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Time of India
29-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
India's Prime Age Faces Growing Threat of Acute Myeloid Leukemia
New Delhi: At 40, many envision a peak career phase, supporting families and shaping futures. But for a growing number of Indians, this milestone is being marred by an unexpected adversary — Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), an aggressive and fast-progressing form of blood cancer traditionally associated with older adults. Each year, the city reports at least 3,000 cases of AML, with doctors observing a worrying increase in diagnoses among individuals aged 30 to 40. The troubling shift in younger populations creates a complex interplay of clinical, financial, and psychosocial challenges. To explore this rise, Rashmi Mabiyan Kaur from ETHealthworld spoke to Dr. Ranjit Sahoo, Additional Professor, Medical Oncology, AIIMS, and Dr. Dharma Chaudhary, Vice Chairman – Haemato Oncology & BMT, BLK Super Speciality Hospital. AML originates in the bone marrow and rapidly crowds out healthy blood cells. While it has long been considered a disease of the elderly in the West, in India, a significant portion of AML patients are in their 30s and 40s — a working, earning demographic. 'This is a stem cell disease. The only cure remains a stem cell transplant,' said Dr. Chaudhary. 'If we just give chemotherapy without planning for a transplant or adequate diagnostics, patients will relapse.' This younger age group, though potentially more curable, faces hurdles such as delayed diagnosis, rapid disease progression, and a healthcare system unprepared for aggressive early intervention. Younger patients with AML, if diagnosed early, can be cured in up to 60 per cent of cases, according to Dr. Sahoo. 'Just by age, not even accounting for genomics, pediatric and young adult AML patients have a higher curability,' he emphasized. 'But we're often seeing them too late, wherein they are already infected or in poor general condition that reduces their odds significantly.' Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Standard care involves induction chemotherapy followed by consolidation therapy and, in high-risk cases, a bone marrow transplant (BMT). Genetic profiling now enables doctors to determine whether chemotherapy alone is sufficient or if BMT is necessary. However, India's fragmented healthcare infrastructure means that not all patients get access to advanced diagnostics, proper chemotherapy regimens, or transplant centers — a combination vital for long-term remission. In India, the financial toxicity of AML treatment is staggering. As Dr. Chaudhary explained, the total cost from diagnosis to transplant ranges between ₹20 to ₹30 lakh in private settings. Government hospitals provide treatment between ₹50,000 to ₹2 lakh — but have limited capacity and long waiting lists. Compounding the crisis is the lack of adequate insurance coverage. Most commercial policies provide limited payouts, often exhausted during the first cycle of chemotherapy. 'Patients either need to be self-funded or covered under government schemes like CGHS or ESI,' Dr. Sahoo noted. Experts stated that middle-class patients fall through the cracks. They often abandon treatment midway, not because it isn't working, but because it is unaffordable. AML is curable, especially in India's young but only if caught and treated in time. 'Every 40-year-old with AML is curable on paper,' Dr. Sahoo asserted. Beyond biology and bank accounts, AML in younger individuals poses stark social repercussions. At 40, many are sole breadwinners. A sudden diagnosis of AML means job loss, financial ruin, and emotional breakdown of the entire household. Moreover, the urgency of care needed, from rapid transfusions to complex therapies, requires family, community, and logistical support that is hard to marshal in the Indian context. Platelet donations, for instance, must be arranged quickly and repeatedly. As India battles a rising tide of non-communicable diseases, AML among younger adults demands urgent attention. It's not just a clinical challenge — it's a call for systemic reform, financial inclusion, and compassionate care, urged the experts. For now, hope rests on early diagnosis, integrated care, and stronger policy support because behind every AML diagnosis in a young adult is not just a patient, but a family, a future, and a life waiting to be saved. The experts were speaking at the AML awareness session organized by AbbVie India.
Time of India
28-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Inside India's Gut Health Craze: Miracle Detox or Dangerous Fad?
