Love to binge on packaged baked goods and snacks, fizzy drinks, sugary cereals, and ready-to-eat or heat foods? Beware, it can cut short your lifespan and raise the risk of early death, according to a 30-year-long study published in the journal The BMJ on Thursday. The risk is because ultra-processed foods often contain colours, emulsifiers, flavours, and other additives and are typically high in energy, added sugar, saturated fat, and salt, but lack vitamins and fibre -- leading to poor health, and raising the risk of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, which can further raise the risk of cardiovascular diseases and cancer. For the study, an international team of researchers including from the US, Brazil, and China, tracked the long-term health of 74,563 female registered nurses from 11 US states between 1984 and 2018; and 39,501 male health professionals from all 50 US states from 1986 to 2018 with no history of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, or diabetes. Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: ‘Longer the life of a food product, the sooner your expiry date: Revant Himatsingka aka Food Pharmer The results revealed that eating an average of 7 servings per day of ultra-processed foods caused a 4 per cent higher risk of total deaths and a 9 per cent higher risk of other deaths, including an 8 per cent higher risk of neurodegenerative deaths. The rate of death from any cause among participants in this group was 1,536 per 100,000 person-years. Further, eating meat, poultry, and seafood-based ready-to-eat products showed the strongest risk of early death, followed by sugar-sweetened and artificially sweetened beverages, dairy-based desserts, and ultra-processed breakfast food. Even though this is an observational study, so no firm conclusions can be drawn about cause and effect, “the findings provide support for limiting consumption of certain types of ultra-processed food for long-term health,” said the researchers. “Future studies are warranted to improve the classification of ultra-processed foods and confirm our findings in other populations,” they added. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
09 May,2024 05:50 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSThe conjoined twins Riddhi-Siddhi who were once abandoned by their parents have successfully undergone a separation surgery at Wadia Hospital, Mumbai. Not only this, the duo has now found a loving home at Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children in Mumbai. Separating conjoined twins, while often life-changing and liberating, can present a myriad of complex challenges. Physically, the separation surgery itself carries inherent risks, including potential damage to shared organs or blood vessels, leading to hemorrhage or organ dysfunction. Post-operatively, complications such as infection, wound healing issues and fluid imbalances can arise, requiring meticulous monitoring and management. Additionally, both twins may experience psychological and emotional difficulties as they adapt to individual identities and lifestyles, often requiring extensive support from medical professionals and mental health specialists. Long-term outcomes may vary, however the duo has recovered with no symptoms of discomfort, informs the hospital staff. On their 12th birthday, the twins were adorned in elegant gowns and celebrated their big day with a specially crafted colourful rainbow three-tier cake in the hospital premise. Also Read: Why this Mumbaikar turned into a human indicator at Dadar station Akin to being orphans, Riddhi-Siddhi are now under the care of Wadia Hospital, where they receive not only medical attention but also education and support. The hospital's compassionate act of taking on the responsibility for these twins has been a shining example of kindness and humanity, as they continue to nurture the girls toward achieving their developmental milestones and preparing them for a bright future ahead. The gala birthday bash was organised by Wadia Hospital, wherein pediatric patients, their family members, doctors, nurses and other staff in the hospital greeted the twins with presents and chocolates. The twins were elated and danced enthusiastically during the celebrations which included fun-filled activities, games, and musical chairs followed by a cake-cutting ceremony. Dr Minnie Bodhanwala, CEO Wadia Hospital remarks: “Riddhi-Siddhi's 12th birthday is a sign of how the two young girls are now reaching developmental goals for their age. Over the past 12 years, Wadia Hospital has played a crucial role in caring for Riddhi and Siddhi, providing them with the necessary support and resources to thrive." She continues, "As they enter this new phase of their lives, the hospital is committed to empowering them to reach their full potential, learn, grow and flourish. As the twins continue on their path toward independence and self-discovery, the hospital stands as a pillar of support, ready to empower them every step of the way. Miracle baby: Woman weighing 160-kg gives birth to a healthy baby after 14 years of marriage
09 May,2024 02:20 PM IST | Mumbai | Ainie Rizvi“Madhi, Badmash bachcha! Come and say hi,” hollers the Parel-based mother and autism activist – Mugdha Kalra at her son. After minor resistance, her son arrives and waves at this writer through the computer screen on a video call. While he avoided making eye contact, his greeting was heartfelt and topped with warmth. Madhav (14), son of Mugdha was diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum when he was 4. While Mugdha has spoken extensively about bringing up a neuro-diverse child, she is now onto raising awareness about the importance of building a community of parents who can support each other. To help autistic children, she has co-founded Not That Different – a child-led movement that focuses on inclusion and understanding neurodiversity. The project is the outcome of a collaboration between Mugdha and Nidhi Mishra, founder of Bookosmia. It comprises a comic strip, in which Bookosmia’s 12-year-old persona Sara introduces her readers to her new friend, Madhav, a child on the autism spectrum. Through Sara’s journey of meeting