In a medical achievement, a 42-year-old homemaker from Mumbai, underwent a successful weight loss surgery at a city hospital, subsequently leading to the resolution of other health issues including asthma, obstructive sleep apnea and diabetes. Nafisa Khan (name changed) lost over 40 kg in six months, bringing her weight down from 130 kg to 90 kg. She had struggled with her weight for years, especially after her pregnancies. Despite numerous attempts at various diets, she consistently regained any weight she lost. The patient developed high blood pressure in her twenties, and five years ago, she was diagnosed with diabetes. By the age of 38, her worsening health had led to heart disease. By the time she crossed 125 kg weight, lying down flat became impossible; she had to sit up all night to catch her breath and even walking short distances left her breathless. Simple activities like breathing, walking and staying awake turned into daunting challenges, which prompted her to seek urgent medical intervention. Dr. Aparna Govil Bhasker, a bariatric and laparoscopic surgeon at Saifee, Namaha, and Apollo hospitals, who performed the surgery, stated, “When Nafisa came to us, she weighed 130 kg with a BMI of 63.8 kg/m². She was suffering from severe obstructive sleep apnea along with various other health issues. During our consultation, she actually dozed off, which alerted us to the dangerously high levels of carbon dioxide in her blood. (In individuals with obesity, excess weight can lead to the accumulation of fatty tissue around the neck and throat, which increases the likelihood of airway obstruction during sleep. This obstruction causes repeated pauses in breathing, leading to fragmented sleep and reduced oxygen levels in the blood.)” She further informed, “She could barely walk, as even taking two or three steps left her extremely breathless. In addition to obesity and obstructive sleep apnea, she was also dealing with diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. Four years prior, she had experienced kidney-related complications as well. Obesity had wreaked havoc on her body and severely impacted her health. Left untreated, her condition could have been life-threatening and what struck me the most was that she was just 42 years old; she had a long life ahead of her.” The surgery was performed after all necessary investigations, and she was medically optimised with the support of various specialists, including an endocrinologist and a cardiologist. Nutritionist Shamika Girkar implemented a low-calorie, high-protein diet for approximately three weeks, which helped Nafisa lose 6 to 8 kg before surgery and improved her metabolic parameters. Nafisa then underwent gastric bypass surgery, which is a minimally invasive procedure conducted through small incisions in the abdomen. Performed under general anaesthesia, the surgery typically lasts between 60 to 120 minutes. Patients are encouraged to start walking within 4 to 6 hours post-surgery and can be discharged from the hospital within 36 to 48 hours. “My life became limited to my home as my weight increased. I struggled to stand or walk without assistance, and for four years, I suffered from sleep apnea and asthma, which left me wheezing and coughing. This had a profound impact on my overall quality of life. Finding clothes that fit was a constant challenge, and I often spent my days lying in bed. As a result, I felt frustrated, anxious, stressed, isolated, ashamed, guilty and embarrassed. There were times when catching my breath felt impossible. Thankfully, I sought help. Now, at 90 kg, I'm feeling much better and am dedicated to continuing my weight loss journey with a proper diet and exercise plan as advised by Dr. Bhasker,” said Nafisa. Bariatric surgery typically results in a total body weight loss of about 30 to 40 per cent and is recognised as one of the most effective methods for weight loss in patients with clinically severe obesity. Dr. Bhasker noted, “Obesity and bariatric surgery are often surrounded by stigma, with many perceiving it as a shortcut. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth. In cases like this, bariatric surgery can truly be life-saving. It’s important to recognise that the journey toward better health starts with bariatric surgery; it is merely the first step. Patients need to have regular follow-ups, maintain consistent nutrient supplementation, and adhere to a healthy diet and lifestyle.” Also Read: Mumbai: 58-year-old Army man with ankle pain successfully undergoes ankle arthroscopy for damaged cartilage
