Tag: health

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Start Slow, Stay Consistent, Build a Pain-Free Exercise Habit

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for managing pain, especially in weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips. Exercise, combined with a balanced diet, supports weight management efforts, reducing the strain on these joints and mitigating pain…writes Nupur Patil

Many of us are no strangers to body pain and discomfort. Whether pain is the outcome of a sedentary lifestyle, an injury, or the natural wear and tear of aging, it can significantly impact our quality of life.

While medication and other conventional treatments have their place, one often overlooked yet highly effective approach to pain management is movement. Moving your body has the transformative power to lead a healthier, more pain-free life.

Why is Movement Important in Pain Management?

Strengthening Muscles and Joints

One of the primary benefits of regular physical activity is its ability to strengthen muscles and joints. When you engage in exercises that target specific muscle groups, you enhance their support for your joints. This added support can alleviate pain in areas like the knees, hips, and lower back, making it an excellent strategy for managing chronic pain conditions.

Enhancing Flexibility

Many pain issues stem from stiffness in the joints and surrounding tissues. Movement and stretching exercises can improve the flexibility of the body. Yoga, Pilates, and tai chi are particularly effective for enhancing flexibility while promoting relaxation and stress reduction.

Reducing Inflammation

Inflammation is a common driver of pain in conditions like arthritis. Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce chronic inflammation in the body. Aerobic exercises, such as brisk walking, swimming, and cycling, can help combat inflammation by promoting healthy circulation and immune system function.

Promoting Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for managing pain, especially in weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips. Exercise, combined with a balanced diet, supports weight management efforts, reducing the strain on these joints and mitigating pain.

Releasing Endorphins

Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. These neurochemicals can help combat pain and enhance mood, creating a positive feedback loop that encourages continued physical activity.

Tips to Create an Effective Pain Management Exercise Routine

When incorporating movement into your pain management strategy, it is essential to do so safely and effectively. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Consult a Fitness Expert

Before beginning any new exercise routine, especially if you have chronic pain or underlying medical conditions, consult with a fitness expert. They can offer guidance on suitable exercises and any precautions you should take.

 Be Slow and Steady

If you are new to exercise or have been inactive for a while, start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts. This approach will help prevent injury and minimize pain during your initial sessions. In addition, consistency is key; therefore, aim for regular exercise sessions, even if they are short.

 Pick the Right Activities

Select exercises that are appropriate for your condition and preferences. Low-impact activities like swimming or stationary cycling can be gentler on the joints, making them ideal for those with joint pain.

 Listen to Your Body

Pay close attention to how your body responds to exercise. If a particular movement or exercise exacerbates your pain, stop immediately and consult with a fitness expert for modifications.

The power of movement in pain management cannot be overstated. Exercise has helped countless people struggling with different types of body pain. While it may not be a magic cure, regular physical activity, when approached mindfully and with proper guidance, can be a valuable tool in your pain management toolbox. Remember, pain should never be a barrier to a fulfilling life; instead, it can be a motivator to explore the incredible potential of your body through movement. So, lace up those sneakers, roll out the yoga mat, or dive into the pool – your journey to a pain-free and active life begins with that first step.

ALSO READ-‘Eat better and exercise more’ leads to weight loss

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Food Lite Blogs

Skipping Meals Does More Harm Than Good

While natural and minimally processed sugars like jaggery and honey are healthier alternatives over refined sugars, they still are sugars. Hence, one should watch out for their consumption…reports Asian Lite News

Most of us realise the significance of nutrition in maintaining physical health. However, there are numerous myths about nutrition. As a result, nutritionist Nupuur Patil assists in debunking several myths, making it easier to live a better and happier life.

Myth 1: To lose weight, one should skip meals

Fact: Skipping meals can actually be counterproductive. It often leads to overeating later in the day and may slow down your metabolism, making it harder to lose weight. Focus on having smaller and frequent meals throughout the day and, focus on balanced, portion-controlled meals and healthy snacks throughout the day to maintain a steady metabolism and energy levels.

Myth 2: Eating fats equals gaining weight.

