Latest news with #MetropolisHealthcareLimited
News18
25-05-2025
- Health
- News18
Clinically Differentiating Between Covid-19, Dengue, Influenza, And Other Infections
Last Updated: The challenge to differentiate between COVID-19, Influenza, Dengue, may lead to misdiagnosis in the acute stage of the disease, which may lead to incorrect treatment Clinically differentiating COVID-19, Influenza, Dengue, and other infections can be challenging in tropical regions due to the similarity of symptoms in these infections. These challenges may lead to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis in the acute stage of the disease, which may lead to incorrect treatment and undesirable clinical outcomes. Dr. LakshmiPriya R, Senior Consultant Microbiologist and Molecular Biologist, Metropolis Healthcare Limited (Chennai) shares the difference: COVID-19 and Influenza are contagious respiratory illnesses that spread through respiratory droplets. Whereas dengue is a viral illness transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito and is not contagious from human to human directly. The incubation period for COVID and Influenza virus is within 1-4 days after exposure, after which the fever may last for 3-7 days. It is not possible to differentiate between COVID and influenza infection with symptoms alone, since most of the symptoms are similar to both infections. The incubation period for dengue infection is between 4-10 days after the mosquito bite, and the fever may last for 2-7 days. Dengue fever may vary from mild to severe. Only the mild dengue infection mimics flu infection, whereas severe forms may have hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome. Most common symptoms of COVID 19 and Influenza infection are moderate to high grade fever (from 100°F to 102°F) and is continuous for 3- 4 days, chills, sore throat, cough, runny nose, shortness of breath, fatigue, body ache may be mild to moderate, headache, sometimes COVID infection can cause new loss of smell or taste. The petechial rash in dengue usually begins in the chest and then spreads to other parts of the body. Dengue usually presents in 3 phases. In the febrile phase, the patient presents with high-grade fever that lasts for 2-7 days along with other symptoms. During the critical phase, the fever may drop for a period of 3-5 days. But this is a risky stage, where there may be a drop in platelets. Followed by a recovery phase, where the body reabsorbs the excess fluid, and the patient gradually starts to feel better. Complete blood count (CBC) is the most important test that helps in the initial differentiation of dengue and COVID infection. The blood-based parameters help in the differential diagnosis of the various febrile illnesses. Like Dengue patients have leucopenia, followed by a rapid drop in platelet count with a rise in haematocrit value, COVID patients may present with leucocytosis/leucopenia with eosinopenia and lymphopenia. The most common predictor for COVID is lymphopenia. There is potential cross-reactivity in the serological test of COVID-19-positive patients tested for Dengue and vice versa. This is because there is a similarity in the epitope of the HR2 domain of SARS-CoV-2 and the dengue envelope protein. In such patients, the dengue virus infection is ruled out by no evidence of seroconversion or persistence of a positive serological test. Also, confirmation can be done by performing Dengue RT-PCR. First Published: May 25, 2025, 07:37 IST
Fashion Value Chain
22-05-2025
- Health
- Fashion Value Chain
Metropolis Healthcare Launches TruHealth Cancer Screen 360, a First-of-its-kind Initiative to Strengthen Preventive Oncology in India
As cancer continues to pose a growing public health concern, Ameera Shah-led Metropolis Healthcare Limited, India's second-largest and most respected diagnostic laboratory chain, has announced the launch of TruHealth Cancer Screen 360-a comprehensive screening panel aimed at revolutionizing Preventive Oncology in India. A first-of-its-kind in the Indian diagnostics space, the TruHealth Cancer Screen 360 Male and Female Profiles are scientifically curated to provide early insights, equipping both clinicians and individuals with critical, actionable information. This launch reinforces Metropolis' commitment to enhancing access to specialized cancer diagnostics while making them more affordable and inclusive. Metropolis Healthcare Launches TruHealth Cancer Screen 360, a First-of-its-kind Initiative to Strengthen Preventive Oncology in India According to the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) 2022, cancer remains a major global health concern. In the South-East Asia region, India ranks third in terms of cancer incidence, second for mortality, and 121st in terms of crude rates globally. Alarmingly, screening coverage in India-especially among women-remains under 1% for cervical, breast, and oral cancers, far below the World Health Organizations 70% target for cervical cancer screening. Limited access to