Pee Safe Launches Latest Campaign ‘Zero Period’ for Menstrual Hygiene Day

Along with the DVC, a Month-Long On-Ground Campaign, Pee Safe Joins Hands with Athletes Divya Kumari and Dr. Ankita Pathak to Educate Young Girls in Schools and Communities.

To mark Menstrual Hygiene Day, Pee Safe, India’s leading personal and intimate hygiene brand, unveiled its new campaign, ‘#Zero Period,’ with the launch of a deeply moving digital video commercial (DVC). The film tells the story of an 8-year-old footballer who experiences her first period on the field, highlighting the confusion, fear, and eventual strength that define so many young girls’ journeys through menstruation. The DVC offers an emotional and honest portrayal of what periods feel like at that age. First periods may feel intimidating: Zero Period is Pee Safe’s attempt to make first periods easier.

At the heart of this campaign is Pee Safe’s Disposable Period Panty, an innovative product tailored for first-time menstruators. Made with ultra-absorbent, breathable material and designed to feel like regular underwear, the panty offers leak-proof protection. It helps young girls manage their periods confidently and comfortably, whether they’re at school, on the field, or simply doing their day-to-day activities.

According to Mr. Vikas Bagaria (Founder), “Zero Period is about making space for honest conversations around menstruation—especially the first one. For many young girls, that experience can be confusing and isolating. Our intent with this campaign is to challenge the idea that periods are a disruption or something to be hidden. We want girls to feel equipped, reassured, and uninterrupted in whatever they choose to do.”

According to Mr. Rithish Kumar (Co-Founder), “We notice young girls stepping away from activities they love because of the fear or stigma attached to menstruation. With Zero Period, we want to change that by fostering understanding and support, particularly in environments like schools and sports. Our goal is simple: to help make periods easier, not just physically, but emotionally and socially too.”

As part of the campaign, Pee Safe is spotlighting real-life advocates for menstrual health, such as Divya Kumari, a national-level kabaddi player turned referee, and Dr. Ankita Pathak, a former kho-kho player and current nutrition coach for the National Games 2025.

In collaboration with the SRF Foundation and Akhandjyoti Foundation, Pee Safe is also conducting on-ground menstrual hygiene awareness sessions for people from underprivileged backgrounds. Sessions are also being conducted across leading schools, including KR Mangalam, GD Goenka, Bal Bharati, and Delhi Public School, to educate young girls. These sessions aim to provide adolescent girls with accurate information, emotional reassurance, and access to essential hygiene products, enabling them to manage their periods with confidence and dignity.

The Future of Cardiac Wellness: The Burgeoning of Cardiac Facilities in India’s Tier 2 Cities

By- Dr Nilesh Katharia, Consultant Cardiologist, HCG Hospitals, Rajkot

Heart care was once considered the exclusive privilege of metropolitan dwellers. A person experiencing chest discomfort, or requiring sophisticated cardiac surgery in a small town would be rushed to the closest major metropolis. Such journeys entailed more than money; they cost time, energy, and, in unfortunate cases, lives.

However, there is a perceptible change.

India’s Tier II cities now present a new era of healthcare, particularly in Cardiology. Hospitals with state-of-the-art cardiac care infrastructure, trained workers, and advanced diagnostic instruments are briskly opening in areas that were previously considered “too small” for such establishments. For the people living in these cities, this is life-changing.

Why Heart Care Should Be Locally Accessible

Heart ailments often present with no warning signs. A blocked artery or an untreated rhythm issue can quickly escalate into a life-threatening situation. In such emergencies, even an hour’s delay can be critical.

The availability of fully operational cardiac units at an accessible distance ensures that cardiac arrests are medically managed within the golden hour—the vital time frame that defines the period within which, medical intervention can prevent lasting damage, or, fatality. Apart from crisis situations, even chronic illnesses, such as high blood pressure, cholesterol abnormalities, and early-stage valve problems require annual examinations and replacements, which can be difficult if the doctor is too far away.

When cardiologists and heart surgeons are readily accessible, better supervision, timely diagnosis, and prompt treatment can be assured. This becomes especially relevant in Tier II cities, where lifestyles are changing rapidly—with less physical activity, changing diets, and rising stress levels raising the risk of heart disease, particularly among younger people.