and accepting someone a little different, one can understand what being neuro-diverse entails. “Autism is a developmental difference that influences a person’s worldview and their social engagements. However, what one fails to realise is how society’s understanding and acceptance can positively impact the lives of autistic children and their families,” Mugdha shares with Midday. Also Read: Health cover denial sparks mother's advocacy for autistic son Systemic issues that affect the growth of autistic children“The government does not prioritise the creation of specialised policies for individuals with invisible disabilities, indicating a lack of recognition for their needs and challenges," opines Mugdha. Over a period of time, she has set 4 goals that she is primarily tackling to help the development of neurodivergent children: Curriculum crisis: In India, there is currently an absence of a tailored curriculum specifically designed for functional academics catering to children with special needs. This gap continues as there are no educational reforms to enforce the diverse learning requirements of these children. Lack of awareness on therapy: Is there a system by which the government is giving any kind of license to practice to the number of people who have now mushroomed in the name of therapy – questions Mugdha, highlighting the grave issue of self-anointed therapists that are emerging. How does one get to know which therapy center or which professional is qualified to be doing what they are doing? No health cover: Autism and Down's Syndrome fall under the category of intellectual disabilities as per the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. This Act obligates the central and state governments to design schemes ensuring inclusive insurance coverage for persons with disabilities – however, insurance companies breach these regulations by refusing coverage or denying claims of individuals living with neurodivergence. Disability certification: It requires 14 sittings spanning over 3 months to obtain the Unique Disability ID (UDID) Card. Usually, these sessions get extended leaving parent and their special-needs children harassed by the inefficient ways they are carried (elaborated later in this article). Data deficit for policy formationRegrettably, Mugdha sees little hope for progress, particularly because this disability is invisible, making it less likely to receive attention. Despite the recent efforts of the National Health Scheme to conduct a survey, it appears that individuals with invisible disabilities may not be adequately accounted for in the data collection process. “Any matters concerning invisible disabilities or disabilities in general remain overlooked. Without a specialised census focused on data collection for individuals on the spectrum or those with invisible disabilities, they'll never be important enough for the government. So why do you see today blind association or the blinds in the country have the most solid presence?” asks the autism activist Mugdha. Indeed, the visibility of blindness makes it impossible to conceal, and since individuals who are blind typically do not have cognitive impairments and are functional, they tend to receive the most support. Similarly, those who use wheelchairs often receive significant assistance. However, individuals with invisible disabilities face stigma and taboo, which complicates their access to support and understanding. The issue primarily lies in the lack of acceptance, remarks Mugdha. “Parents often hesitate to openly acknowledge that their child has an invisible disability. Consequently, accurate statistics on the prevalence of these disabilities are lacking. Without this data, the government may perceive this demographic as a small and insignificant group.” When disabilities are approached collectively, progress tends to be limited. However, when specific conditions like autism are individually addressed, significant strides can be made. It's essential to recognise the prevalence of various special needs children across the country and have accurate data to inform decisions regarding school placements and government support. Without precise numbers, appropriate interventions become challenging to implement. This highlights a significant gap in addressing discrimination, particularly between visible and invisible disabilities.Also Read: Catch autism early: Key steps for early intervention Obtaining UDID remains a complex taskDespite the government setting in place certain policies to address the needs of autistic children, it takes a lot of time and harassment to get the benefit of those policies, shares Mugdha. For example, obtaining her son's disability certification required 14 sessions spanning over three and a half months. While some may consider this relatively quick, it's worth noting that it typically involves a longer process. “Now, just imagine taking your specially-abled child to a government hospital, which may not have public bathrooms, which, in the same room is also, evaluating your son along with inmates of your local jail. You are made to wait in lines for two to three hours for 14 different sessions and you are not even based in Bombay,” Mugdha sheds light on the plight of parents and children who have to come from far off to obtain a UDID card. Also Read: How bureaucracy is failing the applicants of Unique Disability ID While the disability certificate indeed provides benefits such as access to writers or readers during examinations, additional time and permission to use a calculator, obtaining it is far from straightforward in our country. Mugdha and Madhav’s journeyWhen Madhav was diagnosed with autism, Mugdha was completely unaware of the developmental condition. It took her about three to four years to grasp the concept of autism and truly understand the needs of her differently-abled son. “Our journey began in Bangalore, which proved to be excellent in terms of therapy options. Following this, we relocated to Bombay, where his academic intervention began.” While Madhav began to make progress in academics, it was albeit slow. Regarding schools, Mugdha has exclusively turned to special needs schools to support her child, as mainstream