Every year, World Malaria Day is a somber reminder of the collective effort needed to end one of the world's most deadly infectious diseases. Malaria is preventable and curable, yet it kills hundreds of thousands of people every year. This year's theme, "Accelerate the Fight. Save Lives," calls on all of us—governments, health workers, organizations and individuals—to accelerate efforts against the disease.
Understanding Malaria
Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites, transmitted to humans from bites by infective Anopheles mosquitoes. Malaria symptoms like chills, fever, and influenza-like illness will quickly lead to severe complications if not treated.".
Despite the availability of low-cost preventive interventions and diagnostic tools, malaria still endangers over 3 billion people globally, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia, like in India.
Our Commitment
As a health care provider, we are dedicated to:
Creating prevention and early detection awareness of malaria.
Enabling diagnostic and therapeutic services in the impacted communities.
Providing the patients with education regarding the significance of wearing mosquito nets, repellents and hygiene.
Collaborating with public health practitioners in disease surveillance and disease control programs.
Our hospital also promotes the importance of patients getting medical attention early if they have symptoms, particularly after traveling to risk areas.
Progress in India
India has made remarkable progress in reducing the malaria case burden and is poised to significantly contribute to malaria elimination by the year 2030. The efforts coordinated by the National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) and state governments have significantly reduced the disease burden.
But constant efforts and people's involvement are needed to sustain this momentum.
Did You Know?
Under 5 years and women who are pregnant are most susceptible to serious malaria.
Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) identify malaria in minutes so that treatment can be administered promptly.
Urbanization and global warming are major challenges to malaria control.
Join the Fight
Today, on this World Malaria Day, we call upon all to join the global fight against malaria. Whether by raising awareness, taking preventive action, or contributing to community efforts, every effort counts.
Together, we can move towards a malaria-free world. If you or someone you know is showing symptoms of malaria, do not hesitate to seek medical care. Early treatment will be lifesaving. For appointments or inquiries visit doctor booking.
Is Chewing Gum Actually Plastic?
Chewing gum seems innocent enough, but did you know that synthetic plastics are the primary ingredients used to make most gums? The "gum base" used in many of them contains items such as polyethylene, polyvinyl acetate, and butyl rubber—materials that won't degrade and aren't biodegradable. So by chewing gum, we're not only getting our fill of the taste—we're ingesting plastic without even knowing it.
The Study: Microplastics in Your Saliva
Recently a pilot study proved surprising and frightening information: the chewed gum is able to discharge microplastic particles in saliva. When chewing, according to researchers' finding, about an average of 100 particles per gram is emitted from gum with up to 637 from the most heavily polluted samples. Mostly these microplastics escape after a couple of minutes or at most remain inside the mouth as well as can be swallowed.
This pioneering study is among the first to actually quantify microplastics entering the human body via chewing gum—a casual activity we all do daily.
Health & Environmental Risks
Microplastics have already been associated with possible health issues like hormonal imbalance, inflammation, and cell damage. Although further studies are necessary to fully realize the long-term implications of chewing gum-based microplastics, the fact that we might be consuming plastic on a regular basis should not be dismissed.
Environmentally, the effect is even more apparent. More than 1.74 trillion pieces of chewing gum are manufactured worldwide annually, many of which become street litter and sidewalk trash. These used gums ultimately disintegrate into microplastics, which cause widespread pollution.
The Way Forward: Eco-Friendly Gum Alternatives
There is good news too—some brands have now created plastic-free chewing gum made from natural ingredients such as chicle, a tree sap. They are biodegradable and far healthier for our bodies and the planet.
We can do our part as consumers by:
Reading labels on chewing gum products before we buy
Selecting brands that employ natural gum base
Helping companies that are honest about what they put in their products
Final Thoughts
Chewing gum may appear to be a little habit, but this new study reveals it can have surprising effects on our health and the planet. Since we're becoming increasingly aware of the secret microplastics in the things we use, it's time to reconsider what we put in our mouths—beginning with gum.
We at B. P. Poddar Hospital & Medical Research Limited pride ourselves in creating awareness of diseases that are not typically accorded the importance they deserve. Alport Syndrome—a genetic disease of the kidneys, ears, and eyes—is a disease like that. With Alport Syndrome Awareness Month being observed, we want to inform and empower our people to observe the symptoms in time and seek proper medical assistance.
