk of developing heart-related conditions. The three-year study, which analysed over 1 lakh preventive health checkups across India, highlights that men exhibit abnormal cardiovascular indicators 11–17% more frequently than women. It highlights the urgent need to take proactive measures to combat the increased risk around men’s heart health.

In the study, Redcliffe Labs analyzed abnormalities for more than 20 health parameters in males and females. The data unveils that men had significantly more abnormal results in total cholesterol, LDL (bad cholesterol), triglycerides, and hs-CRP, all of which are clinically associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease. These parameters serve as early red flags, indicating silent deterioration that can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and other chronic heart conditions if left unchecked.

The findings of the study were particularly notable across several critical cardiovascular markers. Elevated total cholesterol levels, linked to plaque buildup in arteries and increased blockage risk, were observed in 40.2% of men, significantly surpassing the 29.6% recorded among women. Similarly, LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein), commonly known as “bad cholesterol” and responsible for arterial plaque accumulation, was found to be abnormal in 43.9% of men compared to 31.7% in women.

Another crucial highlight was that elevated triglyceride levels, typically resulting from poor lifestyle choices and associated with increased heart disease risk, were detected in 37.4% of men versus 27.1% of women. Another critical marker, hs-CRP (High-sensitivity C-Reactive Protein), which indicates chronic inflammation and early cardiovascular risk, was elevated in 45.3% of men. It is much higher than the 34.2% observed among women.

According to the study by Redcliffe Labs, the elevated heart health risk in men is not a short-term trend but a persistent and growing concern. Heart conditions often progress silently, and significant damage may already have occurred by the time symptoms appear. The study highlights the importance of preventive diagnostics, which helps intervene early and mitigate long-term risk.

Aditya Kandoi, Founder & CEO, Redcliffe Labs, said, “Heart disease doesn’t develop overnight. These early markers are like red flags waving years in advance. At Redcliffe Labs, we believe that timely and affordable diagnostics can shift the curve from treatment to prevention. That’s the true transformation India’s healthcare needs. The earlier the intervention, the higher the number can be for saving lives.”

To mark Father’s Day, and as part of its mission to drive awareness around preventive heart care, Redcliffe Labs is offering a complimentary hs-CRP test with every full-body checkup specially curated for men. The initiative aims to help men take control of their health and detect inflammation-driven cardiac risk well before symptoms appear.

Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, Launches Premium Wellness Lounge Services to Redefine Preventative Healthcare

Mira Road,  — In a major step forward in patient-centered preventative healthcare, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road has officially launched its state-of-the-art Wellness Lounge. This premium facility is designed to provide a seamless, comfortable, and personalized environment for individuals undergoing routine health checkups and diagnostic evaluations.

As one of India’s leading names in preventive care, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road continues to innovate by making healthcare more accessible, accurate, and experience-driven. The newly introduced Wellness Lounge reflects this commitment—offering an elevated approach to full-body checkups through a blend of advanced medical technology and hospitality-grade service.

“The Wellness Lounge is not just a new space; it’s a new mindset toward preventative care,” said Dr. Sushil Kumar, Centre Head, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road. “We’ve reimagined what health screening should feel like—efficient, respectful, and empowering. Our patients deserve more than just results; they deserve an experience that makes them feel cared for at every step.”

The Lounge caters to individuals and families seeking proactive health monitoring with minimal disruption to their daily lives. With a team of expert clinicians and technicians on-site, and NABL Accredited pathology labs, the focus is on accuracy, speed, and convenience.

Key features of the Wellness Lounge include:

  • Customizable health packages suited for different age groups, lifestyles, and medical histories
  • Dedicated lounge spaces that ensure privacy and comfort
  • Fast-track diagnostic processes to reduce wait times
  • One-on-one consultations with physicians for thorough result interpretation and follow-up planning
  • Nutrition and lifestyle counseling to support long-term well-being

Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road has always believed that early detection is the cornerstone of lasting health. The Wellness Lounge is built to help individuals detect risk factors and potential health issues early—before symptoms appear—thus enabling timely intervention and preventive measures.

