Category Archives: Health

QNET India Launches ‘Sweet Without Guilt?’ Campaign for World Diabetes Day

QNET India Region Launches ‘Sweet Without Guilt?’ Campaign for World Diabetes Day, Promoting Smarter Wellness Choices

Hyderabad, 12^th November, 2025: QNET, one of Asia’s leading direct selling companies, has launched a new digital campaign titled ‘Sweet Without Guilt?’ to mark World Diabetes Day 2025. The initiative aims to raise awareness about diabetes management and promote informed lifestyle choices that align with QNET’s broader wellness philosophy.

Through the theme #ManageDiabetesWithQNET, the campaign breaks common myths surrounding diabetic diets and emphasizes moderation, balance, and natural wellness. The 30-second digital film showcases QNET’s Nutriplus Monofloral Honey, Nutriplus Natose Stevia, and Nutriplus DiabaHealth – products developed to help consumers make smart, sustainable health choices without compromising on taste or vitality.

The ‘Sweet Without Guilt?’ campaign adopts a relatable “Myth vs Fact” storytelling approach, reflecting QNET’s focus on making wellness communication more accessible. With clean, natural visuals and an empowering tone, the campaign underlines that diabetes management is not about restriction, but about making conscious daily swaps.

Commenting on the initiative, Nischal C, Head of Corporate Communications, QNET India region said,  

“Our mission is to empower individuals to take control of their wellness journey through awareness and choice. This World Diabetes Day, we’re encouraging consumers to explore natural, evidence-backed alternatives that make everyday living both healthier and happier.”

Smiles in the Streets: Building Community Happiness Through Connection

India, 10th November, 2025: A smile is the gentlest expression of goodwill. It does not require translation and has the vibration of goodwill. A smile when consciously expressed will become yoga in action – a gesture that bonds hearts together and alters the energy in a space. It helps to overcome division, relieves tension and makes normal everyday situations gateways to harmony.

The Street as a Living Classroom.

Yoga is more than just what happens on the mat. The big classroom is life and awareness is put to test and is reinforced. Balance and mindfulness come alive on the street-in its sounds, face, and ever-changing rhythm. Every encounter with a fellow creature is the chance to learn how to be present, kind, and stable on the inside. This is what Yoga Beyond the Mat is all about: being mindful when in motion, being balanced when taking action, being serene when interacting. In this way, the mundane world is turned into a spiritual sphere of development.

The Stillness of Movement – The Nature of Sthiti Dhyan.

Even in movement, silence exists; even in words, stillness can be found. Sthiti Dhyan, or State Meditation, is the art of being centred and being fully engaged in life. It is the art of stillness of movement, of calmness of transition. This kind of awareness enables one to be calm but alert, quiet but awake. The smile that comes out of this internal balance will be powerful and graceful. It is a living meditation, it diffuses calmness without utterance, devotion without strenuousness.

The Wave of Human Interconnection.

All relationships are exachange of energy. A simple smile, a patient gesture, or a kind word in a busy space can ripple through the hearts of many and uplift collective consciousness. These minor gestures form invisible circles of trust and warmth. Societies start healing when people use conscious positivity. The mood of a city changes when its inhabitants decide to act with empathy and care rather than indifference and mindlessness. Happiness, therefore, is a collective resonance and not an individual endeavour.

Movement of Light and Laughter.

Smiles in the Streets is a dream of a civil culture founded on understanding and benevolence. This movement under the undergoing of the World Yoga Organization, calls on the citizens, the youth and institutions to join hands to establish harmony through human association. Streets can be turned into the citadens of happiness through the public gathersings, mutual thoughts, and mere acts of kindness.

The streets in India can be bright as well as enlightened not just with light but with awareness places where laughter runs freely, where compassion is culture and where humankind is reminded of their unity. Peace can be opened by the smile of one. When communities are smiling collectively, they create more than a happy society, they create hope, belonging and strength.

Make every smiling a ray of attention. Send it flying round and in between the hearts till all the streets shall shine with the glory of a quiet mind and a happy nation.

Plum introduces CeraSense™: The smart way to winter-proof your skin barrier, minus heaviness

Mumbai, 07th November, 2025: Plum, one of India’s most admired new-age beauty and personal care brands, has launched CeraSense™, a breakthrough winter care innovation that helps skin rebuild barrier, retain moisture, and resist damage all while staying feather-light on the skin.