schools, even those claiming to be inclusive or integrated, often lack the resources to adequately meet the needs of autistic children. Instead, the family embarked on a journey focused on special needs education and enrolled him in specialised schools. Now, at the age of 14, Madhav continues to attend a special needs school and is passionate about fitness and is progressing at his own pace, focusing on functional academics. Mugdha’s career as a broadcast journalist has been instrumental in her efforts to create acceptance around neurodivergent children. Apart from raising awareness, Mugdha actively engages with parents of children with intellectual disabilities, equipping them with valuable tools to support their special needs. On raising a child with a developmental difference, Mugdha opines that the initial difficulties are always there till you do not fully accept the fact that you have a differently abled child who perhaps is not neurotypical. Once that acceptance takes shape, you are ready to embrace the new life as new avenues open up. “I've been very open with my friends and my family and my neighbours and my collegiate society about the fact that my son is autistic and that he has different needs and that he is going to occupy his deserving space in the world,” says Mugdha who is indifferent to the opinions hurled at her. She concludes by saying: In India, everyone will have an opinion on your parenting style. Everyone will have an opinion on why in the first place you have a special needs child. So the only way to deal with it is to accept that your child is autistic and raise them by prioritising their needs and at all times being prepared to give back answers when tough questions are put to you and fighting for your child's rights! Also Read: Our expert answers some common questions about Autism
09 May,2024 01:51 PM IST | Mumbai | Ainie Rizvi
Geetha VM’s son Om, was 10 when he was diagnosed with pneumonia in February 2020. To avail medical treatment, the Bengaluru boy was hospitalised and his family was promised insurance coverage by Care Health (formerly Religare) Insurance company. However, later they were denied health cover on account of Om’s autistic condition, which the parents were not aware and hence did not reveal at the time of purchasing the policy. Shortly after Om was admitted, a representative from the insurance company arrived at the hospital, demanding Geetha sign a declaration that Om has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and specify the age at which he was diagnosed. In an interaction with Midday, Geetha tells us: “When we bought the insurance policy, Om had developmental delay, and autism wasn't diagnosed by the government doctors. The health experts claimed that he only had developmental delays with academic and learning difficulties. Moreover, when you buy insurance, the agents usually check for underlying conditions like thyroid, cancer, and those kinds of pre-existing illnesses.” She continues, “In our case, they never highlighted or checked with us whether Om had intellectual disabilities or any such condition within the family. So, we took it for granted and didn't read all the rules.” What followed was an email from the insurance company stating that Om's policy 'was subject to cancellation due to non-disclosure of material facts regarding pre-existing ailments.’ Upon learning this, Geetha and her husband were taken aback. They didn’t expect that the medical cover for pneumonia would be declined owing to his underlying developmental delay/autistic condition which was not revealed. After several emails pointing out that Om’s ASD had no bearing on his physical illness, the family was met with disappointment. They had to pay all the treatment bills with the help of Om's husband's company corporate insurance. While Geetha believes it’s her fault for not disclosing that Om is under ASD, the question remains – why are insurance companies denying health coverage for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities? Also Read: A guide to navigating social relationships for individuals with bipolar disorder What does the law state? Autism and Down's Syndrome fall under the category of intellectual disabilities as per the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. This Act obligates the central and state governments to design schemes ensuring inclusive insurance coverage for persons with disabilities. The Niramaya Health Insurance Scheme, under the National Trust Act, 1999, stands as the only government program offering comprehensive health cover for individuals with intellectual disabilities. This scheme grants an annual reimbursement-only insurance cover of up to Rs 1 lakh, which includes hospitalisation, outpatient department fees, ongoing therapies and transportation costs for those with valid disability certificates. However, as per Geetha, insurance companies breach these regulations by refusing coverage or denying claims of individuals living with these conditions. “I did my research and spoke to senior parents of autistic children. They told me that companies don’t provide cover when you mention autism. You have to be secretive and discreet to avail health insurance for children diagnosed with autism,” shares Geetha. Her anger is in place. When the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has clearly stated that intellectual disabilities, including autism, down’s syndrome and other intellectual disabilities or neurodivergence should be mandatorily covered, why are insurance companies denying the claim? “There may not be enough data or clinical experience of long-term risks to design the product appropriately,” wrote a senior manager of Care Health Insurance to Geetha. The manager insisted that despite IRDAI mandating health cover, we don’t have to give you a policy necessarily. He added, “If we provide a policy but then prevent you from making claims, you could file a lawsuit against us. However, we haven't issued a policy to you, and we're unable to do so.” Though Geetha had, later, provided them with his disability certificate which indicated he has a mild to moderate Autism Spectrum Disorder. Geetha tried her level best to convince the manager. She