21, Oct 2023
The next big thing in Medicine is ‘Gut Microbiome’: Dr. D. Nageshwar Reddy

The next big thing in Medicine is ‘Gut Microbiome’: Dr. D. Nageshwar Reddy

Hyderabad, October 21, 2023:FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO), Hyderabad Chapter organised a “Healthier Women, Healthier Society”, a colloquium on women’s health in association with AIG Hospitals at its premises in Gachibowli on Friday. It was organised as part of sustaining her health initiative of FLO, said its chairperson Ritu Shah, while giving her welcome address.

Dr. D. Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman and Chief of Gastroenterology; Dr Pragnya Chigurupati, Consultant Breast Surgeon; Dr Sujana Priya, Consultant Radiation Oncologist and Dr Indraja Siripurapu, Consultant Medical Oncologist participated in the colloquium.

The Next big thing in Medicine is the Gut Microbiome, said Dr D. Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman and Chief of Gastroenterology, at AIG Hospitals while addressing the session.

The gut breaks down the foods we eat and absorbs nutrients that support the body’s functions. The importance of the gut to our overall health is a topic of increasing research in the medical community now. Research is showing us that our gut microbiome can affect every organ in our body, added Dr Reddy.

One of my friend’s daughter was once caught in drunken driving. But to the rude shock of everybody she never touched alcohol in her life but this has happened. She had to pay the fine and got out. Subsequently, we found that it happened because of a medical condition called ‘Auto Brewery Syndrome’. This means her stomach had a brewery factory. Subsequently, we produced this in court and got over the problem, said Dr Nageshwar Reddy.

But now Gut Health is the topic of the world. Our stomach is full of bacteria both good and bad. The stomach has billions of bacteria. It has 1000 species in the intestine, ten times more than our body. In my friend’s daughter’s case, she acquired bad bacteria in childhood.

A lot of us squire bad bacteria may be due to an unnecessary cesarean section, not breastfeeding the baby, or excessive usage of antibiotics. If both bacteria good and bad in the stomach fight each other and if the bad bacteria win, it leads to many health problems. Profiles of good bacteria and bad bacteria can be done by testing stool. Probiotics are good bacteria. Yogurt is a good source. Commercial yogurt may not be good. Homemade yogurt is good. Prebiotics which are found in vegetables and fruits are good. Almonds which contain Tyrosine are also good sources for bacteria.

If you are obese, following a strict diet, exercising sufficiently still if you are not losing weight, bad bacteria may be the reason Dr Nageshwar Reddy said. Some Bacteria make us lazy and some make us active for exercise, he explained.

Speaking further the well-known gastroenterologist in the country said diet influences bacteria. The best food to eat is the Mediterranean. We developed an IndMed Diet mix of Indian and Mediterranean food with the help of the world’s best nutrition institute in Israel, he said.

Faecal transplantation is a procedure to collect feces, also called stool from a healthy donor and introduce them into a patient’s gastrointestinal tract. The procedure can control an infection called Clostridium difficile by adding healthy bacteria into the recipient’s intestines.

Patients who used odorless freeze-dried stool from healthy donors had a significant improvement in the health of their gut bacteria in a small study. This helps in treating hard-to-treat infections, Dr Reddy informed

I noticed in one of my visits abroad to the Asian Stool Bank. Similar Blood Bank, Breast Milk Bank, and Stool Banks have come up now. These stool banks freeze, preserve and bank donor stool which improves the condition of the patient. Stool banks safely collect, store, and distribute stool products for treatment, Dr Nageshwar Reddy shared much to the surprise of the audience.

The Asia Microbiota Bank (AMB) is a Hong Kong-based social enterprise. Based out of Hong Kong it is one of the first cities in Asia to offer this innovative treatment, and the first in Asia to have an organized stool bank.

Following his talk was a panel discussion on Women’s Health. Dr Pragnya Chigurupati, Consultant Breast Surgeon; Dr Sujana Priya, Consultant Radiation Oncologist and Dr Indraja Siripurapu, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Ritu Shah, Dr Shwetha, Ms Arshiya Afsar participated

They spoke about why breast cancer is spreading at an alarming rate.?

Some of the reasons Dr Pragnya said were partly due to diet, stress, workload, sedentary lifestyle, avoiding breastfeeding etc and others.

Now women of 25 to 40 years are suffering from cancer, observed one of the speakers.