This initiative aligns with Wockhardt’s larger mission of delivering affordable, high-quality care across its national healthcare network. The Mira Road unit now sets a new benchmark in how preventive care can be experienced and delivered.

For those looking to invest in their health proactively, Wockhardt Hospitals’ Mira Road Wellness Lounge offers a one-stop solution that’s efficient, expert-led, and exceptionally patient-focused.

The War Within: New Hope in the Battle Against Glioblastoma

By Dr. Mangesh B. Patil, Associate Director Radiation Oncology at HCG Cancer Centre Nagpur

The very mention of brain tumour tends to stop you in your tracks. And of all brain tumours, there is one that is especially daunting—glioblastoma. Known for its aggressive nature and resistance to conventional treatments, glioblastoma has often been considered one of the most difficult cancers to treat.

But even in the face of such a formidable prognosis, the landscape is changing. Slowly but surely, science is beginning to shift the narrative—offering new avenues of treatment, deeper understanding, and above all, a sense of hope, where once there was only despair.

Glioblastoma affects the brain’s supportive glial cells and tends to grow rapidly, infiltrating surrounding tissues. This makes surgical removal challenging, and recurrence common. Traditionally, treatment has involved a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy—but despite this aggressive approach, the results have historically been sobering.

What makes glioblastoma unique is that it cannot be approached like other cancers. It’s not simply about removing a lump or shrinking a tumour. It’s about navigating one of the most complex organs in the human body—the brain—without disrupting the very functions that make us who we are.

This complexity is part of what has made glioblastoma so challenging to treat. But this same   daunting complexity is also what has driven some of the most fascinating and forward-thinking innovations in neuroscience and oncology.

The Rise of Personalised Treatment

One of the biggest breakthroughs in recent years has been the shift toward individualised or personalised treatment plans. No two glioblastoma cases are the same—and researchers are now treating it more like a fingerprint phenomenon, rather than a formula.

Today, we have the capability to analyse a tumour’s molecular profile and understand its genetic makeup. This allows specialists to tailor treatment strategies, choosing the most effective medications or therapy combinations, based on a patient’s unique tumour biology.

It’s a move away from the one-size-fits-all approach and toward more targeted, thoughtful medicine—a change that holds immense promise for patients.

Beyond the Scalpel: Modern Neurosurgery

While surgery still plays a central role in managing glioblastoma, the way it’s performed has undergone a quiet revolution.

Techniques such as Intraoperative MRI, Neuro-navigation, and Awake Brain Surgery allow surgeons to map critical brain areas and avoid damage to functions, such as speech, vision, and movement. This has drastically improved the quality of life after surgery and in some cases, allowed for more extensive tumour removal than was once thought possible.

Modern Radiation Therapy: Integral part of treatment

Unlike other parts of the body where surgical excision of tumor with margins is a norm, in brain surgery complete resection is challenging and therefore radiotherapy is an integral part of treatment. Radiation therapy takes care of the residual tumor left behind. Even in those cases of glioblastoma where complete removal of tumor is done adjuvant radiation therapy is essential to take care of the microscopic tumor cells in postoperative tumour bed and the surrounding part. Radiotherapy consists of use of ionizing radiations to damage the DNA of tumor cells causing death of cancer cells. Glioblastoma has a tendency to relapse within few months of surgery. Radiation therapy effectively delays the recurrence of tumor and improves the quality of life of a patient. Modern radiation therapy includes use of magnetic resonance MR imaging to accurately define and delineate the target to deposit the radiation dose accurately and spare the remaining brain effectively reducing the side effects. IGRT image guided radiotherapy is a modern radiotherapy technique in which on board Image guidance like CT computed tomography and MRI helps in precise delivery of radiation. Temozolomide is an oral chemotherapy drug used along with radiation for its radio sensitizing properties making tumor cells more sensitive to radiotherapy.

Immunotherapy: Teaching the Body to Fight Back

Immunotherapy—the science of using the body’s own immune system to attack cancer—has made headlines globally. And while its application in glioblastoma is still being explored, the signs are encouraging.

