Tag: Diabetes

Avocado: The Green Ally in the Fight Against Diabetes

In honour of World Diabetes Day on 14 November 2023, the World Avocado Organization is putting the limelight on a powerful ally for those looking to reduce their risk of disease – the avocado.

In a world inundated with processed foods laden with excessive sugars, salts, and artificial additives, rates of diabetes across the world have been rising over the past decades link. While sugary processed foods can contribute to health issues such as diabetes, avocados, in contrast, are a natural fruit packed with essential nutrients that help improve health. Avocados are the perfect go-to choice for those looking to lower their intake of unhealthy foods and make their diet more green and nutritious.

Here’s why:

They Are A Nutrient Powerhouse

Half an avocado contains just 114 calories but it is jam-packed with vital vitamins and minerals – making it a very nutrient-dense food. On top of this, they contain hardly any sugar or salt and have a low glycaemic index (GI), meaning that they are the perfect match for those who need to watch their blood sugar levels. The World Health Organization recommends a healthy diet with low sugars and saturated fats to reduce the risk of diabetes. Adding this fruit as a topping on a salad, chopping it up and enjoying it as a snack or creating exciting avocado-based recipes – this fruit
ensures that you get your boost of nutrients and contains monounsaturated fats that help to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of diseases such as diabetes.

They Can Improve Your Heart Health
Those suffering from diabetes have a higher risk of heart disease, and avocados have been associated with numerous heart-healthy benefits. Thanks to the large amount of monounsaturated fats they contain, avocados can help reduce LDL cholesterol levels in the blood which can lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.

A 2023 study in the US showed that in some populations a significant link has been noticed between eating avocados and lower rates of Type 2 diabetes in adults. Also, a study published by the Journal of the American Heart Association found that eating one avocado a day for six months could lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. This shows that avocados are a great ally for anyone looking to manage diabetes or improve their heart health.

Avocado: The Green Ally in the Fight Against Diabetes

They Can Increase Satiety
One of the main causes of Type 2 diabetes is being overweight or obese. The World Health Organization recommends maintaining a healthy weight to prevent or delay the onset of Type diabetes. One way to curb heightened appetite is to eat healthy fibrous foods that make you feel fuller for longer, and just half an avocado contains a whopping 4.6 grams of fibre. Furthermore, research has shown that avocados can increase satiety and aid weight management. Another study also revealed that adding half an avocado to a standardised meal led to a remarkable 40% decrease in the desire to eat over the three hours following the meal compared to those who consumed the same meal without avocado.

Make the healthier choice and choose the avocado over foods that are processed or contain saturated fats, such as butter, red meat and sugary snacks. Avocados are nutrient-dense, high in healthy fats and can contribute to your overall health as well as lower the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and high blood sugar or cholesterol.

Grace Cancer Run Get Ready for the Race Date and Theme Revealed by CP Cyberabad

Early detection is the only way forward to tackle Cancer: Commissioner of Police, Cyberabad

Cyberabad, 11th July 2024 – The much-anticipated Quambiant Global Grace Cancer Run 2024 by the Grace Cancer Foundation is set to take place, bringing together thousands of participants to raise awareness and funds for cancer research and screening.

It is the World’s largest Cancer awareness run being organized in partnership with HYSEA, SCSC (Society for Cyberabad Security Council), and many other organizations. Avinash Mohanty, the Commissioner of Police unveiled the Race Date, Theme, and Commencement of Registrations at a function held on Wednesday evening at Cyberabad Police Commissionerate at Gachibowli.

The run is to be held on 6th October, with more than 1 lakh participants from across 130 countries through Physical and Virtual Modes expected to participate.

This year’s theme, “Run for Grace Screen for Life,” highlights the importance of early detection and preventive measures in the fight against cancer.

Speaking on the occasion the Chief Guest Shri Avinash Mohanty said, “I am honoured to support the Grace Cancer Run 2024. Together, we can make a difference and save lives through awareness and early detection.”

