Category Archives: Health

Paras Health Treats Over 20,000 Cancer Patients in a Year Amid Rising Cancer Burden in India

Paras Health Highlights Rising Cancer Burden in India; Treats Over 20,000 Cancer Patients Across Its Network in a Year

Delhi NCR, Feb 5: In the wake of World Cancer Day, Paras Health released consolidated oncology data revealing that over 20,000 new cancer patients were diagnosed and treated between January 2025 and January 2026 across its hospitals in Delhi NCR, Patna, Panchkula, Kanpur, Udaipur, Srinagar, Ranchi, and Darbhanga. The data underscores the growing cancer burden in India and highlights the urgent need to expand access to specialised, high-quality oncology care beyond metropolitan centres to emerging regions.

Over the past three years, hospitals across the Paras Health network have recorded a steady year-on-year rise in cancer cases, with a sharper increase observed post-2024. While larger centres continue to manage higher patient volumes, hospitals in Tier 2 and Tier 3 locations have also reported consistent growth, driven by improved diagnostic capabilities, stronger referral pathways, and rising public awareness around early cancer detection. Cancer remains most prevalent in the 40–70 year age group, with the average patient age ranging between 50 and 60 years. Clinicians are also increasingly observing cancer diagnoses among younger adults.

In terms of cancer types, breast cancer has emerged as the most commonly treated cancer among women over the past decade, overtaking cervical cancer, while tobacco-related head and neck cancers continue to remain disproportionately high in India, reflecting ongoing public health challenges linked to tobacco consumption.

Commenting on the findings, Dr Dharminder Nagar, Co-Chair, FICCI Health and Services and Managing Director, Paras Health, said,

“The rising number of cancer cases reflects a combination of changing lifestyles and improved detection. While risk factors such as tobacco use, obesity, pollution, and sedentary habits continue to drive cancer incidence, greater awareness and timely diagnosis are enabling cancers to be identified earlier, when treatment outcomes are significantly better. This underscores the importance of preventive screening and early intervention.”

Doctors across the Paras Health network attribute the increase in cancer cases to a range of lifestyle and environmental factors, including tobacco use in smoked and smokeless forms, alcohol consumption, obesity, unhealthy dietary habits, physical inactivity, and exposure to air pollution, chemicals, and pesticides, as well as infections such as HPV and Hepatitis.

Despite persistent misconceptions that cancer is incurable or that diagnostic procedures such as biopsy or surgery cause the disease to spread, medical experts emphasise that many cancers detected at an early stage are highly curable. Advances in cancer care—including targeted therapy, immunotherapy, minimally invasive and robotic surgery, and improved chemotherapy protocols—have significantly enhanced survival outcomes and quality of life.

Paras Health continues to strengthen its multidisciplinary, patient-centric oncology services across its hospitals, reinforcing the critical role of early detection, evidence-based treatment, and sustained public awareness in addressing India’s growing cancer burden.

Arete Hospitals Launches ‘Mindful Milestones’ Cyclothon to Promote Cancer Awareness

Hyderabad, Feb 05: In observance of World Cancer Day, Arete Hospitals officially launched Cyclothon – Edition 1, a cause-led initiative designed to raise awareness about cancer prevention, early detection, and healthy living. All proceeds from the Cyclothon will be directed towards cancer care charity initiatives, supporting awareness, screening, and patient support programs.

The announcement was made at a press conference held today, during which the Cyclothon poster was unveiled, official merchandise was introduced, and participant registrations were formally opened.

The Cyclothon is scheduled to take place on February 22, with a reporting time of 5:00 AM. This will be an annual event going forward. Through this initiative, Arete Hospitals aims to reach and engage with the community beyond the hospital, sparking conversations about cancer awareness in a way that is both approachable and engaging.

Dr. Vijay Karan Reddy, HOD & Senior Consultant – Radiation Oncology and Director of Oncology, Arete Hospitals, said,

“World Cancer Day gives us an opportunity as oncologists to spread awareness on cancer. We at Arete Institute of Oncology embrace this year’s theme, ‘United by Unique’, and acknowledge that every patient’s journey is unique, but we are all united in our fight against cancer. This Cyclothon is a collective movement to place people—and not just cancer—at the centre of cancer treatment.