The concept is simple, yet powerful: train the immune system to recognize the tumour as a threat and launch a targeted attack. Experimental vaccines, T-cell therapies, and checkpoint inhibitors are all being studied for their potential role in treating glioblastoma.

Though not yet mainstream, these treatments represent a radical shift—from attacking the tumour externally, to awakening the body’s internal defence system.

The Promise of Precision and AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning are now part of the glioblastoma conversation. From predicting patient response, to mapping tumour progression, these tools are helping doctors make more informed, faster decisions.

Even in India, top institutions are now integrating AI into radiology and diagnostics, making it easier to detect subtle changes, assess treatment response, and personalise care pathways. This means fewer invasive procedures and more proactive care—especially valuable in a condition as delicate as this.

Hope in Uncertainty

Glioblastoma may still be one of the toughest cancers, but it is no longer the mystery it once was, as evidenced by longer survivals, better recoveries, and more empowered patients. The science is advancing. The tools are improving and significantly, the approach is evolving—from one of fear, to one of fight.

Every day, in labs, hospitals, and consultation rooms around the country, devoted doctors and researchers are working toward a future in which glioblastoma is no longer a dead end, but rather, a battle that we are learning to win.

In India, awareness of brain malignancies is still growing, and we must begin talking freely about these. To the patients reading this, know that you are not alone. To the families, remember that every step you take counts. And to the caretakers and doctors, know that your perseverance is helping to mould the future.

United Way Bengaluru and State Street Support the ‘Divyangjan community’ with Mobility and Assistive Devices

United Way Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Karnataka: June 10, 2025: In a meaningful step toward fostering accessibility and inclusion, United Way Bengaluru, with support from State Street, supported the ‘Divyangjan*’ (differently abled) community through the distribution of mobility aids, and assistive technologies, including 4 e-autos, 10 NeoMotion, 40 SHG Glasses, 3 Kibo and 200 Alexa.

Organized by State Street and United Way Bengaluru, the initiative reinforces two firms’ shared commitment to advancing inclusion, dignity, and opportunity for a brighter, more accessible future. This marks a major milestone in the ongoing efforts to support empowerment of persons with disabilities, especially in areas where access to livelihood opportunities can be limited. Supported by Parihar, an initiative of the Bengaluru Police Commissioner’s office, the e-auto programme is dedicated to creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for those from vulnerable communities. By providing technology-enabled assistive devices that enhance mobility, communication, and learning, the initiative aims to equip individuals with the technology they need to thrive. These devices support mobility and learning and empower users to interact with their environments more fully and independently.

United Way Bengaluru,

“Inclusion is not just a value, it’s a responsibility. State Street is proud to support the Aikyam initiative as part of our broader commitment to accessible innovation. By contributing resources, technology and expertise, we aim to provide persons with disabilities opportunities to education and employment that lead to their economic mobility,” said Arindam Banerrji, Executive Vice President and Country Head for State Street India.

“At United Way Bengaluru, we believe that empowerment begins with access. Aikyam is close to our hearts; it is a flagship campaign that celebrates diversity and inclusion. We are enabling participation and upholding the dignity of our people. We are not just changing lives, but are also opening doors towards accessibility, by empowering our community,” said Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, United Way Bengaluru.

Kolar’s R L Jalappa Narayana Heart Centre Demonstrates Advanced Cardiac Care Capability with Complex Surgery

Kolar, June 10, 2025 — In a remarkable demonstration of high-quality cardiac care at a small city facility, the R L Jalappa Narayana Heart Centre in Tamaka, Kolar, successfully performed a complex cardiovascular surgery on a 53-year-old patient with severe multi-valvular heart disease and critical coronary artery involvement. This case shows that advanced cardiac interventions need not require travel to major metropolitan centres, as expertise and technology are available right here in Kolar.

