Apollo Proton Cancer Centre (APCC) and Ion Beam Applications (IBA), Belgium have signed an agreement to offer proton therapy training and education for clinicians in Asia and across the globe.Apollo Hospitals has acquired IBA’s Proteus®PLUS proton therapy system and has been successfully treating cancer patients for over three years. Now, with this association, APCC will impart knowledge through its advanced training and education program on proton therapy to clinicians.Announcing the partnership, Dr. Prathap C Reddy, Founder & Chairman, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd, said, “An acute need for high quality cancer care and the increasing prevalence of cancer cases in India, was the reason for the genesis of Apollo Cancer Centers (ACC), about three decades ago. Ever since, ACC has continually introduced the finest and most advanced cancer care into India, with the most recent being, bringing in Proton Therapy into the region. Furthermore, in keeping with its resolute mission to raise the bar in cancer care for all in need, in association with IBA, the Apollo Proton Cancer Centre is becoming the first of its kind training and education program reference center in Asia.”Commenting on the collaboration, Mr. Olivier Legrain, Chief Executive Officer at IBA, said, “In the last few years, Apollo Hospitals has shown its expertise and motivation in organizing successful training symposia for local and international proton therapy experts’ community. We are looking forward to collaborating with Apollo to provide high-quality training and education to Proton Therapy users in Asia without need of traveling to another continent.”Dr. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd, said, “It was in 2019 that Proton Therapy was introduced at APCC, it was the first ever in South East Asia and Middle East and this was a definitive step ahead in making the world’s most advanced radiation therapy a lot more accessible to millions of cancer patients. Since then, in delivering care to hundreds of patients, the stellar teams at APCC have demonstrated remarkable expertise in Proton Therapy and the clinical outcomes underline the acumen. Now, with APCC becoming Asia’s first and exclusive Proton Beam Training Institute in association with IBA, it will provide valued access to clinicians across the world and also be a pivotal contributor to research in Oncology and Proton Therapy.”Dr. Rakesh Jalali, Medical Director & Head of Radiation Oncology, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, said, “We started the proton cancer center in India to provide the most advanced cancer treatment available in the world. So far, we have treated patients with various types of tumors. Each patient is selected based on a very intense and rigorous process and approved after discussion in a dedicated site-specific tumor board and peer review process. We have judiciously and consciously made the center on par with any other major international cancer center in terms of care, generation of quality data and several innovative educational initiatives. Now, with this collaboration, we’re providing access to clinicians, physicists and therapists from across Asia and the world to avail the opportunity for training and education on contemporary Proton Beam Therapy Practice.”About IBAIBA (Ion Beam Applications S.A.) is the world leader in particle accelerator technology. The company is the leading supplier of equipment and services in the field of proton therapy, considered to be the most advanced form of radiation therapy available today. IBA is also a leading player in the fields of industrial sterilization, radiopharmaceuticals and dosimetry. The company, based in Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium, employs approximately 1,600 people worldwide. IBA is a certified B Corporation (B Corp) meeting the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance. 

