Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

A 39 years old male, from Betul, MP, came to Orange City Hospital & Research Institute with h/o severe pain & weakness in Lt. Leg and difficulty in walking since 6 months. He was diagnosed as Neurofibromatosis Lt. Leg with neuropathy and had been attending various hospitals of City and Central India and even approached AIIMS and Medanta Hospital, New Delhi but no relief. They were conveyed that there is chance of losing power in left leg after surgery. He used to shrike in pain due to the radiating pain caused by compression of two main nerves by the tumors. He came to OCHRI after being counselled by his father. He was admitted under care of Dr. Shailesh Kelkar- OCHRI Senior Neurosurgeon. He was thoroughly investigated and diagnosed as Neurofibromatosis encasing the Left femoral and Left Tibial nerves with related Neuropathy. Inspite of risks involved; his relatives having complete faith on OCHRI due to previous successful treatment gained by many of Betul residents since last 23 years; consented for surgical intervention by Dr. Shailesh Kelkar as it was very unbearably painful for the patient.

Dr. Shailesh Kelkar said that “Neurofibromas tend to encase the nerve roots, in contrast to schwannomas which commonly displace the nerve root due to their asymmetric growth. Schwannomas are usually round, whereas Neurofibromas are more commonly fusiform.” This patient was suffering from Plexiform Neurofibromatosis and had to be excised as it was causing compressive symptoms on two important left leg nerves, he added.

The intricate surgery for resection of rare and complicatedly positioned tumors over both Left Femoral & Tibial nerves was performed by Dr. Shailesh Kelkar. Dr. Neeta Deshpande-Anesthetist provided the necessary anesthesia. Dr. Kavita Dhurvey, SMO Incharge- Surgery and Sr. Geetanjali assisted them. Dr. Rajesh Atal, Critical Care Physician look after pre & post-operative management. Dr. Milind Pande- Pathologist and Dr. Nishikant Lokhande, Radiologist rendered diagnostic support while full time round the clock team of medical officers Dr. Mayur, Dr. Usha, Dr. Swati, Dr. Rivyani led by Dr. Anit Prakash, SMO I/c Wards provided necessary post op care. Smt.Nisha Ashok and Sr. Jaismita Bhongale led nursing & paramedical team in Operation theatre and wards while Dr.Atul Dekate led the team of Physiotherapists. The surgery was uneventful and post operatively; he was happy, ambulatory and discharged home. The relatives thanked TEAM OCHRI led by Dr. Shailesh Kelkar for the care and concern.

Dr. Anup Marar- OCHRI Director complimented Dr. Shailesh Kelkar and his team and stated that although many head injury “hot” cases are routinely managed at OCHRI; it is “Cold” neurological case management (like tumors etc.) that proves the surgical acumen of OCHRI Department of Neurosurgery which presently comprises of 3 Neurosurgeons Dr. Shailesh Kelkar, Dr. Sumit Hire and Dr. Shailendra Anjankar. Needy central Indians with varied brain and spine tumors apart from spinal disc complaints reach OCHRI to seek solace in view of the round the clock comprehensive diagnostic, surgical, critical care and rehabilitation facilities available under one roof. He thanked the family for having shown faith on OCHRI after having visited best of centers in India. He added that OCHRI attracts many needy patients from Betul and others districts of Madhya Pradesh and even Chhattisgarh for varied diseases.

Betul resident gets relief from Nerve tumors Dr. Shailesh Kelkar successfully performs intricate nerve tumor surgeries

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Govt de-panels three

Nagpur: According to the news report published in local English daily newspaper, some hospitals in nagpur are violating the norms or failing to provide healthcare to people from poor strata by not implementing various health schemes.

Taking serious cognizance of complaints from patients, Department of Public Health has depanelled three hospitals while Chief Minister Office (CMO), too, has blacklisted some hospitals. The reason both the agencies cited as overcharging or showing adamancy by hospitals till they get their payment.

Department of Public Health runs Mahatma Phule Jan Aarogya Yojna (MPJAY) and some hospitals voluntarily agreed to get empanelled. There are about 1,000 procedures in the scheme and the distribution of patients is done on the basis of their financial condition and supportive documents. The amount to be paid by Government is different but fixed for every procedure to be given to the hospital. There were some complaints by the patients and their relatives that hospitals charge more than the amount prescribed for the procedure. Recently, Meditrina Hospital was depanelled for not following the norms. Similarly, acting on the complaints, and inspecting the reality, the MPJAY section had depanelled G T Padole Hospital, CARE Hospital and City Hospital, Kamptee.

Chief Minister Office in Nagpur also provide help to the needy patients for their treatment. It also received some complaints regarding hospitals’ refusal to treat patients because of non-receipt of money, claimed the newspaper report.

CMO too blacklisted four hospitals. They include New Era Hospital, Lakadganj; HCG NCHRI near Kamptee road, CURE Hospital, umred road and Venus Hospital, Indora. Several hospitals those still are in list complaint, they don’t get payments from Government in time. It takes lot of time but while treating patients hospitals can not leave any stone unturned.

According to the newspaper reports published one owner of the Hospitals said that they don’t have good experience at CMO where the in-charge does not respond well.

New Era Hospital,CURE Hospital in Nagpur among four hospital blacklisted by CMO

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Orange City Hospital & Research Institute follows a unique working model wherein various charitable commitments are pursued with great enthusiasm in a missionary manner. To commemorate Doctors Day 2019, Mega Blood Donation Camp was held at Jaivik Hall, Orange City Hospital & Research Institute. Objective of this camp was to bridge the scarcity of blood during summer and to create awareness about importance of blood donation. Voluntary blood donors included OCHRI doctors, staff and relatives of patients. This initiative was organized in association with Jeevan Jyoti Blood Bank, which is the mother blood bank of OCHRI’s Blood storage unit and Orange City Bahu Uddeshiya Sanstha, which is a staff welfare body comprising of members from all hierarchies of OCHRI.

