Category Archives: Health

Asia Business Leader Award Recognises Chakravarthi AVPS for Advancing India’s Healthcare Leadership

Recognition reflects India’s growing influence in affordable healthcare, pharmaceutical innovation and patient-centric solutions

Hyderabad, Aug 04: Hyderabad-based pharmaceutical industry leader Mr. Chakravarthi AVPS, Chairman and Managing Director of Ecobliss India Private Limited received an international recognition for his contribution to strengthening India’s global pharmaceutical leadership and promoting patient-centric healthcare solutions.

He was conferred the CMO Asia Business Leadership & Excellence Award under the category Asia Business Leader of the Year – Indian Pharma at a ceremony held at the Pan Pacific Singapore on Tuesday evening.

The award recognises leaders who have made significant contributions to their industries across the Asia-Pacific region. Chakravarthi was honoured alongside distinguished business leaders from several countries, including Dr. Anne Phey, Founder & CEO of The School of Leadership; Rohit Gandhi, Group CEO of APAR Technologies Singapore; Munas van Boonstra, APAC Managing Director of TLC Worldwide; Charu Sethi of OpenRouter; Dr. Tarita Shankar, Chairperson and President Designate of Indira University, among others.

The citation noted that Chakravarthi was selected for his outstanding leadership in championing Indian pharmaceutical capabilities on global platforms, promoting patient-centric healthcare solutions, encouraging responsible pharmaceutical packaging, and building international collaborations that enhance trust in Indian healthcare.

For over three decades, Chakravarthi has represented India at numerous international pharmaceutical, healthcare and packaging forums, consistently advocating India’s strengths in affordable medicines, innovation and quality.

Under his leadership, Ecobliss India has emerged as a pioneer in patient-centric pharmaceutical packaging and medication adherence solutions, an area increasingly recognised worldwide as critical for improving treatment outcomes and reducing medication errors.

Speaking after receiving the honour, Chakravarthi said the recognition belonged to the entire Indian pharmaceutical ecosystem.

“I accept this honour with humility, not merely as a personal recognition, but as a tribute to the remarkable journey of the Indian pharmaceutical industry and to the many colleagues, mentors and institutions who have inspired me over the years.”

He said India today is recognised globally not only as the “pharmacy of the world” but also as a trusted healthcare partner.

“India’s contribution extends far beyond manufacturing medicines. We have made healthcare accessible and affordable for millions across the globe. From supplying life-saving generic medicines to leading the fight against HIV/AIDS with affordable antiretroviral drugs and expanding access to innovative cancer therapies, Indian pharmaceutical companies have transformed global healthcare.”

Highlighting the importance of patient-centric innovation, he added:

“Medicines save lives only when patients take them correctly. At Ecobliss India, we have always believed that packaging is not merely about protecting a product—it is about supporting the patient. Thoughtfully designed packaging improves adherence, enhances safety and ultimately contributes to better health outcomes.”

Chakravarthi also stressed that the future of healthcare depends on greater international collaboration.

“The future belongs to collaboration. When governments, industry, academia and global partners work together, innovation accelerates, trust deepens and patients everywhere benefit.”

Widely respected within India’s pharmaceutical and industrial ecosystem, Chakravarthi has been actively associated with leading industry bodies including FTCCI, CII, FABA, FOPE, Pharmexcil, the , and several pharmaceutical organisations. Through these platforms, he has consistently worked to strengthen global partnerships and showcase India’s pharmaceutical excellence on the international stage.

“Widely respected within India’s pharmaceutical and industrial ecosystem, Chakravarthi has been actively associated with leading industry bodies including FOPE, FABA, Pharmexcil, IPA, CII, FTCCI, INBA, LSSSDC, WPO, IIP among other organisations.”

The recognition comes at a time when India’s pharmaceutical industry continues to expand its global footprint, reinforcing the country’s position as one of the world’s most trusted suppliers of quality, affordable medicines while increasingly contributing to pharmaceutical innovation, patient safety and sustainable healthcare solutions.

