16, Nov 2024
From Diagnosis to Empowerment: Navigating the Epilepsy Journey
By – Dr. Ravi Kumar CP, Consultant – Pediatric Neurology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders affecting approximately 1 in 100 people in India. Characterized by recurrent seizures, which result from abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can vary in type and severity, and their unpredictability can significantly impact the daily life and well-being of those affected. Despite its prevalence, epilepsy remains underdiagnosed and misunderstood in many parts of the world. Through increased awareness, appropriate treatment, and lifestyle changes, individuals with epilepsy can lead fulfilling lives.
Symptoms
The hallmark symptom of epilepsy is seizures, but their nature can vary greatly.
• Focal Seizures: These originate in one area of the brain. They can be further divided into simple partial seizures (where consciousness is preserved) and complex partial seizures (where consciousness is impaired). Symptoms may include unusual sensations, changes in perception, or involuntary movements.
• Generalized Seizures: These involve both sides of the brain. The most common type of generalized seizure is the tonic-clonic seizure (formerly known as grand mal), which involves loss of consciousness, muscle rigidity, and rhythmic jerking movements. Other generalized seizures include absence seizures (brief lapses in consciousness), atonic seizures (sudden loss of muscle strength), and myoclonic seizures (sudden, brief jerks of the body).
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of epilepsy typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and specialized tests. The most common diagnostic tool is an electroencephalogram (EEG), which measures the brain’s electrical activity. The EEG can detect abnormal patterns that indicate epilepsy, especially during or after a seizure. Additional tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans, may be conducted to rule out structural abnormalities in the brain or other underlying conditions that could contribute to seizure activity.
In some cases, blood tests may be performed to check for metabolic or genetic factors, infections, or other medical conditions that could trigger seizures. A detailed assessment by a neurologist is critical to differentiate epilepsy from other conditions that may mimic seizure-like symptoms.
Management & Prevention
In recent years, dietary strategies have emerged as a conventional treatment, particularly for individuals whose seizures are difficult to control with medication. The two most commonly studied dietary approaches are the ketogenic diet and the low glycemic index treatment.
Ketogenic Diet: The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that has been shown to reduce seizures in some people with epilepsy. On a ketogenic diet, the majority of your calories come from fats (about 70-80%), with a moderate amount of protein (around 20-25%), and very few carbohydrates (only about 5-10%).
• Fats: This includes foods like meat, fish, butter, oils, avocados, and nuts.
• Proteins: Foods like eggs, cheese, and meats like chicken, beef, and fish are common.
• Carbohydrates: You avoid or eat very small amounts of high-carb foods like bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, sugary snacks, and most fruits.
Low Glycemic Index Diet: The Low Glycemic Index (GI) Diet is an eating plan that focuses on choosing foods that cause a slower rise in blood sugar levels. The idea is to eat foods that are digested more slowly, helping to keep blood sugar levels steady rather than causing sharp spikes and crashes.
• High-GI foods (like white bread, sugary snacks, and sodas) cause a quick spike in blood sugar because they break down quickly into sugar.
• Low-GI foods (like whole grains, legumes, and most vegetables) break down more slowly and lead to a gradual rise in blood sugar.
Treatment
Epilepsy treatment focuses on controlling seizures and improving the quality of life for the patient. The approach typically involves a combination of medication, lifestyle adjustments, and in some cases, surgical intervention.
• Medications: Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are the most common treatment for epilepsy. These medications help to regulate the brain’s electrical activity and prevent seizures. It may take time to find the right medication and dosage for each individual, and some patients may experience side effects that require adjustments to their treatment plan.
• Surgery: For patients who do not respond to medications, surgical options may be considered. Surgery involves removing the part of the brain responsible for seizure activity. In some cases, a procedure called vagus nerve stimulation or deep brain stimulation may be used to help control seizures.
Despite the significant advances in understanding and treating epilepsy, there remains a widespread lack of awareness about the condition. Raising awareness is crucial to improving the lives of people and by enhancing access to effective treatments.
