Category Archives: Health

Say Yes to Access this International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Bangalore, December 4, 2023: On Sunday, December 3rd, the Association of People with Disability (APD) hosted a special event at Jawahar Bal Bhavan, Cubbon Park, from 10 am to 1 pm on account of International Day for People with Disabilities. The event was part of the organization’s larger ‘Yes to Access’ project, an initiative dedicated to creating a more accessible world for People with Disabilities (PwDs). As part of the project, a poignant Pledge was crafted to amplify awareness and support for an inclusive world.

Recognizing the profound impact of accessibility on people with disabilities – unlocking doors to education, employment, equal opportunities, and a barrier-free world – the event featured an array of performances showcasing the incredible talents of APD’s beneficiaries, students from Shradhanjali Integrated School, an inclusive school run by the organization, and dedicated staff. From captivating art displays to mesmerizing wheelchair dance performances, the event was a testament to the resilience and creativity of the disability community.

Distinguished guests graced the occasion, with Dr. Chethana Thirthahalli, Lead, Health, at HCL Foundation, serving as the Chief Guest. National Award-winning actor and former Member of Legislative Council (MLC), Tara, and Writer and Director, Gururaj Kulkarni Nadagouda also graced the occasion in a show of support.

Dr. Chethana emphasized the importance of collaborative action to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for persons with disabilities, underscoring the need for a united effort to create a more accessible and inclusive society.

Talking about the importance of accessibility, she mentioned, “Optimizing the health and well-being of people with disabilities is essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Because the experience of disability is universal across the lifespan and impacts all areas of human life, disability is relevant to the implementation of all SDGs. It is inspiring to see the extent to which organizations of persons with disabilities are driving forward to involve people with disability in various ways.”

Dr Senthil NS Kumar, CEO, The Association of People with Disability (APD), shared, “India is home to a remarkable 22 crore people with disabilities (PwDs), yet their visibility does not align with this significant number. This invisibility is the reason why PwDs are often not a consideration when public and private infrastructure are planned. And, they are invisible because they currently lack access to these same public and private spaces to participate in a full and dignified life. Providing them access to a more inclusive and barrier-free environment could enhance their visibility and lead to better recognition of their needs.”

In her address about the programme, Ms Tara, former MLC said these children are like Gods. I salute the teachers for the patience with which they impart education to these children. Primary Education is far more bigger than the Ph.D. because it is in the lowest rung of education a strong foundation is laid for a bright future. This is the most appropriate and unique program for the children.

Experts Call for Awareness as India tops Global Thalassemia Charts with Burden of Over 10,000 Annual Cases

Mumbai, 4th December 2023: Thalassemia, a genetic disorder affecting hemoglobin, presents a significant health challenge in India. With the world’s largest population of Thalassemia Major children, ranging from 1 to 1.5 lakhs, and around 42 million carriers of the beta thalassemia trait, the country is struggling with a substantial burden of this condition. Thalassemia was included under the Person with Disability Act as it is a lifelong disease and one where constant care and monitoring are required.

 As the most prevalent genetic disorders globally and in India, hemoglobinopathies, particularly Thalassemia Major, require focused attention. Thalassemia patients are mostly children who go through painful blood transfusions for several years. Continuous blood transfusions and iron chelation therapies have their challenges and risks for the patients. The implication of continuous blood transfusion and other therapies impacts the patient and their families and has a huge social and economic burden on the nation.

 Guidance related to treatment, financial support, and planning are the most critical factors affecting access to transplantation in India. To combat this challenge, DKMS BMST Foundation India has come up with a Thalassemia Programme for such patients.

 Dr. Santanu Sen, Consultant of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and Stem Cell Transplantation at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, said, “Thalassemia casts a substantial shadow on many lives in India, especially among children. Stem cell transplantation is a powerful tool in the arsenal against this genetic ailment. It is not just about treating symptoms; it is about providing a cure and enabling children to lead full, healthy lives. Stem cell transplants represent a pivotal shift in the narrative of Thalassemia, offering a brighter and more hopeful future for those affected.”