Speaking further he said there is hardly any family without getting suffered from Cancer. It is so prevalent now. It not only affects families medically and psychologically but also ruins them financially. Early detection is the best way to contain it. Grace Cancer is reaching out to those people who don’t have access to early detection. Which is very commendable. It is a great service to humanity, he added

We are honoured to have the Chief Guest, Shri. Avinash Mohanty IPS, Commissioner of Police, Cyberabad. His presence underscores the significance of community involvement and support in our collective battle against cancer, said Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli, Senior Consultant Robotic Surgical Oncologist and the Founder of GRACE (Global Research and Cancer Education) Cancer Foundation.

The Race Categories are 2k Walk, 5k Fun Run & 10k (timed run). It will be held at Gachibowli Stadium, Hyderabad. For registrations, please visit the website – www.gracecancerrun.com and register online.

Speaking more, Dr Chinnababu said, the Grace Cancer Run is more than just a race; it is a movement dedicated to saving lives through awareness, education, and early detection. By participating, you contribute to vital cancer screening programs and research initiatives.

We want to see a world where there is no cancer. There are four health problems responsible for nearly 80% of deaths in India. And they are Cancer, Heart, Lung and Diabetes, he said. With the funds generated from the Run, we have screened 40,000 poor, rural populations. This year we aim to screen one lakh people free of cost. As a Cancer surgeon, I know the pain. I work full time on this cause and work as a doctor, part-time for my living, he said.

I have seen two problems in fighting cancer. One is poor awareness and the second is lack of access to early detection. We started the run with 5000 people about six years ago. Last year we touched one lakh people. This year we would like to cross, he said.

Ramesh Kaza, Secretary General of the SCSC, said his mother suffered from cancer and could not save her as she was diagnosed very late. People who go through the pain of their family member suffering from Cancer will only know their pain

Speaking further he said it is very strange to hear from a cancer specialist saying that he is on a mission to eliminate cancer, which in other words eliminates his job, but still, he doesn’t bother much. It is very nice of a doctor to say this.

Prashant Nandella, President of HYSEA (Hyderabad Software Enterprises Association) said diagnosis and detection are very important. That is only possible by creating awareness. Grace Foundation has saved many lives by cancer screening. HYSEA with so many IT employees can amplify their efforts to save more lives.

Krupakar Reddy, Race Director said that they were aiming to surpass the previous record number of participants. He also said each of the three categories of run has its own set of thrills and urged large numbers to participate and join in the same.

Network18 launches Phase 2 of the Netra Suraksha Initiative – India Against Diabetes

Network18 has launched Phase 2 of the Netra Suraksha Initiative – India Against Diabetes. The 3-month long initiative is committed to protecting the eyes of the loved ones of India’s Defense Forces. The initiative was flagged off at the launch event held in Dharamshala BSF War Memorial, Kutch, Gujarat on 14th June 2022.

Hon’ble Smt. Dr. Nimaben Acharya, Speaker, Gujarat Assembly was the chief guest at the event. Besides, Mr. Sanjay Srivastav, DIG, BSF, Kachchh Sector, Mr. Sanjay Avinash – Commandant, 74 Battalion BSF, Mr. Yashvir Hooda – Officiating Commandant 3 Battalion BSF, Mr. Saurabh Singh, IPS, Superintendent of Police, Bhuj, Ms. Vaishali Iyer, Country Head, Communications and CSR, Novartis India, Dr. Manisha Agarwal, Head of Vitreoretina & Clinical Research Services at Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital, New Delhi, Secretary of VRSI, and Mr. Rito Maitra, Co-founder of Radical Health graced the event amidst other dignitaries.

Joining the event virtually, Dr. Mahipal Sachdev, Chairman & Medical Director of Centre for Sight Group of Eye Hospitals, and Dr. Vijay Viswanathan, National Vice President, RSSDI shared insights on the Diabetic Retinopathy and urged people to go for early detection.

The event successfully flagged off the Netra Suraksha awareness camp. Mr. Sanjay Avinash – Commandant, 74 Battalion BSF inaugurated the testing facility at the location, and Mr. Yashvir Hooda – Officiating Commandant 3 Battalion BSF along with Mr. Saurabh Singh, IPS, Superintendent of Police, Bhuj were the first ones to get their eyes tested. The event also hosted panel discussions on raising awareness around Diabetes & Eye Health: Timely Prevention & Need for Cohesive Policy Change.

