10, Feb 2024
Unlocking the Mystery of Laryngeal Cancer: From the Beginning to Recovery
By Dr. Shama Shetty, Consultant ENT and Head and Neck Oncology, SPARSH Hospital, Yelahanka, Bengaluru
Getting to Know Your Voice’s Guardian
Let’s talk about the larynx – our voice’s defender, tucked in our neck, making sure we can talk, breathe, and swallow easily. But what if the dark clouds of laryngeal carcinoma disturb this balance? There are a few things you must know if any situation arises like this.
Larynx has three parts – the upper supraglottis, the middle glottis, and the lower subglottis. Laryngeal cancer? It’s a tricky character, with glottic cancer stealing the spotlight at 50%, supraglottic at 45%, and subglottic playing a mysterious role at 5%. Predominantly observed in individuals aged 40-70 years, it exhibits a higher prevalence among males, with an increasing incidence in females attributed to rising smoking rates.
The Culprits: Un the Risk factors
In the mysterious tale of laryngeal cancer, risk factors play a vital role. Tobacco, the main troublemaker, poses a significant threat, especially for cigarette smokers. Excessive alcohol consumption, encounters with workplace toxins like asbestos, paint, plastic radiation, and a history of acid reflux, and the plot thickens. Exploring these risk factors is crucial in developing preventive strategies and raising awareness.
Early Detection: A Vital Component of Recovery
Understanding the subtle indicators of laryngeal carcinoma is crucial for early identification. Supraglottic cancer might start with feeling of a foreign object in the throat, throat pain, difficulty swallowing or neck swelling. Glottic involvement can present with hoarseness whereas Subglottic cancers present with stridor. Additional presentations might include a lingering cough, and referred ear pain. Recognizing these signs and seeking prompt medical attention can significantly impact the success of treatment.
Diagnosis: Why Precision Matters
In the diagnostic theatre, precision steals the spotlight. CT scans, MRIs, and laryngoscopies take centre stage. An Examination Under Anesthesia is like an encore for a comprehensive diagnosis. A biopsy performed on suspicious lesions confirms the presence of cancer. Speech and Swallowing Evaluation is imperative to gauge the impact of laryngeal cancer and its treatment on essential functions such as eating, speaking, and swallowing. Each of these diagnostic elements plays a crucial role in both diagnosing and developing a tailored treatment plan.
Precision in Treatment: Tailoring Approaches to Individuals
Recent strides in medical research has shattered the one-size-fits-all approach. Personalized treatments, like bespoke suits, consider the cancer stage, location, patients general health and their preferences. A multidisciplinary team including oncologists, radiologists, speech therapists, nutritionists, and mental health professionals is essential to maximize cure and provide good quality of life.
Early stage cancers- a single modality treatment with Transoral Microscopic Laser Resection (TOLR), radiotherapy or partial laryngectomy are the options. The choice depends on the patient’s general condition, performance status, profession, and the expertise of the surgeon. Intermediate-stage cancers, where laryngeal function is still preserved, often undergo organ preservation chemoradiotherapy. If the patient is unfit for chemoradiotherapy, surgery is considered. In advanced cancers, total laryngectomy, involving the removal of the entire voice box, is performed, followed by adjuvant treatment and postoperative voice rehabilitation.
Neck dissection (removal of lymph nodes around the tumor) is contingent on the subsite and stage of the tumor.
Regular follow-ups and supportive care are crucial components to enhance the patient’s overall well-being throughout the treatment journey.
Top of Form
Life After Cancer: The Rehabilitation Journey
Surviving laryngeal cancer extends beyond overcoming the disease; it involves reclaiming life post-treatment. Rehabilitation programs, which encompass speech therapy and swallowing exercises, are crucial in assisting individuals in regaining their voice and adjusting to any changes in their communication and swallowing abilities. Psychological support also plays an integral role in addressing challenges that may arise during the recovery process.