Mezzion Reports Positive In Vivo Results for Udenafil in ADPKD

Seoul, Korea, Aug 3: — Mezzion Pharma Co., Ltd. today announced positive results from a new in vivo study of udenafil, a novel phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). In a preclinical ADPKD model, udenafil reduced kidney cyst burden and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), a blood marker linked to kidney function, compared with controls. Both findings were statistically significant and consistent across the treatment groups evaluated.

The study also showed evidence of activity on udenafil’s intended cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling pathway in the kidney.

In addition, udenafil produced a statistically significant reduction in a preclinical measure of cardiac hypertrophy, or heart enlargement. Because cardiovascular complications are an important part of ADPKD, this finding supports further study of udenafil’s potential effects on cardiac remodeling.

The study was conducted at Mayo Clinic in Florida, with Fouad T. Chebib, M.D., serving as principal investigator. The results build on two earlier preclinical studies in which udenafil inhibited cyst growth and reduced cyst burden. Across these complementary ADPKD models, udenafil has shown activity on its intended cGMP pathway, reduced measures of cystic disease, and improved a biochemical measure used in kidney assessment. Together, the data support clinical evaluation in people with ADPKD.

“These findings strengthen the scientific rationale for advancing udenafil in ADPKD,” said Dong Hyun Park, Chairman and CEO of Mezzion. “As previously announced, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) indicated that Mezzion’s nonclinical data package, together with its prior clinical and safety experience with udenafil, provides a reasonable foundation for clinical development. Udenafil has been studied in multiple clinical programs over approximately 20 years, including studies with multi-year exposure. This experience will help inform ADPKD study design and safety monitoring.”

“The consistency across multiple preclinical models is encouraging and supports evaluating udenafil in a well-designed Phase 2b study using established measures of ADPKD progression,” said Ronald D. Perrone, M.D., of Tufts Medicine.

“Patients with ADPKD need more treatment options for this serious, lifelong disease,” said Ridwan Shabsigh, M.D., FACS, President and COO of Mezzion. “Advancing udenafil in ADPKD gives Mezzion a second rare-disease development program alongside our ongoing Phase 3 FUEL-2 study.”

“The preclinical data provide a compelling scientific rationale for clinical evaluation in ADPKD. Unlike vasopressin V2 receptor antagonists, udenafil is being investigated through modulation of the nitric oxide-cGMP pathway, providing a mechanistically distinct therapeutic approach. We look forward to participating in the study,” said Professor Yong Chul Kim of Seoul National University Hospital.

ADPKD is a progressive genetic kidney disease affecting approximately 1 in 400 to 1,000 people worldwide. As kidney cysts grow, kidney function can decline and ultimately lead to dialysis or kidney transplantation. ADPKD is also associated with cardiovascular and other complications.

Mezzion plans to advance udenafil into a Phase 2b study in adults at risk of rapidly progressing ADPKD, subject to finalization of the protocol and receipt of regulatory and ethics approvals. The planned study is expected to evaluate kidney volume and function, disease-related biomarkers, pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability.

Rela Hospital Hosts 3-Km Walkathon to Observe World Breastfeeding Week

Chennai, Aug. 3, 2026: In observance of World Breastfeeding Week, Rela Hospital organised a three-kilometre walkathon from its hospital premises at Chrompet. Over 200 healthcare professionals, including doctors and nurses, took part in the event along with members of the public.

The walkathon was flagged off by Dr Naresh Shanmugam, Director of Women and Child Health, Rela Hospital.

World Breastfeeding Week has been observed annually between August 1 and 7 across the globe to create awareness among the public about the importance of breastfeeding for infants. This year’s theme is ‘Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen That Works’, focusing on tracking progress, evaluating impact, and scaling proven approaches that improve breastfeeding outcomes.

This year, the World Health Organization (WHO) calls on everyone, including governments, communities, and families, to build on successful experiences and strengthen the chain of support for breastfeeding.