On this occasion, Dr. Usha Nair- Director- RNHPL stated that, “In India National Doctors’ Day is celebrated on July 1 all across India to honor the legendary physician, Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy. He was born on July 1, 1882 and died on the same date in 1962. So to commemorate Doctors Day in a novel way; OCHRI organized Blood Donation Camp to benefit needy patients.

Dr. Anup Marar, Director- OCHRI said that “Donation of Blood is a gesture of Goodwill and Care for the fellow human beings. There is no Gift more valuable than this, as it is actually a gift of life for the person who receives it. Blood is replaceable but a life is not.”

Dr. Sheela Mundhada, Director- JJBB conveyed her gratitude to OCHRI and OCBUS and stated that the passion and brotherhood seen in OCHRI is exemplary. Dr. Noorul Ameen, Smt. Priya Sashi, Jessy Abraham, Shri. Ganesh Iyer, Ms. Bharati Badwaik, Shri.Prakash Shende, Shri. Avinash Ganar, Shri. Santosh Mykalwar, Shri. Sachin Gajbhiye, Shri. Kapil Menkudale, Anil Dhakate, Sameer Badhe, Prashant Tichkule, Madhukar Chanore, from OCHRI and Ms. Sheeja Anish, Suchita Paratkar, Neelima Nanoti, Sandeep Laul, Rahul Baghe, Dinesh Ramteke of JJBB took immense efforts for successfully organizing this camp.

OCHRI Doctors & staff donate blood on Doctors day 2019

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Senior RSS functionary and very respectable figure in Nagpur circles Mr. Anant Vyavhare, 75-year male resident of Gajanan Nagar, Wardha Road was brought to Casualty on 10th April 2019 around 11.50am with alleged history of Road Traffic Accident at Veer Sawarkar Square, Nagpur. Some vehicle had dashed him and ran away. He was admitted under Care of Dr. Rajesh Atal – Critical care Physician & Dr. Shailendra Anjankar- Neuro-Surgeon, OCHRI.

He had history of unconsciousness and vomiting and on examination it was noted that he was comatose with GCS 6/15, Pinpoint pupils and multiple abrasions and associated systemic complications. He was immediately resuscitated in Casualty itself by OCHRI Polytrauma team.

CT scan showed Right Temporal Extra Dural hemorrhage (EDH), Left temporo-parietal Sub Dural hemorrhage(SDH), Left parietal Sub Arachnoid hemorrhage(SAH), Pontine Contusion and fracture of Right Zygomatic arch. As per standard treatment protocol he was treated with IV antibiotics, Anti epileptics, ionotropes, anti-edema measures and ventilator supports, with other allied supportive comprehensive conservative management with excellent nursing care and comprehensive physiotherapy and dietary rehabilitation. He was on & off ventilator for many days and was admitted for months in OCHRI CCU. Unfortunately, during this testing times, OCHRI also faced allegations of keeping a lifeless person on ventilator.

The resolute faith and total trust of family of said patient on hospital and the treating team led to his successful management. Many dignitaries visited the hospital to check on his wellbeing. Shri.Mohanji Bhagwat, RSS Sarsanghchalak visited him many times and is always in touch with hospital authorities to learn about the progress. His judicious Spartan lifestyle, earnest wishes and complete confidence of Governor Shri.Banwarlilalji Purohit, Union Minister Shri.Nitinji Gadkari, Chief Minister Shri.Devendraji Fadanvis, Guardian Minister Shri.Chandrashekharji Bawankule, Shri.Sandipji Joshi, Dr. Dilipji Gupta and thousands of his well-wishers on Team OCHRI helped them to patiently pull him from jaws of death.

Presently he is stationed in wards, off ventilator, on oral medicines, undergoing rehabilitation and recouping well. Team OCHRI led by Dr.Anup Marar- OCHRI Director thanked his family and well-wishers for reposing such unflinching confidence

Dr. Shailesh Kelkar- Neurosurgeon, Dr. Nikhil Balankhe – Critical Physician, Dr. Dhananjay Kane- General Surgeon, Dr. Darshan Rewanwar & Dr. Gaurav Jannawar – Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Chetan Vekhande- Neuro-Physician, Dr. Siddhartha Saoji- ENT specialist and Dr. Ninad Gawande- Medico Legal Consultant supported Dr. Rajesh Atal & Dr. Shailendra Anjankar. Dr. Milind Pande- Pathologist, Dr. Smita Harkare/Dr.Neeta Deshpande/ Dr. Anita Pande- Anesthetists, Dr. Nishikant Lokhande – Radiologist rendered diagnostic support while full time round the clock stationed Intensivist team consisting of Dr. Sweety Pasari, Dr. Roshan Jawlekar, Dr. Santosh Gadge, Dr. Akshay Burlawar, Dr. Sachin Gondane and Dr. Himanshu Dudeja provided critical care support. Dr. Atul Dekate & Team are providing necessary physiotherapy rehabilitation. Smt.Mansi Andhare- Dietician, Dr. Anit Prakash- SMO I/c Wards and Dr. Kavita Dhurvey- SMO I/c Surgery assisted them. Sr. Sindhu Rao & Sr. Mary Chacko- Ward Section Supervisors lead nursing & paramedical team in Critical care unit and Wards.

Bacchuji Vyavhare Recouping At OCHRI

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Hypertension management together with trans-fat elimination – a route to reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease

Nagpur: Deaths due to cardiovascular diseases like heart attack and stroke are on the rise across the country and in Maharashtra, in specific. Hypertension is the most important preventable cause for developing cardiovascular diseases. In a clarion call for urgent action and widespread awareness among people to reign in this silent epidemic, Disha Foundation held a media dialogue with health experts, policymakers and journalists in Nagpur.

Presently, the overall prevalence of hypertension in Maharashtra is 25% as per a research article by PLOS journal. Furthermore, the intake of trans-fatty acids has increased the risk of deaths due to heart attacks by 4% that is 8,253 deaths every year. These deaths could have been easily avoided by taking the right measures and building a strategic approach like reducing industrially produced trans fats in foods.

