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Strategies for Enhancing Children’s Oral Health

Oct 25, 2024 by Sujata 0 Comments #children, #health

October 25th, 2024: In response to the oral health crisis affecting millions of children in England due to tooth decay, a group of recommendations has been put up by scientists at Newcastle University. The research urges the new government to create a national strategy for children’s oral health and offers suggestions for lowering childhood sugar intake, optimising fluoride exposure, and expanding access to dental care.

The study, which is titled “An evidence-based plan for improving children’s oral health with and through educational settings,” was produced by Child of the North and Anne Longfield’s Centre for Young Lives think tank. It focusses on how the incoming government may prioritise young people’s life opportunities in the formulation and implementation of public policy.

In England, tooth decay affects millions of children and young adults, and the research highlights the significant and varied scope of this problem and how it lowers their quality of life. If left untreated, it can lead to toothache, insomnia, changed eating patterns, and even harm speech and language development. Children who suffer from poor dental health may be less likely to develop to their full potential and experience a decrease in confidence. Additionally, there is evidence that indicates the impact of dental decay on children living in underprivileged areas is greater, even when taking into consideration the various degrees of dental decay.

In order to enhance children’s oral health and lessen social disparities—particularly those faced by youth in the North of England—the research suggests that the incoming government create and execute a national strategy for improving children’s oral health. A national board of representatives from departmental and local government offices, dental associations and speciality societies, academic institutions, citizen representatives, and charitable groups would be in charge of this. This approach would consist of:

· Minimising sugar intake through legislative measures like extending the Soft Drinks Industry Levy to cover additional sugar-sweetened drinks like sugary milkshakes.

· Imposing limitations on the promotion, marketing, and advertising of food.
restricting sales of energy drinks with caffeine to those under the age of sixteen.

· Maximising the amount of fluoride exposure by combining community water fluoridation with more focused initiatives like supervised brushing.

Additionally, it lays out recommendations for how early childhood and education-based interventions—co-designed by health visitors, nurseries, and schools—can be optimised for their impact.

The study showcases cutting-edge methods that are now being used to treat children’s oral health issues. It outlines the important role that local government may play in lowering sugar intake and the various approaches that local governments have taken to cut back on the consumption of foods and beverages that are rich in fat, sugar, and salt.

In comparison to their southern counterparts, children and young people living in the North of England are more severely impacted by higher levels of deprivation and associated unmet dental needs, according to Paula Waterhouse, President of the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry and Professor of Paediatric Dentistry at Newcastle University. She said: “It is time to establish an oral health strategy for children and young people across England. The evidence base garnered by existing oral health research should be used to inform Government strategy and implementation of both national and local policies.

“We need to act now. Our children’s health depends on it and it’s everybody’s business – parents, dental and medical teams, health visitors, industry, education colleagues, and policy makers. We all have a part to play.”

health

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Hosts Dr. C.N. Manjunath for Heart Health Talk and Visit

Oct 8, 2024 by Gayathri Pariti 0 Comments #health, #Talk

Bangalore, 8th October 2024: Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) had the privilege of hosting renowned cardiologist and Member of Parliament, Bangalore Rural Dr. C.N. Manjunath, during his recent visit to the company’s premises. Known for his vast experience and expertise in the field of cardiology, Dr. Manjunath graciously shared his insights on a critical and timely subject – “Myths and Facts about Heart Health.”

During his visit, Dr. Manjunath engaged with TKM employees in a lively discussion that delved deep into the intricacies of cardiovascular health. In a comprehensive and engaging session, he dispelled several widely held misconceptions about heart disease and offered practical advice on how to prioritize heart health amidst the demands of modern life. The session saw enthusiastic participation from employees across departments. The engaging presentation covered a variety of crucial topics, including debunking common myths for better understanding of real risk factors and recognizing early signs of heart-related issues. He also educated the audience on practical lifestyle changes to maintain long-term heart health, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and routine health check-ups.

Dr. Manjunath’s visit and his thought-provoking talk were greatly appreciated by the TKM community, leaving a lasting impact on all participants. His expertise not only shed light on the intricacies of cardiovascular care but also underscored the importance of health awareness in the corporate world.