Voice rehabilitation methods include Esophageal speech, Electro larynx, TEP (Tracheo-oesophageal puncture) with voice prosthesis. Each method has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, with TEP prosthesis offering the best speech compared to the others. Speech and language pathologists play a pivotal role in guiding and supporting individuals through the voice rehabilitation process.
Raising Awareness: A Collective Responsibility
Understanding the nuances of laryngeal cancer becomes a powerful tool. The more informed individuals are, the better equipped they are to take charge of their health. From educating the public about risk factors, symptoms, promoting regular screenings to embracing innovative treatments and rehabilitation, a holistic approach ensures that individuals facing this diagnosis can navigate the complexities with resilience and hope.
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- By Rabindra
9, Feb 2024
When to Act: Recognizing the Warning Signs of Diabetic Foot Complications
Dr Rajeev Premnath, General Laparoscopic Surgeon and Endoscopist, Minimally Invasive Proctology Department at Ramakrishna Hospital, Bengaluru
Your feet are like health detectives, giving you valuable clues about your overall well-being. Instead of waiting until you’ve accidentally hurt them, start paying attention to your feet—they might be trying to warn you about potential health issues. After all, your feet are more than just the sturdy support for your adventures; they’re like a health barometer, ready to share important insights about your body.
If your feet frequently experience the sensation of “falling asleep,” it could be a signal that diabetes is at play. Elevated sugar levels might be causing a crucial nerve in your foot to misfire. Don’t ignore the warning signs—open sores, cuts, or injuries that drag your feet in healing could be red flags. It’s like your feet are sending an SOS, so don’t hesitate to seek a podiatrist’s expertise. If there’s a tingling or numbness sensation, it could be your body’s way of whispering, “Check for diabetes!”
Diabetes in India
In India, about 77 million adults aged 18 and above have type 2 diabetes, and almost 25 million are on the brink of developing diabetes. India stands second globally in the diabetes count. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes mess with how our bodies handle blood sugar, and it all revolves around the hormone, insulin. Insulin, crafted by the pancreas’ beta cells, shuttles glucose from our food into cells for energy. Type 2 diabetes kicks in when cells resist insulin, causing sugar levels to rise, potentially impacting the heart, kidneys, and vision. Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune battle, destroys insulin-making beta cells with no cure, requiring insulin. Type 2 diabetes, often tied to lifestyle choices like obesity, can be tackled with a mix of healthy eating, exercise, and sometimes medications. Now, let’s explore the signs your feet may be signaling that it’s time to take action, especially if you have diabetes.
Exploring Diabetic Foot Complications
Nerve Troubles (Neuropathy): For people with diabetes, a common challenge is neuropathy, when foot nerves act up, bringing on tingling that hints your nerves might be in trouble, along with numbness or pain. If you notice a burning feeling, it could be a sign of nerve discomfort. Weak muscles are like a warning sign for nerve problems. Finding these signals early on is crucial for proper care.
Blood Flow Blockade (Peripheral Artery Disease): Another issue connected to diabetes is peripheral artery disease, which messes with blood flow to the extremities, like the feet. Watch for chilly or cold feet, as it might mean less blood flow. Slow-healing wounds could suggest circulation problems, and changes in skin color may signal vascular issues—warning signs that need quick attention.
Immunity Dilemma (Infections): Diabetes weakens the immune system, making infections more likely. Foot infections can escalate fast, stressing the importance of keeping a close eye and taking timely action.
Toenail Health: Your toenails spill secrets, especially about diabetes. If they break easily or get thick, it’s a nudge to check your blood sugar. Dark or yellow nails, tricky ingrown toenails, and slow healing are signals for a diabetes check. Diabetes can lead to toenail fungus, so stay alert for any thickness or color changes.
Neglecting foot issues can have a domino effect on overall health, potentially impacting the cardiovascular system and mobility.
