Category Archives: Health

Young Thalassemia Survivor meets German Lifesaver, Emotions Run High

Mumbai / Bangalore, May 09, 2024: In a heart-warming moment, 17-year-old Chirag, a thalassemia survivor from India, finally met the man who gave him a second chance at life – his stem cell donor, Roman Simnizki from Germany. Chirag battled thalassemia, a genetic blood disorder that significantly impacts patients’ quality of life. For most of his childhood, Chirag had to endure fatigue and other health complications along with regular blood transfusions.

For ten years, his family tirelessly searched for an unrelated donor. Their efforts finally yielded results in 2016 when a perfect match was found – Roman, a 29-year-old from Münsingen, Germany, through the DKMS database.

“Meeting Roman was an overwhelming experience,” shared Chirag. “Words cannot express how thankful I am for his selfless act. He didn’t just donate stem cells; he gave me a future.”

Roman, who travelled to India to meet Chirag, echoed the sentiment. “There’s no greater joy than knowing you’ve helped someone in need. Seeing Chirag healthy and full of life is the biggest reward.”

The emotional meeting, filled with gratitude and joy, marked the culmination of a life-changing journey for Chirag and Roman. Chirag, now free from the limitations of thalassemia, can dream of a bright future. Roman’s act of altruism, a simple cheek swab, and later blood stem cell donation, has demonstrably changed a life across continents. Chirag’s parents, who witnessed their son’s struggle and eventual recovery, expressed their heartfelt appreciation to Roman for his selfless act.

Chirag’s treating physician, Dr Revathi Raj, Paediatric Haematologist, Apollo Hospitals Chennai, said, “There is a significant burden of Thalassemia in our country, as more than 10,000 children are born with the disease every year. Beta-thalassemia major is a severe form of the disease that requires regular blood transfusions and, potentially, a stem cell transplant for a cure. I am happy that today Chirag is recovered and a bright future awaits him. I hope more people like Roman register as potential stem cell donors so more patients can undergo lifesaving stem cell transplants.”

In a stem cell transplantation, healthy blood stem cells from a matching donor are infused into the patient to help resume healthy blood production. The best stem cell transplant outcomes happen when a patient’s human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and the HLA of a potential donor. This is much more complex than matching blood groups. About 30% of patients find an HLA-matched donor within the family; however, the rest, 70 % of the patients, have to look for an “unrelated” donor with matched HLA.

Talking about the DKMS-BMST Thalassemia program, Patrick Paul, CEO of DKMS-BMST, said, “To support Thalassemia patients in India, we have launched the DKMS-BMST Thalassemia program. Under this program, DKMS-BMST collaborates with local NGOs and transplantation clinics to organise camps where pediatric thalassemia patients and their families travel from far places, sometimes from very remote places in India, to give buccal swab samples for HLA typing. Samples from the camps are analysed in the DKMS laboratory based out of Germany and clinical matching reports of the same are provided. In cases where there is no HLA match sibling for a sick child, we also support unrelated donor searches for patients.”

“Donating blood stem cells is a voluntary act of solidarity with a seriously ill person. The availability of matching blood stem cell donors remains a significant challenge for Indian patients in need of life-saving transplants. India has a young population, so it is crucial to encourage more people to register as stem cell donors. Their continued participation in the registry significantly improves the chances of locating matching donors for patients requiring assistance,” said the spokesperson at the event, Dr. Sunil Bhat, Director & Clinical Lead, Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Blood & Marrow Transplantation, Narayana Health.

Chirag’s journey serves as a beacon of hope for thalassemia patients and their families and highlights the impact of the DKMS-BMST Thalassemia program. It emphasises the critical role of organisations like DKMS-BMST in facilitating life-saving transplants and the profound impact of anonymous donors like Roman, who selflessly offer a chance at a healthier future.

To register as a potential stem cell donor, you must be a healthy Indian adult between 18 and 55. When you are ready to register, all you need to do is complete a consent form and swab the inside of your cheeks to collect your tissue cells. Your tissue sample is then sent to the lab to be analyzed for your HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) and listed anonymously on the international search platform for matching stem cell donors.