Dr. C.N. Manjunath, Member of Parliament, Bangalore Rural and Former Director, Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, said, “Cardiovascular diseases are one of the most significant health challenges globally, and the key to addressing them lies in awareness, education, and early intervention. I believe that empowering people with the right information is crucial. By understanding the real risk factors, recognizing early symptoms, and making small yet impactful lifestyle changes, we can significantly reduce the burden of heart disease. It was a pleasure to engage in such a meaningful dialogue at TKM and share insights that can hopefully influence their day-to-day decisions about health. I commend TKM for their commitment to health awareness and look forward to continuing these discussions in other settings. Let us remember that good heart health is not just about medical intervention, but about preventive care and making informed choices that lead to a healthier and more fulfilling life.”

Following the presentation, employees had the opportunity to engage in a dynamic Q&A session with Dr. Manjunath. Questions ranged from understanding cholesterol management to the effects of genetics on heart disease. Dr. Manjunath responded with expert advice tailored to the individual concerns of the participants, ensuring everyone left with actionable knowledge they could apply in their daily lives. His genuine concern for their well-being and personalised solutions of each query resonated deeply with the audience.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor recognizes the importance of creating a healthy and supportive work environment. TKM looks forward to hosting more such informative and beneficial sessions in the future as the company continues its commitment to employee wellness.

health

Turbostart Invests USD1 Million in Ai Health Highway to Transform Healthcare with AiSteth

Oct 4, 2024 by Sujata 0 Comments #health, #Highway

Hyderabad/Bangalore, October 05, 2024 – Turbostart, a global sector-agnostic venture capital platform, has made a USD 1 million investment in Ai Health Highway as part of its Pre-Series A round funding. Ai Health Highway is a company that focuses on providing tech-enabled screening tools that help in the early detection of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and improving healthcare accessibility through India’s first Ai-enabled stethoscope, AiSteth. This investment is part of a larger $1.5M funding, including co-investment from notable investors Rainmatter by Zerodha, The Chennai Angels, BITS BioCyTiH Foundation along with other angel investors. This crucial funding will empower Ai Health Highway to solidify its presence in India, accelerate regulatory approvals internationally, and broaden its AI/ML offerings in the Cardio-Respiratory domain.

AiSteth, India’s first AI-enabled stethoscope, is revolutionizing cardiac care by assisting healthcare professionals and non-specialists in interpreting heart sounds to support accurate clinical decisions. Utilizing advanced AI and signal processing, AiSteth transforms traditional stethoscopes into powerful screening tools capable of detecting life-threatening cardiac disorders at an early stage.

The AI-enabled stethoscope seamlessly integrates into existing workflows, equipping primary care providers with high-quality heart sound capture, analysis, and data-sharing capabilities, thereby enhancing the accessibility and affordability of healthcare solutions.

Founded in 2018, Ai Health Highway is on a mission to reduce global premature deaths due to NCDs by 30% by 2030. NCDs account for over 41 million deaths annually, highlighting the need for early detection and intervention.

Venkat Raju, Founder and CEO of Turbostart, stated, “We are thrilled to support Ai Health Highway and its exceptional founding team, who bring together a powerful blend of medical expertise, business acumen, and technological innovation. Their work goes beyond upgrading the stethoscope – they’re reimagining screening tools to make healthcare more accessible in the modern age. Their smart stethoscope technology has the potential to bring quality screenings to underserved communities, democratizing access to early detection. We are excited to see how they will transform healthcare accessibility, creating meaningful impact in an industry where change is not just welcome, but necessary.”

Dr (Maj) Satish S Jeevannavar, Founder, AI Health Highway, said, “We are delighted to announce Turbostart as the Lead Investor for our Pre-Series A round, joined by co-investors Rainmatter by Zerodha and BITS BioCyTiH Foundation. Our existing investors, The Chennai Angels, along with other angel investors, have also participated in this round. We are thrilled to collaborate with Turbostart on this vital mission to tackle NCDs. The expertise of their seasoned professionals and Centers of Excellence will be invaluable as we navigate the complex global healthcare landscape.”