Steps Towards Health Wellbeing
In a nutshell, embracing a healthy lifestyle is key to managing diabetes and ensuring optimal foot health. Start by keeping a close watch on your blood sugar levels through a balanced diet and regular exercise. Equally important is choosing the right footwear, acting as a shield against potential diabetes-related issues. Also don’t forget good hygiene practices, a robust defense lowering the risk of foot infections. The most crucial aspect is focusing on enhancing immunity.
9, Feb 2024
Amrita Hospital Faridabad Ties Up with IIT Hyderabad to Develop New Technology
Hyderabad, February 09, 2024: Dr. Bhaskar Viswanathan, HoD, Department of Radiation Oncology, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, has been recently selected for a research grant, meant to develop an indigenous robotic ultrasound for tumor motion and radiation hyperthermia for cancer treatment. The technology would be developed in association with Dr. Avinash Eranki, Assistant Professor, Department of Biomedical Engineering at the Medical Ultrasound Research Laboratory of Indian Institute of Technology – Hyderabad, Eranki Labs Private Limited, and Amrita Centre for Advanced Robotics.
Dr. Bhaskar Viswanathan, Head of Radiation Oncology Department at Amrita Hospital, Faridabad said, “It is a matter of immense pleasure and pride for us that we have been selected for this grant to indigenously develop robot-assisted ultrasound system for image-guided therapies and hyperthermia for cancer patients. It is a non-invasive technique that uses focused ultrasound waves and has a huge potential in cancer treatment like tumor ablation, mild hyperthermia for radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and motion management during radiation delivery.”
“This cutting-edge technology will allow precise localization of lesions, enabling targeted and effective delivery of therapeutic radiation and avoiding damage to the surrounding tissue and organs. Robotic ultrasound plays an important role in guiding the delivery of hyperthermia by accurately locating the tumor and monitoring its motion during treatment. Real-time tracking can be crucial in ensuring that hyperthermia is delivered precisely to the intended target,” the doctor said.
He explained that tumors in the body can move due to factors like breathing and organ motion. Tracking this motion is crucial for accurately delivering radiation therapy. Robotic ultrasound systems can be used to track the movement of tumors in real-time. They use robotic arms equipped with ultrasound transducers to continuously monitor the tumor position during treatment, thus improving targeting accuracy.
Hyperthermia involves raising the temperature of the tumor region to make cancer cells more sensitive to radiation. It also improves blood flow to the tumor, enhancing the delivery of oxygen and chemotherapy. Combining hyperthermia with radiation therapy can significantly enhance the therapeutic effects and theoretically allow for theoretic lower radiation doses, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Dr. Avinash Eranki, Assistant Professor, Department of Biomedical Engineering, and CEO of Eranki Labs Pvt. Ltd. said, “The need for spatially precise and efficacious delivery of radiation and ultrasound energy is possibly key to improved outcomes in patients with debilitating cancer disease.”
“The collaboration with IIT Hyderabad and Eranki Labs Private Limited enhances the project’s scope, leveraging the expertise of both medical and engineering domains. This interdisciplinary partnership is crucial for advancing technology in cancer care, emphasizing a holistic approach to treatment innovation. We expect to complete the project in 3 years, the grant for which was provided to us by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR),” added Dr. Viswanathan.
9, Feb 2024
World Cancer Day: Dr. Dana Cohen, a graduate of St. George’s University School of Medicine, gives guidance on how to prevent Cervical Cancer
According to the National Library of Medicine, more than 132,000 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed annually in India, with 74,000 individuals succumbing to the disease. Globally, cervical cancer ranks as the fourth-most common cancer in women, with an alarming 604,000 new cases and 342,000 associated deaths reported annually. However, there is a glimmer of hope, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights that up to 93% of cervical cancer cases could potentially be prevented with appropriate measures and interventions.
In recognition of World Cancer Day, integrative medicine specialist Dr. Dana Cohen who graduated from St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine in the Caribbean shares advice on how to reduce the risk of this deadly disease through daily holistic wellness practices.