A multi-faceted plan of action should also include better integration of dietary therapies, holistic approaches, and individualized care to address the diverse needs of individuals living with epilepsy. By fostering a deeper understanding of epilepsy and promoting timely intervention, we can ensure that those affected by this disorder lead healthier, more empowered lives.
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- By Rabindra
6, Oct 2024
Quambiant Global Grace Cancer Run 2024: 20,000 Participants in Gachibowli, Hyderabad
Hyderabad, October 06, 2024…… Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, Minister for Roads, Buildings and Cinematography, Government of Telangana grace as chief guest at the prizes presentation ceremony at Quambiant Global Grace Cancer Run 2024.
Earlier Ms Jennifer Larson, Consular General US Consulate, Hyd; Sri VC. Sajjanar, IPS, MD TSRTC and Dr. Bart S. Fisher, IPS, Chairman, Give Life Foundation flagged off three different categories of runs—10K, 5K and 2K. A total of 20,000 people participated in the run.
Komatireddy Venkat Reddy along with other guests gave away prizes to the winners of “Quambiant Global Grace Cancer Run-2024”.
In the men’s 10K category, Mohit Chowdary stood first completing the 10K run in 33.22 minutes and earning Rs 12,500/- prize money. Bodupally Ramesh stood second by completing the run in 34.15 minutes and was awarded Rs 7500/- prize money and Ramesh Chandra came third by completing the run in 34.15 minutes and bagged Rs 5000/- prize money.
In the Women 10K run category Uma completed it in 40.41 minutes, Maheshwari in 42.45 minutes and Rajeshwari in 43.58 minutes and stood first, second and third and walked away with the prize money of Rs 12,500/-, 7,500/- and 5000/- respectively.
Speaking on the occasion the Minister appreciated the Grace Cancer Foundation and Dr Chinnababu for helping the poor by screening free of cost for cancer at their doorstep. It is a yeoman service. I am pleased to note that 20,000 have participated in the Hyderabad event, which may be the biggest in India as far as Cancer Awareness Runs are concerned. Also, I am happy to note that it is the world’s biggest cancer awareness run which is being organised in dual mode—both physical and virtual across 130 countries and well over one lakh participate in it.
Hyderabad is a health capital. 40 to 50% of drugs supplied to various countries are manufactured here. It is a Vaccine capital and health tourism hub. An event like this happening in such a happening city is praiseworthy. Early detection is the key to cancer treatment. We can save lives if diagnosed in the first or second stage. But, it will be difficult to save if diagnosed in advanced stages, the Minister said.
Health is wealth. Fitness is important for health. Everyone must take part in sports. Rightly our Chief Minister declared a Sports University in Hyderabad to encourage more and more to get into sports, he said. I am also a fitness freak. I get up at 4 am and run for 10kms every day except on Sundays, he shared and advised all to get fit
The Congress Government initiated the Outer Ring Road in 2024. Now, the same Congress has started a Regional Ring Road, at a project outlay of Rs 30,000 crore. This will put Hyderabad on the world map for its infrastructure. The works of the same will begin in December, he said.
Kiran Tanuja, India’s first blade runner from Faridabad participated in the run. People from various walks of life and ages such as 3 years to 80 years participated in the run. The run was organized to raise funds for free cancer screening. Kiran said anything can happen in life. And don’t stop your efforts. Now with this blade, I run 21 kms. So believe in yourself, she said.
HYSEA, SCSC, CII, LIC and many other organisations supported the run. It was the 7th edition of the run. The run is planned to raise funds to deploy free cancer screening.
The run was organized with the theme “Run for Grace Screen for Life” disclosed by Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli, Senior Consultant Robotic Surgical Oncologist and the Founder of GRACE (Global Research and Cancer Education) Cancer Foundation.
The run was organised by GRACE Cancer Foundation, a Hyderabad-based non-profit organisation founded to alleviate the burden of cancer through education, early detection, treatment, rehabilitation, and cutting-edge research.