In addition to this investment, Turbostart has a proven track record of supporting tech-first startups across various sectors. Over the past five years, Turbostart has facilitated investments of more than USD 50 million across more than 50 innovative startups. This commitment highlights Turbostart’s continued dedication to supporting the growth and development of the startup ecosystem, providing personalized mentorship, access to five centers of excellence, and a vast network spanning India, the US, MEA, and Singapore to support the development of thriving enterprises.

health

Shailaja Teacher: AMR Recognized as Global Health Security Threat by WHO, CDC, and UN

Oct 3, 2024 by Sujata 0 Comments #Global, #health

Hyderabad, October 03, 2024-The three-day G-SPARC 2024, Global South Conference on Infection Prevention, Control, and Antimicrobial Stewardship began on Thursday morning at Shilpakalavedika in Madhapur in the city.

Speaking on the Management of outbreaks and health crises- a politician’s perspective, Ms. Shailaja Teacher, Former Health Minister of Kerala said Infection Prevention and Control, AMR (Anti Microbial Resistance) are global issues. AMR is a silent pandemic she said. AMR is recognized as a global health security threat by WHO (World Health Organisation), CDC(Centre for Disease Control), and UN(United Nations). UN addressed AMR as early as 2016. She gave insights into the preparedness before COVID spread and how proactive measures about AMR, its ‘ policy were taken in Kerala, etc and the introduction of the AMR action plan, the first time India proved to be very effective.

Speaking further she said we need one health approach to address AMR. The estimated global cost it is $ 1000 trillion by 2050.

Kerala became the first state in India to release a sub-national Actional Plan called KARSAP in 2018 and it is conceptualized and implemented on a One Health Platform. We launched the Antibiotic Literate Kerala Campaign in 2019 to make all citizens of Kerala aware of the judicious use of antibiotics in all sectors. We have also launched an AI-based Antibiogram App, she said.

Participating in a panel discussion on the Leadership role in IPC & AMS policy and practices, Dr. Evita Fernandez- Chair of the Fernandez Foundation said nurses are true custodians of the patients. However, they are scared to raise issues when the patient’s health is compromised. When anyone including doctors touches the patient, they need to be sanitized well. Nurses must get their respect. They are not subordinates to doctors. They are our colleagues. Nurses play a big role in stopping infections spread to patients. Doctors must change their attitudes towards nurses and give mutual respect, she added.

Dr Anuj Sharma of the WHO Country Office of India said for an effective AMR plan and its implementation we need a state government’s concurrence on IPC (Infection, Prevention, and Control) and AMR

The panel discussion was moderated by Dr.Hari Prasad-Chaiman – CARE Group of hospitals

The panelists were Dr. Evita Fernandez- Chair, Fernandez Foundation Dr.Gurunath Reddy-Chairman – Continental Hospital; Dr.Vincy Tribhuvan -VP- Of nursing, CARE Group; Dr. Giridhar Gyani -DG- AHPI; Dr. Kashipa Harit- Deputy Director NABH; Dr. Anuj Sharma-Team Focal Point – AMR | IPC, World Health Organization, Country O ce for India

Earlier the meeting began with a session on Understanding the science of complexity and its applications in IPC by Prof. Dr. Vijay V.Yeldandi, Clinical Professor of Medicine and Surgery, University of Illinois, Chicago, USA.

Another session by Dr Annie Thakore, CEO, of Pranaam Hospital Enhancing Infection Control Practices in Hospital Settings followed it.

A panel discussion on the Role of Environmental surveillance in mitigating infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance was held. The Panelists were Dr. Rakesh Mishra, Director, Tata Institute of Genetics and Society (TIGS), Bengaluru and Principal Investigator, Alliance for Pathogen Surveillance Innovations (APSI)-India; Dr. Vinay K. Nandicoori, Director, CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad and Principal Investigator, APSI-India; Dr. Aruna Panda, Program Director, APSI-India, CCMB, Hyderabad; Dr. Shivranjani C. Moharir, Senior Scientist, TIGS; Dr. Mahesh Dharne, Senior Principal Scientist, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune

Some of the prominent speakers who participated in the conference include Dr Anuj Sharma, WHO India Office; Prof Chedly Azzouz, Chairperson, Infection Control Africa Network; Prof. (Dr.) Atul Goel, DGHS & Director, National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC); Ms Shailaja Teacher, MLA and Former-Health Minister, Govt of Kerala

The objective of the conference is to provide a platform for Infection Prevention and Control (IPC), Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), and Patient Safety stakeholders from Global South (resource-limited countries in Asia, Africa, Middle East, South America) to collaborate for better policies, research, tailored solutions and practices on IPC, AMS and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) and pandemic preparedness.