By Vishal Kumar Singh New Delhi: As gut health becomes India's newest wellness obsession, a controversial detox trend is making waves—and splitting expert opinion. From health-focused millennials to wellness-aware seniors, Indians are increasingly turning inward—literally. A 2023 survey by HealthifyMe revealed that 68 per cent of urban Indians now consider gut health their top wellness priority. Riding this surge in internal well-being is colon hydrotherapy—an old practice making a flashy comeback in luxury spas and influencer circles. According to a report by Redseer Strategy Consultants, India's wellness market was valued at INR 490 billion (~$6 billion) in 2022 and is projected to grow at 15 per cent CAGR, with a strong tilt towards preventive health, internal detox, and aesthetic wellness services. Marketed as the ultimate cleanse to beat bloating, boost immunity, and 'reset' your system, colonic irrigation is enjoying a glamorous revival. But behind the glowing testimonials lies a growing controversy: Is colon hydrotherapy a legitimate wellness tool—or a risky wellness fad? While wellness practitioners call it transformative, leading doctors warn it could do more harm than good. In this deep dive, ETHealthworld on World Digestive Health Day explores the rise of colon hydrotherapy in India—what it claims to offer, what the science really says, and whether flushing your colon is a shortcut to better health or just another detox myth. The Appeal of the Internal Cleanse As health consciousness rises across generations—from Gen Z and millennials to older adults—so does the appeal of detox trends promising internal renewal. From juice cleanses and gut resets to lymphatic massages, the pursuit of "cleaning from within" is gaining momentum in the post-pandemic wellness landscape. Among these, colon hydrotherapy is emerging as a popular service in luxury spas and wellness clinics. Social media interest has surged, with hashtags like #guthealth and #coloncleanse receiving over 500,000 mentions on Instagram from India alone, reflecting a cultural shift toward digestive wellness. Marketed as a way to flush out toxins and reboot digestive health, colonic irrigation is undergoing a revival. But behind its growing popularity lies a sharp divide: while some users and practitioners swear by its immediate benefits, much of the medical community warns that such procedures lack scientific backing and may carry real risks. What Is Colon Hydrotherapy? Colon hydrotherapy involves gently flushing the large intestine with warm, filtered water through a small tube inserted into the rectum. The goal is to remove waste, gas, and supposed 'toxins.' Sessions typically last between 30 and 60 minutes and are often conducted in spas or alternative wellness centers, sometimes as part of broader detox programs. The hydrotherapy practitioners claim it can relieve bloating, boost immunity, enhance mental clarity, and support everything from weight loss to cancer prevention. Critics, however, remain unconvinced. Currently, more than 70 luxury spas and integrative wellness centres in India—including those in Goa, Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru—offer colon hydrotherapy, with prices ranging from ₹3,000 to ₹6000 or more per session, and detox retreats costing up to ₹50,000 or more. The Medical View: No Proven Benefit but Plenty of Risk? 'There is no evidence-based clinical indication for colon hydrotherapy,' says Dr. Vikas Singla, Senior Director and Head of Gastroenterology at Max Super Specialty Hospital, Saket. 'It can cause trauma, ulceration, bleeding, and even bowel perforation.' 'Flushing your colon can disrupt the natural microbiota. It may lead to lowered immunity and long-term digestive issues," Dr. Singla warns. He explains that gut problems like constipation , bloating, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are often linked to lifestyle factors such as sedentary habits, stress, and poor diet. 'People want quick fixes. Colon hydrotherapy is marketed as a one-stop solution, which lures chronically suffering patients. But the real solution isn't invasive irrigation—it's regular physical activity, fiber-rich foods, hydration, and adequate sleep," he adds. Dr. B.S. Ravindra, Director of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Fortis Hospitals , concurs. 