The objectives for the Run according to Dr. Chinababu are to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives by creating awareness about Cancer, to promote physical activity as a means to prevent and combat cancer in society and to help people lead active lifestyles and also to raise funds for screening the underprivileged right at their doorstep, for free.
5, Oct 2024
Hyderabad Declaration: AMR and Oral Health Take Center Stage at G-SPARC 2024
Hyderabad, October 05, 2024: The three-day Global South Conference on Infection Prevention, Control and Antimicrobial Stewardship(G-SPARC)-2024 which is being attended by well over 2000 delegates concluded on Saturday evening.
Prof. GVS Murthy, President, PRASHO; R Govind Hari, Chairman, PRASHO; Dr. Ranga Reddy Burri, Chairman G-Sparc; Dr. Raghu N Reddy, Co-Chair of G-Sparc and Continental Hospitals; Dr. Shamanna, Professor, University of Hyderabad; Sri. B J Rao, Vice Chancellor, University of Hyderabad; Mr. Gareth Wynn Owen, Deputy High Commissioner, UK Consulate, Hyderabad and Mr. Nkwan Jacob Gobte, Honorary Secretary, ICAN graced the closing function
R Govind Hari, Co-Chair, G-SPARC 2024 gave a welcome address.
The organisers have unveiled G-SPARC 2024, Hyderabad Declaration. Two White papers on AMR and State Action Plans for containment in India and Oral Health and AMR Declaration. It presented 21 recommendations in its Hyderabad Declaration. The following are a few highlights of the 21 recommendations.
The declaration said AMR is a manmade disaster and has to be fought by concerted action.
Countries must institute effective and efficient surveillance and monitoring mechanisms.
Strong collaborations must be forged between Global South countries. The countries must support each other and stop the emergence of AMR and newer strains.
All countries in the global south must articulate strategies and action plans to combat AMR.
The high-income countries in the world should allocate a healthy proportion of their GDP to help Global South countries to fight AMR.
To see that at least 60% of countries have funded national action plans on AMR by 2030.
The Global Anti-Microbial Resistance Multi-Partner Trust Fund mooted by the UNGA (United Nations General Assembly) should prioritize countries of the Global South.
UNGA should target that at least 70% of Antibiotics used for Human Health globally should belong to the WHO Access Group Antibiotics with relatively minimal side effects and potential to cause AMR.
The One Health approach should be the cornerstone of all AMR activities.
Adequate funding should be earmarked for awareness campaigns
It strongly recommended that across the Global South, no Antibiotics including topical preparations should be dispensed without a qualified health practitioner’s prescription
G-Sparc calls for India’s remaining g states and union territories to develop and implement state-level Action Plans by 2026.
Every health facility must have an Infection, Prevention, Control and AMR committee
Community engagements are critical in reducing AMR and improving IPC practices.
During the closing ceremony, three MoUs were signed and exchanged.
One MoU was signed and exchanged between PRASHO & Oxford Brookes to Design and Offer Academic Programs to improve public health capacity including in WASH, IPC & AMS. The MoU was exchanged between Dr. Sarah Howcutt, Lead of Public Health & Sri. R Govind Hari, Chairman, PRASHO.
The second MoU was between SCIINV from Telangana, India & Microbira UK. Two prominent startups who are building digital tools for improving AMR diagnostic capacity to form a Joint Venture to jointly invest & further develop tools for containment of AMR. Dr. Marianne Ismail of Microbira, Dr. Ratnakar, Dr. Pradeep and Mr. Krishna Burri from SCIINV participated and exchanged the MoU.
The 3rd MoU was signed between ICAN & IFCAI, for a deeper collaboration for improving policy and practices of IPC and AMS in Global South. Prof. Chedli Azouzz and Prof. Ranga Reddy Burri exchanged the MoU.
Awards were presented to five leaders in AMR and IPC (Infection Prevention Control) and Three hospitals for best practices in AMR. They include Prof. Purva Mathur – AIIMS Delhi; Prof. Chedili Azzouz, Chairman, ICAN; Dr. Anuj Sharma – WHO India Country Office; Ms. Shailaja Teacher – fomer. Health Minister Kerala. She was not present in person to receive the same. Dr. Annie Thakore received the Award on her behalf.
