20, Jan 2025
Ensuring IVF Success Amidst the Cold Weather
Dr. Neelam Banerjee, Senior Consultant & Head of Department – IVF, Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida
As winter grips many parts of India, couples undergoing in-vitro fertilization (IVF) face challenges that go beyond the treatment itself. While the cold season brings some respite from scorching heat, it also introduces physiological and environmental factors that can influence IVF success rates.
Emerging research highlights how winter weather, combined with associated lifestyle changes, may negatively impact reproductive health. For couples already navigating the emotional journey of IVF, understanding these challenges is key to improving outcomes.
The Impact of Winter on Reproductive Health
One of the most significant effects of winter is reduced blood circulation due to cold temperatures. This constriction of blood vessels can limit oxygen and nutrient flow to reproductive organs, affecting ovarian function and the uterine lining’s ability to support embryo implantation.
Hormonal imbalances are another concern. Seasonal changes, including shorter days and reduced sunlight exposure, can disrupt the body’s natural hormonal rhythm. Low levels of vitamin D, often observed during winter, are linked to reduced fertility in both men and women. For women, vitamin D plays a crucial role in egg maturation and embryo quality, while in men, it impacts sperm motility and overall reproductive health.
Challenges in IVF Success Rates
Winter-related factors can compound the challenges of IVF. Poor blood circulation and hormonal disruptions may affect the development of high-quality eggs and embryos, critical components for a successful IVF cycle.
Infections, particularly respiratory illnesses like flu and colds, are also more common during winter. These infections can weaken the immune system, making the body less receptive to embryo implantation and increasing the risk of early pregnancy loss.
Steps to Counter Winter Challenges
To counter the challenges posed by winter on IVF success, it is essential to take a holistic approach to health and well-being. Regular light exercises like yoga or walking can enhance blood circulation to the reproductive organs, while staying warm and avoiding prolonged exposure to cold further supports optimal blood flow.
Addressing vitamin D deficiencies through regular sunlight exposure, supplements, and a diet rich in fortified foods is equally important. Strengthening immunity by consuming antioxidant-rich foods, staying hydrated, and taking precautions against seasonal infections, such as flu, can protect overall health during this time.
Additionally, managing stress through meditation, mindfulness, and counselling can help maintain hormonal balance. Lastly, consulting fertility specialists ensures personalized care to address individual risks and optimize outcomes during the winter months.
As IVF becomes an increasingly accessible option for couples in India, it is vital to recognize the influence of environmental and seasonal factors on its success. While winter may bring certain hurdles, an informed and proactive approach can ensure these challenges are managed effectively.
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- By Sujata Achary
31, Dec 2024
Modern-day stress and risk of diabetes
(Dr. Manjunath Malige, Director – Diabetes & Endocrinology, Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru)
These days, the term “stress” is rather common. But is diabetes brought on by stress? No! Although it can impact your blood sugar levels, it doesn’t cause diabetes. Though stress cannot be avoided, we can control it by learning how it functions and how to deal with it.
Mechanism of Stress
The adrenal glands produce two key stress hormones: adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline helps increase heart rate, blood pressure, and provides a surge of energy. Cortisol, the main stress hormone, boosts blood sugar levels, supports brain function by improving glucose use, and aids in tissue repair by making necessary resources more accessible.
Additionally, in a fight-or-flight scenario, cortisol slows down processes that would be dangerous or unnecessary. It alters the immune system’s reaction and inhibits the development of the reproductive and digestive systems. Moreover, this complex natural alarm system affects the brain that controls our emotions and feelings.
How our body manages stress
Generally speaking, the body’s stress response mechanism is self-limiting. Hormone levels return to normal after a perceived threat has passed. Your blood pressure and heart rate return to normal when your cortisol and adrenaline levels decline.
Other systems resume their normal operations. However, that fight-or-flight response remains activated when there are constant stressors and you constantly feel attacked.
Impact of chronic stress on hormones
Prolonged activation of the stress response system and excessive exposure to stress hormones like cortisol can cause disruptions in nearly every bodily function.