Hon’ble Smt. Dr. Nimaben Acharya, Speaker, Gujarat Assembly, said “I congratulate the team of Network18 to start this campaign from the border. Netra Suraksha is very important for BSF Jawans. Diabetes is a hidden enemy and people need to do regular check-ups to find out whether they have diabetes and need to be cautious of its adverse effect on the eyes.”

She further added, “Prevention is better than cure. Diabetes is not completely curable, it is a chronic disease, but timely treatment and preventive measures can surely help in avoiding the severe complications of diabetes, and Diabetic Retinopathy is the one among those.”

India is home to as many as 70 million diabetes patients and every one of them is at the risk of Diabetic Retinopathy impacting the vision and eventually leading to blindness. The discussion highlighted the fact that majority of the people are unaware of diabetes and its complications. However, it is a preventative disease and calls for early detection. If not treated timely, it could lead to blindness. The early stage of Diabetic Retinopathy is a-symptomatic. If the timely and early check-ups are done then one can avoid the severe loss of vision.

Mr. Sanjay Srivastav, DIG, BSF, Kachchh Sector said “This is an excellent initiative. Serving in the Kutch region is very difficult due to severe temperature, and scorching sunlight also impacts eye health. Diabetic Retinopathy leads to blindness and it is important to be aware of eye health and preventive measures. If our soldiers are aware of it then only, they can protect their eyes and can give the best service. Soldiers must get their eyes tested every 2 to 3 months. As our jawans are far away from their families, it’s every individual’s duty at home to ensure eye checkups for family members and go for prevention measures.”

Standing tall in various grueling locations and conditions, the Defense Forces are doing immense service in protecting the country. In an endeavor to serve the families of these brave hearts by protecting their eyes, the initiative is aimed at caring for the families of those who protect us. The initiative drives awareness of Diabetic Retinopathy and avoidable blindness and urges family members of the armed forces to get their eyes checked every six months to a year by a Retinologist.

Puneet Singhvi, CEO-Digital & President-Corporate Strategy, Network18 Group, said “Our soldiers put their heart, body, and soul into protecting the country and its citizens. We are extremely proud of our defense forces and equally of their families. Thus, phase 2 of the Netra Suraksha initiative is devoted to the families of defense personnel. It is a small gesture from our end to the families of soldiers serving our country day and night. Through them, we wish to encourage the masses to adopt regular eye check-ups and be aware of the eye disorders related to diabetes.”

Families of Indian soldiers take great pride in their army men for their fighting spirit in any odd case scenario, they are also advised to equally take care of themselves as they can lead by example and inspire people across the country to get themselves regularly tested to save their vision from Diabetic Retinopathy.

Ms. Vaishali Iyer, Country Head, Communications and CSR, Novartis India said – “At Novartis, it is our purpose to improve and extend people’s lives by reimagining medicines. This chapter of “Netra Suraksha” is of utmost importance as it is dedicated to our defense forces and their families. We are happy to have partnered with Network18 for this much-needed initiative, launched by them last year. A movement such as this needs the collective force of several stakeholder groups including the Government, Medical associations like VRSI and RSSDI, Media, Diagnostic and healthcare providers. And it is truly heartening to see that Netra Suraksha has garnered the support of each of these groups. With this shared purpose of raising awareness about Diabetic Retinopathy, I am confident that people living with Diabetes will get their eyes tested regularly.”

The 3-month-long initiative intends to spread awareness message across the country. The eye test screening would be conducted across the length and breadth of the country, especially for the Jawans and their families.

BeatO launches TVC to raise awareness for diabetes control with experts

BeatO- a digital app-based platform that provides clinically proven, comprehensive diabetes care programs to prevent, control, and reverse diabetes has launched its first ‘real life, real impact’ TVC campaign. The campaign is based on BeatO ‘Unbeatables’, which are true stories of members proudly sharing their journey of bringing their sugar levels and related health conditions in control with BeatO experts.
Gautam Chopra, Co-founder, and CEO of BeatO

This TVC is the first – of – its – kind, where the protagonists Vijay & Rishabh are based on real-life people, who have bravely chosen to inspire others with their success in bringing diabetes in control with experts through the BeatO app. A strong drive and making simple changes in their diet & lifestyle are the common sentiments amongst them.

