Category Archives: Health

Apollo Hospitals to Host ‘Global Voices One Vision’ International Health Dialogue 2026 in Hyderabad

Global Voices One Vision’  International Health Dialogue 2026 by Apollo Hospitals to be held in Hyderabad on January 30–31, 2026

Ahmedabad, 14 October, 2025: Apollo Hospitals will host the 2026 edition of International Health Dialogue (IHD), one of the world’s leading platforms advancing patient safety, healthcare innovation, and system transformation, on January 30–31, 2026, in Hyderabad, India. The theme for IHD 2026, ‘Global Voices. One Vision’, reflects a shared commitment to align ideas, innovations, and leadership toward a common goal – building resilient, patient-centric, and technology-enabled healthcare systems. The program this year will focus on three defining dimensions: leadership-driven safety models, human-centered design, digital transformation, and system-wide excellence in hospital operations, patient experience and clinical outcomes.

Dr. Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals Group said “Over the years, the International Health Dialogue has evolved into a dynamic global platform where clinicians, innovators, policymakers, and evangelists converge to shape the next era of healthcare. The Hyderabad edition builds on this vision — bringing together the power of AI, data, and digital ecosystems with the timeless values of empathy and collaboration. At its heart, IHD represents a shared global commitment to make healthcare more predictive, sustainable, and inclusive, where every innovation serves humanity and every partnership drives progress toward a healthier planet.”

International Health Dialogue 2026 integrates four defining conferences and learning streams under a single umbrella:

1. IPSC – International Patient Safety Conference discusses how proactive practices and healthcare systems can improve patient safety. 
2. HOPE – Healthcare Operations & Patient Experience Conference focuses on operational excellence by integrating efficiency, empathy, and innovation to enhance every touchpoint of the patient journey.
3. THIT – Transforming Healthcare with IT Conference brings together healthcare and IT leaders from around the world to share insights, best practices, and the latest advancements in the industry.  
4. CLINOVATE – Clinical CME Series on Oncology, Cardiology, Women’s Health, Longevity and Laboratory Medicine will offer clinicians and researchers access to high-impact, practice-focused learning led by renowned experts from India and around the world. 

The International Health Dialogue 2026 will see an extraordinary gathering of global health visionaries and changemakers. Leading this exchange of ideas will be Dr. Jonathan Perlin, President and CEO of The Joint Commission Enterprise; Dr. Carsten Engel, CEO of ISQua; and Dr. Dean Ho, Head of the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the National University of Singapore. Joining them will be Dr. Atul Mohan Kochhar, CEO of NABH; Dr. Neelam Dhingra, Vice President and Chief Patient Safety Officer at Joint Commission International; and Dr. Eyal Zimlichman, Chief Innovation, Transformation and AI Officer at Sheba Medical Center, and Founding Director of ARC, Israel, Christian Schuhmacher, Founder and Managing Director of Swiss Global Advisory, Dubai, and Eric Langshur, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Abundant Venture Partners. Together, they will bring a wealth of global perspectives to reimagine the future of healthcare — powered by data, empathy, and shared purpose.

This year’s conference will feature Safe-A-Thon  a collaborative, solution-building challenge designed to spark innovation in patient safety to tackle real-world safety problems with smart, scalable, and cost-effective solutions. The conference will also witnss the launch of THNX (Technology & Healthcare Network eXchange) – India’s first digital health startup community that will feature pitch days, funding opportunities, and investor interactions.

Over the years, the International Health Dialogue has created a vibrant exchange between public health leaders, technology innovators, clinicians, and patient advocates. The 2026 edition in Hyderabad will continue this legacy through plenary discussions, innovation showcases, technology demonstrations, and global networking forums, offering participants an immersive experience in thought leadership and practical innovation.

Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar’s Taiwan Visit: Awakening the Eastern Spirit Through Himalayan Science

13th October, 2025 – The recent visit of Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar to Taiwan marked a historic confluence between the ancient Himalayan Science of Consciousness and the technological brilliance of Northeast Asia.