17 October,2024 10:14 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentCelebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar on Thursday revealed key areas that she expects to be addressed in the upcoming Maharashtra assembly election 2024. These include common health and food-related issues. Taking to her X account, she wrote, “As a voter, I would like polls to be about: clean air (not smog guns), mass transportation (not cars), footpaths for walking, breakfast in anganwadi (along with midday meal), subsidies for native crops, better work conditions for sanitation workers.” As a voter i would like polls to be about - clean air (not smog guns)- mass transportation (not cars)- footpaths for walking - breakfast in anganwadi (along with midday meal)- subsidies for native crops - better work conditions for sanitation workers#Maharashtra #Mumbai — Rujuta Diwekar (@RujutaDiwekar) October 17, 2024 This demand for clean air comes at a time when Mumbai’s air quality is undergoing a dip. The AQI is further expected to go down during Diwali. Earlier this month, Diwekar had taken to X to highlight the harms of poor air quality. “Eat as clean as you want, exercise as hard as you can, maintain a good sleep hygiene but bear in mind that poor air quality will kill us all,” she wrote. Eat as clean as you want, exercise as hard as you can, maintain a good sleep hygiene but bear in mind that poor air quality will kill us all. #mumbai #AirQuality pic.twitter.com/40V4bTN5t7 — Rujuta Diwekar (@RujutaDiwekar) October 2, 2024 The Mumbai-based nutritionist is often vocal on her social media, sharing her opinions on important issues and matters of day-to-day life. About Rujuta Diwekar Rujuta Diwekar is a Mumbai-based nutritionist, fitness and wellness expert, and author. She has worked with celebrities like Kareena Kapoor, Karisma Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan, Anupam Kher and Richa Chadda. She has authored several books on eating right and busting food myths. Also Read: Celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar reveals dietary tips for 360-degree fitness goals About Maharashtra Assembly Election 2024 The Maharashtra Assembly election 2024 will be held in a single phase and voting will take place on November 20, while the counting will be held three days later and the results will be announced on November 23. The term of Maharashtra Assembly's will end on November 26. The key contenders in the Maharashtra Assembly elections 2024 are the ruling Mahayuti Alliance comprising the BJP, CM Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition which includes the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) and The Congress.
17 October,2024 09:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSpending more time standing rather than sitting does not improve cardiovascular health and is linked to a higher risk of circulatory issues, Australian researchers have found. In a study published on Thursday, researchers from the University of Sydney analysed data from research-grade wrist devices that were worn by 83,013 adults in Britain and found that there were no health benefits to standing more compared to sitting. They found that, over the long term, standing more did not reduce a person's chances of suffering a cardiovascular health incidence -- such as heart failure, coronary heart disease and stroke -- and could increase the risk of circulatory issues related to standing such as varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis. However, the research found that sitting for over 10 hours a day increased the risk of cardiovascular disease and circulatory disease incidence, Xinhua news agency reported. "The key takeaway is that standing for too long will not offset an otherwise sedentary lifestyle and could be risky for some people in terms of circulatory health. We found that standing more does not improve cardiovascular health over the long term and increases the risk of circulatory issues," said Matthew Ahmadi, lead author of the study from the Faculty of Medicine and Health at the University of Sydney. The researchers recommended that people who were regularly seated or standing for long periods schedule regular movement throughout the day. Previous research published by Ahmadi and his co-author, Emmanuel Stamatakis, in July, found that six minutes of vigorous exercise or 30 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise per day could help lower the risk of heart disease even in people who were highly sedentary for over 11 hours per day. 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.
