Category Archives: Health

Invitation to hope camp for motherhood by Gunasheela

Bengaluru 23 November 2023- With 47 years behind them Gunasheela has created miracles for birth. The torchbearers of IVF in Bengaluru have a track record of handling over 100,000 pregnancies with 74% success rate in IVF supported by over 20 fertility experts. Here is an invitation for “wanting mothers” to be part of the camp which is scheduled at their Basavana Gudi centre all day long on Saturday 25 th November 2023. Now those struggling to conceive and have lost hope can come & rediscover at Gunasheela. Just register & stand to gain comprehensive diagnostic package worth Rs 3000/ absolutely free along with 50% waiver on semen analysis. Call on 46462600 or 26673588 now.

Gunasheela boasts of:

1) Only Centre with End To End Solution For Fertility Treatment
2) Basic To Most Advanced Technologies In The World – All Under One Roof
3) Includes An In-House Exclusive Fertility Genetics Department

At Gunasheela IVF, we have been creating miracles of birth for the past 47 years. The journey so far:

1) 1982 – 1st to introduce Obstetric & Gynaecology Ultrasound in the state of Karnataka.
2) 1982 – 1st to introduce the skill of Hysteroscopy to the state of Karnataka.
3) 1988 – 1st ART baby in South India born on December 5th 1988.
4) 2003 – 1st to publish from India 3 international articles back to back on human blastocyst hatching and critical evaluation.
5) 2003 – 1st In-Vitro Maturation baby in India.
6) 2011 – 5th Baby in the world by Vitrication of IVM oocytes.
7) 2012 – 1st Embryo Scope babies (twins) in South India.
8) 2016 – 1st Pregnancy with in-house NGS based PGS tested on frozen thawed embryos in a 24 hour run.

Our Affordable IVF Treatments

– IUI (Intra Uterine Insemination)
– IVF Treatment
– FET (Frozen Embryo Transfer)
– Bariatric Surgery
– High Risk Pregnancy

Mobilising Malaria Prevention: International SOS Launches Refreshed Malaria Digital Learning

Mumbai, 22 November – Malaria remains a global health challenge that is faced by organizations worldwide and its prevention is an essential aspect of workforce health and safety. As part of an ongoing mission to support the health and well-being of the global workforce, International SOS, the world’s leading health and security risk services company, has launched a refreshed malaria digital learning module. This e-learning course is designed to equip those living in malaria-affected areas or those traveling to such regions with the knowledge and preparedness necessary to safeguard their health while abroad.

Dr. Chris Van Straten, International SOS Global Health Advisor Clinical Governance, said “International SOS has been committed to the fight against malaria for over 20 years in endemic regions, from conducting health risk assessments to implementing vector control programs and supporting community outreach. Our refreshed malaria e-learning module is instrumental in assisting organizations in fulfilling their Duty of Care by educating and empowering their workforce in malaria prevention.”

Dr. Chris added, “It is important to note that signs of malaria can often be overlooked, given their similarity to symptoms of other, less severe illnesses. This presents a significant concern, as malaria can be fatal if not promptly diagnosed and treated. Organizations with local or international workforces, especially in malaria-prone areas, need to double their efforts to protect their employees and the surrounding communities where they operate.”

Developed and written by International SOS medical experts, this course covers a comprehensive range of topics including:

· The ABCDE (Awareness, Bite prevention, Chemoprophylaxis, Diagnosis, and Emergency) prevention approach for malaria:

Providing a practical approach to promote healthy practices that reduce transmission of malaria and prevent severe illness from the disease.

· Guidelines on preparing for malaria before traveling: Equipping individuals with the necessary information to plan for a safe trip.

· Understanding malaria symptoms: Educating users to recognize the signs of malaria and the actions to take when experiencing symptoms.

· Case studies from the International SOS Assistance Centres: Offering real-world scenarios and best practices to assist those preparing to travel to remote areas.

The digital learning module is initially available in English, with French, German, Italian, Spanish, Korean, Japanese, and Simplified Chinese versions scheduled to follow in the coming months. The platform has also been designed to adhere to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, ensuring that it is accessible to a wide range of users. The course takes approximately 15 minutes to complete and can be easily accessed via the International SOS Training Portal within the Digital Learning Portfolios.