Over 100 FLO members joined this program.

10, Oct 2023
MediBuddy Unveils LoseTheMentalWeight Campaign on World Mental Health Day

Mumbai, October 10, 2023: MediBuddy, India’s largest digital healthcare platform known for innovative healthcare solutions, has launched the #LoseTheMentalWeight campaign in honor of World Mental Health Day. This campaign highlights the importance of accessible, convenient mental healthcare services while challenging the stigma surrounding mental health.

Mental health affects millions of lives across the globe, and the #LoseTheMentalWeight campaign seeks to dismantle the walls of silence that have long surrounded it. MediBuddy recognizes that mental health has long been a topic of stigma, causing many to silently deal with their struggles. This campaign is dedicated to destigmatizing mental health issues and creating a safe space for individuals to share their experiences. Through this campaign, the aim is to cast a spotlight on this critical issue and foster positive conversations around mental health. With a vision to make high-quality healthcare accessible for a billion Indians, MediBuddy is stepping up as your buddy for better mental health. The campaign will be made live on October 10, 2023, on the World Mental Health Day.

Speaking about the campaign, Mr. Saibal Biswas, Head of Marketing, Partnerships & PR at MediBuddy, said, “Conversations about mental health and well-being are imperative, and it’s high time that it is given the recognition it deserves, just like physical health. This campaign aims to emphasize the immediate connection with specialists within 10 minutes, ensuring 100% privacy and confidentiality, 24/7 accessibility, and a secure and comfortable space for online video doctor consultations. At MediBuddy, we aim to destigmatize mental health issues and enable safe spaces for individuals to share their experiences. #LoseTheMentalWeight seeks to draw attention to the need for improved mental health services, better access to care, and the power of community support in helping those in need reach out for help.”

MediBuddy Unveils LoseTheMentalWeight Campaign on World Mental Health Day

#LoseTheMentalWeight advocates for improved mental health services and access to better care. The campaign recognizes that mental health is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being and promotes positive changes in mental healthcare through increased awareness and dialogue. This campaign is conceptualized and produced by MediBuddy’s in-house creative team. The campaign video is titled #LoseTheMentalWeight and is 1 Minute 18 seconds in duration. The video will be amplified across all social media platforms.

MediBuddy’s #LoseTheMentalWeight campaign seeks to remind everyone that it’s okay not to be okay and that help is readily available. This World Mental Health Day, join us in creating a world where mental health is a priority, stigma is replaced by understanding, and support is just a click away.

10, Oct 2023
Sunrise Multispecialty Hospital Becomes a Leading Healthcare Provider For Economically Backward Individuals

sunrise

New Delhi: 10 Oct 2023: Located in Jamia Nagar-Shaheen Bagh, Delhi, Sunrise Multispecialty Hospital has emerged as a prominent healthcare provider for economically backward individuals. The hospital specializes in Gynecology, Dermatology, and Aesthetics services, providing high-quality medical care at affordable rates. Additionally, it also regularly organizes health camps to ensure healthcare accessibility for all.

The services offered here are primarily focused on women’s health, and the hospital is committed to providing comprehensive healthcare for their well-being. Mr. Mujeeb Alam Saifi, Co-founder of the Skin and Aesthetic Center at Sunrise Multispecialty Hospital, states, “Sunrise Multispecialty Hospital proved that quality healthcare can reach to everyone, regardless of their financial circumstances. Aim of the hospital is to prioritize healthcare access for all, enabling people to lead healthy and balanced lives. To achieve this, hospital also organize health camps periodically.”

He further stated, “The hospital’s Gynecology department offers extensive healthcare services for women of all ages, with a team of experienced specialists providing maternity services, surgery, and expertise in reproductive health.” Mr. Gaurav Trehan, from the hospital’s Financial and Management Department, said, “We aim to improve the health of our community, especially those with limited financial resources. Success in this endeavor can lead to a more better and healthy country.”

sunrise2

Located at J-51/52, Kalindi Kunj Road, Jasola in New Delhi, Sunrise Multispecialty Hospital prioritizes healthcare services for residents of Delhi and its surrounding areas. The hospital’s mission is to ensure that quality healthcare remains accessible to all. The hospital also have Skin and Aesthetic Department where a team of specialized doctors provides a range of cosmetic procedures, including dermatology and aesthetics.

