New Delhi: A recent study in Singapore has brought to light the heightened risk of long-term health complications among individuals who have recovered from dengue fever. The research indicates that dengue survivors face a 55% greater likelihood of developing heart-related issues, such as irregular heartbeats and blood clots, within a year of their initial infection, compared to those who have recovered from COVID-19.

Dengue, transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito, is already known for its severe impact during the acute phase, but this study highlights the potentially more serious long-term effects. The comparison with COVID-19, a disease that has received extensive global attention, is particularly striking. While COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has its own set of long-term effects, the findings suggest that dengue may pose an even greater threat to cardiovascular health over time.

The study emphasizes the need for continued medical care and monitoring for dengue survivors. As the research shows, heart complications related to dengue do not necessarily resolve with the initial illness but can persist or even worsen in the months following recovery. This underlines the importance of post-recovery follow-up and the implementation of preventive measures to address potential complications.

In regions where dengue is endemic, this study serves as a crucial reminder for healthcare providers and policymakers to prioritize long-term care strategies for those affected by dengue. As the global health community continues to combat both dengue and COVID-19, these findings underscore the necessity of a comprehensive approach to managing the long-term health outcomes of viral infections.

New Delhi: A recent study has revealed a critical two-way relationship between diabetes complications, such as heart attack and stroke, and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. This connection suggests that individuals with diabetes-related complications are at a higher risk of developing mental health disorders, and vice versa—those with mental health issues are more likely to encounter severe diabetes complications.

The research indicates that the relationship between these physical and mental health conditions may be influenced by both direct and indirect factors. Common risk factors, including obesity, poor diet, lack of physical activity, and challenges in controlling blood sugar levels, are believed to play a significant role in the development of both diabetes complications and mental health disorders.

Maya Watanabe, a biostatistician at Harvard University’s School of Public Health and the lead author of the study, emphasized that these shared risk factors contribute to the observed link. “Most likely, a combination of direct and indirect effects and shared risk factors drive the association we are seeing,” Watanabe noted. The study, published in the journal Diabetes Care, sheds light on the intricate and interconnected nature of physical and mental health.

The findings underscore the need for healthcare providers to adopt a more holistic approach to treating patients with diabetes. By addressing both the physical and mental health aspects of the disease, healthcare professionals can better support patients in managing their condition and reducing the risk of complications. This comprehensive care model could lead to improved outcomes and a higher quality of life for individuals living with diabetes.

As research continues to explore the links between chronic illnesses and mental health, the importance of integrated care strategies becomes increasingly evident. This study highlights the necessity of recognizing and treating the whole person, considering both their physical and mental health needs.

SOURCE: PTI

New Delhi: Asian nations are heightening their vigilance in response to the spread of a new, more dangerous strain of monkeypox (Mpox) after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global health emergency. The strain, labeled 1B, has caused over 500 deaths, primarily among children in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and its recent detection in Sweden has sparked concerns across Asia.

Governments in the region, from China to Pakistan, are taking proactive steps to prevent the virus from spreading within their borders. Travelers arriving from affected areas are being asked to self-report any symptoms of Mpox, while hospitals are on high alert to identify and manage cases promptly. Unlike the Mpox virus that gained global attention in 2022, the 1B strain is more lethal, with a fatality rate exceeding 3%. The virus can also be transmitted several days before symptoms become apparent, making it more challenging to control through conventional isolation and contact tracing methods.

China has implemented stringent measures at entry points, requiring travelers from affected regions to disclose any contact with Mpox patients or symptoms of the virus. These individuals may undergo testing upon arrival. In India, authorities have increased surveillance at airports and seaports, designating specific hospitals and labs to handle suspected Mpox cases. Other nations, such as Indonesia and Malaysia, have also introduced similar precautions to safeguard their populations.

These concerted efforts across Asia demonstrate the region’s commitment to preventing the spread of the dangerous Mpox strain and protecting public health.

New Delhi: In a significant step towards combating dengue fever, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and Panacea Biotec announced the initiation of the first-ever Phase 3 clinical trial for an indigenous dengue vaccine, DengiAll. This marks a critical advancement in India’s efforts to develop an effective vaccine against the dengue virus, which poses a major public health challenge across the country.