Lung Cancer Screening: Here is what you need to do!

DR K P RANGANATH, CONSULTANT – RADIATION ONCOLOGIST, HCG CANCER CENTRE, VIJAYAWADA

  Vijayawada: Lung cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the lungs. It is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Lung cancer occurs when normal lung cells undergo abnormal changes and begin to grow and divide uncontrollably, forming a mass or tumor. While smoking remains the leading cause, it’s important to note that non-smokers can also develop lung cancer. Fortunately, lung cancer screening has become a powerful tool in identifying this deadly disease at an earlier, more treatable stage.

 Screening:

 Screening is used to check if a person has any symptoms. This can help identify cancer at an early stage. Once the signs and symptoms of lung cancer manifest, it would have reached advanced stages making it difficult to treat. Lung cancer screening helps reduce the risk of succumbing to the disease. Lung cancer screening is not advised for everyone. The primary candidates for screening are individuals with a high risk of developing lung cancer due to certain key factors such as age and family history or any other potential health risk factors.

 Age and Smoking history: The primary age group for lung cancer screening is individuals in the age group 50-80 with a significant smoking history. This means any individual who has smoked one packet of cigarette for the last twenty years or has quit in the last fifteen years fall under this high-risk category.

 Other Risk Factors: Apart from smoking, other potential risk factors that contribute to the development of Lung cancer are family history, exposure to radon gas, and other carcinogens, and certain lung conditions can elevate the risk of escalating lung cancer.

 Types of Screening Method:

 The most common screening method for lung cancer is Low-Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT) scans. LDCT scans use low levels of radiation to create detailed images of the lungs, allowing healthcare practitioners to detect small abnormalities that might indicate cancer. These scans are fast, painless, and are highly effective at detecting early-stage lung cancer.

 Chest X-ray is used to check for any signs of lung cancer in an individual. Sputum Cytology is a procedure in which a sample of sputum is viewed under a microscope to check for cancer cells.

Among these three, LDCT is fast and painless and can also reduce the risk of succumbing to the disease. Chest X-ray and Sputum Cytology are considered beneficial but not equivalent to LDCT.

 Screening methods have their own share of potential risks and drawbacks. While getting screened does not help in living long, Chest X-rays and Sputum Cytology involve exposure of the chest to harmful radiation which in turn can lead to an increase in other medical vulnerabilities.

 Significance of Early Detection:

 Detecting lung cancer in its initial stages proves to be significant for a variety of reasons:

1. Enhanced survival rates: Since lung cancer is asymptomatic in its initial stages and detection becomes difficult, early screening proves to be significant as the disease can be detected paving the way for better survival rates.

 2. Less Aggressive Treatment Methods: Advanced stages of lung cancer require aggressive treatment methods such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. When detected at an early age, less invasive methods can be used to treat, resulting in a better quality of life for the patients.

 3. Minimized Medical expenses: Treatment of advanced lung cancer is not only physically and emotionally draining but financially burdening as well. Early diagnosis paves the way for less extensive treatment and minimized medical expenses.

 4. Better Emotional Well-Being: For individuals with high risk due to smoking or other factors, regular lung cancer screening can provide better emotional well-being. Knowing that one is cancer-free or in the initial stages of cancer can alleviate anxiety and promote overall well-being.

In conclusion, lung cancer screening is a powerful tool for early detection, but it’s not for everyone. If you fall into the high-risk category, schedule regular screenings, and take proactive steps to reduce your risk. Early detection saves lives, and by being informed and proactive, you can make a significant impact on your own health and well-being. Don’t wait – take the first step toward lung cancer prevention and early detection today.

62-Year-Old Man Undergoes Successful Treatment for Stage IV Tongue Cancer at American Oncology Institute (AOI) in Gurgaon

Gurgaon, 21 November, 2023

In a rare case, a 62-year-old man was successfully treated for stage IV tongue cancer, at American Oncology Institute (AOI), Gurgaon. The patient first sought medical attention in March 2023, when he was received by Dr Sheh Rawat, a distinguished oncologist at AOI. Initially, the patient had complained of persistent throat and neck pain, which had been troubling him for the past three months, prompting a comprehensive clinical evaluation and thorough investigations.