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Innovation in Plant-Based Foods: The Future of Vegan Cheese

Jul 18, 2024 by Mansi 0 Comments #health, #Nutrition, #Plant-Based Foods, #Vegan Cheese

In recent years, the food industry has witnessed a seismic shift toward plant-based alternatives, driven by growing consumer awareness of health, environmental, and ethical considerations. Among these alternatives, vegan cheese has emerged as a standout player, captivating both consumers and investors alike. This article delves into the innovative strides being made in the vegan cheese market and explores what the future holds for this burgeoning industry.

The Rise of Vegan Cheese

Vegan cheese, once a niche product found primarily in health food stores, has now entered the mainstream market. According to Persistence Market Research’s projections, the vegan cheese market is anticipated to rise from US$23.1 Million in 2024 to US$86.1 Million by 2031. The market for vegan cheese is expected to reach a robust CAGR of 12.6% from 2024 to 2031. This growth is fueled by increasing lactose intolerance, rising vegan and flexitarian populations, and the mounting environmental concerns associated with dairy farming.

Key Drivers of Innovation

Health and Nutrition

One of the primary drivers of innovation in vegan cheese is the quest for healthier alternatives. Traditional cheese is often high in saturated fats and cholesterol, which are linked to various health issues such as heart disease and obesity. In contrast, vegan cheese, typically made from nuts, seeds, soy, or root vegetables, offers a lower-fat, cholesterol-free option. Companies are continuously refining their recipes to enhance the nutritional profile of vegan cheese, incorporating ingredients like probiotics, vitamins, and minerals to improve gut health and overall well-being.

Flavor and Texture

In the early days, vegan cheese was criticized for its inferior taste and texture compared to dairy cheese. However, advances in food technology have significantly improved these aspects. Modern vegan cheeses mimic the creamy texture and rich flavor of dairy cheese more closely than ever before. Techniques such as fermentation, which replicates the tangy taste of aged cheese, and the use of innovative ingredients like coconut oil and tapioca starch, have been game-changers. Additionally, enzyme technology is being employed to break down proteins and fats, creating more authentic cheese flavors.

Sustainability

Environmental sustainability is another critical factor driving innovation in vegan cheese. Dairy farming is resource-intensive, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, and land degradation. Plant-based cheese, on the other hand, has a considerably lower environmental footprint. Startups and established companies alike are investing in sustainable sourcing and production practices, including the use of renewable energy and biodegradable packaging. These efforts not only reduce the environmental impact but also appeal to eco-conscious consumers.

Pioneering Companies and Products

Miyoko’s Creamery

Miyoko’s Creamery, founded by Miyoko Schinner, is a pioneer in the vegan cheese market. The company is renowned for its artisanal approach, using traditional cheesemaking techniques combined with plant-based ingredients. Miyoko’s products, such as their European-style cultured butter and mozzarella, have garnered acclaim for their authentic taste and texture. The company continues to innovate with new flavors and product lines, including liquid vegan mozzarella designed for pizza and other culinary applications.

Violife

Violife, a brand originating from Greece, has gained global recognition for its wide range of vegan cheeses. Violife’s products are free from common allergens such as gluten, nuts, and soy, making them accessible to a broader audience. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of coconut oil and potato starch as primary ingredients. Violife’s innovation extends to its product variety, offering everything from cheddar and feta to cream cheese and parmesan alternatives.

Follow Your Heart

Follow Your Heart, the company behind the popular Vegenaise, has also made significant strides in the vegan cheese market. Their plant-based cheese slices and blocks are crafted from a blend of coconut oil, potato starch, and modified food starch. Follow Your Heart’s products are praised for their meltability, making them ideal for sandwiches, burgers, and pizzas. The company’s focus on flavor and functionality has helped it secure a loyal customer base.

Technological Innovations

Fermentation and Culturing

Fermentation is a key technology propelling the vegan cheese industry forward. By fermenting plant-based milks with specific bacterial cultures, companies can create complex flavors and textures reminiscent of dairy cheese. This process not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the nutritional profile by increasing the probiotic content. Fermentation is being refined and scaled up, allowing for more consistent and diverse product offerings.