Rotary Midtown spreads awareness on Cancer; organises road show along Mangalore route

In a bid to tackle the formidable challenge of cancer, Rotary Bangalore Midtown, in collaboration with Rotary District 3191, has embarked on a journey on 19th and 20th April 2024 aimed at spreading awareness and promoting Rotary’s Answer to Cancer Enigma (RACE) program. This initiative, known as the RACE Road Show, seeks to engage with communities and Rotary clubs along the route to Mangalore and back, with the shared goal of combatting cancer through early detection and prevention.

Cancer remains one of the most pressing health concerns globally, affecting millions of lives each year. Recognizing the urgency to address this issue, Rotary Bangalore Midtown has taken proactive steps by introducing the RACE program, which emphasizes the importance of regular cancer screenings as a vital tool in saving lives.

The RACE Road Show symbolizes a collective effort by Rotary members to raise awareness about the significance of early detection and timely intervention in the fight against cancer. Over the course of the journey, members from Rotary Bangalore Midtown and District 3191 will visit approximately 20 Rotary clubs in Ramanagara, Channapatna, Mandya, Mysore and Hassan engaging with fellow Rotarians, community leaders, and the public at large.

The Road Show serves as a platform for sharing information about the RACE program’s objectives, methodologies, and impact. Through interactive sessions and discussions, participants will gain insights into the importance of regular screenings, risk factors associated with different types of cancer, and available resources for support and treatment.

Moreover, the RACE Road Show aims to foster collaboration and synergy among Rotary clubs, leveraging their collective strengths and resources to amplify the reach and impact of cancer awareness and prevention efforts. By building partnerships and mobilizing support at the grassroots level, Rotary members aspire to create a ripple effect that transcends geographical boundaries, ultimately contributing to a significant reduction in cancer-related morbidity and mortality.

Beyond raising awareness, the Road Show also endeavours to inspire action and participation from individuals and communities. Through educational initiatives, advocacy campaigns, and community outreach programs, Rotary members aim to empower people to take proactive steps towards prioritizing their health and well-being.

As the Road Show unfolds, Rotary Bangalore Midtown and District 3191 invite fellow Rotarians, community leaders, healthcare professionals, and concerned citizens to join hands in the fight against cancer. By working together and embracing the spirit of service above self, we can strive towards a future where cancer is no longer a dreaded enigma but a conquerable challenge.

In conclusion, the RACE Road Show represents a testament to Rotary’s commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities affected by cancer. Through collective action, education, and advocacy, we can pave the way towards a healthier, cancer-free world.

IADVL’s Dermatological Disease Awareness Campaign received 9419 pledges

New Delhi, 8th May 2024 – India’s largest organization of dermatologists, the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists, and Leprologists (IADVL), marked a significant milestone by achieving the Guinness World Records title for “MOST PLEDGES IN 24 HOURS TO RAISE DERMATOLOGICAL DISEASE AWARENESS”. The most pledges received in 24 hours were 9,419, and were achieved by IADVL members, online, on 5th-6th May 2024. The objective of this event was to bring together 17,000 doctors from across India, who came together online to lend their support for spreading social awareness about dermatological diseases. Through this awareness campaign, the organization aimed to shed light on the complexities of dermatological conditions and the critical role of qualified professionals in their diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Gulhima Arora, President of IADVL DELHI, said, ‘It fills us with immense pride that IADVL’s Dermatological Disease Awareness Campaign Entered the Guinness World Records. In an age rife with misinformation and amateur advice, the significance of NMC-qualified dermatologists has been of paramount importance. This event underscored our steadfast dedication to elevating awareness of dermatological diseases. Through diverse initiatives, including public awareness campaigns and educational programs, IADVL strove to empower both its members and the public with reliable dermatological knowledge.

The official certificate from the Guinness World Record team will be received shortly.