In this sacred exchange, Grand Master Akshar unveiled a new paradigm — one where metaphysical wisdom harmonizes with modern innovation, illuminating the path toward conscious evolution.

Rediscovering the Himalayas Within

Addressing seekers and professionals in Taiwan, Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar shared profound insights on the deeper meaning of Yoga — guiding all to realize that the true ascent unfolds through higher states of consciousness.

“Across the world, people practice yoga, yet peace continues to remain a distant experience.

The essence of transformation lies in returning to the ancient Himalayan processes and expressing them in a way that resonates with the modern mind.”

He explained that the Himalayas symbolize the highest state of awareness, a sacred inner summit that every soul strives to reach.

In an age of constant movement and digital connection, the journey toward the Himalayas is a journey toward inner silence, balance, and harmony.

Why North-Eastern Asian Nations Resonates with Himalayan Wisdom

Northeast Asian nations such as Taiwan, Japan, China, South Korea, and Hong Kong stand at the forefront of global innovation. Yet, amid remarkable progress, there exists a subtle yearning — a collective quest for peace, purpose, and deeper understanding.

Their cultural values of discipline, refinement, and respect for precision naturally align with the Himalayan approach — a science rooted in simplicity, awareness, and experiential mastery.

Unlike rigid spiritual systems, the Science of the Siddhas embraces evolution. It does not reject technology but guides seekers on how to live with it consciously.

As Grand Master Akshar explained:

“We shouldn’t fear technology or AI. They are not the problem — unconscious use is.

Spirituality and technology can evolve together when guided by awareness.”

This message deeply resonated with Taiwan’s innovators, particularly those engaged in AI, robotics, and scientific research. They realized that the true purpose of technology is not dependency — but human evolution itself.

Bridging Metaphysics and Modern Science

During his sessions, Siddhaa Akshar decoded ancient yogic and meditative practices, such as Bhramari Pranayama, through the lens of modern science and Himalayan metaphysics.

He demonstrated how each breath, sound, and gesture activates intricate energy circuits within the human system — a precise interplay of geometry, sound frequency, neural pathways, and energy channels.

Beyond the physical, he introduced participants to concepts like wormholes, time dilation, and the fluidity of consciousness, showing how advanced yogic practices can influence perception of time and space. Through these exercises, participants learned to navigate inner dimensions, accessing accelerated states of awareness and expanded consciousness.

By translating ancient wisdom into the language of energy mechanics, quantum principles, and consciousness science, Siddhaa Akshar empowered participants to experience divinity not as a mystical abstraction, but as a living, measurable phenomenon of the mind, body, and universe.

Evolving Beyond: Human to Superhuman Transformation

The Taiwan visit left participants with a profound and transformative insight:

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

Through the Himalayan Science of Consciousness, Grand Master Akshar demonstrated that enlightenment is not a miracle but an evolutionary process — achievable through disciplined training of the mind, breath, and energy systems.

When inner technology (Prana, Mind, Sound) merges with outer technology (AI, Communication, Science), a new civilization emerges — one where peace and progress coexist.

Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar’s journey to Taiwan was a transmission of energy and awareness.

A reminder that the wisdom of the Himalayas is not confined to the past, but a living science guiding humanity toward a conscious, harmonious future.

As his message echoed through the mountains and cities of Northeast Asia, a new awakening began — where the seekers of technology are transforming into seekers of truth.

Your Mental Health, Unmuted 6 Audiobooks to Listen to this Mental Health Week

India, 13th oct 2025: Following Mental Health Week, it is time to pause and reflect on the parts of ourselves that truly matter, and to prioritise our mental well-being. These audiobooks, which are available on Audible, offer honest, relatable, and practical ways to approach mental health, while emphasising that we all have our struggles with emotions that can feel overwhelming. The audiobooks offer small, consistent habits that can make a big difference. Whether it’s navigating anxiety, depression, or simply learning to understand and care for our minds, these stories and strategies open up conversations we all need to have. 