17 October,2024 06:45 PM IST | Sydney | IANSIn a medical relief, a Mumbai army man has successfully undergone ankle arthroscopy for a damaged cartilage at a city hospital. A team led by Dr. Saikat Jena conducted a two-hour-long ankle arthroscopy on a 58-year-old retired army man from Mumbai to address his pain while avoiding ankle replacement surgery. Kallappa Dhule, a resident of Mumbai had pain in his ankle while walking for a year. He consulted many other doctors who tried conservative treatments with medications and exercises but there was no relief. The pain deteriorated further and he was unable to walk. Finally, he approached Wockhardt Hospitals in Mira Road for a second opinion. Dr Saikat Jena, consultant, orthopaedic surgeon, Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road said, “On arrival three months ago, the patient was in severe pain and was unable to walk. After a detailed clinical examination, the patient was sent for X-rays which showed some abnormalities in the ankle joint. MRI scan of the ankle joint was done next, which showed loss of cartilage over the Talus bone which forms the ankle joint and it was causing the pain. These are known as Osteochondral defects which can lead to joint damage and pain. The cartilage of the joint gets damaged spontaneously in a lot of patients in the knee due to no specific reason. He adds, "However, it is believed to get damaged due to the hampered blood supply and steroid use which makes it difficult to pinpoint one causative agent. This damage can also be seen in other joints such as the Talus bone, which is the ankle joint. The symptom that one will experience is pain while walking. Normally, cartilage is smooth, but under pressure, it can cause immense ankle pain. In this patient, damage to the bone beneath the cartilage led to joint surface damage when Arthritis occurred. That is why there is bone-to-bone grating due to friction. The lesion was largely affecting the entire medial half of the Talus. If action is not taken at the right time, the joint will be completely damaged and the patient will require an ankle replacement (which in itself is a complex and fairly uncommon surgery). Ankle replacement is not a common procedure in the country, as of now. Knee and shoulder Arthroscopy is done in many patients. Ankle Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery to treat a damaged ankle and is not performed that widely in India as compared to knee and shoulder Arthroscopy. “ Dr Jena added, “Although Knee and Shoulder Arthroscopy are common surgeries today, Ankle Arthroscopy is uncommonly performed, despite being used to treat conditions like ligament injuries, bone impingement, and cartilage damage. The frequency of the surgery has increased over recent years due to its minimally invasive nature, shorter recovery times, and advancements in arthroscopic technology. An Arthroscopy (keyhole surgery) allows the surgeon to view inside your ankle using a camera inserted through small cuts on your skin. After detecting the cartilage damage, the unstable part was identified, the lesion was opened and we took grafts from the patient’s own body which is an Osteochondral graft (a tissue that replaces damaged cartilage and underlying bone in a joint) from the knee. Now, the cartilage is been taken from the patient’s knee. Later, the damaged bone was removed with special instruments, and then the harvested ones from the knee. The uneventful procedure lasted for two hours. The patient was discharged on the second post-operation day. Kallappa was advised non-weight-bearing ambulation with walker support for a month. Exercises and rehabilitation were also done. This is how his joint was preserved, avoiding the need for replacement. Now the patient is pain-free and walking without any support. “I found it difficult to take even a few steps because of severe pain in my ankle. Completing my everyday tasks became quite a struggle. I had to rely on my family for assistance, which I wasn't comfortable with. As an army officer, we are trained to be independent and resilient in the face of challenges. Thanks to the prompt care provided by Dr. Saikat Jena and his team, I am now able to walk without restriction,” concluded Mr Kallappa Dhule patient.
17 October,2024 04:25 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a first, scientists at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) have developed a unique way through the nose to deliver tuberculosis (TB) medicines directly to the brain. TB that affects the brain is called Central Nervous System Tuberculosis (CNS-TB) and is one of the most dangerous forms of TB, often leading to severe complications or death. The novel nose-to-brain (N2B) drug delivery utilises the olfactory and trigeminal nerve pathways in the nasal cavity and effectively bypasses the challenging blood-brain barrier (BBB). While traditional treatments involve high doses of oral anti-TB drugs, they often fail to achieve effective concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid as the BBB limits the medicines from entering the brain. To counter this, the INST team used nanoparticles made of a natural material called chitosan, which bypassed the BBB and delivered TB medicines directly to the brain via the nose. Chitosan is a biocompatible and biodegradable material. The chitosan nano-aggregates could hold TB drugs like isoniazid (INH) and rifampicin (RIF). Importantly, chitosan -- known for its mucoadhesive properties -- sticks to the nasal mucosa, which helps the nano-aggregates stay in place and prolongs the time they can release the drug, enhancing its therapeutic effectiveness. “In mice infected with TB, the nasal delivery of these nano-aggregates reduced the number of bacteria in the brain by nearly 1,000 times more than in untreated mice,” said the team in the paper, published in the journal Nanoscale (Royal Society of Chemistry). The new treatment method also helps reduce the inflammation caused by the infection, an advance that has the potential to greatly improve treatment for people suffering from brain TB and could help in faster recovery. According to scientists, the novel method could be applied to treat other brain infections, neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, brain tumours, and epilepsy by enabling efficient drug delivery to the brain.