‘A concerning lack of awareness persists regarding the grave threat to the nation’s health posed by unlicensed medical practitioners. Over the past few decades, the proliferation of such practices has surged, leading to detrimental and unrecognized outcomes in various medical procedures, particularly in dermatological and cosmetology procedures. These unauthorized practices often resulted in severe complications and exacerbated untreated skin conditions,’ said Dr. Himanshu Gupta, Secretary of IADVL Delhi. ‘Our event served as a platform to underscore the invaluable expertise NMC-qualified dermatologists bring to the table and the significance of seeking reliable medical advice.’

To gear up for the Guinness World Record attempt, IADVL meticulously laid out preparations, including a dedicated website crafted to streamline the pledging process for IADVL members, engagement of the Digital Forensics Team to audit online pledges meticulously, and submission of proofs and documentation to solidify their integrity and pursuit, all approved by the Guinness World Record standards.

Established in 1973, IADVL stands as a bastion of expertise and trust in Indian dermatology care. Boasting over 17,410 qualified members including dermatologists, venereologists, and leprologists who are board- certified, IADVL is instrumental in setting standards, disseminating knowledge, and advocating for top-tier dermatological care. Today, IADVL remains resolute in upholding professional standards, ensuring patients receive evidence-based care. Through diverse initiatives such as public awareness campaigns and educational programs, IADVL empowers members and the public alike with dependable dermatological knowledge.

Dr Rohit Batra, Immediate Past President, IADVL Delhi, expresses, ‘IADVL is deeply concerned about the growing menace of unlicensed medical practitioners and its detrimental impact on public health. As advocates for patient safety and quality healthcare standards, IADVL calls for increased regulatory measures and enforcement to curb the proliferation of unlicensed medical practices.

Dr. Sumit Gupta, Vice President of IADVL Delhi, emphasized, “As we embarked on this remarkable journey, IADVL reiterated its dedication to advancing dermatology care, fostering public awareness, and effecting positive change in the lives of those afflicted by dermatological diseases.”

The pledge that the members of IADVL took for the GWR Official Attempt stated, ‘As a proud member of IADVL, I solemnly pledge to preserve the highest standards of professionalism and ethics in my role as a Dermatologist, Venereologist, and Leprologists. With unwavering commitment, I vow to provide empathetic care while fostering community awareness regarding Skin-Hair-Nail health, leprosy, and genital diseases. I commit to unflinching dedication to life-long learning, ensuring the delivery of optimal healthcare for the well-being of all.

UYC Global Online Slogan Writing Contest for International Day of Yoga 2024

Udaan Youth Club (UYC) is a youth-led organization committed to utilizing ICT tools and internet media for social impact. Through online campaigns, Udaan has engaged over one lakh individuals in social awareness initiatives, focusing on topics like lifestyle for the environment and Sustainable Development Goals, contributing to Viksit Bharat India @2047. The organization is currently led by eminent Indian Social Worker SR Aman Kumar from Baghpat, serving as its president.

Udaan is inviting submissions for the UYC Global Online Slogan Writing Contest on International Day of Yoga 2024. People from all corners of the world are invited to participate and contribute to spreading awareness about the importance of Yoga with their creative slogans. These slogans will be published on the official website and social media pages of Udaan.

Craft a powerful and inspiring slogan on the given themes:
Yoga for Women Empowerment
Yoga – The Art and Science of Living
Yoga for Global Unity and Oneness
Yoga for a Healthier Planet
Yoga for Peace and Joy
Your slogan may connect with one or more themes, or it can be totally original as well. Showcase your talent and contribute to the global celebration of inner peace, harmony, and well-being!

Benefits:
All original slogans will be prominently featured on Udaan’s official social media pages and website.
Every participant will receive a personalized participation certificate as a token of appreciation.
Winners will receive an exclusive certificate of merit personally signed by President SR Aman Kumar.
The winning slogans will be showcased in a special Yoga Day video message, where winners will have the opportunity to speak out their slogans.
Eligibility:
This contest is open to everyone, regardless of age, gender, nationality, or other personal attributes.
Slogans can be submitted in either Hindi or English.
All slogans must be original works and free of plagiarism.
Each shortlisted slogan will be published on Udaan’s social media pages within 24 hours of submission.
Winners will be announced based on the engagement their published slogan receives on social media and other given judging criteria.
How to Enter:
Visit the submission link and submit your original slogan along with other required details.