Sunrise Multispecialty Hospital offers emergency and ambulance services, general medicine, general surgery, pediatrics, orthopedics, neurology, ENT, gastroenterology, pulmonology, cardiology, radiology, and various diagnostic services. Furthermore, the hospital includes dialysis, ICU, NICU, private, and general wards, ensuring patients receive comfortable and secure care. Sunrise Multispecialty Hospital is dedicated to fulfilling the healthcare needs of the community and has risen as a leading healthcare provider for economically backward individuals, with a particular focus on women’s health, dermatology, and aesthetics services.

9, Oct 2023
Over 1200 Healthcare Professionals, 420+ Hospitals and Clinics across 277 cities joined forces in Glenmark’s “TakeCharge@18” initiative

Over 1200 Healthcare Professionals, 420+ Hospitals and Clinics across 277 cities joined forces in Glenmark’s “TakeCharge@18” initiative

Bangalore, India, October 10, 2023: Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Limited (“Glenmark Pharma”), a research-led, integrated, global pharmaceutical company once again reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to cardiovascular health. The company collaborated with over 1200 healthcare professionals (HCPs) from 420+ hospitals and clinics spanning 277 cities and towns across India as a part of their ongoing “Take Charge @18” campaign. The initiative witnessed 410 awareness rallies organized throughout September which was observed as “World Heart Month” by the organization.

According to the World Heart Report 2023, CVDs are the leading cause of mortality and amount to about a third of all global deaths. As per World Health Organization (2016), in India, Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including Cardio Vascular Diseases, are estimated to account for 60% of total adult deaths of which CVDs account for over a quarter (26%) of these deaths i.e. 17.7 million. Among the myriad risk factors for CVDs, high blood pressure stands out as one of the most significant contributors.

Glenmark’s “Take Charge @18” campaign was conceived with a singular objective, to raise awareness about the critical importance of proactive heart health management starting as early as 18 years of age.

Key Highlights of the World Heart Month Awareness Rallies:

1. Nationwide Reach: Glenmark Pharma’s collaboration with healthcare professionals extended to every nook and cranny of India, encompassing cities, towns, and rural areas. This expansive reach ensured that the vital message of heart health touched the lives of diverse populations

2. Partnering with Healthcare Professionals: The 410 awareness rallies provided a platform for individuals to come together and gain valuable insights into heart health. These rallies featured doctor sessions that elucidated the need for early-age screening, lifestyle modifications for preventing CVDs, and practical demonstrations on the correct method of measuring blood pressure

3. Early Intervention: The campaign underscored the significance of beginning preventive measures from the age of 18. It emphasized lifestyle modifications, including adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, and effectively managing stress

In an era where proactive measures are the need of the hour, Glenmark’s “Take Charge @18” campaign sought to educate individuals about the critical role of early intervention in averting future cardiovascular complications. The campaign spotlighted blood pressure monitoring and lifestyle adjustments as powerful tools to significantly reduce the risk of CVDs.

In August 2023, Glenmark Pharma further expanded its commitment by partnering with OMRON Healthcare India, the Indian arm of the Japanese global leader in measuring blood pressure at home from the age of 18. The initiative included in-clinic education for around 92,000 healthcare professionals (HCPs), youth awareness programs for college students, and outreach to 200 million people through multiple channels including its digital platform: www.bpincontrol.in.

9, Oct 2023
World Mental Health Day: Fostering Mental Health Resilience in the Workplace

 World Mental Health Day: Fostering Mental Health Resilience in the Workplace

Mumbai, 10th October – Ahead of the World Mental Health Day on 10 October, International SOS, the world’s leading health and security risk services company, puts a spotlight on the increasing importance of mental health resilience for global workforces. In a global landscape in which there are ongoing poly- and permacrises, the impact of these challenges on the mental health of employees has never been more significant. A global pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis, geopolitical challenges and the accelerating rate of change in today’s workplace have placed unprecedented stressors on individuals and organisations worldwide.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that 15% of working-age adults lived with a mental disorder in 2019, and 12 billion working days are lost every year to depression and anxiety alone1. International SOS Assistance Centre has already seen a 5% increase in the number of requests for assistance related to mental illness during the first half of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022. Poor working environments, including discrimination and inequality, excessive workloads, low job control and job insecurity all pose a risk to mental health. Without effective support, mental illness can impact an individual’s capacity to work productively, absences and the ease with which they can retain or gain work.