'From a clinical standpoint, colon hydrotherapy offers no robust scientific benefit. The risks—ranging from infections to electrolyte imbalances—outweigh any perceived gain.' A global review in the Journal of Family Practice found serious complications associated with colon hydrotherapy, including bowel perforation and severe infections, though these incidents are believed to be underreported in India due to limited regulation. Both experts emphasize that the human body already has a built-in detox system: the liver, kidneys, and intestinal lining. The Appeal: Why the Trend Persists If the science is weak and the risks are real, why are people still lining up for colonic sessions? Post-pandemic, there's been a sharp rise in interest in internal health, immune resilience, and self-care. Google Trends data shows a 230 per cent spike in searches for 'gut health' and related terms in India between 2020 and 2023, especially in metros like Bengaluru and Delhi. 'Many patients prefer a natural or 'clean' solution. But that preference is being exploited by unregulated wellness practices," says Dr. Ravindra. He warns of a growing "DIY detox culture" that often skips medical consultation, potentially delaying diagnoses or masking underlying issues. Worse, colonics are frequently performed in non-medical settings with minimal oversight. The Practitioner's Perspective: 'We've Helped Thousands' Not everyone in the field sees it that way. Dr. Poonam Bali, B.H.M.S, with a postgraduate degree in Homoeopathy from London and a colon hydrotherapist practicing for over two decades , says: "Colon hydrotherapy is safe, effective, and transformative when done correctly,' she asserts. 'We use fully automated machines, disposable equipment, and trained staff. In 20 years, I haven't seen a single adverse event.' She believes scepticism from the medical community stems from either a lack of understanding or vested interests. 'Our clients range from chemotherapy patients to children with severe constipation. Most report immediate relief—improved digestion , lighter moods, and more energy.' Dr Bali agrees that lifestyle changes are essential, but views colon therapy as a complementary tool. 'Most people are mildly constipated without realising it. Colonics help reset the system, especially when paired with good diet and exercise.' Still, she concedes that one session isn't a cure-all. 'We recommend a three-session protocol, followed by quarterly or monthly maintenance—like servicing a machine. Your body needs internal upkeep.' Myths and Misconceptions: A Medical Perspective A central myth, according to both doctors, is the belief that colon cleansing is essential for detoxification. 'The colon doesn't store toxins,' says Dr. Singla. 'The idea that flushing it promotes health is unscientific. Overuse of colonics can damage the gut microbiome —an ecosystem crucial for digestion, immunity, and even mental well-being.' They also caution against interpreting bloating or sluggish digestion as a call for cleansing. 'In many cases, better hydration, increased fiber intake, and physical movement are all that's needed,' says Dr. Ravindra. Regulation and Responsibility Experts call for stronger regulation of wellness therapies. 'There's a gap in oversight that allows colonics to be marketed without adequate scientific scrutiny,' says Dr. Ravindra. 'We need standardized protocols, clear guidelines, and greater public education.' The trend also points to a broader issue: low health literacy. A 2021 survey by the Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI) found that only 37% of Indian adults had adequate health literacy to evaluate health interventions or wellness claims. 'Consumers need better access to reliable information,' adds Dr. Singla. 'The answer isn't more treatments—it's more awareness.' Final Flush: What's the Verdict? Colon hydrotherapy occupies a complicated space. While practitioners and fans hail it as rejuvenating, medical experts largely dismiss it as unproven and potentially risky. Somewhere between the promise of 'cleansing' and the caution of science lies a simple truth: gut health can't be outsourced. It isn't achieved through quick fixes, but built over time with consistent, healthy lifestyle choices. As wellness culture continues to grow, so does the responsibility to separate fact from fad. In the words of Dr. Singla, 'Gut health doesn't need a shortcut. It needs commitment.'
