Health officials told to step up measures to counter seasonal diseases
State Commissioner of Family Welfare G. Veerapandian directed the Medical and Health officials across Chittoor district to step up preparedness measures against seasonal diseases given the ongoing monsoon, on Saturday. The virtual session included District Medical and Health Officer (DMHO) D.T. Sudharani and district-level programme officers.
The Commissioner informed the officials to adopt and enforce focused strategies to fight malaria, dengue, chikungunya, and diarrhoeal infections. He directed them to launch a series of public awareness campaigns across the district, particularly in the rural areas.
Mr. Veerapandian directed the compulsory entry of Electronic Health Records (EHR) for all out-patient cases to streamline treatment at the PHCs and district hospital. He asked the doctors to follow up regularly under the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) survey and enhance data entry in low-performing areas.
The Commissioner insisted that all deliveries, both at the government and private hospitals, must be recorded in the Health Management Information System (HMIS). Institutional deliveries should be taken up extensively to curb maternal and infant mortality. He said that high-risk pregnancies should be referred to district hospitals. The official suggested that the Medical and Paramedical fraternity should do their best to reduce C-section births. He further focussed on the launching of campaigns to prevent teenage pregnancies.
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Time of India
4 hours ago
- Time of India
Is your lifestyle harming your liver? Expert explains the alarming rise in liver disease deaths
In recent years, a silent epidemic has been sweeping across India, claiming lives and putting an immense strain on our healthcare system. The culprit? Liver disease. What was once primarily associated with heavy alcohol consumption is now affecting a growing number of individuals, including young adults and non-drinkers, highlighting a disturbing shift in the risk factors. The alarming rise in liver disease deaths is a stark wake-up call, with experts pointing to one major factor: our modern lifestyle. According to recent data, India records a staggering 2,68,580 liver disease deaths annually, accounting for over 18% of global liver-related fatalities. This makes India the highest contributor to liver disease deaths worldwide. This isn't just about cirrhosis from alcohol anymore; a significant driver of this trend is Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), a condition where excess fat accumulates in the liver. It's now being reclassified as Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), underscoring its deep connection to metabolic disorders. So, what has changed? Dr. Aditya Verma, a consultant gastroenterologist, notes, "India is facing a silent epidemic of liver disease, and much of it is driven by what we eat. Everyday food choices can either fuel liver damage or support healing." Our fast-paced, urban lifestyle has led to a dramatic change in our dietary habits and activity levels. The traditional Indian diet, rich in fiber and whole grains, has given way to a Westernized menu dominated by processed foods, refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and high-calorie junk food. This dietary shift, combined with increasingly sedentary work patterns and a lack of physical activity, is a recipe for disaster for our liver. The culprits hiding in plain sight: * Junk food and sugary drinks: Consuming excessive amounts of processed foods, fried snacks, pastries, and soft drinks floods the liver with sugar and unhealthy fats. This excess is converted into fat and stored in the liver, leading to fatty liver disease. * Sedentary lifestyle: Prolonged sitting, whether for work or leisure, coupled with a lack of exercise, reduces the body's ability to burn fat. This contributes to obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol, all of which are major risk factors for liver damage. * Stress and sleep deprivation: Chronic stress and irregular sleep patterns are often overlooked contributors. They disrupt metabolic function and can lead to unhealthy eating habits, further impacting liver health. * Uncontrolled metabolic conditions: Ignoring conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol accelerates liver damage. These diseases are deeply intertwined with liver health, and poor management of one can worsen the other. * Unnecessary medication and supplements: While the liver is a master detoxifier, it can be overburdened by the misuse of over-the-counter painkillers, herbal remedies, and dietary supplements. Always consult a doctor before taking any new medication or supplement. The silent progression: One of the most dangerous aspects of liver disease is its silent progression. In its early stages, fatty liver often presents with no symptoms. Patients may not realize their liver is in distress until the damage is severe and irreversible, progressing to inflammation, scarring (fibrosis), cirrhosis, and even liver cancer. However, experts urge people to watch out for subtle red flags, such as persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, swelling in the legs or abdomen, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). If you experience any of these symptoms, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial. Taking charge of your liver's health: The good news is that liver damage from lifestyle factors is often reversible in its early stages. Experts emphasize that the key lies in prevention and consistent, simple lifestyle changes. * Eat a balanced diet: Prioritise a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit your intake of processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and sugary drinks. * Exercise daily: Aim for at least 30 to 45 minutes of brisk activity every day. This can be as simple as walking, jogging, or doing yoga. Regular exercise helps burn triglycerides and reduces fat accumulation in the liver. * Maintain a healthy weight: Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly reduce liver fat. * Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps your liver flush out toxins more efficiently. * Limit alcohol consumption: While NAFLD is on the rise, alcohol remains a significant risk factor for liver damage. Moderate your intake to give your liver a break. * Manage stress and sleep: Incorporate stress-management techniques like meditation and yoga into your routine, and aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night. * Get regular check-ups: Routine health screenings, including liver function tests, are essential for early detection, especially for individuals with risk factors like obesity or diabetes. The liver is a remarkably resilient organ, capable of regeneration and healing. However, it needs our support. By making mindful choices every day, we can protect our liver from the growing threat of lifestyle-related diseases and secure a healthier future for ourselves and our nation. It's time to pay back the organ that works tirelessly to keep us healthy.