Powered by the next-gen technology, CeraSense™ is a proprietary ceramide blend that retrains the skin barrier at a molecular level. The smart formula combines Ceramides that rebuild, Peptides that repair, Acai that defends against stressors, Prebiotics that balance the microbiome, and 1% NMF that delivers lasting hydration.

The range features two essentials the CeraSense™ Moisturizing Crème and the CeraSense™ Milky Toner. Clinically proven to strengthen the skin barrier, the moisturizing crème locks in moisture for up to 72 hours while supporting microbiome balance and protecting against environmental stressors. The Milky Toner, specially designed for Indian skin instantly replenishes hydration with a silky, non-sticky texture, leaving skin supple, balanced, and refreshed.

Speaking about the launch, Shankar Prasad, Founder & CEO, Plum, said,

 “With CeraSense, we wanted to go beyond just moisturizing dry skin, our goal was to help skin relearn how to protect and repair itself first. Think of your skin like a cake. Most creams are just frosting—they sit on top. CeraSense goes deeper, like a layered cake, reaching every layer to hydrate, strengthen, and help your skin relearn how to protect and repair itself. With Plum’s clean, effective formulations, every ingredient plays a precise role, giving long-lasting comfort without the heaviness or greasiness of typical winter creams. Skincare that works smarter, feels lighter, and truly gets what your skin needs – that’s CeraSense.”

With CeraSense™, Plum once again brings together smart science and thoughtful care because when it comes to skin and chemistry, Plum gets it right.

“Crore Archana” Concludes with Grand Lamp Ceremony and Festivities

Devotion Meets Culture: “Crore Archana” Concludes with One Lakh Lamps and Cultural Festivities

India, 5th November, 2025: The 27-day-long “Crore Archana” festival at the North Guruvayoorappan Temple in Mayur Vihar concluded on Sunday with a grand ceremony marked by the lighting of one lakh lamps, symbolizing divine illumination and devotion.

The temple premises were beautifully adorned with intricate floral decorations, while devotional music, traditional dance, and cultural performances filled the atmosphere with spirituality. Thousands of devotees from across Delhi-NCR gathered to witness this auspicious moment, creating a scene of collective faith and devotion.

Dedicated to Lord Guruvayoorappan, the festival featured the daily chanting of the Vishnu Sahasranama  the thousand sacred names of Lord Vishnu  repeated millions of times over the 27 days, corresponding to the 27 nakshatras (constellations). Each day also included Kalasham puja, abhishekam, Vedic recitations, and group prayers.

Prior to the rituals, purification ceremonies such as Prasada Sudhi and Bimba Sudhi were conducted, while devotees also participated in special offerings like the Udayasthamaana Puja.

The temple management committee described the Crore Archana as more than just a religious observance calling it a celebration of unity, positivity, and spiritual awakening.

Following the rich traditions of South Indian temple worship, the North Guruvayoorappan Temple continues to serve as a major spiritual and cultural hub for devotees in Delhi-NCR. This year’s Crore Archana  the first of its kind in North India  evoked overwhelming enthusiasm, devotion, and community participation throughout the 27 days.

Dr. Bhupesh Bagga Elected OMIG President at LVPEI’s Bug Busters 5 and AMR Awareness Run

Leadership and learning at LVPEI: Dr Bhupesh Bagga elected OMIG President amid Bug Busters 5 and AMR Awareness Run

Hyderabad, 3rd November, 2025: Dr Bhupesh Bagga, Consultant Ophthalmologist – Cornea & Anterior Segment at L V Prasad Eye Institute was elected as president of the Ocular Microbiology and Immunology Group, (eyeomig.org/Facebook) an international non-profit organization of physicians and scientists who focus on the study of “bugs and drugs” in the eye. 

The group was established in 1990 and is based in Pittsburgh, USA. The group’s core mission is to present new information on ocular infections, the immune system’s response to them, and related treatments. Participation in their annual meeting where they discuss topics like infectious agents, immunity, inflammation, and new data and statistical analysis is much sought after by scientists and clinicians worldwide. 

Dr Bhupesh spearheaded the Bug Busters 5 Conference organized by LVPEI between Oct 31 – Nov 2, 2025. The conference saw in-person and virtual participation of both national and international speakers. Around 120 delegates from across India participated in the three-day conference. Papers and sessions were presented on various aspects of ocular immunology, microbiology, and pharmacology.  