 Patrick Paul, CEO of DKMS BMST Foundation India, said, “The DKMS-BMST Patient Funding Programme and the DKMS-BMST Thalassemia Programme, integral to the DKMS mission, strive to enhance accessibility to transplantation for underprivileged patients in India. Collaborating with local NGOs and transplantation clinics, the Thalassemia program organizes events facilitating free HLA typing for pediatric patients and their siblings. DKMS Germany covers the associated costs. This initiative extends support to cases without matching siblings, aiding in an unrelated donor search. Since 2018, over 14,800 Thalassemia children and family members have received free HLA typing, leading to 345 successful transplants and offering a transformative impact on their diagnostic accuracy and potential for stem cell transplantation.”

 In the battle against Thalassemia, survivor Gurnaz Kaur, diagnosed in 2013, was struggling with monthly transfusions and Iron Chelations; her parents sought a lasting solution. Consulting Dr. Joseph John from CMC Ludhiana, they embraced the hope of a blood stem cell transplant. Gurnaz, part of DKMS-BMST’s Thalassemia program, found a perfect match in her elder brother. The transplant, facilitated by CMCL and DKMS-BMST, unfolded a new chapter for her. Two years post-transplant, Gurnaz Kaur now revels in a healthy life, a testament to the significant impact of the program on her well-being.

 The life of Gurnaz Kaur and patients like her are true inspirations. DKMS-BMST works with 18 partners across India, like CMC Ludhiana and Kokilaben Hospital, to name a few, to continue the mission of supporting more patients under the Thalassemia program. With a vision to identify a matching donor within the family as well as support unrelated donor searches for patients who do not find a suitable match within their family.

 The UN designates December 3rd as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities and aims to raise awareness and understanding of various disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and well- being of persons with disabilities. Thalassemia, as a disability, can be cured with a stem cell transplant, but there is only a 1 in a million chance that someone comes up as a match for a patient, and Indian patients mainly require an Indian tissue match. Blood stem cell donation is a completely safe process, and more and more young Indians need to come forward and register as potential donors.

Bry-Air conducts the 13th Biannual Eye Camp to support underprivileged people suffering from eye-related problems

New Delhi, 4th December 2023: Staying true to its commitment to enhancing lives through CSR activities, Bry-Air, the flagship company of Pahwa Group, organized its 13th Biannual Eye Camp at Moga, Punjab. The camp was conducted on 3rd December at Mathra Das Civil Hospital in association with a local NGO partner, Bhartiya Jagriti Manch.

 The camp was visited by more than 2500 number of people from the villages of Singha Wala, Naar Khote, Sapu Wala, Tareywala, Budh Singh Wala, Chadek, Malinwala, Khote Patti Mohabbat, Marion, Ramu Wala Kalam, and Moga district. During the camp, 104 number of people were identified with the need to get cataract surgery. As part of the initiative, 1200 medicines and 300 spectacles were distributed free of cost to the people attending the camp.

 The 13th Biannual Eye Camp was inaugurated jointly by Sanjeev Saini, Chairman, Blooming Buds School, Moga, along with Anandita Pahwa, Head-CSR Pahwa Group, in the presence of Indu Puri. Along with this, the camp was graced by the presence of Dr Amandeep Kaur Arora, MLA, Moga, and other eminent personalities of Moga as well.

 The company has been organizing the camp since 2012 as a gesture to pay tribute to Rai Bahadur Dr. Mathra Das Pahwa. During his lifetime, Dr. Pahwa conducted over half a million surgeries. Along with this, his relentless work as a philanthropist in the field of vision, especially cataract surgery for the underprivileged, won him the recognition of Netra-Dev (God of Eyes).

 Following his passion for helping people gain their eyesight, he created a record of conducting 750 operations in a single day, which made him the world’s greatest eye operator. Acknowledging his dedication to enriching lives through such initiatives, he has been commemorated with many awards, namely, Padma Shri (1954), the title of Rai Bahadur (1921), Kesari Hind- Gold Medal (1924), Kesari Hind- Silver Medal (1912).

 Carrying forward his legacy of conducting charitable work for the underprivileged in the field of vision and cataract surgery, till date the company has organized 115 eye camps where they have treated around 40228 people over the years. During the period, 3269 people have successfully received cataract surgeries, accompanied by the distribution of 24991 free spectacles along with 31623 free medicines.

Speaking on the occasion, Anandita Pahwa, Head -CSR Pahwa Group said, “As a responsible company, we firmly believe in bringing about the change in society we want, rather than waiting for the change to happen. Along similar lines, we keep conducting such CSR activities to help people with eye-related problems gain their eyesight. Owing to our continuous effort, we have been able to help a significant number of people over time and wish to support more people in the years to come.”