I’ve Never Been (Un)Happier 

Written by Shaheen Bhatt; Narrated by Aishwarya Singh

In I’ve Never Been (Un)Happier, Shaheen Bhatt opens up about her silent struggle with clinical depression, which she had lived with for years before being diagnosed at the age of eighteen. She gives listeners a raw glimpse into the internal pain, self-doubt, despair, loneliness, and the constant distrust of her surroundings that she felt while showing everyone a “happy mask” in her everyday life. Through diary entries, reflections, and personal stories, she charts her journey towards accepting her mental health struggles and seeking help. Ultimately, this memoir serves as a larger motivation to normalise the conversations around depression, with Bhatt also providing reassurance about the pain being legitimate. She reminds listeners that recovery is not linear and that no one should suffer in silence. 

11 Rules for Life

Written and narrated by Chetan Bhagat

Chetan Bhagat addresses young adults directly in 11 Rules of Life and discusses navigating the messy, complicated yet exciting journey of growing up. He mixes personal anecdotes and examples of both failure and success to demonstrate how success is not magic but simply a matter of building healthier habits, taking responsibility, and being honest with yourself. From managing your health and emotions to nurturing real relationships and owning your mistakes, each “rule” is a practical nudge towards being more purposeful in your lives. This book feels like a conversation with a friend who has been there, reminding you that small and consistent choices today can shape the life you want tomorrow. 

Anxiety

Written by Sonali Gupta; Narrated by Monaz Ranina

In Anxiety, clinical psychologist Sonali Gupta takes listeners on a compassionate and grounded journey into what anxiety really feels like, especially for young Indians. She peels back the layers of how social media, workplace stress, cultural expectations like marriage and family pressure, and uncertain economic times all help brew it. Using real case studies, she helps listeners recognise that what they feel is not a mundane everyday worry but something deeper. She also shares easy, practical tools for coping with anxiety, like breathing exercises, boundary-setting, practicing self-kindness, and knowing when it’s time to seek help. Ultimately, the book says: you are not alone, anxiety is not a flaw, and while sometimes it may always be part of your life, you can learn to live with it rather than under its power. 

Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess

Written and narrated by Caroline Leaf

In her book, Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess, Dr. Caroline Leaf gently guides readers through the often messy and easily overwhelming process of understanding their own thoughts. She demonstrates why the mental clutter we carry, including anxiety, doubts, and habitual patterns of negative behaviour, is not a personal failing, but something we can effectively change. She provides multiple exercises using her five-step “Neurocyle” that teaches practical ways to notice, reflect upon, and replace harmful ways of thinking so that we can create space within ourselves for calmness, clarity, and emotional resilience. This book reads like a supportive mentor sitting with you to remind you that even your cluttered mind can be tidied and that small, consistent steps can lead to peace of mind longterm.

Get Out of Your Mind & Into Your Life

Written by Spencer Smith and Steven C. Hayes; Narrated by Paul Boehmer

In Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life, Dr. Steven Hayes compassionately guides listeners on how struggling with your thoughts or trying to push pain away will often keep you stuck. Instead, he offers listeners his Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach, which is both a practical way to observe your thoughts and accept difficult emotions, to take committed steps towards a direction that is most important to you. The book offers numerous exercises to assist you with being aligned with your values and to step away from living a life controlled by fear and doubt. The audiobook has the feel of a gentle guide, reminding people that life does not have to be perfect to be meaningful and that one can find purpose, joy, and authenticity amidst challenges. 

Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?

Written and narrated by Julie Smith

Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before? authored by Dr. Julie Smith is akin to having a family therapist assist you when you’re traversing through life’s mental hurdles. The book is packed with practical ways to manage anxiety, low moods, self-doubt, and motivation struggles in simple and actionable ways. Smith emphasizes that small, everyday habits like mindfulness, journaling, and self-awareness can enhance one’s emotional well-being. The audiobook feels approachable and relatable while giving readers tools they can actually use, rather than abstract advice. It is a gentle, hands-on roadmap for taking care of one’s mental health. 