Corneal infections pose significant challenges to eye health, and finding effective solutions requires a multidisciplinary approach. Bug Busters was conceived by LVPEI to explore the latest advancements in corneal infection research and enable multidisciplinary collaboration among ophthalmologists, microbiologists, immunologists, and other professionals working in the domain. It brings together leading experts, researchers, and clinicians from around the world to exchange knowledge, present groundbreaking findings, and discuss cutting-edge strategies in the field of corneal infections. 

Bug Busters 5 enabled engaging discussions, interactive sessions, and thought-provoking presentations that delved into the complex nature of corneal infections and explored innovative approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

As part of Bug Busters 5, a ‘Race Against Resistance AMR Awareness 4K Challenge’ was organized today, starting at L V Prasad Eye Institute, Kallam Anji Reddy Campus, Banjara Hills. The run was organized as a precursor to the World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW), a global campaign held annually from November 18–24 to raise awareness about Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR) and promote best practices to combat it.

On this occasion Dr Shivaranjani Santosh, Paediatrician, Magna Centres for Obesity, Diabetes, and Endocrinology, Hyderabad; said, Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) arises from the excessive and indiscriminate use of antibiotics. When antibiotics are misused, they lose their effectiveness, failing to work when they are truly needed to fight bacterial infections. Tragically, many lives are being lost because medicines that once saved lives no longer work. We must act responsibly. Avoid buying antibiotics over the counter or using them for every minor illness, many ailments are caused by viruses or other non-bacterial factors where antibiotics offer no benefit. Antibiotics should be used only when bacterial infection is confirmed, strongly suspected, or in high-risk cases where timely intervention is critical. The government must strictly regulate over-the-counter antibiotic sales. Patients should stop self-medicating. Doctors must prescribe antibiotics judiciously, and RMPs should refrain from administering high-dose antibiotics or steroids unnecessarily, such practices can endanger lives.

Dr Prashant Garg, Executive Chair, L V Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI); said, Indiscriminate use of antibiotics poses a serious threat to our community. I urge everyone not to buy medicines over the counter, and never to use antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription. Always ensure that you complete the full course prescribed, stopping midway only fuels resistance. When we use antibiotics responsibly, not just for humans, but also in poultry and animal husbandry, we can collectively overcome this growing menace and safeguard health for generations to come.

Dr Ponnari Gottipati, Associate Director Research, LVPEI & Co-Founder, Super Heroes against Superbugs; said, Antimicrobial resistance is fast emerging as a grave concern for humanity. The very antibiotics that empower us to treat critical ailments, from cancer therapies and organ transplants to cesarean deliveries, are losing their power. These wonder drugs help us fight infections that arise during such treatments, but their overuse and misuse are rendering them ineffective. Today, antibiotics are being consumed excessively, often without need or proper guidance. This alarming trend means that even minor infections, which were once easily curable, could soon become life-threatening. The lack of awareness around this issue is a serious challenge. This run is our collective step towards creating awareness. We aim to educate everyone on the responsible use of antibiotics, understanding when they are necessary, when they are not, and why they should never be taken without a doctor’s prescription. Buying antibiotics over the counter, sharing them between patients, or stopping the course midway, all these practices fuel resistance. Completing the full course as prescribed by a medical professional is vital to ensure antibiotics remain effective for everyone. Together, we can fight this invisible enemy. Through this awareness run, let’s pledge to use antibiotics wisely and safeguard their power for future generations.

Organized in collaboration with Superheroes Against Superbugs initiative, the run included a fun element where runners solved puzzles related to antimicrobial resistance. About 200 enthusiastic clinicians, scientists and the public participated in the run to create awareness on the harmful effects of the misuse and overuse of antibiotics.

Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR) is one of the fastest-growing health threats of our time and most people don’t even know they could be contributing to it!  Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has been prioritized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the top 10 global public health threats facing humanity.

The latest AMR report by the World Health Organization (WHO) quotes experts describe findings, “as deeply concerning and predict 70% increase in related deaths by 2050.” It also states, “more than 40% of antibiotics losing potency against common blood, gut, urinary tract and sexually transmitted infections between 2018 and 2023.”