The other recipients were Prof. Shaheen Mehtar – South Africa. Mr. Nkwan Jacob Gobte, Honorary Secretary, ICAN received her behalf.
Awards for excellence in the IPC & AMS Hospitals category were presented to AIIMS, Delhi, Dr. Purva Mathur received the award; Continental Hospitals, Dr. Guru N Reddy received the award and Pranaam Hospitals, Dr. Maneesh Gour received it on behalf of the hospital.
The objective of the conference was to provide a platform for Infection Prevention and Control (IPC), Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), and Patient Safety stakeholders from Global South.
G-Sparc was organized by the Infection Control Academy of India (IFCAI); University of Hyderabad (UoH); Pragyaan Sustainable Health Outcomes Foundation (PRASHO)
11, Sep 2024
Cancer Treatment Now Possible Without Chemo, Radiation, or Surgery, Major Breathrough by Devi Ahilya Cancer Hospital in Delhi
New Delhi, September 11 2024: BR Healthcare and Devi Ahilya Cancer Pain & Palliative Care Center have jointly announced a significant step forward in cancer treatment. The two institutions have inaugurated a new palliative care center in the heart of Delhi, dedicated to offering specialized care and relief to cancer patients. This 50-bed Electro Homeopathy Cancer Hospital aims to provide treatment for cancer patients without chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery, offering relief from pain and discomfort through the power of electro-homeopathy.
Chief Guest, Mr. Om Jain, expressed, “This center is a unique initiative dedicated to cancer patients. Without the need for surgery or chemotherapy, patients will receive affordable and effective treatment through electro-homeopathy. This is a major milestone for the nation’s capital.”
Guest of Honor, Mr. Anil Shastri, lauded the effort, stating, “Having such a dedicated center for cancer patients is commendable. It’s not just about treatment but also about providing comprehensive support to patients and their families, empowering them to fight life’s toughest battles.”
*A Holistic Approach to Cancer Treatment*
Dr. Ajay Hardia, Founder of Devi Ahilya Cancer Pain & Palliative Care Center, shared, “Our mission is to improve the quality of life for cancer patients through electro-homeopathy. We are committed to relieving pain without side effects, enhancing the overall well-being of our patients.”
Mrs. Manisha Sharma, CEO of Devi Ahilya Cancer Pain & Palliative Care Center, emphasized the center’s commitment to women’s cancer treatment. “Our goal is to provide not only physical but also mental and emotional support to women affected by cancer. Through herbal electro homeopathy, we are dedicated to leading them towards a healthier and empowered future,” she said.
*A New Hope for Cancer Patients*
Dr. Kaushal Gangil, Director of BR Healthcare, said, “The growing number of cancer patients in India is a significant challenge. With the establishment of this new palliative care center, we are taking a crucial step towards relieving patients and improving their quality of life. Our objective is to offer treatment that helps patients live a better life.”
Through this new center, BR Healthcare and Devi Ahilya Cancer Pain & Palliative Care Center are introducing a new direction in cancer treatment, offering patients hope and the possibility of a better life.
Key Highlights:
– Plant-Based Treatment: Electro homeopathy medicines, which offer quick relief to cancer patients, reducing pain and discomfort.
– Non-Invasive Treatment: Treatment without chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery, enhancing the patient’s quality of life.
– No Side Effects: This treatment has no side effects, and many patients have experienced an improvement in their life expectancy.
– Expert Counseling: Counseling by experienced doctors empowers patients mentally and boosts their confidence in fighting cancer.
– Advanced Technology: Bio-Energy Imaging machines monitor patients’ energy levels and track their health improvements.