Judging Criteria:
Creativity and Originality
Clarity and Impact of the Message
Engagement on published post
Important Dates:
Entries open: May 5th, 2024
Entries submission deadline: June 18th, 2024
Announcement of winners: June 20th, 2024
Launch of winners’ Yoga Day video message: June 21st, 2024

Manasthali gives a new lease of life to a young man affected by Schizophrenia

New Delhi, 7th May 2024: Manasthali, a renowned mental health organization dedicated to offering innovative and compassionate treatment, has revitalized the life of a 28-year-old schizophrenia patient by providing him with the right support and treatment for his mental health condition. Schizophrenia is a complicated mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide and in India as well. A study in 2022 suggests that 7 per cent of Indians suffering from mental health conditions have schizophrenia in various degrees of severity.

Umesh Sandhu (Name Changed) was diagnosed with schizophrenia after his parents complained of living in his imaginary world and talking strangely, thinking that they were very powerful, rich, or renowned. All these symptoms substantially hampered his capacity to operate independently and establish relationships, hampering the quality of his life.

Manasthali took a holistic approach to mental health care, emphasising personalised treatment regimens based on his specific requirements and circumstances. He was given therapy sessions to improve his coping abilities, handle stress, and question skewed views and beliefs. Umesh also underwent medication management to help him cope with his psychotic episodes and maintain his mood.

“Under the guidance and support of Manasthali’s dedicated and skilled health practitioners, Umesh made remarkable progress in his journey towards recovery. His hallucinations and delusions gradually decreased over time, allowing him to reclaim control of his life. With increased confidence and resilience, Umesh reconnected with his hobbies and interests, restored meaningful relationships with family and friends, and pursued his personal and professional goals with renewed zeal,” said *Dr Jyoti Kapoor, Founder & Director, Manasthali*

Now, Umesh serves as an inspiration to others affected by schizophrenia. His story exemplifies the transformative power of compassionate care, perseverance, and hope in overcoming the challenges of mental illness. Manasthali remains steadfast in its mission to revolutionize mental health care and empower individuals affected by schizophrenia and other mental illnesses to reclaim their lives and realize their full potential.

Unveiling the Silent Revolution Dr. Pratik and Dr. Pramila’s Innovation

Pune, India – May 7th, 2024 – A milestone moment unfolded at the Reliance Leadership Innovation Centre in Pune as the esteemed Padma Vibhushan recipient, Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar, unveiled the groundbreaking book “Silent Revolution” authored by Dr. Pratik Mungekar and Dr. Pramila Kudva. The private event witnessed the gathering of great personalities including Dr. Prachetan Potadar, Dr. Akshay Raghunath, and Dr. Saravjeet Kirad, who joined in celebrating this significant literary contribution.

During the event, the media inquired about the prevalent challenges within the contemporary education system. In response, Dr. Mashelkar articulated profound insights, emphasizing the importance of not just learning, but the art of learning itself. He underscored the transformative power of moving beyond rote learning methodologies, advocating for an education paradigm that supports creativity and innovation.

Dr. Mashelkar elaborated on the essence of providing every child with not just education, but the right education, delivered in the right manner. He passionately conveyed the necessity of cultivating intrinsic curiosity among students, thereby facilitating the transition from mere information absorption to knowledge creation and innovation.

Addressing educators directly, Dr. Mashelkar urged them to grasp innovative pedagogical strategies, placing a renewed emphasis on student-centric approaches. He stressed the pivotal role of teachers in nurturing a human-centric learning environment, advocating for a departure from conventional teaching methods encouraging a culture of innovation and creativity within educational institutions.

The unveiling of “Silent Revolution” marks a significant milestone in the journey towards redefining education paradigms, guided by the visionary insights shared by Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar.