Fact: Unsaturated fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, are beneficial for heart health and overall well-being. These fats can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and decrease the risk of heart disease. However, saturated fats and trans fats, often found in processed foods and fried items, should be consumed sparingly.

Myth 3: Proteins are similar whether from plant or animal sources

Fact: While both animal and plant-based proteins can be part of a healthy diet, they differ in terms of nutrient content. Animal proteins, like meat, poultry, and fish, provide complete proteins with all essential amino acids. Plant-based sources like beans, legumes, nuts, and tofu can also provide ample protein but may require some combination to ensure a complete amino acid profile. A varied diet can help you obtain all the essential nutrients your body needs.

Myth 4: Using honey or jaggery over refined sugar is healthy and one does not need to limit their intake

Fact: While natural and minimally processed sugars like jaggery and honey are healthier alternatives over refined sugars, they still are sugars. Hence, one should watch out for their consumption.

Myth 5: Eating healthy is expensive

Fact: Eating healthy does not require breaking the bank. With careful planning, one can make the most of staple foods like beans, lentils, rice, oats, eggs, seasonal fruits and vegetables. In addition, dining out or ordering takeout can be expensive, and often these options come with larger portion sizes and added unhealthy ingredients. Cooking at home allows you to take charge of ingredients, portion sizes, and costs. Besides, it is an opportunity to experiment with nutritious recipes and flavors.

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Africa CDC to Collaborate with G20 on Global Health Initiatives

African Union.

The Africa CDC said the AU, strongly representing the voice of around 1.4 billion Africans, now stands alongside the European Union as the second continental and regional intergovernmental organization to attain permanent membership in the G20…reports Asian Lite News

The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has said that it would cooperate with the Group of 20 (G20) members on health-related issues.

The Africa CDC, a specialized healthcare agency of the African Union (AU), hailed the decision to grant the AU permanent membership in the G20, Xinhua news agency reported.

“This development signifies Africa’s ascent as a significant player on the world stage, ready to champion causes and concerns of the continent, which is home to the planet’s largest free trade area,” the agency said.

“Per its mandate, and as the continental public health institution for Africa, Africa CDC will represent African countries to the G20 Health Ministers’ Meeting,” the statement read.

The Africa CDC said the AU, strongly representing the voice of around 1.4 billion Africans, now stands alongside the European Union as the second continental and regional intergovernmental organization to attain permanent membership in the G20.

It commended the G20 for its commitment to eliminating hunger and malnutrition, fostering digital ecosystems for health, strengthening global health and implementing the One Health approach. It praised the G20 for strengthening global pandemic prevention, preparedness and response, with strong support for local manufacturing of vaccines, medicines, diagnostics and consumables.

“The Africa CDC is committed to leveraging this new position to advance shared values and advocate for the interests of Africa including in all other multilateral organizations. This is time for Africa to act,” it said.

Earlier on Saturday, the G20 members agreed to grant permanent membership to the AU to make the group more representative. The agreement was reached at the inaugural session of the two-day G20 summit held in the Indian capital of New Delhi during the weekend.

ALSO READ-African Union Becomes Permanent G20 Member

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UK govt upgrades heat-health alert to amber

Heat-health alerts have been upgraded to amber for much of England, with only the North East under a yellow one…reports Asian Lite News

The hottest day of the year is expected in the next two days, with parts of the UK already in heatwave conditions.

Areas of West Yorkshire, Cornwall, Devon and Wales passed the threshold on Tuesday, the Met Office said, although Tuesday’s hottest temperatures did not pass June’s high of 32.2C (90F)

Heat-health alerts have been upgraded to amber for much of England, with only the North East under a yellow one.

It means people of all ages could be affected, putting the NHS at risk.

Met Office meteorologist Amy Bokota said 13 weather stations had officially recorded a heatwave and she expected “a few extra” would be added to that list over the coming days. She said 32C was expected on Wednesday before a possible peak of 33C on Thursday.

“It will then be 32C right the way until Sunday for some places in the south,” she said. Heatwave criteria are met when a location records a period of at least three consecutive days with daily maximum temperatures meeting the heatwave threshold – which varies between 25C and 28C across the UK.