Facilities Offered:
– 50-bed hospital
– OPD and counseling services
– Modern electro homeopathy lab
– Bio Energy Imaging machines
– Private and semi-private rooms
– Skilled nursing staff
– Affordable treatment
– ICU facility
6, Sep 2024
NephroPlus Launches Strategy to Combat Hepatitis C in Haemodialysis Patients
Hyderabad, 6th September 2024: NephroPlus, Asia’s leading dialysis centre network, has launched an innovative and impactful program to address the challenges of Hepatitis C infection in haemodialysis patients, particularly in low-resource settings. This initiative underscores NephroPlus’ commitment to improving patient outcomes and strengthening the health system. Hepatitis C is a persistent and often silent infection that frequently affects patients undergoing maintenance haemodialysis. The clustering of risk factors within dialysis units necessitates robust prevention, screening, and treatment strategies. NephroPlus has implemented a provider-driven approach to effectively address this health system gap, focusing on both patient and systemic benefits.
In a landmark pilot study conducted from 2022 to 2024, NephroPlus screened maintenance haemodialysis patients for Hepatitis C across 11 dialysis clinics in Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, under a public-private partnership program. The screening employed the HCV RNA PCR method, targeting compliant patients below 60 years of age, without comorbidities, and adhering to at least two dialysis sessions per week for three months. Patients found to be carriers of the virus were treated with a combination of Sofosbuvir and Velpatisivir for 12 weeks, with HCV RNA levels assessed post-treatment to determine viral remission.
The study revealed a Hepatitis C prevalence ranging from 2% to 21% across the 11 centers, 114 patients tested positive for the Hepatitis C virus using the HCV Ig M ELISA method. Of these, 94 patients met the inclusion criteria, and 85 consented to participate. Patients had an average age of 45 years, with 80% males and 20% females. All patients were using an arteriovenous fistula access, with an average haemodialysis frequency of 2.5 sessions per week.
Out of the 85 participants, 37 patients turned out to be HCV RNA PCR negative. This shows that HCV RNA should always be preferred while testing for Hepatitis C. Among the 48 HCV RNA positive patients, 38 completed the treatment regimen, with 33 achieving viral remission.
This was truly a win-win for all stakeholders. The patients benefitted the most as they were successfully treated without any out-of-pocket expense and can now hope to have better outcomes as Hepatitis C infection is known to adversely impact survival and other outcomes. The Government benefitted as successful treatment would lead to lower healthcare costs for these patients. The company also benefitted as the cost of treating Hepatitis C positive patients is higher than that to treat those not infected with this virus.
Dr. Suresh Sankar, Senior Vice President, Clinical Affairs at NephroPlus, commented, “This ground breaking program by NephroPlus demonstrates that proactive HCV RNA testing and treatment not only addresses false positivity but also reduces the disease burden and infection risk within dialysis units. The initiative has proven to improve individual patient prognosis and offer cost-effective solutions for the health system. NephroPlus’s commitment to quality care and innovative health solutions continues to set benchmarks in the dialysis industry, paving the way for better health outcomes in low-resource settings.”
6, Sep 2024
IIM Kashipur’s Parivartan Hosts Successful Blood Donation Drive
Kashipur, 06th September 2024: On Saturday, August 31, IIM Kashipur’s social responsibility cell, Parivartan, in collaboration with Parivartan “The Change” NGO, successfully organized a blood donation drive on campus. The event exemplified the cell’s ongoing commitment to fostering societal well-being through health, environmental, and educational initiatives. With a strong turnout of over 80 participants, including students, teaching staff, and non-teaching staff, the event underscored the importance of social responsibility within the IIM Kashipur community.
Parivartan,the social responsibility cell, known for its relentless efforts to improve societal conditions, once again highlighted the power of collaboration by partnering with Parivartan “The Change” NGO for this significant event. The drive was graced by the presence of Dr. Vivek Roy, Chairperson of Student Affairs, and Mr. Nitish Pant from the Student Affairs office, further emphasizing the institution’s dedication to social causes.
The participants, driven by a collective sense of purpose, contributed to the success of the drive, which aimed to raise awareness about the critical need for blood donations and the impact such initiatives can have on society.