G Square Organizes Drops of Hope Blood Donation Drive, Garners Massive Turnout

Chennai, 06 May 2024 – G Square, South India’s leading plot promoter, recently organized the “G Square Drops of Hope” initiative, a blood donation drive. The initiative was organized in honor of the birthday of G Square’s founder and Managing Director, Mr. Bala Ramajeyam in G Square Beachwalk, Neelankarai.

The real estate company organized the blood donation drive in collaboration with The Madras Voluntary Blood Bureau and has planned to donate the collected blood to the Hindu Medical Mission. This remarkable initiative witnessed the active participation of 100+ G Square employees and people from the public.

Mr. Bala Ramajeyam, Managing Director of G Square Realtors Private Limited, expressed his enthusiasm for the “Drops of Hope” initiative, stating, “At G Square, we believe in making meaningful contributions to society beyond our business endeavors. The ‘ G Square Drops of Hope’ initiative is a reflection of our commitment to social responsibility and our desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. I am extremely elated to see that an initiative like this, organized on my birthday has received such an overwhelming response, participation and reception. We are actually planning to make this initiative an annual event such that many of those in need of blood can benefit from the same. I would like to personally express my gratitude to all the donors for their blood donation, which might just be crucial in saving someone’s life.”

The “G Square Drops of Hope” aims to address the critical need for blood donations within the city and help save lives in our community. The inaugural drive which was conducted just for G Square employees within the organization saw a massive number of participants which prompted the event to be extended to open for the public.

Kochurani, a vibrant 55-year-old, suddenly found her world turned upside down

Kochurani, a vibrant 55-year-old, suddenly found her world turned upside down when she received the devastating diagnosis of stage 4 lung cancer in February 2024. A cherished wife and mother of two, she had always been the beacon of strength and hope for her family and friends.

The Diagnosis:

It all began innocuously with a persistent dry cough in October 2023. Despite diligent adherence to prescribed medications, the cough lingered, prompting further investigation. A plain CT scan initially revealed pneumonia, leading to a two-week hospitalization for treatment. Yet, the cough persisted, prompting a contrast CT scan, which unveiled a concerning mass growth in her left lung. Subsequent lung biopsy confirmed the dreaded diagnosis: lung adenocarcinoma at an advanced stage.

Further tests, including a PET CT scan, revealed the aggressive nature of the cancer, which had metastasized to her right lung, bones, backbone, collar bone, pelvic regions, and the lining of the liver. Amidst escalating pain levels, she underwent radiotherapy to alleviate suffering while awaiting mutation analysis results.

The mutation test results unveiled a rare variant, ERBB2 Exon 20 Insertion, occurring in only 1-5% of adenocarcinoma cases, presenting a daunting treatment challenge. Recommended treatment protocol involved chemotherapy coupled with immunotherapy as the primary line of defence, followed by targeted therapy as the secondary approach. Each cycle of treatment required once every three weeks is a lifeline for Kochurani, promising a second chance to come back to Normal life.

The Plea:

While the family has exhausted savings and incurred loans for a sum of 6,50,000 INR to cover initial treatment costs, the staggering expenses for ongoing care, totalling 26,40,000 INR, looms large. This financial burden threatens to disrupt Kochurani’s crucial treatment regimen, jeopardizing her fight for a second chance at life.

In this time of dire need, we humbly appeal to the kindness and generosity of compassionate souls. Your contribution, no matter the size, will make an immense difference in Kochurani’s battle against cancer. Together, let us ensure she receives the timely treatment and care she so urgently requires, providing solace and support to her loving family in their time of need.

Fernandez Foundation Celebrates International Day of the Midwife

Hyderabad, May 6, 2024: Fernandez Foundation proudly marked the International Day of the Midwife with celebratory events held at Fernandez Stork Home (Banjara Hills) and Fernandez Hospital (Bogulkunta) today. The Foundation, a pioneer in introducing midwifery to the Telugu states since 2017, hosted senior consultants from Fernandez Hospital, alongside parents, healthcare professionals, and seasoned midwives.