Hot conditions will be also be felt in Wales, while parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland could see “unseasonably high temperatures”. English regions included in the amber warning are: London, the South East, the South West, the East and West Midlands, the East, North West and Yorkshire and Humber. All eight were issued with a yellow warning on Monday but this has now been upgraded.

The North East is the last remaining region to have a yellow alert in place – this means that the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions should take extra care. It also means officials do not believe there will be a significant impact on the NHS in the area.

Temperatures reached 30C on Monday in southern England and south-east Wales, according to the Met Office. The hot weather comes after what has generally been regarded as cool wet summer for much of the UK.

While July in particular was wetter and cooler than average with the maximum temperature failing to regularly reach 20C, the previous month was the UK’s hottest June on record. The warm conditions are continuing through Tuesday, with highs of 31C expected near London.

Parts of southern and western England could also see temperatures stay above 20C overnight into Wednesday, according to the Met.

“We will see good sunny conditions through the week with cloudless skies, and some high temperatures by the time we get to Wednesday and Thursday, where we could see 31, maybe 32C,” Met Office spokesman Oli Claydon told the PA news agency.

He said the high temperatures would be “quite widely spread” across the UK, with the hottest conditions mainly being felt in south-east and central England.

Claydon warned that Wednesday night could be a particularly warm with temperatures potentially not dropping below 20C, which is what is termed a “tropical night”. There could also be a tropical night on Thursday, he said.

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Lifestyle Lite Blogs

Unlocking Wellness: Yogic Techniques for a Calm Morning

A meditative start to the day sets the tone for a serene mindset that can mitigate stress. Maintaining silence, even if only for a few moments, allows the mind to attune itself to the present moment…reports Asian Lite News

The early hours of the day are a special time and the practice of mindful morning habits during this time can do wonders to keep your body and mind free of stress and enhance your wellness. While exercise, meditation, and proper nourishment are well-acknowledged in stress management, there are some wonderful yogic techniques also.

Dr. Hansaji Yogendra, the director of The Yoga Institute shared with IANSlife some morning activities you could bring into your personal routine to nurture your well-being and to set a positive trajectory for the day ahead.

Early Rising 

In India, the auspicious time approximately an hour and a half before sunrise is known as the Brahma Muhurta or the Creator’s Time. It is observed that at this time, our potential to be creative is at its peak. If you want to acquire new knowledge, to sharpen your skills, or even to enhance your health, you must do so in this creative time. In this magical time when the day begins, the universe is like a womb filled with cosmic energy. This energy can be easily absorbed if you are awake at this time. Early rising allows you to start your day with a sense of calmness, setting the stage for a stress-free morning.

Solitude

A tranquil morning provides the space for the cultivation of solitude, a realm where introspection and self-discovery converge. Communing with oneself through practices meditation or reading scriptures nurtures emotional resilience and self-awareness. The sanctuary of solitude nurtures the spirit, fortifying it against the cacophony of the external world’s stresses. A meditative start to the day sets the tone for a serene mindset that can mitigate stress. Maintaining silence, even if only for a few moments, allows the mind to attune itself to the present moment.

Chanting 

Chanting mantras or sacred sounds is a powerful yogic technique that resonates with the body’s energy centers, or chakras. By uttering specific sounds, you can release tension and promote a sense of harmony. The ‘Om’ mantra, for instance, is known for its vibrational qualities that calm the mind and reduce stress. Chanting this mantra during your morning routine can create a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

Jal Neti

Jal neti is cleansing of the nasal passages with water. It stimulates the nerve endings and cools down your brain. Jal neti should be followed by Kapalabhati. Do 30 rounds of kapalabhati to open your energy channels. This practice not only helps clear the sinuses and improve respiratory health but also has a soothing effect on the nervous system, alleviating stress and promoting mental clarity.

Movement

Physical activity, when woven into the fabric of the morning routine, is excellent for stress reduction. Engaging in a session of yoga, a brisk walk, swimming or a team game releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood enhancers. Any exercise in the morning is known to enhance cognitive function and regulate cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone. This brings a balance to your body’s intricate chemistry and fills uplifts your spirits in a state of euphoric well-being.