The social responsibility cell has always believed in the concept of ‘sharing as giving’ and strives to instill this value within the campus community. Through this blood donation drive, they not only provided a platform for students and staff to contribute but also educated them on the importance of giving back to the community.
The success of the blood donation drive at IIM Kashipur reflects the strength of community spirit and the deep-rooted sense of social responsibility among its members. Parivartan’s ongoing initiatives continue to inspire and mobilize individuals towards meaningful action, demonstrating that through collaboration and shared effort, significant societal impact can be achieved. The drive serves as a reminder of the power of giving and the importance of contributing to the well-being of others.
6, Sep 2024
Alyve Health on India and Singapore signing pact for healthcare cooperation
By – Shashank Avadhani, CEO of Alyve Health, India’s fastest-growing Health-Tech platform
The recent agreement between India and Singapore marks a significant step in healthcare collaboration in India. We at Alyve Health commend the MoU signed by Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda, which focuses on critical areas such as disease surveillance, maternal and child health, and the prevention of communicable and non-communicable diseases.
This partnership is not just a response to current health challenges; it is a strategic initiative aimed at building a resilient healthcare ecosystem capable of adapting to future needs. Improving maternal health and nutrition for children is essential, as nearly 35% of Indian children under five are stunted due to malnutrition. Access to innovative healthcare solutions can significantly bolster nutritional interventions and maternal care programs, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for mothers and children alike.
We recognize the importance of this collaboration in fortifying public health systems and enhancing patient outcomes. By leveraging Singapore’s advanced healthcare technology and best practices, we can enhance healthcare delivery in India, particularly in underserved rural areas. Alyve Health is committed to leveraging this partnership to meet the evolving health demands of our communities, contributing to a healthier future for all.
4, Sep 2024
TheHealthSite.com reveals easy fitness alternatives for busy lifestyles
Finding time for the gym can be a significant challenge, especially for those juggling a demanding job and other responsibilities. The traditional notion of fitness often revolves around dedicating specific hours to exercise in a gym setting, which can feel overwhelming for many. However, maintaining physical fitness doesn’t always require such a structured approach.
Everyday activities that are already part of your routine can provide substantial health benefits, acting as substitutes for a formal workout. TheHealthSite.com, one of the digital assets of IndiaDotcom Digital Private Limited, highlights five such activities that can keep you physically engaged and offer similar advantages to regular gym sessions.
Cycling is one of the most effective alternatives to a conventional workout. As per TheHealthSite.com, cycling is an excellent cardiovascular exercise that strengthens your bones and muscles while also enhancing your mood by releasing endorphins and dopamine. Unlike running on a treadmill, cycling can easily be incorporated into your daily life, such as by commuting to work on a bike. This not only saves time but also contributes significantly to your fitness goals. Similarly, walking is another simple yet potent activity that can bring about remarkable health benefits. Walking aids in improving bone density, boosting stamina, facilitating weight loss, and supporting heart health. Whether it’s walking to your office or taking a stroll after meals, incorporating walking into your daily routine can lead to long-term health improvements.
Other activities like climbing stairs, doing household chores, and dancing offer practical ways to stay physically active without needing to carve out extra time for the gym. TheHealthSite.com emphasizes that climbing stairs is a powerful exercise that boosts respiratory function, supports heart health, and keeps you energized throughout the day. Opting for the stairs instead of the elevator is a small change that can make a big difference. Household chores, often overlooked as a form of exercise, keep you physically engaged and contribute to overall fitness. Activities such as cleaning, gardening, and even washing dishes involve physical exertion that can help maintain your health. Dancing, another enjoyable activity, combines fun with exercise, helping with weight loss, improving cardiovascular health, and lifting your spirits. By incorporating these activities into your daily routine, as recommended by TheHealthSite.com, you can achieve the physical benefits of a workout without the need for a traditional gym session, making fitness more accessible and manageable for those with busy schedules.