Cervical cancer causes and risk factors
Before we cover the important preventative measures that women can take to decrease their risk of cervical cancer, it’s helpful to learn about the causes and risk factors that contribute to the disease. The most prominent cause of cervical cancer is persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), a viral infection that causes growth of the skin or mucous membrane (thin skin that covers the inside surface of parts of the body). While pervasive, most HPV infections clear up naturally without causing significant harm.
In some cases, however, the virus persists and can lead to changes in the cells of the cervix, the lowermost part of the uterus. Cervical cancer begins when healthy cells in the cervix develop changes in their DNA, eventually forming a mass of cancerous cells called a tumour. These malignant cells can invade and destroy healthy body tissue. With time, they can even break away and spread to other parts of the body.
Even though HPV remains the primary cause of cervical cancer, other elements can impact an individual’s susceptibility such as smoking, having a weakened immune system, a genetic predisposition and lack of screening, which could lead to undetected pre-cancerous changes.
Cervical cancer prevention tips
The most prominent preventative measures against cervical cancer include getting vaccinated for HPV. As the list of risk factors indicates, it can also help to quit smoking and have regular healthcare visits.
Additionally, taking a proactive approach with integrated lifestyle choices can have a significant impact on cervical health outcomes. These three holistic methods can help patients support their immune systems to fight HPV and reduce their cervical cancer risk.
1. Nourish your immune system with functional nutrition
A healthy immune system is the body’s best defense against high-risk infection. These three nutrients can help support immune health:
Medicinal mushrooms: Adaptogenic mushrooms like chaga, shitake, and lion’s mane contain bioactive compounds that can enhance immune function; they also have helpful anti-inflammatory properties.
Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers (among other fruits and vegetables), vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that boosts the body’s immune response.
Folate: Present in lentils, eggs, spinach, and bananas, folate is a B vitamin that is essential for DNA synthesis and cell division; low folate levels in women are associated with higher rates of developing cervical cancer from HPV.
2. Stay hydrated
Water’s role in supporting the immune system cannot be overstated. Proper hydration helps maintain blood volume and circulation, which ensures that immune cells can travel efficiently through the body. White blood cells require a balanced internal environment to function optimally.
Remaining well-hydrated can also help reduce the burden placed on an individual’s immune system by working to remove toxins and waste products from the body. This enhances your immune response with more strength to focus on defending against infections.
3. Reduce stress
Stress reduction can also have a significant impact on supporting immune function. Chronic stress has been found to weaken the immune system, making the body less effective in warding off infection.
Some activities that can help patients manage their stress levels include:
Practising mindfulness and meditation techniques to help promote relaxation and decrease anxiety.
Committing to regular physical activity serves as a natural stress reducer by releasing endorphins.
Try holistic therapies like aromatherapy, acupuncture, and massage to promote relaxation, balance energy, and relieve tension.
Learn to take charge of your health
To conclude, there are measures individuals can take to mitigate their susceptibility to developing this deadly disease. Incorporating proper nutrition, hydration, and stress reduction methods into your daily routine can strengthen your immune system and help reduce your risk of cervical cancer — particularly when combined with proper vaccination.
8, Feb 2024
Narayana Health Unveils State-of-the-Art Rehabilitation Centre
Bengaluru, February 08, 2024: Narayana Health, one of India’s leading healthcare providers, proudly announces the inauguration of its advanced Rehabilitation Centre at Hebbagodi in Electronic City, today. This state-of-the-art facility shall provide comprehensive care for patients requiring advanced rehabilitation services following an acute illness, underscoring Narayana Health’s unwavering dedication to healthcare excellence.
The inauguration ceremony, was graced by prominent dignitaries including Dr Devi Shetty, Chairman of Narayana Health and Shri Dinesh Gundu Rao, Minister of the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Karnataka.