Manipal Hospital EM Bypass Marks World Mental Health Day Highlighting Elderly Care

Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass, commemorates World Mental Health Day with a focus on elderly emotional care and connection

Mumbai / Kolkata, 11th October 2025: On World Mental Health Day, Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass, conducted a thought-provoking panel discussion on emotional well-being, inner peace, and meaningful connection for the elderly community. The interactive session was moderated by Dr. Kunal Sarkar, Director – Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery, Manipal Hospital, Mukundapur Cluster and Ms. Sohini Saha, Consultant- Psychologist, Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass, in the presence of other eminent doctors like Dr. Abir Mukherjee, Consultant  Psychiatry, Manipal Hospital, Mukundapur; Dr. Arijit Dutta Chowdhury, Consultant  Psychiatry, Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass and Dr. Anuttama Banerjee, Consultant- Psychologist, Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass. The session was designed to highlight the emotional and psychological struggles of elderly citizens in the contemporary, fast-paced world and to foster dialogue around developing empathy, mindfulness, and social connection in later life.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Abir Mukherjee shared, “With improved healthcare and a longer life expectancy, India is witnessing a growing elderly population, a positive sign of progress, yet one that brings with it newer challenges. Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment, dementia are highly prevalent among the elderly, often intensified by social isolation, stigma, nuclear family structures and economic dependence. Lack of awareness and timely intervention further worsens the situation. Additionally, there is a dearth of professional support, failure to adequately address care giver’s burden. It is essential that we, as a society, work collectively to create an environment of empathy, early recognition, and support so that our elderly can age with emotional well-being, dignity, and purpose.”

While talking about mental health awareness, Dr. Arijit Dutta Chowdhury stated, “With the advancement of medical science, human life expectancy has increased significantly, leading to a growing number of people in the geriatric age group. However, this also brings with it a rise in age-related mental health challenges such as dementia, depression, and anxiety. Early diagnosis and timely intervention through appropriate medication and psychotherapy, wherever necessary, play a crucial role in improving the quality of life and emotional well-being of elderly individuals.”

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Anuttama Banerjee opined, “Old age is not an illness but an inevitable phase of life, unique to everyone. As caregivers, our role is to create a supportive environment that helps older people embrace this transition with confidence and dignity. Health challenges should be addressed with sensitivity, without over pathologizing or infantilizing them.”

Moderator for the interactive session, Ms. Sohini Saha, stated, “Mental health is a universal right, and we must ensure that our elderly not only receive care and support but also the dignity and emotional well-being they truly deserve. Conversations around mental health should move beyond stigma and silence to empathy and understanding. It is important that families, caregivers, and communities work together to create a safe space where emotional struggles are acknowledged and addressed. True wellness comes not only from physical health but from a balanced state of mind, where one feels valued, heard, and connected.”

24th LalitArpan Festival Showcases Stories of Strength, Spirit & Survival in Delhi

The Annual “LalitArpan Festival” (24th edition) Showcased Stories of Strength, Spirit, and Survival in Delhi

India, 10th october 2025: The Annual LalitArpan Festival (24th edition), held on October 8 and 9, 2025, at the Stein Auditorium, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, left audiences deeply moved and inspired by its powerful theme  “Antah-Shakti: Courage and Hope.” This year, it presented a fascinating fusion of solo and group dance dramas that illuminated real-life stories of strength and inner transformation through the language of Kathak.

The opening evening, October 8, featured “Agnipankh” by Shovana Narayan and Shruti Gupta Chandra, portraying the inspiring lives of real-life stories of three brave, young, and courageous persons- an autistic pianist, a transgender and an acid victim survivor – all of whom are working in the hospitality industry.  The performance was followed by “Kathak” by Nrityashree Alaknanda, a cancer survivor whose expressive movements graced the stage in a solo performance, reflecting the power of the human spirit.