Biotechnology

Biotechnology is playing an increasingly vital role in vegan cheese innovation. Some companies are using genetically engineered microbes to produce casein, the primary protein found in dairy cheese, without involving animals. This approach, known as precision fermentation, enables the creation of vegan cheeses that are virtually indistinguishable from their dairy counterparts in terms of taste, texture, and functionality. Perfect Day, a company specializing in this technology, has already made significant strides, and its animal-free dairy proteins are being incorporated into various products.

3D Printing

3D printing technology, although still in its infancy in the food industry, holds promise for the future of vegan cheese. By precisely layering plant-based ingredients, 3D printers can create cheeses with intricate textures and customized shapes. This technology could revolutionize the way vegan cheese is produced and presented, offering endless possibilities for culinary creativity and product differentiation.

The Future Landscape

The future of vegan cheese looks promising, with continuous advancements in technology and growing consumer demand. As the market matures, we can expect to see several trends and developments:

Increased Diversity

The range of vegan cheese products is set to expand, catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs. We will likely see more region-specific cheese alternatives, such as plant-based brie, camembert, and blue cheese. Additionally, the inclusion of functional ingredients like adaptogens and superfoods could become a trend, offering health benefits beyond basic nutrition.

Greater Accessibility

As production scales up and processes become more efficient, the cost of vegan cheese is expected to decrease. This will make plant-based cheese more accessible to a broader audience, encouraging more people to incorporate it into their diets. Increased accessibility will also be driven by wider distribution in mainstream grocery stores and online platforms.

Collaboration and Innovation

Collaboration between food scientists, chefs, and technologists will continue to drive innovation in the vegan cheese sector. These partnerships will lead to the development of novel products and improved manufacturing techniques. Investment in research and development will remain crucial, with companies seeking to stay ahead in a competitive market.

The vegan cheese market is on an exciting trajectory, fueled by technological innovation, health consciousness, and environmental awareness. As companies continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, vegan cheese is poised to become a staple in households worldwide. The future of vegan cheese is not just about creating a dairy alternative; it’s about redefining the culinary landscape and paving the way for a more sustainable and health-conscious future.

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Dr. Subhash Gupta Honored with the Best Menstrual Product Distribution Award at the International Icon Awards 2024

Jul 9, 2024 by Mansi 0 Comments #Dr. Subhash Gupta, #health, #International Icon Awards 2024, #Menstrual Product

Gurgaon, India, 9th July 2024 – At the renowned International Icon Awards 2024, Dr. Subhash Gupta received the Best Menstrual Product Distribution Award, marking a significant occasion celebrating outstanding contributions to women’s health and hygiene. The celebrated Lemon Tree Hotel in Gurgaon hosted the awards ceremony, which drew well-known figures from various global industries.

Renowned women’s health advocate Dr. Subhash Gupta has devoted his professional life to making menstruation products available and reasonably priced for women in India. The management of menstrual hygiene has changed dramatically as a result of his creative distribution methods and dedication to shattering stigmas associated with menstruation, especially in marginalized groups.

During his award address, “Dr. Gupta conveyed his appreciation and highlighted the need for a team effort to maintain the advancements in menstruation health. This award is dedicated not just to myself, but to all the women who have bravely raised awareness about menstrual health issues and to the many individuals who dedicate their lives to ensuring no woman is left behind. Together, we can keep dismantling obstacles and advancing a future in which everyone has access to and prioritizes menstruation health,” he said.

In between keynote addresses, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, the award ceremony created a cooperative atmosphere where stakeholders could exchange ideas and create new alliances. After the event, attendees felt encouraged and inspired to make more contributions to this important cause.

health

All Diseases Build from Terrible Nutrition: claims Fitness Expert Harsh Kanwar

Jun 21, 2024 by Sujata 0 Comments #anatomy, #biomechanics, #Essentials of Supplementation., #fitness, #Harsh Kanwar, #health, #health and fitness, #health and fitness educatio, #medicine, #Science, #The Science of Food

Harsh Kanwar is a remarkable and passionate individual making significant strides in the fields of health, fitness, and medicine. As a Certified Nutritionist and Lecturer specializing in exercise science, anatomy, and biomechanics, he stands at the forefront of health and fitness education.