The campaign aims at raising awareness about measures that can help one control diabetes and reduce health complications.

The series of videos have been published on television news channels as well as on social media platforms. The TVC showcases real-life stories* of actual BeatO members and how BeatO’s experts – Diabetes Care Coaches and Doctors have constantly supported them through their journey to achieve control over Diabetes and be able to live their life to the fullest.

TVC 1- Vijay:

TVC 2- Rishabh:

Commenting on the new TVC campaign and the need to bring awareness around diabetes Gautam Chopra, Co-founder, and CEO of BeatO said, “ Diabetes and pre-diabetes affect more than 200 million Indians and India’s national average HbA1c is 8.5%, which is much higher than normal. While so many people are affected by this condition there is still a lack of awareness about diabetes, its related complications & access to experts, and affordable quality care. With this campaign, we wish to raise awareness that with the right expert guidance one can control diabetes and reduce risk of future complications.”

With over 1 million members, from over 3000 towns and cities across India, BeatO helps its users achieve clinically proven, positive health impact through its program. The program includes the innovative Smartphone Glucometer, expert guidance via the BeatO App from leading diabetologists, diabetes care coaches, and nutritionists plus engaging learning resources. This has helped members control and even reverse diabetes in addition to improving related health complications. BeatO affectionately calls such members the ‘Unbeatables’. They are the inspiration behind the BeatO TVC that is based on real-life case studies of BeatO members.

The clinical results of these programs have been published in prestigious forums like the American Diabetes Association & Advanced Technologies & Treatment for Diabetes and show that BeatO’s approach reduces hypoglycemia incidents by 51.9% and average fasting blood glucose by nearly 10% in just 45 days respectively. Additionally, we observe that on average, BeatO members with uncontrolled sugar levels, are able to reduce their HbA1c by 1.9% points within 3 months.

Exalta launches the Mini ventilator with inbuilt oxygen concentrator

Since Covid-19 has arrived, the major issue faced by people is decreasing the oxygen level. This virus gives a direct impact on the lungs of a person, a person faces issues to inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide properly. It’s a pure oxygen concentrator that provides 200mm hg of oxygen per minute. Secondly, it’s water-based. You just need to put the water inside and rest it’ll process on its own.

Exalta started working day and night since the day when Covid-19 started spreading rapidly to make equipment in India which helps people to maintain their oxygen level and came up with the Mini ventilator inbuilt oxygen concentrator.

It’s the most amazing fact is that it creates pure oxygen through the water like you see different oxygen concentrator in the market which is based on Normal PSA (Pressure Swing Adsorption), they consist of Pressure exhaust mechanism through which they pass oxygen through normal air with zeolite process.

Zeolite is the process that purifies the air and removes other gases into a compressor. The price ranges from 40, 000 to 50,000/-. Each and every oxygen concentrator are based on the same mechanism and 98% of them are Chinese.

It’s a very effective way to process oxygen through water. If you’ll consume it continuously for 15 minutes, you’ll be able to see the increase in oxygen level, flow rate, P.I. (Perfusion Index) level, and other functions in the body. It also helps in treating health problems like Alzheimer’s, Diabetes, toxicity, and many others because when your body starts getting proper oxygen these issues start getting resolved.

On the launch, Mrs. Monika Singh, Director Exalta said, “This product works as an Oxygen concentrator, Compressed Oxygen, and Mini Ventilator which is 100 % made in India with no foreign components used.. We’re calling it a Mini Ventilator because it can provide you with the oxygen at the pressure of 200mm Hg to the lungs. Which can act as a ventilator at your home. It’s portable, handy, and easy to carry.”

The main motive was to get effective Indian products at very affordable prices. One can keep this portable ventilator at their homes too so people don’t need to visit the hospital at the time of the emergency, they can be rescued at home itself. Cities like Delhi, Noida, and many more where the oxygen level in the air is very low. What will you do? It won’t be able to compress the air and gives quality oxygen to a person.