On October 9, “Parkaya” by Akshobhya Bhardwaj from Mumbai presented a deeply personal and artistic Kathak journey that transcends physical limitations and embraces inner transformation through Kathak, while “Rashmirathi” presented by Asavari, Ensemble and choreographed by Guru Shovana Narayan, brought to life the story of Karna, the bold young warrior of the Mahabharata who, despite being abandoned at birth and raised by a charioteer which made him an outcast, became a powerful warrior and remained steadfastly committed to his perceived duty, even in the face of moral dilemma.

The eminent guests who graced the event included Lt. Governor Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena & Smt. Sangita Saxena, Dr KG Suresh, Ms Preeti Aggarwal, Gayatri Prakash,Jyotsna Suri, Odissi Dancer Sharon Lowen, Sunit Tandon, Artist Naresh Kapuria, Ranjana Narayan, Actress Joyoshree Arora, Bharata Natyam Dancer Prathibha Prahlad, and K. Shiva Prasad.

The LalitArpan Festival, the brainchild of Kathak maestro Padmashri Guru Shovana Narayan, Dr. Jyotsna Suri, and the late Ustad Shafaat Ahmed Khan, one of the most eminent tabla players, was envisaged in 2002. It sowed the seeds to provide a platform to young artists as well as to foster confidence and make room in the realm of performing arts by making them participate along with reputed senior artists, which we have strived to do to the best of their ability. Alongside, we envisioned presenting the rasikas, various dimensions of the rich tapestry of classical performing arts through solo and group presentations, dance dramas and ensembles, and so on, to the aficionados. Organized by the dance institution Asavari and its volunteers, this festival has, till date, presented over 100 torchbearers of Indian classical performing arts. 

Paras Health Ranks 4th Nationwide at Times Network India Health Summit 2025

Gurugram, October 10, 2025: At the Times Network India Health Summit 2025, Paras Health has been ranked 4th nationwide in the Multi-Speciality Group of Hospitals category; a prestigious recognition that celebrates the group’s unwavering commitment to delivering world-class medical care and putting patients first across all its hospitals in India. This milestone underscores Paras Health’s rapid and strategic growth, solidifying its standing as one of the most trusted healthcare providers in the country.

Recognized for its strategic expansion, patient-first approach, and focus on clinical excellence, Paras Health sets a benchmark in delivering world-class healthcare across North India. Established in 2006, the group has grown strategically, building a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem based on three core pillars—advanced medical technology, highly skilled clinical talent, and compassionate patient care. Its network spans Gurugram, Panchkula, Patna, Ranchi, Udaipur, Darbhanga, Kanpur, and Srinagar, bridging the urban–rural healthcare divide and bringing tertiary care to underserved regions.

Dr. Dharminder Nagar, Managing Director of Paras Health, commented on the achievement, “This recognition reflects our steadfast commitment to making quality healthcare accessible to all. It is an honour that belongs to every doctor, nurse, and staff member whose dedication drives our mission. At Paras Health, excellence is not just about infrastructure; it is about clinical expertise, compassionate care, and the trust of our patients. Being ranked among the top four hospital groups motivates us to further strengthen our vision of bridging healthcare gaps across India.”

Smt. Anupriya Patel, Hon’ble Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilisers, Government of India, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Her presence underscored the importance of advancing healthcare initiatives nationwide and highlighted the transformative potential of digital technologies in enhancing healthcare delivery across the country.

Mr. Vineet Aggarwal, Group COO, Paras Health, emphasized the operational rigor behind the group’s success and said, “Achieving this milestone is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and teamwork of our entire organization. Our strategy prioritizes clinical governance, operational efficiency, and continuous enhancement of the patient experience. This ranking reinforces our belief that a patient-first approach, combined with operational excellence, is the foundation for sustainable growth and trust.”

Paras Health views this recognition as a milestone, not a destination. The group remains committed to expanding its footprint, strengthening super-specialty departments, and investing in cutting-edge technologies and research, with a clear focus on delivering accessible, high-quality healthcare to all regions of India.