also suggested that a panel of doctors can speak to the underwriting team stating that autism is not an illness or a disease, but it's more like a a lifelong neurological condition and doesn’t impact the physical condition of a person. To her apathy, the insurance company denied all her requests. Also Read: Bipolar disorder advocates demand action for improved mental health care If Covid-19 can be covered, why not autism? Currently, Geetha is on a mission to expose the inefficiencies of the system. “I've been reaching out to numerous insurance companies, and I've even asked many parents to do the same for research purposes, almost like cold calling. Initially, these companies promise attractive premiums, covering amounts like 1 crore or 50 lakh for the entire family. They send us detailed emails with all the information. However, as soon as we disclose that only our son has Autism Spectrum Disorder, things take a different turn.” “The representatives handling our inquiries often lack sufficient knowledge. They quickly classify it as an "Intellectual Disability" and state that it cannot be covered. When we press them for more information, they struggle to provide satisfactory answers due to their limited understanding. Even when we escalate the issue to their managers, we're met with a similar response. They claim that their underwriters are still researching and trying to figure things out.” When the unheard viral illness, Covid-19 made an outbreak, insurance companies saw it as a lucrative opportunity to devise timely products. Despite the ambiguity and rapidly evolving situation, insurance agents promptly decided to include Covid-19 coverage overnight without knowing if Covid-related expenses would amount to 1 lakh, 2 lakh, or even 6 lakh. Geetha’s frustration stems from this swift action to cover Covid-19, an unfamiliar and terrifying phenomenon. While today Covid-19 is well understood and accepted as a part of our lives, back then, it was an unprecedented threat affecting the entire globe. Nevertheless, insurance companies readily embraced the need to cover it, recognising its importance for the well-being of the entire population. No space for disability Here is a minority group, persistently seeking answers for years, yet receiving no response. Is it because of prejudice towards individuals with disabilities or an indifferent mindset? Disabled children don't have the power to vote—does their absence from the voting demographic render their needs insignificant? However, Geetha hesitates to solely blame politicians, as the government, through the IRDAI, has unequivocally directed insurance companies to provide coverage. Although there are a few insurance companies, like Star Health Insurance, that offer coverage, the amount they provide is paltry—just Rs 3 lakh. This amount proves insufficient, especially when considering medical expenses for conditions like pneumonia, which necessitates hospitalisation for a mere 48 hours. Even for such a short duration, the medical bill can range from Rs 40,000 to Rs 60,000, considering inflated medical costs and other expenses. This inadequacy is glaringly evident and leaves much to be desired in terms of support for individuals with disabilities. Also Read: Lok Sabha elections 2024: Even in MVA, ticket for a Muslim a distant dream Furthermore, their coverage only extends up to 25 years of age. When Geetha inquired with her health insurance provider about extending coverage for her son, she learnt that they will not cover up beyond the age of 25. However, Care Health Insurance reached out to her with an alternative policy. “At that time, my son was only 12 years old, and I expressed concerns about what would happen if he encountered health issues before reaching 18, even common ailments. To this, they reiterated that coverage would only commence after he turns 18, and even then, it would be limited to Rs 5 lakh. Additionally, they required me to pay a significantly higher premium, almost double the standard rate, for this extended coverage,” Geetha tells Midday. Similarly, there are a few insurance companies—just a handful—that offer very low coverage. Some individuals are forced to pay high premiums for this limited coverage, which is completely unjust. Geetha opines that it's simply not right to exclude a significant portion of the population like this. Take the case of pneumonia, for instance. Anyone can fall ill with pneumonia; it's not something that discriminates based on age or any other factor. What frustrates Geetha even more is that there are insurance covers for things like pet animals, houses and cars, but why not for human beings? Why are insurance companies denying coverage to a significant portion of the population? This discrepancy is concerning and highlights the need for greater inclusivity in insurance coverage. What’s next for Om? People with Autism Spectrum Disorder are normal individuals and citizens of India, deserving of equal rights and access to essential services like health insurance. As a parent and advocate, Geetha is raising her voice to demand inclusivity and justice for our children. Geetha’s resilience knows no bounds. She has taken to social media to raise awareness on the institutional inefficiencies when it comes to health cover for children with special needs. “It has to go to the insurance companies, the IRDA, to the right people for it to click. And it's just been 2-3 days since I started this whole thing, maximum 48 hours.” For Geetha, the goal isn't about going viral and amassing 1000+ views. Even if it's just three views, the content must reach the right target audience, namely the decision-makers within insurance companies. It sheds light on the burning negligence when it comes to covering children with developmental conditions and serves as a stark reminder for the IRDAI to question insurance companies about their failure to adhere to the regulations. To conclude, Geetha adds, “I am appealing to insurance companies and the public alike: my son, along with countless others on the autism spectrum, deserves proper health insurance coverage. We are willing to pay premiums for fair coverage that reflects their needs and ensures their well-being.”