DengiAll, developed by Panacea Biotec, is a tetravalent vaccine designed to target all four serotypes of the dengue virus. India, which reported over 289,000 dengue cases and 485 deaths in 2023, currently lacks an approved vaccine for the disease. The Phase 3 trial, launched at Pandit Bhagwat Dayal Sharma Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences in Rohtak, aims to evaluate the efficacy of this homegrown vaccine.

The trial will be conducted across 19 sites in 18 states and Union Territories, involving over 10,335 healthy adult participants. It is a landmark initiative, particularly given the global context of dengue’s rising incidence, with the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting a historic high of approximately 6.5 million cases and nearly 7,300 deaths in 2023.

The Health Minister, JP Nadda, highlighted the importance of this trial, noting it as a testament to India’s capabilities in vaccine research and development. He emphasized the trial’s significance not only in protecting the health of Indian citizens but also in reinforcing the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat in the healthcare sector.

Panacea Biotec’s efforts represent the most advanced stage of development among Indian companies working on the tetravalent dengue vaccine strain, originally developed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the United States. Following promising results from Phase 1 and 2 trials completed in 2018-19, the Phase 3 trial will further test the vaccine’s efficacy and safety over a two-year follow-up period.

With dengue’s severe impact on both children and adults, this trial is a critical step toward reducing the disease’s burden in India. If successful, DengiAll could become the first licensed dengue vaccine in the country, offering a powerful tool to combat one of the most pressing viral threats in the region.

Gurugram: American Oncology Institute (AOI) at Aarvy Healthcare Super Specialty Hospital is one of the best cancer hospitals in Gurugram, North India. It offers world-class cancer care treatments and diagnostics in Gurugram and the neighboring states. American Oncology Institute (AOI) brings with it the network of super-specialty cancer hospitals in India and South Asia.

American Oncology Institute (AOI) in Gurugram has successfully treated a rare and complex case of double malignancy in a 73-year-old woman from southern India. The patient presented with postmenopausal bleeding for about one month, and examinations revealed a 3 cm endocervical growth extending into the upper vagina, alongside a lump in the right breast.

Upon further evaluation, the breast lump was identified as a 3.0 x 3.1 x 2.4 cm invasive ductal carcinoma. The cervical mass was diagnosed as squamous cell carcinoma. Additionally, FDG scans also showed active lymph nodes in the right armpit and left area near the rectum.

Dr (Brig) Anil Kumar Dhar, HOD, Medical Oncologist, AOI Gurugram, commented on the case, “This case was particularly challenging due to the rarity and complexity of treating two malignancies concurrently. Our team at AOI Gurugram meticulously planned and executed a multi-modality treatment approach, resulting in a successful outcome. This case not only underscores our commitment to providing personalized and effective cancer care but also sets a precedent for treating similar cases in the future.”

Harish Trivedi, CEO of CTSI – South Asia, remarked, “This case exemplifies AOI Gurugram’s dedication to managing the most challenging cancer cases through a multidisciplinary approach. The patient’s remarkable recovery highlights our capability to provide world-class healthcare and reinforces our commitment to delivering exceptional cancer care across South Asia.”

Dr Amit Dhawan, RCOO, AOI Gurugram, added, “The successful management of this rare double malignancy case highlights the expertise and dedication of our team at AOI Gurugram. We are proud of the comprehensive care provided, which ensured a positive outcome for the patient. This case exemplifies the high standard of cancer treatment we strive to deliver.”

The treatment approach for this challenging case involved a multi-modality strategy, including concurrent chemotherapy and radiotherapy for the cervical cancer, followed by surgery for the breast cancer, and subsequent adjuvant chemotherapy and hormonal therapy. This comprehensive treatment plan led to a complete response, and the patient is currently in remission.

Ahmedabad: Critical limb ischemia (Reduced blood flow or oxygen supply) or CLI is a condition in which there is a severe blockage in the blood vessels that markedly reduces blood-flow of the extremities such as hands, feet and legs. It is a severe stage of peripheral arterial disease, or PAD which is basically caused by the hardening and narrowing of the blood vessels due to the build-up of fatty deposits or plaque.