17 October,2024 03:59 PM IST | New Delhi | IANS
Every year, October 16 is marked as World Spine Day around the world to raise awareness about spinal health and its importance in daily life. It was initiated by the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) in 2008. In today’s fast-paced world, many of us find ourselves glued to a desk for hours. While the convenience of office work has its perks, the toll it takes on our spinal health can be significant. Many office workers spend hours in front of a computer, often in unsuitable positions that can cause discomfort and pain. Over time, these habits can lead to structural changes in the spine, making it increasingly difficult to maintain a healthy posture, say experts. One's spine may sustain harm due to carelessness or due to failure to keep good posture. The backbone can also be harmed by spinal cord disorders and back traumas. Recognising the growing concerns about long working hours and their possible effects on spin health, mid-day.com reached out to health experts and interior designers to shed light on how sitting at our desks working can affect our spines. Dr Mazda K. Turel, brain & spine surgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai Central, and Dr Girish L. Bhalerao, super specialty consultant orthopaedic surgeon, Wockhardt Hospital in Mira Road, also offer practical tips to maintain spinal health. What causes spine problems for people who work full-time office jobs? Turel: Spine issues in full-time office workers are typically caused by prolonged sitting, poor posture, and repetitive strain. Sitting for long periods compresses the discs in the spine, causing them to lose flexibility over time. Inadequate ergonomic setups—such as poorly adjusted chairs, desks, or screens—further contribute to these problems by promoting slouching or awkward postures. Bhalerao: The extreme work culture where one needs to sit in one place for extended periods without taking enough breaks can negatively affect the spine and back. Over time, this can significantly strain the muscles and ligaments of the back and neck. Lack of a proper workplace like chairs that do not thoroughly support your back and neck while working can increase the risk of spine problems. What are the early signs of spine problems? Turel: Common early signs include: Back or neck pain (especially when sitting) Stiffness or decreased range of motion Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs Headaches, especially in the back of the head Muscle weakness or fatigue Bhalerao: Individuals may experience a range of symptoms that may be an early indication of spine-related problems. The symptoms can include sharp back pain, weakness in the limb, major changes in reflexes, loss of sensation, unevenness in the hip or shoulder, problems maintaining balance, neck pain, stiffness, and unintended weight loss. What consequences does poor posture have in the long run? Turel: Over time, poor posture can lead to chronic conditions like degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, or spinal stenosis. It may also cause musculoskeletal imbalances, leading to persistent pain, reduced mobility, and even nerve compression, which can cause more severe neurological symptoms. Bhalerao: Poor posture does more harm to your spine than you may think. Habits like slouching or back hunch can lead to chronic back pain. The unbearable back pain makes it difficult to perform daily activities like sitting for a longer duration. Other than that, it can also contribute to several long-term issues like chronic neck and shoulder pain, increased risk of spinal injuries, spinal misalignment, nerve compression, joint degeneration, muscle imbalances, reduced flexibility, and poor blood circulation. Which age group suffers the most? Turel: People between 30 and 50 years of age tend to experience the most spine issues. This group often combines long hours at desk jobs with declining physical activity, and age-related wear and tear begins to manifest in the spine. Bhalerao: Various factors are to be blamed for increased spinal problems. This is mostly due to a sedentary lifestyle, poor food choices, poor posture, certain medical conditions, and overuse of the spine. Do spinal issues impact people differently depending on their gender? Turel: Spinal problems can affect both men and women, but some differences do exist. Women, especially during pregnancy or menopause, may face increased risk due to hormonal changes that affect bone density and joint stability. Men, on the other hand, maybe more prone to lumbar disc herniation, often due to heavier lifting or more physically demanding tasks. Who is the most vulnerable to spine problems? Turel: These are the most vulnerable categories: Individuals who sit for long periods without breaks People who are physically inactive or have weak core muscles Those with poor posture or improper workstation ergonomics Older individuals who may suffer from age-related spinal degeneration Bhalerao: People with certain health conditions, physical inactivity, those with sedentary lifestyles such as office workers or students, poor posture, the elderly, obesity, and athletes who indulge in high-impact sports are more vulnerable to spine-related problems that can become life-threatening in later life if neglected. Also Read: World Arthritis Day 2024: Why more young people are developing arthritis What are the different types of spine diseases that affect people? Turel: These are the different conditions that can affect people: Herniated disc: A bulging or ruptured disc presses on a nerve, causing pain and sometimes numbness. Degenerative disc disease: The discs between vertebrae lose hydration and flexibility, leading to pain. Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal, compressing nerves. Scoliosis: Abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear of cartilage in the spine joints. Bhalerao: Several types of spine diseases can affect a range of people. This can include spine diseases like herniated discs, scoliosis, spinal stenosis, osteoporosis, degenerative disc, spinal infections, spondylolisthesis, ankylosing spondylitis, spina bifida, sciatic, ca, and spinal tumors. Do you have any suggestions for the best furniture to use in a workspace? Turel: Here are some options: Ergonomic chair: Adjustable in height with lumbar support to maintain the natural curve of the spine. Standing desk: Alternating between sitting and standing can reduce pressure on the spine, Footrest: To relieve pressure on the lower back. Monitor at eye level: This prevents strain on the neck and shoulders. Supportive keyboard and mouse placement: This should be close enough to avoid leaning forward. How can people prevent spine issues? Turel: People can follow these steps to prevent spine issues: Maintain good posture: Sit with your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and feet flat on the floor. Take frequent breaks: Stand, stretch, or walk around every 30 minutes. Strengthen core muscles: Strong core muscles support your spine. Invest in ergonomic furniture: A proper chair and desk setup will make a significant difference. Stay active: Regular exercise, including low-impact activities like walking or swimming, can prevent stiffness. Bhalerao: If you want to prevent spine problems then it becomes essential to take utmost care of your back. One of the common mistakes that can hamper your back health is poor posture. So, make sure that you are sitting in the correct posture while avoiding slouching or hunching. Strictly avoid lifting heavy things or boxes with improper technique as it can easily strain your back. Take frequent short breaks between working hours to avoid spinal problems. Eating a well-balanced diet that contains essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, lean protein, fiber, zinc, and iron can be helpful to keep your spine healthy. If you are someone who does not complete their daily intake of fluids then you should immediately leave this habit of yours as it can further lead to dehydration. Drinking enough water or fluid can help keep you hydrated while restoring the volume of your intervertebral discs. Engaging in physical activities or exercises for more than 45 minutes a day can be beneficial for your spine health. Focus on strengthening your core muscles to prevent spine issues in later life.
17 October,2024 11:15 AM IST | Mumbai | Joy ManikumarChildhood immunisations and low-cost prevention and treatments combined with new health technologies may help reduce premature deaths by 50 per cent, according to a new study published by The Lancet Commission on Tuesday. The report laid out a roadmap for every nation that chooses to do so to cut the chance of premature death for its citizens in half by 2050. “The goal of “50 by 50,” is achievable”, argues the report. If every country achieves the goal, then, a person born in 2050 would have only a 15 percent chance of dying before age 70, down from 31 per cent for someone born in 2019. It suggested measures such as “expanding childhood immunisations and low-cost prevention and treatments for common causes of preventable death, combined with scaling up financing to develop new health technologies”. Since 1970, about 37 countries have cut the probability of their citizens dying before they reach age 70 in half -- a milestone that signals the remarkable progress many countries have made in preventing and treating disease. “Today, the case is better than ever for mortality reduction,” said Gavin Yamey, director of the Duke University Center for Policy Impact in Global Health (CPIGH), who led the writing of the commission report. “It’s a prize within reach. It will have extraordinary health, welfare, and economic benefits. Reaching ‘50 by 50’ would reduce mortality and morbidity, help grow economies, and alleviate poverty,” Yamey added. The report urged countries to prioritise the 15 health conditions that cause most premature deaths -- including tuberculosis and respiratory infections, diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and other issues such as accidents and suicide. The researchers said that significant gains can be made in public health by "subsidising the costs of essential medicines, diagnostics, vaccines, and that address these 15 conditions. The report also called for increased taxation on tobacco products, unhealthy foods and drinks, and fossil fuels, which the researchers said would both reduce illness and death attributable to those products and raise revenue that can be reinvested in health systems. 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.
