Category Archives: Health

Techno India DAMA Hospital Successfully Treats Rare Pancreatic Tumor in Young Bangladeshi National

Kolkata, 5th May, 2025: A young 18-year-old girl from Bangladesh, Mehroon got affected with a risky and never seen before, large tumor in her pancreas. After the preliminary diagnosis of the state of the tumor the Doctors marked the infection as Solid Pseudopapillary Epithelial Neoplasia (SPEN) which has been occupying her almost entire pancreas. Initially she applied for an Indian Medical Visa. But her appeal got rejected every time due to the cross border turbulent phases. In the meantime, she visited many other countries and consulted renowned Cancer Specialists. According to their suggestions, without the removal of her organs, a successful operation of this specific tumor was not possible.

Mehroon was not ready to undergo the removal of her multiple organs as this might affect her physically in the future. She contacted Dr Suddhaswatta Sen, Senior Consultant, GI-HPB Colorectal and Cancer Surgery, Techno India DAMA Hospital. Her clearance of the Medical permit took nearly 8 months which was quite a lengthy duration leading to the aggravation of the tumor in her pancreas. The size of the infection increased to 15/10 cm, thus appearing to be heavy and risky. Techno India DAMA Hospital, took all the imperative measures and stood beside Mehroon from getting the clearance of her Medical Visa to her admission at the hospital for the treatment.

“The Solid Pseudopapillary Epithelial Neoplasia (SPEN) is a very uncommon disease. One in a crore usually suffers from this particular ailment. In the case of Mehroon, the size of the tumor was big, spreading across her head, neck and body. The life risk was high, but she successfully survived after the operation. Despite the high political tension across the two Nations, the citizens of Bangladesh are still hopeful of the healthcare facilities available in India. We treat patients without any discrimination,” said Dr Suddhasattwa Sen, Sr Consultant Chief GI HPB Colorectal and Oncosurgery, Techno India DAMA Hospital.

Dr Sen and his team did the surgery, Spleen and organ Preserving Surgery, without much blood loss, no blood transfusion, her other organs remained intact and the chances of shifting her to the ICU was zero. The experts team successfully removed the tumor from her body. The patient is currently under observation and is responding to the treatment.

Dr. Shubham Vatsya Saves 77-Year-Old Man After Swallowing Keychain

New Delhi, May 03,2025 : One of the rarest of the rare cases of a foreign body ingestion came to Dr. Shubham Vatsya. A 77 year old man accidently ingested a key with a full keychain, probably due to dementia. The observation was difficulty in swallowing food and even water, and even finding hard to breathe. A swift X-ray by the attending general physician revealed a metallic foreign object lodged in the upper esophagus — shockingly, it was a key attached to a full keychain.

The patient was immediately referred to Dr. Shubham Vatsya, a renowned gastroenterologist, who acted without delay. An emergency endoscopy was performed, and the object was safely removed in under a minute.

“Such cases in elderly patients with cognitive decline are extremely rare, and the risks can escalate very quickly,” said Dr. Shubham. “Fortunately, the quick diagnosis and immediate referral made all the difference.” He further adds that solving such a case only becomes possible with expertise of the gastroenterologist to perform endoscopic foreign body removal. This case was solved in less than one minute by the specialised gastroenterologist with assistance of expert endoscopy technicians.

Within just 15 minutes of the procedure, the patient’s swallowing and breathing returned to normal. The case highlights the critical importance of early intervention and the role of multidisciplinary collaboration between general physicians and specialists.

This entire incident is a demonder that though uncommon observation, ingestion of a foreign body in the elderly can be fatal and rapid response is crucial.

Who’s Steering Indian Health Policy COP11 Highlights Foreign Influence

As India prepares for the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) COP11, concerns over foreign influence in health policymaking are gaining prominence. Growing apprehension surrounds the FCTC process, which many believe is increasingly shaped not by science but by a few powerful international NGOs, often backed by private philanthropic funding. While India has consistently asserted its right to localize global frameworks across sectors, the issue becomes particularly stark in the case of tobacco regulation. India faces one of the most severe tobacco burdens globally, with over 300 million users and more than 1.35 million annual deaths attributable to tobacco-related illness. The urgency to act is clear — but so is the need for regulation that reflects Indian consumption patterns, socio-economic realities, and public health infrastructure.