Journaling

Maintaining a gratitude journal is a powerful morning habit. Take a few minutes each morning to jot down three things you are grateful for. This practice shifts your focus away from stressors and cultivates a positive mindset, setting a harmonious tone for the rest of the day.Cultivating gratitude transmutes stress into serenity. As the morning light bathes the world in its gentle glow, taking a moment to acknowledge the blessings that envelop your life sets a positive perspective. Maintaining a gratitude journal or engaging in daily affirmations kindles a sense of contentment.

Digital Detox

In an age of perpetual connectivity, the quiet morning hours serve as a perfect time to detach from the digital realm. This digital detox window allows for genuine engagement with the self and the physical environment. By keeping away from the inflow of emails, messages, and notifications, you can give your mind the luxury of uninterrupted reprieve. This will help you to reclaimyour mental space and avert the stress that arises from incessant digital interactions.

Mindful Planning

Having a structured plan for the day can forestall stress-induced chaos. Keep a journal to outline tasks, prioritize responsibilities, and establish realistic goals to get a sense of control and organization. With this habit, you can handle responsibilities with poise, while reducing the potential for undue stress.

These practices offer profound benefits that extend beyond mere stress reduction. If you accept these practices with an open heart and a willingness to explore, you can definitely achieve a more peaceful, centered, and stress-free life. Along with these mindful morning habits, you must also have a nourishing breakfast and then start your work. Remember, avoid wasting time, day dreaming, eating, or doing stressful activities in these early hours. Such things will only drain your energies. 

As the morning sun ascends, beckoning the realms of possibility, let the wisdom of yogic precepts and mindful practices lead you to a balanced existence.

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Health Lite Blogs

Maintaining bone health: Recognizing signs of weak bones

Persistent back pain, particularly in the middle or lower back, could be a warning sign of weak bones. As the spine loses its strength, it can lead to spinal fractures, resulting in chronic pain and limited mobility. Identifying…writes Dr. Ashwani Maichand

Strong bones form the foundation of a healthy and active lifestyle, supporting our body’s structure and protecting vital organs. However, as we age, our bones naturally undergo a gradual loss of density, making them more susceptible to fractures and breaks. Bone weakness, or osteoporosis, is a common condition characterized by decreased bone mass and compromised structural integrity. In this article, we will explore the signs that indicate your bones may be weak, empowering you to take proactive steps to maintain bone health and prevent potential complications.

Frequent Fractures:

One of the most apparent signs of weak bones is experiencing frequent fractures or breaks, often from minor injuries or falls. Individuals with weakened bones may find that they suffer fractures more easily and that these injuries may take longer to heal than expected. If you notice an increased vulnerability to fractures, it’s essential to seek a medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause.

Height Loss:

A decrease in height over time can be a sign of weak bones. As bone density diminishes, the vertebrae in the spine may compress, leading to a reduction in height. If you find that you are becoming shorter or notice a change in your posture, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to assess your bone health.

Back Pain:

Persistent back pain, particularly in the middle or lower back, could be a warning sign of weak bones. As the spine loses its strength, it can lead to spinal fractures, resulting in chronic pain and limited mobility. Identifying the cause of the pain and addressing it promptly can help prevent further complications.

Brittle Nails:

Surprisingly, the health of your nails can offer insights into your bone health. Weak and brittle nails may indicate a lack of essential minerals like calcium and vitamin D, which are crucial for bone strength. Paying attention to the condition of your nails can prompt you to address nutritional deficiencies that may be affecting your bone health.

Receding Gums:

Just as bones can weaken, so can the jawbone. Receding gums or loose teeth can be indicative of a weakening jawbone. This may result from periodontal disease or a decrease in bone density in the jaw. Maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing any dental issues promptly can help preserve jawbone health.

Poor Posture:

If you find yourself slouching or having difficulty maintaining good posture, it could be linked to bone weakness. Weakened bones can affect the spine’s alignment, leading to changes in posture and an increased risk of fractures and spinal deformities. Practicing exercises that promote core strength and posture can help alleviate strain on your bones.

