Category Archives: Health

Underweight and Unbalanced: Gut Microbial Diversity in Underweight Japanese Women

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Obesity and Yoga: Reconnecting Mind, Body, and Metabolism

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AIOS demands immediate Government Action

1. Nationwide Ban and Crackdown

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

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

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

2. Public Awareness Campaign

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

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

3. Emergency Hospital Preparedness

• Maintain 24-hour ophthalmic emergency readiness.

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

4. School and Community Vigilance

• Strict prohibition of device use by children and youth.

• Report possession or use to local authorities.

5. Legal Action and Supply Chain Disruption

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How lifestyle changes can reduce breast cancer risk

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

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

Understanding Breast Cancer Risk

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

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

The Link Between Lifestyle and Breast Cancer Risk

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

Acting: Simple Lifestyle Changes

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

The Benefits Beyond Prevention

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

Building a Hopeful Future

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

Biopeak and Modern Mayr Medicine Join Forces to Redefine Preventive Health in India

Aims to bring, 150 Years of Preventive Health Wisdom Tailored to Indian Lifestyles and Ethnicity

Bengaluru, India, October 23, 2025: Biopeak, India’s first full-stack precision health and wellness platform,  announced a landmark strategic partnership with Austria’s Modern Mayr Medicine, a global pioneer in gut health and natural preventive medicine. This collaboration brings the 150-year clinical legacy of Dr. F.X. Mayr’s systemic health philosophy to India in the form of Modern Mayr Medicine, seamlessly blending time-tested principles with Biopeak’s cutting-edge, data-driven personalized health model. This partnership will create advanced, culturally attuned health & wellness programs tailored to Indian ethnicity, lifestyle, and long-term health goals.

“India is on the cusp of a medical revolution. Consumers today are concerned about their physical and mental wellness. The next frontier of healthcare lies in prevention, healthspan and longevity, not just correction.” said Rishi Pardal, CEO & Co-Founder, Biopeak. “By uniting Modern Mayr Medicine’s wisdom with the precision of AI, we aim to transform preventive healthcare in India, enabling people to move from reactive treatment to proactive health ownership. This is just the beginning of a new era in understanding and managing well-being.”

This partnership marks the next chapter in Biopeak’s ongoing association with Prof. Dr. Harald Stossier, and Irina Sharma, global authorities in Modern Mayr Medicine and members of Biopeak’s advisory board. Under the partnership, experts from Modern Mayr Medicine will work with Biopeak to further develop its flagship programs across nutrition, therapeutics, and lifestyle medicine. In parallel, Biopeak will invest in training physicians and clinical teams in the Modern Mayr Medicine protocol, ensuring authority, clinical fidelity and local adaptation. A Biopeak- Modern Mayr program is slated for launch in 2026.

“Modern Mayr Medicine is proud to bring its rich heritage to India, where longevity and personalized health are rapidly becoming part of the mainstream,” said Pioneer of Modern Mayr Medicine Prof. Dr. Harald Stossier. “Through our collaboration with Biopeak, we will offer customers our most prized tool; Modern Mayr comprehensive diagnostic approach, along with science-backed methods that empower individuals to take control of their long-term health and wellbeing. Our goal is to provide healthy longevity.”

A Shared Vision for Preventive and Longevity-Focused Health

Modern Mayr Medicine places intestinal health at the core of overall wellness, focusing on digestion, balanced nutrition, and metabolic harmony. Its approach resonates with emerging science on gut health and personalized nutrition, which increasingly shows the link between digestive wellness, immunity, metabolism, and longevity. Biopeak’s advisory board and panel of global experts collectively shape programs rooted in data, diagnostics, and personalization.

Together, Biopeak and Modern Mayr Medicine aim to set a new benchmark for preventive and longevity-focused healthcare in India, uniting legacy and innovation, experience and evidence, to empower individuals to take control of their health. The announcement was made at Biopeak’s flagship Media Day in Bengaluru, where the company also outlined its roadmap of upcoming health innovation initiatives.

S.L. Raheja Hospital Mumbai Launches ‘Humraahi’ – A First-of-Its-Kind Neuro Support Group for Patients & Caregivers

~ Inaugurated by actor Arbaaz Khan, the Neuro Support Group ‘Humraahi’ combines compassionate care, expert guidance, and community support for patients & caregivers navigating neurological challenges ~

Mumbai, 19th October 2025: S.L. Raheja Hospital, Mumbai proudly launched ‘Humraahi’ – a pioneering Neuro Support Group aimed at providing holistic care and support for individuals living with neurological disorders and their caregivers. The initiative addresses the critical gap in neurological and psychiatric care while helping break the stigma around conditions like Alzheimer’s, Epilepsy, Dementia, Parkinson’s Disease, and Stroke.

The event hosted at S.L. Raheja Hospital, Mumbai, brought together patients, caregivers, medical experts, and the community for an interactive session, offering therapeutic activities such as art and music therapy, expert guidance, and peer support. Bollywood actor and producer Arbaaz Khan inaugurated the event, lending visibility to the cause.