Commenting on the issue, Jeffrey Smith, Resident Senior Fellow at Integrated Harm Reduction, stated, “The only known fact is that the existing tobacco policies fall far short of meeting the goal of cessation. Without novel policies that provide options for those who use tobacco products to switch, it is unlikely that India will reduce the health consequences of tobacco use at the population level.”

Instead, global policy frameworks have often pushed for blanket prohibitionist measures — including on emerging alternatives that help fight the ill effects of smoking or chewing tobacco— while failing to adequately address the more harmful forms of tobacco, such as bidis and smokeless tobacco. The result is a regulatory approach that appears inconsistent with risk profiles and ground realities. Around the world, countries are re-evaluating such frameworks. Sweden, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the UAE, among others, are exploring more flexible regulatory models — focused on mitigating harm through innovation, consumer awareness, and better enforcement. 

A Wake-Up Call: Cancer’s Rising Impact on the Under-40 Generation

Dr Raghav Kesri, Senior Consultant and Head of Department, Medical Oncology, Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida

Cancer is no longer a disease confined to older adults. In recent years, India has seen a concerning rise in cancer cases among individuals under the age of 40. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), cancers among the youth, particularly breast, colorectal, blood, and thyroid cancers have seen a significant spike, especially in urban areas like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai. This shift in demographics is a wake-up call for early detection, timely intervention, and lifestyle awareness.

Young Adults and Unexpected Cancer Diagnoses

Traditionally, cancer screening programs and public awareness campaigns have focused on middle-aged and older adults. However, doctors across India are now reporting more cases in younger individuals who often present with aggressive forms of the disease. Breast cancer is being diagnosed in women in their 20s and 30s, while young men are increasingly facing colorectal and testicular cancers. Unlike older adults, the disease in younger patients often progresses faster and can go undetected longer due to lack of screening.

Factors such as sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary habits, increased exposure to environmental toxins, obesity, smoking, and delayed medical checkups are contributing to this surge. Additionally, hereditary factors and genetic mutations play a more prominent role, especially in families with a history of cancer.

Why Awareness and Timely Action Matter

One of the biggest challenges in treating cancer among the youth is the delay in diagnosis. Many young people dismiss early warning signs like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, changes in bowel habits, or lumps, assuming they are too young to have cancer. This leads to late-stage detection, when treatment becomes more complex and outcomes less favorable.

Awareness campaigns must now evolve to speak directly to young adults, stressing the importance of not ignoring symptoms and undergoing regular health checkups, especially in high-risk groups.

Rethinking Prevention and Screening

While national cancer screening programs are being expanded, there is an urgent need to tailor these initiatives for younger populations. High-risk individuals, those with family history, lifestyle risks, or early symptoms should be prioritized for screening and early evaluation.

Hospitals and cancer care centers across India are beginning to introduce more youth-focused outreach and genetic counseling, particularly in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, where young-onset cancer incidence is rising rapidly.

The rise of cancer among young Indians is not just a medical concern, it is a social and generational issue. Early detection, timely intervention, and greater awareness can significantly improve outcomes. As India grapples with this evolving challenge, it’s essential to educate, empower, and equip younger generations with the tools to act early. Detection at the right time can save lives, even in the prime of youth.

Significance of Umbilical Cord Healing cannot be understated

Bengaluru, 30 April 2025: The umbilical cord serves as a crucial connection between a mother and her baby during pregnancy, supplying essential nutrients and oxygen. After birth, once the cord is clamped and cut, a small stump remains attached to the newborn’s navel. Proper care of this stump is vital to prevent infection and ensure healthy healing.

Typically, the umbilical cord stump dries out, darkens, and naturally detaches within one to three weeks post-birth. During this period, maintaining cleanliness and dryness is essential to minimize infection risks. Parents and caregivers should vigilantly observe the stump for any signs of complications.