An improper management of some of the interactions between diet and drugs may lead to therapeutic failure or cause serious adverse effects to the patientsSome Medications necessary for disease management can simultaneously leads to Drug- Nutrient Interaction. Drugs can affect nutrition as a result of changes in appetite and taste as well as having an influence on absorption or metabolism of nutrients.A CME was conducted in Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad in Collaboration with the Indian Dietetic Association on 26 June 2014 on Drug- Nutrient Interaction.The Chef Guest were Lft Gen Dr. Mandeep Singh, Dr .P.Janaki Srinath President IDA A.P.Chapter, Dr. K.Bhaskarachary senior scientist from NINThe First Speaker Dr. Sanjeev Sharma (Clinical Pharmacologist, Apollo Hospital Jubilee hills, Hyderabad) gave an overview on Drug- Nutrient Interaction, how nutrients and drugs could compete for the same substrate while getting absorbed and emphasised on the common drug nutrient interactions in a hospital like warfarin and vitamin K, antibiotics and milk iron and calcium interactions etcThe Second Speaker Dr. A.V.Sharma (PhD in Pharmacology, Head Regulatory Affairs and R&D, Sanzyme Ltd) spoke about the Drug_ Nutrient Interaction in the Practical use and how simple over the counter medication like lomotil, or meftal spasm can also be lethal if taken on empty stomach or if taken without prior understanding of side effects. He gave examples of drug – nutrient interaction like ace inhibitors could cause high potassium levels diuretics and anti hypertensive can increase blood sugars etc and also enlightened on drug herb interactions.The Third Speaker Ms. D. Swetha Sri (Dietitian Apollo Hospitals) gave a Case study Presentation on Parkinson’s disease with regards to Nutrient- Drug Interaction. The Medicine Syndopa given to treat/ to control the Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease has a great interaction with the protein available in the Diet and it is recommended that the food and the Drug should not be given at the same time a minimum gap should be maintained between the food & the drug

Hyderabad, August 2nd,2023: A team of Cardiologist at Apollo Hospitals, Jubilee Hills, led by Dr Ranga Reddy, a renowned interventional cardiologist specialising on structural heart disease, introduced a ground-breaking procedure, the MitraClip, for the first time in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, to treat an 87-year-old woman Ms Leela Nair, with recurrent heart failures. The complex and novel procedure involving unique double MitraClip procedure for this patient with severe mitral valve regurgitation or blood leaking backwards through the mitral valve, was done under the guidance of senior cardiologists Dr Manoj Agarwal, and Dr PC Rath, and senior cardiothoracic surgeon Dr Alla Gopala Krishna Gokhale.Mitral valve regurgitation or leakage of valve, a prevalent heart disease, occurs when the valve between the left heart chambers fails to close properly, leading to the backward leakage of blood. It affects around 24 million people worldwide, ranking as the third most common form of valvular heart disease. Conventional treatment involves minimal-invasive mitral valve surgery, which may be effective but poses high procedural complications for older patients or high-risk patients. The non-surgical MitraClip procedure offers a good alternative, improving patient outcomes for those with severe Mitral valve regurgitation.The MitraClip Procedure is a revolutionary and minimally invasive procedure as it involves a catheter to insert a clip to hold the edges of the mitral valve together, providing a unique and safer treatment option compared to the mitral valve surgery, especially for patients aged 60 and above. This procedure offers better recovery prospects and prolongs the life for patients dealing with mitral regurgitation.The Apollo Heart Institute remains at the forefront of medical advancements, offering new-age treatments such as the MitraClip procedure for elderly patients, providing relief and confidence in healthcare options for a healthier and happier life. With this innovative medical approach, older individuals can find relief and confidence in their healthcare options, says Mr.Tejesvi Rao, CEO, Apollo Hospitals, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad.The patient Ms Leela presented with recurrent heart failure hospitalizations and was a known case of severe mitral regurgitation. The 2-D echo and TEE investigations done on her indicated severe degenerative prolapse of posterior mitral valve, the cause for severe eccentric mitral regurgitation. She was advised for surgical valve repair/replacement. In view of her advance age and very high risk for open heart surgery, she was advised trans-catheter mitral valve repair with Mitraclip. Coronary angiogram done showed normal coronaries. After a multidisciplinary heart team meeting it was decided to go ahead with Mitraclip. Two Mitra clips were placed in her, which is typically done when a single clip is not sufficient to reduce backward blood flow adequately.The area of the prolapse in her was large and was causing severe mitral regurgitation, hence we used 2 clips and that significantly reduced mitral regurgitation. The procedure done through right femoral vein, went uneventful, the patient recovered well and was ambulated within 12 hours, says Dr Ranga Reddy.About Apollo Hospitals

Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, Chennai, and Thoothukudi District administration joined hands to launch ‘Screen to Win’, a comprehensive Mobile Health Program. This initiative focuses on the need for regular screening and examination to keep a check on cancers. Apollo Proton Cancer Centre takes pride in being at the forefront in the fight against cancer. In line with its aim to treat cancer patients with best-in-class treatments and technology, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre continues to make a difference with its Mobile Health Program.The Apollo Mobile Health Program was inaugurated and flagged off by Chief Guest Ms. Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, Member of Parliament-Lok Sabha; Hon’ble Mrs. P Geetha Jeevan, Minister for Social Welfare & Women, Government of Tamil Nadu; Hon’ble Mayor Mr. P Jegan; Thoothukudi Municipal Corporation, Thoothukudi; Dr. K Senthil Raj IAS, District Collector, Thoothukudi; Mr. Harshad Reddy, Director, Apollo Cancer Centres and officials from the Government of TamilNadu.The Mobile Health Clinic will start the journey of covering the entire district from Ashok Nagar Chambar Building, Kovilpatti followed by Vilathikulam, Thoothukudi Corp, Kayamozhi & Meignanapuram. The initiative aims to cover all the areas of the district in a span of 5 days and screen over 250 women each day. The Apollo Mobile Clinic is well equipped with advanced diagnostic equipment such as ECG, ECHO, X- Ray, Digital Mammogram. Basic tests such as BMI, RBS, and BP will also be done BP along with a Doctor consultation to have a complete approach to health checkups.Apollo Proton Cancer Centre offers specialized 360-degree care with the most advanced technology for complex surgeries. ‘Screen to Win’ program will not only focus on identifying people who may need further medical attention but will also create much-needed awareness about non-communicable diseases and the importance of preventive healthcare.  

ACP Traffic Sri Anil Kumar burns a giant cigarette, to symbolically burn tobacco before it burns us.Hyderabad, May 31st, 2018: To commemorate the World Health Organisation designated World No Tobacco day, on May 31st, Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, hosted a No Tobacco usage awareness event on Thursday at KBR Park main gate. Chief Guest Sri Anil Kumar, IPS, ACP (Traffic), Hyderabad, burnt a giant cigarette, to symbolically burn tobacco before it burns us and create a smoke free world for us and the future generations. Mr. Y Subramanyam, CEO, Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad; Dr. Umanath Nayak, Consultant, Head & Neck Cancer Surgeon, Apollo Cancer Institute & Dr. Sai Praveen Haranath, Pulmonologist & Critical care specialist, Apollo Hospitals, were present on the occasion.  The No Tobacco Usage Program was organised to raise awareness amongst the public about the dangerous health effects and fatal impact of Tobacco on human beings. The wide spread use of bidis, cigarettes, tobacco chewing andhookah, especially among the younger generation is tragic and cause for serious social concern. It is estimated that there are over 20 million adolescents in the age group of 15–20 years who are addicted to some form of tobacco or pan masala in India.Tobacco besides impacting breathing, can worsen asthma, lead to COPD and is also the cause for over a third of all cancers.The focus of World No Tobacco Day 2018 is “Tobacco and heart disease”, as heart and other cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including stroke, are the world’s leading causes of death. Studies in the past indicated that Tobacco use is an important risk factor for the development of coronary heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease.Despite the known harms of tobacco to heart health, and the availability of solutions to reduce related death and disease, knowledge among large sections of the public that tobacco is one of the leading causes of CVD is dismal.Cardiovascular diseases kill more people than any other cause of death worldwide, and tobacco use and second-hand smoke exposure contribute to approximately 12% of all heart disease deaths. Tobacco use is the second leading cause of CVD, after high blood pressure.The global tobacco epidemic kills more than 7 million people each year, of which close to 9,00,000 are non-smokers dying from breathing second-hand smoke. Nearly 80% of the more than 1 billion smokers worldwide live in low and middle-income countries, where the burden of tobacco-related illness and death is catastrophic.Apollo Hospitals, as the global leaders in promoting health, has established a comprehensive program to detect, prevent, treat and control all Tobacco related diseases at its dedicated Tobacco and smoking cessation clinics. TheClinics have Pulmonologists, counselors and an entire team of health professionals to manage and stop the tobacco addiction and treat related ailments.About Apollo HospitalsIt was in 1983, that Dr.Prathap Reddy made a pioneering endeavour by launching India’s first corporate hospital – Apollo Hospital in Chennai. Now, as Asia largest and most trusted healthcare group, its presence includes 8,488 beds across 51 Hospitals, 1,586 Pharmacies, 92 Primary Care and Diagnostic Clinics, 100 Telemedicine units across 10 countries. Health Insurance services, Global Projects Consultancy, 15 colleges of Nursing and Hospital Management and a Research Foundation with a focus on global Clinical Trials, epidemiological studies, stem cell & genetic research and the first Proton Therapy Centre across Asia, Africa and Australia.In a rare honour, the Government of India issued a commemorative stamp in recognition of Apollo’s contribution, the first for a healthcare organization. Apollo Hospitals Chairman, Dr.Prathap C Reddy, was conferred with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan in 2010. For more than 28 years, the Apollo Hospitals Group has continuously excelled and maintained leadership in medical innovation, world-class clinical services and cutting-edge technology. Our hospitals are consistently ranked amongst the best hospitals globally for advanced medical services and research.   