What is Alport Syndrome?
Alport Syndrome is an inherited disorder resulting from mutations in the genes that code for the proteins of collagen production. Collagen is an important protein of the kidney basement membrane, inner ear, and eye. As a result of the defective collagen, Alport Syndrome patients suffer from chronic kidney disease, deafness, and ocular abnormalities.
Symptoms and Early Warning Signs
Identifying the symptoms early on can contribute a lot towards controlling the condition. Some of the most prevalent signs of Alport Syndrome are:
Blood in Urine (Hematuria): One of the very first and longest-standing of all the symptoms, usually appearing during childhood.
Protein in the Urine (Proteinuria): A sign of kidney damage, leading to swelling of legs, feet, and eyelids.
Hearing Loss: Typically develops in late childhood or adolescence, bilateral.
Abnormalities of the eyes: Lenticonus (conical lens) and fleck retinopathy are frequent but not necessarily threatening to vision.
Progressive Kidney Failure: Kidney function will become worse if left untreated and lead to CKD and eventual kidney transplant or dialysis.
Why Alport Syndrome Awareness Matters
Since Alport Syndrome is a rare disease, it is most commonly mistaken for other kidney diseases. Awareness makes it possible for patients with a family history of kidney disease to be provided with genetic tests and early screening. Early detection postpones the disease's progress through modification of lifestyle, medication, and medical tests.
Treatment and Management
Alport Syndrome has no cure at the moment, but thanks to advancements in medicine, it has been possible to treat the disease successfully:
ACE Inhibitors & ARBs: They block the kidneys from losing function and delay the development of kidney failure.
Routine Hearing and Eye Tests: Early detection of hearing and vision loss enables treatment.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices: A low-sodium diet, proper fluid intake, and avoidance of nephrotoxic medications can help protect kidney function.
Kidney Transplant: In those progressing to end-stage kidney disease, the ideal choice is a kidney transplant. The Role of B. P. Poddar Hospital in Alport Syndrome Treatment
Our goal at B. P. Poddar Hospital & Medical Research Limited is to provide cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment facilities for genetic kidney diseases. Our nephrologists are trained to provide special care, genetic counseling, and customized treatment programs for patients with Alport Syndrome.
Join the Awareness Campaign
This Alport Syndrome Awareness Month, we encourage everyone to act positively:
Promote awareness of the condition.
Get family members with kidney disease to have genetic screening.
Facilitate research work for improved treatments.
If you or a relative is experiencing any of the symptoms of Alport Syndrome, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Early treatment can make life easier. To learn more or make an appointment with our experts, visit doctor booking or call us at +91 62922 35652. Join hands to promote healthy kidneys and spread awareness!
Holi, known as the festival of colours, is one of the most vibrant and joyous celebrations. Marking the arrival of spring, it brings people together through lively music, bright colours, and festive gatherings. The festival signifies the victory of good over evil and is a time for bonding with family, friends, and the community.
The Spirit of Holi
Holi holds a deep cultural and spiritual significance. The festival encourages unity, forgiveness, and renewal of relationships. As people drench each other in colours, the barriers of age, status, and background fade away, fostering love and togetherness.
Celebrating Holi Safely and Responsibly
While Holi is a time for fun and excitement, it’s essential to celebrate responsibly to ensure everyone’s safety and well-being.
DOs for a Joyful and Safe Holi
Use Natural Colours: Choose eco-friendly and organic colours that are gentle on the skin and environment.
Protect Your Skin and Hair: Applying coconut oil or moisturizer beforehand can prevent colours from sticking to your skin.
Wear Comfortable Clothing: Opt for full-sleeved clothes and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay energetic throughout the festivities.
Respect Others: Always ask for consent before applying colours to someone.
DONTs to Avoid Risks
Avoid Harmful Chemicals: Stay away from synthetic colours that can cause skin irritation or allergies.
Don’t Waste Water: Celebrate responsibly by reducing water wastage.
Avoid Forceful Colour Application: Be mindful of people who may not wish to participate in colour play.
Be Careful with Food and Drinks: Avoid consuming unknown food or drinks to prevent discomfort or intoxication.