Known as insulin-resistant, these two hormones can make insulin less effective by preventing the pancreas from producing insulin cells. Stress can trigger the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis. Higher cortisol and reduced sex hormone levels are two examples of the hormonal alterations that may result from this. Insulin levels depend on these hormone levels. Stress causes some people to overeat, which can contribute to weight gain and worsen diabetes.
Long-term effect of stress on diabetes
Stress can be both acute and chronic. Both may result in a variety of negative consequences, but long-term stress can have detrimental impacts on one’s health. The primary hormonal reaction to stress is mediated by catecholamines and glucocorticoids (GC). These hormones don’t have any negative consequences right away, but over time, they might cause problems with glucose homeostasis. Insulin resistance and type II diabetes may result from this disruption of glucose homeostasis, which can cause persistent hyperglycemia.
Symptoms of stress
Anxiety, depression, headaches, muscular tension, heart disease, heart attack, high blood pressure, stroke, sleep disturbances, weight gain, memory and concentration troubles, and hormonal imbalances are among the many of the health issues that stress can exacerbate.
A person’s waist-to-hip ratio may increase if their hormone levels are out of balance. When there is a greater waist-to-hip ratio, the waist is bigger than the hip. This poses a significant risk for both diabetes and heart disease.
Managing Stress
Individuals respond differently to stressful situations because of things like heredity and life experiences. Comprehending your individual stressors is crucial. It is possible to safeguard both your physical and mental well-being in difficult conditions. The following rules will help you deal with stress:
● Maintaining a healthy diet, having adequate water and engaging in regular exercise, along with proper rest can help you control stress.
● Including relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing, and massage will help to soothe and calm your stress hormones.
● Adopting a habit of writing journal.
● Adding some leisure time in your daily schedule, making time for music or reading before bed, or watching your preferred television program or film.
● Engaging in conversation with loved ones, and friends. Taking up volunteer work in your society or community.
● Reaching out to a counselor or physician if needed.
● Avoiding unhealthy stress-reduction techniques including abusing drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or overeating.
31, Dec 2024
Overindulgence in food on the occasion of New-Year celebration leads Heart Attack Cases
Mumbai- For a long time, heart attacks and cardiac ailments were believed to affect only ‘seniors’ but in recent times, young people, especially those below the age of 40, are reporting more heart disorders than ever before. The festive season has brought to light shocking instances of young men and women roughly even in their 20s and 30s—suffering from heart attacks in the middle of the celebrations. While playing cricket, celebrating Garba dance, dancing at weddings or family functions and many other occasions many young people suddenly collapse with a heart attack! According to medical research, the incidence of heart attacks spikes during the winter months, particularly around Christmas and New Year. On Holidays routines are disrupted; we may tend to eat and drink more and exercise and relax less. We also may not be listening to our bodies or paying attention to warning signs, thinking it can wait until after the new year. All of these can be contributors to increasing the risk for heart attack at this time of the year,
Giving more information on this Dr. Hemant Khemani, Senior Cardiologist from Apex Group of Hospitals in Borivali says, “While the holidays can be the most wonderful time of the year, they can also be one of the most stressful—especially for the heart. In festivals many people munch fatty & oily (fast food), sweets and higher quantities of alcohol, which can do more damage to your body, especially causing heart problems, also busy holidays can cause you to skip medications, forgetting them when away from home or not carrying them. Excess consumption of salt and alcohol can lead your heart to beat irregularly and cause palpitations, which if ignored can lead to serious heart issues, including heart failure and stroke.”
Dr. Hemant Khemani, Senior Cardiologist from Apex Group of Hospitals further added, Many Festivals celebrated with loud music especially New Year celebration in banquets, party hall, clubs & hotels but When a person who is already facing heart issues and exposed to loud music, his or her heartbeat increases rapidly, just as it goes up while jogging or doing physical exercises. An irregular heartbeat is called atrial fibrillation (AFib) and due to this, there are dangers like heart attack, brain stroke and blood clots. Scientists believe that any activity that increases blood pressure can trigger fibrillation and the same happens with loud noises. The longer you are in atrial fibrillation, the more chance there is to form a stroke, or to develop heart weakness or heart failure from having such a rapid heartbeat.