Dr. Sanjeev Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Nagpur giving a call to action to the media underscored the need for amplifying awareness about hypertension as a growing health concern. “In Maharashtra, approximately 66% of all deaths are due to NCDs. In Nagpur, around 3 lakh people are estimated to have raised blood pressure, many of them are unaware that they have raised blood pressure. Those who are aware often do not seek treatment or continue with medication even when the intervention does not cost much. Blood pressure can be easily checked and treated with inexpensive medicines. Therefore, the Government and medical fraternity must work together to ensure the early detection of hypertension so that many lives are saved. We must also screen for blood pressure at the household level in the community, if diagnosed, put them on treatment, monitor that they continue to receive medicines to reduce the disease burden.”

Dr. Abhishek Kunwar, National Professional Officer, Cardiovascular Diseases, WHO Country Office for India, said “Hypertension is the leading cause of death due to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in India. To make hypertension treatment widely available, the Government of India and several state governments initiated the India Hypertension Control Initiative program (IHCI). In Maharashtra, four districts (Bhandara, Wardha, Satara and Sindhurug) are selected for the implementation of IHCI in the first phase. The program is focused on screening of patients for hypertension at all health facilities. Also, the Government of Maharashtra has initiated population-based screening (PBS) at community level for hypertension and diabetes. The biggest priority for us is to ensure that people with raised blood pressure are detected early and receive treatment. Healthcare providers have been trained to screen people and to ensure that they register for treatment. Making blood pressure medicines available is also a big focus area for us since once detected with hypertension people should continue taking medication lifelong to keep their blood pressure under control.”

Speaking on the need to eliminate TFA, a known cause of cardiovascular diseases, Dr. Eram Rao, Associate Professor, Delhi University said “Removal of industrially produced trans fatty acids from the food supply will be a big step in reducing the number of deaths due to arterial clogging and heart attacks. We need to educate the public on trans fats and inform that these fats have no known health benefits. Trans fats can be replaced by healthier fats without changing the taste of the food. Globally, several countries have become trans fats free. Technologies such as full hydrogenation and interesterification can produce fats with zero trans fats.”

Mr. Ashim Sanyal, COO, Consumer Voice said, “The most effective way to eliminate industrially produced trans fat in food is through regulatory action. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has already put in place such a regulation to limit trans fatty acids in all oils and fats to not more than 2% by January 2022. In the coming days we will work closely with both central and state governments besides food industry to accelerate the elimination of industrially produced trans fats from the entire food chain. There is an acute shortage of TFA testing equipments and capacities across states. Some states like Kerala have been leading the way. I also congratulate Maharashtra for initiating testing of some foods. This is a tall task which will require collaboration across sectors, mobilisation of resources and most importantly, awareness generation.”

Emphasising the need to build awareness among consumers, Dr Anjali Borhade, President, Disha Foundation, said: “Awareness plays a key role in controlling the prevalence of Hypertension. As high blood pressure often has no warning signs or symptoms, many people do not realize they have it. Left untreated, hypertension can cause disability or death. We must make people aware of the importance of getting their blood pressure checked at regular intervals. Besides maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet, it is equally important to continue to take medications regularly.”

Other experts like Mr Manoj Tiwari, Senior Food Safety Officer, FDA, Nagpur and Ms. Jayashree Pendharkar, Nutritionist also spoke at the occasion, highlighting the actions which need to be taken in order to improve the health outcomes of the people of Maharashtra.

In May 2018, WHO and Resolve to Save Lives announced the REPLACE initiative to make the world trans fats free by 2023. REPLACE provides a six-step action package including enacting regulations to strictly limit the amount of industrially produced trans fats in foods, fats and oils.

The common PHVOs in India are Vanaspati, margarines and bakery shortenings, ingredients used for making foods at home but more commonly in bakeries, sweetshops, restaurants and street foods. Indians are known to be at a high risk of cardiovascular disease. Initiatives like these sessions are helpful to target the population and create an awareness on the urgency of screening, bringing down the disease burden and thereby reduce the economic burden caused the morbidity and mortality due to non-communicable diseases.

Disha Foundation is Maharashtra based non-profit organization working pan-India with its offices in Nasik and Nagpur, Maharashtra. It works on issues related to migration, education, livelihood and Health for marginalised communities. In Health, Disha Foundation is one of the few organizations leading the efforts on Universal Access to Tuberculosis Care (UATBC) beginning with Maharashtra. Disha is also working on issues of accessibility to health services, piloting innovative models in non-communicable diseases and creating health awareness. Disha Foundation is working on a campaign to promote cardiovascular health including trans fats elimination and hypertension.

Maharashtra Notes A 62% Rise in Deaths Due to Heart Disease

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: So we thought Delhi is only to blame for contributing to the severe air pollution, India is battling with! We need to get our Math right as Nagpur is also one of the major contributors in emission. This was revealed in a research study of emissions and their sources in 20 cities including Nagpur. The researchers found that vehicle exhaust, suspended dust, construction activities, industrial exhaust, domestic cooking and heating are the primary sources of emissions in all cities.

Delhi turned out to be one of the most polluted cities in the world, the Air Quality Index (AQI), a metric to measure how polluted the air is, skyrocketed to 1000 in many areas of the city. These levels were at least thrice the deemed hazardous levels of 300. Air pollution has been linked to a host of issues, ranging from poor crop yield to innumerable health issues such as lung cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, asthma, bronchitis, dementia, and low birth weight, among others.

While this might seem a problem localized to Delhi, the rest of India doesn’t fare well either. Fourteen of the top fifteen polluted cities in the world are in India. So far, the primary focus of studies on air pollution in the country has been on Delhi, and to a lesser extent, on Mumbai and Kolkata. In fact, it is estimated that close to 99.5% of the 640 districts in India exceed the World Health Organization 2016 guidelines for particulate matter emissions of 10 μg/m. Now, a recent study has investigated the emission levels of multiple pollutants in twenty Indian cities, other than Delhi.