India ranks among the top countries globally for age-standardized mortality due to AMR. In 2019, India had approximately 297,000 deaths directly attributable to AMR and over 1,042,500 deaths associated with AMR as a contributing factor. About 66-67% of reported AMR cases were from the productive age group of 15 to 64 years. The high rates of infectious diseases make antibiotic use—and misuse especially important to create awareness about.

Underweight and Unbalanced: Gut Microbial Diversity in Underweight Japanese Women

Researchers link BMI and differences in gut microbiota in young, underweight Japanese women

November 1, 2025: Low body weight in young women has been associated with various health concerns. Rising trends in the proportion of underweight women between the ages of 20 and 39 have been seen in Japan, raising concerns. In a first-of-its-kind study, Dr. Katsumi Iizuka and Dr. Hiroaki Masuyama from Japan have found that underweight Japanese women had a lower gut microbiota diversity and more inflammation-linked microbes. These findings suggest gut health is critical in weight control.

Low body weight in young women has been linked to a range of health concerns, including disrupted menstrual cycles, infertility, weakened immune function, and a long-term decline in bone density. Japan has seen a rising trend in the proportion of underweight women between the ages of 20 and 39, with little to no change over the past two decades. The persistence of this trend raises concerns over the long-term health implications, especially as lean body weight has been correlated with changing dietary habits, diseases like anorexia nervosa, and even imbalances in gut microbiota. While previous research has reported lower alpha gut microbiota diversity in the underweight and overweight categories compared to those with normal weight, the differences in gut microbiota diversity in young, underweight Japanese women remain unclear.

To explore this further, a team of researchers from Japan, led by Dr. Katsumi Iizuka, a Professor at the Department of Clinical Nutrition, Fujita Health University, Japan, and Dr. Hiroaki Masuyama, Symbiosis Solutions Inc., set out to investigate the link between body type, dietary patterns and gut microbiota diversity in young, underweight Japanese women. They focused on understanding whether the gut microbiota diversity differed significantly between women who were underweight and those with normal body mass index (BMI). Their research was published in Volume 17, Issue 20 of the journal Nutrients on October 17, 2025. Prof. Iizuka says, “The differences in the diversity of the gut microbiota of young Japanese women by body weight have not been investigated. If differences in the gut microbiota between thin young women and women of normal weight become clear, I believe that improving eating habits could lead to improvements in the gut microbiota and consequently, body weight.”

The study observed and compared 40 underweight women with 40 age-matched women, between 20 and 39. The underweight group included women who were referred to the Nutrition Clinic at Fujita Health University with a BMI less than 17.5 at their first consultation, while the control group was composed of women with normal BMI (18.5 ≤ BMI < 25) and were selected from a database by Symbiosis Solutions Co., Ltd. (Tokyo, Japan). Stool samples were collected using standardized kits, while food frequency questionnaires were used to assess dietary patterns.

Interestingly, the researchers found no significant differences in dietary patterns between the two groups. However, an analysis of the gut microbiota showed that underweight women had a significantly lower microbiota diversity and an increased presence of species, such as Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, and Erysipelatoclostridium, which are linked to inflammation. On the other hand, the normal-weight group had a healthier abundance of bacteria like Prevotella and Dorea. Prof. Iizuka mentions, “Among Japanese women aged 20–39, those in the underweight group showed a greater decrease in gut microbiota diversity compared to the normal-weight group, rather than differences in dietary patterns.” He adds, “Underweight women demonstrated reduced gut microbiota diversity and enrichment of taxa associated with inflammatory tendencies.”

These findings suggest that gut health is as important as caloric intake when it comes to addressing low body weight. Prof. Iizuka explains, “Not only the amount of energy or the ratio of protein, fat, carbohydrate, but actively consuming dietary fiber and fermented foods may lead to weight improvement in underweight individuals by causing changes in the gut microbiota.”

When asked about the long-term implications of the study, he said, “By combining the dietary survey data with gut microbiota analysis, it may become possible to evaluate not only the nutrients and energy contained in food, but also the quality of digestion and metabolism within the intestines after eating.”

With gut health gaining global attention, the findings of this study offer new insights into how the gut microbiota could aid in more personalized nutritional care for underweight Japanese women.