09 May,2024 01:50 PM IST | Mumbai | Ainie RizviAs British-Swedish pharma giant AstraZeneca recalled its Covid-19 vaccine globally, Pune-based Serum Institute of India (SII) on Wednesday said it stopped the manufacturing and supply of additional doses of Covishield in December 2021. AstraZeneca has voluntarily withdrawn the "marketing authorisation" of its Covid vaccine, sold as Covishield in India and Vaxzevria in Europe. In a statement to IANS, an SII spokesperson said that with India achieving high vaccination rates in 2021 and 2022, coupled with the emergence of new mutant variant strains, the demand for previous vaccines diminished significantly. "Consequently, since December 2021, we have stopped the manufacturing and supply of additional doses of Covishield," the spokesperson added. The Serum Institute said that they fully understand the ongoing concerns and "it's crucial to emphasise our commitment to transparency and safety". The company said that from the outset, "we have disclosed all rare to very rare side effects, including Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome, in the packaging insert in 2021". Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Syndrome (TTS) is a rare side effect that can cause people to have blood clots and a low blood platelet count, linked to at least 81 deaths in the UK as well as hundreds of serious injuries. The SII stressed that despite the challenges faced during the global pandemic, the safety of the vaccine remains paramount. "Regardless of whether it's AstraZeneca's Vaxzervria or our own Covishield, both vaccines have been instrumental in saving millions of lives worldwide. "We commend the collaborative efforts of governments and ministries in facilitating a unified global response to the pandemic," added the Serum Institute. Meanwhile, the British-Swedish multinational pharmaceutical is also being sued by more than 50 alleged victims and grieving relatives in a High Court case in the UK. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
08 May,2024 06:27 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSLack of widespread awareness, genetic counselling, and traditional belief systems are some of the major reasons why India has the highest number of thalassemia major patients in the world, said experts here on World Thalassemia Day on Wednesday. World Thalassemia Day is observed every year on May 8 to raise awareness about the disease. The theme this year is 'Empowering Lives, Embracing Progress: Equitable and Accessible Thalassaemia Treatment for All'. Every eighth thalassemia patient in the world lives in India. And yearly about 10,000-20,000 new thalassemia majors are born. "India has the largest number of children with thalassemia major in the world, with around 1-1.5 lakhs of children affected. India's status as the thalassemia capital stems from a complex interplay of factors. Genetic predisposition, consanguineous marriages, and lack of awareness contribute to its prevalence. The rise in India can be attributed to population growth, limited access to screening, and lack of awareness," Sunil Bhat, Director and Clinical Lead - Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and BMT, Narayana Health Network Hospitals, told us. Thalassemia Major is a severe inherited blood disorder, passed from parents to children. The disorder occurs when the body doesn't make enough of a protein called haemoglobin -- an important part of red blood cells -- forcing the need for blood transfusions every fortnight. Also Read: Elderly woman weighing 102 kg undergoes bilateral knee replacement in Noida It is particularly prevalent in populations with a high incidence of cousin marriages and within certain ethnic and geographical groups. "In India, certain communities such as Sindhis, Punjabis, Bhanushali, Kutchi, Marwari, Maratha, Muslim, and Bengalis have a higher prevalence of the gene, which increases the incidence of Thalassemia. The incidence of Thalassemia Minor in this community varies from 8-14 per cent," Vijay Ramanan, Sr. Consultant Clinical Haematologist, Bone Marrow & Stem Cell Transplant, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, told IANS. The large population and high birth rate in India also contribute to a greater number of individuals being affected by genetic disorders. "Lack of widespread awareness and education about Thalassemia and genetic counselling among the general public leads to insufficient preventive measures. Prenatal and pre-marital screening for Thalassemia is not uniformly practised across the country," Vijay said. "Ignorance and desire to believe that astrology is more important than science has contributed to an increase in thalassemia minors marrying another thalassemia minor. Such marriages have a 25 per cent chance of getting a thalassemia major child," he added. The doctor lamented that while prenatal diagnosis exists in the country to prevent the birth of such children, "it is not availed by such couples due to religious beliefs or ignorance". Moreover, the availability and accessibility of medical services, including blood transfusions and chelation therapy, can be uneven across urban and rural regions in the country. Importantly, the doctor also pointed out a lack of data. "The rough estimate is that about 4 lakh to 6 lakh children with thalassemia major exist in India. However, the diseases needing transfusions are not usually collected in the data. Distribution of thalassemia major patients across states has not been done due to lack of registry," Vijay said. Comprehensive education on genetic risks, premarital counselling, and widespread screening is essential to address the burden of thalassemia in India, noted the experts. "In addition, promoting voluntary genetic testing national policy from the Government and fostering partnerships between doctors and communities can enhance prevention efforts. Ultimately, proactive measures, such as early diagnosis and timely management, hold the key to alleviating the impact of thalassemia in India," Sunil said. Also Read: Chandigarh doctors help Thalassemia couple deliver baby without the genetic disorder using breakthrough procedure This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