The study, undertaken by researchers from the Desert Research Institute, USA and Urban Emissions—a repository of research, information and analysis about of air pollution, has explored the ambient air quality of these cities and built a high-resolution ’emissions inventory’ of multiple pollutants.

The researchers chose 20 Indian cities, from 13 states, including Bengaluru and Chennai—two megacities with a population of over 10 million. The others include Nagpur, Chandigarh, Kanpur, Patna, Pune, Agra, Amritsar, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Coimbatore, Dehradun, Indore, Jaipur, Kochi, Ludhiana, Patna, Raipur, Ranchi and Varanasi. In all, these cities have 90 million inhabitants and cover an airshed of 44,000 sq. km.

The researchers collected four categories of data to build the emissions inventory. The first category involved data gathered from various ministries, professional organisations and policymakers. The second category consisted of dynamic data like vehicular speed maps for weekdays and weekends, power consumption and demand data, satellite feeds of open fires, dust events and weather forecasting models. In the third category, monitoring data from the websites of the Central Pollution Control Board and other organisations were considered. The fourth set of data came from Google, where it mapped commercial establishments like cafes, cinema theatres, hotels, hospitals and malls. Using this data, the researchers built the emissions inventory of various pollutants at a spatial resolution of 1 km x 1 km.

In tier-2 cities like Amritsar, Bhopal, Chandigarh, Coimbatore, Kanpur, Ludhiana, and Pune, small and medium-scale industries were found to be significant sources of emissions. They estimated the levels of hazardous pollutants like volatile compounds, black and organic carbon, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and dioxide and particulate matter.

Air Pollution : Not only Delhi, Nagpur too has high emmisions

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: A Hasanbagh-based school has been found to be breeding ground for Dengue mosquitoes. Days after not one but two students of the school were diagnosed with Dengue, a team of Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) visited the school and reportedly found mosquito larvae thriving in the school premises, sources said.

According to sources, when Siddesh Ladvikar(6) and his younger sister Ovi (4), both residents of Diamond Nagar, near Ramna Maroti Mandir, and students of the school, simultaneously fell prey to the vector born disease few days back, the school administration alerted the NMC’s Malaria and Filaria Department. Following which the officials of NMC conducted an inspection at Ladvikar’s residence but didn’t find any suspicious thing which could have afflicted to the two children. Subsequently, NMC officials visited the Hasanbagh-based J P English School and reportedly found dengue larvae breeding in the school building. It is reported that the under construction building inside the school premises, might have created ideal environment for dengue larvae to thrive.

In the meantime, both Siddesh and Ovi have been rushed to Care Hospital in Dhantoli where they are being monitored in ICU.

Dengue larvae found breeding at Hasanbagh-based school

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

The kidneys filter the blood and remove the waste from the body. Kidneys also manage the fluid balance of the body. It has million tiny filters which continuously work for purification. Poor kidney health can make it difficult for your body to function properly. It can create an imbalance in the composition of body fluids.

Some habits and foods can slow down your kidney function. If left untreated it can even lead to complete loss of kidney function. Chronic kidney disease describes the gradual loss of kidney function. You can make some simple changes which can result in better kidney health. Your diet can influence your kidney health. Choosing the right foods is one way to ensure better kidney health. You just need to add make a few dietary changes to prevent kidney diseases.

Ways to prevent kidney diseases

1. Skip the soda
Sodas or carbonated drinks can harm your health in various ways. Carbonated drinks are loaded with sugar. They may provide you instant energy but can harm your health for the long run. Sodas are bad for your kidneys as well. You can choose healthier alternates like a freshly squeezed lemon in a glass of water. You can also choose coconut water or simply just water. So, next time when you sip soda imagine its effect on your overall health. Shakes and smoothies can also be your choice.

2. Monitor your salt intake
Excess sodium intake is the main cause of kidney problems. A kidney patient is advised to reduce salt intake immediately. If you want your kidneys to function properly for a lifetime you need to consume salt in moderation. Keep the salt shaker off the table. It will ensure a better fluid balance inside your body.

3. Avoid processed foods
Processed foods are not good for your health in any way. If you are skipping your home-cooked foods and depending on processed foods then you are putting your health at multiple health risks. Processed foods are loaded with bad fat and salt as well. Too much consumption of processed foods is bad for your heart health, digestive health and kidney health.

4. Increase your fluid intake
Your fluid intake will also determine your kidney health. Water helps in flushing toxins out of your body. More fluid intake means reduced risk of kidney diseases. From juice to coconut water you can choose any fluid for better functioning of kidneys. You should also keep a water bottle handy all the time. Drink more water and keep the various function of your body intact.

5. Add more fruits and vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are advised to everyone as they are the healthiest foods you can add to your diet. Fruits and vegetables are loaded with nutrients. When it comes to kidney health you can choose something which is naturally low in sodium or has no sodium. Some fruits and vegetables good for kidney health may include cauliflower, blueberries, grapes, garlic, cabbage, bell peppers, onions, radish, cranberries and pineapple.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

These Dietary Changes Can Help You Keep Kidney Diseases At Bay

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: Technical glitch of the Arterial Blood Gases (ABG) machinery, unavailability of reagents and kits to carry out Liver and Kidney tests have left the patients visiting at Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital (IGGMCH) commonly known as Mayo Hospital in utter inconvenience as they are forced to take tests in private healthcare centers at much higher costs.

The mandatory tests, need for referring medicines are not being conducted at Mayo Hospital, as the hospital does not have the reagents, essential for the most of the investigations. Also the ABG machines are dysfunctional owing to technical glitch.

ABG test costs nearly Rs 1000 for a single time. Thus, it leaves no option for the patients but to pay Rs 2,000 each day for this test while, the same test should be done for free at the lab in Mayo.

It may be noted that various kinds of analysis have to be done for any ICU, or patients on ventilator, one such investigation is ABG, the very basic/ test mandatory two times a day. The scenario is same in all the four ICUs. Since couple of months, ABG test is not being done at the lab in Mayo, instead the doctors have to send the sample to outside lab.