Obesity and Yoga: Reconnecting Mind, Body, and Metabolism

India, 31st October 2025: Obesity has emerged as one of the most pressing health concerns of modern times, affecting not only physical appearance but also emotional balance and metabolic health. It often stems from unhealthy eating habits, stress, hormonal imbalances, and a lack of mindful movement. Yoga offers a holistic and restorative solution to this growing lifestyle challenge helping rejuvenate the body’s natural rhythm, boost metabolism, and promote emotional harmony.

Yoga fosters a deep connection between awareness and action. Through regular practice, individuals learn to listen to their bodies, restore digestive strength, and regulate energy flow. This state of balance supports sustainable weight management, emotional stability, and the inner vitality necessary for long-term well-being.

Among the many asanas that help manage obesity, Utkatasana (Chair Pose) strengthens the thighs, hips, and spine while improving endurance. By engaging large muscle groups, it enhances metabolism and promotes calorie burning. Naukasana (Boat Pose) activates the core, improves digestion, and supports metabolic function all vital to maintaining a healthy weight. These asanas also cultivate focus and discipline, key ingredients for any lasting wellness journey.

Additionally, Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) serves as a complete body workout that synchronizes movement with breath. Practicing several rounds in the morning invigorates metabolism, stimulates the cardiovascular system, and enhances flexibility. Its rhythmic flow unites mind and body, bringing both mental clarity and physical strength.

Pranayama techniques such as Kapalabhati and Anulom Vilom further enhance the benefits of yoga. Kapalabhati, or “skull-shining breath,” energizes the body and purifies internal systems, while Anulom Vilom balances the nervous system, alleviates stress, and stabilizes metabolism.

Beyond physical postures, yoga nurtures mindfulness a transformative element that reshapes our relationship with food and daily habits. It teaches mindful eating: savoring each bite, recognizing true hunger, and avoiding emotional overeating. This union of mindful awareness and consistent practice becomes a powerful ally in rebuilding confidence, discipline, and balance.

Sustained commitment to a yogic routine combining asanas, pranayama, and short meditation sessions gradually strengthens the body, enhances digestion, and lightens the mind. Over time, practitioners experience an inner transformation that inspires regularity, self-care, and empowerment.

When approached through a yogic lens, obesity transcends being a mere physical issue it becomes a journey of self-renewal. Yoga realigns the mind, body, and metabolism through awareness, discipline, and breath, guiding individuals toward holistic healing and reminding each of us that true wellness begins within.

Occupational Therapy in Action: KOTA and AIOTA Jointly Mark World OT Day with New App Launch

Thiruvananthapuram, 27th October, 2025: The Kerala Occupational Therapists’ Association (KOTA) and the All India Occupational Therapists’ Association (AIOTA) jointly celebrated World Occupational Therapy Day. The event held in Thiruvananthapuram, was inaugurated by former minister and Kazhakoottam MLA, Kadakampally Surendran. M. Abdunnasir, Chairperson of the Kerala State Allied and Healthcare Council, was the Chief Guest.

During the inaugural function, the Kerala Occupational Therapists’ Association’s new mobile app was launched. The KOTA Community Mobile App is a centralized digital platform for occupational therapists in the state that aims to enhance connections, collaboration, and service accessibility among the members. The facility is also available for the public to find information, including where occupational therapists practice in government and private sectors, and their membership status. The app will also feature a community forum for members to discuss topics related to occupational therapy and information on various workshops.

The event was organized focusing on this year’s World Occupational Therapy Day theme, ‘Occupational Therapy in Action’, to increase public awareness about occupational therapy and highlight the field’s importance in society.

“We are celebrating this year’s World Occupational Therapy Day in a social context where Occupational Therapy has been proven effective in the treatment of conditions including Autism, Cerebral Palsy, and ADHD,” said Kadakampally Surendran MLA during his inaugural speech. “While we take pride in the achievements Kerala has made in the health sector, the reality remains that there is a lack of awareness in society about fields like Occupational Therapy. Such shortcomings must be addressed through practical actions”. He added.

“The World Occupational Therapy Day celebration holds great significance, as it comes at a time when a unified syllabus and curriculum for occupational therapy have been introduced in the country,” said Dr. Joseph Sunny Kunnacherry, Honorary Secretary of the All India Occupational Therapists’ Association. He added that “We are passing through a moment that truly marks the gravity of occupational therapy in the health sector.,” Dr. Joseph Sunny is also a key person who played a significant role in the historical changes in the field of occupational therapy recently announced by the Central Government.