Apollo Hospitals, Launches “Cancer Champions United” A Unique Initiative To Empower Cancer Survivors!Prominent social activist and Padmashree Awardee Ms Sunitha Krishnan, Tollywood Diva Ms Dimple Hayathi and Dr. Vijay Anand Reddy, Director, Apollo Cancer Hospital engage with Cancer Survivors on the occasion of Cancer Survivors DayHyderabad, June 3rd, 2023: Apollo Hospitals, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad; launched “Cancer Champions United” a unique and empowering initiative dedicated to supporting and uplifting cancer survivors, on the occasion of Cancer Survivors Day. This innovative program aims to provide comprehensive resources, community support, and a platform for survivors to connect, inspire, and thrive. Prominent social activist and Padmashree Awardee Ms Sunitha Krishnan, Tollywood Diva Ms Dimple Hayathi, and Dr. Vijay Anand Reddy, Director, Apollo Cancer Hospital unveiled the survivor friendly program.Cancer Champions United is driven by Apollo Hospitals’ commitment to holistic care and the well-being of cancer survivors beyond their treatment journey. It recognizes the unique challenges faced by survivors and aims to create an inclusive and empowering space where they can find solace, support and encouragement.Through Cancer Champions United, survivors gain access to a range of valuable services and support, including specialized survivorship programs, support groups, counselling services, educational workshops, and milestone celebration events. The initiative aims to foster a sense of unity and shared experiences among survivors, empowering them to navigate the post-treatment phase with strength, resilience, and hope.We are thrilled to launch Cancer Champions United, as it represents our deep commitment to supporting cancer survivors on their unique journey,” said Dr. Vijay Anand Reddy, Director, Apollo Cancer Hospital. “We believe that by providing a platform for survivors to connect, share their stories, and access valuable resources, we can help them navigate the challenges of survivorship and embrace life beyond cancer,” he added.Cancer Champions United is open to all cancer survivors, irrespective of their treatment history or cancer type. It welcomes individuals at any stage of their survivorship journey, encouraging them to join a thriving community that understands their experiences and offers unwavering support.Join Facebook Group here: https://bit.ly/AHCCU            

AHERF is an autonomous organization recognized by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) as Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (SIRO). AHERF spearheads Research and Innovations for the Apollo Hospitals Group. AHERF is actively involved in clinical, basic, epidemiological and translational research. It is also India’s largest integrated Site Solutions Organization (SSO) which has an experience of conducting over 700 clinical trials across 14 locations pan-India. Currently AHERF is engaged in exploring and realizing new therapies, new technologies, business models and evolving similar initiatives to prepare Apollo Hospitals for the next generation.Clinical research is an inevitable but critical part of the drug discovery and development process. Despite witnessing challenges in the recent past, a few areas of clinical research have grown in importance, being critical to study quality areas such as Data Management, Pharmacovigilance, health economics continue to be critical to the research process. This requires trained resources who can leverage such knowledge and apply the same in the industry. At AHERF, we recognize the shortage of industry ready clinical research professionals in India and therefore we have developed a set of carefully evaluated programs:1. Full time, regular one year program –Advanced Certificate Course in Clinical Research (ACCCR) offered at five centers across India namely – Ahmedabad, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, New Delhi. Advanced Certificate Course in Clinical Research (ACC-CR) is affiliated to AU-KBC Research Centre, Anna University, and Chennai (one of India’s largest and well reputed universities). The next batch is planned to commence in August 2014.2. Executive, weekend courses –Executive program in Pharmacovigilance (EPPV) offered at four centers across India namely –Ahmedabad, Chennai, Hyderabad and New Delhi.Executive Program in Clinical Data Management (EPCDM) offered at three centers across India namely – Chennai, Hyderabad and New Delhi.The classes for the short-term courses in Pharmacovigilance and Clinical Data Management will commence on 29th June 2014.The special features of short term courses are as follows:Courses conducted by AHERFShort term course of 8 weeks only.Highest Faculty : Student Ratio (30 students per batch)Standardized course content prepared in conjunction with the industryClasses only on weekends enabling working professionals and final year UG/PG students to enrol as well.Access to ClinCapture, the most advanced open source electronic data capture solution for EPCDM course.IGNOU – AHERF Courses Kindly click the following URL for further information: http://www.aherf.org/Education/index.html.