The risk factors for PAD and CLI include older age, smoking, high cholesterol levels, chronic kidney disease, hypertension, and diabetes. In fact, smoking greatly increases the risk of CLI due to chronic inflammation or swelling in the blood vessels of the legs. In addition to ulcers, patients with CLI have a very high-risk of heart disease, amputation and death. Basically, amputation is the removal of a limb by surgery.If the skin of the foot cannot heal, then infection or gangrene can develop and eventually lead to amputation.

On the other hand, heart disease and stroke are one of the leading causes of death among patients with CLI. For this reason, medical treatment or prevention of risk factors is paramount. One can prevent these complications by quitting smoking. Research has shown that quitting smoking, even after the development of CLI, lowers the chances of leg amputation.³ Additionally, all patients with CLI should be treated with statin medications to reduce the risk of heart attack and amputation. On the other hand, medical control of blood sugar levels may help decrease the risk of amputation and improve wound healing.

Dr. Vijay Thakore – Senior Vascular Surgeon, Aadicura Superspeciality Hospital, Vadodara commented on the treatment of CLI saying  “Treatment for CLI can be quite complex and individualised. However, the number one priority is to preserve the limb. Several medications may be prescribed to prevent further progression of the disease and most certainly to reduce the pain. Medications that prevent clotting or fight infections may also be prescribed. The primary treatment for CLI is to restore blood flow to the affected leg and provide enough blood flow to heal any leg and foot wounds. This can be done by surgical bypass or angioplasty. A number of regenerative therapies, including stem cell therapy have been tested in patients with PAD and CLI.”

Dr. Sumit Kapadia, Vascular Surgeon, Aadicura Superspeciality Hospital, Vadodara, explained Cell-based therapies saying, “Cell-based therapies have emerged as a new frontier in this direction, and are now being considered as a potential newer therapeutic alternative for CLI. Stem cells have a great deal of potential for differentiation and evolution into various cell types. The surrounding cellular environment gradually stimulates the stem cells, resulting in the creation of specialised cells that are identical to those with which they come into contact and grow. The effects of this, notably neoangiogenesis, ability to develop into new small blood vessels. As a result, restoring blood circulation and responsible for these reparative activities”.

Dr. Hiten Patel, Vascular & Endovascular Surgeon, Aadicura Superspeciality Hospital, Vadodara commented on the symptoms of CLI saying, “The decrease in blood flow to the legs and feet can cause a number of symptoms of CLI such as pain in the foot or leg even with or without walking. This pain is worse at night due to decreased blood flow when lying down. This pain can be so severe that it can lead to sleep disturbances. One can also experience ulcer or sore on the foot and gangrene. Sometimes, patients present with diminished pulse in the legs and inability to heal a superficial or deep injury to the foot”.

Dr. Kushan Nanavati Vascular & Endovascular Surgeon, Aadicura Superspeciality Hospital, Vadodara said, “According to the latest clinical evidence, autologous cell treatment has the potential to favourably alter the natural history of intractable CLI with a superior composite clinical result. It revealed a decrease in amputation risk, an increase in amputation-free survival, enhanced wound healing, and a decrease in rest pain without altering mortality.”

The preferred site for stem cell injection in the treatment of Critical Limb Ischemia (CLI) is intramuscular, targeting the muscle bulk of the affected limb. The effectiveness of this therapy is evidenced by a reduction in CLI symptoms, including decreased limb pain, improved walking distance, and an enhanced quality of life. Patients typically require hospitalization for a minimum of 24 hours, with some cases extending to 48 to 72 hours, depending on individual needs. The procedure has a minimal risk of side effects, with the most common complaint being mild fever lasting one to two days.

New Delhi: Doctors at AIIMS-Delhi have raised an alert over the rising cases of Hepatitis A in the national capital, emphasizing the crucial role of safe food and water consumption. Dr. Shalimar, a professor at the Department of Gastroenterology, noted an uptick in cases among children and young adults aged 18-25, highlighting the need for increased vigilance.

Hepatitis A and E are primarily transmitted through water contaminated with fecal matter. According to Dr. Pramod Garg, head of the Gastroenterology Department, these infections are usually self-limiting and do not require specific antiviral treatment, as they are managed symptomatically. He stressed the importance of preventive measures, including ensuring access to safe drinking water, practicing proper food handling, and maintaining good hygiene.