16 October,2024 02:12 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSRenowned gynaecologist Dr. Kotha Ushalakshmi, who was the inspiration behind Ushalakshmi Breast Cancer Foundation and KIMS-Ushalakshmi Centre for Breast Diseases passed away in Hyderabad on October 15. She was 91 years old. Born in 1933 in Guntur, she has been one of the most renowned gynaecologists from the Telugu states. Her only son and eminent breast surgeon Dr Raghu Ram said she passed away due to heart failure. Ushalakshmi graduated and later obtained her Postgraduate qualifications (DGO & MD) from Guntur Medical College. She worked as Professor of Obstetrics & Gynecology in Hyderabad, with the longest innings at Niloufer Hospital. “Although breast cancer was an unwelcome visitor in her life at the age of 69, she fought the disease with extraordinary courage and fierce determination. A brave and gritty breast cancer conqueror, She resolved to make a meaningful difference in the delivery of breast cancer care in India,” he said. With a vision to empower women about the importance of early detection of breast cancer and to start a population-based breast cancer screening programme, she founded Ushalakshmi Breast Cancer Foundation, a ‘not-for-profit breast cancer charity in September 2007. Her son Dr. Raghu Ram, a Padma Shri awardee, founded KIMS-Ushalakshmi Centre for Breast Diseases, which is South Asia’s first, free purpose-built comprehensive Breast Health Centre. During the last 17 years, he launched several unique and pioneering initiatives which attracted national and international recognition. The Association of Breast Surgeons of India (ABSI) instituted an annual “Dr.Ushalakshmi Oration” to honour her extraordinary contribution to breast cancer advocacy in the country. On September 29, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy felicitated Dr Kotha Ushalakshmi at the Pink Power Run 2024 organised to raise breast cancer awareness. 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.
16 October,2024 01:51 PM IST | Hyderabad | IANSIn a remarkable display of medical expertise and patient resilience, an 85-year-old woman has made a full recovery after undergoing a complex surgery for ovarian cancer at Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre in Mumbai. Savitri Agarwal was initially diagnosed through a CT Scan with an ovarian mass two months prior, when her grandson brought her to Dr Vishnu Agarwal. While surgery was recommended, the family grappled with the decision due to the octogenarian's advanced age and the associated risks. Unfortunately, Savitri's condition deteriorated rapidly. A month later, she was admitted to Jaslok Hospital with severe vomiting, abdominal pain, and intestinal blockage caused by the growing tumour. Her condition was critical, leaving her with a life expectancy of mere weeks if left untreated. A CT scan showed that the ovarian mass has blocked the intestine and she was not passing stool and everything was coming out in vomiting and abdomen was bloated not only because of mass but also because of intestinal obstruction. After extensive discussion with relatives Dr Agarwal, along with Dr Vivek Shetty and a skilled medical team, made the courageous decision to operate despite the significant risks posed by Savitri's age, frailty, and the complexity of the surgery. The extensive cytoreductive surgery involved removing the large ovarian mass, which was firmly attached to surrounding organs, necessitating the removal of part of her colon and spleen. The seven-hour surgery was a success with Savitri tolerating the procedure well and experiencing no complications. Under the expert post-operative care of Dr Shruti Tandon, intensivist at Jaslok Hospital, she recovered swiftly. Savitri was transferred from the ICU to the ward within two days, began walking the next day, and was discharged within a week. Today, she is living a normal life, enjoying a full diet and engaging in her daily activities, underlining the importance of clinical expertise, timely intervention, even in elderly patients, when surgery offers a chance of cure. Dr Agarwal, consultant, surgical oncology & robotic surgery at the hospital emphasises, "Age should never be a barrier to life-saving treatment. While Savitri's case presented significant challenges, timely intervention offered her a chance to cure. This underscores that even in complex cases involving elderly patients, bold decisions and timely surgery can lead to full recoveries." "Upon receiving my diagnosis, I was nervous about the possibility of undergoing surgery at my age. However, Dr. Agarwal and the entire team at Jaslok Hospital instilled in me a sense of hope and confidence. Their compassion and unwavering dedication were truly remarkable. Thanks to their expertise, I am now able to enjoy life to the fullest with my loved ones. My message to others is this: never give up hope, regardless of your age." shared Savitri. Dr. Milind Khadke, director of medical services at the hospital, stated, "This case is a testament to the extraordinary strides in modern medical science and the resilience of our patients. Savitri Agarwal's successful recovery, despite her advanced age, highlights our hospital's commitment to providing top-tier, comprehensive care for all our patients. Jaslok believed that age should not be a limiting factor in pursuing treatment when there's an opportunity to improve quality of life. Our dedicated and well-trained team, coupled with quality nursing care and cutting-edge technology, is proud to be a part of her journey to recovery.