According to a source, ABG test is basically a blood test which measures the pH, and the levels of oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) from an artery. This ultimately helps to check the function of the patient’s lungs and how well they are able to move oxygen and remove carbon dioxide. It is performed twice a day. Because ABG is the most precise representation of a patient’s clinical status, it can lead to quicker and more accurate changes in the plan of care. Without knowing Ph of the body, the further treatment will be difficult to guide.

When Nagpur Today took matter to Dr Ajay Keoliya, Dean, IGGMC he said that, “I’ve acknowledged the irregularities reported within the hospital. ABG machine is stationary at Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) 4. First we anticipated that it was technical glitch however, when it came to the fore that a part of the machinery needs to replace, we have placed an order regarding the same. Though we will surely sort out the irregularity soon.”

“As far as Liver/ Kidney function tests are concerned, the kits are not available with us due to which we are unable to report investigations for a few enzymes. We have ordered the new kits which will take another one week to come.”

By Shubham Nagdeve

Mayo Hospital stops test facilities for want of kits, patients at suffering end

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: E-cigarettes, in contravention of its ban are also openly being sold by outlets in Mumbai, Nagpur, Pune etc.

Electronic cigarettes are devices that do not burn or use tobacco leaves as in case of traditional cigarettes but instead vaporise a solution which the user inhales.

Electronic cigarettes are being promoted as a safe alternative to conventional cigarettes in the Western countries by manufacturers and is fast gaining acceptance specially amongst the younger population. In India too the device has found favour and is being lapped up by the youth.

The World Health Organisation has not yet certified e-cigarettes to be a safe alternative to cigarettes as the emissions from electronic cigarettes contain chemicals, some of them considered to be toxicants.

In addition, it is a fact that Nicotine which is the main constituent of e-cigarettes is addict forming and once youngsters get hooked to it, they would never be able to get rid of its usage or even shift to traditional cigarettes.

The Maharashtra Govt. had taken a very proactive stand when it came to its public policy on e-cigarettes. E-cigarettes stand banned in the State as per the Drug & Cosmetics Act/Rules from as far back as January 2014.
Also, the media has reported that Maharashtra Food and Drugs Administration(FDA) has directed its officers to enforce a complete ban on e-cigarettes. Further in August 2018, the Union Health Ministry has also sent an advisory to all States advising complete restriction on trade including online sale in e-cigarettes and similar devices.

However, the best intention of the Maharashtra Govt. in checking the habit of e-cigarette usage specially amongst the younger generation has come to naught.

There are as many as 27 e-commerce sites from which anyone can order for e-cigarettes and its delivery is guaranteed in the State in no time.

The situation is alarming for the State as there is a huge concentration of young tech-savvy population in the State and specially in cities like Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur etc. who at the click of a mouse can get hold of e-cigarettes like JUUL (the brand is widely popular amongst young people in USA).

Therefore, students who throng the State in the institutes of higher learning or young employees in the IT industry in Maharashtra are at great danger of being hooked to e-cigarettes as a lifestyle product.

In addition, anyone can easily purchase e-cigarettes even from any conventional shops in the main cities of the State, as these stores in violation of the Govt. ban, has been peddling the device with impunity.

Unless the authorities take immediate measures to block the e-commerce sites which are helping the young people in the State to get addicted to e-cigarettes, the situation may get completely out of hand and spell doom for the health of the younger generation.

A parallel move worth pursuing would be to warn all courier agencies in the State not to carry any package containing e-cigarettes and heavily penalize those violating the law. For that matter the enforcement authorities would do well to immediately conduct raids in the stores selling e-cigarettes and seize the stocks so that the menace of e-cigarette in Maharashtra is met head on.

Despite ban on sale in Maharashtra, e-cigarettes are freely being delivered by e-commerce sites in the State

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Breathing takes place without us being aware of it. During pregnancy breathing helps us to sail through the 9 months of pregnancy without a lot of fuss. Pregnancy respiratory disorders might provide considerable degree of relief if any flare up occurs.

Just pay attention to your body and you will be taking deep shallow breaths. When you are pregnant you would need deep breaths. But this is an art of breathing that takes a lot of practice.

There are a series of breathing exercises you can try when you are pregnant. But as your tummy grows it becomes difficult to undertake as you are going to realize breathing is not an easy task. One of the exercises that strike you is abdominal breathing. This is the essence of a proper workout session. This forces you to expand your lungs and helps you to rake in more air.  In the midst of this your abdominal muscles are strengthened.

Why breathing exercises are a must during the tenure of pregnancy?

Now medications for respiratory disorders in pregnancy would provide relief, but the fact of the matter is why we need to breathe properly during pregnancy

• Once the baby grows the body needs more amount of oxygen in order to function at an optimum level. The body also would need sufficient amount of oxygen in order to be functioning at an optimum pedigree. Though shallow breathing is not enough in order to provide the body with ample amount of oxygen. With the course of such breathing exercises the body is in a position to avail a proper amount of oxygen which it needs
• Stress along with anxiety is a vital cog in the wheel of an entire pregnancy experience. With the help of breathing exercises you can stay calm and de stress yourself
• Once you deep breathe you provide your body with more amount of oxygen. This is going to provide you with relief from itchy joints or soreness
• One of the things that bring a cause of worry in the minds of pregnant women is the world labor. If you go on to practice breathing exercises on a regular basis this is not going too much of a problem. This would enable you to manage your contractions and help to deal with labor pain in a better way.
• The best part about such exercises is that you will be in the present and are in a better position to deal with labor. This would help you to enjoy the miracle of childbirth

In case if you are learning to pick up breathing exercises during pregnancy you can always join a breathing class. They are going to provide you with the tools you need.  Even opting for a short online course or a flipping through the video is not going to be a bad idea. The key is to breathe right to enjoy your pregnancy. Apart from this you are going to need deep breathing exercises.

The benefits of opting for breathing exercises when you are pregnant?