Occupational therapists who demonstrated excellent performance in the field, and this year’s rank holders from the Kerala Health University were honored at the ceremony. There were various cultural programs by the occupational therapy students from the National Institute of Speech and Hearing (NISH) National Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (NIPMR) and KMCT College Of Allied Health Sciences.

KOTA President, Dr. Mary Philip, Secretary, Dr. Smruthy Jose C, AIOTA Honorary Secretary, Dr. Joseph Sunny Kunnacherry, Organizing Chairperson, Dr. Vinith Dani Joseph, Secretary Dr. Joseph Bose, Dr. Anna Daniel (National Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation) and Dr. Muhammed Shareef (KMCT College of Allied Health Profession) were present.

AIOS Calls for an Immediate Ban on Carbide Guns and Improvised Firecrackers

New Delhi/ Hyderabad, October 24, 2025…..The All India Ophthalmological Society (AIOS), the world’s largest professional society of eye specialists, has issued an urgent national appeal to the Central and State Governments and District Authorities for an immediate ban on carbide-based and improvised explosive firecrackers that have caused a sharp rise in severe eye injuries, particularly among children, this festive season. These crude “carbide bombs” or “carbide guns” are chemical explosives capable of causing permanent blindness, disfigurement, and disability.

AIOS has demanded a nationwide crackdown, FIRs against manufacturers and sellers, and disruption of the supply chain for calcium carbide and related materials. The Society has also called for an intensive public awareness campaign and hospital emergency preparedness to prevent further ocular injuries.

“Ban carbide firecrackers now — protect every eye, every child.” says AIOS

The All India Ophthalmological Society (AIOS) represents over 28,000 eye specialists across India.

Ophthalmologists and hospitals across several states have reported a surge of severe ocular burns and trauma, particularly among children, caused by so-called “carbide bombs” or “carbide guns” — crude explosive devices made from calcium carbide and water that release explosive acetylene gas. These are chemical bombs, not conventional firecrackers, and they cause: Blinding chemical and thermal burns, Corneal destruction and irreversible vision loss and Permanent disfigurement and disability

With Chhath Puja and other festivities approaching, continued use of such hazardous devices could lead to another wave of preventable blindness and severe facial injuries.

AIOS demands immediate Government Action

1. Nationwide Ban and Crackdown

• Immediate ban on manufacture, sale, transport, and use of carbide-based firecrackers.

• Ban can be enforced by the central and state governments and district administrations

• Enforce strict compliance through police, district administrations, and pollution control authorities.

2. Public Awareness Campaign

• High-visibility campaigns on TV, radio, print, digital, and social media.

• Special focus on schools and parental education to prevent children from experimenting with these devices.

3. Emergency Hospital Preparedness

• Maintain 24-hour ophthalmic emergency readiness.

• Ensure adequate supplies for eye irrigation, surgical repair, and trauma management.

4. School and Community Vigilance

• Strict prohibition of device use by children and youth.

• Report possession or use to local authorities.

5. Legal Action and Supply Chain Disruption

• Register FIRs under explosives, consumer safety, and public health laws.

• Disrupt the supply chain of calcium carbide and other component materials, both offline and online.

The rise in these preventable, blinding injuries is alarming and unacceptable. We urge the Government to act decisively and immediately to save vision and lives, said Dr Partha Biswas, President, AIOS in a press statement issued today.

Let this season of light not become a season of darkness. Ban carbide firecrackers now. Protect every eye, every child, added Dr Jeevan Singh Titiyal, President Elect, AIOS

Dr Mohan Rajan, Vice President, AIOS, adds that every child’s eye is precious. These crude explosive devices are destroying vision and lives. We must act now to protect children and prevent lifelong suffering from blindness

Dr Santosh G. Honavar, Honorary Secretary, AIOS, says AIOS calls on authorities, schools, and parents to ban carbide firecrackers and raise awareness. Together, we can ensure the festival of lights does not turn into a season of darkness.