CMRI Hospital hosts Walkathon to Celebrate Patients’ Experience Week

Kolkata, October 10, 2025: The Calcutta Medical Research Institute (CMRI), a unit of CK Birla Hospitals, hosted a special Walkathon to commemorate Patients’ Experience Week 2025. The event celebrated the extraordinary bond between patients, doctors, nurses, and hospital staff — a bond that goes beyond treatment to embody compassion, trust, and hope.

The Walkathon was led by Mr. Sombrata Roy, Unit Head, CK Birla Hospitals – CMRI, Kolkata, and attended by several dignitaries from the Government of West Bengal. The initiative aimed to bring together the extended CMRI family ,  from caregivers and healthcare professionals to those who once battled critical illnesses and emerged stronger.

Adding a deeply emotional touch to the event, many former patients who had once faced life-threatening conditions and lost all hope of survival joined the Walkathon, walking hand-in-hand with their doctors and caregivers. Their presence stood as a powerful symbol of human resilience, medical excellence, and the enduring spirit of healing that CMRI stands for.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sombrata Roy, Unit Head, CK Birla Hospitals CMRI, Kolkata, says, “Patients’ Experience Week is a tribute to the extraordinary journey of healing that unites patients, caregivers, and healthcare teams. This Walkathon is our way of celebrating that bond one that extends beyond hospital walls. Seeing our former patients, some of whom fought the most critical battles of their lives, walking beside their doctors today is the greatest testament to the power of hope, trust, and compassionate care.”

The event, flagged off from the CMRI campus early in the morning, witnessed enthusiastic participation from hundreds of people , including recovered patients, healthcare professionals, and well-wishers — all walking together to celebrate life and the healing journey. The Walkathon reaffirmed CMRI’s commitment to clinical excellence with empathy, where every recovery is not just a medical success but a human story of courage and care.

Aditya Birla Academy and Mpower Promote Youth Mental Health with The Happy Place Festival

Mumbai, October 9th, 2025: In an age dominated by social media validation, online gaming pressures, and digital fatigue, young people are facing unprecedented mental health challenges. According to the National Mental Health Survey of India, nearly 1 in 7 adolescents aged 13–17 years’ experience mental health issues, yet fewer than 10% receive adequate support. Experts warn that the combination of online comparison, academic stress, and emotional isolation has made it critical to begin mental health awareness at the school level—where resilience, empathy, and help-seeking behaviours can be cultivated early.

To encourage open dialogue and build emotional literacy among students, Aditya Birla World Academy (ABWA), in collaboration with Mpower—an initiative of the Aditya Birla Education Trust—hosted”, a “The Happy Place: Inside Out 2.0n inter-school festival designed to normalize conversations around mental health and self-expression.

Held ahead of World Mental Health Day, the festival brought together 212 students from 16 schools across Mumbai and neighbouring regions. Through creative formats including drama, dance, poetry, short film, art, singing, and extempore speech, participants explored this year’s theme, “Inside Out”—an invitation to acknowledge one’s emotions, express them authentically, and find confidence in individuality.

“The Happy Place is an extension of what we nurture every day at Aditya Birla World Academy — an environment where emotional well-being is valued as much as academic excellence, said Ms. Shalini John, Principal, Aditya Birla World Academy. Through initiatives like The Happy Place, students engage creatively — through dance, drama, poetry, and other expressive forms — to explore their emotions and connect meaningfully with one another. This integration has fostered a culture where children feel safe to express themselves, support their peers, and approach challenges with empathy and resilience. The theme Inside Out 2.0 – An Upgrade on Emotional Awareness encouraged students to look within with honesty and authenticity. It helped us nurture not just confident and capable individuals, but a compassionate community where mental well-being is embraced as a shared priority. The Happy Place was created to give our students exactly that space — to celebrate expression, empathy, and emotional strength.”

“Children today are growing up in a world where digital comparison and constant connectivity often shape their sense of self,” said Ms Parveen Shaikh, President, Mpower “Our Minds Matter curriculum has shown that when mental health education begins early, it changes everything — over 80% of students report better stress management, greater confidence, and stronger academic engagement. Initiatives like The Happy Place build on that foundation by taking emotional learning beyond the classroom. They encourage students to speak openly, express creatively, and understand that mental health is not a taboo but a shared responsibility. The earlier we start these conversations, the more resilient and empathetic our young people will become.”