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: Diabetes has become one of the major causes of concern among the Indians as more people of different ages are rapidly succumbing to this medical condition. However tough the ailment may appear – maintaining doses, adopting specific lifestyle and diet plan, a diabetic can always stay in blooming health.

According to World Health Organization (WHO), India had 69.2 million people living with diabetes in 2015.
Nearly 98 million people in India may have type 2 diabetes by 2030, according to a study published.

Nagpur region too has its enormous share of patients living with various diabetic conditions.

Nagpur Today initiates to crack code for diabetes in an interaction with Dr. Jayant kelwade, from Alexis Hospital Nagpur.

Watch out to know all about diabetes as Dr Jayant Kelwade explains…

Video : Alexis Hospital’s Dr Jayant Kelwade on causes and types of diabetes

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: Guardian Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Tuesday directed GMCH authorities to send a proposal to State Government for installation of one more MRI machine at the hospital. Currently, one MRI machine is functional at Government Medical College and Hospital. But the machine sometimes goes dead for days. This results in inconvenience to patients who are in high numbers. One MRI machine cannot handle the rush of patients. Taking note of this fact, the MRI Department has demanded one more MRI machine. The new MRI machine will cost Rs 15 crore. Moreover, Bawankule directed the heads of all departments to send proposals on various equipments needed for their departments. All these proposals are to be sent through Dean of GMCH.

Bawankule was attending a review meeting held on Tuesday at the chamber of GMCH Dean. MLA Pankaj Bhoyar and others were also present in the meeting. The minister further said that currently health camps are being organised in district. Those poor patients who need surgery should be referred to GMCH. The necessary surgeries will be conducted between August 15 and September 15, informed the Dean Mishra. The surgeries should be conducted free of cost for those patients covered under BPL scheme.

The meeting was informed that Rs 25 crore are needed for purchasing equipments for paediatric surgeries. Further, GMCH handles over 15,000 deliveries every year. But wards being small, many patients are not admitted. Hence a demand was made to construct a bigger ward. Bawankule also instructed the authorities to send a Rs 60 lakh proposal for purchasing machines and other medical material for treatment of sickle cell and thalassemia patients.

Vital machineries stuck at Haffkine Institute:

All medical colleges and hospitals have to purchase machineries and materials through Haffkine Institute. The State Government has paid Rs 2.50 crore to the Institute two and half years ago for machineries and materials needed by Nagpur GMCH. But still, the machineries have not been delivered to the GMCH.

Taking cognisance of power bill amounting to Rs 2.50 crore the GMCH pays every year, Bawankule asked the authorities to install solar power as a remedial measure.

Bawankule asks GMCH to send proposal for one more MRI machine

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

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Nagpur: Following an overnight settlement, the details of which were not immediately known, the members of Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) undergoing strike at medical college here, have called off their agitation and resumed work from Thursday morning.

At around 8 am, many resident doctors reported to their duties, sources informed.

The doctors launched the strike in order press their various demands.

More details awaited.

Resident doctors call off strike, get back to work

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: One 28-year-old male from Hingna was recently brought to Nagpur based Orange City Hospital and Research Institute (OCHRI)- a unit of Ravi Nair Hospitals Private Limited (RNHPL) from N K P Salve Institute of Medical Sciences – Hingna in emergency with alleged history of snake bite on wrist who got a new lease of life by the doctors. At the time of admission, the person developed change of voice and difficulty in swallowing in casualty.

Suspecting poisonous snake bite, he was immediately shifted to CCU. By the time he reached CCU, he was completely paralysed with no movements in hands and legs with respiratory paralysis. He was immediately resuscitated and incubated by Dr Himanshu Dodeja- Intensivist, Dr Deepak Kore and Dr Deepak Narwade – CMOs and put on ventilator support by critical care team. Therapeutic dose of anti-snake venom (ASV) was immediately started with other supportive treatment as per protocol. The patient is himself a Sarpmitra. He was admitted under Dr Rajesh Atal – Senior Critical Care Physician.

Dr Rajesh Atal informed that, this patient of snake bite is under treatment and now he has recovered with no neurological deficit and no sequelae (side effects) of Neuroleptic (King Cobra) snake bite. Dr Sweety Pasari, Dr Akshay Burlawar, Dr Himanshu Dodeja, Dr Roshan Jawlekar, Dr Santosh Gadge and Dr Sachin Gondane, Intensivists along with Sr. Preety Joseph – Ward Section Supervisor and team supported Dr Rajesh Atal during the comprehensive treatment. Complimenting Dr Rajesh Atal and team; Dr Anup Marar- OCHRI Director stated that OCHRI is among the few critical care centres which has anti-snake venom (ASV) treatment is available 24×7 along with hospital stationed round the clock with trained group of critical care specialists for rendering timely treatment.

In Nagpur Sarpamitra with Cobra bite saved at Orange City Hospital

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Watch: Dr. Shoeb Nadeem speaking about alarming rise in heart-related diseases

Dr. Shoeb Nadeem, a consultant cardiologist, Alexis Hospital speaking about the alarming rise in heart-related diseases. Nadeem also discussed heart attack, the common problem faced by patients along with tips to distinguish it. He also asserted the precautionary measures to curb any heart-related diseases.

How to distinguish between regular chest pain and cardiac pain.. Listen to the Specialist

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: For many of us, diabetes may sound scary and too hard to handle, however, the blend of correction knowledge clubbed with a desired lifestyle change may do wonders in managing this condition of body.
Noted diabetologist Dr. Sunil Gupta throws some light on diabetes in a video interview with Nagpur Today. Dr Gupta spoke at length about the myths and the facts surrounding diabetes. He also detailed on the types of diabetes and precautionary measures needed to keep diabetes at bay.

Take a look

Video : Dr Sunil Gupta decodes myths about diabetes!