Tips for Proper Umbilical Cord Care

1. Keep It Dry: Ensure the stump remains dry to promote effective healing. Expose the stump to air to help dry out the base. Keep the front of your baby’s diaper folded down, so it doesn’t cover the stump.
2. Opt for Sponge Baths: Until the stump naturally detaches, give your newborn sponge baths instead of full immersions. This approach helps keep the stump dry.
3. Gentle Cleaning: If the stump becomes soiled, clean it with a soft cloth dampened with plain water. Avoid using alcohol or harsh antiseptics unless specifically directed by a pediatrician, as they can delay the healing process.
4. Avoid Interference: Refrain from pulling or tugging at the stump, even if it appears to be loosening. Allow it to detach naturally to prevent injury or infection.
5. Minimize Irritation: Dress your baby in loose-fitting, soft cotton clothing to prevent irritation. Ensure that diapers do not rub against the stump; folding the diaper below the stump can help avoid friction.

Precautions to Prevent Infection

Monitor for Signs of Infection: Be attentive to symptoms such as increased redness, swelling, a foul-smelling discharge, or excessive bleeding around the stump. A fever in your newborn may also signal an infection. If any of these signs are present, contact your pediatrician promptly.
Maintain Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your baby or the umbilical cord area to reduce the risk of introducing harmful bacteria.

Avoid Applying Substances: Do not use powders, oils, or ointments on the stump unless prescribed by a healthcare professional, as they may hinder healing or promote bacterial growth.

Dr. Leenatha Reddy, Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist at Kinder Women’s Hospital, Bangalore emphasizes the importance of proper cord care, “Ensuring proper care of a newborn’s umbilical cord is essential to prevent infections, which are a significant cause of neonatal mortality in our country. Ensuring the cord remains clean and dry until it naturally detaches can greatly reduce the risk of serious complications.”

When to Seek Medical Advice- While slight bleeding when the stump falls off is normal, persistent or heavy bleeding, continuous redness, or pus-like discharge necessitates medical attention. In rare instances, a serious infection called omphalitis can develop, requiring immediate treatment. If the stump hasn’t detached within three weeks or if you observe signs of infection, consult your pediatrician without delay.

Post-detachment, continue to keep the navel area clean and dry. It’s common to notice slight scabbing or minor bleeding, which typically resolves on its own. However, if the area becomes inflamed or discharges fluid, seek medical advice promptly.

Dr Sampath Kumar Shettigar, Senior Consultant, Pediatric & Neonatologist, Kinder Hospitals, Bangalore highlighted the potential complications from inadequate care. “The infected cord and umbilical area can become red and swollen, ooze pus or infection, which may spread to the body through the blood,” he said. “Caring for a newborn’s umbilical cord may seem daunting, but with proper guidance, it becomes a manageable task,” he added.

When uncertain, always consult your healthcare provider for advice, keeping your baby’s health and safety as the foremost priority.

Dr Reddy’s and Sanofi Launch RSV Drug Beyfortus in India

Mumbai, India; April 30, 2025 – On the occasion of World Immunization Week, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. (BSE: 500124, NSE: DRREDDY, NYSE: RDY, NSEIFSC: DRREDDY; hereafter referred to as “Dr. Reddy’s”), a global pharmaceutical company, expands its strategic partnership with Sanofi Healthcare India Private Limited (“SHIPL”) to introduce a novel drug, Beyfortus® (nirsevimab), in India. Beyfortus® contains the monoclonal antibody, nirsevimab, in a prefilled injection used for the prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) in newborns and infants born during or entering their first RSV season. It is also administered in children up to 24 months of age, who remain vulnerable to severe RSV disease through their second RSV season. 

Under the arrangement, Dr. Reddy’s will have exclusive rights from SHIPL to promote and distribute Beyfortus® (nirsevimab) in India. This announcement follows Dr. Reddy’s successful exclusive distribution partnership with Sanofi for their portfolio of vaccines in India last year. Dr. Reddy’s is expected to launch Beyfortus® in India in the second quarter of the current fiscal year. 