Modern cardiac centers in Tier II cities are in a position to provide ECGs, stress tests, angiography, stent insertion, and bypass surgery. From testing to therapy, all facilities are available. Some hospitals even have catheterization labs (cath labs), which allow doctors to quickly detect and remove blockages, using minimally invasive procedures.

Beyond treating heart attacks, these hospitals also focus on prevention. Heart health checkups, regular diabetes and hypertension testing, diet counselling, and post heart surgery rehabilitation programs are now available, without the need to travel to a distant location. This approach of comprehensive care encourages people to live a healthy lifestyle, instead of inviting the risk of cardiac episodes.

Trained Hands, Reliable Care

The frequent query is, “Are the doctors in my city experienced enough?” That gap is closing as more talented specialists trained in metros or even abroad, return to practice in their hometowns, or smaller cities, where there is both a demand for their services and a sense of fulfilment in serving their local communities.

Nurses and technicians are being trained to run advanced machinery and assist with complex surgery. Teleconsultation with top doctors in metropolitan areas enables people to access superior expertise, without leaving their homes.

This combination of physical availability and online professional consultation is enhancing patient morale in local facilities, and rightfully so.

Affordability is key.

Tier II hospitals are now able to provide high-quality treatment at a lower cost. Without the overheads of large-city infrastructure, and with the help of government health systems or insurance, many of these hospitals provide low-cost care, without sacrificing quality.

This affordability attracts more people to undergo routine testing, attend to their medication routines, and consult with doctors promptly, when necessary. In the long run, this preventative approach fosters awareness and the scope to manage and minimize cardiovascular disease.

If you live in India’s Tier II cities, cardiac therapy is no longer inaccessible. Be it high blood pressure, recovery after a heart treatment, or just chest pain, help is closer than you realize.

Cardiac wellness entails more than the availability of hospitals; it is about being equipped with awareness. Knowing the early warning symptoms of heart disease, getting regular check-ups, lowering lifestyle risk factors, such as smoking and not eating right, and having access to a trained physician, when necessary, are equally important.

The Road Ahead

The creation of cardiac clinics in smaller places is a public health revolution that makes quality heart care more accessible, timely, and effective, for millions of Indians who live outside of major cities.

If you or a loved one should experience symptoms such as chest pain, dyspnoea (laboured breathing), or general weariness that does not improve with rest, be warned. Consult a local cardiac expert, without delay. Early detection and timely treatment can mean a second lease on life.

Why Managing Thyroid Matters When You Have Diabetes

In India, about 1 in 10 adults have a thyroid disorder, and around 1 in 11 adults live with diabetes.But what many people don’t know is how often these two conditions are connected. In fact, approximately 1 in 4 people with Type 2 diabetes also have hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland is underactive. This overlap is not coincidental as both conditions affect how the body uses energy.

Understanding the linkage between thyroid & diabetes

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck, just below the Adam’s apple. It regulates the body’s metabolism, which affects how the body uses and stores energy. Thyroid hormones and insulin are like the body’s energy managers. Thyroid hormones help control how fast your body uses energy, while insulin helps manage your blood sugar levels. Together, they play a big role in keeping your metabolism running smoothly. So, when the thyroid function is disrupted, it can affect blood sugar control, and vice versa.

Dr Rohita Shetty, Medical Affairs Head, Abbott India said, “People living with diabetes are usually aware of their blood sugar levels and know how to manage the fluctuations. But many symptoms of thyroid disorders might go unnoticed, even though they can impact blood sugar levels. Thyroid health and blood sugar levels are more linked than you might think. That’s why it’s important to get regular thyroid check-ups. With the right care, thyroid disorders can be managed effectively, allowing people to live healthy and active lives.”

Dr. Mahesh DM, Endocrinologist, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, “Thyroid conditions are often neglected, with a large percentage of the population living with undetected issues and, as a result, not seeking the necessary care. Many people with diabetes may have thyroid problems without noticeable symptoms, which can range from fatigue, memory lapses, sleeping difficulties and excessive weight gain to constipation, dry skin, cold intolerance, muscle cramps, and puffy eyelids. An underactive thyroid can also result in fluctuations in energy levels, weight, mood, and heart rate, as the gland plays an important role in regulating these functions and supporting the body’s healthy development. This is why regular check-ups for thyroid function are important, especially for people with type 2 diabetes.”