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Every patient should be trained in essential skills and guided asthma self-management

Nagpur: A correct knowledge on therapy/ devise use-ability can lead to increased patient satisfaction, better health outcomes, and reduced use of health care resources. In asthma, it becomes critical as a lot depends on the inhaled medicines – which are integral to the management of respiratory diseases. They deliver drugs directly to the lungs and hence act faster and at a lower dose, thereby reducing the risk of side effects. Inhaled medications have been shown to improve disease status, control symptoms, reduce the number and severity of exacerbations and improve quality of life. Hence, if not used correctly, it can hamper the condition.

In Maharashtra, chronic respiratory disease is the number one leading cause of death in the 40-69-year age group and the second leading cause of death in the 15-39 years age group. Further, COPD has moved from the ninth leading cause of death and disability in 1990 to number second leading cause in 2016. This shows the burden of respiratory disease and the burning need to control it.6 While the PERCEPT study, which assessed the physicians’ knowledge and practice of inhalation therapy in India, showed that incorrect device technique and non-adherence to inhalation therapy were responsible for poor outcomes to therapy by nearly 61% and 67% of physicians, respectively.1Education and awareness on asthma management is the need of the hour, patients need to be viewed as involved participants in their asthma management plan. This will not only ensure better healthcare outcomes but will also instill confidence in patients about managing their asthma. The various inhaler devices available include the pressurized metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), dry powder inhalers (DPIs) and nebulizers.

Approximately 90% of physicians in India reported prescribing inhaler devices to at least 40% of their asthma and COPD patients in the first clinic visit.1 Manypatients findpMDIsdifficultto use correctly. Poor hand-breath co-ordination is one of the most commonly reported errors with pMDIs. DPIs are breath-actuated and hence overcome the problem of hand-breath coordination. However, a significant proportion of patients fail to use their DPI correctly as well. One of the common errors made by patients with a DPI is the failure to inhale forcefully and deeply through the device, leading to insufficient drug delivery.

According to, Dr. Vikrant Deshmukh, Pulmonologist, Nagpur Chest Centre, “A partnership between the patient and their health care provider is important for effective asthma management. Simultaneously, patient-level treatment decisions should take in to account individual characteristics, risk factors and co-morbidities. A strategy of assessment, adjustment of treatment and review of the response to the treatment needs to be considered. Every treatment plan needs to be planned to keep in mind the patient’s lifestyle conditions and treatment goals.

Although contemporary inhaled therapy for asthma has the potential to control disease, control is often not achieved in real-life practice in most patients. As per the Asia-Pacific Asthma Insights Management (AP-AIM) Survey, all asthma patients in India are either uncontrolled or partly controlled.2 Poor inhaler technique is a key reason for this poor control.”

The scores of doctors were significantly better as compared to nurses and patients, it was still quite inadequate compared to the total score (mean score for doctors – 6.35/10). The nurses, in fact, had almost as poor technique as the patients themselves (4.70 vs. 4.65). Thus, in a situation where nurses have an important responsibility towards patient education, it will not be surprising that the patients will have poor inhaler techniques. There have been few studies describing the inhaler technique among doctors and nurses (Mullerpattan, et al.: Inhaler technique in patients and HCW’s)9

According to Dr. Vinit Niranjane, Pulmonologist, Breathe Easy Chest Care Center,Ramdaspeth“The key challenges in the management of asthma and COPD include improving compliance and developing effective and easy-to-use inhalers. Many patients frequently underutilise their medications or use their inhalers incorrectly, which can be detrimental to maintaining disease control. This can cause them to switch to oral therapy, which can be disastrous.Though there have been developments in inhaled delivery platforms over the years, incorrect inhaler technique has remained unacceptably high, resulting in poor patient outcomes.”

Most patients (up to 80%) cannot use their inhaler correctly. This contributes to poor symptom control and exacerbation9. To ensure effective inhaler use:

•Choose the most appropriate device for the patient before prescribing: consider medication, physical problems e.g. arthritis, patient skills and cost; for ICS by pressurized metered dose inhaler, prescribe a spacer.
•Check inhaler technique at every opportunity. Ask the patient to show you how they use the inhaler. Check their technique against a device-specific checklist.
•Correct using a physical demonstration, paying attention to incorrect steps. Check technique again, up to 2-3 times if necessary.

Complexity of device and the difficulty in using it were considered the major factors by physicians for reduced adherence and satisfaction with treatment.

The development of breath-actuated inhalers represents a significant transformation in inhaled drug delivery. Educating patients on the benefits of inhalation therapy and the correct inhaler technique can help increase the acceptance, adherence and correct usage of inhalers, which can result in better disease control.

References
1. PERCEPT study, Presented at APSR Conference, 2015
2. Respirology 2013; 18(6): 957-67
3. Eur Respir J 2002; 19, 246–251
4. Chronic Respiratory Disease 2017, Vol. 14(3) 309–320
5. Respir Med. 2008; 102, 4, 593–604
6. India: Health of the Nation’s States – The India State-level Disease Burden Initiative 2017
7. INSPECT survey. Presented at IPCRG Scientific Meeting, Singapore, May 30, 2015
8. SCRIP News February 20, 2018
9. GINA

A correct use of device can go a long way in asthma management

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: Dr. Sushrut Rajan, Orthopedist, and renowned Joint Replacement Surgeon discussing various factors which could affect your knees with age being the significant factor. He discussed how one can avoid knee-related problems by underwater exercises and cycling at the same time by giving up some forms of Yoga which would force strain on your knees.

Dr. Rajan asserting about the myths and facts of the knee replacement, that can you replace both knees at the same time? Role of physiotherapy after surgery? Significance of modern tech in operating

Underwater exercises, cycling are major aspects to curb knee problems: Dr. Rajan

Nagpur Today : Nagpur News

Nagpur: The incurable Duchene Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a rare genetic disease, is heavy toll of children in India. As there is no cure or treatment available so far in India for DMD, children (boys) suffering from the disease don’t live beyond 18-20 years due to gradual degeneration and weakness in limb muscles finally affecting heart and lungs resulting in death. But there is now a ray of hope to fight the disease. Scientists in three different institutes in Kolkata and Bengaluru are nearing completion of basic work required for development of a medicine for the disease.