RSV is a highly contagious virus that can lead to serious respiratory illness for infants. Two out of three infants are infected with RSV during their first year of life and almost all children are infected by their second birthday. In addition to being the most common cause of LRTD such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants, RSV is also a leading cause of hospitalization in infants worldwide, with most hospitalizations occurring in healthy infants born at term. In 2019, there were approximately 33 million cases of acute lower respiratory infections globally, leading to more than 3 million hospitalizations, and it was estimated that there were 26,300 in-hospital deaths of children younger than 5 years.

Nitya Padmanabhan, Head of Sanofi Vaccines (India) said, “Bringing Beyfortus® to India is a pivotal step in our mission to protect every child from immunization preventable diseases like RSV. In India, where the disease burden is significant and early protection is critical, this collaboration with Dr. Reddy’s enables us to reach parents and healthcare providers with an innovative solution. Together, we are advancing equitable access to immunization and improving preventive care for numerous children in India.”

M.V. Ramana, Chief Executive Officer, Branded Markets (India and Emerging Markets), Dr. Reddy’s, said, “We are happy to extend our partnership with Sanofi in India – this time for a novel drug to address the RSV burden among newborns and infants in India. This partnership highlights our continued efforts to become the ‘partner of choice’ in bringing novel, innovative and trusted drugs to patients. Beyfortus® enables the access of healthcare professionals and parents to an improved drug in the prevention of RSV. Additionally, the launch of Beyfortus® will help us strengthen our immunization portfolio in India.”

Beyfortus® has been approved for use in the European Union, the U.S., China, Japan, and many other countries around the world. In India, Beyfortus® received its marketing authorization approval in June last year from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO).

HPV Vaccine Can Help Eliminate Cervical Cancer Within a Generation, Asserts Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli

Davangere, April 28, 2025 — Grace Cancer Foundation, a Hyderabad-based non-profit organisation committed to alleviating the burden of cancer through education, early detection, treatment, rehabilitation, and research, in collaboration with Maximus India, a Bangalore-based diversified organisation, launched a major initiative aimed at eradicating cancer.

The effort was marked by a free HPV vaccination and cancer screening camp held at Mayur Global School, Davangere, Karnataka.

At the camp, 350 HPV vaccinations were administered and 200 cancer screenings conducted. The HPV vaccine plays a pivotal role in eradicating or significantly reducing HPV-related cancers, particularly cervical cancer. By preventing infections caused by specific HPV types, the vaccine can avert a large proportion of these cancers.

The program underscored the critical importance of collective action in fighting cancer, with influential voices calling for greater community involvement. This collaborative effort between Grace Cancer Foundation and Maximus India stands as a testament to their shared commitment to public health and cancer prevention. The initiative not only raised awareness but also actively engaged the community in safeguarding their health.

In a press note issued today from Hyderabad, Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli, Founder of Grace Cancer Foundation, Senior Robotic Surgical Oncologist, and Clinical Director at Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, made a heartfelt appeal to the public: “Let’s come together to ensure every girl child gets vaccinated,” mphasising the critical role of vaccination in preventing cervical cancer.

P.N. Lokesh, Deputy Commissioner of Davangere, Government of Karnataka, highlighted the vital role of community participation in the success of health campaigns.

Ms. Praveena Bhimavarapu, Senior Vice President and Country Head of Maximus India, stressed the importance of early intervention: “Early intervention is key in the fight against cancer,” noting that timely vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer, one of the most prevalent cancers affecting women globally.

The initiative marks an important step towards the vision of a cancer-free nation, and the collaboration between Grace Cancer Foundation and Maximus India serv.es as a model for future health initiatives.

Add a Splash of Natural Sweetness to Your Summer with Dhampur Green’s Clear Liquid Sugar

As the temperatures rise, nothing beats the comfort of a refreshing homemade drink, and Dhampur Green’s Clear Liquid Sugar is here to make your summer moments even sweeter.

Crafted from pure cane sugar and completely sulphur-free, Dhampur Green’s Clear Liquid Sugar is the perfect solution for easy, natural sweetness. With its crystal-clear appearance and neutral taste, it blends seamlessly into a wide variety of summer beverages – from traditional shikanji and chilled iced teas to modern lemonades, smoothies, mocktails, and more. Unlike regular sugars, it dissolves instantly, leaving no grains behind, making it ideal for both cold and hot preparations.