27, Dec 2024
Rising Childhood Obesity: Urgent Action Needed!
By: Dr Mounica Reddy Mandadi, Consultant Pediatric Endocrinologist, Ankura Hospital for Women and Children
Do you find it difficult to control your children from consuming junk food, sugary delicacies etc compared to healthy home cooked meals? It’s quite common to witness children who frequently prefer consuming packaged, unhealthy and oily food rather than eating healthy meals. Apart from that, nowadays, majority of children are constantly working in a high stress related environment (academics) and addicted to electronic gadgets without any physical activities thereby developing obesity at younger ages. Despite awareness generated by educational institutions and healthcare experts, doctors etc, we are unable to reduce the obesity rates in children especially in urban areas in Telangana. Children who developed obesity at younger ages are prone to other critical diseases like Diabetes , Cardiovascular diseases, Gestational ailments, PCOD , hormonal imbalances and many more.
As per the latest news reports, the Centre’s Economic Survey 2023-24 — identified Telangana as one of the few states where its people suffer from severe overweight and podgy issues. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) reveals an increase in obesity rates in Telangana, with the proportion of overweight women and men rising to 30.1 percent and 32.3 percent respectively. A study published in the Lancet stated that about 12.5 million children – 7.3 million boys and 5.2 million girls in the country aged between 5 and 19 were grossly overweight in 2022, up from 0.4 million in 1990. Additionally, a comparative study done by Prashant Kokiwar, Sushma Narsing Katkuri on the prevalence of obesity and its correlates among government and private school children in Hyderabad stated that obesity was found in 21.09 percent among private school children and 19 percent in government school children.
Before we delve into the precautions for tackling obesity in children, let’s discuss obesity, causes and symptoms. Obesity occurs when there is an imbalance between calories consumed and calories burned, leading to excessive fat accumulation.
The causes of Obesity are –
Lifestyle Choices
• High-calorie diets laden with sugary treats, junk food, and baked goods.
• Sedentary activities such as excessive screen time and minimal physical exercise.
Family and Environmental Influences
• Genetic predisposition to obesity, particularly in families with unhealthy eating habits.
• Lack of access to nutritious food in low-income neighbourhoods.
Psychological and Socioeconomic Factors
• Stress from academics and personal issues.
• Overeating as a coping mechanism for emotional challenges.
Medical and Pharmaceutical Causes• Certain medications can lead to weight gain.
Symptoms
Not all children with a higher weight are obese. Body composition and developmental stages differ, making a comprehensive evaluation essential. Body Mass Index (BMI) and growth charts are primary tools used by healthcare providers to assess a child’s weight-related health risks. The common symptoms of children who developed obesity are
1. Physical Symptoms
o Excessive weight gain relative to height and age.
o Increased body fat visible in the arms, abdomen, and thighs.
o Difficulty in participating in physical activities due to fatigue or breathlessness.
o Development of stretch marks on the skin.
2. Behavioural and Health Indicators
o Complaints of joint pain or musculoskeletal discomfort.
o Increased sweating without much physical exertion.
o Signs of low self-esteem, including reluctance to participate in social or school activities.
3. Health Risks
o Elevated Body Mass Index (BMI) beyond age-appropriate levels.
o Indicators of related health issues, such as high blood pressure, pre-diabetes, or abnormal lipid levels.
To combat this escalating childhood obesity, the precautionary measures are
1. Balanced and Nutritious Diet
o Replace junk food, sugary beverages, and fried snacks with fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
o Practice portion control and avoid overfeeding.
o Reduce consumption of high-calorie, low-nutrient foods such as chips, candies, and processed items.
2. Encourage Regular Physical Activity
o Ensure at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise daily (e.g., cycling, swimming, or playing outdoor sports).
o Limit sedentary behaviours like TV watching and screen time to less than 2 hours a day.
o Make physical activity fun by involving the entire family in activities like hiking or dancing.