Research says that breast milk is a biologically active fluid that changes over time to meet the requirements of an infant. It contains the right balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, easily digestible proteins, and vitamins and minerals. Over the feeding period, breast milk changes in composition from colostrum, which is rich in antibodies and protein, to transitional milk and then to mature milk.

According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019–21), about 63.7% of infants under the age of six months are exclusively breastfed, and only 41.8% are breastfed within the first hour of life, calling for greater awareness among new mothers and their family members.

Dr Naresh Shanmugam stated: “Breastfeeding provides complete nutrition to infants. It strengthens immunity, supports brain and gut development, and lays the foundation for lifelong well-being. It also offers significant health benefits to new mothers by supporting both physical recovery and emotional bonding. Despite its numerous benefits, public awareness regarding breastfeeding continues to remain low.”

“As we observe World Breastfeeding Week, let us reaffirm our responsibility to create supportive environments for every mother who chooses to breastfeed. They deserve every possible bit of encouragement, knowledge, and care,” he added.

Grace Cancer Foundation soon to be Listed on NSE’s Social Stock Exchange: Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli

Hyderabad, Aug 01: The 9th Edition of Quambiant’s Global Grace Cancer Run 2026, powered by Evernorth Health Services, was formally announced at a grand launch event held at Hotel Daspalla, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, on Friday evening.

 The Global Grace Cancer Run 2026 will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Gachibowli Stadium, Hyderabad. The event will be conducted in both physical and virtual formats, with the Hyderabad edition being an in-person event.

 Renowned filmmaker Anil Ravipudi and popular actress Nidhhi Agerwal graced the occasion as Chief Guests and unveiled the official Global Grace Cancer Run 2026 T-shirt and Finisher’s Medal, marking the launch of this year’s global campaign against cancer.

 Speaking on the occasion, Nidhhi Agerwal said, “Doctors are the real heroes. This is not one of the usual events that I attend. Grace Cancer Foundation is doing remarkable work. Prevention is always better than cure. Once you cross the age of 40, make regular health check-ups a part of your life.”

 Addressing the gathering, Anil Ravipudi said that cancer cases are increasing rapidly and stressed the importance of listening to one’s body.

 “Your body is the greatest research centre. A sound body leads to a sound mind. Reduce stress and lead a pleasant life. Stress is the root cause of many ailments. That is why my WhatsApp display picture says ‘Happy Mind, Happy Life’,” he remarked.

 In his characteristic humorous style, he added, “People call doctors heart specialists. In my own way, I am also a heart doctor because I believe laughter is the best medicine. Through my films, I try to make people laugh and keep their hearts happy.”

 He also encouraged everyone to remain youthful in spirit, saying, “Always nurture positive thoughts. The imagination of being young gives you tremendous energy.”

 Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli, Senior Consultant Robotic Surgical Oncologist and Founder of GRACE (Global Research and Cancer Education) Cancer Foundation, said that cancer continues to be one of the world’s biggest public health challenges. However, a significant number of cancers can either be prevented or successfully treated when detected early.

 Dr. Sunkavalli also announced that Grace Cancer Foundation will soon be listed on the Social Stock Exchange of the National Stock Exchange (NSE), enabling greater transparency and wider public participation in supporting its mission.

 “The Global Grace Cancer Run is not merely a sporting event. It is a global movement that combines awareness, prevention, early detection and hope. Every participant becomes an ambassador in the fight against cancer, while every registration helps us reach underserved communities with life-saving screening services,” he said.

 He further stated that the funds raised through this year’s run will be utilised to screen one lakh economically disadvantaged people for cancer and other non-communicable diseases through mobile screening units. The initiative will also support HPV vaccination, awareness programmes, lifestyle modification and preventive healthcare, bringing quality cancer screening and treatment closer to rural communities.

 Dr. Pavan Gorukanti, Director, Yashoda Hospitals, emphasised that early detection of cancer significantly improves the chances of complete recovery and helps patients return to normal life. He urged everyone to adopt an active and healthy lifestyle.

 Mr. Yogendranath, Founder of Quambiant Developers, the Global Title Sponsor, said, “No one should ever suffer because of cancer. We are proud to continue supporting this noble cause and contribute towards saving lives through early detection.”