Hyderabad, 16th May, 2018: World Hypertension Day (WHD) is observed on 17th of May every year to raise awareness on Hypertension and World Hypertension League (WHL) ensures its observation world over. The theme of WHD is ‘Know Your Numbers’ with an aim to increase awareness on high blood pressure. The theme being pertinent considering that only 50% of those with hypertension are aware of their condition. In certain communities the awareness is as dismally low as 10%. Of those who are diagnosed, less than half are treated and only a small percentage achieve normal BP levels. WHD is to raise the awareness levels and make individuals conscious about hypertension and the necessary precautions. Incidentally, the South Asia Regional Office of World Hypertension League is located in Hyderabad at Apollo Hospitals, Jubilee Hills.India is unfortunately being dubbed as the ‘Hypertension Capital’ of the world and it has become India’s number one killer.High blood pressure affects both genders and people of all ages.People should be aware of high blood pressure.Usually high blood pressure causes no symptoms until the damage is done. It is a SILENT KILLER.The community should be aware of this dangerous condition.If you know your name and date-of-birth, you should know your blood pressure number. Know your numbers.High blood pressure can be easily detected, easily diagnosed, easily treated and easily controlled.High blood pressure (hypertension) is the principal reason for Indian people to suffer from heart attacks, heart failure, stroke-paralysis, kidney failure, and loss of memory.At present, 140 million people in India have hypertension. This number is expected to go up to 214 million in the next 10 years.High blood pressure is not just an urban phenomenon, now it has become a big problem in the rural areas all over India.Apollo research has recently confirmed that high blood pressure is very much prevalent in the remote rural area, through its study at Aragonda in Chittoor District.High blood pressure does not go away by itself or evaporate. It has to be treated properly and methodically.The outlook for untreated high blood pressure is same as the outlook for untreated cancer. In other words, high blood pressure has the same significance as cancer.Telangana StatisticsTelangana has the 2nd highest rate of high blood pressure in the country.According to the report by the national institute of nutrition, 39% men and 29% of women have high blood pressure in Telangana.Medak district has the dubious distinction with high levels of blood pressure in the populace.Unfortunately, high BP is striking young individuals in our city, the condition is turning alarming and a cause for great concern. If we don’t take care of this immediately, the young are at a risk of stroke/paralysis, heart attack, and kidney failure. BP should be checked even in the young at schools, colleges, work place, IT industry, etc. The trend of high BP in the young is extremely serious and requires urgent attention.The definition of hypertension has changed this year. Any blood pressure more than 130/80 is considered hypertension. Previously high blood pressure was applicable only if the blood pressure is more than 140/90. Now, the new definition of hypertension is a blood pressure is 130/80 or more. India should be ready for this new definition.It is imperative on the part of the media to disseminate information about the definition of high blood pressure, its dangers, and complications, the media has to sensitize the lay public about high blood pressure and increase the awareness.High BP can cause heart attacks, heart failure, stroke-paralysis, loss of memory, and kidney failure. If these complications occur, life becomes miserable, frequent visits to the doctor, frequent hospitalizations, chronic illness, surgery, stents, dialysis, loss of productivity, and deprivation of life. Fortunately, one can diagnose high BP easily, get treated in order to remain healthy. If the diagnosis is doubtful, one can undergo 24 hr BP recordings with an automatic device—to confirm or exclude the diagnosis. Every adult should know their BP number—like knowing one’s name, age, weight, height, YOU MUST KNOW YOUR NUMBERS. Get the BP checked. Otherwise, you are gambling with life.Costs including financial/social/societal of untreated high BP are astronomical. According to estimates the annual cost of medical care of patients with hypertension related disease in India is $20 billion. Vascular surgery, heart surgery, dialysis, transplantation, and stroke rehabilitation are very expensive. These complications can be prevented by keeping your BP normal. With life-style changes, dietary caution, and medicines, it is possible to lower your BP. But if the BP is neglected