The patient, Mr Fayaz, had a known history of valvular heart disease with severe mitral regurgitation, aortic stenosis, and tricuspid regurgitation, along with a dangerously low ejection fraction of 25 per cent, was presented with left main coronary artery disease. He underwent a combined procedure involving coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), double valve replacement (DVR), and tricuspid valve repair under the expert care of Dr. Murali Babu M, Senior Consultant Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeon.

The surgery performed, included the elective use of an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) to support the heart during the critical perioperative period. Despite a post-operative ventricular tachycardia arrest, prompt cardiopulmonary resuscitation and multiple defibrillation shocks stabilised the patient. Careful weaning from ventilator and IABP support followed, leading to a full recovery by day nine post-surgery, with the patient’s ejection fraction improving significantly from 25 per cent to 40 per cent.

This successful case highlights the medical expertise of hospitals like Narayana Heart Centre in smaller cities like Kolar, which are fully capable of managing complex cardiac cases with outcomes comparable to larger centres. Patients can now access best cardiac care close to home, reducing the need for travel and associated burdens.

Dr. Murali Babu M stated, “This case is a testament to the advanced capabilities of our heart centre in Kolar. We are equipped and ready to provide comprehensive cardiac care, ensuring patients receive timely and effective treatment without having to travel far.”

The R L Jalappa Narayana Heart Centre continues to pioneer cardiac care in the region, combining expert surgical skills with state-of-the-art technology to deliver excellent patient outcomes locally.

Brain Tumor: A Silent Time Bomb in Your Head Early diagnosis &Treatment Can Stop It

Hyderabad, 7th June 2025: Do you or someone close to you experience frequent headaches, numbness or weakness in limbs, seizures, vision or speech changes, imbalance, or sudden memory issues? These could be early symptoms of a brain tumour, a serious and potentially life-threatening neurological condition. The brain is an important part of our body. If these symptoms become more frequent or severe, it could indicate the growth of a brain tumor. Brain tumors are also a type of health emergency — they often grow slowly but can strike suddenly. Highlighting the unparallel role brain plays and the damage tumors cause, World Brain Tumor Day is observed every year on June 8.
World Brain Tumor Day 2025
On this occasion, CARE Hospitals, one of India’s leading healthcare providers, is amplifying public awareness around brain tumor symptoms, early detection, and timely medical action. This effort is part of its larger commitment under the “Power of 3” campaign, a pledge to save lives by ensuring speed, access, and response during critical emergencies.
To strengthen emergency care, CARE Hospitals has deployed 5G-enabled ambulances across its Hyderabad units. Under its ‘Power of 3’ campaign, the hospital pledges to answer emergency calls within three rings, dispatch an ambulance within 30 minutes, and ensure immediate attention from an ER doctor on arrival.
According to the World Health Organization, brain and central nervous system tumors impact over 300,000 people globally every year. In India, nearly 40,000 new cases are diagnosed annually, and a significant number remain undetected until symptoms become severe.
There are two types of Brain Tumors, Benign and Malignant. Benign brain tumors are noncancerous. Malignant primary brain tumors are cancers that originate in the brain, typically grow faster than benign tumors, and aggressively invade surrounding tissue. Although brain cancer rarely spreads to other organs, it can spread to other parts of the brain and central nervous system. Diagnosis and treatment for Brain Tumors had great advancement in last few years. People with brain tumors have several treatment options. The options are surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Many people get a combination of treatments. Treatments are suggested according to their type, grade, and position of tumor and general health of patient.
Dr Bhavani Prasad
“Research is ongoing into why brain tumors form. Medical researchers have identified some possible causes. People who receive radiation therapy to the head during childhood and those who work in areas with high radiation levels are more likely to develop brain tumors later in life. The disease can also run in families,” says Dr. Bhavani Prasad GanjiSenior Neurosurgeon at CARE Hospitals in Hitech City, Hyderabad.
“In cases like brain tumors or neurological emergencies, delays can be life-threatening. Brain tumour outcomes depend on just two things, awareness and timely action. Through this campaign, we are not just raising awareness, we are backing it with a promise of rapid response and expert care. Appropriate treatment at the right time can save lives,” Dr. Dr. Bhavani Prasad added.