In India, 54 babies, affected by DMD, born every day. One in every 3500 people is affected by DMD as per WHO report. India could have 8-10 lakh patients of various types of muscular dystrophy.

Prof Surajit Sinha from the Indian Association for Cultivation of Science (IACS), Dr Apurba Ghosh, Institute of Child Health (ICH) from Kolkata and Arun Shastry from Dystrophy Annihilation Research Trust (DART) in Bengaluru are in different stages of the process for development of three different types of drugs for DMD.

In fact, DART with support from Prof Sinha has already conducted a successful trial of a RNA based molecule (antisense oligo-nucleotideor AON ) on a single patient with permission from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) at Bengaluru and has already applied for clinical trials for the same to the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI). But it will be another 10-12 years before these drugs are commercially available in the market. Yet, the parents of almost every child want their children to be a part of the future clinical trials in India on medicines that the three scientists are working on with the hope that the medicines could help treat the disease for at least those who are small as well those who may be born with this disease in future

Though in USA a drug — ‘Exondy51’ — was released in September 2016, but it is way beyond the reach of Indian patients as the drug costs Rs 2-3 crore annually with one injection per week for 52 weeks.

In absence of any cure or treatment, the parents of over 10 lakh children pan India suffering from different forms of muscular dystrophy (DMD being one of them) are living a life of abject despair and staring at death. Hence various parents groups and individual parents are demanding a policy on the disease and its inclusion in the ‘Ayushman Bharat’.

Parents across the country want government to prepare a patients directory to realize the high incidence of the disease as 20% of the total muscular dystrophy patients are in India. Another demand is that of including rare diseases like this into insurance schemes. Parents also want physiotherapy and other such required supports in the form of medicinal supplements free of cost for patients whose parents cannot afford expensive steroids that are used at present for management of the disease in addition to reduction in cost of assistive devices such as wheelchairs, transfer boards, hoists, calipers, AFOs, leg/knee braces, etc.

Parents expect government to work towards an effective cure for all forms of MD including BMD, DMD, FSHD, all types of LGMDs, etc. They are demanding DMD care hubs with medical and healthcare professionals, patient advocacy groups, pharmaceutical companies and other key stakeholders besides creating awareness on MD and evolve care protocols with emphasis on availability of relevant literature and videos in local languages.

Since the disease is genetic and is caused due to different kinds of effects like mutations and deletions on any exon from 1 to 79 on the dystrophin forming gene, the largest gene of human body, on ‘X’ chromosome, a single medicine cannot be used to treat all the defects. Medicines have to be tailor made for each kind of muscular dystrophy and hence the huge cost involved in drug development.

The three researches –

1. Indian Association for Cultivation of Science (IACS), a deemed to be university, Kolkata– Prof Surajit Sinha, School of applied and Interdisciplinary Sciences has developed the basic ingredient, the ‘Morphilonos’ molecules required for manufacturing the DNA based drug for treatment of muscular dystrophy. The DNA based drug is better and more effective than a RNA based drug.

Sinha already has a US patent (Morphilino based anti-sense agents) with number US 9,914,745B2. He has also worked with Arun Shastry, scientific head of DART for the RNA based drug already tried on a patient. Almost 90-95% of parents of MD children are aware of his work and want their children to be part of clinical trials of his medicine. They and want government to further fund the making of the medicine being developed by him. He tells that he has not borrowed or copied the Morphilonos making technology but is result of 13 years of research. “Initially my target was not DMD. I was working on development of medicine for genetic diseases in general including cancer,” he said.

Prof Sinha has written to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi informing him that his medicine will be similar to Exondys-51 but is generic version of it. He has appealed for initial financial support of Rs 5-6 crore required for pre-clinical study with a hospital and Pharma company having Good Laboratory Practices. This will be followed by large scale trials and treatment. Government has asked him to submit his proposal.

2.Second research by DART – Dystrophy Annihilation Research Trust Bengaluru
Chief Scientific DART ArunShastryhas already come up with a RNA based Antisense Oligo-Nucleotide (AON) about six months back which has been tried on a patient KaranveerAnandwith positive results in last six months. Shastry said that this research was funded by Ravdeep Singh Anand, patient’s father as well as 20 other families of patients suffering from some form of MD, ‘I have not created a new molecule. But I took training in Australia at Murdoch University with guidance from Steve Wilton, who is pioneer in making ‘exon skipping’ technique. Shastry also admitted that he was working with Prof Sinha at Kolkata for the DNA based rug as it is more effective.

3.The third research Personalized Medicine Institute Kolkata:

Saubhik Sengupta, PMIS laboratory director claimed that in Kolkata, his lab was starting the first clinical trial on DMD in India. The Antisense Oligonucleotides (AONs) will be designed after careful analysis of every individual DMD gene, and designing unique AONs for every child. The study aims to bring down the cost to around 4 lakhs yearly.

Dr. Apurbo Ghosh (Principal Investigator) of the project will run the trial in Institute of Child Health, Kolkata with Dr. Manjari Mitra. DrSEngupta will be the co-principal investigator and is responsible for genetic analysis and design of the AON for every individual.

The study is funded by Muscular Dystrophy Group, an NGO made up of parents whose children suffer from DMD.

Sengupta claimed AON therapy is being tried in India for the first time and will have immense ramifications in treating untreatable diseases like limb girdle muscular dystrophy, spino muscular atrophy, spino cerebellar ataxia, huntingtons chorea, several cancers etc.

Types of DMD

There are total 9 types of Muscualr Dystrophy

1 Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

2. Becker Muscular dystrophy

3. Myotonic Muscular Dystrophy

4. Limb-girdle Muscular dystrophy

5. Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy

6. Congenital Muscular Dystrophy

7. Oculopharyngeal Muscular Dystrophy

8. Distal Muscular Dystrophy.

9. Spinal Muscular Dystrophy

Incurable DMD disease takes heavy toll of children in India