 Elaborating on the same, Bhartiya Jagriti Manch said, “As an organization, we diligently work towards enhancing people’s lives. The collaboration with Bry-Air gave us an opportunity to help create awareness and provide medical assistance to underserved people. It played a pivotal role in directly reaching out to the beneficiaries and providing them with the free-of-cost services at the camp.”

Nano Aerpod: India’s First Personal Air Purifier Addresses Air Pollution Concerns

Nano Aerpod, designed with the understanding that clean air is fundamental for human well-being, targets a diverse range of consumers, including commuters, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals in industries facing high pollution levels. Founded in 2021 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, FLH Kleanair And Klean Energy, was born out of a commitment to address the vital link between clean air and human sustainability. Witnessing the global crisis firsthand, the founders resolved to create a platform dedicated to clean air solutions. Nano Aerpod marks the first-of-its-kind consumer Personal Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) developed and manufactured in India, setting the stage for future advancements.

Clean air, a basic human necessity, contributes to enhanced overall health.

Nano Aerpod’s efficient medical grade HEPA filters, guarantees the removal of harmful particles, allergens, and pollutants, thereby promoting respiratory well-being. Breathing purified air has been linked to improved cardiovascular health, reduced respiratory issues, and heightened cognitive function.

FLH, with a vision for a cleaner and healthier future, is not stopping at Nano Aerpod.

The company is gearing up to launch four more consumer products, including India’s first personal air purifier helmets for riders and cyclists. These innovative helmets cater to a wide spectrum of industries such as mining, chemical, pharma, construction, welding, and fabrication. In a strategic collaboration with IIT, FLH is currently in the R&D stage for high-altitude and plateau applications, targeting Defence and Civil Defence Purposes.

Nano Aerpod marks the first-of-its-kind consumer Personal Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) developed and manufactured in India, setting the stage for future advancements.

Targeted Applications:

Nano Aerpod is designed for versatile applications, catering to both indoor and outdoor environments. Its efficacy extends to industries and manufacturing units, chemical and fertilizer industries, individuals with respiratory complaints, traffic police, Toll Operators, Civil defence, hospitals, mining fields, construction sites, nucleic acid sampling stations, pharmaceutical and clean rooms, ensuring clean air in diverse settings.

Key Features and Advantages:

Wearable & Personal: Nano Aerpod is a HEPA-filter-equipped wearable device providing optimal protection against viruses and bacteria.

Advanced Filtration: H13 filter with a filtration efficiency of 99.9%, surpassing N95 mask standards.

Long-lasting: Rechargeable batteries ensure extended use, with easy sterilization for added convenience.

Comfortable Design: Engineered for comfort, the device boasts an adjustable wind speed system for personalized use.

IoT-Enabled Future Products: FLH Kleanair plans to launch a line of IoT-enabled consumer products, showcasing its commitment to continuous innovation.

Future Product Lines:

In 2023, FLH Kleanair secured incubation with IITM, reflecting its dedication to cutting-edge technology. The startup is actively working on high-altitude and plateau applications for defense purposes, currently in the R&D stage. Future product lines include personal air purifier helmets for riders, cyclists, and fitness enthusiasts who face daily exposure to polluted air.

Certifications and Standards:

Nano Aerpod holds various certifications, including ISO 9001-2015, CE, EMC (Medical grade test), Make in India, and Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) Directorate Gov of India. It complies with IEC 60601-1 for Medical Electrical Equipment.

Nano Aerpod represents a significant leap towards a cleaner and healthier future, offering a portable and efficient solution to combat air pollution. With its innovative design and advanced features, Nano Aerpod is set to redefine personal air purification in India.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Nano Aerpod – India’s first Personal Air Purifier – Available currently in amazon.in & jiomart Pan India delivery.