4, Sep 2024
Clinical Experience During Med School: Why It’s Important
Dr. Robert Grant, Senior Associate Dean of Clinical Studies at St. George’s University School of Medicine, Grenada, West Indies
In the dynamic field of healthcare, the real test of a medical student’s proficiency lies not just in theoretical knowledge, but in the application of this knowledge through clinical exposure. Clinical experience forms the core of medical education, bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world patient care. The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) reports that physicians, nurses, and students in the health profession are increasingly looking for hands-on training. Experts note that this reflects a shift in health education from lecture-based learning to more experiential opportunities to better develop hands-on skills, real-world problem-solving, and interprofessional teamwork.
The Crucial Role of Clinical Rotations
As educators and healthcare leaders, investing in clinical education ensures that the upcoming generation of physicians are equipped to tackle the intricate problems of modern healthcare. This commitment means more than just financial support; it also involves building challenging curricula, setting up extensive clinical training programs, and creating an environment that encourages experiential, practical learning. This holistic approach to medical training ultimately leads to improved patient outcomes, advancements in medical research, and a more adaptable and resilient healthcare system. Following are the importance of clinical education in the medical field.
Theoretical Knowledge: Students study medical concepts and theories in the classroom. Whereas patient interactions, diagnostic reasoning, and treatment planning bring these concepts to life, they are most evident in clinical settings. This hands-on application enhances understanding and retention of medical knowledge.
Develop Clinical Skills: Medical professionals can mentor students during clinical rotations while they hone critical clinical skills. Becoming a skilled and compassionate healthcare worker requires these core qualities.
Understanding Patient-Centered Care: Clinical rotations highlight the significance of patient-centered care, which extends beyond medical procedures. Students gain empathy, excellent communication skills, and respect for the autonomy of their patients—elements that are essential for building trust and collaboration in healthcare relationships.
Address Complex Healthcare Systems: Healthcare delivery involves navigating intricate systems and interdisciplinary teamwork. Students learn about the dynamics of interdisciplinary care teams, ethics, and healthcare administration through clinical rotations.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Clinical experience extends far beyond academic learning, shaping the holistic development of medical students. Through clinical rotations, students undergo profound professional identity formation as they witness first-hand duties and difficulties that come with practising medicine. These experiences inculcate values of integrity, accountability, and ongoing learning, preparing them comprehensively for their future roles as physicians.
In addition, clinical rotations provide invaluable exposure to diverse specialties ranging from pediatrics, surgery, and beyond. Students get the opportunity to encounter a wide spectrum of patient demographics and healthcare environments, this in turn allows them to explore their personal interests and career goals. This diversity not only broadens their perspectives but also cultivates cultural competence and adaptability necessary for modern healthcare practice. SGU’s med students can complete their training at one of more than 75 hospital sites and clinical centers in the United States or United Kingdom. Students’ competitiveness is increased by the strong clinical foundations they gain throughout rotations, which also ensure that they are ready to tackle the requirements of residency applications and further medical education.
The Future of Clinical Education
As medical education progresses, integrating innovative approaches into clinical rotations is becoming increasingly crucial. Using technology to its full potential, including telemedicine, digital health platforms, and virtual simulations, enhances clinical teaching by giving students immersive experiences that ensure they are ready for changing healthcare practices. In addition, clinical rotations in global health and underprivileged communities are essential for increasing cultural competency and advancing health equity, which is a cornerstone of contemporary medical education. Effective mentorship and guidance during clinical rotations are crucial in nurturing students’ professional growth, offering guidance, constructive feedback, and mentorship that enhance their clinical skills and prepare them for future medical practice.
4, Sep 2024
Understanding and Managing PCOS in Teenage Girls: A Guide to Effective Solutions
-Dr. Sowparnika S N, Consultant – Reproductive Medicine, Milann Fertility Center, Bengaluru
PCOS diagnoses have surged among younger individuals, yet awareness remains low despite its prevalence as the most common female endocrine disorder and a leading cause of infertility. Affecting 6-26% of women globally and 3.7-22.5% in India, PCOS is characterized by chronic anovulation, irregular periods, hirsutism, and weight gain. Although the terms PCOS and PCOD are more recognized today, many still fail to grasp the condition’s severity or recognize its symptoms, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Understanding and managing one’s body with a health-conscious lifestyle is crucial.