 Since its inception, the Global Grace Cancer Run has evolved into the world’s largest cancer awareness run, touching the lives of nearly 1.4 crore people across more than 130 countries.

 The Foundation’s vision is to alleviate the cancer burden in society through Education & Awareness, Early Detection, Treatment & Rehabilitation, and Cutting-edge Research.

 The theme for this year’s edition is: “Run for Grace. Screen for Life.”

 The Hyderabad edition is expected to attract around 35,000 participants, while the global event is expected to witness over one lakh participants from more than 130 countries spanning all seven continents.

 Participants can register in 2K, 5K and 10K categories. The event has also earned global recognition with six Guinness World Records.

 Dr. Pedda Reddy Talugula will serve as the Race Director for the 9th edition.

 The event is globally sponsored by Quambiant Developers and powered by Evernorth Health Services.

 More than 400 doctors, healthcare professionals, corporate leaders, cancer survivors, volunteers and supporters attended the launch ceremony, reaffirming their collective commitment to building a cancer-aware society and ensuring that early detection reaches those who need it the most.

 Those interested in participating in the Global Grace Cancer Run 2026 can register online at www.gracecancerrun.com or www.ifinish.in

India Seeks Global Regulatory Unity to Boost Access to Quality Medicines

New Delhi, July 31: India has called for closer collaboration among medicine regulators worldwide to strengthen global healthcare systems, improve regulatory harmonisation, and ensure faster access to safe, effective, and high-quality medicines.

Speaking on the need for greater international cooperation, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said stronger coordination among global regulatory authorities is essential to address emerging healthcare challenges, promote innovation, and build resilient pharmaceutical supply chains.

He emphasised that collaborative regulatory frameworks can help accelerate the approval of medicines, encourage scientific research, and improve the availability of affordable healthcare solutions across countries.

India, one of the world’s largest producers of generic medicines and vaccines, reiterated its commitment to supporting global public health through high-quality pharmaceutical manufacturing, innovation, and adherence to international quality standards.

The minister also highlighted the importance of knowledge sharing, regulatory convergence, and capacity building to strengthen trust in healthcare systems and facilitate the movement of quality medicines across international markets.

The call for enhanced cooperation reflects India’s growing role in the global pharmaceutical sector and its commitment to ensuring accessible, affordable, and safe medicines while fostering international partnerships in healthcare regulation

SimonMed Launches Cardiovascular Longevity, Transforming Heart Disease from a Silent Killer into a Preventable Condition

PHOENIX, Ariz., July 29, 2026 – SimonMed, one of the largest outpatient medical imaging providers and radiology practices in the United States, on July 28 announced the launch of Cardiovascular Longevity, an integrated preventive cardiovascular health program designed to help people understand their health before symptoms develop.

According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, claiming an estimated 19.8 million lives each year, or approximately 32% of all global deaths. In the United States, cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death, claiming more lives each year than all forms of cancer combined. SimonMed is working to change that by expanding access to advanced cardiac screening designed to detect disease before symptoms appear with Cardiovascular Longevity.

Cardiovascular Longevity combines advanced blood biomarkers, Coronary CT Angiography (CCTA) with AI-powered plaque analysis, and a one-on-one consultation with a preventive cardiologist into a single cardiovascular assessment designed to identify disease earlier and create a personalized prevention plan.

Rather than relying solely on medical history, cholesterol tests and imperfect risk calculators, the program provides patients with a more complete understanding of what’s happening inside their heart, what’s driving their cardiovascular risk, and what they can do to reduce it.

“For decades we’ve accepted that heart disease is something we discover after symptoms appear,” said Dr. John Simon, Founder and CEO of SimonMed. “That model is no longer good enough. The technology now exists to identify cardiovascular disease much earlier, understand why it’s developing, and intervene before it becomes life changing. Cardiovascular Longevity represents the future of preventive medicine, where advanced imaging, blood biomarkers, artificial intelligence, and specialist care come together to help patients protect their hearts rather than simply treat disease.”