Screening Test for Children (Ages11 to 18) for Early Detection & Treatment of Hypertension, Cholesterol and Diabetes, Says Experts At Assocham’s ‘Illness To Wellness’ Series

The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), one of the apex trade associations of India concluded the eighth edition of the ‘Illness to Wellness’ series themed ‘Prevention and Management of Hypertension’. The event saw an elite panel of leading cardiologists, hold an active dialogue on hypertension prevalence in India, its risks at the time of COVID-19, its early detection in children and best practices to lead a healthy life free from hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Supported by the hygiene brand SAVLON, the programme, an innovative and comprehensive approach to cascade awareness through wellness campaigns to address preventive healthcare management and to promote health, hygiene, and well-being of people, saw the renowned panellists firstly put forth the commonality of hypertension and how it is showing its presence even in children.

Reflecting on how hypertension is no longer a rich man’s disease but a steady silent killer, Padma Bhushan Dr. T.S. Kler, Chairperson, PSRI Heart Institute said, “Hypertension is currently one of the most common diseases in the world today. It was estimated in 2012 that there are 1.13 billion people with hypertension. In men, only 9.2% of the adult population has hypertension and in females, it was 4.5%. So roughly, more than one-fourth of the world population has hypertension. Two-third of the patients of hypertension are in the lower-middle-income countries. In fact, incidents of hypertension are less in advanced countries like the USA. People say that it is a disease of the rich, but it is not so, rather it is the other way around. Also, almost 95% of hypertension cases are idiopathic hypertension meaning, we do not know the cause of it. Only 5% of cases have some removable cause.”

Elaborating on how children too are prone to hypertension, Dr. Manjinder Sandhu, Director Cardiology & Artemis Cardiac Care said, “It is a big myth that children do not have hypertension, rather a significant number of children do have it. In fact, paediatricians these days routinely check the blood pressure of children. When children or young adults have hypertension, we need to explore secondary causes. This is very important because earlier blood pressure of children would not be checked, and they would go undetected. By the time it was detected, it would have already created a lot of damage in the body due to the constant high pressure exerted.”

He also added that patients of hypertension are not necessarily more prone to contracting COVID-19 or developing severe symptoms but bear the same risks as a healthy person.

Adding to the discussion by focusing on how early detection can help prolong lives, Prof Dr. Raman Puri, Senior Interventional Cardiologist, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital and Chairman, Lipid Association of India said, “If parents have a history of premature coronary artery disease then the child comes at high risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. In such a case, the cholesterol test should be done at least at the age of 11 or at least at 18. For children born with a family history of high cholesterol, it can be done as early as 2 years of life. It may seem surprising, but it is the right age to detect. Detecting high cholesterol in the younger age group and bringing it down to a normal range will prolong their life. I request parents to screen their child’s blood sugar and lipid profile at least at ages 18 or 20. Preventable and treatable disorders like high cholesterol, diabetes and hypertension when detected early can make life comfortable and disease-free for these children.”

He further added that cardiovascular mortality in Europe and America has reduced by 50% while in India it has increased by 41%. Almost 40% of those approaching doctors with heart problems are less than 40 years of age and 20% of those dying of heart diseases are less than 40 of age highlighting the high prevalence of coronary artery disease in the country.

The expert panel unanimously agreed that those suffering from hypertension, diabetes and other cardiovascular diseases, can easily bring it under control through regular exercise, weight control and by learning better management of internal and external stress. Regular monitoring and continuation of prescribed medicines can keep these conditions from developing into high-risk factors.

Mr Anil Rajput, Chairman, ASSOCHAM CSR Council, reiterating the prevalence of hypertension and the importance of raising awareness around it said, “It is estimated that over 1.3 billion people worldwide are affected by hypertension. If you do not have it under control, it can lead to several complications. The rise in cases over the decade has been worrisome. Thus, we can see the importance attached to having greater knowledge and awareness about this disease. The most common cause is often pointed to an unhealthy diets such as excessive salt consumption, a diet rich in trans fats and a lower intake of fruits and vegetables. In poor countries, having a balanced and healthy diet becomes an extremely challenging task. Therefore, it is important for people to have ample awareness of the importance of having a healthy lifestyle.”

Dr. Rajesh Kesari, Founder and Director Total Care Control acted as the moderator of the event and raised pertinent questions before the panellists to guide the discussion into a strong knowledge-sharing, myth bursting and information-heavy webinar. His smart manoeuvring of the discussions helped reap health foresight from the veteran cardiologists.