FLH Kleanair And Klean Energy India Pvt Ltd

Wecare@aerpod.in
www.aerpod.in

SBICAPS and Habitat for Humanity India refurbish public health centres in Palghar, Maharashtra

Mumbai,2nd December 2023: Habitat for Humanity India, the leading housing non-profit organisation, in partnership with SBI Capital Markets Limited (SBICAPS) – India’s leading investment bank – is proud to announce the successful completion and handover of four refurbished healthcare centres in Dahanu block of Palghar district, Maharashtra. The healthcare centres were handed over to the district medical authorities on 1 st December 2023 in the presence of Shri Rajay Sinha – Managing Director and CEO, SBICAPS; Mr. Shesh Ram Verma – President and Chief Operating Officer, SBICAPS; Mr. Krishnan Kutty – Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, SBICAPS; Mr.  Roshan Negi – Head, Corporate Communication and CSR, SBICAPS; Dr Vijay Thakkar – Medical
Officer, Malwada Primary Health Centre; Dr Mahendra Navare – Medical Officer, Dabhadi Dispensary; and Dr Nitin Gosavi, Medical Officer, Chalani Dispensary. They were joined by the local community and Habitat India’s programmes team.

 The project involved repairing and refurbishing the Primary Health Centre of Malwada, the sub-centre of Ranshet, and the dispensaries of Dabhadi and Chalani. These centres will serve over 71,000 individuals and provide essential healthcare services to the local community. The repair and refurbishment work included external and internal plastering, painting, improved sanitation units as well as overall plumbing, roofing, and electrical work.

 Commenting on the partnership, James Samuel, National Director (Interim), Habitat for Humanity India said, “We are excited to partner with SBI Capital Markets to build improved healthcare centres in Palghar. The refurbished infrastructure will help the medical team perform their duties in healthier working conditions and will enable them to provide their services to low-income families in the region efficiently. Habitat for Humanity India is committed to put people at the centre of its work.”

 SBICAPS has been supporting several social initiatives across healthcare, education, environment, poverty alleviation, child development, vocational training and women empowerment, actively pursuing and endorsing community improvement efforts in varying capacities, across India under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme. Over the past few years, the ‘upgradation of primary healthcare facilities’ has been one of the flagship initiatives under SBICAPS’ CSR programme, considering the impact of the COVID pandemic. The Company has been working towards making basic healthcare facilities accessible to all, allocating a substantial amount of CSR funds to this initiative and over the past 3 years, it has supported 15 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHC) and 1 Community Healthcare centre across various districts of Maharashtra, in its bid to strengthen the primary health care system and addresses the health and well-being of all sections of society.

Vietnam surgeon shows new treatment techniques for Facial Palsy in Thane

Advanced treatment for Facial palsy now available at Solaris Hospital

 Mumbai- Thane:– With the hope of newer treatment options for Facial Palsy in Thane Dr. Ashesh Bhumkar –Advisor AOI, Thane, Dr. Sunil Budhalani President of Association of Otolaryngologist of India (Thane Zone) Dr. Deepak Aiwale Neurologist and chairmen of Solaris Hospital, Thane, Dr. Amit Aiwale, Neurosurgeon and Director of Solaris Hospital Thane and the entire team of AOI thane chapter has conducted seminars where international guest speakers from Vietnam Dr. Ha and Dr. Huyen elaborated on the different techniques for facial palsy. This meeting was attended by more than 200 Doctors in Thane. The newer options for the treatment of Facial Palsy include facial nerve selective necrolysis, facial masseter nerve anastomosis, facial hypoglossal anastomosis, gracilis muscle graft and reconstruction. The outcome of these techniques is very successful narrated by Dr. Ha and Dr. Huyen from Vietnam.

 Commenting on this Dr. Amit Aiwale, Neurosurgeon says, “Many patients have one side facial paralysis which causes deviation of angle of mouth and difficulty in closing eyes. The smile becomes unbalanced. It creates social embarrassment for many patients who avoid going to social gatherings and overall affects their social life. The causes of facial paralysis are like bell’s palsy, skull base tumors, trauma, stroke, and infection of the ears and skull base. 70% managed with medical management and steroids. But many have permanent palsy or residual defects. After 1 year of treatment, many have facial muscle atrophy and the treatment outcome is poor. Our initiative of Advanced Facial Palsy Clinic at Solaris Hospital a leading center for facial paralysis surgery in India. We are a specialty center for the correction of drooping mouths. This most commonly is caused by facial paralysis. We offer advanced treatments with the latest innovations from around the world.”