Cardiovascular Longevity combines three complementary assessments:

Advanced Blood Biomarkers

A comprehensive cardiometabolic blood panel evaluates cholesterol particles, inflammation, blood sugar, Lipoprotein(a), and other biomarkers that help explain why cardiovascular disease develops.

Coronary CT Angiography with AI Plaque Analysis

A non-invasive CT scan allows physicians to see inside the coronary arteries, identifying both soft and calcified plaque before symptoms appear. Advanced AI analyzes the scan to measure plaque burden and provide deeper insight into cardiovascular risk.

Consultation with a Preventive Cardiologist

Following testing, patients meet virtually with Dr. Brandon Rafison, board-certified internist and cardiologist, and Medical Director of SimonMed Longevity, to review their results and receive a personalized prevention strategy.

“Today, we can move beyond guesswork by using advanced imaging to directly visualize the heart and precisely measure atherosclerotic plaque,” said Dr. Brandon Rafison, Medical Director of SimonMed Longevity. “This allows us to determine whether heart disease is actually present and make personalized recommendations based on each individual’s unique risk, helping avoid both over- and undertreatment. By combining these advanced diagnostics with expert clinical interpretation, we’re giving patients clear, actionable insights they can understand and use to take control of their health. Whether we confirm a healthy heart or detect disease early, before symptoms appear, we’re empowering people with information that could prevent a future heart attack, heart failure or stroke. For many patients, that can be life-changing.”

Cardiovascular Longevity is part of SimonMed Longevity, a growing portfolio of preventive health programs designed to help patients detect disease earlier, better understand their health, and take action before symptoms appear. Currently, it is available to patients in California with a national rollout planned later this year.

NPPA Sets Prices for 3,845 Medicines, Strengthening Affordable Healthcare Access

New Delhi, July 28: The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has fixed the retail prices of 3,845 new medicines, a move aimed at improving transparency and ensuring greater affordability for patients.

The government said the price regulation initiative is part of ongoing efforts to make essential medicines more accessible while maintaining a balanced approach for the pharmaceutical industry.

The decision will help bring clarity to medicine pricing and support patients by ensuring regulated rates for a wide range of medicines.

Officials said the government continues to monitor the pharmaceutical market and take measures to promote affordable healthcare and protect consumer interests.

The latest step highlights the focus on strengthening India’s healthcare system by improving access to quality medicines at reasonable prices.

Study: Casdatifan Demonstrates Durable Tumor Responses in Heavily Pretreated Patients with Advanced Kidney Cancer

MIAMI, July 28: A new multi-center clinical study is shedding light on a potential new approach for patients with advanced kidney cancer, offering measurable clinical responses alongside a clearer view into how the disease operates beneath the surface.

Findings from the ARC-20 phase 1 clinical trial show that casdatifan, an oral investigational therapy designed to inhibit hypoxia-inducible factor-2 alpha, produced durable tumor responses with a manageable safety profile in patients with heavily pretreated clear cell renal cell carcinoma, the most common form of kidney cancer. The study appears in Nature.

For a disease that often adapts and resists treatment, the results provide an early signal that a more targeted approach may help slow its momentum.

“These findings are encouraging and suggest we may be able to better understand which patients benefit from targeting this pathway,” said co-author of the study, Jamie Merchan, M.D., co-leader of the Translational and Clinical Oncology Research Program at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, and director of its Phase 1 Clinical Trials Program.

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma is driven in large part by abnormal activation of HIF-2α, a transcription factor that helps tumors grow, spread and survive in low-oxygen environments.

In many ways, the pathway acts like a control center inside the tumor, switching on signals that fuel its growth. While earlier therapies have attempted to interrupt this process, response rates have remained limited in patients whose disease progresses after initial treatment.

Casdatifan was designed to more effectively interrupt that signal, with characteristics intended to improve how the drug reaches and engages tumor tissue.