Loss of Grip Strength:

A decrease in grip strength may be a subtle sign of weakening bones in the hands and wrists. While it can be attributed to various factors, such as ageing and muscle weakness, it’s essential to consider bone health as a potential contributor. Exercises that target hand and wrist strength can aid in maintaining bone density in these areas.

Recognizing the signs that indicate your bones may be weak is crucial for taking proactive steps to maintain bone health and prevent potential complications like osteoporosis. If you experience any of the mentioned signs or have concerns about your bone health, consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and appropriate guidance. Engaging in regular weight-bearing exercises, maintaining a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and avoiding unhealthy habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can all contribute to maintaining strong and healthy bones throughout your life. Remember, bone health is an integral part of overall well-being and should never be overlooked.

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Ayurveda: A holistic approach to healthy ageing and vitality

Yoga and meditation are used to complement the entire healing process. A very effective technique of meditation used in the treatment is a special candlelight meditation done in a group around a burning candle where everyone gazes at the flame for several minutes as long as possible and prays together…reports Asian Lite News

Life expectancy has increased by three decades since the mid-twentieth century. By 2030, one in five of the world population will be over 65 years old but longevity and old age are often accompanied by a variety of health challenges. Modern medicine has made a great deal of progress in aiding the ease of the ageing process but in order to lead a productive and natural health span, ayurveda has proven to play a very vital role in achieving healthy ageing and vitality.

Ayurveda, one of the world’s most authoritative holistic medicinal institutions offers very effective practices and therapies for healthy aging whilst focusing on holistic health involving physical, mental,emotional,and spiritual well- being. Specially designed and curated treatments at CGH Earth Wellness Experiences focus on prevention, building resilience and an anti-aging regimen to maintain and enhance vitality.

Dr. Jouhar – Ayurveda Doctor at CGH Earth Wellness Experiences said: Ayurveda with its origins in Ancient India,is often translated as the Science of Longevity. It works on the premise that the body is composed of three doshas or energies that need to be in synchronicity. What distinguishes Ayurveda from other medical disciplines is that it focuses on detoxifying, strengthening, and balancing the body and mind.Rasayana Chikitsa, at CGH Earth Ayurveda Centres is a holistic treatment for cleansing, rejuvenation and regeneration of all cells and tissues enhancing an individual’s energy. immunity, and intellect.

In Ayurveda, the concept of anti-aging is described as rasayana, which aims at maintaining excellent physical and mental health through a combination of a nourishing diet, herbal medicine, yoga, meditation, and spiritual practices. Rasayana Chikitsa, a two-week program at CGH Earth Ayurveda centres, involves a cleansing routine to eliminate toxins followed by rejuvenation treatments.Depending on the medical condition and Doshas, the Vaidya will determine the course of cleansing processes. Diet and nutrition are also integral to the treatment and aid with building overall immunity and strength.

Yoga and meditation are used to complement the entire healing process. A very effective technique of meditation used in the treatment is a special candlelight meditation done in a group around a burning candle where everyone gazes at the flame for several minutes as long as possible and prays together. This helps in gaining clarity, peace, and immense positivity. Another significant element of the CGH Earth Ayurvedic treatments is the practice of Satsang which involves listening to or reading the scriptures, reflecting on them, absorbing their meaning, understanding, and discussing the meaning of certain words and integrating their values into one’s daily life. This adds the necessary uplifting edge to the whole recovery process by enhancing positive energy.

Rasayana Chikitsa, a very thoughtfully curated program is only available at CGH Earth Wellness Ayurveda centres in Kerala. Kalari Kovilakom, a 200-year-old palace, is where history meets natural tranquility and Kalari Rasayana is spread over 8 acres of coconut grove land. These stunning living spaces complement the healing process with their nurturing and warm environment and an unobtrusive, quiet adherence to discipline.

So, delay the effects of ageing by committing to holistic health.

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Mobile generation alert: Headphone overuse fuels health issues

The survey revealed a prevalence rate of 3.05 per cent for communication disorders in the Delhi-NCR area, 6.17 per cent in Kashmir and 2.4 per cent in Jammu…reports Asian Lite News

Indiscriminate use of headphones/earphones is pushing a significant number of people, even young children, towards hearing and speech disorders, said a new report on Monday.