3. Promote Healthy Habits at Home
o Encourage family meals to foster healthy eating patterns and reduce mindless snacking.
o Educate children on making informed food choices, like reading nutrition labels.
4. Manage Academic and Emotional Stress
o Help children balance academics and extracurricular, allowing time for relaxation.
o Teach stress-management techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises.
5. Create a Supportive Environment
o Avoid using food as a reward or punishment to develop a healthy relationship with eating.
o Provide access to safe outdoor spaces for play and exercise.
o Involve schools in promoting physical education programs and offering nutritious meals.
6. Regular Medical Check-Ups
o Monitor growth and BMI during routine health visits.
o Seek guidance from pediatricians or dietitians if your child is overweight or obese.
By integrating these preventive measures into daily life, parents and caregivers can significantly reduce the risk of obesity and its associated health problems in children.
27, Dec 2024
Intuitive Brings Global Experts to India for Robotic Surgery Training
Mumbai, 27 December, 2024: Intuitive, a global leader in minimally invasive care and the pioneer in robotic-assisted surgery (RAS), brought together a team of global experts led by Dr. Rockson Liu, MD, FACS General Surgeon, to train Indian general surgeons in advanced robotic surgery techniques. This initiative aimed to equip surgeons with hands-on experience using the state-of-the-art da Vinci system, fostering innovation in procedures such as hernia repairs and cholecystectomies.
The roadshow spanned key cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi, featuring intensive training sessions, live demonstrations, and mentorship opportunities for over 170 surgeons and healthcare executives from key hospitals like St John’s Hospital, Hiranandani Hospital, Gleneagles Hospital, Yashoda Hospital, Max Hospitals and Manipal Hospitals. Highlights of the programme included hands-on training with the da Vinci Xi system at cadaver labs, proctor events, and insightful discussions with eminent surgeons.
While talking about this training programme, Dr. Rockson Liu, MD, FACS General Surgeon, one of the experts who came to India for this purpose, said, “I am glad to engage with the talented surgeons from India, and share my experience with them. I thank Intuitive for bringing me here, and I would be grateful if this roadshow could make a difference to the general surgery ecosystem in India. As a surgeon who has done over 1,250 robotic-assisted general surgeries with da Vinci, I can vouch for the profound benefits of robotic-assisted approach in general surgery, especially in procedures such as hernias and cholecystectomy. The advanced da Vinci system offers enhanced precision, and smaller incisions for general surgery procedures. It helps surgeons minimize tissue damage, and see the anatomy in a better way, which reduces pain and the risk of recurrence in case of hernia surgeries as we are able to offer better techniques for these procedures. This modality can also enhance the recovery times for patients.
By understanding these benefits, the majority of surgeons in the USA have moved to robotic approach in general benign surgery. I am sure that this roadshow will help us train more surgeons in India on the innovative techniques of robotic hernia surgery and the safer approaches to cholecystectomies., which will eventually lead to better patient outcomes.”
The da Vinci system includes a magnified 3D high-definition vision and tiny wristed instruments that bend and rotate much more than the human hand. As a result, surgeons have better vision, precision, and control. Benign general surgery with the da Vinci system is supported by more than 800 peer-reviewed publications, with studies also showing that robotic-assisted patients returned to normal activities faster than open repair patients.
Dr. Jignesh Gandhi, Professor of Surgery, KEM Hospital & Robotic and GI Surgeon, Gleneagles Hospital, Mumbai, said, “I want to express my gratitude to Dr. Rockson Liu and Intuitive for bringing this invaluable training program to India, providing hands-on experience in advanced robotic-assisted surgery techniques to general surgeons with across the country. The opportunity to pursue cutting-edge technologies like the da Vinci system is transformative for general surgery. This innovation allows surgeons to perform general surgery procedures, such as hernia repair and cholecystectomy, with greater precision, minimal invasiveness, and improved patient outcomes. Programs like these not only enhance the skills of surgeons but also elevate the entire field of general surgery, paving the way for safer and more efficient care for patients.”