The ARC-20 study enrolled 127 patients with advanced, treatment-resistant disease, most of whom had received multiple prior therapies. Among patients receiving the recommended dose, the confirmed objective response rate was 35%. Across the full study population, the response rate was 31%, with more than 80% of patients achieving disease control, including stable disease.

Responses occurred within a median of approximately three months. In some cases, tumors continued to shrink over time rather than plateau early.

“These results are notable in a heavily pretreated population,” said Merchan. “They suggest this approach may provide meaningful activity for patients who have limited options.”

The study was a single-arm, early-phase trial and was not designed to compare casdatifan directly with other therapies. Differences in study design and patient populations also limit cross-trial comparisons.

A defining feature of the study is how closely it connects what is happening in the clinic to what is happening inside the tumor. Researchers observed that reductions in serum erythropoietin, a marker regulated by HIF-2α, were associated with higher response rates, lower rates of disease progression and longer progression-free survival.

Tumor analyses reinforced the pattern. Patients whose tumors showed higher levels of HIF-2α-related activity were more likely to benefit, suggesting the drug is engaging the pathway it was designed to target. Together, these findings begin to map a clearer connection between tumor biology and treatment response, helping researchers see not just whether a therapy works, but why.

“This is an important step in understanding how tumor biology may help guide treatment decisions,” Merchan said.

The safety profile of casdatifan was consistent with other therapies targeting the same pathway. Common side effects included anemia, fatigue and hypoxia, most of which were managed with supportive care and dose adjustments. Treatment discontinuation related to the study drug was infrequent, and no treatment-related deaths were reported.

While the results are encouraging, researchers emphasize that additional studies are needed to better define the role of casdatifan in treating advanced kidney cancer. Ongoing clinical trials are evaluating the therapy in combination with other treatments to determine whether outcomes can be further improved.

Casdatifan remains investigational in this setting and is not yet part of standard treatment.

For now, the ARC-20 study offers a clearer glimpse into how targeting a central cancer pathway may influence outcomes, particularly in tumors that appear to depend on that signal.

“In a disease that can shift and adapt over time, even a clearer line of sight into its underlying biology represents meaningful progress, helping guide where research and treatment strategies move next,” Merchan.

India Aims to Build Global Pharma Hub Through Innovation: Piyush Goyal

New Delhi, July 28: The government is committed to strengthening India’s pharmaceutical sector by promoting innovation, research, and global competitiveness, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said.

Goyal said the focus is on creating a strong ecosystem that supports pharmaceutical companies, encourages research and development, and helps Indian firms expand their presence in global markets.

He highlighted that India’s pharma industry plays a crucial role in providing affordable medicines worldwide and has become an important pillar of the country’s healthcare and economic growth.

The minister said continued investment, technological advancement, and collaboration between industry and stakeholders will help India build a stronger and more innovative pharmaceutical sector.

The government remains focused on making the pharma industry more competitive, sustainable, and globally recognised, he added.

Preventive Care and HPV Vaccination Key to Ending Cervical Cancer

New Delhi, July 28: The HPV vaccine can play a significant role in preventing cervical cancer and reducing the global burden of the disease, an Indian-American radiation oncologist has said, underlining the importance of vaccination, early screening, and greater health awareness among women.

The oncologist said cervical cancer is among the most preventable forms of cancer, with a majority of cases linked to persistent infection with high-risk strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Expanding access to HPV vaccination and regular screening programmes can help identify risks at an early stage and save lives.

Highlighting the role of preventive healthcare, the expert said timely vaccination, routine medical check-ups, and awareness about cervical cancer symptoms are essential steps towards reducing the impact of the disease.

Health specialists noted that HPV vaccination provides the greatest protection when administered before exposure to the virus, particularly during adolescence. Along with vaccination, regular cervical screening remains a critical tool for detecting early abnormalities and improving treatment outcomes.

The latest health insights highlight the need to strengthen awareness campaigns and improve access to vaccination and screening facilities, especially in underserved communities.

Doctors said a comprehensive approach combining prevention, early detection, and advanced treatment options could bring the world closer to the goal of eliminating cervical cancer as a major public health challenge.