or not treated early on, it is tough to get it under control. So, the key is awareness, early diagnosis, and early treatment. Waiting is harmful. BP will not evaporate, it stays and gets worse.In some patients, the high BP could be because of “secondary” hypertension, like Thyroid gland disease, adrenal gland problems, blockage of circulation to the kidney, certain kidney ailments. Heavy snoring/ sleep apnea can cause very high BP and the remedy is to treat the snoring disorder. BP problems in pregnancy can be extremely dangerous for the mother and the fetus. Excessive alcohol use or pain relievers can cause high BP. Patients with secondary hypertension can be cured or improved by correcting the underlying cause. The doctors can suspect a secondary cause and if it is fixed, BP will become normal.It also manifests differently in different people, in some the blood pressure goes up only in the doctor’s office or hospital but is normal outside (at home or work), this is called “white coat hypertension.” Nervous individuals, and “tense” people may have white coat hypertension. In some others, the blood pressure is normal in the doctor’s clinic or hospital but is high outside (at home or work). This is called “reverse” white coat hypertension or “masked” hypertension. These abnormal conditions can be diagnosed by measuring 24 hr blood pressure (at home or work) with an automatic machine.BP in pregnancy is dangerous condition, it affects two individuals, the mother and fetus and we have to have an accurate measure of the mother’s BP. Through ‘Automatic Controlled BP Monitoring’ BP can be recorded for 24 hours accurately and detect BP accurately to control BP. He also pointed out that the current modus of measuring BP from the arm is not totally accurate, it’s done for the sake of convenience. But the real BP is what is felt in the heart, if the BP in the heart is high your risk is high. BP of the heart or Aortic BP is measured by a non-invasive method, no needle, no intervention.Apollo Hospital’s BP clinic and BP institute specialize in hypertension where proper testing, monitoring, and treatment facilities are available through dedicated staff—specializing in hypertension, a one of its kind Clinic in Asia. At Apollo, we can even measure the blood pressure in the heart (non-invasively) and it is one of the best ways to know if you really have high blood pressure. In some people high blood pressure may be due to a cause in the body called “secondary” hypertension. Certain endocrine gland diseases, blockage of circulation to the kidney, and kidney problems can cause “secondary” hypertension which can be cured by correcting the underlying cause. We have many patients in whom the blood pressure was “cured” by correcting/rectifying the underlying cause. Evaluation for “secondary” hypertension is very critical in young individuals with hypertension. Don’t forget the correct “work-up.” By choosing appropriate treatment, blood pressure can be made normal. Choosing the right drugs is the key to successful control of hypertension.   

Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital, Karapakkam organised a blissful pregnancy programme for expectant parents that covers from early pregnancy to early motherhood. The programme aims to boost confidence and preparedness for pregnancy with more ease and be ready for childbirth and new-born care. The programme has been designed as interactive workshops, sessions offering a remarkably seamless experience from conception to birth.Expectant parents were connected to a smart team of doctors and medical specialists who gave cutting-edge information and recommendations on topics such as prenatal nutrition, changes in the body throughout pregnancy, phases of labour, pain management during labour, and Lamaze techniques.Dr. Rajsri J Shankar, Consultant-Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Apollo Hospitals, said “The rising rates of Caesarean sections all over the world is a worrying trend”. Hence Patient education and preparation towards optimum pregnancy outcomes are some of the tools to reduce the incidence of caesarean section. A Blissful Pregnancy Program is designed to address women’s concerns about pregnancy, alleviate fears and create a positive mind frame to have a healthy and happy pregnancy.”A panel of experienced Obstetricians & Gynaecologists including Dr. Sowmya Raghavan, Dr. Janani Iyer, Dr. Rajsri J Shankar, Dr. Amudha Hari, Dr. Karthiga Devi, Dr. Nithya Babukumar and Dr. Dhivyambigai came together to discuss the various topics on normal delivery, Vaginal Birth after C section, Importance of a support team of anaesthetist & neonatologist for better outcomes followed by an interesting panel discussion on “Debunking myths in pregnancy”.  