Upon examination, the patient was diagnosed with advanced Stage IV Tongue Cancer. This diagnosis understandably raised concerns and questions for both the patient and his family, including the type of treatment, treatment duration, potential side effects, and, most importantly, the expected outcomes. Dr Sheh Rawat and the compassionate healthcare team at AOI addressed these concerns by outlining a detailed treatment plan.

Speaking on the same, Dr Sheh Rawat, Radiation Oncologist, AOI Gurgaon said, “The prevalence of Head and Neck cancers in our country emphasizes the importance of early detection and intervention. The successful treatment of Tongue Cancer through Radiotherapy underscores the significance of this therapeutic modality in combating this challenging disease. The patient’s remarkable recovery from advanced Stage IV Tongue Cancer exemplifies the potential for healing and the importance of comprehensive care in the fight against cancer.”

The chosen course of action was Radiotherapy, which has proven to be highly effective in treating Tongue Cancer. Under the expert guidance of DrSheh Rawat, Radiotherapy was initiated, and the patient displayed incredible resilience and tolerance throughout the entire treatment process. Later, the patient successfully completed his Radiotherapy treatment within a month. The latest check-up revealed that the patient is now completely cancer-free. This recovery brings relief to the entire family, who now stand as a living testimony to the power of modern oncology and the dedication of healthcare professionals.

Dr Amit Dhawan, Regional COO, AOI, Gurgaon explained, “We believe that early detection is the linchpin of success in the battle against tongue cancer. At AOI, we’ve made it our mission to be at the forefront of cutting-edge technology, enabling us to diagnose and treat complex cancer cases with precision and care. Our commitment to superior technology empowers us to provide less invasive procedures, and better outcomes for our patients. We understand that every moment counts in the fight against cancer, and our advanced resources ensure that we can act swiftly and effectively. Together, we are redefining the standards of cancer care, one early detection, one successful treatment, and one hopeful outcome at a time.”

American Oncology Institute (AOI) at Aarvy Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital in Gurugram is one of the best cancer hospitals in Haryana, offering a wide range of cancer treatment services in the region. As a proud member of the elite global network of the International Tumor Board, AOI in Gurugram collaborates closely with leading medical professionals worldwide, ensuring that our patients receive the most advanced and informed treatment options available at the best hospital in Haryana.AOI Gurugram specializes in a range of dedicated services, making it the best hospital in Haryana. Committed to excellence, AOI combines clinical expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and compassionate care to deliver the highest standard of cancer treatment in the region.

Best Ways to Manage Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety are common experiences that everyone encounters at some point in their lives. While stress is a natural response to challenging situations, anxiety is a more prolonged and intense state of worry and fear.

Managing stress and anxiety is crucial for maintaining mental and emotional well-being. Here are some effective strategies that may help:

Deep Breathing and Mindfulness:

Practice deep breathing exercises to calm the nervous system.
Engage in mindfulness meditation to stay present and reduce anxiety about the future.

Regular Exercise:

Physical activity releases endorphins, which act as natural mood lifters.
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

Adequate Sleep:

Establish a consistent sleep routine to ensure you get enough rest.
Lack of sleep can contribute to increased stress and anxiety.

Healthy Lifestyle:

Maintain a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Limit caffeine and sugar intake, as they can contribute to increased anxiety.

Social Support:

Share your feelings with friends, family, or a mental health professional.
Surround yourself with supportive and understanding people.

Time Management:

Prioritize tasks and break them into smaller, more manageable steps.
Avoid overcommitting yourself, and learn to say no when necessary.

Mind-Body Techniques:

Yoga, tai chi, and other mind-body practices can help reduce stress.
Progressive muscle relaxation can also be effective in relieving tension.

Limit Exposure to Stressors:

Identify sources of stress and try to limit your exposure when possible.
Learn to set boundaries to protect your time and well-being.

Positive Self-Talk:

Challenge negative thoughts and replace them with positive affirmations.
Practice self-compassion and avoid being too critical of yourself.

Hobbies and Relaxation Techniques:

Engage in activities you enjoy to distract yourself from stressors.
Try relaxation techniques such as reading, listening to music, or taking a bath.