The report by the Indian Speech & Hearing Association (Delhi branch) is based on a door-to-door survey across the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) and Jammu & Kashmir on communication disorders.

“The prevalence of communication disorders has increased to more than 3 per cent and their awareness levels remain low at about 11 per cent. Hearing impairment has increased within the 19-25 years age group (41.2 per cent) and the 26-60 years age group (69.4 per cent),” said Dr Rajendra Pratap Gupta, a public health expert and former advisor to the Union Health Minister, at an event held in the national capital on Monday.

“This a wake-up call for the ‘mobile generation’ to stop the indiscriminate usage of headphone/earphones, else, they would soon have to use ‘hearing aids’ instead of ‘headphones’,” he added. 

The survey, held from May to June, included a total of 53,801 individuals from 10,228 families from the Delhi-NCR area and over 6,000 individuals from 1,257 families in Jammu & Kashmir. 

The survey revealed a prevalence rate of 3.05 per cent for communication disorders in the Delhi-NCR area, 6.17 per cent in Kashmir and 2.4 per cent in Jammu.

Further, in Delhi-NCR speech sound disorders (SSD) showed higher prevalence rates in the 6-12 years age group (42.4 per cent) and the 13-18 years age group (31.1 per cent); fluency disorders were more prevalent among those aged 6-12 years (20.7 per cent) and 13-18 years (17.1 per cent); and language disorders exhibited a higher prevalence among ages 0-5 years (69 per cent) and 13-18 years (48.2 per cent). 

The report identifies varying prevalence rates for voice disorders across different age segments, with the highest observed in the 19-25 years age group (17 per cent) and 13-18 years age group (11.6 per cent). 

Vestibular disorders were more pronounced in the 26-60 years age group (8.7 per cent). Multiple communication disorders are most evident in ages 0-5 years (37 per cent) and 6-12 years (33.9 per cent).

In Kashmir, 57.6 per cent of the females and 42.4 per cent of males were identified to have communication disorders, whereas, in Jammu, 66.4 per cent of the male population and 33.6 per cent of the female population were identified with communication disorders.

Gupta stressed the need of a multi-stakeholder strategy to promote consciousness regarding the indiscriminate use of mobile devices. 

He also called for an expanded pool of trained professionals to address the mounting burden of speech and hearing issues, suggesting the inclusion of these disabilities in the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) and advocating for a nationwide campaign to enhance awareness.

“In the digital era, the escalating exposure to gadgets not only heightens the risk of speech and hearing disorders but also portends a severe shortage of professionals in this domain. Employing technology to foster awareness, screening, and treatment for these disorders is imperative,” said Gupta, also the founder of the Health Parliament, a Think Tank on Health.

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-Top News Health India News

Traditional medicine focus of G20 health ministers meet

World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (WHO/Handout via Xinhua/IANS)

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus will be at the summit along with G20 Health Ministers and scientists, practitioners of traditional medicine and health workers, reports Arul Louis

The WHO and India are convening the first global summit on traditional medicine in Gandhinagar next week with the participation of G20 Health Ministers.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’s Spokesperson Farhan Haq said on Thursday that the meeting would seek to enhance the scientific basis of traditional medicine and help meet the UN targets for health.

The summit next Thursday and Friday would “explore ways to scale up scientific advances and realise the potential of evidence-based knowledge in the use of traditional medicine for people’s health and well-being around the world,” he added.

WHO emphasises that traditional medicine can be a catalyst for “achieving the goal of universal health coverage and meeting global health-related targets that were off-track even before the disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic,” Haq said.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus will be at the summit along with G20 Health Ministers and scientists, practitioners of traditional medicine and health workers, the organisation said.

“Bringing traditional medicine into the mainstream of healthcare — appropriately, effectively, and above all, safely based on the latest scientific evidence — can help bridge access gaps for millions of people around the world,” he said.

An aim of the summit is to enhance scientific rigour in traditional medicine, according to WHO.

The summit will look for methodologies to develop a global research agenda and set priorities in traditional medicine, it said.

“Advancing science on traditional medicine should be held to the same rigorous standards as in other fields of health,” said John Reeder, WHO’s Director for Research and Health.