In his address at the inauguration, Shri Dinesh Gundu Rao commended Narayana Health for its commitment to addressing the critical need for top-tier post-acute rehabilitation services in the state. He praised the institution’s holistic approach and emphasized the importance of personalized care facilitated by a team of experienced specialists and support staff.
Highlighting the key features of the Centre, Dr Devi Shetty said, “Our rehabilitation facility is very unique. The centre offers cutting-edge, cost-effective rehabilitation, catering to both in-patient and out-patient needs. What sets us apart is the seamless integration of clinical support from our multispecialty centre with rehabilitation that is done in a very serene environment conducive to healing. This ensures a continuum of care rarely found elsewhere. The initiative is a hallmark of Narayana Health’s commitment to provide comprehensive care and to constantly improve our patient outcomes.”
Dr Emmanuel Rupert, CEO of Narayana Health emphasized that the centre would fill the gap in rehabilitative services that is present in healthcare delivery. Dr Srikant Venkatakrishnan, Head of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, said “Our strength lies in our multidisciplinary team, comprising Rehabilitation Physicians/Physiatrists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech and language pathologists, orthotists, psychologists and clinical social workers. We provide customized care plans for our patients focusing on functional goal setting, seeking to maximise patient outcomes. We seek to incorporate advances in health care and facilitate community re-integration of our patients and their families. “
The Narayana Health Rehabilitation Centre offers a comprehensive range of services, including post stroke rehabilitation, traumatic brain injury care, spinal cord injury management, cardio-pulmonary rehabilitation, chronic pain management amongst others. The centre is managed with the latest rehabilitation protocols and clinical equipment such as gamified rehabilitation, body weight support systems, virtual reality, automated assistive technology in addition to standard rehabilitation devices. With a focus on enhancing functional independence and reducing caregiver burden, the Centre endeavors to empower patients and their families towards holistic recovery and societal integration.
In addition to providing expert medical care, the Centre is committed to community engagement and wellness.
8, Feb 2024
Max Hospital Saket, Launches Exclusive Cancer Care OPD Services in Bhiwani
North India’s leading healthcare provider, Max Super Speciality Hospital Saket today announced the launch of its exclusive Oncology OPD Services in partnership with the city-based Bhardwaj Hospital.
The OPD services were launched in the presence of Dr. Nagender Sharma, Principal Consultant, Medical Oncology and Dr Debashish Chaudhary, Principal Consultant, Surgical Oncology from Max Super Speciality Hospital,Saket who will be available for primary consultations at Bhardwaj Hospital, Agrasen Chowk, M.C Colony, Bhiwani.
Dr. Nagender Sharma will be available on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday of every month, and Dr Debashish Chaudhary will be available on the 2nd & 4th Thursday of every month. The timing of the OPDS for both doctors will be between 12 pm to 3 pm.
During the launch, Dr. Nagender Sharma, Principal Consultant, Medical Oncology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach to cancer care which has evolved significantly and said “Cancer treatment has evolved significantly, and Max Hospital Saket continues to be at the forefront of this innovation and excellence. The landscape of cancer treatment has seen remarkable advancements. We are now able to provide personalized and targeted therapies that are more effective and less invasive, ultimately leading to better outcomes for our patients. The launch of these OPD Services in Bhiwani will be a value addition to the people in terms of quick access to the best-in-class services and expert opinion without the hassle of travelling to other cities for primary consultations or follow-ups.”
Dr Debashish Chaudhary, Principal Consultant, Surgical Oncology from Max Super Speciality Hospital Saket said“Our endeavour is to raise awareness about cancer and provide a holistic and supportive environment for such patients in their journey. With the advancement of technology, minimal access to cancer surgeries has also become commonplace. Experts can adequately resect difficult tumours including colon cancers, stomach cancer, including liver metastases which suggest a late-stage disease, with minimal incisions or even laparoscopically, in certain cases. Minimally invasive surgeries, have numerous advantages for patients in comparison to traditional surgeries including minimal scars, faster recovery, reduced pain, shorter duration of hospital stays, and lesser post-surgery complications.”