Time of India
20-05-2025
- Climate
- Time of India
Delhi's Heat Index Shoots Up: IMD Warns of Intensifying Heatwave Threats
New Delhi: The capital is engulfed in a blistering heatwave that feels like an unrelenting furnace, where the very air seems to shimmer with heat. Tuesday saw temperatures soar to a sweltering 40.8°C, but the true torment lies in the soaring heat index — a brutal combination of temperature and humidity that leaves the city feeling like a pressure cooker. The rising heat is more than just a discomfort — it's a warning sign of an intensifying crisis, as the India Meteorological Department alerts the public to the growing severity and persistence of heatwaves this summer. The city, already grappling with urban heat islands, faces a season that threatens to push its limits, challenging both health and infrastructure. According to India Meteorological Department (IMD) data, the capital recorded a hot and humid day, with a maximum temperature touching 40.8 degrees Celsius (°C), as a combination of clear skies and increased moisture led to uncomfortable weather conditions. The oppressive weather comes as the India Meteorological Department issues fresh warnings on the severity and persistence of heatwaves expected this summer. Speaking at ETHealthworld's webinar on "Unpacking Delhi's Deadly Heatwave and Public Health Emergency," Dr M. Mohapatra, Director General of Meteorology at IMD, underscored the unusual patterns and growing intensity of heatwaves across the country. 'This year, we predicted that there will be a higher than normal number of heatwave days,' he said. 'Usually, there are about 7 to 10 days of heatwaves in different parts of India each year, but this year, we expect an increase of about 6 to 10 additional days.' While the frequency may be slightly less compared to last year, Dr. Mohapatra emphasized that heat will still be intense and widespread. So far, March and April have seen severe heatwave conditions in western India, especially Gujarat and Rajasthan, along with parts of Haryana, Delhi, Punjab, and Jammu. Eastern states like Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, and Uttar Pradesh have also reported isolated heatwave episodes. Central India, particularly Vidarbha and southern Madhya Pradesh, may experience more such events in late May. 'The heatwave is one of the severe weather hazards, which affects not only human lives and property, but also has wide and adverse impacts on various sectors of society,' he said, highlighting risks to agriculture, power supply, water availability, and public health. Dr. Mohapatra also pointed out that rising urbanization is intensifying the urban heat island effect, where central parts of cities like Delhi witness higher temperatures due to concrete structures, dense populations, and less green cover. 'All these are contributing to increased vulnerability of individuals and urban systems,' he said. In response, IMD has enhanced its early warning services, especially for urban centers like Delhi. The department now issues district-specific forecasts for the city's seven districts instead of a general forecast, allowing for better preparedness and targeted advisories. Importantly, the IMD has begun incorporating relative humidity and temperature-humidity indices in its forecasts to better assess real-world discomfort and risk levels. With every 1°C rise in temperature, atmospheric humidity can increase by around 7 per cent, worsening conditions for the population. Another concern flagged by Dr. Mohapatra is the combination of heatwaves with high night-time temperatures—known as warm nights—which prevent the human body from recovering from daytime heat exposure and significantly increase health risks, especially for the elderly and those with comorbidities. To offer a more comprehensive picture, IMD also overlays air quality data (PM2.5 and PM10 levels) with heatwave alerts in cities like Delhi. 'This enables a composite assessment by the public and relevant agencies to take timely action,' said Dr. Mohapatra. He added that persistence is key: a heatwave lasting just a couple of days might not be disastrous, but if it continues for four or five days, especially in densely populated or vulnerable areas, it can lead to high mortality and morbidity. As India heads into the peak of summer, weather experts are urging citizens and authorities alike to take precautionary steps. With climate change, urban expansion, and increasing atmospheric moisture intensifying the impact of heatwaves, this summer may be yet another reminder of how urgent climate resilience measures have become
Time of India
10-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
From Muhurat Births to Mental Health Crises: A Gynaecologist's Wake-Up Call for Mother's Day