Dr. Vikram Vora, Medical Director at International SOS said, “Indian subcontinent highlights that the unique challenge of having 1 out of every 7 Indians affected by mental health and wellbeing issues can only be met through a comprehensive understanding of the psychosocial risk landscape followed by concrete and coordinated action. Employers, leaders and managers need to be aware and accept that the rapidly evolving world of today, especially after the pandemic, is no longer a place where employees feel naturally safe and protected. Problems like economic uncertainty, uncertain employment, growing infectious diseases, climate anxiety and geopolitical crises, expose employees to unforeseen risks. Organizations would do well to reassess their employee health and well-being strategies to identify gaps and fill them in the quickest possible time.”

He adds, “The continuum for workers with mental ill-being encompasses awareness, de-stigmatization, identification, addressal, rehabilitation and mainstream re-integration. Programs that include these steps have the highest likelihood of making a difference to employee lives.”

Dr Oliver Harrison, CEO of Koa Health, a leading global provider of digital-first mental healthcare, said, “We live in challenging times, with cost-of-living pressures worldwide, recovery from the pandemic and conflict in Europe against a backdrop of the climate crisis. In this context, mental health resilience has become a critical matter for organisations, public and private. With the shortage of mental healthcare professionals reaching record highs, even those employees with a clinical diagnosis struggle to access the support they need.”

International SOS provides a framework for organisations to safeguard the mental health and wellbeing of their employees:

  1. 1.Foster a supportive work culture and ensure leadership commitment: Create a workplace culture and environment that prioritises and encourages open dialogue on mental health. Integrate mental health initiatives into relevant policies and practices that support it.
  2. Promote mental health awareness: Implement comprehensive mental health awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and encourage open dialogue.
  3. Provide accessible resources: Ensure employees have a toolkit of mental health resources at their fingertips, from counselling to self-guidance materials.
  4. Adapt to individual needs: Offer flexible work arrangements to accommodate individual needs and reduce work-related stress.
  5. Training and education: Roll out mental health training, enabling everyone to spot, understand and assist with mental health challenges.
  6. Monitor and assess: Seek feedback and continuously monitor the mental health of employees through surveys and assessments to adapt programmes as needed.
  7. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Provide EAPs that offer confidential counselling and support services to employees. Digitally enabled mental health care, such as the Koa Foundations Wellbeing App, allows organisations to maximise EAP and existing services uptake and widen access to care while containing or significantly reducing costs.
9, Oct 2023
Sakra World Hospital Celebrates World Heart Day with a Heart-Healthy Walkathon

Sakra World Hospital Celebrates World Heart Day with a Heart-Healthy Walkathon

Bengaluru, October 10, 2023 – Sakra World Hospital in Bengaluru is renowned for delivering top-notch healthcare while prioritizing patients’ well-being. On this World Heart Day, Sakra World Hospital proudly organized a Walkathon within its premises. The event commenced in the presence of Mr. Yuichi Nagano, Managing Director; Mr. Naoya Matsumi, the Deputy Managing Director; Mr. Lovekesh Phasu, our Group COO; and esteemed healthcare experts: Dr. Sreekanth Shetty, Senior Consultant and Head of Interventional Cardiology; Dr. Adil Sadiq, Head and Senior Consultant of cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery; and Dr. Deepak Krishnamurthy, Senior Consultant of Interventional Cardiology at Sakra World Hospital.

The World Heart Day Walkathon is a vital initiative promoting heart health and a heart-healthy lifestyle for all ages. Given the global significance of heart issues, it’s a powerful reminder to prioritize heart health and adopt healthier habits. This event combined education and activity to keep our hearts in top shape.

Dr. Sreekanth Shetty, the Senior Consultant and head of Interventional Cardiology at Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru explained, “Walking is a straightforward and efficient aerobic exercise that promotes heart health. It enhances heart strength, circulation, and lung capacity, while reducing blood pressure, aiding weight control, and improving blood sugar and cholesterol levels.”

Dr. Adil Sadiq, the Head and Senior Consultant of cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery at Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru said, “Heart health issues are increasing in our sedentary modern lives. Blood circulation is crucial for a healthy heart. A Walkathon can revitalize our hearts by enhancing blood flow, strengthening the heart muscle, and reducing risk factors. It’s a simple way to promote heart health and reduce the risk of heart-related problems.”