A study conducted by AIIMS’ Gastroenterology Department revealed that Hepatitis A and E account for 30% of acute liver failure cases, which carry a mortality rate exceeding 50%. This contrasts with Hepatitis B and C, which are major causes of chronic liver disease, including liver cirrhosis and cancer. Dr. Deepak Gunjan, an additional professor, explained that Hepatitis B and C are often transmitted through exposure to infected blood, unscreened blood transfusions, unsafe sexual practices, and intravenous drug use. While Hepatitis B often requires long-term management, Hepatitis C can be cured in over 95% of cases with a three-month course of antiviral drugs.

The panel also addressed broader issues affecting liver health, such as an unhealthy lifestyle, excessive alcohol consumption, the use of certain drugs, and autoimmune diseases. Dr. Samagra Agarwal emphasized the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle, which includes avoiding alcohol, following a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and steering clear of potentially liver-toxic medications without medical guidance.

In line with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) goals, India’s National Viral Hepatitis Control Program aims to reduce new chronic hepatitis infections by 90% and related deaths by 65% by 2030. The program provides free vaccinations for Hepatitis B to all newborns and free treatment for both Hepatitis B and C. Dr. Garg highlighted that India bears a significant burden of viral hepatitis, accounting for approximately 12% of global cases, with an estimated 40 million people chronically infected with Hepatitis B and 6 to 12 million with Hepatitis C. He urged high-risk groups, including those who have received blood transfusions, healthcare workers, pregnant women, intravenous drug users, and family members of Hepatitis B patients, to undergo screening at government healthcare facilities.

New Delhi: Vitamin C, also known as L-ascorbic acid, is a crucial nutrient that supports overall health and wellness. As a powerful antioxidant, vitamin C is essential for various bodily functions and plays a significant role in maintaining the structure and function of bones, cartilage, skin, and blood vessels. It is also vital for the immune system, helping to protect the body from illnesses and infections.

Why Vitamin C is important

Vitamin C is indispensable for the synthesis of collagen, a protein that forms the structural framework of skin, muscles, and other tissues. Adequate levels of vitamin C are necessary for proper wound healing; a deficiency can lead to slower recovery times due to impaired collagen production. Beyond its role in collagen synthesis, vitamin C contributes to cardiovascular health by enhancing blood vessel function, improving nitric oxide production, and reducing plaque instability associated with atherosclerosis. These benefits collectively support heart health and help in protecting against heart disease and hypertension.

Impact on Eye Health and Chronic Diseases

Research suggests that vitamin C may play a role in reducing the risk of cataracts and slowing the progression of age-related macular degeneration, though more studies are needed to confirm these effects. Oxidative stress is a known factor in these conditions, and vitamin C’s antioxidant properties may help mitigate this stress, thereby supporting eye health.

Benefits for Diabetes and Anemia

Emerging evidence indicates that vitamin C could be beneficial for managing diabetes. A study found that participants who consumed vitamin C supplements for four months experienced improvements in glucose levels and blood pressure compared to those who received a placebo. Additionally, vitamin C enhances the absorption of iron, which is beneficial for individuals suffering from iron deficiency anemia. While some recommend combining vitamin C supplements with iron tablets to improve absorption, recent research suggests this might not always be necessary.

Protection Against Pollution and Allergies

Vitamin C also offers protective benefits against pollution and allergies. Air pollution, which consists of various harmful substances, can negatively impact health. Studies suggest that a combination of vitamin C and vitamin E may help reduce symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). During allergic reactions, the immune system produces reactive oxygen species (ROS) leading to oxidative stress, and vitamin C’s antioxidant properties may help alleviate these symptoms.

Best Sources of Vitamin C

To reap the benefits of vitamin C, it’s best to incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet. Cooking and heat can destroy some of the vitamin C content in foods, so consuming them raw is preferable. Excellent sources of vitamin C include:

• Red and green peppers
• Oranges and orange juice
• Grapefruit
• Kiwifruit
• Strawberries
• Spinach and other leafy greens
• Tomatoes
• Potatoes
• Green peas

Vitamin C is fundamental for maintaining good health, supporting the immune system, promoting cardiovascular health, and aiding in wound healing. While a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is the best way to ensure adequate vitamin C intake, supplements are available for those who may need them. Including a variety of vitamin C-rich foods in your diet can help maximize the health benefits of this essential nutrient.