BECares

The theme for World Health Day 2024 is ‘My health, my right’, which is meant to highlight the fact that millions of people across the world do not have access to proper healthcare services. In alignment with this goal, we are dedicated to advancing medical innovation and ensuring equitable access to life-saving treatments for all patients. Through collaborative efforts with healthcare professionals, we strive to empower individuals with the right to quality healthcare, fostering healthier communities and a brighter future for all.

Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most pervasive nutritional deficiencies in India and severe deficiency is seen in nearly a third of all pregnant women. In light of the high burden of juvenile asthma on both children and their families, it is imperative that we take action to prevent or at least lower the risk of asthma in children. The recent research published in The Journal of allergy and clinical immunology gives us greater incentive and guidance on prenatal vitamin D supplementation. You can read the full study here
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S009167492301254X

For more insights on vitamin D deficiency in India and to explore its extra-skeletal importance, click here https://www.becares.in/Scientific_Articles/understanding-the-extra-skeletal-importance-of-the-sunshine-vitamin

Tonsillitis is one of the most common problems that physicians see in clinical practice, especially in children. Frequently resulting from infections, the condition can produce symptoms such as sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, and swollen tonsils, which can disrupt everyday life. Swift identification of bacterial tonsillitis is crucial to alleviate symptoms effectively and ease the burden on tonsillitis. Medications like cefpodoxime proxetil offer a safer and more effective alternative to conventional treatments with penicillin V or amoxicillin–clavulanate, ensuring prompt recovery and preventing recurrence, with reduced risk of antibiotic resistance.

Vit B-Complex aids in the development & maintenance of a healthy immune system and helps in faster recovery from acute illness. A retrospective study in July 2023 used a questionnaire-based survey to gather insights into the opinions and experiences of doctors in India on the use of a targeted vitamin B-complex combination in attaining faster recovery in acute illnesses like fever. The study gives us a better understanding of prevailing attitudes towards B-complex supplementation and its efficacy.
Click on the link for the complete study – https://ojs.ijcp.in/IJCP/article/view/681/513

Chronic constipation poses a significant health concern as it can exacerbate pre-existing conditions and lead to complications like f***l impaction or stercoral ulcers. Moreover, comorbidities such as hemorrhoids, a**l fissures, f***l impaction, and obstruction can cause severe discomfort and impair patients’ quality of life. Treatments like a combination of Milk of Magnesia (MOM), liquid paraffin, and sodium picosulfate are regarded as safe and effective for both adults and the aged, offering relief by promoting bowel movement without causing dependency. This offers a balanced approach for the management of chronic constipation and associated comorbidities.

With approximately 15% of India's population affected by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), understanding effective treatment options is paramount. Antacids emerge as the frontline remedy, endorsed by the World Gastroenterology Organization for mild to moderate symptoms of heartburn. Comprised of calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, and aluminum hydroxide, these formulations swiftly neutralize excess stomach acid, offering rapid relief and fostering mucosal healing. From quick-acting calcium carbonate variants to long-lasting alginate-based solutions, antacids provide tailored relief, reducing reflux episodes and enhancing patient comfort. Recent studies highlight formulations with aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and simethicone for their superior acid-neutralizing capacities and enhanced efficacy, underscoring their significance in managing acid reflux effectively. You can find more details on role of antacids in managing acid reflux here - https://www.becares.in/Infographics/antacid-insights

Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD and chronic gastritis are extremely common problems in clinical practice and they have overlapping etiological factors, making it important to tackle them effectively. In addition to eradication therapy for H. pylori-associated problems, combination therapy with domperidone and omeprazole has shown promise in managing both GERD and chronic gastritis, offering symptomatic relief and improving gastric motility, thereby addressing reflux symptoms and reducing gastritis-related discomfort.