Dr. Deepak Krishnamurthy, the Senior Consultant of Interventional Cardiology at Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru said, “A mere 2.5 hours of brisk walking each week can enhance heart health and lower the risk of premature death. Therefore, take a stroll to improve your heart’s well-being.”

Mr. Lovekesh Phasu, Group COO of Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru said, “The Walkathon is to encourage people to take a break, go for a leisurely walk, and learn about heart health.”

6, Oct 2023
Desai Pathology introduces RT-PCR testing for over 20 infectious diseases in Kolhapur

Desai Pathology introduces RT-PCR testing for over 20 infectious diseases in Kolhapur

Kolhapur, October 6, 2023 – A new era of high-end and affordable diagnostics has dawned upon in Kolhapur. The city-based Desai Pathology, a state-of-the-art laboratory has introduced comprehensive range of RT-PCR tests for more accurate test reports. By establishing a Healthtech partnership by Mylab, Desai Pathology becomes the first lab in Kolhapurto provide RT-PCR testing for an array of diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis C and B, Blood Donor Testing, Tuberculosis, Chikungunya, Dengue, Malaria, and Various Bacterial Infections, Cancer and genetic diseases.

Desai Pathology is equipped with the latest diagnostic machines from Mylab and staffed by a team of highly skilled professionals dedicated to providing accurate and timely results. This ensures that individuals in the city can receive the necessary tests promptly and efficiently, without the need to travel to distant facilities. Moreover, the patients can expect reduced waiting periods, enabling healthcare providers to promptly diagnose and initiate appropriate treatment plans.

Dr. Sanjay Desai, Owner of Desai Pathology., said, “Healthtech partnership by Mylabhas empowered us to deliver precise and personalized care, and elevates our reputation as a trusted diagnostic center. By embracing molecular diagnostics, we are better equipped to meet the needs of our patients and doctors. We invite residents to experience the convenience and reliability of our testing services.”

Dr. Gautam Wankhede, Director of Medical Affairs, Mylab Discovery Solutions said,.”Mylab’s fever panel is a hugely beneficial kit as it enables testing of multiple diseases such as Malaria, Chikungunya, Dengue, Zika, Leptospirosis and Salmonellosis bacterial species, and Leishmaniasis parasite at once, saving time and resources. Many of these diseases remain undiagnosed due to the similar nature of initial symptoms while the course of treatment is different for each. Hence, it is important to do a test with wide species coverage, which can identify and differentiate the infection source.”

‘Healthtech partnership by Mylab’ is an initiative to empower entrepreneurs in the hinterland to build molecular diagnostics lab to make diagnostics accessible to remote corners of the country. The lab owners and doctors will be able to provide quicker and quality diagnostic results to the patients, leading to desired clinical outcomes. They will not need to send patient samples to sophisticated labs, thus save time and cost.

21, Sep 2023
NMIMS Bengaluru organises Walkathon to create Mental Health Awareness

NMIMS Bengaluru organises Walkathon to create Mental Health Awareness

Bengaluru, 21st September 2023: In its persevering commitment towards fostering mental health awareness, Udyam, the Corporate Social Responsibility Committee of SVKM’s NMIMS Bengaluru, recently organised a Walkathon. The theme of the walkathon was ‘Walk for a Cause: Mental Health Awareness’ for its School of Business Management (SBM) students.

The Walkathon began with students assembling at the Royal Meenakshi Mall. The journey concluded at Windsor Amulyam. The 5 Km journey was replete with students expressing themselves through slogans and banners demonstrating the central theme of the event. The enthusiasm and energy levels among the participants were a sight to behold. More than 150 students participated in the walkathon, making it a success.

In order to create awareness about mental health amongst the general public, an inspirational ‘Nukkad Natak’ or a street play was performed following the walk. The performance was divided into three segments. Each of the three acts covered distinct topics with the focus of making people realise the positive results of sound mental health. It was demonstrated by recreating real-life scenarios faced by the youth. The performance concluded with the message of dealing with the hard times and emerging victorious.

Professor Janaki Anant, the faculty mentor at Udyam, was the guiding light of the students throughout the event. She created a safe space for students and asked them to share their own stories of battling mental health. Each story provided deep insights into the tough times faced by students and how they embraced reality and emerged out of it successfully. The exercise reassured students that they were not alone in their MBA journey at NMIMS SBM.