Professional Help:

If stress and anxiety persist, consider seeking help from a mental health professional.
Therapy, counseling, or medication may be recommended depending on the severity.

It’s important to note that experiencing occasional stress or anxiety is normal, but if these feelings persist or interfere with daily functioning, seeking professional help is advisable. Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and there are effective treatments available for managing stress and anxiety.

Remember that everyone is different, so it may take some trial and error to find the strategies that work best for you. It’s also important to be patient with yourself and seek professional help if needed.

Unveiling the Vision Revolution: Artificial Intelligence Takes Center Stage in Combating Diabetic Retinopathy, A Global Health Imperative

. AI is revolutionizing disease detection through image-based screening for conditions like diabetic

retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and more

. 27.0% of diabetic patients suffer from diabetic retinopathy, resulting in around 0.4 million cases

of blindness worldwide

Mumbai, 18 November 2023: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) continues to be a pervasive health challenge worldwide, with countries grappling to address its staggering impact. Among the many complications arising from diabetes, Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) stands as a significant concern. This condition affects the blood vessels in the retina, often leading to vision loss and, in severe cases, blindness.

Recent statistics reveal the severity of this issue: globally, an estimated 27.0% of diabetic patients suffer from diabetic retinopathy, resulting in around 0.4 million cases of blindness worldwide. Alarmingly, diabetes is the primary cause of blindness among adults aged 20 to 74. Key risk factors contributing to DR include the duration of diabetes, uncontrolled blood sugar levels, hypertension, dyslipidemia, nephropathy, obesity, age, and gender.

“The awareness regarding diabetic retinopathy and associated visual complications varies significantly across different regions. Studies in India report a wide range of awareness levels, varying from 16.1% to 71.3%. This disparity emphasizes the critical need for standardized education and awareness programs targeting diverse communities.” Said Dr. T S Sujatha, General Ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon, at Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital.

Early detection remains pivotal in managing diabetes-related complications. Timely identification of blood sugar irregularities allows for proactive steps to prevent irreversible damage to vital organs such as the heart, kidneys, nerves, blood vessels, and eyes.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) underscores the importance of regular eye examinations for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients. For type 1 diabetes, an eye exam within five years of diagnosis is recommended, while individuals with type 2 diabetes should undergo their first eye exam at the time of diagnosis.

 She further added, “Advancements in detecting diabetic retinopathy have been promising, including automated screening, optical coherence tomography, laser treatment, and pharmaceutical interventions like vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors. Notably, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) has opened new frontiers in medicine. AI-based technologies show promise in mass screening, early diagnosis, and accurate prognosis prediction. AI, a simulation of human intelligence by machines, involves the exposure of systems to databases for learning and subsequent improvement. Neural networks and complex algorithms enable AI systems to analyze vast amounts of data, resembling the cognitive abilities of humans.”

In ophthalmology, AI is revolutionizing disease detection through image-based screening for conditions like diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and more. Technologies like

Scikit-learn in Python programming and various commercially available software are being employed for diabetic retinopathy detection.

Furthermore, adopting a proactive approach to managing diabetes and preventing diabetic retinopathy is crucial. Strict glycemic control, hypertension management, lipid level regulation, regular exercise, and lifestyle modifications are recommended preventive measures. Regular eye exams and compliance with healthcare provider recommendations remain pivotal in averting vision loss.

Combating diabetic retinopathy requires a comprehensive approach, blending advanced technologies like AI with widespread awareness and proactive healthcare strategies. Through collective efforts, early detection and intervention can significantly reduce the burden of sight-threatening retinopathy, offering hope to millions affected by this global health crisis.

Dr. Tushar Palve’s Mission Possible! Best healthcare for women

Mumbai: Covid; post-abuse trauma; breast cancer; complicated pregnancy & risky childbirth; a woman faces serious life-threatening health issues all the time. A good doctor can always help manage these peculiar health problems in women. Dr. Tushar Tatyaba Palve, superintendent of the Cama and Albless Hospital, is on a mission to provide that much-needed expert help to innumerable women patients in and around the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. He’s relentlessly pursuing his mission to ensure good health for women even before the pandemic struck us.