healthcare, low awareness, and financial constraints continue to hinder the adoption of widespread screening. The TruHealth Cancer Screen 360 includes tumor markers, hereditary cancer risk analysis, and gender-specific screening modules-such as PSA for prostate cancer in men and HPV self-sampling for cervical cancer in women. Designed to address the rising cancer burden and bridge diagnostic gaps, the panel offers a multi-layered, evidence-based approach to detect early signs of common cancers in both men and women. Commenting on the launch, Mr. Surendran Chemmenkottil, CEO, Metropolis Healthcare Ltd., said, 'The introduction of TruHealth Cancer Screen 360 Male and Female Profiles reflects our unwavering commitment to strengthening preventive healthcare in India. By equipping individuals with timely and reliable diagnostic tools, we aim to empower them to take charge of their health. Early detection is key to reducing the burden of late-stage cancer, improving outcomes, and saving lives. This initiative is also aligned with our strategic focus on expanding Metropolis' footprint in oncology diagnostics-an increasingly critical domain in healthcare. We remain committed to making advanced diagnostics accessible and affordable across both urban and non-urban areas.' A recent GLOBOCAN report also highlights a concerning trend-earlier onset of cancers in urban populations, with rising incidence of breast, cervical, and ovarian cancers in women, and lung and prostate cancers in men. These often go undiagnosed until advanced stages, making treatment more difficult and outcomes less favourable. Dr. Kirti Chadha, Senior Oncopathologist and Chief Scientific and Innovation Officer, Metropolis Healthcare Ltd. said, 'With the growing incidence of gender-specific cancers such as breast, cervical, and prostate, there is an urgent need to integrate targeted cancer screening into routine health check-ups. The TruHealth Cancer Screen 360 has been developed as an evidence-based, comprehensive tool that goes beyond general wellness testing. By incorporating a broad spectrum of biomarkers and hereditary risk indicators, it facilitates early identification of cancer risks-even before symptoms appear. This approach enhances clinical decision-making and provides individuals with actionable insights, helping bridge the gap between symptomless disease progression and timely medical intervention.' Key features of TruHealth Cancer Screen 360 (Male & Female Profiles) Gender-specific panels for breast, ovarian, cervical, liver, lung, prostate, colorectal, and thyroid cancers. Three-layered screening combining tumor markers, hereditary cancer risk analysis (covering 25+ cancer types), and organ-specific assessments. Hereditary cancer screening through a NextGen Panel that analyses 317 genes, enabling preventive measures for patients and family members. HPV Self-Sampling (Female Profile): WHO-recommended self-test kits for primary cervical cancer screening-removing barriers like discomfort, time constraints, or clinic access. Free genetic counseling with certified counsellors to support individuals in understanding results and next steps. The TruHealth Cancer Screen 360 is available at an introductory price, significantly lower than the combined cost of individual tests-making this advanced screening solution both affordable and accessible. With a robust portfolio of over 4,000 tests and profiles, Metropolis continues to lead diagnostic innovation. Through this integrated cancer screening initiative, the company reaffirms its mission to drive early diagnosis, clinical excellence, and preventive healthcare for all. About Metropolis Healthcare Limited Established in 1981, Metropolis Healthcare Limited is India's second-largest diagnostic chain, led by visionary leader Ms. Ameera Shah. With over four decades of excellence, Metropolis has been a pioneer in delivering best-in-class diagnostic services to patients, healthcare providers, and corporates across India and Africa. The company's extensive footprint spans 22 states, 3 Union Territories, and over 750 towns in India, supported by a robust network of more than 210 laboratories, 4,500 patient service centers, and over 10,000 touchpoints. Each year, Metropolis serves millions of individuals by providing actionable health insights that empower better clinical outcomes. Metropolis offers a comprehensive range of more than 4,000 tests and profiles, including advanced tests for diagnosing cancer, neurological disorders, infectious diseases, and various genetic abnormalities. The company's commitment to quality and accuracy is reinforced by its consistent CAP proficiency score of over 98% for the past decade, placing it among the top 1% of laboratories worldwide for quality assurance. The Metropolis philosophy is built on the pillars of technological superiority, a warm, patient-centric approach, and reliable diagnostic reports. For more information, please visit or click on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn.