PCOS and the Role of Androgens in Hormonal Imbalance
An overabundance of androgens—a class of hormones linked to masculine features and reproductive processes, though they are also present in smaller amounts in females—are produced by the ovaries in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder. Unequal menstrual cycles, abnormal ovulation, and missed periods can all be caused by this hormonal imbalance. Even though anovulation, or the absence of ovulation, can cause tiny follicular cysts to form on the ovaries, anovulation alone does not require the appearance of these cysts to diagnose PCOS.
PCOS is a major cause of infertility in women and AFAB individuals, raising the risk of other health issues. Symptoms usually start around puberty but may not show until the late teens or early 20s and can change over time.
Leading Cause of Infertility and Its Varied Symptoms
PCOS presents with a range of symptoms, including irregular periods, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), persistent acne, and difficulty maintaining a healthy weight, with 40% to 80% of affected individuals experiencing obesity. Skin darkening, particularly in areas like the neck, armpits, and groin, is also common, along with the appearance of ovarian cysts visible on ultrasound. Other signs include skin tags, thinning hair or balding, and infertility due to irregular ovulation. It’s possible to have PCOS without noticeable symptoms, and some may only discover the condition when facing challenges with conception or unexplained weight gain. Mild cases may have symptoms that are subtle and easily overlooked.
The Complex Causes of PCOS
The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but genetics, obesity, and other factors likely play a role. High androgen levels and insulin resistance, common in PCOS, disrupt ovulation and may lead to elevated blood glucose and diabetes. Low-grade inflammation is also common in PCOS. While it can increase the risk of pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes and preterm birth, most individuals with PCOS can still achieve successful pregnancies.
Early Detection and Lifestyle Management for Effective PCOS Treatment
Many individuals remain unaware of PCOS in its early stages, leading to untreated symptoms. It’s crucial to consult a gynecologist if symptoms appear for proper diagnosis and treatment.
· Lifestyle Management: PCOS can often be managed with lifestyle changes, such as healthier eating, reduced calorie intake, and regular exercise.
· Dietary Tips: Focus on a low-carb, protein-rich diet like the Atkins diet, stay hydrated, and maintain regular meal times.
· Physical Activity: Engage in regular exercise like sports, aerobics, and fitness programs to maintain physical fitness, build muscle, and manage weight.
· Mental and Sleep Health: Practice yoga, and meditation, and maintain a proper sleep schedule (6-8 hours) for better mental health.
· Medical Treatment: Follow prescribed treatments, such as hormonal therapy for cycle regularization and diabetic medications for metabolic health, as needed for symptom management.
· Stress Management: Reduce stress to control cortisol and insulin levels.
· Diet Adjustments: Opt for healthier food choices, avoiding refined flour, high sugar, processed, or packaged foods. Some may benefit from gluten- and dairy-free diets to reduce inflammation and manage weight.
Mental Health, Self-Esteem, and The Importance of Timely Medical Consultation
PCOS can significantly impact self-esteem due to the physical changes and health issues it causes. Symptoms can vary from person to person, but the underlying problem remains consistent. It’s important to take preventive measures to reduce the severity of symptoms and support emotional health. Starting with small, manageable changes can lead to effective results. After diagnosis, consult a gynecologist for medications that can regulate the menstrual cycle and control excess hair growth or acne by managing androgen levels. If these hormonal treatments are ineffective, a dermatologist may offer further solutions.
Addressing anxiety or depression is also crucial. Speaking with a therapist and creating a supportive environment can help build confidence and improve mental well-being. Lastly, many women, despite recognizing the signs of PCOS, may self-medicate or delay seeking treatment, which can lead to future health risks. It’s essential to consult a gynecologist promptly upon noticing symptoms to ensure timely and effective treatment.