Dr. Tushar Palve was appointed as the Superintendent of the Cama & Albless Hospital in March 2020 during the first wave of the Corona pandemic. As a head of the hospital and nodal officer for COVID-19, Dr. Tushar Palve went beyond the call of duty to ensure the successful treatment of about 1600 Covid patients and 60 COVID-19-infected babies with a mortality rate of a mere 0.06 percent. So much was his dedication that he was personally collecting the samples on swabs for RTPCR at Cama Hospital’s Smart OPD! Some of Dr Tushar’s commendable contributions include setting up the first HDU at the hospital, a separate oxygen plant for COVID patients, a dedicated centralized oxygen supply to every bed, and a bio-medical waste converter.

Vaccination was a critical element in winning the war against Covid. Dr Tushar Palve led from the front here as well and conducted a whopping 75 vaccination camps. The Covid Vaccination Center (CVC) vaccinated close to 1.40 lakh citizens over a period of time, thus ensuring safety for all.

In the next important step, Dr. Tushar Palve targeted the rising breast cancer issue in MMR. Breast cancer can be treated successfully if detected at an early stage. Dr Tushar Palve conducted breast cancer awareness sessions and screening camps at remote areas of Thane, Palghar, Shahapur, and underprivileged areas of Mumbai. About 430 women were screened and a whopping 20% of them had breast cancer! Thankfully they could start the treatment immediately. The screening and awareness camps are also being held at various Government offices, banks, court premises, and rural areas. These are important and helpful for women who cannot access or afford mammography and other related tests.

One of the most important and modern aspects of women’s healthcare is trauma care. Recently, Dr. Tushar Palve started a One Stop Crisis (OSC) center at Cama Hospital. The OSC focuses on providing a safer and more comfortable environment for survivors of gender-based violence. It is the first such center in a women’s hospital in Mumbai. The OSC has been set up under the Central Government’s Nirbhaya Fund. The OSC will have five beds apart from access to counselors and lawyers to assist the victims of domestic abuse. Apart from this Dr Tushar Palve led the renovation and modernization of all wards at the Cama Hospital over a period. This directly benefits the patients who get access to the latest healthcare infrastructure at the Cama hospital.

Dr. Tushar Palve also has a green thumb – he has created a Miyawaki forest within the limited space of the Cama hospital with the help of Keshav Srushti, an NGO. This Miyawaki forest is now home to a whopping 125 species of flora and fauna. The total number of trees planted and happily growing in this forest is over 8500! More importantly, this forest is maintained with great love by the authorities involved.

Dr Tushar Palve has also published several research papers on COVID-19 patient management at national and international conferences. Dr Tushar Tatyaba Palve has received awards from the Government of Maharashtra as well as Kerala for his great work.

With the focus on customer health, Simpli Namdhari’s launches ‘Choose Goodness’ to create awareness about safe-to-consume fruits & veggies

Bengaluru, India, November 18, 2023: Simpli Namdhari’s, India’s only 100% vegetarian omnichannel retailer launched the ‘Choose Goodness’ campaign across social media and in-stores, to raise awareness of foods that are safe to consume and educate customers on what goes into cultivating fruits and vegetables. Simpli Namdhari launched the campaign amidst growing concerns among consumers regarding the presence of toxic heavy metals in fruits and vegetables shelved at major retail outlets in Bengaluru.

The Choose Goodness campaign aims to bust myths surrounding the cultivation methods of most produce found in local stores and supermarkets. Given India’s low consumption of healthy fruits and vegetables compared to other plant-based products, Simpli Namdhari aims to also create awareness about the role of superfoods like exotic produce in bridging the nutrition gap and improving customer health. Additionally, Simpli Namdhari will introduce customers to its seed-to-plate model, emphasizing its commitment to quality control across the supply chain.

“Most customers have no idea how the fruits and vegetables available at their neighborhood kirana or supermarket are cultivated — Whether it is safe to consume or harmful. It’s largely because retailers procure their produce through a scattered supply chain. Now more than ever, there’s a need to create more awareness among customers about where the food really comes from, the potential impact on their health and the role retailers play in educating customers about it,” said Gurmukh Roopra, CEO, of Namdhari’s Group.