The interschool festival, conceptualized and led by ABWA students, saw remarkable interpretations of the theme. Performances such as “Unmute: The Emotional Reboot” and “Messy Minds, Textured Truths” encouraged participants to translate emotional experiences

into creative expression—turning introspection into art. Judges praised the originality, empathy, and insight reflected across entries.

Among the schools that participated, Bombay International School, JBCN International School, Oshiwara, and RIMS International School, Vashi, engaged enthusiastically throughout the event. Across all activities, students explored their emotions deeply and creatively, showing that conversations about feelings, vulnerability, and resilience can be both meaningful and enjoyable.

The event also aimed to break the stigma surrounding mental health discussions within school environments. By framing emotional well-being as a shared journey rather than a taboo topic, The Happy Place exemplified how schools can act as catalysts for cultural change—helping students develop both self-awareness and empathy.

ABWA and Mpower plan to continue collaborating on youth-focused initiatives that combine creativity with emotional education, reinforcing the message that mental health is as vital as academic success.

Apollo Cancer Centres Raises Awareness on Hereditary Cancer

Chennai, 8th October 2025: Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC), one of India’s foremost cancer care networks, is leading the charge during Hereditary Cancer Awareness Week to highlight the critical importance of recognizing hereditary cancers. The focus is on to emphasize early detection through genetic testing and proactive screening, aiming to educate families, empower high-risk individuals, and underscore how timely intervention can save lives.

Hereditary cancers arise from inherited gene mutations passed from parents to children, which increase, but do not confirm, the risk of developing cancer. These mutations disrupt genes responsible for cell growth, repair, and tumour suppression. Globally, hereditary cancers account for 5–10% of all cancers (PMC.NCBI), while most are caused by lifestyle, environmental factors, or random mutations. Common hereditary cancer syndromes include Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC), Lynch syndrome, and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis.

In India, breast cancer accounted for 1,78,361 cases and ovarian cancer for 45,701 cases in 2020 (Globocan Report). Over 10% of these are linked to BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, with prevalence across Indian studies ranging from 2.9% to 28% (IJMIO). Other gene mutations linked to HBOC remain underreported. Lynch syndrome, which causes 2–3% of colorectal cancers (ScienceDirect), is also associated with elevated risks of cancers in the endometrium, stomach, pancreas, ovary, urinary tract, and more. Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) is a rare inherited condition causing numerous colon polyps and a near-certain risk of colorectal cancer by age 40, with limited data available in India (NCBI).

Against this backdrop, ACC Chennai recently treated a remarkable case of familial clustering where four members of a single family from Guwahati, spanning two generations, were diagnosed with cancers linked to Lynch syndrome. The mother, Mrs. Namita Dey, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at 50 years and treated in 2011, while her daughter, Mrs. Deepa Ghosh, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at 26 years and treated in 2012. More recently, her other two children, Mrs. Shikha Sarkar and Mr. Mathura Nath Dey, both diagnosed at 40 years, were treated in 2024 for right colon cancer. All four are currently doing well, underscoring how timely intervention and surgical care can change treatment outcomes to lead a better-quality life.

Speaking about the significance of this case, Dr. Venkat P, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre, Chennai, said, “These cases clearly demonstrate that cancer is not always sporadic—it can often be inherited and run through families across generations. When multiple family members are affected, it is a strong signal that genetic factors may be at play. In such high-risk families, genetic counselling and proactive screening become invaluable tools. They not only help us identify individuals who may be predisposed but also enable us to take preventive or early treatment measures, offering patients the best chance of cure, survival, and improved quality of life.”