Our goal is to drive the importance of screening, early detection, timely and appropriate treatment. It’s a statement of our commitment towards making cancer care personalised, compassionate, accessible, and equitable. We also stand in solidarity with cancer survivors and their families, celebrating resilience, strength, and life beyond cancer.”

Dr. Vijender Reddy T, Chairman, Arete Hospitals, highlighted the hospital’s commitment to community-centric healthcare, saying,

“At Arete, we believe healthcare extends beyond treating illness—it also involves educating, engaging, and empowering the community. The Cyclothon reflects this philosophy. By bringing people together for a common cause, we hope to foster a culture where awareness and prevention become part of daily life.”

Ms. Aishwarya Rajesh, Indian Actress and Chief Guest, encouraged citizens to actively participate in the event and support the cause.

“Public participation is key to making awareness initiatives meaningful. Events like this not only promote fitness but also spark important conversations around health. I urge people across the city to take part in the Cyclothon and help spread awareness about cancer prevention and early detection,” she said.

Mr. P. Venkatraman, Race Director for the Cyclothon and Founder of YouTooCanRun, spoke about the transformative power of physical activity.

“Movement is medicine. Regular exercise not only improves physical fitness but plays a critical role in preventing lifestyle-related diseases and supporting long-term health. Arete Hospitals has taken a commendable step by linking physical activity with cancer awareness through this Cyclothon,” he said.

The cycling partners for the event include Hyderabad Cycling Revolution, Happy Hyderabad, and Hyderabad Cyclists Group, with YouTooCanRun as the organising partner, ensuring professional execution and a safe, inclusive experience for all participants.

With Cyclothon – Edition 1, Arete Hospitals reinforces its focus on preventive care, early intervention, and sustained community engagement, laying the foundation for an annual platform that blends health awareness with collective action.

Centre For Sight Expands Bihar Footprint with New Advanced Eye Hospital in Patna

Centre For Sight Strengthens Its Presence in Bihar with the Launch of a New Advanced Eye Hospital at Saguna More, Patna

Patna,  Feb 05: Centre For Sight, India’s one of the most trusted super-specialty eye care networks, has announced the launch of its state-of-the-art eye hospital at Saguna More, Patna, further strengthening its presence in Bihar. With two advanced centres now operational at Kankarbagh and Saguna More, Centre For Sight is fully equipped to serve patients across the entire Patna region, ensuring comprehensive, world-class eye care within the city and eliminating the need to travel elsewhere for specialised treatment.

The new centre was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar Shri Samrat Choudhary, as the Chief Guest. Speaking at the launch, he highlighted the importance of strengthening healthcare infrastructure in rapidly developing urban centres like Patna and emphasised the role of advanced eye care facilities in enabling early diagnosis, timely intervention, and improved long-term visual outcomes for patients.

During the launch, Dr Mahipal Singh Sachdev, Chairman and Medical Director, Centre For Sight Group of Eye Hospitals, said

“Bihar has always placed its trust in Centre For Sight, with patients and leading personalities choosing us for specialised eye care over the years. With the launch of our Saguna More centre alongside our established Kankarbagh facility, we are ensuring that patients no longer need to travel outside the state for world-class eye care. As part of our long-term vision for Bihar, we also plan to further expand our presence, including in cities like Gaya Ji, to make advanced eye care accessible to more communities across the state.”

The Saguna More centre is led by a skilled and experienced clinical team, including Dr. Rajive Kumar, who specialises in cataract, refractive, and corneal services; Dr. Kundan Kumar, an expert in cataract and anterior segment surgeries; and Dr. Richa Ranjan, who brings specialised expertise in vitreo-retinal care. Together, the team ensures comprehensive clinical coverage and continuity of care across all major ophthalmic subspecialties.

The new Saguna More centre has been designed to complement the existing Kankarbagh facility, together ensuring seamless and efficient coverage of Patna’s diverse population. It offers comprehensive eye care services under one roof, supported by cutting-edge technology and a highly experienced team of specialists. Services include advanced cataract surgery using micro-incision phacoemulsification, along with premium intraocular lens options such as Trifocal, Multifocal, Toric, and EDOF IOLs, as well as advanced refractive vision correction procedures, including LASIK. The hospital also provides specialised care for glaucoma, retina and vitreoretinal disorders, corneal conditions including keratoconus, as well as squint and paediatric ophthalmology.