With a focus on customer health and well-being, Simpli Namdhari has taken steps to ensure all fruits and vegetables including exotic produce, served at its stores, are safe to consume. The company gets its fruits and vegetables tested every quarter by an NABL-certified third-party lab, where checks are conducted under 40 different categories. Fruits and vegetables shelved at Simpli Namdhari’s have been certified with an A+ Grade and follow the BRCGS food standards and GAP Protocol for field operations to test produce.

Namdhari’s Group cultivates crops at its farm in Bidadi or contracts the cultivation to farmers who use Namdhari’s Seeds and prescribed cultivation methods to produce the best-quality fruits and vegetables. Maintaining quality is a top priority, as the produce is not only shelved at Simpli Namdhari’s stores but also exported. In 2023 alone, Namdhari exported over 1,000 MT of fresh fruits and vegetables to the UK, Europe & Australia where every single shipment passed clearance of the highest quality.

Six hours’ reconstructive surgery at Medica restores amputated finger after lift mishap

Kolkata, 17th November 2023: Medica Group of Hospitals, the leading healthcare chain in Eastern India, reaffirms its unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional medical care through the successful completion of a complex reimplantation surgery at its flagship facility in Kolkata. The intricate procedure was skillfully performed by the esteemed Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Akhilesh Kumar Agarwal, Consultant, Department of Plastic Surgery, Medica Superspecialty Hospital.

Sahil Kumar Paul, a 23-year-old male from Narendrapur, South 24 Parganas, West Bengal, experienced a traumatic incident where his little finger was accidentally amputated after getting caught in the doors of a lift. Acting swiftly, Sahil’s family contacted Medica Superspecialty Hospital, and with the guidance received, the family preserved the amputated part and arrived at the emergency department around 11 pm on Monday, 30th October 2023. Dr. Akhilesh Kumar Agarwal assessed his condition and led him through a complex surgery, around 12:30 am that same night, the surgery began, and it took more than six hours to reimplant the finger.

The finger was meticulously reimplanted, with all structures correctly reunited. K wires were used to fix the bone. A critical part of the treatment was the restoration of blood circulation through the blood vessels measuring smaller than 1 mm.

Sahil Kumar Das, employed at a BPO, shared his experience, and stated, “On the evening of 30th October, as I was returning from work, I had the accident in my apartment’s elevator around 8:45 PM. Enduring considerable pain, I was rushed to Medica with the preserved portion of my injured finger, where my surgery commenced at midnight. I was discharged on 5th November. I just finished my first weekly review with Dr. Agarwal and expect the plaster to be removed by next week. I can resume my routine activities in about eight weeks. I express my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Agarwal and the entire Medica team for their swift response and support.”

Dr. Akhilesh Kumar Agarwal expressed his satisfaction with the outcomes, stating, “The success of this surgery highlights the importance of prompt action in such cases. We are pleased with the positive progress of Sahil. I would like to share for general awareness that in such accidents, there is often doubt regarding the appropriate procedure for transporting the patient to a medical facility. The initial step involves carefully isolating the severed body part, cleansing it with water, and then placing it in a water-resistant bag stored with ice. Subsequently, addressing bleeding concerns entails the application of a pressure bandage to stop hemorrhage. Lastly, expeditious transportation of the patient to the hospital is crucial to ensure prompt medical intervention.”

Ayanabh Debgupta, Joint Managing Director, Medica Group of Hospitals, said, “That we could save the limb of a 23-year-old young professional is certainly worth applauding. Timely intervention by Dr. Agarwal & team has helped Sahil with the complex reimplantation.”

L V Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI) shines spotlight on refractive errors in children: the overlooked vision challenge

1. As part of the Children’s Eye Care Week (13-19 November), L V Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI), through its dedicated Children’s Eye Care Centres across its network, organizes various activities to raise awareness about refractive errors in children.
2. Uncorrected refractive error is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide; 20% of India’s total visually impaired population suffers from uncorrected refractive errors.
3. 1-3-5, Give Good Eye Sight: An eye examination at one, three, and five years is paramount to early diagnosis and treatment of refractive errors and other eye problems in Children.
4. LVPEI is organizing the Children’s Eye Care Walk on Sunday, 19th November 2023, at 7:00 am, starting from its Kallam Anji Reddy Campus, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad.