“My dear friend, life is not about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about dancing in the rain. Likewise, you bounce back with that energy to fight for anything come what may.” This was one of the 100 letters written by students of Vidya Mandir Senior Secondary School, Mylapore, Chennai, to cancer patients who are getting treated at the Apollo Proton Cancer Centre (APCC).On receiving the letter from one of the students, 55-year-old Mr. S. Nambiar’s eyes welled up with tears of joy. He said, “This is a very kind gesture and it brought back many old memories.”In this modern age, written communication is mostly done either through emails, WhatsApp messages or other social media interactions, but there’s always a special joy in receiving a letter from near and dear ones and more so, from a stranger. To evoke the feeling of happiness in receiving a letter and to build a strong bond of friendship, APCC in collaboration with Vidya Mandir Senior Secondary School, Mylapore, has launched a unique initiative called ‘The Warriors’ Smile’ wherein students write encouraging and affectionate letters to patients undergoing cancer treatment. The activity will be organised every month in line with Apollo Cancer Centres’ initiative of ‘Tender Loving Care’.It is aimed at adding compassion and positivity into the lives of cancer warriors so that they can stay strong in their journey to win over cancer.Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Harshad Reddy, Director – Operations, Group Oncology & International, Apollo Cancer Centres, said, “Apollo has always been synonymous with the best-in-class treatment and defined the level of excellence in every initiative. From creating awareness among the masses about cancer, bringing cancer conversations to the forefront, and prioritizing patients at every step of the treatment, Apollo has created a world of its own built on the foundation of Tender Loving Care. I take pride in this initiative and the positive impact it is destined to create on patients today and tomorrow.”On the occasion, Mr Harish Trivedi, Chief Executive Officer, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, said, “This unique initiative ‘The Warriors’ Smile’, aligned with our mission of providing our patients with the best possible care, is bound to have a profound impact on their motivation and strength. It is splendid how some gentle words and caring actions can create ripples of soothing the worst of pains in the hardest times. I would also like to thank Vidya Mandir Senior Secondary School, Mylapore, for associating with us for this encouraging step towards promoting happiness and liveliness.”With a motto of promoting a light and happy environment for the cancer warriors, this initiative stands true to the cause of keeping the patients calm and persuade them to go strong on their journey of healing.