08 May,2024 12:47 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSA 63-year-old woman suffering from severe knee pain and limited mobility due to osteoarthritis has regained hope after a successful bilateral total knee replacement surgery here. The woman Sunita Thakur, weighing approximately 102 kg, was unable to walk due to severe pain in both knees caused by osteoarthritis and bow legs. She had bilateral (meaning in both knees) osteoarthritis, a condition where the cartilage cushioning the knee joint degenerates. "This, combined with a genu varum deformity (bowed legs), caused her significant pain and restricted her movement. In this condition, the knees knock inward when standing with the feet together,” said Dr. Bharat Goswami, Consultant Orthopaedics at Fortis Hospital Greater Noida. The weight of 102 kg posed a significant challenge during the surgery. "Typically, performing knee replacement surgery is challenging due to the poor quality of bone, excess flesh, and weakened bones. This complexity increases the risk of complications such as blood vessel thrombosis (BVT) and fat embolism. Additionally, such patients require specialised care," explained Dr. Goswami Although she experienced some postoperative respiratory difficulties, necessitating a brief hospital stay for observation, she recuperated well. Upon improvement in her condition, she was discharged from the hospital, the doctor said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
07 May,2024 10:25 PM IST | Noida | IANSMumbaikars deal with pollution on a daily basis. While the levels may vary, it is often difficult for people with breathing issues of various kinds. At such times, it is important to be aware and take precautions to be able to breathe properly and not face any challenges, especially while you are travelling. Every year, World Asthma Day is observed on the first Tuesday of May by people around the world, after it was first organised by Global Initiative for Asthma, which is a World Health Organization collaborative initiative formed in 1993. This year, it falls on May 7, and the theme is ‘Asthma Education Empowers’. It aims to raise awareness about asthma and empower people with the condition with appropriate education to manage it, and known when to seek medical help. About 34 million people suffer from asthma in India with many of them still being undiagnosed. With World Asthma Day here and Mumbai’s air quality currently in the moderate category with the AQI at 84, mid-day.com spoke to Dr Sulaiman Ladhani, pulmonologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central. Even though people suffering from asthma are aware of their condition, Dr Ladhani shares five tips to beat Mumbai’s air pollution. Wear a maskLadhani says if you are suffering from asthma, it is very important to wear a mask, especially while traveling and in crowded places, to reduce exposure to pollutants.Stay hydrated It is also important to stay well hydrated to keep airways moist. Dehydration may trigger an attack. Try to eat nutritious foods to maintain immunity and overall health.Periodic health checkupsIt is also important to get periodic check-ups from your doctors, take inhalers regularly, and keep a rescue inhaler in your pocket during emergencies.Avoid triggers Avoid triggers that can cause an attack such as smoke, acid reflux, sudden changes in temperature, and stress. Avoid exercising outside when pollution levels are high.Get vaccinatedPeople with chronic asthma and comorbidities should get flu vaccinations to decrease the risk of viral infections and flu-related severe attacks.
07 May,2024 05:18 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento Pinto
According to the 2022 Global Burden of Disease study, India has 34.3 million asthma patients, which is 13.09 per cent of the global burden. The study also estimates that 70 per cent of asthma patients in India are undiagnosed (also not reported) and India accounts for over 42 per cent of all global asthma deaths. World Asthma Day, observed annually, aims to spread awareness about this respiratory condition. “Asthma is a chronic lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways. This makes it difficult to breathe, and can cause symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Asthma attacks can be mild or severe, and can happen at any time. Pulmonary function tests with post-bronchodilator reversibility can help diagnose asthma in patients,” explains Dr Anusha C M, consultant – respiratory medicine at Manipal Hospital, Malleshwaram. While asthma can be managed, a significant threat comes from air pollution. She adds, “The number of reported asthma cases has doubled in the past decade. The main culprits are environmental factors like outdoor air pollutants. All these years, most of the asthma exacerbation used to be from June to December. But lately, our OPD