Don’t Drink and Drive: First and foremost, avoid any sorts of intoxicating agents. If at all you've consumed festive beverages like ‘bhang’ or alcohol, totally avoid driving or operating any machinery for everyone's safety.
Spreading Happiness and Harmony
Holi is not just about colours but about celebrating love, joy, and positivity. By being mindful of safety and respect, we can create beautiful memories while ensuring everyone’s well-being.
Wishing you a bright, colourful, and safe Holi from B.P. Poddar Hospital!
The recent fluctuations in weather patterns have had a significant impact on respiratory health. Sudden temperature changes, shifting humidity levels, and increased airborne pollutants have contributed to a rise in respiratory infections and related complications.
As the weather transitions, especially between winter and spring or monsoon to autumn, our body’s immune system often becomes more vulnerable. The protective mechanisms of the respiratory tract, such as mucus production and cilia movement, may be compromised, making it easier for viruses and bacteria to enter the system. This results in a surge of common respiratory conditions like cold, flu, bronchitis, and sinusitis. Additionally, individuals with pre-existing conditions such as asthma, COPD, and allergic rhinitis often experience worsened symptoms during these seasonal shifts.
A notable factor contributing to this spike is the increase in pollen, dust, and airborne irritants. These allergens, coupled with changing humidity levels, can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory distress. Moreover, viral infections tend to spread rapidly in fluctuating temperatures, especially in crowded indoor settings. The increased use of heaters, air conditioners, and closed indoor spaces during these periods can further circulate germs, exacerbating respiratory issues.
Vulnerable Groups at Higher Risk
Certain groups are more susceptible to weather-induced respiratory problems. Children, elderly individuals, and those with chronic conditions are particularly vulnerable. In children, their developing immune systems may struggle to cope with the sudden weather changes. Meanwhile, older adults often experience reduced lung capacity and a slower immune response, making them prone to severe infections.
Dietary Precautions for Seasonal Changes
During seasonal transitions, particularly in and around Kolkata, maintaining a healthy diet can significantly enhance your immune system and respiratory health. Foods rich in vitamin C such as oranges, amla, and guava help boost immunity. Including ginger, turmeric, and honey in your daily diet can provide natural anti-inflammatory benefits.
Warm fluids like herbal tea, soups, and lukewarm water can soothe the throat and reduce mucus buildup. Consuming foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as flaxseeds and walnuts, may help reduce inflammation. Additionally, avoiding cold and oily foods during this period can prevent irritation of the respiratory tract.
Preventive Measures for Better Respiratory Health
To protect yourself from seasonal respiratory issues, it's crucial to adopt preventive measures. Staying hydrated, practicing good hand hygiene, and wearing masks in polluted environments can reduce the risk of infections. For those with respiratory conditions, maintaining prescribed medications, using air purifiers, and avoiding known allergens are essential. Additionally, a balanced diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants can help strengthen your immune system.
Incorporating lifestyle habits like regular exercise, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can also improve lung function and build resilience against seasonal triggers. Keeping your living spaces clean, ensuring proper ventilation, and frequently washing linens can help reduce the presence of allergens indoors.
When to Seek Medical Help
If you experience persistent cough, wheezing, chest tightness, or breathlessness during weather transitions, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider promptly. Ignoring these symptoms may lead to severe complications, especially for those with underlying conditions. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further deterioration and ensure better respiratory health throughout seasonal changes.
In conclusion, while weather changes are inevitable, taking proactive steps to strengthen your immune system and protect your respiratory tract can significantly reduce the risk of infections. By staying informed and following preventive measures, you can safeguard yourself and your loved ones against seasonal respiratory challenges.
DIPHTHERIA often spreads through the air. Fever, throat discomfort, and neck swelling are the symptoms. Breathing difficulties may develop in severe situations. It can result in heart failure and paralysis days after the infection. The majority of reported cases of diphtheria worldwide are in India.
Whooping cough, also known as PERTUSSIS, is an airborne illness. Coughing follows, and it lasts for 4-6 weeks. Extreme coughing fits can make it difficult to breathe and to eat or drink. All age groups are susceptible, with very young newborns suffering the most severe effects. It may result in mortality, pneumonia, seizures, or brain damage.