Recent estimates suggest that 3,646 surgeries are carried out per 100,000 Indian population every year, out of which 26% is attributed to general surgery procedures like hernia repair and cholecystectomy. Innovative, cutting-edge solutions like the da Vinci can help address the growing demand for precision and efficiency in general surgery, while reducing the burden on healthcare systems.
16, Dec 2024
Happiest Health Empowers Families to Balance Tech and Togetherness at Get Set, Grow Summit 2024
Bengaluru, Saturday 16th December 2024: Happiest Health hosted the second edition of Get Set, Grow Summit 2024 with a special theme on ‘Digital Detox’ aimed at promoting gadget free moments for children in the age group of 5 to 12 years and drawing attention towards screen free family time to strengthen the bond. The event was packed with interactive workshops, expert talks, educational activities fun filled activities all aimed at helping families learn about nutrition, physical health, and mental wellness in a collaborative and engaging setting.
The Summit focused on ‘Digital Detox Edition’ which highlighted the importance of screen-free family time through interactive and fun sessions for children, providing practical tools to help families navigate the challenges of balancing technology use with quality, tech-free moments. 500 Participants discovered strategies for developing healthier habits, enhancing family bonds, and promoting overall well-being through series of engaging sessions tailored for kids.
Unveiling the second edition Get Set Grow, Mr Anindya Chowdhury, CEO of Happiest Health – Knowledge and Diagnostics “This summit has been a wonderful initiative to remind families of the joy and importance of being present for each other without digital distractions. Events like this not only foster stronger family connections but also equip us with valuable tools to prioritize health and well-being in an increasingly digital age. I hope this inspires many more families to take small, meaningful steps towards a balanced lifestyle. In today’s fast-paced world, it is crucial to carve out moments of togetherness that strengthen bonds and enrich lives. This summit has highlighted how simple, mindful changes can make a profound difference in creating harmony within families, encouraging us all to rethink our daily choices and commitments.”
Panel Discussion on “Digital Detox: Challenges and Way Forward -Featuring doctors and other experts with insightful discussions on limiting screen time & promoting family bonding was conducted.
Dr Santosh Kumar, Senior Consultant and Lead – Paediatrician & Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Bengaluru, said “ In the digital age, fostering strong parent-child communication is vital to counteract the effects of excessive screen time. Gadgets reduce children’s ability to read non-verbal cues, empathize, and engage in imaginative play—essential social and emotional development skills. Parents should model healthy behavior by setting aside devices and creating an environment rich in meaningful interactions. Activities like storytelling, arts, or family discussions build emotional resilience and motivation. Importantly, children imitate adults, so demonstrating balance and moderation is key. Effective communication and positive reinforcement can help children break screen dependency and focus on activities that nurture their well-being.”
Dr Arvind Shenoi-Clinical Director- Neonatology and Paediatric, Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Bengaluru,“Today’s children are navigating three distinct worlds—the real, the dream, and the virtual. The cyber world, while offering opportunities, also disrupts critical areas of life by stealing time from real-world experiences and much-needed sleep. This imbalance leads to physical and emotional challenges, including sleep disturbances, obesity, and reduced parental authority. Parents must actively regulate screen time, ensuring children do not lose sight of essential real-world interactions. By fostering meaningful relationships and encouraging play outside the digital realm, parents can help their children grow into emotionally and physically healthier individuals in this tech-driven age.”
Dr Sowmya R, Senior Consultant, Department of Paediatric Ophthalmology, Strabismus & Neuro-ophthalmology at Sankara Eye Hospital, Bengaluru, “Prolonged screen exposure in children, especially under the age of three, poses serious risks to their eye health, including increased chances of developing myopia, accommodative issues, and eye strain. It’s critical to ensure a balanced approach by limiting screen time and encouraging activities that stimulate natural vision development, such as outdoor play. Early signs like squinting, headaches, or difficulty focusing should not be ignored. Parents must be vigilant about creating healthy screen habits and seeking timely medical advice to prevent long-term complications. Protecting your child’s eyes today will pave the way for a healthier, clearer vision tomorrow.”