is filled with asthma patients, even during the summer months. The worsening AQI (air quality index) makes it even more difficult to manage these exacerbations.” Also Read: Can this respiratory disease be cured with the latest medical advancements? Who is at risk “Asthma can affect all age groups, right from infancy to old age. It has a genetic predisposition, meaning you are more likely to develop asthma if any of your parents or relatives have asthma. Primary triggers include pollens, house dust mites, pets, moulds over the walls, and indoor and outdoor air pollutants,” says the respiratory medicine expert. Does air pollution increase risk of developing asthma? Research even suggests that exposure to air pollution in early life can heighten the risk of developing asthma altogether. “Yes, exposure to air pollution, particularly in children, has been associated with a higher likelihood of developing asthma. Additionally, if you already have asthma, exposure to air pollution can exacerbate your symptoms. Particulate matter (PM), which includes small airborne particles found in haze, smoke, and dust, contributes significantly to poor air quality and poses health risks, particularly in relation to asthma. Air pollutants such as PM, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulphur dioxide (SO2), ozone (O3), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can irritate the airways and trigger inflammation, which may contribute to the development of asthma or exacerbate existing asthma symptoms,” says Dr. Vasunethra Kasargod, consultant – pulmonologist at Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru. The impact of indoor air pollution “Indoor air pollution significantly impacts asthma patients by exacerbating symptoms and triggering respiratory issues. Tobacco smoke, home cleansers, pet dander, mould, incense smoke, mosquito repellents, biomass fuel smoke and insufficient ventilation are some of the factors that contribute to indoor air pollution,” explains Kasargod. Prevention is the best cure The two medical experts tell us that preventive care remains paramount in managing asthma, given its multifaceted triggers and widespread prevalence. Below, they outline measures that can be adapted by asthma patients to minimise exposure to air pollution. Eradicating house dust mitesHouse dust mites (HDM) stand out as a ubiquitous allergen, pervasive in household items like bedsheets, curtains, soft toys, and carpets. Regularly soaking bedsheets in hot water before washing can effectively eradicate dust mites while removing carpets and routinely cleaning soft toys can further minimise exposure. One can also try using hypoallergenic mattress covers, pillows, and bedding that can significantly reduce your exposure to dust mites and allergens they produce, promoting better sleep and potentially fewer asthma flare-ups. Keep pollen at bayThe second most common allergen is pollen, which gets flown away by the wind from trees and plants. One easy way to prevent this is to have a shower after you reach home and have a change of clothes – this helps to get rid of them. Groom your petsWhile pets bring joy, their dander (tiny flakes of skin) can trigger allergies. Brushing your pet regularly removes loose dander before it sheds and floats around your home. Aim for daily brushing for high-shedding breeds. Also remember to wash your pet's bedding weekly in hot water to eliminate accumulated dander. HEPA-filtered air purifiersThese purifiers trap tiny particles that can trigger asthma, like dust mites, pollen, and pet dander. By filtering the indoor air, you can significantly reduce your exposure to these irritants and potentially lessen asthma symptoms. Also Read: A comprehensive guide to managing monsoon asthma triggers Abstaining from indoor smokingSmoke from cigarettes, cigars, and even some forms of incense can severely irritate airways and worsen asthma. Creating a smoke-free environment at home protects your lungs and those of others around you. Preserving adequate ventilationFresh air is essential. Open windows regularly, especially when cooking, cleaning, or using potentially irritating products. Proper ventilation helps remove pollutants and bring in clean air, reducing asthma triggers indoors. Monitoring humidity levelsMould thrives in damp environments. Keeping indoor humidity levels between 30 per cent and 50 per cent discourages mould growth. Invest in a hygrometer to measure humidity and use dehumidifiers if necessary. Keeping an eye on air quality indicesMany areas have air quality monitoring programs. Stay informed about air quality in your area and limit outdoor activities when pollution levels are high. Consult a doctor for your Asthma treatment plan Consulting a doctor is crucial for proper asthma diagnosis and management. They can develop a personalised asthma action plan specific to your needs and triggers. It is also imperative to know the proper inhaler technique so your asthma can be well controlled according to Dr Anusha. Taking your medication as directed by your doctor is essential for controlling asthma symptoms and preventing flare-ups. She proposes the usage of inhalers, “An asthma treatment plan is usually initiated in the form of inhalers. As opposed to the myth, these are completely safe, not addictive, and need not be used lifelong. Since the inhalers directly reach the lungs, they are more effective than oral medications and also have fewer side effects. These inhalers help control the blood allergy levels and control the symptoms of asthma.”