16 October,2024 01:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSenior people who are socially isolated are more likely to have an insufficient intake of key micronutrients such as vitamin C and vitamin B6, increasing their risk of health problems, according to a new study. The researchers from University College London (UCL) found that people who were more socially isolated were more likely to have a lower than recommended intake of five micronutrients that are essential for health: magnesium, potassium, vitamin C, folate and vitamin B6. These micronutrients are typically found in small quantities in fruit, vegetables, legumes (such as peas, beans and lentils) and fish, suggesting a diet lacking in these food sources. “This is important as inadequate intake of these micronutrients puts people at greater risk of health problems as they get older,” said professor Andrew Steptoe from UCL Behavioural Science and Health in the study published in the journal Age and Ageing. One explanation for this link is that if people are more isolated, they might not have others around them to provide information about what is healthy and encourage a more varied diet. Older people also tend to stick to diets they know and might not vary their foods as much as they used to, said the authors. Researchers used data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA), in which a nationally representative population sample in England answers a wide range of questions every two years. The respondents were scored on how socially isolated they were, based on whether they lived alone, how frequently they saw friends and relatives outside their household, and whether they took part in any clubs or organisations. The team found that a one-point increase in participants’ social isolation score was linked to a higher likelihood of inadequate intake of five out of nine key micronutrients two years later. Social isolation was not linked to a higher likelihood of inadequate calcium, iron and vitamin B12, micronutrients largely derived from meat, eggs and dairy. This suggested that people who were less socially connected in the study may be more likely to have a more traditional diet with fewer vegetables (such as dark leafy greens), fruit, nuts, seeds and legumes. Also Read: A guide to when and how to change your therapist 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
16 October,2024 12:43 PM IST | Mumbai | IANS
Last week, a Kanpur couple's fraud of promising people an anti-ageing therapy came to light after a complaint was filed against them by one of the victims who suffered loss of money. Duping many people 35 crore, according to reports citing the investigation, they offered people 'Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy' inside a "Time machine" that could make 65-year-olds feel like 25-year-olds again. It was also reported that the machine for the therapy that was said to be made in Israel was later found to be made in the city of Uttar Pradesh itself. Anti-ageing therapies are not new and their promise of making people look younger is very alluring and tempting for people who want to look young. However, they may often jump at it without enough information about the therapy. With the popularity of anti-ageing therapies over the years, mid-day.com spoke to Dr Shareefa Chause, a dermatologist at Shareefa Skin Care Clinic in Mumbai, and Dr. Shraddha Deshpande, an aesthetic, plastic, and reconstructive surgeon, at Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai Central, to shed light on Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. They not only highlight the benefits of the therapy but also warn about the side effects and the need to check with a medical professional before going ahead with anti-ageing procedures. What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy and how is it done? Chause: HBO2 therapy consists of using pure oxygen at increased pressure (3 atmospheric pressure) leading to increased oxygen levels in blood and tissue. It is done in case of serious wounds, burns, and infections. Deshpande: Patients typically sit or lie in a sealed chamber, and the increased pressure allows more oxygen to reach damaged tissues, promoting healing and reducing inflammation. What are the known benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy? Chause: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy consists of breathing pure oxygen in a pressurised environment. Moreover, this therapy is useful for skin grafts and flaps, and wound healing, it also helps for anti-ageing, as it helps in angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels) and even gangrene. Deshpande: HBOT is known to accelerate wound healing, treat carbon monoxide poisoning, and help manage conditions like diabetic foot ulcers, decompression sickness, and certain infections. The therapy also promotes tissue regeneration by increasing oxygen delivery to cells, aiding recovery from injuries and surgeries. What are the side effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy? Chause: The side effects of