Contaminated wounds can lead to TETANUS, which can also develop in a newborn after risky delivery procedures. It is commonly referred to as "lockjaw" because it produces excruciating muscular spasms and the difficulty to swallow.
The DPT vaccination guards against tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough (pertussis).
AVAILABILITY
DPT (Triple antigen), DPT/Hib (Quadrivalent), DPT/HBV/Hib (Pentavalent), and DPT/HBV/Hib/IPV (Hexavalent) are the combinations of these vaccinations that are available. Some vaccines intended for use in adults and children older than 7 years old combine a full dose of tetanus with a reduced dose of components for diphtheria and pertussis. These are, respectively, the Tdap and Td vaccines.
SCHEDULE OF DPT VACCINES
Three doses are given at 6-10-14 weeks of age in the first year, one booster at 16-18 months in the second year, and two boosters at 4-6 years of age. They are given in conjunction with Hepatitis B, Hib, and IPV vaccinations that are age-appropriate.
At 10 to 12 years old, adolescents should also receive one dose of the Tdap vaccine.
After then, Td is advised every 10 years.
Every pregnancy should include one dose of Tdap (or, as a backup option, the Td vaccination) administered between weeks 27 and 36.
After skin-breaching wounds or trauma, tetanus prophylaxis with the td vaccination is also employed.
The hepatitis B vaccination can guard against the disease. Hepatitis B is a liver condition that can result in a short-lived, moderate sickness or a severe, chronic condition.
Short-term acute hepatitis B infection symptoms include fever, exhaustion, appetite loss, nausea, vomiting, jaundice (yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, clay-colored stools), and pain in the muscles, joints, and stomach.
When the hepatitis B virus persists in a person's body for an extended period of time, they develop chronic hepatitis B infection. The majority of persons who go on to acquire chronic hepatitis B do not exhibit any symptoms, yet the condition is nonetheless highly hazardous and can result in death, liver cancer, and liver damage (cirrhosis). Even though they do not themselves seem or feel ill, those who have a chronic infection can nevertheless transmit the hepatitis B virus to others.
When blood, semen, or other bodily fluid containing the hepatitis B virus enters the body of a person who is not afflicted, hepatitis B is transmitted. People may get an infection by:
Birth (a pregnant person with hepatitis B risks infecting their unborn child)
Sharing objects like toothbrushes or razors with an infected individual
contact with an infected person's blood or open sores
Sex with a partner who is infected
Sharing syringes, needles, or other drug injection tools
exposure to blood through the use of needles or other sharp objects
The majority of persons who receive the hepatitis B vaccination are permanently immune.
The standard dosage for the hepatitis B vaccination is 2, 3, or 4.
Hepatitis B vaccination for infants should begin at birth, with the final dose given between 6 and 18 months of age. An essential component in stopping children' long-term illnesses and the spread of hepatitis B in the US is the birth dose of the hepatitis B vaccine.
All children and teenagers under the age of 19 who have not received the vaccination yet should do so.
The vaccine is also available for adults who wish to be protected against hepatitis B but have never had a vaccination.
The following individuals are also advised to have the hepatitis B vaccine:
people who have hepatitis B in their sex relationships
People who are sexually active but not in a committed, monogamous relationship Those seeking testing or treatment for an STD
sexual assault or abuse victims
males who interact romantically with other males
People who reside with someone who has the hepatitis B virus People who share needles, syringes, or other drug-injection supplies
Public safety and healthcare employees who may be exposed to blood or bodily fluids
Residents and employees of developmentally handicapped facilities
Those who are incarcerated or in prison Visitors to areas with higher hepatitis B infection rates
People with HIV, hepatitis C, chronic liver disease, and renal disease who are on dialysis
Hepatitis B vaccine can be administered as a standalone injection or as a component of a combination vaccination, which is a form of vaccine that contains multiple shots of different vaccines.
The hepatitis B vaccination may be administered concurrently with other shots.
The varicella-zoster virus (VZV) is the virus that causes chickenpox, a particularly dangerous illness. It results in a rash that resembles blisters, itching, fatigue, and fever. In the past, chickenpox was quite prevalent in the India. About 4 million cases, 10,600 hospitalisations, and 100 to 150 fatalities each year were attributed to chickenpox.