Adding perspective, Dr. Priya Kapoor, Consultant  Surgical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre, Chennai, noted, “Families with multiple cases of colorectal, ovarian, or endometrial cancers must take their medical history seriously and not dismiss these patterns as coincidence. Such clustering is often the first indication of an inherited cancer syndrome. Genetic testing becomes the essential first step in identifying those at risk, followed by structured surveillance plans. Regular colonoscopies, timely removal of polyps, and in some cases even preventive surgeries, allow us to intervene before cancers fully develop—helping save lives and reducing the emotional and physical toll on families.”

The Patient said, “When cancer struck not just one but four of us in our family, it felt overwhelming and frightening. But our Doctors at Apollo Cancer Centres, helped us, not just with treatment, but guidance and compassion at every step. Today, we are all doing well, and we carry hope instead of fear. It has shown me that even when cancer runs in families, timely care can truly change the story.”

Reinforcing ACC’s commitment, Mr. Harshad Reddy, Director, Group Oncology & International, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd, said, “At Apollo Cancer Centres, our commitment goes far beyond offering advanced treatment—we see it as our responsibility to lead awareness and education on cancers that can be inherited. Too often, families don’t realize that cancer can run in their genes until multiple members are affected. Awareness, when combined with timely action, is the strongest weapon to win over cancer.”

The event highlighted ACC’s expertise in hereditary cancers, featuring insights from the treating oncologists and showcasing real-life patient cases. Through these efforts, ACC continues to reinforce its leadership in hereditary cancer education, raising awareness about genetic risk, early detection, and proactive care, and demonstrating its commitment to improving patient outcomes across India.

Wacoal India Reaffirms Commitment to Breast Cancer Awareness with CPAA in 4th Edition of #WacoalKnowsBreast

Wacoal India Reaffirms its commitment to Breast Cancer Awareness with CPAA in the 4th Edition of #WacoalKnowsBreast Initiative

India, 7th October 2025: Wacoal, the premium lingerie brand from Japan, continues its enduring commitment to breast cancer awareness through the 4th edition of its flagship initiative, #WacoalKnowsBreast, in partnership with the Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA). CPAA is a renowned non-profit organization dedicated to ‘Total Management of Cancer’, which encompasses Awareness, Early Detection, Support for treatment, Guidance and Counseling, Rehabilitation, Research Studies and Advocacy. 

This year, the initiative is amplified through the #WacoalKnowsBreast social media campaign designed to encourage regular self-checks, debunk myths, and make conversations around breast health more accessible for women across India. 

As part of the initiative, a portion of proceeds from every bra purchased in October will go towards supporting CPAA’s breast cancer programs. To further symbolize their commitment, Wacoal India will once again spotlight the 3-finger salute, a symbolic gesture where one places their right hand on their left chest and forms the number 3 with their fingers. This represents a self-check test that individuals can perform to check their breasts for lumps while also embodying the alphabet ‘W’ for Wacoal. 

Ms. Pooja Merani, COO-Wacoal India, expressed her thoughts on the initiative, stating, “Breast cancer is one of the most pressing health concerns for women today, but the power of early detection cannot be overstated. At Wacoal, we are committed to going beyond being a lingerie brand, we want to be a partner in women’s well-being. Through this partnership with CPAA and the #WacoalKnowsBreast campaign, we aim to not only spread awareness but also ensure that women feel supported in their journey towards health and confidence. We hope to make a considerable impact in this area and make it accessible to all women in need.”

Ms. Alka Bisen, CEO of the Cancer Patients Aid Association shared her perspective on the collaboration with Wacoal: “Breast cancer continues to be one of the most significant health challenges for women, and the key to overcoming it lies in awareness and early detection. Through our partnership with Wacoal, we are able to amplify this message, encourage regular self-checks, and provide timely support to those affected. Together, we want to create an environment where women feel informed, empowered, and unafraid to prioritize their health.”

The social media campaign also addresses a common misconception: that eating healthy and staying active alone can safeguard women from breast cancer. By reinforcing that anyone can be at risk, Wacoal positions the simple 3-finger test as a routine practice that every woman can easily incorporate into her daily life. Through these conversations, Wacoal seeks to break taboos, promote early detection, and inspire women across India to take proactive steps toward health, ultimately leading to healthier futures for women across India.