Research shows that diabetes combined with thyroid disorders can increase the risk of kidney issues, poor heart function, and issues with blood circulation., These can lead to complications like diabetic retinopathy (happens when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina), nerve damage, and heart disease.

Types of thyroid disorders that influence blood sugar control:

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)

Hypothyroidism slows down how the body processes insulin. This means insulin stays in the bloodstream longer, which can cause unexpected dips in blood sugar. It slows down metabolism, leading to weight gain and increased insulin resistance. This can make it harder to keep blood sugar levels under control. Among people with diabetes, the most common type of thyroid disorder is subclinical hypothyroidism, a condition where your thyroid gland isn’t functioning normally, but there aren’t any visible symptoms. Type 2 diabetes can also increase the risk of developing hypothyroidism due to changes in how the immune system functions.

Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)

Hyperthyroidism speeds up metabolism. This causes the body to absorb glucose from food more quickly. However, cells become less responsive to insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia). This makes it challenging for people with diabetes to maintain stable glucose levels.

Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism affect blood sugar levels, requiring regular monitoring and management.

Managing the Dual Diagnosis

Addressing thyroid dysfunction can help with diabetes control. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and timely medication as advised by your doctor, can help keep both thyroid and blood sugar levels in check. Regular screening for thyroid function and blood sugar testing, as advised by your doctor, can ensure that any changes are diagnosed early.

Taking care of yourself by staying active, eating well, and getting enough sleep can really help. If you have both thyroid disorders and diabetes, you might need to pay extra attention to your health, by doing so can make you feel better and give you more energy to enjoy your favorite activities.

Karnataka’s First: Innovative Brain Stimulation Surgery Treats Epilepsy in 21-Year-Old Yemeni Patient

Bengaluru, 26th May 2025: Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road achieved ground-breaking success by performing Karnataka’s first targeted Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery to treat drug-resistant epilepsy. The procedure was led by Dr Raghuram G, Additional Director of Neurosurgery and Dr Guruprasad Hosurkar – Additional Director of Neurology. The patient, a 21-year-old male from Yemen, had been battling uncontrollable seizures for over 12 years. The patient was discharged within four days of the procedure and has reported remarkable improvement, with no seizures post-surgery.

Patient Mr. Mohamad (name changed) had been battling epilepsy that disrupted nearly every aspect of his daily routine. A bright pharmacy student, his ambitions were constantly derailed by multiple seizure attacks ranging from uncontrollable muscle movements and tremors to blank staring spells that occurred almost every day. Despite being on four strong anti-epileptic medications and visiting multiple hospitals, his condition did not improve. The seizures left him emotionally drained, socially isolated and physically weak.

Upon his arrival at Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road, the doctors meticulously evaluated his condition. While studying the specialized MRI and CT images, the doctors observed abnormal electrical activity in a rather widespread part of the brain and concluded that the patient’s seizures originated from those spots, rather than from a single focal point. In view of the severity of his condition, the doctors opted for an innovative approach – the Deep Brain Stimulation – a neurosurgical procedure used to regulate abnormal brain signals, targeting brain’s Centromedian Nucleus of thalamus on both sides.

Explaining the procedure, Dr Raghuram G – Additional Director, Neurosurgery, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road Bengaluru, said, “Deep Brain Stimulation is a precise and delicate procedure. We planned the entire procedure in minute detail using detailed brain scans and computer simulations. During the surgery, we placed thin wires (called electrodes) deep inside the brain with great accuracy. These wires were placed in an area called the Centromedian Nucleus, which helps control seizures. A guiding frame was used to make sure the placement was safe and accurate. The wires were then connected to a small battery-powered device, like a pacemaker for the brain, which was placed under the skin in the chest. This device sends gentle electrical signals to help stop the abnormal brain activity that causes seizures. The surgery went very smoothly, and the patient recovered well. He was walking the next day and has not had a seizure ever since.”