About 90% of people may avoid getting chickenpox after receiving two doses of the vaccination. By being vaccinated, you defend both yourself and other members of your community. For individuals who cannot receive vaccinations, such as those with compromised immune systems or pregnant women, this is particularly crucial.
Even those who have had the chickenpox vaccination occasionally get the illness. But often, it is less severe, with fewer blisters and little to no fever. If you have concerns regarding the chickenpox vaccination, see a healthcare provider.
The CDC advises adults, adolescents, and children to receive two doses of the chickenpox vaccination. The vaccine should be administered to children twice, first between the ages of 4 and 6 years old and again between the ages of 12 and 15 months.
Only those who satisfy particular requirements and in consultation with a TB expert are given the option of receiving BCG in the United States. If medical professionals have any queries regarding BCG vaccination for their patients, they should contact their state's or region's TB control programme.
Children
Children who have had a negative TB test and are regularly exposed to germs should only be considered for the BCG vaccine if they cannot be segregated from adults who have the disease.
Are not being treated for their TB condition or are being treated ineffectively, and the kid cannot get long-term primary preventive therapy for TB infection; or
Have strains of tuberculosis that are rifampin- and isoniazid-resistant.
Health Professionals
Health care providers should be given the BCG vaccine individually in environments where
Infection with TB strains that are resistant to both isoniazid and rifampin affects a large proportion of TB patients;
continuous transfer of drug-resistant TB strains to healthcare personnel increases the risk of further infection;
Although extensive measures to prevent TB infections have been taken, they have not proved effective.
The dangers and advantages of both the BCG vaccine and the treatment of latent TB infection should be discussed with healthcare personnel who are considering becoming vaccinated against BCG.
TB Testing in BCG-Vaccinated Individuals
There are many Indians who were vaccinated against BCG who were born abroad.
A TB skin test may be administered to those who have already received the BCG vaccine to check for TB infection. A BCG vaccination may result in a positive TB skin test outcome. A BCG vaccine or an infection with the TB bacterium may be to blame for a positive result on a TB skin test.
Contrary to TB skin tests, TB blood tests (IGRAs) are unaffected by past BCG vaccination and are not anticipated to provide a false-positive result in BCG recipients.
The TB skin test is favoured over the TB blood test for children under the age of five.
Only the presence of the TB bacterium is revealed by a positive TB skin test or TB blood test. It cannot determine if a person has TB illness or a latent infection. To determine whether a person has TB illness, more tests are required, such as a chest x-ray and a sputum sample.
Today is designated as World Malaria Day. Every year on April 25, people throughout the world observe this day to appreciate the efforts being made to combat malaria. It is an opportunity to emphasise the requirement for ongoing financial support and political commitment to malaria prevention and control. During the 2007 World Health Assembly, WHO Member States established World Malaria Day. Time to deliver zero malaria: Invest, innovate, implement is the theme for this year. The parasites that cause malaria infect female Anopheles mosquitoes, which bite humans to spread the disease. It may be avoided and treated. High fever, chills, headaches, and other flu-like symptoms are among the signs of malaria.
Between 2015 and 2022, India saw a fall in malaria cases of almost 85.1% and a reduction in fatalities of 83.36 %. According to Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister for Health, India was the only high-burden nation in Southeast Asia to record a decrease in malaria incidence in 2020 compared to 2019. This was mentioned by him yesterday in New Delhi during his virtual speech to the Asia Pacific Malaria Leaders Conclave 2023. According to Dr. Mandaviya, the nation is moving quickly towards its goal of eradicating malaria by 2030. Malaria, according to him, is not just a problem for public health, but also a social, economic, and political one that needs the support of all parties involved.
The Union Health Minister emphasised how India has become a global leader for its efforts to eradicate malaria. He continued by saying that the government's numerous health programmes, such as Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, Ayushman Bharat-Health and Wellness Centres, and Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, have a significant positive impact on India's ability to battle disease. In keeping with India's G20 Presidency motto of "One Earth, One Family, One Future," the Minister also stated that New Delhi is dedicated to share its resources, expertise, and lessons learned with other nations in their effort to eradicate malaria.
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