But the magic of Dhampur Green’s Clear Liquid Sugar doesn’t end with beverages. It’s a secret ingredient for bakers and dessert enthusiasts as well. In fruit cakes, it helps maintain moisture, enhances texture, boosts flavor, and extends the freshness of the product. In ice creams, it lowers the freezing point, prevents the formation of ice crystals, and results in a smoother, creamier scoop — just what you need for a perfect summer treat!

Shrey Gupta, Head of Sales and Operations at Dhampur Green shared, “Summer is a season of vibrant flavors and cooling refreshments, and our Clear Liquid Sugar is designed to enhance these experiences effortlessly. It’s all about making everyday moments a little sweeter, without any fuss or compromise on quality.”

Convenient, versatile, and health-conscious, Dhampur Green’s Clear Liquid Sugar is a must-have for every kitchen, café, and catering setup during the hotter months. Whether you are whipping up a quick glass of nimbu pani at home, preparing large batches of beverages for a party, or adding a finishing touch to desserts, this easy-to-use syrup ensures perfect sweetness every time.

With a legacy of purity and innovation, Dhampur Green continues to inspire kitchens across India. The Clear Liquid Sugar is a reflection of the brand’s commitment to offering natural, clean-label solutions that support healthier, tastier living. This summer, stock your pantry with Dhampur Green’s Clear Liquid Sugar and let every sip and every bite be a little celebration of sweetness, simplicity, and good taste.

Amitabh Kant Declares ‘India’s Health Decade’ at World Health Summit 2025

New Delhi, 28 April, 2025: The World Health Summit (WHS)’s Regional Meeting 2025 opened at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi – marking the first time this global platform is being hosted in India. Organised by the National Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS) as a member of the WHS Academic Alliance in collaboration with Ashoka University and Manipal Academy of Higher Education, the summit has drawn a record-breaking registration of over 4,500 participants from over 54 countries, including more than 1,000 leading health experts, scientists, ministers, and policymakers. Under the overarching theme “Scaling Access to Ensure Health Equity”, the event aims to explore innovative, inclusive, and sustainable pathways to achieving health for all.

The inaugural day was marked by the presence of distinguished dignitaries from government and industry. Notable attendees included Shri Mansukh L. Mandaviya, Union Minister for Labour, Employment, Youth Affairs and Sports; Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, Minister of Law and Justice of India, Shri Anurag Thakur, Member of Lok Sabha and Shri Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa. The event also welcomed senior leaders from globally renowned institutions such as NITI Aayog, WHO, UNICEF, and UNDP – reflecting the summit’s international significance and spirit of collaboration.

Inaugurating the World Health Summit, Anurag Thakur, Member of the Lok Sabha and Former Minister of Sports, Youth Affairs and Minister of Information and Broadcasting, said, “It is an honour to host the Summit on Indian soil for the first time. In a world where quality healthcare often remains a privilege, our gathering in New Delhi is a call to action. India, with over 1.43 billion people, has made bold strides to democratise healthcare – moving from selective interventions to a citizen-centric model rooted in financial protection and primary care. As we aim to become a developed nation by 2047, healthcare will remain central to our journey.”

Sharing his experiences and learnings, Minister of Labour and Employment and Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports and Former Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Shri Mansukh Mandaviya said, “For the world, health may be commerce, but for India, it is service – and service is our sanskaar. During COVID, our healthcare workers embodied this spirit. To make health accessible, we must make it affordable – and that begins by treating it as a service, not a business. When service, not profit, drives healthcare, it reaches the last mile.”

 Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa and Former CEO, Niti Aayog, said, “India will grow from a $4 trillion to a $30 trillion economy by 2047, driven by human development and better quality of life – with health at its core. This is not just India’s digital decade; it’s India’s health decade. We are ready to co-lead and build an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient health-tech ecosystem.”             