Hyderabad, November 2023: Refractive errors occur due to natural differences in eyeball sizes, affecting how we process the images. To understand it, we can imagine our eye as a camera and the retina as its film – refractive errors occur when the eye’s shape doesn’t let light focus correctly on this “film” at the back of the eyes. Types of refractive errors include Myopia (nearsightedness), hypermetropia (farsightedness), and astigmatism (eye focus well in one direction). Children with these conditions often struggle with basic daily tasks. They may experience frequent headaches, eyestrain, and fatigue while reading and may even develop squint as they adapt to the refractive errors.

Recent data underscores the global significance of uncorrected refractive errors, emerging as a leading cause of blindness. In India, this concern is starkly evident, with 20% of visually impaired individuals grappling with unaddressed refractive errors—an alarming statistic that demands urgent attention. Particularly, the escalating prevalence of Myopia paints a dire picture. Without proactive measures, projections indicate that nearly half of the world’s population (5 billion) will be affected by 2050. The gravity of the situation is further highlighted in urban India, where an anticipated 48% of children may battle Myopia by 2050, transcending mere vision concerns to crystallize as a looming public health crisis.

The reasons for the surge in refractive errors are complex. Genetics play a role, with a higher likelihood of Myopia if one or both parents have it. Environmental factors, such as prolonged near-work, excessive screen time, and insufficient outdoor activities, predispose one to Myopia. Exposure to dust and smoke can cause eye allergies, and constant eye rubbing can increase the risk of astigmatism. The impact of these conditions on children is profound. Children adapt to their blurred vision, adjusting to close-range activities and avoiding tasks that require sharp focus, affecting their academic performance and taking a toll on their psychological well-being.

Dr Rohan Nalawade, Pediatric Ophthalmologist at LVPEI Hyderabad, emphasizes the significance of recognizing tell-tale symptoms of refractive errors, urging immediate consultation with an eye specialist upon their observation. “These crucial indicators include reading or watching television at a close distance, experiencing difficulty in seeing the blackboard clearly at school, frequent headaches and eyestrain, and squeezing or squinting of the eyes. Ignoring these signs may compromise visual health, making early intervention imperative for optimal eye care.”

Diagnosis and Treatment of Refractive Errors:

Eye examinations at one, three, and five years are paramount to diagnosing and treating refractive errors early. Thankfully, refractive errors are treatable with simple solutions like glasses or contact lenses. But, regular follow-ups to check for changes in glass prescription, treatment of lazy eye, and treatment of progressive refractive errors are crucial to ensuring optimal vision.

The following preventive measures can help in preventing refractive errors in our children:

1) Manage Screen Time: We encourage you to balance screen use and physical activities. A safe amount of screen time varies by age. Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children below two years should not be exposed to any screen. Further, exposure should be limited to one hour of supervised screen time per day for children between two and under five years of age and less than two hours per day for children 6-10.
2) Encourage Outdoor Time: Children spending at least 60 minutes outdoors daily reduce their risk of Myopia by over 14%. Therefore, ophthalmologists promote outdoor play for overall well-being.
3) Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Break every 20 minutes of near work with a 20-second break, focusing on an object 20 feet away. It helps relieve eye strain and discomfort.
4) Optimal Reading Habits: Maintain a 15-inch distance and a 60-degree angle while reading. Ensure well-lit environments to prevent eye strain.

“Undiagnosed and untreated refractive errors can lead to delayed milestones in children and negatively impact their academic performance, participation in co-curricular activities, and social behavior. Children with Myopia are at a higher risk of developing retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts and other eye diseases. Some of these eye disorders can result in irreversible vision loss. Hence, it is the collective responsibility of families, teachers, doctors, healthcare organizations, and government to ensure children’s health and well-being,” says Dr Ramesh Kekunnaya, Head, Child Sight Institute, L V Prasad Eye Institute.

As part of Children’s Eye Care Week, LVPEI invites you to participate in the Children’s Eye Care Walk on Sunday, 19th November 2023, at 7:00 am, starting from its Kallam Anji Reddy Campus, Hyderabad. Join us in creating awareness; through timely diagnosis and treatment of refractive errors in children, we can give them a ‘Clear Vision for a Bright Future’.