4, Dec 2024
Advanced Cardiac Rehabilitation Services Now Available at Aster CMI Hospital
Bangalore, December 04th, 2024: Aster CMI Hospital has announced the launch of its comprehensive Cardiac Rehabilitation program, which includes Preventive Cardiology and Rehabilitation services, aimed at enhancing heart health and preventing future cardiovascular issues. This holistic program is designed for individuals at risk of heart disease and those recovering from heart events, such as heart attacks, stent placements, and surgeries.
Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR) is a vital component of heart recovery, helping patients rebuild their cardiovascular function, adopt heart-healthy habits, and reduce the likelihood of future cardiac events. The program takes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating cardiologists, physiotherapists, dietitians, and psychologists to provide personalized care and support.
A standout feature of the program is the incorporation of advanced AI-powered monitoring systems, which track patient progress in real-time, allowing for personalized exercise plans and timely adjustments based on individual needs. The rehabilitation services also offer emotional and educational support to both patients and their families, ensuring a well-rounded approach to recovery and prevention.
Dr. Nagamalesh UM, Lead Consultant and Interventional Cardiologist at Aster CMI Hospital, commented: “Heart health is fundamental to overall well-being, and our specialized programs are designed to empower individuals with the tools they need to lead healthier lives.”
Dr. Azad Moopen, Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, added: “We are excited to introduce the Preventive Cardiology and Cardiac Rehabilitation services at Aster CMI Hospital. This initiative reflects our commitment to enhancing patient outcomes through early intervention and holistic care. By combining advanced medical technology with personalized attention, we aim to redefine cardiac recovery and prevention.”
SGS Lakshmanan, COO of Aster CMI Hospital, also remarked: “With advanced medical expertise and state-of-the-art facilities, this initiative focuses on reducing the incidence of heart disease while improving our patients’ quality of life.”
This new program is in line with Aster CMI Hospital’s mission to leverage cutting-edge medical technology and expertise to set new standards in patient care, reinforcing its commitment to improving heart health across the community
3, Dec 2024
MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts Appoints Mr. Shubhamoy Banerjee as General Manager at MAYFAIR Lagoon and Convention, Bhubaneswar
MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Shubhamoy Banerjee as the General Manager of MAYFAIR Lagoon and MAYFAIR Convention, Bhubaneswar. Mr. Banerjee brings with him over 23 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, demonstrating exceptional leadership and operational expertise.
Throughout his illustrious career, Mr. Banerjee has held prominent positions in esteemed organizations such as ITC Sonar, Taj Mahal Palace, MSC Cruises, and most recently, The Orchid Hotel in Mumbai. At The Orchid, he spearheaded operational improvements, enhanced guest satisfaction, and elevated the hotel’s status as a top destination in Mumbai’s competitive hospitality landscape.
A Post Graduate Diploma holder in Hotel Management from the prestigious Institute of Hotel Management, Kolkata, Mr. Banerjee’s career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence in guest service and operational efficiency. His broad expertise in managing luxury properties and driving performance aligns seamlessly with MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts’ vision to deliver superior and distinctive guest experiences.
As General Manager of both MAYFAIR Lagoon and MAYFAIR Convention, Mr. Banerjee is set to further enhance the reputation of these iconic properties as premier hospitality destinations in Bhubaneswar. His diverse background in national and international hospitality markets ensures that MAYFAIR Lagoon and MAYFAIR Convention will continue to set benchmarks in luxury, innovation, and guest satisfaction.
Under his dynamic leadership, MAYFAIR Lagoon and MAYFAIR Convention are poised to excel, offering unparalleled service and elevating their positions as leading hospitality destinations in Bhubaneswar.