Harsh Kanwar

Harsh Kanwar’s approach is innovative, combining his medical expertise with a deep understanding of nutrition to address and cure diseases. His dedication to improving health through science is evident in the impact on his students and clients. He believes and has proven multiple times that even some of the most chronic diseases can be cured by proper nutrition.

Among his notable achievements are two successful works: the nutrient course “The Science of Food” and the book “Essentials of Supplementation.” Both have received widespread popularity for their insightful content and practical applications in everyday wellness.

Building on this success, Harsh has recently launched an exciting new course: Harsh Kanwar University. This comprehensive program covers all aspects of the fitness industry, making it a must-attend for anyone serious about health and fitness. His courses have already attracted over 200 students, demonstrating its popularity and the trust people place in Harsh’s expertise.

In addition to his educational initiatives, Harsh has also announced a groundbreaking fitness coaching plan. This plan focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of various diseases through scientific methods. One can take personalized coaching to transform one’s body and achieve one’s health goal. This includes weight loss, muscle gain, and more.

Harsh’s proven approach has successfully helped patients manage and overcome issues such as hypothyroidism, gout, diabetes etc. His coaching, which provides fat loss, muscle gain, and body composition, coupled with the valuable insights from his ebooks, offers a complete transformation package for those seeking to improve their health.

Harsh Kanwar’s influence extends beyond the classroom and his coaching sessions. With over 50,000 followers on Instagram, he has built a thriving community centered around scientific health and fitness advancements. His engaging and informative posts inspire and educate his audience, further establishing him as a leading voice in the field.

Harsh Kanwar’s dedication to health and fitness, combined with his innovative approaches and successful educational programs, make him a standout figure in the industry. His work continues to transform lives, helping individuals achieve their best fitness potential.

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Marvell Collaborates With United Way Bengaluru‘s’Rural Rising’ Initiative towards Sustainable Development in Bagepalli taluk of Chikkaballapura District, Karnataka

Jun 18, 2024 by Sujata 0 Comments #'Rural Rising, #Anganwadi Centres (AWCs), #AWCs., #Bagepalli Taluk Govt. Hospital, #Bharathi Kanuj, #CEO, #Education, #female students., #Ganesh Karnatakam, #gram panchayat., #Guluru Gram Panchayat., #health, #Human Development Index (HDI), #Hygiene (WASH), #Laxman Thanda villages, #Marvell, #Marvell India Country Manager., #Marvell India CSR Head, #Marvell India Finance Control, #menstrual health and hygiene, #Mission Anthodya, #Navin Bishnoi, #NGO partner United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), #Pravin Kumar UWBe Rural Projects Lead, #Rajesh Krishnan, #renewable energy, #safe drinking water, #Sanitary napkins, #Sanitation, #Sriram Ananthanarayanan UWBe Director or Projects, #Teaching and Learning Materials (TLMs), #United Way Bengaluru, #United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), #Varun Kumar UWBe Corporate Relations, #Water, #well-being

Bengaluru, June 18, 2024: Marvell, in collaboration with NGO partner United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), is driving an impactful intervention, ‘Rural Rising’, an integrated rural development program, in the Chikkaballapura District of Karnataka. The program is designed to meet the Mission Anthodya and Human Development Index (HDI) indicators, validated through an in-depth needs assessment in collaboration with local authorities and community members.

This intervention addresses fundamental needs across key thematic areas, including education, health and well-being, safe drinking water, and renewable energy in the Guluru Gram Panchayat.

Marvel - United Way Bengaluru Rural Rising 2

Under the initiative, an ambulance is provided to Bagepalli Taluk Govt. Hospital, which caters to a catchment population of 1,20,000+ people and lacked a dedicated ambulance. Two new Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) have been constructed alongside the setting up of kitchen gardens and provisioning of Teaching and Learning Materials (TLMs) in the AWCs. Based on the need, a government school has been strengthened through refurbishment support, making the environment conducive to learning.

To address the need for a functional toilet facility, a new toilet has been constructed and an incinerator has been provided to a government school. Additionally, the initiative focuses on the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) component, particularly for raising awareness about menstrual health and hygiene among female students. Sanitary napkins have been distributed in five schools.