Designed to deliver a seamless patient experience, the hospital features modern consultation rooms, advanced diagnostic systems, and precision surgical suites, ensuring safety, comfort, and clinical excellence at every stage of the patient journey.

The launch marks a significant milestone in Centre For Sight’s journey in Patna, where it has been delivering quality eye care for over six years through its established Kankarbagh centre. For several years, Centre For Sight’s Delhi centres have also been a trusted destination for patients from Bihar, including several prominent personalities, who have consistently chosen the institution for advanced and specialised eye care. The addition of the Saguna More facility reflects the organisation’s continued commitment to bringing that same standard of clinical excellence, expertise, and technology closer to home.

With nearly three decades of experience in eye care, a national network of over 96 centres across 16 states and 36 cities, and a team of more than 350 expert ophthalmologists, Centre For Sight continues to expand its footprint with a strong focus on clinical excellence, accessibility, and ethical, patient-first care. 

Founded by Padma Shri Awardee Dr. Mahipal Singh Sachdev, Centre For has been at the forefront of several landmark innovations in global ophthalmology, including being the first in the world to introduce SILK (Smooth Incision Lenticule Keratomileusis) technology, co-developing SMILE at a global level, and launching Asia’s first SCHWIND AMARIS 1050RS LASIK laser with AI-powered FORESIGHT technology. Treating over 15 lakh patients annually, Centre For Sight continues to set benchmarks in clinical excellence, innovation, and ethical, patient-centric eye care—because when it comes to vision, there should be no compromise.

KIMSHEALTH Opens Developmental Pediatric Clinic at Its Attingal Medical Centre

Dr. M I Sahadulla, Chairman and Managing Director, KIMSHEALTH inaugurating the Developmental Pediatric Clinic, at KIMSHEALTH Medical Centre, Attingal. Dr. Deepa Binod, Consultant, Department of Developmental Pediatrics, KIMSHEALTH; Sudheer Mohammed, Cluster Manager, KIMSHEALTH Medical Centres; Jacob Mathew, DGM Operations, KIMSHEALTH; Jerry Philip, CEO, KIMSHEALTH; Dr. Babu George, Senior Consultant, Department of Developmental Pediatrics, KIMSHEALTH nearby.

Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 5: KIMSHEALTH has opened its Developmental Pediatric Clinic, at KIMSHEALTH Medical Centre, Attingal. The newly launched clinic is dedicated to the assessment and management of developmental, behavioural, and learning concerns in children. Care is delivered through a multidisciplinary, child-centred, and evidence-based approach, ensuring holistic support for children and their families.

The clinic was inaugurated by Dr. M I Sahadulla, Chairman and Managing Director, KIMSHEALTH. In his inaugural address, Dr.Sahadulla said, “In developmental pediatrics, timely identification and intervention can make a lasting difference for the children as well as their families. This department focuses not just treating conditions, but also on understanding each child’s development journey.”

Headed by Dr. Babu George, Senior Consultant, Department of Developmental Pediatrics, KIMSHEALTH, the clinic offers a comprehensive range of services, including Developmental Pediatric Consultation, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Psychological Counselling and Behavioural Therapy, Developmental Therapy, and Academic Support. The clinic will function from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm, Monday to Saturday.

Dr. Babu George, Senior Consultant, Department of Developmental Pediatrics, KIMSHEALTH welcomed the gathering. Dr.Deepa Binod, Consultant, Department of Developmental Pediatrics, KIMSHEALTH, proposed the vote of thanks.

Fortis Shalimar Bagh Lights Up Delhi’s Tallest Tower in Purple for Cancer Awareness

New Delhi, Feb 04: In a powerful message to amplify cancer awareness and highlight the critical importance of early detection, timely treatment and united community action, Fortis Shalimar Bagh in partnership with Prasar Bharti organised a symbolic illumination ceremony of Delhi’s Tallest Tower – The iconic TV Tower in Pitampura (approximately 235 metres tall).  The landmark was illuminated in purple, the global colour symbolising cancer awareness.