“This may require new thinking on the methodologies to address these more holistic, contextual approaches and provide evidence that is sufficiently conclusive and robust to lead to policy recommendations,” he added. 

WHO said, “Natural doesn’t always mean safe, and centuries of use are not a guarantee of efficacy; therefore, scientific method and process must be applied to provide the rigorous evidence required for the recommendation of traditional medicines in WHO guidelines.”

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-Top News Health India News

UK, India health care alliance launched to promote excellence, education, partnerships  

A high-powered delegation from the UK’s Health – Education, research, and Clinical Practice sectors that visited New Delhi launched the Indo UK Health Care Alliance on 4th August 2023, reports Rahul Laud.   The chief objective of the India UK Healthcare Alliance will be to promote excellence in the Healthcare sector and provide a platform for the healthcare institutions in the two countries to create synergetic partnerships aimed at improving health outcomes. Visiting delegates from the UK, Prof Sir Steve Powis- National Medical Director of NHS England,

Prof Simon Gregory- medical director of Primary Care, workforce training and Education Directorate, NHS England,

Prof Geeta Menon- Post Graduate Dean, Workforce Training and Education, Directorate, NHS England, Dr.

Prof Parag Singhal, Consultant Endocrinology and Chief Executive, of Bapio Training Academy, were joined at the launch in New Delhi by the Member of Parliament Dr Sanjay Jaiswal who is the new Chairperson of the Alliance,  Ruchi Ghanshyam, former High Commissioner of India in the UK, Chandru Iyer, Deputy High Commissioner of the UK for Karnataka and Kerala and Deputy Trade Commissioner for South Asia for trade investments and former Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Dr Harsha Vardhan.

Ruchi Ghanshyam and Iyer both applauded the efforts of the BAPIO Training Academy and the healthcare alliance initiative.  Jaiswal highlighted that “the new interventions that are being designed by the BAPIO Training Academy UK and the alliance will develop direct linkages and partnerships between Health Education Initiatives of both countries and to promote two-way mobility of a greater number of students, teachers, and researchers.”

According to Dr. Prof Parag Singhal, “There is also a great need for better clinical governance, the practice of evidenced medicine and clinical research in India which can easily be achieved through this India-UK alliance.”  “All of the above is aimed at improving Health Outcomes in both countries and creating sustainable healthcare,” Prof Singhal added. He stated that “The India-UK Health Care Alliance shall represent the shared vision and common goals of leaders and institutions in the healthcare domain across India and the UK.”  

It is proposed that the Alliance shall strategize its actions in the following domains: Promoting working partnerships between institutions across India UK axis; Facilitating the delivery of symposia, CPD workshops, and academic programs across partner institutions; Facilitating implementation of programs aimed at achieving the identified goals through partner institutions and state agencies especially to build; Promote Excellence in education, research, training and capacity building of Health Human Resources in both countries; Identify healthcare providers in India to promote Medical Tourism; Shared learning around low-cost innovative models of care to promote healthcare sustainability;  Promote the culture of patient safety and clinical governance across Indian health systems through policy, advocacy, and projects; and  Identify opportunities for climate-friendly health systems, adoption of green technologies and steps to reduce carbon emission by health ecosystem.

“There shall be partner organizations that demonstrate a firm commitment to the cause and pledge delivery of identified programmes from the set of adopted domains for INUCA,” Prof Singhal explained.

It may be recalled that the 2030 Roadmap for India-UK Future relations was launched on 4 May 2021 at a virtual summit between Prime Ministers Boris Johnson and Narendra Modi.  The roadmap sets out the joint vision for a reinvigorated and stronger relationship between the UK and India over the next ten years. The UK India Education and Research Initiative (UKIERI), embodies all of these elements in its programmatic approach and has been one of the longest-serving bilateral programmes.

The organisational alliance will be chaired by MP Dr. Sanjay Jaiswal from India, Vice Chair-Prof Parag Singhal UK and Members include Prof Tamorish Kole, Prof Lalit Waghmare, Dr Ramesh Mehta CBE, Prof Geeta Menon, Prof Derek Bell OBE, Mr. Ashsih Verma, Prof Martin Steggall.

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