The walkathon resulted in three key learnings. Firstly, how the internal and external pressures we build within us sow seeds of mental distress and the unwanted steps we end up taking regarding our lives. Secondly, how failure leads to self-doubt, pain and anguish. This further contributes to unhealthy behavioural patterns and lifestyles. Lastly, seeking the right help and support can actually help us to release and overcome the burden of the unaddressed trauma within.

The success of the walkathon was a result of Udyam’s commitment towards increasing
public awareness about mental health. The committee is aimed at contributing
to making the world more liveable and equitable. It is also a testament to the changing times and the NMIMS’ commitment towards creating healthier campuses.

Commending the success of the event, Dr. Narayani Ramachandran, Deputy Director, NMIMS Bengaluru, said, “The success of the walkathon on mental awareness exemplifies the positive change we’re witnessing, which calls for an environment conducive for growth and happiness. The event reflects NMIMS Bengaluru’s commitment to shaping a better society, where we shun the stigma around health issues. Rather, we must together create a place where mental wellbeing is prioritised and positivity is encouraged.”

Ms. Gitanjana, the Counsellor at NMIMS Bengaluru, infused a sense of optimism and positive energy through her words. Stressing the importance of seeking help and overcoming hardships when the going gets tough, she shared, “In the face of adversity, it is important to embrace the strength in seeking help and supporting one another. Let’s aim to foster a community where seeking therapy is seen as a courageous step towards personal growth.”

21, Sep 2023
Gleneagles Global Health City Successfully Performed Breakthrough Surgery by Removing Two Mirror Image Tumor in the Eloquent Brain


Gleneagles Global Health City

Chennai, September 21st, 2023: Gleneagles Global Health City a leading tertiary care hospital in Perumbakkam, Chennai has successfully performed India’s first breakthrough complex brain surgery of a 38-year-old man from Chennai. A team of expert Neurosurgeons effectively removed two tumors in Mirror Image fashion in both left and right side of the eloquent brain. Usually, this surgery is very risky in nature, because if complications occur the patient could turn blind. They went ahead and risks were explained to the patient and surgery done in timely manner to save the life of 38-year-old professional. The surgery was conducted in two-stages and took just over 10 hours in total.

38-year-old professional from Chennai had a rare incidence of having tumor on both the right and left side of the brain. The size of each tumor was of 5 x 7 cms and were located in the parieto-occipital area of the right and left side of the brain, the area concerned with vision. The professional had exhibited symptoms like recurrent headaches with visual seizures for the past three months.

Dr. Nigel P Symss and his team conducted several assessments and special MRI scans on the patient prior to the surgery. The patient was advised to undergo two-staged procedure called Right and Left Parieto Occipital Craniotomy and excision of space occupying lesion, which is considered as one of the high-risk procedures in brain surgery. The conduct of the surgery is dependent on precision, expertise and high-end technology, using Microneurosurgery, Navigation and Intraoperative Neuromonitoring. The patient was counselled and was prepared for this two-staged high-risk procedure. It was also informed that the delay in the removal of the tumors could result in worsening of vision and other serious complications.

The patient first underwent right parieto-occipital craniotomy and excision of right parieto occipital lesion. Post operative period were uneventful and he was discharged home after 5 days. He was prepared for second stage surgery conducted two weeks later and the left parieto occipital craniotomy and excision of left parieto occipital lesion was done. Post the staged procedures patient has recovered and he continues to have 80 to 90 percent of his vision in both eyes without complications and he was discharged after four days post the second successful surgery.

Praising the team on the success of the case, Dr. Alok Khullar, CEO, Gleneagles Global Health City, Chennai said, “We are extremely pleased with the outcome of this difficult surgery. It is India’s first breakthrough surgery in this location, and our hospital is proud to be associated with it. Our team of doctors’ excellent knowledge and surgical talents, along with recent technological breakthroughs, have enabled this young man to live a normal life.”

Explaining about the case, Dr. Nigel Symss, Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon, Gleneagles Global Health City, Chennai, said, bilateral “Parieto Occipital Craniotomy involves high risk as the procedure includes opening of the skull on both sides and removing tumour from the area of brain concerned with vision, and any complications can cause blindness to the patient. The surgical process was cumbersome as there was the removal of two tumors on either side of the brain in a critical part of the brain. It was a risk but essential to conduct this procedure as the patient was in a condition which could save his life or further leave him blind. This surgery is definitely a breakthrough and showcases our expertise and technical advancements offered by our hospital.”