The event was inaugurated by Mr. Mahipal Singh Bhanot, Business Head & Operations Lead – NCR Projects, Fortis Healthcare Ltd., Mr. Naveen Sharma, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh, senior dignitaries of Delhi Doordarshan and Fortis Shalimar Bagh Oncologists, reaffirming hope, resilience, and collective commitment in the fight against cancer.

Held under the theme #RoshniUmeedKi, the initiative transformed a prominent city landmark into a beacon of awareness and solidarity with cancer patients and survivors, bringing together healthcare leaders and public institutions in a unified stand against cancer. The purple illumination symbolised courage, hope, and survival, serving as a powerful reminder that cancer can be fought through awareness, early diagnosis, and collective support.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Mahipal Singh Bhanot, Business Head & Operations Lead – NCR Projects, Fortis Healthcare Ltd. said,

“Cancer awareness goes beyond medical treatment -it is about empowering people with the right information at the right time. Through initiatives like these, we are taking the message of early detection and preventive care beyond hospital walls and into the heart of the community. Illuminating an iconic public landmark is a symbolic yet powerful way to remind citizens that cancer can be fought with awareness, timely screenings, and collective support.”

Mr. Naveen Sharma, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh said,

“The illumination ceremony highlighted Fortis Healthcare’s ongoing commitment to community health, preventive care, and public education, while reinforcing the role of collaborative efforts between healthcare providers and national broadcasters in amplifying vital public health messages. With the message “One Tower. One Light. One

Dr. Chiranjeevi Advocates Early Detection and Awareness on International Cancer Day at KIMS Hospitals

Hyderabad, Feb 4: Megastar and Padma Vibhushan awardee Dr. Chiranjeevi emphasized that cancer should not be viewed as a death sentence, highlighting the critical role of early detection in enabling patients to overcome the disease and lead normal lives.

Speaking at the International Cancer Day programme organized by KIMS Hospitals, Secunderabad, Dr. Chiranjeevi stated that cancer is largely linked to lifestyle choices rather than being a curse. Lighting the ceremonial lamp as the chief guest, he urged the public to change the perception that a cancer diagnosis equates to the end of life.

“When we see so many cancer survivors here today, it becomes clear how much effort doctors are putting in to save lives. If cancer is detected early, it can be treated successfully, and patients can return to normal life,” he said. He also expressed concern over the rising incidence of cancer in children, urging people to consult doctors promptly if symptoms appear.

Dr. B. Bhaskar Rao, CMD of KIMS Group of Hospitals, stressed the need to overcome fear and stigma associated with cancer, noting that advanced medical care, including robotic surgeries, is now available in India. “Earlier, patients had to travel abroad for cancer treatment. Today, patients from other countries are coming to India for advanced care,” he said, emphasizing that early diagnosis remains key to successful treatment.

Dr. Madhu Devarasetty, Senior Consultant Surgical Oncologist and Robotic Surgeon, highlighted that cancer is now being diagnosed in younger age groups, including children aged five and ten, due to factors such as genetics, radiation exposure, chemicals, lifestyle habits, and chronic conditions like diabetes. She added that public awareness is crucial, as many patients approach doctors only in advanced stages.

KIMS Hospitals has established a Cancer Fight Support Group to guide patients and families. During the event, cancer survivors shared their experiences, demonstrating that with timely treatment, patients can lead healthy lives and inspire others facing similar challenges.

The programme was attended by Medical Director Dr. Sambit Sahu, Medical Oncologist Dr. Narender Kumar Thota, cancer survivors, patients undergoing treatment, and healthcare professionals.

Industry Leaders Welcome Union Budget 2026 Boost to India’s Biopharma and Healthcare Ecosystem

Mr. Sheetal Arora, Promoter & CEO, Mankind Pharma

“The Union Budget makes a clear and timely choice by placing biopharma at the centre of India’s next manufacturing wave, alongside other frontier sectors. As India’s disease burden shifts towards diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune disorders, and advanced NCD therapies gain wider adoption globally, the focus on biologics and biosimilars is both relevant and necessary. The Bio Pharma Shakti initiative recognises that longevity, quality of life, and affordability will define healthcare outcomes going forward.

The Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, has reinforced the Viksit Bharat vision through a ₹10,000 crore commitment to build a strong domestic biopharma ecosystem, strengthen institutions, upgrade the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization to global standards, and enable faster, predictable approvals. The full BCD exemption on 17 cancer drugs and targeted relief for rare diseases will further improve patient access while supporting innovation in high-need areas.

Over the coming years, the alignment of these reforms with the evolving **European Union–India trade framework will help Indian pharma move from scale to leadership, attract global investment, and strengthen India’s position as a trusted manufacturing and innovation partner in advanced therapies.”

Mr. Sanjiv Navangul, CEO, BSV ( A Mankind Group Company)

“The Union Budget 2026 provides much-deserved momentum for India’s biopharma journey. We welcome the government’s intent to strengthen the biopharma ecosystem, and the Biopharma Shakti initiative is an encouraging step in this direction. The focus on building scale across strategic and frontier sectors creates the right environment for long-term improvements in health outcomes. The initiative recognises the need for innovation and research while creating a conducive ecosystem for good health through knowledge sharing and technology.

Alongside this, the emphasis on driving research by setting up new National Institutes of Pharmaceutical Education and Research will not only build talent but also augment the research capabilities of the country.

Strengthening the regulatory landscape through a robust biopharma-focused network, including enhanced capacity and faster approval timelines, will further support innovation and improve patient access.

Further, the proposed investment of Rs 10,000 crore over five years, along with the emphasis on domestic production, will go a long way in strengthening supply security and reducing dependence on imports. This aligns with the vision of BSV, as we remain committed to making in India for India and the world.

Additionally, the Budget’s proposal to promote India as a global hub for sports goods is also encouraging. Improved access to quality sports equipment can help drive wider participation of women in sports while supporting healthier lifestyles.”

Dr. Ankit Gupta, Managing Director, Park Medi World Limited

“The Union Budget 2026 presents a comprehensive roadmap for strengthening India’s healthcare ecosystem at a time when the country’s disease burden is shifting towards non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune disorders, alongside a rapidly ageing population. The proposed addition of one lakh allied health professionals will help bridge workforce gaps across hospitals, rehabilitation centres, and community-based care settings. This is complemented by plans to train 1.5 lakh caregivers through NSQF-aligned, multi-skilled programmes, strengthening long-term, elderly, and post-acute care services.

The establishment of five regional medical tourism hubs in partnership with the private sector reinforces India’s ambition to emerge as a preferred global healthcare destination. For hospital networks such as Park Hospitals, these initiatives create meaningful opportunities to scale specialised allied services, strengthen geriatric and rehabilitation care, and contribute to medical value tourism aligned with national healthcare priorities.”

Dr. Saloni Wagh and Shivani Wagh Honoured at Hurun India U40 Awards 2025

Supriya Lifescience’s Dr. Saloni Wagh and Shivani Wagh Honoured at Avendus Wealth–Hurun India U40 Awards 2025

New Delhi, Feb 4: Supriya Lifescience Ltd., a leading manufacturer of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), announced that Dr. Saloni Wagh, Managing Director, and Ms. Shivani Wagh, Joint Managing Director, have been honoured at the prestigious Avendus Wealth–Hurun India U40 Awards 2025. The awards ceremony was held at the Four Seasons Hotel, Mumbai, on January 29, 2026.

The Avendus Wealth–Hurun India U40, U35 and U30 Awards recognise India’s most promising young entrepreneurs and next-generation leaders who are building high-impact businesses through ambition, innovation and purpose-driven scale. The platform celebrates individuals who are redefining industries, strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems and enhancing India’s global business standing.

Dr. Saloni Wagh and Shivani Wagh’s leadership has played a pivotal role in Supriya Lifescience’s sustained growth, with a strong focus on business continuity, expansion of global operations and improved access to high-quality healthcare. Under their stewardship, the company has continued to strengthen its commitment to sustainable growth, robust corporate governance and long-term value creation.