Time of India
21-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Inherited blood disorders common in young children, study suggests
Mumbai: Diagnostic laboratory chain Metropolis Healthcare has released findings from a three-year study (2021–2024) that screened nearly 20,000 children under the age of 12 who were clinically suspected of having hemoglobinopathies —genetic disorders that affect red blood cells. The study reveals that 28.4 per cent of the children tested were affected. Among the identified cases, the most common conditions were the beta-thalassemia trait (38.7 per cent) and sickle cell disease or trait (30 per cent). Notably, over half of the affected children were under the age of three, underscoring the need to integrate prenatal testing, early screening, and genetic counseling into routine maternal and child healthcare . The study also highlights regional disparities in prevalence. The North-East recorded the highest positivity rate at 48.44 per cent, with a significant presence of Hemoglobin E. Central India showed a higher burden of sickle cell disease at 37.36 per cent, while South India reported an overall prevalence of 34.09 per cent. Beta-thalassemia trait was found to be widely prevalent in Northern and Western India. An earlier pan-India study by Metropolis, which analysed 65,779 cases, further reinforced the importance of molecular testing in diagnosing hemoglobinopathies . According to the company, advanced tools like Next-generation sequencing (NGS) can analyze key genes—HBB, HBA1, and HBA2—in greater detail, detecting genetic mutations that traditional testing may overlook. This facilitates accurate diagnosis, identification of carriers, and enables a more personalized approach to disease management. Metropolis states that the high sensitivity and precision of NGS make it especially suitable for large-scale screening programs, aiding improved clinical decision-making in managing thalassemia and related disorders. Dr. Smita Sudke, Chief of Laboratory, Pune & Rest of Maharashtra, Metropolis Healthcare, and the lead author of the study, said, 'By incorporating advanced molecular diagnostic tools such as Sanger sequencing, Gap-PCR, and Next-generation sequencing (NGS), we can ensure timely diagnosis, empower reproductive planning, and ease the long-term health and economic burdens on families and the healthcare system.' Dr. Kirti Chadha, Chief Scientific and Innovation Officer at Metropolis Healthcare Limited, added, 'Molecular testing is pivotal in diagnosing and managing complex blood disorders, particularly beta-thalassemia major and sickle cell disease. It helps decode unexplained symptoms such as anemia or microcytosis and enables early detection—even before symptoms appear—making it indispensable for prenatal and newborn screening.'
News18
11-05-2025
- Health
- News18
Preventive Screening: Essential Tests for Every Mom
Last Updated: Preventive health screenings empower mothers to detect potential issues early, ensuring they stay strong for themselves and their families. Today's mothers shoulder multiple responsibilities and play various roles in their personal and professional lives. To manage it all effectively, they need to stay healthy—both physically and mentally. This is where the importance of preventive screening comes into play. Preventive screening involves undergoing regular health check-ups, enabling the early detection of health issues when they are easier to treat. Life-threatening diseases such as breast and cervical cancer can be diagnosed in their initial stages through preventive screenings, significantly improving the chances of a complete cure. These screenings also help identify chronic conditions like diabetes, which often go unnoticed until complications develop, says Dr. Madhura Jogwar, Lab Chief, Metropolis Healthcare Limited (Mumbai). Some of the essential blood tests include a Complete Blood Count (CBC) to detect anaemia—a condition common among women and often overlooked despite symptoms like fatigue and weakness. Blood sugar tests (fasting and post-meal), along with HbA1c, are important for diabetes screening. Other key investigations include thyroid function tests (TSH, T3, T4), Vitamin B12 levels, liver function tests (LFT), renal function tests (RFT), and a complete lipid profile to evaluate the risk of cardiac diseases. In addition, screenings such as ECG and 2D-Echocardiography are valuable tools for assessing heart health. Cancer screening is another critical component of preventive care, especially for conditions common in women. Breast cancer can be detected early through mammography—a low-dose X-ray. It is also recommended that women perform a self-breast examination once a month and undergo a clinical breast examination by a healthcare professional annually. Cervical cancer is among the most preventable cancers, and regular screening plays a vital role in its early detection. It is primarily caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Screening can be done through a Pap smear (cervical cytology testing), which detects precancerous cellular changes, or through HPV testing. According to current guidelines, women aged 30–65 years should undergo cytology screening every three years or opt for co-testing with HPV testing every five years. The World Health Organization (WHO) also recommends HPV self-testing to improve screening accessibility. Another important aspect of a mother's health is bone health. Blood tests to assess calcium and Vitamin D levels, along with a Bone Mineral Density (BMD) scan, help evaluate and monitor bone strength—particularly in women approaching or undergoing menopause. Mothers are the backbone of every family. Preventive health screening is not just a medical requirement; it's a meaningful form of self-care. Encouraging mothers to prioritise their health is one of the best gifts we can give them this Mother's Day. First Published: May 11, 2025, 07:40 IST