Dr Guruprasad Hosurkar – Additional Director Neurology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road Bengaluru said, “This young patient had a complex form of epilepsy that did not respond to medications, even after years of treatment. Since the seizures were coming from multiple areas of the brain, surgery to remove one part wasn’t an option. That’s why we chose Deep Brain Stimulation, targeting a specific area called the centromedian nucleus in the thalamus. This area helps control seizure activity. By sending small electrical signals to this part of the brain, we were able to significantly reduce his seizures and improve his quality of life. “

Following the successful brain surgery, the patient was discharged just four days later. He recovered quickly and began light physical therapy to help regain strength. Since the procedure, he has shown remarkable improvement; he has not had any seizures, feels more energetic, and has returned to his daily activities with confidence.

Mr. Akshay Oleti, Business Head, Fortis Hospitals Bengaluru, said, “This successful surgery reflects our ongoing commitment to bringing advanced, life-changing treatments to patients from across the globe. By offering Karnataka’s first Deep Brain Stimulation for epilepsy targeting the Centromedian Nucleus, we are proud to give hope to those who have exhausted other options. This case is a powerful example of how innovation, teamwork, and compassionate care can truly transform lives.”

High-Quality Knee Replacement Surgery Now Available for Just Rs1,10,000 at Apex Group of Hospitals

Mumbai – In a move set to bring relief to thousands suffering from chronic knee pain, Apex Group of Hospitals, known for providing high-quality medical care in Mumbai, has announced that advanced knee replacement surgery (for one knee) is now available for just ₹1,10,000. Combining state-of-the-art technology, a team of expert doctors, and world-class facilities, this decision marks a significant step toward making orthopedic care more accessible and affordable for the common man.

Knee pain has become increasingly common due to today’s fast-paced lifestyle and age-related wear and tear. It severely affects mobility and quality of life. For many, knee replacement surgery is the only permanent and effective solution. However, the high cost of this procedure has kept it out of reach for a large section of society. Understanding this pressing need, Apex Group of Hospitals has stepped forward with this affordable surgery package.

Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Vrajesh Shah, Medical Director at Apex Group of Hospitals, said, “We believe that quality healthcare is a fundamental right of every citizen. Our goal is to make world-class medical services accessible to all. Knee replacement surgery can be life-changing for many, and by offering it at just ₹1,10,000, we hope to reach patients across all socio-economic backgrounds. This initiative is a step toward extending advanced orthopedic care to every corner of society.”

He also added that eligible patients can receive financial assistance of up to ₹50,000 under the Chief Minister’s Assistance Fund, which can further reduce their out-of-pocket expenses.

The hospital is fully equipped with advanced surgical infrastructure, including cutting-edge operation theatres, experienced orthopedic surgeons, and a highly trained medical team. Every patient receives end-to-end care—pre-operative assessments, the surgery itself, and post-operative rehabilitation—through a comprehensive treatment plan.

This offer is not limited to a single branch; it is available at all major Apex Group of Hospitals locations. The initiative is being rolled out for a limited time and will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

Apex Group of Hospitals urges all those suffering from knee problems not to miss this opportunity. With affordability, safety, and quality at its core, this initiative is expected to benefit thousands of patients who have been postponing surgery due to financial constraints.

Know Your Blood Pressure and Keep It Under Check

Dr. Murali Krishna CH V, Senior Neuro Phisician CARE Hospitals, Malakpet stated, “Hypertension is often symptomless in its early stages, which is why it’s called the silent killer. However, if left unchecked, it can cause irreversible damage to organs and lead to serious complications such as stroke, heart attack, vision loss, and kidney failure. Awareness and timely management can truly save lives.”

India’s First Robotic Through the Mouth Surgery by MGM Cures Rare Throat Condition

Chennai, 16^th May 2025: MGM Healthcare has successfully performed India’s first Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS), a minimally invasive procedure conducted through the mouth with robotic assistance, on a 52-year-old woman, providing relief from Bilateral Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia, a condition characterised by severe throat pain and painful swallowing. It was also associated with a nagging neck pain also. The innovative procedure removed grossly elongated styloid processes in the neck (Eagle’s Syndrome) that were impinging on the glossopharyngeal nerve bilaterally, the root cause of her chronic pain not relieved on medications.