Commenting on the recognition, Dr. Saloni Wagh, Managing Director, Supriya Lifescience Ltd., said,

“Being recognised by the Avendus Wealth–Hurun India platform is a meaningful milestone in our journey. This honour reflects the collective efforts of our teams and our focus on building a globally competitive, innovation-led pharmaceutical business from India. It reinforces the importance of responsible leadership and long-term value creation.”

Sharing her thoughts, Shivani Wagh, Joint Managing Director, Supriya Lifescience Ltd., added,

“It is encouraging to be part of a platform that celebrates ambition, impact and purpose-driven scale. Indian entrepreneurs today are building faster and bolder businesses, and this recognition further strengthens our commitment to operational excellence, sustainability and expanding access to healthcare worldwide.”

This recognition adds to a growing list of accolades received by Dr. Saloni Wagh and Shivani Wagh for their leadership in the pharmaceutical sector. In 2025, both leaders were featured in the Candere Hurun India – The Moment of Lift Awards for their contributions to the industry. Under their continued leadership, Supriya Lifescience has strengthened its global footprint and reinforced its position as a trusted API partner worldwide.

SRV Agadi Hospital organises a Community Awareness March to observe World Cancer Day 2026

Bengaluru, Feb 04: Marking World Cancer Day, SRV Agadi Hospital, a leading multispeciality tertiary care hospital located in Wilson Garden, organised a cancer awareness march on Tuesday to promote early detection, prevention, and timely access to cancer care. The initiative brought together students, healthcare professionals, and community members in a public show of solidarity for patients and survivors.

The march was flagged off by Dr. Niti Raizada, Senior Director – Medical Oncology & Haemato-Oncology; Dr. S. Krishnamurthy, Senior Consultant – Surgical Oncology; Dr. Anju Agadi of SRV Agadi Hospital, Bengaluru; and Shri Umar Ismail Khan, Chairman, Al-Ameen College of Management Studies.

The event, held ahead of World Cancer Day, witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, healthcare professionals, volunteers, and local residents. The march began at Al-Ameen Institute of Management Studies on Hosur Road and culminated at SRV Agadi Hospital in Wilson Garden. Participants wore symbolic masks and held awareness placards, creating a striking visual that reinforced the message that while cancer journeys differ, collective support and informed conversations can make a meaningful difference.

Doctors from SRV Agadi Hospital actively engaged with the public throughout the event, offering insights on cancer prevention, screening guidelines, and early symptom recognition. They also interacted one-on-one with participants, addressing common concerns such as screening age, lifestyle risks, vaccination where applicable, and when to consult a specialist.

World Cancer Day, instituted by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) in support of the World Cancer Declaration, is observed annually on February 4 to raise awareness about cancer and encourage its prevention, early detection, and treatment, with the primary goal of reducing cancer-related deaths and illness worldwide.

World Cancer Day serves as a unifying global initiative in the fight against cancer. Under the 2026 campaign theme, ‘United by Unique’, the movement aims to save millions of preventable deaths each year by promoting awareness, education, and action among governments, healthcare systems, and individuals.

“Cancers detected at an early stage have significantly better outcomes,” said Dr. Abhay Vispute, Founder-Director, SRV Hospitals. “Yet in India, late presentation remains a major challenge. Healthcare institutions must stand visibly for awareness as much as they stand for treatment. Through initiatives like this march, we are bridging the gap between awareness and actionable health behaviour—especially among young adults and families. Educating communities on subtle early signs and available screening options is critical to improving survival rates.”

SRV Hospitals is fully equipped with state-of-the-art medical infrastructure and experienced consultants across multiple specialties. The hospital offers comprehensive care under one roof, including advanced operation theatres and cath labs, a robust emergency and accident unit, expansive OPD and diagnostic services, a 24×7 pharmacy, and in-house pathology services.

United by Unique: A Call for Awareness and Early Action This World Cancer Day 2026

“Cancer care today is deeply personalised two patients with the same diagnosis may need very different treatments based on tumour biology and individual circumstances. ‘United by Unique’ reminds us that while every journey is different, compassion, early detection and multidisciplinary care can dramatically improve outcomes. Listening to your body and seeking timely medical advice can save lives.”