 The first two days of the summit featured 9 keynote speeches, 80 panel discussions, 12 side meetings and 4 workshops – all addressing different themes and topics related to improving healthcare access, policy initiatives and building new health-tech solutions. Key panel discussions focused on strengthening primary healthcare delivery in South Asia, reimagining health systems for resilience and inclusivity, and exploring innovations in digital health to bridge the urban-rural access divide. Additional sessions delved into health financing models, data governance for public health accountability, and improving overall healthcare quality through digital technologies and AI.

Being one of the biggest health summits globally, the event also welcomed thought leaders from across the globe. Distinguished speakers included Former Prime Minister of New Zealand Helen Clark, Dr. Vinod Paul, Member, NITI Aayog; Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, Chairperson, M S Swaminathan Research Foundation; Rajiv Raghuvanshi, Drugs Controller General of India; Ms. Cynthia McCaffrey, Representative, UNICEF India, Indu Bhushan, Former CEO, Ayushman Bharat and President-iLEAP, Pahle India Foundation, amongst others.

Dr Anurag Agrawal, Dean of BioSciences and Health Research at the Trivedi School of Biosciences and Head of Koita Center for Digital Health at Ashoka, who also moderated the panel discussion titled ‘Digital Health Accreditation for Advancing Quality, Standardization, and Excellence: Best Practices from India,’ said, “The Summit is being hosted at India at a crucial moment when digital health and next-gen technologies like AI are playing a pivotal role in enhancing last-mile delivery of health services. However, significant gaps still persist in India and across South Asia. The discussions at WHS will provide a critical opportunity to address these gaps, foster collaboration, and identify scalable solutions to improve health outcomes for all.”

 Ashoka University played an active role in several sessions on the first two days. Faculty from its Trivedi School of Bioscience and Koita Centre For Digital Health led an impactful panel on Digital Health and Scaling Access to AI-Powered Diagnostics, highlighting the role of academic research in shaping pragmatic, evidence-based health solutions. The University also engaged students and early-career researchers as volunteers and rapporteurs, offering them valuable exposure to high-level health diplomacy and international cooperation.

As the summit moves into its third day, discussions will turn toward the role of traditional medicines, gender-responsive health systems, and the future of global health partnerships. With representation from across South Asia and beyond, the WHS Regional Meeting 2025 is set to leave a lasting impact on how health equity is pursued in the region.

TATA AIG Rolls Out MediCare Select Campaign Highlighting Flexibility and Inclusive Coverage

Mumbai, 25 April 2025: TATA AIG General Insurance Company has launched an integrated brand campaign for MediCare Select, a next-generation health insurance solution designed to provide flexible, inclusive, and comprehensive coverage for families spanning three generations. The product launch is part of the company’s larger strategy to deepen healthcare access across both urban and emerging markets and strengthen its retail health portfolio.

Set against the backdrop of a maternity ward, the emotionally charged campaign film tells the story of three generations — symbolising protection from the very first moment of life. It positions MediCare Select as a plan that adapts to evolving health needs, offering coverage that extends far beyond hospitalisation. The narrative reinforces the role of health insurance in securing family wellbeing across life stages.

The campaign will be promoted across a mix of print, digital, OTT, and social media platforms, aiming to build meaningful awareness and emotional connection with audiences across India.

Shekhar Saurabh, Senior Vice President and Head of Marketing, TATA AIG said, “With MediCare Select, we wanted to bring to life a product that reflects the emotional realities of modern Indian families — where health planning begins at life’s most defining moments. The campaign captures this sentiment through a story rooted in care, protection, and togetherness. As health needs evolve, our focus is on delivering solutions that are not just clinically relevant, but emotionally resonant and accessible across urban and semi-urban India.”

MediCare Select is part of TATA AIG’s evolving retail health portfolio, tailored for young families, professionals, and multi-generational households. Key features include unlimited sum insured restoration, full policy period utilisation under Infinite Advantage, and enhanced protection for OPD expenses, maternity care, mental wellness, and consumables. The plan also offers daily cash benefits, a no-claim bonus of up to 100%, and exclusive discounts for salaried individuals (7.5%) and young families (10%), making it a balanced blend of affordability, flexibility, and future-readiness.