To ensure the availability of safe drinking water, three water purifier units have been installed in Anjinapura and Laxman Thanda villages, and at a government school, benefiting numerous households and students. In commitment to renewable energy, 150 solar streetlights have been successfully installed at strategic locations across the gram panchayat.

The intervention has reached over 5,285 direct beneficiaries and numerous indirect beneficiaries.

Today marked a significant day as key stakeholders involved in the initiative came together to officially announce the launch of the intervention. Key delegates present included Mr. Navin Bishnoi, Marvell India Country Manager, Ms. Bharathi Kanuj, Marvell India CSR Head and Mr. Ganesh Karnatakam, Marvell India Finance Controller, Sriram Ananthanarayanan UWBe Director or Projects, Varun Kumar UWBe Corporate Relations, Pravin Kumar UWBe Rural Projects Lead.

“Convergence and collaboration are key elements for achieving lasting effects. The Rural Rising initiative has demonstrated the power of bringing together Gram Panchayat, NGO, corporate and community members towards a shared goal,”, said, Mr. Navin Bishnoi, Marvell India Country Manager.

“Prioritising the need to invest in rural development, the Rural Rising program intends to build self-sustainable rural communities with assured access to quality education, better health and well-being, safe drinking water, and a clean environment. We are grateful to our CSR partner, Marvell, and the local community for supporting us since the inception of the program at Guluru Gram Panchayat.“, said, Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, of United Way Bengaluru.

About United Way Bengaluru (UWBe)

UWBe is an NGO focused on social issues that seek immediate and long-term attention. United Way Bengaluru marked a significant milestone this year as it completed its 15-year journey. As a part of the global network, United Way Worldwide, the largest network of non-profit organizations with 1,100 chapters in 37 countries, United Way Bengaluru carries a global image with a ‘local heart’ committed to creating meaningful change in the lives of the local communities. True to the organization’s mission “To improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities around the world”, UWBe catalyzes unified efforts from corporates, civic bodies, and citizen associations to bring about visible and sustainable change in the lives of the communities. The organization works in four key areas – environment, education, healthcare, and rural development.

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Both vaping and smoking are harmful to health

May 30, 2024 by Gayathri Pariti 0 Comments #COPD, #Dr. Srikrishna Raghavendra Boddu, #health, #Kamineni Hospitals, #Smoking, #The Burning issue, #The Modern Menace, #Volatile organic compounds

Dr. Srikrishna Raghavendra Boddu,Consultant Physician, Kamineni Hospitals, LB Nagar

The two prevalent habits in our society: vaping and smoking have long-term ill-effect on the health of individuals and are pertinent on the eve of the World No Tobacco Day, May 31st, 2024. The habit of vaping in young generations has become a luxury among both men and women without understanding the consequences or long-term effects. People asking for a smoke deaddiction are seeing vaping as a better alternative rather than seeing a specialist. Both practices, vaping and smoking when scrutinized under scientific studies, have shed light on their detrimental health effects.

Vaping (e-Cigarettes): The Modern Menace

Proponents of vaping argue that it is a safer alternative to traditional flavourings and other chemicals. Studies have shown that vaping can cause inflammation and irritation in the lungs, organ damage and addiction. Long-term effects are not fully understood, but there is evidence of potential harm from substances that are used for vaping such as diacetyl, heavy metals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) delivered to the lung. Today, many people who are resenting to vaping, are defending their choice as to be the safest choice of warding off nicotine without any scientific clues and spoiling their health slowly.

Smoking: The Burning issue

Smoking is a well-established health hazard. Tobacco smoke contains over 6000 chemicals, which are toxic and also carcinogenic. Smoking itself has been well aware as a potential risk factor that can lead to heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and various types of cancers. It affects almost all the organs in the body and is classified as the leading cause of preventable death.

Scientific Evidence:

A study published in “Respiratory Research” suggests that while e-cigarettes might be less harmful than conventional cigarettes, they still pose a great danger and their long-term effects are scarcely investigated. Another study funded by the National Institute of Health found that long-term use of e-cigarettes can significantly impair blood vessel function, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

A Diabolic conclusion:

Both vaping and smoking carry long-term disadvantages that can impact the health. While vaping is often marketed as a safer alternative, the lack of long-term studies and the presence of harmful chemicals present significant risks. Smoking with its extensive research, continues to be a major health threat.

Tag: health