8, Feb 2024
Stride for a Cause: Manipal Marathon’s 6th Edition Takes on Hospice Palliative Care
Manipal; 8th February 2024: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) in collaboration with the Udupi District Amateur Athletic Association (UDAAA) is organising its annual running event, The Manipal Marathon. Marathon stands as the largest student-organized marathon in the country that takes place in Manipal of Udupi District.
With approximately 15,000 participants, the Manipal Marathon offers a grand carnival celebration after the run and offers substantial prize money to its winners. The race routes guide runners through the stunning landscapes of Manipal and the Udupi coastline, boasting international certification from the IAAF AIMS. The various categories, being full marathon (42.195k), half marathon (21.098k), 10k, 5k and 3k have been carefully devised to fit into every runner’s capability, be it a beginner or a professional. Last category for 3 KM run also called as 3K Fun Run will have on spot registrations and will be free of cost. Following the completion of the Manipal Marathon, participants are treated to a magnificent carnival celebration, in addition to significant monetary rewards for the winners. We are awarding upto twenty one lakhs prize money.
Ahead of the event which is scheduled for 11th of February, MAHE hosted a press conference addressing the media on the upcoming marathon and spoke about the idea behind organising one of the largest marathons in the country. The event will aim to raise awareness for “Hospice” palliative care, carrying the tagline “We are with you all the way”. Along with a thrilling race, marathon will provide with an opportunity to support and learn about an essential cause in the field of healthcare.
Speaking at the conference, Lt Gen (Dr.) M D Venkatesh – Vice Chancellor, MAHE, said, ” The Manipal Marathon is not just a race; it’s a celebration of excellence, a showcase of global participation. I am thrilled to witness the culmination of athletic prowess, global unity, and social responsibility at the Manipal Marathon 2024 Our University has always been at the forefront of fostering not just academic excellence but holistic development. I am incredibly thrilled to see our campus community coming together as we prepare ready for this event to pursue a healthier lifestyle and a deeper feeling of unity. I express my gratitude & appreciation to everyone involved in organising this mega marathon “
Dr. Sharath Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), MAHE, Manipal, said, “We see a potent convergence of enthusiasm, tenacity, and team spirit as we prepare to host the 6th edition of Manipal Marathon. As it is a student led drive this underscores our commitment to fostering well-rounded individuals who are not only academically adept but also socially conscious. The marathon’s dedication to raising awareness for ‘Hospice’ palliative care aligns with our ethos of contributing meaningfully to societal well-being.
Dr. HS Ballal, Pro – Chancellor of MAHE, said, “I’m overjoyed to see the anticipation for our impending marathon growing. With each stride, we are building our University family’s unity and friendship in addition to our physical conditioning. I urge everyone taking part to embrace the marathon’s spirit, relish the experience, and allow it serve as motivation to live better, more active lifestyles”.
Along with global participants, marathon will see participation of over 200 visually impaired individuals from Samarthanam Trust and 150 physically challenged people from all across karnataka.
Manipal Academy of Higher Education also presented a cheque of INR Five Lakhs to Udupi Press club in order to support medical treatment/ health checkups for the journalists.
8, Feb 2024
Amrita Hospital Faridabad Ties Up with IIT Hyderabad
FARIDABAD/MUMBAI, February 08, 2024: Dr. Bhaskar Viswanathan, HoD, Department of Radiation Oncology, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, has been recently selected for a research grant, meant to develop an indigenous robotic ultrasound for tumor motion and radiation hyperthermia for cancer treatment. The technology would be developed in association with Dr. Avinash Eranki, Assistant Professor, Department of Biomedical Engineering at the Medical Ultrasound Research Laboratory of Indian Institute of Technology – Hyderabad, Eranki Labs Private Limited, and Amrita Centre for Advanced Robotics.