this therapy involve trauma to the middle ear, low blood sugar, sinus problems, chest pain (rarely), and claustrophobia in some patients. It is imperative to take the therapy under a certified expert. Deshpande: Common side effects include ear discomfort, sinus pain, or temporary vision changes due to pressure variations. In rare cases, oxygen toxicity, lung collapse (pneumothorax), or seizures may occur if the therapy is misused or conducted inappropriately. Is it safe to do this kind of oxygen therapy? Are there other kinds? Chause: It is safe if a medical professional person is doing this procedure under their guidance and in a hospital setup. One can surely opt for it on the recommendation of the doctor. Deshpande: HBOT is generally safe when administered by trained professionals. However, it may not be suitable for everyone. Other oxygen therapies include supplemental oxygen therapy for respiratory conditions. Always consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate therapy. What should people keep in mind while opting for this therapy? Chause: Before starting this therapy, a detailed history should be given to the doctor, especially if they are having any kind of ear or lung problems. High-risk patients having respiratory issues should avoid this therapy. Deshpande: Before opting for HBOT, ensure it's administered in a certified facility under medical supervision. Discuss your medical history with your doctor, particularly lung, ear, or sinus issues. Avoid self-administered treatments and understand the possible risks and benefits. Can people look for certain certifications from the people doing it? Chause: Yes, as I mentioned, earlier a medical professional person will do such kind of procedure under their guidance, cause if anything happens then they know what exactly they have to do. Deshpande: Yes, ensure the facility is accredited by relevant health authorities, such as the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS). Medical personnel should be certified in hyperbaric medicine and have proper training to administer the therapy safely. What are the different anti-ageing therapies or treatments available today? Chause: There are many therapies and treatments available for antiaging. Starting from basic supplements to creams, lasers, and procedures like Botox and fillers. One has to choose the right kind of treatment with the help of an expert and follow the guidelines for optimum results. Deshpande: Common anti-aging treatments include Botox, dermal fillers, laser therapies, chemical peels, and microneedling. Non-invasive options like PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and radiofrequency therapy are also popular. Additionally, supplements, skincare products, and lifestyle changes contribute to anti-aging efforts. What is the purpose of these anti-ageing therapies and do they even work? Chause: The purpose of anti-ageing therapy is to delay the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Furthermore, yes it does help but you have to add lifestyle modifications for better results such as exercising eating a well-balanced diet and staying stress-free by doing yoga and meditation. Deshpande: Anti-aging therapies aim to reduce the visible signs of aging, like wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. Many treatments, such as Botox or fillers, provide temporary results, while others promote long-term skin health. Effectiveness varies depending on the therapy and individual factors. Who shouldn't be opting for anti-ageing therapies? Chause: Anybody can opt for anti-ageing treatment because there are many treatment options available, if one is not suitable for you then you can go for another. Let your doctor decide what works best for you the best. The therapy should strictly be done under skilled experts. Everyone should be empowered to make informed choices for successful outcomes. Deshpande: Individuals with certain health conditions, skin allergies, or infections should avoid anti-aging treatments. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also consult a doctor before undergoing such therapies. Always consult with a medical professional to assess personal suitability. With a lot of therapies going viral online, is it safe to believe them? Chause: No, it is not safe to believe the therapies that are going viral online. While one may suit some people, it will not suit others. It is because everybody has different skin types, so they have to select the product or procedure according to their skin concern by consulting their doctor. Don’t just follow anyone or any trend blindly. Deshpande: Not all viral therapies are backed by scientific evidence. Always verify treatments with credible medical professionals before trying them. Avoid DIY or non-professional procedures as they can be unsafe, ineffective, or cause harmful side effects. Also Read: Ratan Tata reportedly had hypotension; Mumbai doctors highlight why you should take low blood pressure seriously
16 October,2024 11:38 AM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoADVERTISEMENT
