BeatO and IIHMR-Delhi launch a unique course to fill the gap for skilled Diabetes care professionals

n a bid to amplify awareness about diabetes and to address the growing need for diabetes care and management in the country, BeatO – a comprehensive digital care platform for controlling and reversing diabetes, has partnered with The International Institute of Health Management Research (IIHMR) Delhi – a globally recognized and leading healthcare research institute in the country, to launch a competitive  course – Certificate in Diabetes Education. This 10-week course is an industry-first collaboration between a health-tech platform and an esteemed educational and research institute in India. The course aims to provide comprehensive training to healthcare professionals which will eventually bridge the gap in the availability of diabetes care educators in India. We envision creating a field force of certified diabetes educators who will significantly contribute to the prevention and control of this life-style disease.

A recent report by FICCI and KPMG, titled “Strengthening healthcare workforce in India: the 2047 agenda”,[1] highlights the need to improve education infrastructure and social benefits to promote healthcare as a preferred profession in the future. The report also states that India has 33.5 health workers per 10,000 population, which is lower than the WHO recommendation of 44.5 skilled health workers per 10,000 persons. The gap between  demand and supply of the healthcare workforce and the availability of healthcare education institutes is apparent.

Speaking on the collaboration, Gautam Chopra, the CEO and Founder of BeatO, said, “Diabetes is a significant public health issue in India, and it requires a multidisciplinary approach to manage the condition effectively. We are pleased to announce this diabetes educator certification course in collaboration with  IIHMR-Delhi – a  leader in the healthcare education space. This partnership is aligned with our mission to provide high-quality diabetes care to people across India. We are confident that this course will help train healthcare professionals who can provide comprehensive diabetes care.”

Link – https://drive.google.com/file/d/10jn2jhNK4jAncrmeOMm7VQNzmUaNhU-c/view

The Certificate in Diabetes Education aims to address the gap by providing healthcare professionals like paramedical staff, nurses, dietitians, and caretakers working in hospitals, clinics or in the community with  necessary skills and knowledge to provide high-quality care to people with diabetes. Through this course the healthcare professionals will  gain hands-on experience in diabetes care. BeatO experts will leverage best clinical practices, scientific studies, and vast experience of diabetes care professionals towards  practical training components and IIHMR-Delhi will lend technical expertise towards quality assurance, systematic  delivery, and certification. Upon completion of the course, the aspirants will receive  certification from BeatO and IIHMR-Delhi.

“At BeatO, we are striving continuously to ensure that every person with Diabetes in India has access to quality healthcare, and this course with IIHMR-Delhi is a step in the same direction.” Chopra further added.

The curriculum of the course is designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of healthcare professionals in managing diabetes.

“We are delighted to partner with BeatO to launch this unique Certificate in Diabetes Education course,” said Prof. Sutapa B. Neogi, Director of IIHMR-Delhi,  a renowned public health specialist. “Designed in collaboration with BeatO, it will equip healthcare professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide personalized care to people with diabetes across the nation. Our partnership with BeatO will help pave the way for partnerships between academia and industry in India, which will  address the shortage of trained diabetes care professionals in India. We are proud to offer a course in collaboration with BeatO that we strongly believe will improve the quality of diabetes care in the country.”

Course Director Dr. Navneet Agrawal, Chief Clinical Officer at BeatO, added, “Millions of individuals in India are affected by  diabetes, a chronic health condition. Numerous consequences, including cardiovascular illness, nerve damage, renal damage, and vision loss, may result from it if it is not managed properly. Doctors  prescribe medications and give advice, but the continuity of care and adherence to a proper lifestyle needs  constant support from a certified professional. This course will enable and empower people with diabetes, their caretakers and healthcare professionals to ensure that they lead a healthy life and avoid undue complications.”

Diabetes management is intricate therefore to ensure access to quality and affordable healthcare, BeatO aims to establish a standard for specialization through its expertise and knowledge in patient-centric diabetes care.

Protect Your Nose and Sinuses: Understanding Workplace Exposures That Can Lead to Cancer

Dr. M G Giriyappagoudar, Consultant Radiation Oncologist, HCG NMR, Hubli

A workplace can be a significant source of exposure to harmful substances, including those chemical substances that may lead to cancer. Among the organs of the body that can be affected by workplace exposures, nose and sinuses are particularly vulnerable. Nose and paranasal sinus cancer is a severe and rare type of cancer that affects the nasal cavity and surrounding sinuses. The delicate tissues lining the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses are highly vulnerable to damage from environmental exposures. Regular exposure to harmful substances like dust, chemicals, and radiation can damage these tissues, leading to cancer over time.

Wood dust is one of the most common workplace exposures that can lead to nose and paranasal sinus cancer. Individuals working in the woodworking industry or with sawdust and other wood-based products are at particular risk. Wood dust contains several harmful substances, including carcinogenic chemicals that can damage the delicate nasal tissues over time. Studies have shown that workers in the woodworking industry have a significantly higher risk of developing nose and paranasal sinus cancer than the general population. Hence, it is crucial to be aware of the various workplace exposures that may cause this cancer and take the necessary precautions to minimize exposure to harmful substances.

Another workplace exposure that can lead to nose and paranasal sinus cancer is exposure to certain chemicals. This includes chemicals such as formaldehyde, commonly used in producing plastics, textiles, and other materials. Exposure to formaldehyde can cause irritation and inflammation of the nasal tissues, increasing the risk of cancer over time. Other chemicals that are known to be carcinogenic include benzene, vinyl chloride, and chromium compounds.

Radiation exposure is another workplace exposure that can lead to nose and paranasal sinus cancer. This is a particular concern for individuals who work in the nuclear industry and those who work with X-ray machines and other sources of ionizing radiation. Radiation can damage the DNA in cells, which can lead to the development of cancer over time. In fact, studies have shown that workers in the nuclear industry have a significantly higher risk of developing nose and paranasal sinus cancer than the general population.

Other workplace exposures that have been linked to nose and paranasal sinus cancer include exposure to leather dust, nickel, and arsenic. Leather dust is a concern for individuals who work in the leather tanning and processing industry and those who work with leather-based products. Nickel and arsenic are commonly used in various industries, including metalworking, mining, and agriculture. Exposure to these substances can cause damage to the delicate tissues of the nasal cavity and sinuses, which can increase the risk of cancer over time.

It is important to note that not everyone who is exposed to these workplace exposures will develop nose and paranasal sinus cancer. However, individuals who are regularly exposed to these substances should take steps to protect themselves from harm. This can include wearing protective equipment, such as masks and gloves, as well as taking regular breaks to minimize exposure.

In addition to workplace exposures, there are other risk factors that can increase the risk of the nose and paranasal sinus cancer. These include smoking, exposure to second-hand smoke, and a family history of the disease. Individuals who are at high risk of developing nose and paranasal sinus cancer should check with their healthcare provider about screening and other preventative measures.

Everything You Need to Know About Osteoarthritis

By Dr. Chetan Jakaraddi, Consultant & Surgeon Joint Replacement and Arthoscopy, HCG Hubli

Called by many names like, wear-and-tear arthritis, degenerative arthritis, Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a chronic condition that can cause pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints. Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint, but it is most commonly found in the hands, knees, hips, and spine. 

Among a leading cause of disability, there are multiple reasons that cause Osteoarthritis one of which is the wear and tear of the cartilage that cushions the joints. Cartilage is a tough, rubbery tissue that covers the ends of bones in a joint, allowing them to glide smoothly over each other. As we age, the cartilage in our joints usually become thin and damaged, leading to osteoarthritis. Other factors that can contribute to the development of osteoarthritis include:

Obesity: Being overweight puts extra stress on the joints, which can accelerate the wear and tear of cartilage.

Injury: Previous joint injuries can increase the risk of developing post traumatize arthritis later in life.

Genetics: Genetic predisposition can make a person more susceptible to developing osteoarthritis.

Occupation: Jobs that involve repetitive motions or heavy lifting can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.

The symptoms of osteoarthritis can vary depending on the severity of the disease and the joint(s) affected. 

Some common symptoms of osteoarthritis include:

Pain: The pain associated with osteoarthritis is typically described as a deep ache in the joint that worsens with activity and improves with rest.

Stiffness: Osteoarthritis can cause stiffness in the affected joint, especially in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity.

Swelling: The joint may become swollen and tender to the touch.

Limited mobility: As the disease progresses, the joint may become less mobile, making it difficult to perform daily activities. Joint instability due to muscle weakness can lead to walking difficulty & falls.

Osteoarthritis is typically diagnosed through a physical exam and patient’s medical history. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the disease. Blood tests are not typically used to diagnose osteoarthritis. Once the diagnosis is made treatment is usually required. Whole There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but there are a variety of treatments available to help manage the symptoms of the disease. Some common treatments for osteoarthritis include:

Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help relieve pain and inflammation in the affected joint.

Physical therapy: Exercises and stretches prescribed by a physical therapist can help improve mobility and reduce pain.

Injections: Corticosteroid injections into the affected joint can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Surgery: In severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be necessary to replace the damaged joint with an artificial one.

While there is no surefire way to prevent osteoarthritis, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing the disease. These include:

Maintaining a healthy weight: Losing excess weight can reduce the stress on joints, especially those in the hips, knees, and spine.

Staying active: Regular exercise can help keep joints healthy and reduce the risk of injury.

Protecting joints: Avoiding repetitive abnormal motions and using proper form when lifting heavy objects can help protect joints from damage.

Osteoarthritis is a common and chronic joint disease that can cause pain, stiffness, and inflammation. While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, there are a variety of treatments available to help manage the symptoms of the disease. Additionally, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis, including maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and protecting joints. If you are experiencing joint pain or stiffness, it is important to speak with your doctor to determine the cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. With proper management, individuals with osteoarthritis can maintain a good quality of life and continue to participate in daily activities.

HCG EKO Cancer Centre Kolkata Steps Up to Raise Awareness and Support for Thalassemia-affected Children

HCG EKO Cancer Centre Kolkata recently organised an inspiring event to commemorate World Thalassemia Day, aimed at bringing a smile to the faces of children fighting the disease. Together with the Eastern Bulls biker group, the HCG EKO Cancer Center arranged a fun-filled day of activities that began with a thrilling bike rally. 30 participants from the Enfield biker group took part, including children affected by Thalassemia, who joined the riders as pillion passengers. The event was graced by the presence of the Chief Guest, Mr Debashis Sen, IAS and Chairman, New Town Kolkata DA (NKDA) who hoisted the national flag.

The excitement continued throughout the day with a range of events organised to brighten up the day for the young patients. The highlight of the day was a drawing competition, where children had the opportunity to showcase their artistic talents and compete for prizes. In addition to this, an entertainment event was organised to keep the children entertained and their spirits high with many more activities.

The hospital also organised a blood donation camp, where bikers and employees could donate blood to the Thalassemia Guardians Association, a non-governmental organisation supporting children affected by the disease in the city.  The centre also provided medication to help control the disease and aid the children in their fight against it.

Mr Prateek Jain, Regional Business Head of Healthcare Global Enterprises Ltd -East & AP, said, “At every opportunity, we strive to make a positive impact on our community, and what better way to do so than by bringing joy to children who are bravely fighting Thalassemia. HCG’s mission is to provide essential resources and support to these children and their families, and we hope that our efforts have brought them some much-needed relief and happiness. We are also grateful to the incredible bikers from Eastern Bulls who joined us in this initiative, making the day even more memorable for the children. Let’s continue to come together and spread joy in our community, one child at a time.”

 

Dr Amarjeet Singh, Chief Operating Officer at HCG EKO Cancer Centre Kolkata, added, “We are thrilled to be part of this incredible initiative as we believe educating people about Thalassemia is essential. This genetic disease affects so many, and raising awareness is the first step towards gaining a deeper understanding of it. By taking this step, HCG is making a significant impact in spreading knowledge and creating a more compassionate and informed community. This vision aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing exceptional care to all of our patients.”

 

Dr Joydeep Chakrabartty, Hemato Oncologist at HCG EKO Cancer Centre Kolkata, said, “As a hospital that provides world-class cancer care, we understand first-hand the challenges that children with Thalassemia face. This genetic disease affects so many, yet it is often not talked about enough. That’s why we are fully committed to supporting these children and their families through every step of their journey. By participating in this initiative, we hope to raise much-needed awareness about the disease and emphasize the importance of providing the necessary support and care for those affected.”

At HCG EKO Cancer Centre Kolkata, supporting children affected by Thalassemia is a top priority, and they are dedicated to raising awareness about the disease. The hospital is proud to contribute to the Thalassemia Guardians Association’s efforts to provide care and support to children with Thalassemia. This event was a testament to their commitment to their patients and the community.

Long term contract worth $53 Million (₹436 crores) renewed with the leading German Multinational

Anupam Rasayan India Limited (“Anupam Rasayan”) (NSE: ANURAS; BSE: 543275), one of India’s leading custom synthesis & speciality chemical players, has renewed long term contract worth revenue of $53 Mn (₹436 crores) with one of the leading German multinational for supply of patented life science speciality chemical for the next 3 years on exclusive basis. This renewal is in accordance with the automatic renewal clause agreed upon by the parties in the long-term agreement signed three years ago, following the completion of the original contract duration of three years.

 

Speaking about the contract renewal, Anand Desai, Managing Director of Anupam Rasayan, said, “With a consistent supply at a lower cost owing to process optimisation led by strong R&D, this contract renewal reaffirms our position as a preferred supplier to the MNCs, showcasing the trust and reliability that have been established over the years.

 

Furthermore, we anticipate the volumes of this molecule to increase beyond the minimum offtake volumes, considering the high-growth end market. The renewed contract not only solidifies our position as a reliable supplier but also highlights our agility in meeting the evolving needs of clients. This contract renewal, along with recently signed LOIs assures the consistent and steady growth trajectory of the company.”

Skin Cancer: How to Recognize and Identify Early Signs to treat them

Dr Gaurav Goel, Consultant Surgical Oncologist, HCG Cancer Centre, Jaipur

Cancer is a serious disease that occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the body. There are many types of cancer, and it can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity. Skin cancer is a prevalent ailment that affects millions of people worldwide. It is an abnormal growth of cells that begins to develop on the skin’s surface, usually from exposure to ultraviolet radiation. There are several skin cancer types, each with its peculiar attributes and treatment options. Below are the most typical forms of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

 

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), which accounts for about 80% of all cases, develops on areas of the skin exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck and hands. BCC grows slowly but can be locally invasive, damaging the surrounding tissue. The most common type of BCC is a raised, pearly, or shiny bump that may have tiny blood vessels on the surface. It may also appear as a flat, scaly, or reddish patch on the skin. The tumor may become more extensive if left untreated, causing disfigurement or other complications. The treatment of BCC typically requires the surgical removal of the tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue. Other forms of treatment may include radiation therapy, topical medications, or cryotherapy, which entails freezing the tumor with liquid nitrogen.

 

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer. It accounts for 20% of all cases and is more likely to increase than BCC. SCC develops in skin areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, and hands. The most frequent symptom of SCC is a firm, red bump or a scaly patch on the skin that may bleed or crust over. It may also appear as a wart–like growth or an open sore that does not heal.  Treatment for SCC generally involves surgical removal of the tumor and the surrounding tissue margin. Other treatment options may include radiation therapy, topical medications, or photodynamic therapy, which utilizes light to activate a photosensitizing agent that destroys cancer cells.

 

Melanoma

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, accounting for about 1% of all cases. It can grow anywhere on the skin, including areas not exposed to the sun. Melanoma spreads quickly to other body parts and can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated promptly. The most common symptom of melanoma is a new or changing mole or dark spot on the skin. It may be asymmetrical, have irregular borders, be multi–coloured, or have a diameter larger than a pencil

eraser. Treatment of melanoma usually involves surgical removal of the tumor and the surrounding tissue margin. Other treatment options may include immunotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. 

 

Prevention and Early Detection of Skin Cancer

Protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays is the best way to prevent skin cancer. This can be done by wearing protective clothing, such as long–sleeved shirts and hats, and using a broad–spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher. Furthermore, avoiding tanning beds and seeking shade during peak sun hours is also essential. Wearing sunglasses that block both UV-B and UV-A rays to protect your eyes and using a lip balm with sunscreen is also an excellent way to protect different areas of skin. 

 

Early detection is also crucial for the successful treatment of skin cancer. One should perform regular self – examinations of your skin and report any changes to your doctor. It is recommended to have routine skin cancer screenings, especially if you have a family history of skin cancer or have previously had skin cancer. Thus, it wouldn’t be incorrect to say that skin cancer is a severe condition with life–altering consequences if not detected and treated early. Understanding the different types of skin cancer is vital in recognizing the signs and seeking appropriate treatment. Remember to prioritize your skin health and consult if you notice any concerning changes in your skin.