Dr. Bhaskar Viswanathan, Head of Radiation Oncology Department at Amrita Hospital, Faridabad said, “It is a matter of immense pleasure and pride for us that we have been selected for this grant to indigenously develop robot-assisted ultrasound system for image-guided therapies and hyperthermia for cancer patients. It is a non-invasive technique that uses focused ultrasound waves and has a huge potential in cancer treatment like tumor ablation, mild hyperthermia for radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and motion management during radiation delivery.”
“This cutting-edge technology will allow precise localization of lesions, enabling targeted and effective delivery of therapeutic radiation and avoiding damage to the surrounding tissue and organs. Robotic ultrasound plays an important role in guiding the delivery of hyperthermia by accurately locating the tumor and monitoring its motion during treatment. Real-time tracking can be crucial in ensuring that hyperthermia is delivered precisely to the intended target,” the doctor said.
He explained that tumors in the body can move due to factors like breathing and organ motion. Tracking this motion is crucial for accurately delivering radiation therapy. Robotic ultrasound systems can be used to track the movement of tumors in real-time. They use robotic arms equipped with ultrasound transducers to continuously monitor the tumor position during treatment, thus improving targeting accuracy.
Hyperthermia involves raising the temperature of the tumor region to make cancer cells more sensitive to radiation. It also improves blood flow to the tumor, enhancing the delivery of oxygen and chemotherapy. Combining hyperthermia with radiation therapy can significantly enhance the therapeutic effects and theoretically allow for theoretic lower radiation doses, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Dr. Avinash Eranki, Assistant Professor, Department of Biomedical Engineering, and CEO of Eranki Labs Pvt. Ltd. said, “The need for spatially precise and efficacious delivery of radiation and ultrasound energy is possibly key to improved outcomes in patients with debilitating cancer disease.”
“The collaboration with IIT Hyderabad and Eranki Labs Private Limited enhances the project’s scope, leveraging the expertise of both medical and engineering domains. This interdisciplinary partnership is crucial for advancing technology in cancer care, emphasizing a holistic approach to treatment innovation. We expect to complete the project in 3 years, the grant for which was provided to us by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR),” added Dr. Viswanathan.
8, Feb 2024
Large Indian Genome wide study identifies key genes for Parkinson disease…
Hyderabad, February 08, 2024: A new study conducted by MedGenome, a leading global genomics company in South Asia, together with Parkinson’s Research Alliance of India (PRAI) found that rare genetic variations along with common variants derived through polygenic risk score (PRS) can detect Young Onset of Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD). A pilot study was published through this collaboration in the 2022 July edition of the Advanced Biology journal with 100 whole genome of Parkinson’s Disease patients [1]. The new study validated the existing knowledge along with new findings on the genetics of Parkinson’s disease which got published in the prestigious journal, Movement Disorders.
This is a first-of-a-kind study conducted in India aimed to initiate a population-based genetic analysis of Young Onset Parkinson’s disease (YOPD) in Indian population. The Genetics of PAN-India Young Onset Parkinson Disease (GOPI-YOPD), a multicentre Pan India project- recruited 1000 patients through a network of 10 specialty Movement Disorder Centers/Neurology clinics across India.
The research paper investigates genetic variations associated with young-onset Parkinson’s disease (YOPD) in the Indian population. The study validates existing findings from European populations and identifies major genetic mutations in genes such as PRKN (13%), GBA, PINK1, and LRRK2 with a notable discovery of rare South Asia-specific mutation in the GBA gene, including p.Ser164Arg, confirmed through experimental research. This mutation is not seen in other populations. The study aggregates the common genetic variations into a polygenic risk score (PD-PRS), introducing a genetic screening test for assessing the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. This comprehensive analysis of rare and common genetic variations in YOPD in the Indian population enhances the understanding of the genetic basis of Parkinson’s disease and introduces a novel genetic screening approach to assess disease risk. This opens door for a first-ever genetic screening in India for Parkinson’s Disease in high-risk individuals and affected families. The results can be evaluated by clinicians and geneticists to guide patients in early intervention, disease risk mitigation, and better treatment strategies.
The genomic analysis for the study was done at MedGenome Labs using MedGenome’s SARGAM array (South Asian Research Genotyping Array for Medicine), which has curated content from a proprietary database of 2.5 million variants unique to the South Asian population which is not available in any publicly available genetic database.
Prof Rupam Borgohain, Secretary of Parkinson’s Research Alliance of India (PRAI) and Chairman, PDMDRC, Citi Neuro Centre, Hyderabad said, “Parkinson’s disease is a common neurological disorder causing tremors, slowness of movements, stiffness and walking difficulties in most. It is caused by a complex interaction between external environmental and familial or genetic factors. Based on the initiative of Dr Prashanth LK, Specialist in Movement disorders, Parkinsons disease and Movement disorders clinic, Bengaluru, a first of its kind- India wide registry of Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease (disease starting at age less than 50 years) was started by PRAI and resulted in insights into clinical and genetic aspects of Indian patients. Parkinson’s disease with onset less than 20 years (juvenile PD), 20-40 years (young onset PD) and 40-50 years (early onset PD) have different clinical features. The role of genetic factors seems to be higher in these patients compared to older age and this collaborative project of PRAI with MedGenome has identified unique genetic fingerprints in Indian patients.”
Dr Vedam Ramprasad, CEO, MedGenome said, “MedGenome has always been at the forefront of equipping clinicians and patients with the latest and most innovative tools in healthcare by leveraging the power of genomics. With the increased focus on personalised medicine, using risk screening tools such as Polygenic Risk Score (PRS) will enable us to predict an individual’s genetic liability to rare and inherited diseases much in advance before the symptoms start appearing. With these findings, we aim to offer a prognostic value to clinicians while catering to the need of a systematic genetic evaluations for timely prevention and management of several diseases.”
Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder in adults in the age bracket of 60 years and above. The Global Burden of Disease Study (2018) states that the burden of Parkinson’s disease has doubled across the globe over the past two decades. India accounts for approximately 10% of the global burden, which translates to nearly 0.58 million patients living with the disease.
8, Feb 2024
Rapido offers free eye check-ups for its 3 lakhs+ registered Captains in Chennai
Chennai, 08 February 2024: Rapido, a leading aggregator platform which provides bike taxi, auto, and cab services has announced the launch of “Drive Safe India” campaign partnering with Shell Fleet Solutions to promote road safety by ensuring good eye care of its captains. As part of the campaign, Rapido is offering free eye-check-ups and free spectacles to its 3 lakhs + registered bike taxi, auto and cab captains operating at its city office in Guindy, Chennai.
So far, Rapido is expecting around 45,000+ captains to register for this one month-long campaign that was launched on 19th January 2024. By partaking in these eye examinations, Rapido captains can proactively identify potential vision impairments, paving the way for timely intervention. Good eye health is essential for driving, especially for reading road signs accurately. By providing free eye check-ups, Rapido ensures that its captains can address any underlying vision issues that may hinder them from safe driving practices.
Speaking about the initiative, Pavan Guntupalli, co-founder of Rapido said ‘At Rapido, we prioritise the safety and well-being of our captains and riders. Captains with poor vision may fail to comply with the traffic regulations. To avoid any such scenarios and keeping in mind the safety of our Rapido captains, passengers, and other commuters on the road, we are organising this campaign to provide free eye-check ups and free spectacles. This initiative will help to reduce the risk of accidents that stems from visual impairments and provide a safe riding experience for both the passengers and captains throughout the journey.”
Recognising the pivotal role captains play in the success of Rapido, the company has undertaken this comprehensive healthcare campaign in Chennai to ensure the overall wellness. The campaign aligns with Rapido’s commitment to fostering a culture of care and responsibility towards its captains. By offering free eye check-ups, the company aims to proactively address any vision-related issues that captains may face.