Time of India
6 hours ago
- Time of India
Sadar offering CT-scan on prescriptions from private docs
1 2 Ranchi: People carrying prescriptions from private doctors can also avail Computed Tomography Scan (CT) at a nominal charge of Rs 1,035 at Sadar hospital. The move is aimed to offer financial relief to patients, especially from low-income families, officials said. Since its launch on June 10, the modern diagnostic facility equipped with a 128-slice CT scan machine has seen a surge in footfall, with many patients reporting that they had long delayed the test due to high charges at private centres. Under public-private partnership (PPP) model, the service is being managed by Krishna Diagnostics. The initiative ensures that both Ayushman Bharat beneficiaries and non-Ayushman patients have access to affordable imaging services. While tests are free for Ayushman cardholders, others are charged as per Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) rates Rs 1,035 for CT scans and Rs 1,662 for MRIs. Ranchi civil surgeon, Dr Prabhat Kumar, said, " Patients no longer need referrals from government doctors. Anyone can walk in with any valid prescription from a private practitioner, register at the counter, and get the test done with no additional approval needed. For many, this flexibility has been transformative. Shanti Devi, a resident of Morabadi, said, "My father was asked to get a CT scan. Private labs quoted Rs 4,200, which we couldn't afford. At Sadar, we paid Rs 1,035, and everything was managed professionally. It was a huge relief." Another patient, Ashok Kumar from Lalpur, said, "I was hesitant to get the scan done due to cost. But when I heard that it's available at just Rs 1,035 at Sadar even on a private doctor's prescription, I didn't wait. The machine is modern, and the staff was very supportive." Sunita Kumari, a domestic worker who brought her 10-year-old son for a scan, said, "Earlier, I would've had to borrow money or skip the test. Now, I got it done at a cost we could manage. This is real help for people like us." Additionally, the hospital will start Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) services at affordable rates for all patients, including those with prescriptions from private doctors. The service is expected to begin next week.
The Hindu
15 hours ago
- The Hindu
Health officials told to step up measures to counter seasonal diseases
State Commissioner of Family Welfare G. Veerapandian directed the Medical and Health officials across Chittoor district to step up preparedness measures against seasonal diseases given the ongoing monsoon, on Saturday. The virtual session included District Medical and Health Officer (DMHO) D.T. Sudharani and district-level programme officers. The Commissioner informed the officials to adopt and enforce focused strategies to fight malaria, dengue, chikungunya, and diarrhoeal infections. He directed them to launch a series of public awareness campaigns across the district, particularly in the rural areas. Mr. Veerapandian directed the compulsory entry of Electronic Health Records (EHR) for all out-patient cases to streamline treatment at the PHCs and district hospital. He asked the doctors to follow up regularly under the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) survey and enhance data entry in low-performing areas. The Commissioner insisted that all deliveries, both at the government and private hospitals, must be recorded in the Health Management Information System (HMIS). Institutional deliveries should be taken up extensively to curb maternal and infant mortality. He said that high-risk pregnancies should be referred to district hospitals. The official suggested that the Medical and Paramedical fraternity should do their best to reduce C-section births. He further focussed on the launching of campaigns to prevent teenage pregnancies.