Over 70 hearing impaired girls benefit from the project, since its launch by IPL Sunrisers HyderabadMay 3rd, 2018: IPL Sunrisers team members, Rashid Khan, Carlos Brathwaite, Sandeep Sharma, Siddarth Kaul and Tom Moody, joined the celebration of over 70 hearing impaired girls benefitting from the ‘Hearing Impaired Girl Child Project’ (HIGCP), initiated by Apollo Hospitals & SAHI, three years ago, on Thursday at Apollo Medical College, Jubilee Hills. The project was incidentally launched by the Sunrisers team in 2015. Also present on the occasion were Dr. Sangita Reddy, Ms. Upasana Kamineni & ENT Surgeons Dr. EC Vinaya Kumar, Dr. K Rambabu, Dr. Jaswinder Singh and other consultants. The IPL team members later interacted with the girls, besides playing cricket with them.  As per WHO estimates, approximately 63 million people suffer from significant hearing impairment every year in India. 4-5 babies in every 1000 born suffer from severe to profound hearing loss in India. If left untreated in the first 3-5 years of life, these children end up with hearing and speech disorders throughout their lifetime.HIGCP has been helping hearing impaired girls under the age of fifteen, by providing the state-of-the-art Cochlear implant and performing the surgery, free of cost. HIGCP bears the entire cost of approximate Rs. 8 lakhs per child. The one-year Auditory Verbal Therapy required Post-surgery, is funded by Pink Crocodile, an international NGO.We have a strong rationale to focus on the girl child for this project, says Dr E.C. Vinay Kumar, Head, Dept. of ENT, Apollo Health City and Secretary, SAHI. The reasons are varied, a hearing-impaired girl is at a greater risk of facing abuse both physically and mentally. Historically too, the needs of a female child is often neglected by parents and the prohibitive cost of treatment only inhibits them, they instead prefer to divert their limited resources to address their son’s aspirations. Also, a hearing and speech impaired girl is in greater danger of remaining unemployed, unmarried or being ill-treated at her in-law’s place, he adds.Cochlear Implant Surgery will empower a hearing-impaired girl child, help her evolve into a respectable citizen, besides enabling her to achieve her dreams and ambitions. She will be able to live life on her own terms, says Dr Rambabu, ENT Surgeon, Apollo Health City & Director Medical Services, SAHI.About Society to Aid the Hearing Impaired (SAHI)In November of 2004, a group of ENT surgeons, audiologists, and hospital management personnel, united with concerned citizens, to form SAHI. It is an Indian NGO that aims at helping underprivileged children with impaired hearing. SAHI mainly seeks to identify and aid children living in rural areas, with little or no access to modern medical treatment.Since its establishment, SAHI has been addressing this problem by means of conducting camps in remote areas of the state. Children with learning disabilities or hearing loss are given hearing aids by SAHI and those with ear diseases are given free ear surgeries.About Apollo HospitalsIt was in 1983, that Dr.Prathap Reddy made a pioneering endeavour by launching India’s first corporate hospital – Apollo Hospital in Chennai. Now, as Asia largest and most trusted healthcare group, its presence includes 8,488 beds across 51 Hospitals, 1,586 Pharmacies, 92 Primary Care and Diagnostic Clinics, 100 Telemedicine units across 10 countries. Health Insurance services, Global Projects Consultancy, 15 colleges of Nursing and Hospital Management and a Research Foundation with a focus on global Clinical Trials, epidemiological studies, stem cell & genetic research and the first Proton Therapy Centre across Asia, Africa and Australia.In a rare honour, the Government of India issued a commemorative stamp in recognition of Apollo’s contribution, the first for a healthcare organization. Apollo Hospitals Chairman, Dr.Prathap C Reddy, was conferred with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan in 2010. For more than 28 years, the Apollo Hospitals Group has continuously excelled and maintained leadership in medical innovation, world-class clinical services and cutting-edge technology. Our hospitals are consistently ranked amongst the best hospitals globally for advanced medical services and research.   

Hyderabad, April 7th, 2018: The two-day urology Conference – LUT 2018, on Functional Lower Urinary Tract Disorders, jointly organised by Apollo Hospitals and Hyderabad Urology Society, was inaugurated at the at the Apollo Medical College Auditorium, today. Dr Sanjay Sinha, Consultant Urologist, Apollo Hospitals and the Organising Secretary of LUT 2018 and Prof PVLN Murthy, President, Hyderabad Urological Society, were present on the occasion. Over 200 Urologists from all over India are attending the Conference.The Conference will focus on Functional Lower Urinary Tract disorders which are most common including Urinary Incontinence (control problems), voiding difficulty, prostate disorders, bladder pain and overactive bladder. About 10% of the population has problems of overactive bladder or OAB and Prostate problems are very common in the elderly men, says Dr Sanjay Sinha.World-renowned authority on Lower Urinary Tract Functional Problems and recipient of the ICS Lifetime Achievement Award, Prof Paul Abrams from the Bristol Urological Institute, is the lead faculty at the Conference. Other key faculty include Prof Ganesh Gopalakrishnan, former President of the Urological Society, Dr Kalyan Sarkar from Kolkata, Dr Anita Patel from Mumbai and Dr Shirish Yande from Pune.