Despite undergoing numerous consultations and trying various medications at multiple hospitals, the patient’s condition persisted, leaving her in constant, debilitating pain. This patient from Chennai endured the pain for nearly a year without any cure. However, after the surgery, the patient experienced remarkable improvement. Within hours of the procedure, she reported a dramatic reduction in pain. Her swallowing difficulties were fully resolved. Within 48 hours, the patient was discharged with no further complications.

Bilateral Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia with Eagle’s Syndrome is rare, and in most cases, the typical approach to treatment would involve conventional surgeries, such as removal of the tonsils to access the parapharyngeal space and reach the styloid processes and the nerves. However, TORS allowed the removal of the styloid bones without the need for external incisions and spared the surrounding tissues and organs, including the palatine tonsils.

The groundbreaking surgery was performed by Prof. Dr. Sanjeev Mohanty, Senior Consultant and Head of the Department of ENT, Head & Neck Surgery at MGM Healthcare. In his comments, he said, “The patient had been suffering from excruciating throat and neck pain for nearly a year, despite multiple consultations and various treatments. After a thorough evaluation and advanced imaging techniques, we were able to accurately diagnose the patient’s condition as Bilateral Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia, caused by elongated styloid bones compressing the glossopharyngeal nerve. The challenge was accessing these deep, narrow areas to remove the elongated bones without damaging surrounding structures. This is where Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS) proved to be a game-changer. The robot’s articulatory arms allowed us to perform highly precise movements in the parapharyngeal space, which would have been extremely difficult with conventional methods. By performing the surgery through the mouth, we could safely remove the styloid bones, sparing vital organs like the tonsils and important blood vessels, thereby minimising the risk of complications. TORS provided an optimal solution, offering minimal invasion and ensuring a quicker, smoother recovery for the patient.”

He added that TORS has usually been used primarily for tumor removal, especially in the throat and mouth area. However, the ability to perform TORS for a rare condition like Bilateral Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia, caused by Eagle’s Syndrome, marks a significant milestone for MGM Healthcare. This innovative approach, done for the first time in the country, (just a few cases have been reported in literature worldwide with similar techniques) allows the surgeon to precisely access the affected areas and provide relief to a patient who had not found a solution despite multiple attempts at treatment elsewhere. “Our hospital is deeply committed to utilising cutting-edge technologies to improve patient outcomes, and this breakthrough demonstrates our expertise in leveraging robotic-assisted surgery for complex cases. With this success, we continue to uphold our promise to push the boundaries of medical innovation, offering hope and relief to patients without viable treatment options”.

Eye Q and NTPC Enable 100 Successful Cataract Surgeries in Surat Villages

New Delhi, 16^th May 2025: Eye-Q, a leading chain of super-speciality eye hospitals, in collaboration with NTPC (National Thermal Power Corporation), India’s largest integrated power producer, successfully concluded a high-impact CSR initiative at the NTPC Surat plant by organizing two free eye screening and cataract surgery camps. As part of NTPC’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitment to the communities around its operations, the initiative helped screen over 250 individuals from surrounding villages, of whom 100 patients underwent successful cataract removal surgeries by Eye-Q’s expert medical team.

A closing ceremony was held on 14 May 2025 to commemorate the successful completion of the initiative. During the event, Eye-Q distributed customized spectacles to all operated patients. The prescriptions were derived after detailed post-operative vision testing conducted on 8th and 9th May. The entire initiative—from screening to surgery to post-operative care—was provided completely free of cost, reaffirming both organizations’ commitment to healthcare equity and social impact.

Dr. Ajay Sharma, Founder and CMD of Eye-Q Eye Hospitals, said, “India faces a backlog of over 22 million blind eyes, representing nearly 12 million individuals, and shockingly, 80.1% of this blindness is caused by cataract—an entirely treatable condition. Our collaboration with NTPC has allowed us to address this burden at the grassroots level by restoring vision to 100 patients in Surat. At Eye-Q, we remain deeply committed to bridging this healthcare gap through accessible, quality eye care for all, especially for underserved communities.”