16, Nov 2024
From Diagnosis to Empowerment: Navigating the Epilepsy Journey
By – Dr. Ravi Kumar CP, Consultant – Pediatric Neurology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders affecting approximately 1 in 100 people in India. Characterized by recurrent seizures, which result from abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can vary in type and severity, and their unpredictability can significantly impact the daily life and well-being of those affected. Despite its prevalence, epilepsy remains underdiagnosed and misunderstood in many parts of the world. Through increased awareness, appropriate treatment, and lifestyle changes, individuals with epilepsy can lead fulfilling lives.
Symptoms
The hallmark symptom of epilepsy is seizures, but their nature can vary greatly.
• Focal Seizures: These originate in one area of the brain. They can be further divided into simple partial seizures (where consciousness is preserved) and complex partial seizures (where consciousness is impaired). Symptoms may include unusual sensations, changes in perception, or involuntary movements.
• Generalized Seizures: These involve both sides of the brain. The most common type of generalized seizure is the tonic-clonic seizure (formerly known as grand mal), which involves loss of consciousness, muscle rigidity, and rhythmic jerking movements. Other generalized seizures include absence seizures (brief lapses in consciousness), atonic seizures (sudden loss of muscle strength), and myoclonic seizures (sudden, brief jerks of the body).
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of epilepsy typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and specialized tests. The most common diagnostic tool is an electroencephalogram (EEG), which measures the brain’s electrical activity. The EEG can detect abnormal patterns that indicate epilepsy, especially during or after a seizure. Additional tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans, may be conducted to rule out structural abnormalities in the brain or other underlying conditions that could contribute to seizure activity.
In some cases, blood tests may be performed to check for metabolic or genetic factors, infections, or other medical conditions that could trigger seizures. A detailed assessment by a neurologist is critical to differentiate epilepsy from other conditions that may mimic seizure-like symptoms.
Management & Prevention
In recent years, dietary strategies have emerged as a conventional treatment, particularly for individuals whose seizures are difficult to control with medication. The two most commonly studied dietary approaches are the ketogenic diet and the low glycemic index treatment.
Ketogenic Diet: The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that has been shown to reduce seizures in some people with epilepsy. On a ketogenic diet, the majority of your calories come from fats (about 70-80%), with a moderate amount of protein (around 20-25%), and very few carbohydrates (only about 5-10%).
• Fats: This includes foods like meat, fish, butter, oils, avocados, and nuts.
• Proteins: Foods like eggs, cheese, and meats like chicken, beef, and fish are common.
• Carbohydrates: You avoid or eat very small amounts of high-carb foods like bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, sugary snacks, and most fruits.
Low Glycemic Index Diet: The Low Glycemic Index (GI) Diet is an eating plan that focuses on choosing foods that cause a slower rise in blood sugar levels. The idea is to eat foods that are digested more slowly, helping to keep blood sugar levels steady rather than causing sharp spikes and crashes.
• High-GI foods (like white bread, sugary snacks, and sodas) cause a quick spike in blood sugar because they break down quickly into sugar.
• Low-GI foods (like whole grains, legumes, and most vegetables) break down more slowly and lead to a gradual rise in blood sugar.
Treatment
Epilepsy treatment focuses on controlling seizures and improving the quality of life for the patient. The approach typically involves a combination of medication, lifestyle adjustments, and in some cases, surgical intervention.
• Medications: Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are the most common treatment for epilepsy. These medications help to regulate the brain’s electrical activity and prevent seizures. It may take time to find the right medication and dosage for each individual, and some patients may experience side effects that require adjustments to their treatment plan.
• Surgery: For patients who do not respond to medications, surgical options may be considered. Surgery involves removing the part of the brain responsible for seizure activity. In some cases, a procedure called vagus nerve stimulation or deep brain stimulation may be used to help control seizures.
Despite the significant advances in understanding and treating epilepsy, there remains a widespread lack of awareness about the condition. Raising awareness is crucial to improving the lives of people and by enhancing access to effective treatments.
A multi-faceted plan of action should also include better integration of dietary therapies, holistic approaches, and individualized care to address the diverse needs of individuals living with epilepsy. By fostering a deeper understanding of epilepsy and promoting timely intervention, we can ensure that those affected by this disorder lead healthier, more empowered lives.