New Delhi: Motherhood, once considered a natural phase of life, is today often marked by complexity, planning, and vulnerability. In India, nearly half of all pregnancies are now labelled high-risk—a stark reality that reflects not just changing biology, but also changing society. On this Mother's Day, Rashmi Mabiyan Kaur from ETHealthworld explores the changing landscape of motherhood with insights from Dr Arpana Haritwal, Principal Consultant - Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital. According to Dr. Haritwal, the most prominent driver of high-risk pregnancies is advanced maternal age. More women are choosing to have children later in life—often due to career aspirations, late marriages, or fertility delays. While empowering in some ways, this shift brings heightened risks: diabetes, hypertension, preterm delivery, and even increased chances of miscarriage. Modern lifestyles—characterised by poor diets, sedentary routines, rising obesity, and stress—are compounding these medical challenges. Another unsettling trend is the preference for caesarean sections based on convenience, social status, or even astrology. 'The 'too posh to push' mindset is real,' Dr. Haritwal says candidly. 'Fear of labour pain, hospital convenience, and beliefs in auspicious timing have increased non-medical C-section rates.' But the consequences can be serious—longer recovery, future pregnancy complications, and increased health risks for both mother and child. From surgical site infections to delayed bonding between newborns and mothers, the ripple effects of a C-section done without medical necessity can be long-lasting. 'It's critical for expecting parents to make informed decisions guided by medical need, not fear or superstition,' she urges. Postpartum Care: The Invisible Phase While pregnancy receives significant attention, postpartum care is often neglected. 'Mental health, adequate sleep, and physical rehabilitation are the most overlooked aspects,' says Dr. Haritwal. Today's new mothers are expected to "bounce back" swiftly, even as they grapple with exhaustion, hormonal shifts, and societal pressure. One pressing issue is postpartum depression, which often hides in plain sight. 'It's very common but rarely discussed. Crying spells, anxiety, mood swings, and withdrawal are red flags families should not ignore,' she explains. While mild symptoms may resolve within weeks, severe cases require medical intervention—and the first step is to normalise seeking help. Today's first-time mothers face a web of modern pressures that were largely absent a generation ago. She outlines some of the most striking challenges faced by today's first-time mothers: the overwhelming information overload from the internet, which often leads to confusion and anxiety; the pressure of social media, which creates unrealistic parenting standards; the struggle to balance work and motherhood amid limited maternity support; the weakening of traditional support systems due to nuclear families and urban isolation; and the growing economic burden of raising a child in an increasingly expensive world. These realities make the journey of motherhood feel more like a marathon than a celebration. The romanticised notion of motherhood is now tempered with hard decisions, fatigue, and resilience. Despite these hurdles, Dr. Haritwal emphasises that preparation and support can turn the tide. Women over 35, for instance, can lower their risks by starting preconceptional counselling, undergoing early screening, and taking prenatal supplements months before trying to conceive. She also urged that families must show up—not just during baby showers, but in the sleepless nights, the teary breakdowns, and the quiet moments of doubt. This Mother's Day, let's give them what they truly need—understanding, informed support, and the freedom to speak openly about the challenges of bringing life into the world. More than celebration, every mother deserves care—before, during, and long after birth.
Time of India
07-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
RGCIRC launches campaign for early oral cancer detection, Health News, ET HealthWorld
Advt By , ETHealthWorld Join the community of 2M+ industry professionals Subscribe to our newsletter to get latest insights & analysis. Download ETHealthworld App Get Realtime updates Save your favourite articles Scan to download App New Delhi: Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre (RGCIRC), Rohini, New Delhi, in association with Merck Specialities Private Limited has launched the 'Two-Minute Action for Oral Cancer Protection' campaign with the hashtag # campaign aims to tackle the alarming rise in oral cancer cases by encouraging individuals to perform a quick self-check using mirrors that are almost always available to one and all. The stated message of the campaign is: Look, Feel, and to the institute, mirror checks can help identify early signs of oral cancer , potentially enabling timely part of the initiative, mirrors will be placed in hospital waiting areas to encourage visitors to perform (Prof) Sudhir Kumar Rawal, Medical Director, RGCIRC said, 'Head and neck cancer is very common in India. These types of cancers are lifestyle-related, and linked to the rampant use of tobacco and alcohol in society. The treatment of this cancer, especially when detected early, is much more effective.'Dr. A.K. Dewan, Director, Surgical Oncology, RGCIRC stated, 'Gutkha, smoking, alcohol consumption, poor oral hygiene, and certain viral infections, especially Human Papillomavirus (HPV) are key risk factors contributing to the rising incidence of throat cancers.''There should be awareness on the common early signs and symptoms of oral cancers like white patches, red patches, referred ear pain, and nonhealing ulcers.' said Dr. Mudit Agarwal, Unit Head & Senior Consultant, Head & Neck Oncology, RGCIRC.