Dr. Samir Vankhawala, Regional Medical Director of Eye-Q Eye Hospitals, said, “At Eye-Q, we believe that access to eye care should not be a privilege but a basic right. We have a longstanding legacy of delivering quality eye care through free camps and outreach initiatives across underserved regions. This collaboration with NTPC has enabled us to expand that mission further, ensuring our combined efforts bring lasting impact to the communities we serve.”

S J David, Head of Plant at NTPC Hazira, added, “As part of our unwavering commitment to sustainable and inclusive development, this CSR collaboration with Eye-Q reflects NTPC’s dedication to improving the lives of communities in and around our project locations. Healthcare access is a priority area in our CSR strategy, and we are proud that this initiative has delivered tangible benefits to the people of Surat.”

Eye-Q has been a leader in corporate social responsibility (CSR) and outreach programs. The organization has conducted numerous free eye camps, door-to-door check-ups, and health awareness campaigns, impacting communities in need. Since its establishment in 2007, Eye-Q has conducted over 1 crore eye examinations and performed 6 lakh surgeries. Moving forward, the hospital chain aims to perform 80,000 surgeries and conduct 600,000 eye screenings by the end of 2025.

Dengue on the Rise in India: A Wake-Up Call

Dengue fever has become a serious and growing health threat in India, especially between July and mid-November. Recent years have seen a sharp rise in cases across the country not just in traditional hotspots, but in newer regions as well, such as Nagaland and parts of Himachal Pradesh. Experts point to climate change as a major reason behind this spread.

According to the National Centre for Vector-Borne Disease Control (NCVBDC) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), dengue cases in India have increased from 28,066 in 2010 to over 2.89 lakh in 2023. In 2025 (as of March), India has already reported more than 16,000 cases, indicating a worrying early trend for the year. This massive and continuing rise highlights the urgency of strengthening our public health systems and response.

Globally, dengue is spreading to new regions too. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that due to global warming, as many as 4.7 billion people could be at risk of dengue by the end of the century.

Dengue is caused by a virus spread by Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes thrive in warm, humid climates. As the climate changes, more parts of India are becoming suitable for their breeding. Higher temperatures speed up mosquito breeding cycles and help the dengue virus multiply faster inside their bodies. Rainfall, flooding, and even water storage during droughts create pools of stagnant water where mosquitoes breed, according to Dr Vikram Jeet Singh, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Aakash Healthcare.

A study published in The Lancet states that climate-sensitive diseases like dengue are likely to rise significantly, especially in South Asia, if countries do not act urgently. northern Indian states like Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh have started seeing regular outbreaks a sign that the traditional “dengue belt” is expanding.

Some media reports recently suggested that a dengue vaccine, Qdenga, has been approved in several countries and is expected to be launched in India next year. Reports claimed that Qdenga can protect people from all four strains of the dengue virus. 

Experts say India must take urgent steps to manage dengue both in the short and long term. In the short term, to combat the rising threat of dengue, a multi-pronged strategy is essential. One of the most effective short-term measures is the use of mosquito nets, window screens, and covers for water storage containers. When used consistently, these have been shown to significantly reduce mosquito bites and dengue transmission, said Dr Sunil Rana, Associate Director and Head of unit III internal Medicine, Asian Hospital. Additionally, biocontrol methods, like introducing mosquito-eating fish into ponds and tanks, have been successfully used in states like Andhra Pradesh to reduce mosquito populations without relying on chemical insecticides, said Dr Sunil Rana.

Stronger partnerships between government and private sector players can amplify the impact of control measures. Businesses can support community clean-up campaigns, fund public awareness drives, or help distribute low-cost mosquito control products, said Dr Vineet Rao, Consultant – General Medicine, Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune. In remote and underserved areas with limited health infrastructure, mobile health clinics and ASHA workers can play a critical role in delivering services such as dengue testing and educating communities on prevention methods, Dr Vineet. At the broader policy level, disaster response plans, especially in flood-prone states like Assam and Bihar, should integrate mosquito control as a key priority.