6, Oct 2024
Quambiant Global Grace Cancer Run 2024: 20,000 Participants in Gachibowli, Hyderabad
Hyderabad, October 06, 2024…… Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, Minister for Roads, Buildings and Cinematography, Government of Telangana grace as chief guest at the prizes presentation ceremony at Quambiant Global Grace Cancer Run 2024.
Earlier Ms Jennifer Larson, Consular General US Consulate, Hyd; Sri VC. Sajjanar, IPS, MD TSRTC and Dr. Bart S. Fisher, IPS, Chairman, Give Life Foundation flagged off three different categories of runs—10K, 5K and 2K. A total of 20,000 people participated in the run.
Komatireddy Venkat Reddy along with other guests gave away prizes to the winners of “Quambiant Global Grace Cancer Run-2024”.
In the men’s 10K category, Mohit Chowdary stood first completing the 10K run in 33.22 minutes and earning Rs 12,500/- prize money. Bodupally Ramesh stood second by completing the run in 34.15 minutes and was awarded Rs 7500/- prize money and Ramesh Chandra came third by completing the run in 34.15 minutes and bagged Rs 5000/- prize money.
In the Women 10K run category Uma completed it in 40.41 minutes, Maheshwari in 42.45 minutes and Rajeshwari in 43.58 minutes and stood first, second and third and walked away with the prize money of Rs 12,500/-, 7,500/- and 5000/- respectively.
Speaking on the occasion the Minister appreciated the Grace Cancer Foundation and Dr Chinnababu for helping the poor by screening free of cost for cancer at their doorstep. It is a yeoman service. I am pleased to note that 20,000 have participated in the Hyderabad event, which may be the biggest in India as far as Cancer Awareness Runs are concerned. Also, I am happy to note that it is the world’s biggest cancer awareness run which is being organised in dual mode—both physical and virtual across 130 countries and well over one lakh participate in it.
Hyderabad is a health capital. 40 to 50% of drugs supplied to various countries are manufactured here. It is a Vaccine capital and health tourism hub. An event like this happening in such a happening city is praiseworthy. Early detection is the key to cancer treatment. We can save lives if diagnosed in the first or second stage. But, it will be difficult to save if diagnosed in advanced stages, the Minister said.
Health is wealth. Fitness is important for health. Everyone must take part in sports. Rightly our Chief Minister declared a Sports University in Hyderabad to encourage more and more to get into sports, he said. I am also a fitness freak. I get up at 4 am and run for 10kms every day except on Sundays, he shared and advised all to get fit
The Congress Government initiated the Outer Ring Road in 2024. Now, the same Congress has started a Regional Ring Road, at a project outlay of Rs 30,000 crore. This will put Hyderabad on the world map for its infrastructure. The works of the same will begin in December, he said.
Kiran Tanuja, India’s first blade runner from Faridabad participated in the run. People from various walks of life and ages such as 3 years to 80 years participated in the run. The run was organized to raise funds for free cancer screening. Kiran said anything can happen in life. And don’t stop your efforts. Now with this blade, I run 21 kms. So believe in yourself, she said.
HYSEA, SCSC, CII, LIC and many other organisations supported the run. It was the 7th edition of the run. The run is planned to raise funds to deploy free cancer screening.
The run was organized with the theme “Run for Grace Screen for Life” disclosed by Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli, Senior Consultant Robotic Surgical Oncologist and the Founder of GRACE (Global Research and Cancer Education) Cancer Foundation.
The run was organised by GRACE Cancer Foundation, a Hyderabad-based non-profit organisation founded to alleviate the burden of cancer through education, early detection, treatment, rehabilitation, and cutting-edge research.
The objectives for the Run according to Dr. Chinababu are to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives by creating awareness about Cancer, to promote physical activity as a means to prevent and combat cancer in society and to help people lead active lifestyles and also to raise funds for screening the underprivileged right at their doorstep, for free.