Dr Kaustubh Mahajan, Director – Neurology, S.L. Raheja Hospital Mahim – a Fortis Associate Mumbai, said, “Neurological disorders often co-exist with psychiatric conditions, which can make the journey extremely challenging for patients and families. Humraahi is not just a support group—it is a companion for patients and caregivers alike, providing guidance, community, and access to comprehensive care in a safe, empathetic environment.”

Arbaaz Khan, Bollywood Actor & Producer, commented, “This initiative is deeply personal for me. Being part of Humraahi today was truly inspiring. Meeting the patients and their caregivers, seeing their courage and resilience, and understanding the importance of such holistic support reinforced how critical awareness & community initiatives are. It made me realise the importance of early support, awareness, and holistic care. S.L. Raheja Hospital is not just providing medical care, it’s creating a community of hope. I am proud to be associated with the medical team here in this journey.”

Dr Kunal Punamiya, CEO – S.L. Raheja Hospital, Mahim – a Fortis Associate, added, “At S.L. Raheja Hospital, we understand that healing isn’t just about treating the illness—it’s also about caring for the mind, body, and heart. ‘Humraahi’, an initiative deeply personal for us, brings together neurology and mental health, and aims to break the stigma and build a community that walks this journey together.”

To ensure accessibility, patients and caregivers from other hospitals and care homes across Mumbai can join the Humraahi Neuro Support Group for free by scanning this QR code. This allows participants to register easily, participate in sessions, and access resources and expert guidance without barriers. Members of the Humrahi group, including patients from SL Raheja Hospital and other hospitals, will be provided with Raheja Home Care services.

With one neurologist per million people in India, the launch of ‘Humraahi’ is a step towards bridging the neurorehabilitation gap, offering emotional, social, and clinical support to a community that has historically lacked structured guidance. Caregivers, who are often the primary decision-makers, also gain access to resources, peer networks, and expert insights to better support their loved ones.

Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar Boosts Breast Cancer Awareness

Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar Strengthens Breast Cancer Awareness with Focus on Screening and Preventive Care

Bhubaneswar, 18th October 2025: Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar joined the global movement in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month by launching a special initiative aimed at encouraging early detection, preventive screenings, and post-surgery wellness care. In line with this year’s theme “Every Story Unique. Every Victory Different.”, the hospital unveiled its PinkPledge Selfie Zone, inviting patients, visitors, and staff to stand in solidarity with breast cancer survivors and spread the message of hope and awareness.

 As part of the campaign, participants received a detailed care booklet  a practical guide covering breast self-examination, post-surgical care, drain management, and recovery exercises. The effort reflects the hospital’s holistic approach to wellness, focusing not only on treatment but also on awareness, empowerment, and long-term support. Breast cancer awareness is crucial as the disease often develops silently, with early signs like lumps, nipple discharge, or skin changes easily overlooked. Regular screening and self-examination help detect such symptoms early, improving recovery chances and reducing the need for aggressive treatments. 

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Nitish Ranjan Acharya, Consultant Surgical Oncology, Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, said, “Surgical outcomes in breast cancer improve dramatically when the disease is detected early. Awareness is the bridge that connects women to life-saving interventions. Through initiatives like these, we aim to create a community where stigma is replaced by support, and fear is replaced by informed action.”

Dr. Sachin Sekhar Biswal, Consultant Medical Oncology, Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, added, “Breast cancer awareness begins with informed choices and timely action. As a medical oncologist, I have seen firsthand how early detection can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life. Our goal is to ensure that every woman feels empowered to prioritize her health through regular screenings and open conversations about breast health.”

The initiative highlights Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar’s focus on promoting regular breast health screenings and raising awareness about early detection. Through ongoing health programs and awareness activities, the hospital encourages women to prioritize check-ups for timely diagnosis and better overall breast health.

Indian Cancer Society Unveils Breast Cancer Awareness Film

Indian Cancer Society Launches Breast Cancer Awareness Film Inspiring Women to Break the Stigma and Stay Two Steps Ahead of breast cancer 

Mumbai, 14th October 2025: The Indian Cancer Society (ICS), dedicated to raising awareness and supporting those affected by cancer, is proud to announce the launch of its new film on breast cancer awareness, aimed at breaking the stigma, encouraging early detection, and inspiring communities through powerful storytelling. Through an impactful message, the film seeks to promote proactive health-seeking behaviour and spread hope among patients, survivors, and families. This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to empower individuals with knowledge and encourage a united fight against breast cancer. 

According to GLOBOCAN 2022, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in India, accounting for approximately 26.6% of all female cancers. In 2022, an estimated 192,020 new cases of breast cancer were reported among women in the country, and the number of new cases is projected to continue increasing in the coming years. 

Late diagnosis continues to be a key challenge, as many women are diagnosed at advanced stages, leading to reduced survival rates. Delayed diagnosis is tied to a lack of awareness, socio-economic factors, stigma, cultural barriers and limited access to diagnostic and treatment facilities. To address these challenges, the Indian Cancer Society has come up with a new film on breast cancer awareness and plans to roll out a campaign, timed with Breast Cancer Awareness Month. 