“It’s a new beginning for me, a chance to embrace life and all its possibilities. The skilled medical team and their dedication made this possible, and I am filled with hope for a brighter and healthier future. This surgery has given me a second chance at life, and I am determined to make the most of it, cherishing each moment and valuing the gift of good health”, said the Patient.

Speaking about Brain Tumor cases in India, Dr Dinesh Nayak, Director of Department of Neurology & Advanced center for Epilepsy, Gleneagles Global Health City said, “The incidence of brain tumors ranges from 5 to 10 per 100,000 people in India. The symptoms and indicators of a brain tumor differ depending on which area of the brain is affected. The first and most common symptom is headache, which can be severe and prolonged, and is often accompanied by vomiting. Seizures, weakness or one-sided paralysis of limbs, vision, hearing, or speech abnormalities, and memory issues or behavioural changes are among the additional symptoms. To confirm the brain tumor, patients must undergo an MRI or CT scan of the brain. Surgery, known as craniotomy and tumor excision, is the primary treatment for various types of brain tumors” added, Dr. Dinesh Nayak.

Orbis Sets up Regional Training Center for Patient Communication
13, Sep 2023
Orbis Sets up Regional Training Center for Patient Communication at PBMA’s H.V. Desai Eye Hospital

September 13, 2023: To strengthen the patient counseling infrastructure, Orbis, an international non-profit working towards the prevention and treatment of avoidable blindness, established a regional training center at its partner hospital PBMA’s H.V. Desai Eye Hospital, Pune on 11 September 2023. This strategic move aims to fortify the patient counseling infrastructure, ultimately elevating the quality of care being provided. Supported by the Foundation for Health and Mind Development, the regional training center will serve as a hub for offering courses and regular training programs on patient counseling and education for other hospitals in the western region of India. Patient counseling and education play a vital role in comprehensive medical and surgical treatment management.

The inauguration ceremony witnessed distinguished dignitaries, with Kenneth Youngstein, Founder of Foundation for Health and Mind Development, as the Chief Guest, and Rosemarie Barthelot, Regional HR Partner-Asia at Orbis, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honor.

Dr Rishi Raj Borah, Country Director – India, Orbis said, “Patient counselling is essential empower the patients and their families with to make informed decisions about their health and treatment. Effective patient counseling not only builds trust but also results in greater patient compliance.”

Speaking on the importance of patient counseling, Kenneth Youngstein, Founder, Foundation for Health and Mind Development, said, “It is only natural for a person to have their share of uncertainty and fear before opting for any surgical intervention or medical treatment. This is where communication between a counselor, the patient, and the patient’s family plays a critical role. This counseling will encompass identifying and addressing patient concerns, possible risks, benefits, or any complications associated with the medical intervention. Patient counseling makes traversing the whole treatment process easy for the patient and the family and ensures the best outcome.”

Rosemarie Barthelot, Regional HR Partner– Asia, Orbis said, “Through comprehensive training, we aim to equip healthcare professionals with the skills they need to provide compassionate and empathetic patient counseling and institutionalize the processes by inviting management and leadership buy-in.”

Dr. Kuldeep Dole, Medical Director, PBMA’s H.V. Desai Eye Hospital said, “Besides strengthening the counseling department of our hospital, this initiative will bolster the patient-doctor relationship as well. The move will ensure that patients, in addition, to receiving medical care, will be lent an empathetic ear to address and assuage any issues pertinent to treatment. This will lead to achieving greater patient satisfaction. The approach offers a win-win situation: while patient counseling gives the patients an assurance of being in safe hands, the hospital will be able to track its development as an institution through metrics such as surgical conversion rate, compliance to follow–up, reduction in patient drop-out rates, among others.”

As part of the Orbis initiative, the counseling and waiting room areas of the PBMA’s H.V. Desai Eye Hospital have been refurbished to create a positive environment for counseling. The training involves structured courses and curriculum on patient counseling and education with a mix of in-person and online sessions. Counselors will be trained to simplify medical jargon while discussing eye conditions with patients and their families and equipping them to with the knowledge to make decisions about their health and treatment plans.