07 May,2024 09:31 AM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalIn 2019, Pooja and Ankit (name changed) a thalassemia minor couple, planned a second baby to help their first-born child with the genetic disorder, who required blood transfusion on a fortnightly basis. With a second baby, the couple, aged 33 and 35, from Uttar Pradesh’s Saharanpur, hoped to provide a matching donor for their firstborn, 3 years old, and cure the disorder via stem-cell transplant. However, to ensure a healthy second baby, they opted for in vitro fertilisation (IVF). The woman underwent three IVF cycles, each requiring intensive hormonal stimulation. Each cycle entailed daily injections for a minimum of 10-12 days, followed by egg retrieval under anaesthesia. The process had to be repeated thrice to amass a sufficient pool of 16-18 embryos, ensuring the possibility of identifying at least one embryo free from thalassemia. Doctors at Jindal IVF, Chandigarh, combined in vitro fertilisation (IVF) technique with Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) -- a breakthrough procedure, reportedly used for the second time in India -- resulting in a healthy newborn on April 4, and hope for thalassemia major patients. “IVF PGT is absolutely beneficial for thalassemia and all single gene disorders where the mutation involved is known and probably the only method available which can prevent passing on the affecting mutation to future family generations. It gives us a chance to select a non-affected embryo thus preventing transmission,” Dr Sheetal Jindal, Senior consultant and medical director, at Jindal IVF, Chandigarh, said, ahead of thalassemia day on May 8. What is thalassemia?Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder characterised by abnormal haemoglobin production, leading to anaemia and potentially severe health complications. It is caused by genetic mutations that affect the production of haemoglobin, a crucial component of red blood cells. Patients require lifelong blood transfusions with at least one unit of blood within a maximum of 20 days. How can IVF help?Dr Manju Nair, clinical director- Fertility, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Bengaluru, Old Airport Road, told IANS that IVF with genetic testing can help reduce the risk of thalassemia by selecting embryos free of genetic mutations. “This involves testing to identify carriers of thalassemia gene mutations. If both partners are carriers (that is, they carry one abnormal copy of the gene but do not have thalassemia themselves), there is a risk of having a child with thalassemia if both pass on their abnormal genes,” she explained. Couples with a family history of thalassemia or belonging to ethnic groups with a higher prevalence of thalassemia should consider genetic counselling, before conception or during early pregnancy. In general cases, screening tests in the first trimester (first 12 weeks) can indicate the presence of such genetic disorders. “IVF, combined with Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) or preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), can potentially help prevent the risk of thalassemia in certain situations,” Dr Manju said According to Dr Sheetal the success rate in such patients “is 50-60 per cent and even higher because most of these females are otherwise fertile”. However, “In IVF, patients have to take multiple injections daily. Also even after so much effort, we might not get a fully matched embryo, and sometimes more IVF cycles might have to be done. It is also very expensive as the cost of 1 cycle might be 7-8 lakhs,” she added. “IVF with PGT is a wonderful treatment for couples with known genetic disorders. When I see the suffering parents face with an affected child, I genuinely want to help them. Their whole lifetime, money, and energy revolve around their affected child. In such cases the pain is so much that if someone can afford to some extent it can be a big saviour for the family and can bring happiness and real joy of parenthood,” the doctor said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
06 May,2024 04:44 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSPatients C.V. Shastry (80) and C. Bhagyalakshmi (75) had been experiencing knee pain and difficulty in walking for the last 15 years. They consulted various doctors and tried conservative measures of treatment including several injections in the knees. However, all of them failed to give a solution for any significant period. Their son C. M. Vijayakumar, a banking professional based in Navi Mumbai approached Medicover Hospitals via social media to give a fresh lease of life to his parents. The total knee replacement surgery took place sequentially in the same stretch of admission, providing relief from discomfort, walking difficulties and pain. Following the procedure, the couple regained full mobility and can now carry out their daily activities without any restrictions. Dr Deepak Gautam, consultant joint replacement and director of orthopedic disciplines, Medicover Hospitals, Navi Mumbai and his team successfully conducted the surgery on the couple suffering from severe osteoarthritis in their knees. Gautam remarked, “The couple came to the hospital along with their son by taking his support while walking. Their x-ray revealed degenerative changes in their knees. Their clinical conditions and X-rays indicated that they were the ideal candidates to benefit from knee replacement surgery. Age is an independent risk factor for such surgeries, but there were no other options left to bring back on their feet. Luckily despite being an octogenarian (husband) and septuagenarian (wife), they had little comorbidities with controlled blood pressure and sugar level which gave an anaesthetist more confidence in taking up the care.” Also Read: Pune doctors remove turmeric pieces that formed layers in elderly man’s lungs He added, “Both the couple underwent successful total knee replacement sequentially in the same stretch of admission and got discharged the same day hand in hand. The couple could walk pain-free, the next day after surgery. We are blessed to give the couple a pain-free life ahead." Dr Jayashree Venkatesan, consultant anaesthesiologist emphasised that "Anesthesia is a risky job, putting the patient to sleep, giving temporary paralysis to legs, numbing part of the body is fine to proceed with surgery. However, the entire responsibility of getting back all that working in the original manner is the real challenge for the anesthetist. And there lies the importance of an anesthetist." He adds, "The geriatric age group poses immense risk as patients have all the comorbidities: reduced function of almost every organ, post operative pain, healing and rehabilitation are major concerns. Regional anesthesia like epidural, spinal anesthesia, and nerve blocks help to maintain homeostasis during surgery and reduce postoperative pain, help in physiotherapy and early rehabilitation and discharge. These patients tolerated the anesthesia well and recovered well." The couple’s son Mr C.M. Vijayakumar highlighted, “After years of watching my parents struggle with mobility issues and the frustration that came with their inability to walk independently, I made it my mission to find a potent solution. The team of dcotors not only listened to our concerns but also provided personalised care and treatment plans tailored to my parent's needs." Also Read: How this new heart procedure saved the life of a 72-year-old woman in Mumbai
06 May,2024 04:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