The film uses the simple, everyday act of “touch” to convey the power of self-examination in early detection of breast cancer. It shows a woman who uses her touch daily to care for others and make everyday judgments checking her child’s temperature, checking fruit ripeness, food doneness, or fabric quality etc. The same caring touch that ensures others’ well-being can also protect her own life. 

This short film highlights the importance of Self-Breast Examination (SBE), which is recommended for all, especially the premenopausal women between the 5th and 10th day of their menstrual cycle, and on one fixed day each month for postmenopausal women. The complete details of SBE and steps involved are captured in our website To know more, please visit, Indian Cancer Society – Breast Cancer 

To maximize reach and impact, the film will be released in five languages (Hindi, Marathi, Telugu, Bengali and Kannada), enabling wider visibility and ensuring that people from diverse regions can connect with its message of awareness and hope. The film will be aired on Digital platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and screened through collaborations with hospitals, corporate partners, and community groups. “Through this film, ICS wants to bring attention to the fact that awareness is the first step to prevention,” said Mrs. Usha Thorat, Hon. Secretary and Managing Trustee, ICS. “By sharing real stories, we hope to inspire women to prioritize their health and encourage families to be supportive.” 

As part of the campaign, several screening camps will be organized across the month, ensuring that awareness is coupled with timely action. This initiative underscores ICS’s unwavering commitment to empowering individuals with knowledge and driving meaningful change in the fight against breast cancer.

Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar Ji’s Taiwan Visit: Bridging Himalayan Science and Modern Innovation

Taipei, Taiwan — 14th Oct 2025 — The recent visit of Himalayan Siddha Akshar Ji, a globally renowned spiritual leader and founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa, to Taiwan marked a momentous convergence of ancient Himalayan Science of Consciousness with the technological prowess of Northeast Asia.

In a historic conversation between innovation and tradition, Grand Master Akshar ji presented a visionary integration of metaphysical knowledge and contemporary science, encouraging the audience to embrace conscious evolution in the digital age.

Rediscovering the Himalayas Within

Speaking to seekers, professionals, and innovators in Taiwan, Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar Ji shed light on the deeper nature of Yoga — not just a physical practice, but a path towards higher consciousness.

“Globally, humans practice yoga, but peace still evades us,” he declared.

“Change starts when we revisit ancient Himalayan processes and articulate them in language the contemporary mind can understand.”

He added that the Himalayas represent the pinnacle of awareness, a holy inner peak reached via quiet, equipoise, and harmony — despite the din of technological advancement.

Why Northeast Asia Resonates with Himalayan Wisdom

Nations like Taiwan, Japan, China, South Korea, and Hong Kong — the world over renowned for innovation and accuracy — possess an intrinsic cultural affinity with Himalayan philosophy. Their common desire for excellence, discipline, and finesse is reflective of the Siddha path of awareness and expertise.

“We shouldn’t be scared of technology or AI,” Grand Master Akshar ji clarified.

“They are not the issue — unconscious use is.”.

Spirituality and technology may evolve in concert when informed by consciousness.

This message struck a deep chord among Taiwan’s AI researchers, robotic engineers, and research scientists, most of whom understood that the inherent purpose of technology is not about dependence, but human evolution.

Bridging Metaphysics and Modern Science

In interactive classes and meditative sessions, Siddhaa Akshar Ji deciphered ancient yogic sciences — like Bhramari Pranayama — using the language of contemporary physics and neuro-energetics.

He uncovered how sound, geometry, and breathing comprise an exact energy architecture within the human system, correlating neural circuits and vibrational spaces to expanded states of consciousness.

Further elaborating, he equated yogic experiences with theories such as wormholes, time dilation, and fluidity of consciousness, leading participants to navigate shifted observation of time and space using controlled attention and energy techniques.

Translating Himalayan wisdom into the terms of quantum mechanics and consciousness science, Grand Master Akshar made spirituality a concrete, measurable reality from vague mysticism.

Evolving Beyond — From Human to Superhuman

The Taiwan sessions ended in a profound realization by participants:

“Spirituality is not about giving up the world — it is about upgrading yourself.”

Through the Himalayan Science of Consciousness, Grand Master Akshar reinforced the fact that enlightenment was not an accident but a methodical evolution possible through disciplined control of breath, mind, and energy.

When inner technology (Prana, Mind, Sound) harmonizes with outer technology (AI, Communication, Science), humanity moves toward a new era — one where peace and progress coexist.

A Living Transmission of Awareness

Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar ji’s visit to Taiwan served as a transmission of energy and consciousness, reminding audiences that the wisdom of the Himalayas is not ancient history, but a living, evolving science guiding modern civilization toward balance and awareness.

As his speech and presence echoed throughout Taiwan’s mountains and cities, a silence awakened — from geeks to truth seekers.