Carbide and improvised firecrackers are not mere festive hazards—they are chemical explosives causing permanent blindness. Immediate government intervention is crucial to stop this preventable tragedy. – Dr Manoj C Mathur, Treasurer, AIOS

For Further Information: All India Ophthalmological Society (AIOS) AIOS Secretariat, New Delhi, email: secretary@aios.org, Mobile/WhatsApp: +91-98483-04001

How lifestyle changes can reduce breast cancer risk

BY: Dr Gaurav Goel, Surgical Oncologist, HCG Cancer Centre, Jaipur

Every parent wants to protect their family’s health, especially when it comes to serious illnesses like breast cancer. Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers among Indian women, but the positive aspect is that simple lifestyle changes can significantly lower the risk. Taking steps today not only helps safeguard the health of mothers, daughters, and grandmothers but also sets an example for future generations about the power of prevention. Understanding how everyday choices from diet to physical activity, impact breast health can empower families to act before cancer develops. 

Understanding Breast Cancer Risk

Breast cancer risk in India is shaped by a complex blend of genetic, reproductive, lifestyle, and socio-economic factors. Recent studies highlight that women who experience delayed marriage and first childbirth, have fewer children, or start menstruation early face higher breast cancer risks due to prolonged exposure to estrogen. Postmenopausal obesity is another major risk factor, as excess fat tissue produces estrogen, increasing cancer growth likelihood. Lifestyle habits such as physical inactivity, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption also contribute independently to raising risk. Conversely, protective factors include multiple pregnancies, extended breastfeeding, and maintaining a healthy body weight. These risk profiles vary significantly across regions in India due to cultural, dietary, and socioeconomic diversity, which also impacts the prevalence and stage at which breast cancer is detected.

Data from the Indian Council of Medical Research and population-based cancer registries emphasize that metropolitan areas like Chennai, Bengaluru, Delhi, and Telangana report higher breast cancer incidence compared to rural regions. Urban lifestyles characterized by sedentary behaviour, obesity, and lower breastfeeding rates partly explain this disparity. The risk peaks in women aged 40 and above but is increasingly seen in younger women under 50, underscoring the need for targeted awareness and early detection programs. Socioeconomic barriers such as limited health literacy, delayed symptom disclosure, and inadequate healthcare access often result in late-stage diagnosis in many parts of the country. Hence, comprehensive strategies considering these diverse risk factors, lifestyle modifications, and enhanced screening are essential to effectively reduce the breast cancer burden in India.

The Link Between Lifestyle and Breast Cancer Risk

Studies from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP) highlight how modifiable lifestyle factors play a crucial role in breast cancer risk. Excess body weight, especially after menopause, raises risk by increasing estrogen levels that fuel cancer growth. Physical inactivity also adds to this risk, while regular exercise reduces it by helping hormone regulation and improving immune function. Diet is another key area; consuming too much processed and high-fat food may increase cancer risks, while a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains offers protection. Alcohol consumption and tobacco use further elevate risk by causing DNA damage and immune suppression. 

Acting: Simple Lifestyle Changes

Adopting a healthier lifestyle does not require drastic measures but rather steady, manageable changes. Aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, like brisk walking or yoga, not only cuts cancer risk but enhances overall wellbeing. Focusing on a plant-based diet that includes fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and limits processed foods and red meat helps control weight and supports a strong immune system. Women are encouraged to limit alcohol intake to safe levels and avoid tobacco entirely. Supporting breastfeeding mothers and educating communities on reproductive health choices form an essential part of prevention. Programs by MoHFW and community health workers are successfully promoting these shifts even in rural areas, where challenges remain. Family involvement is key, parents and caregivers can lead by example, reinforcing these habits in children and relatives to nurture a culture of health.

The Benefits Beyond Prevention

Beyond reducing cancer risks, these lifestyle changes improve quality of life by lowering the chance of other illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Early detection remains critical, but empowering families with knowledge and habits that prevent cancer in the first place is even more effective. Indian data suggest that lifestyle interventions, when widely adopted, could shift breast cancer trends positively over decades, saving lives and reducing treatment costs. Healthcare providers play a vital role in counselling and supporting individuals on these changes, tailoring advice to cultural and socioeconomic contexts. Technologies such as fitness apps and telehealth offer promising future tools to enhance accessibility and motivation across diverse Indian populations.

Building a Hopeful Future

Breast cancer is a challenge that no family wants to face, but the power to reduce risk lies within everyday choices. By adopting healthier eating, staying physically active, avoiding tobacco and excess alcohol, and supporting breastfeeding and reproductive health, families can take meaningful steps together. This not only protects women but raises a hopeful generation aware of their health. Protecting your loved ones starts with action today, embrace these lifestyle changes to build a healthier tomorrow.