According to Dr. Aakaar Kapoor, CEO and Lead Medical Advisor at City XRay and Scan Clinic, India should adopt Integrated Vector Management (IVM) a coordinated approach that involves multiple sectors such as health, agriculture, urban planning, and the environment. While India’s National Vector-Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) includes elements of IVM, more coordination and on-ground training are needed to make it fully effective.

However, according to Dr. Praveen Gupta, Principal Director & Chief of Neurology, Fortis Hospital, emphasizes that dengue’s nationwide spread, amplified by climate change, brings not just fever but serious neurological risks like encephalitis, seizures, and Guillain-Barré syndrome. As cases surge year-round, early diagnosis and awareness are crucial. Beyond vector control and vaccines, safeguarding brain health demands urgent, coordinated, and informed public health action.

Public health efforts must be supported by individuals, local communities, and government agencies alike. As India adapts to a changing climate, fighting dengue must become a top priority, not just for health, but for national development, Dr Vikram.

Timely Thrombectomy Saves 32-Year-Old from Stroke at Wockhardt Hospitals

Mumbai – A 32-year-old woman, Mrs. Anuradha Shinde (name changed), experienced a life-threatening ischemic stroke during a routine health check-up, highlighting the underappreciated risks of dehydration and prolonged fasting. Mrs. Shinde, in good general health, had been fasting overnight for approximately 12 hours in preparation for a routine annual health check-up. During this period, she also abstained from drinking water. After her early morning blood tests at a diagnostic center, she entered the washroom to provide a urine sample but did not emerge for over 30 minutes. Concerned staff eventually found her inside the washroom with signs of acute neurological distress, specifically, weakness on the left side of her body.

Dr. Pavan Pai

She was rushed for immediate medical attention. An MRI of the brain revealed that she had suffered an ischemic stroke, affecting the right hemisphere of her brain. She was promptly administered a thrombolytic (clot-busting) injection in an effort to restore blood flow. However, her condition deteriorated rapidly. A follow-up MR angiography showed a complete occlusion of the right internal carotid artery (ICA), the major vessel supplying blood to the brain.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, she was transferred to Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road where a team led by senior neuro-interventionist Dr. Pavan Pai performed a mechanical thrombectomy—an advanced minimally invasive procedure used to remove the clot directly from the artery.

“This case was a stark reminder that even young individuals without prior health conditions can suffer serious strokes under specific circumstances like dehydration,” said Dr. Pavan Pai, Consultant Interventional Neurologist & Stroke Specialist in Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road “When a person is dehydrated, blood becomes more viscous, or thicker, and this can severely impact circulation. In people who may already have some level of narrowing in their blood vessels, the risk of clot formation and blockage rises dramatically. Mrs. Shinde’s quick transfer and the rapid intervention with mechanical thrombectomy were critical to saving her life and preventing permanent disability.”

Following the procedure, Mrs. Shinde was placed on a comprehensive neurorehabilitation program, which included physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Over the course of three months, she made a remarkable recovery. Today, she has regained full function and is back to work, living independently and without deficits.

This case underscores the importance of awareness around the potential dangers of extended fasting and dehydration, even in the context of routine medical procedures. While fasting is commonly practiced for blood tests, individuals—especially women and those with known or suspected vascular issues—should be advised to stay well-hydrated unless specifically instructed by a doctor. When you’re dehydrated, your blood becomes thicker, making it harder to circulate through the body. If you already have a narrowed or partially blocked blood vessel, dehydration adds stress to your system and significantly raises your risk of stroke.

Dr. Pavan Pai further emphasized the importance of timely diagnosis and intervention: “Stroke is a medical emergency where every second counts. Rapid imaging and treatment can mean the difference between full recovery and lifelong disability. Public awareness and preparedness are essential.”

Key Takeaways:
• Always stay adequately hydrated before routine fasting blood tests unless otherwise instructed.
• Be alert to warning signs of stroke: sudden weakness, difficulty speaking, facial droop, or loss of coordination.
• Seek immediate medical help at the first sign of neurological symptoms—timely action saves lives.
World Stroke Thrombectomy Day was established in 2021 to support Mission Thrombectomy’s campaign to bring awareness to the benefits of stroke treatment intervention, and the need for access to such treatments, specifically in low- and middle-income countries. This day is recognized each year on May 15th, but the work to secure global access happens every day.