The centerpiece of the celebration was the captivating ‘Tree of Life,’ symbolising growth, connection, and nurturing—a fitting tribute to the ethos of midwifery. Attendees were treated to a special Midwifery Open House, offering an exclusive glimpse into the world of midwifery-led natural births. Experienced midwives guided expectant mothers through a comprehensive overview of midwifery care, providing insights into the tools, practices, and philosophies that shape a positive birth experience.

Pregnant mothers had the opportunity to explore exercises tailored to nurture their body and spirit, fostering a blissful birth journey. Interactive sessions facilitated direct engagement with experienced midwives, who shared their expertise on natural birthing methods. Attendees also experienced relaxation techniques such as Aromatherapy and Water birth, aimed at alleviating labor pains.

Speaking on the occasion Dr Evita Fernandez, Chairperson and Managing Director of Fernandez Foundation said that “I dream of a world where every pregnant woman will be able to access a midwife, and only if required will see an obstetrician or other specialists depending on her situation.”

“When obstetricians and professional midwives work together, collaboratively, they can support better outcomes and ensure a positive birthing experience for women”, added Dr Tarakeswari S, Chief Medical Director, Fernandez Hospital.

Inderjeet Kaur, Director of Midwifery Services said that “Midwifery-led care aims to provide constant emotional and psychological support to women during and even after childbirth. Midwives create an environment of empowerment and knowledge for women to labour and birth with confidence. Midwifery care supports women with their birth choices, thus ensuring the experience is joyous and positive.”

The event included interactive sessions highlighting the holistic approach to childbirth and the pivotal role of midwifery in promoting natural and enjoyable births. Educational workshops were also conducted, focusing on effective birthing exercises, various birth positions, and the formulation of personalized birthing plans.

Belenus Champion Hospitals Launches State-of-the-Art Cardiology Specialty Clinic

Bengaluru, Karnataka – 6th May 2024 – Belenus Champion Hospitals celebrated the grand opening of its new Cardiology Specialty Clinic today, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by prominent figures in healthcare and local governance. The clinic promises to revolutionize cardiac care with its advanced treatment options and comprehensive health packages.

Dr. Ranjan Shetty, Head of Cardiology at Manipal HAL Old Airport Road, and guest at the event, praised the new facility: “It’s inspiring to see how Belenus Champion Hospitals integrates the latest technology with patient-centered care. This clinic is set to elevate the standard of cardiac health services in our community.”

Manohar Reddy, local BJP President, emphasized the clinic’s role in enhancing community health: “This clinic represents a significant advancement in healthcare offerings available to our community. It’s a step forward in making high-standard healthcare accessible to all.”

Dr. Manjunath H, Founder of Belenus Champion Hospitals, highlighted the clinic’s commitment: “Our goal has always been to lead with innovation and compassion. The Cardiology Specialty Clinic is not just a medical facility; it’s a lifeline to those seeking hope and healing.”

Dr. Kishore Kumar M G, Co-founder, spoke about the integration of services: “We integrate clinical expertise with personalized care, ensuring that each patient receives the best possible outcome. Our new packages will cater to diverse needs, ensuring comprehensive care for all heart-related conditions.”

Dr. K. Bharathnandan Reddy, Consultant & Head Interventional Cardiology, and Dr. Prajith Pasam, Consultant Interventional Cardiology, introduced an exclusive Angiogram package priced at just ₹6,499, aimed at making critical diagnostic services more affordable.

Prashanth S Desai, CEO, outlined the future vision: “Today marks a key milestone in our journey towards excellence in healthcare. We are excited about the future and the pivotal role we play in shaping health services.”

Additionally, to prioritize patient health and early detection of cardiac issues, the clinic announced that anyone experiencing chest pain can walk in and receive a free ECG test, ensuring timely medical attention.

The Cardiology Specialty Clinic offers a range of specialized health packages, from basic screenings to comprehensive care plans, ensuring that patients receive tailored treatment that suits their specific needs. The clinic is equipped with cutting-edge technology and staffed by a team of renowned cardiologists and healthcare professionals dedicated to providing the highest standard of care.