 Dr. Ashesh Bhumkar who is one of the renowned international faculties all over the world in microtia patients for ear reconstruction has taken a step forward to give a proper smile to facial palsy through the Facial palsy clinic in association with Dr. Deepak Aiwale (Neurologist) and Dr. Amit Aiwale (Neurosurgeon) from Solaris Hospital in Thane. Solaris Hospital is one of the advanced hospitals in Thane for all Neurology and Neurosurgery patients. Dr. Ashesh Bhumkar has always done work to put India’s name on the World Map. This initiative of Facial Palsy Clinic at Solaris Hospital will definitely help the patient to get back their smile and such kind of advanced clinics where these specialized treatment options are possible in India are needed, said Dr. Deepak Aiwale, Chairman of Solaris Hospital, Thane.

An Octogenarian Gets Mobility with Robotic Precision: Narayana Health City Performs 100 Robotic Knee Surgeries in Two Months

Of 100 patients treated, 53 % were female and a significant 87% were over the age of 60 years

 Bengaluru, November 30, 2023: Mrs. Nagma (name changed), an 82-year-old patient who had been immobile for nearly ten years due to severe knee arthritis, discovered a renewed sense of freedom at Narayana Health City in Bengaluru. Through a groundbreaking robotic knee surgery conducted by a highly skilled team of doctors, she regained her mobility. This remarkable success story represents just one among the 100 cases of robotic knee replacements performed within a span of just two months by the exceptional orthopedic team at Narayana Health City.

 “Robotic knee replacement has almost given me a new life,” said Mrs. Nagma, echoing the sentiments of numerous patients who have benefitted from this cutting-edge procedure. Looking at my advanced age & the fact that I suffer from diabetes, I was very much concerned about the recovery process. But the precision, technology, and doctors’ passion for restoring my mobility amazed me. The scar is minimal and the doctor made me walk the same day itself, which surprised me” said Mrs Nagma.

Robotic Knee Replacement surgeries have emerged as a preferred choice for patients seeking a more precise and advanced solution for knee problems. Narayana Health City’s data from the last two months underpins the growing popularity of this procedure amongst patients. During this time frame, 100 total knee replacement (TKR) procedures were done using robotic technology. Out of these, 53% of patients were females and a significant 87% were over the age of 60 years, underscoring the growing popularity of this technology across demographics.

 The Hospital’s adoption of advanced robotic knee replacement technology offers a new paradigm of care. Compared to conventional procedures, Robotic Knee surgery is more accurate due to the level of precision it offers which is beyond the natural ability of the human eye. This allows for accurate implant positioning and personalization. Robotic-assisted surgery uses minimally-invasive incisions making the procedure safer as there is less tissue damage. This also results in less scarring, a lower risk of infection, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery. Overall, doctors at Narayana Health City have recorded a remarkable success rate with Robotic Knee Replacements. Also, Patients with comorbidities have benefitted from a safer option, same-day mobility, and minimal blood loss which has contributed to greater patient satisfaction.

Emphasizing the transformative nature of innovation, Professor. Arun Ranganathan, Senior Consultant for Orthopedics, Spine and Trauma at Narayana Health City said, “Empowering patients with precision and pioneering advancements in orthopedic care is not just a duty—it’s a passion. In the realm of robotic knee replacement at Narayana Health City, we don’t just mend joints, we restore lives.”

 “Every innovation is a step towards a future where mobility knows no bounds. Our dedication to pioneering advancements in orthopedic care is unwavering. The robotic knee replacements at Narayana Health City are not just procedures; they are a testament to our commitment to excellence in patient-centered healthcare,” added Professor. Ranganathan.

 Robotic Knee Replacement surgeries have truly revolutionized the Orthopaedic field, providing patients with a level of precision and safety that was once unimaginable. During the procedure, real-time mapping is conducted to generate a 3D model of the patient’s knee. While a robotic arm or device assists the procedure, surgeons remain in full control and their expertise enhances the clinical outcomes.

 Narayana Health City offers a comprehensive continuum of care that commences with the Outpatient Department, encompasses our cutting-edge Robotic Knee Program, and culminates with our state-of-the-art Physiotherapy department, all working in tandem to deliver superior clinical outcomes.

 As per reports, it is estimated that over 15 crore Indians suffer from knee problems and nearly four crore patients are in need of a total knee replacement (TKR). In the next decade or so, knee arthritis is expected to emerge as the fourth most common cause of physical disability in India. According to experts, there is a huge gap that needs to be filled up. Robotic Knee Replacement surgeries have emerged as a preferred choice for patients seeking a more precise and advanced solution for knee problems.