For more information on the diagnosis and management of GERD, visit https://www.becares.in/Infographics/approach-to-diagnosis-and-management-of-gerd

Educating parents about appropriate use of medications for productive cough in pediatrics is crucial because of the high prevalence of the condition and widespread use of cough medications. Productive cough, often associated with respiratory tract infections, can impair respiratory function, hinder sleep, and disrupt daily activities in pediatric patients. Mucoactive agents like ambroxol offer proven efficacy and safety in facilitating mucus clearance, reducing cough severity, and promoting respiratory comfort in children. Recommending these medications as part of a comprehensive management approach can alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and expedite recovery in children with productive cough.

Dehydration poses a significant threat, particularly in the context of rising global temperatures and increasing heat-related illnesses. It can lead to adverse health outcomes, including chronic diseases and premature mortality, especially among middle-aged adults. To effectively manage dehydration, it is essential to correct fluid deficits, maintain electrolyte balance, and replace ongoing fluid losses. The WHO-endorsed Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), formulated with sodium chloride, potassium chloride, and sodium citrate, serves as a safe and effective solution, facilitating rapid rehydration and electrolyte replenishment in patients at risk, including vulnerable children.

You can learn more about the WHO recommendations and get guidance from this conversation with Dr Sivaranjani Santosh https://www.becares.in/KOL-Perspective/who-recommended-formula-for-ors-the-need-of-the-hour

While topical corticosteroids (TCSs) are widely employed for managing inflammatory skin conditions due to their efficacy, recent research highlights a potential concern, underscoring the importance of caution when utilizing topical corticosteroids, particularly in susceptible populations like women and young individuals. Clinicians should be vigilant about these potential side effects, emphasizing the need for careful consideration in prescribing TCSs.
The study's findings, published in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, serve as a valuable reference for healthcare practitioners in navigating the balance between the utility of TCSs and the associated risks. You can read the study here https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jdv.19697

In healthy individuals, a stable and beneficial network of microbiota exists, but in people with kidney stones, this network breaks down. This disruption affects the production of essential vitamins and useful metabolites not only in the gut but also in the urinary tract and oral cavity. This widespread change in microbiota is a key factor in the formation of kidney stones. Therefore, treating kidney stone disease should focus on restoring microbial function and avoiding disruptive factors like poor diet and unnecessary antibiotics to prevent the recurrence of stones. You can find more details from the study here: https://microbiomejournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40168-023-01703-x

Burnout and mental health problems, notably depression, are pervasive issues among doctors, stemming from the demanding nature of their profession. The implications of ignoring these problems extend beyond patient care and the overall functioning of healthcare systems, as burnout and depression are also linked to higher su***de rates.
Addressing these challenges is vital not only for the mental health of healthcare providers but also for maintaining a resilient and sustainable healthcare workforce. Failure to tackle burnout may result in increased healthcare costs, decreased job satisfaction, and potential workforce shortages, posing a threat to the quality and accessibility of patient care. Get a clearer picture of the health of our doctors and a self-care checklist and tips here: https://www.becares.in/Infographics/mental-well-being-in-doctors-the-foundation-for-excellent-healthcare

Deficiency in vitamin D poses a serious health threat that extends beyond skeletal health – it also contributes to muscle issues, neurological disease risk, and increases susceptibility to infections. Supplementation becomes especially important for individuals with impaired endogenous synthesis, such as those with limited sun exposure or certain medical conditions.
Doctors are best equipped to assess individual needs and recommend appropriate supplementation strategies, emphasizing the importance of addressing vitamin D deficiency for optimal health. You can explore research-based insights into the importance of vitamin D at https://www.becares.in/Scientific_Articles/understanding-the-extra-skeletal-importance-of-the-sunshine-vitamin

Vitamin D deficiency presents a significant health concern in India, with a substantial portion of the population experiencing suboptimal levels. The implications encompass various health issues, including autoimmune diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, increased susceptibility to infections, and potential exacerbation of chronic conditions. Optimal treatment involves supplementation with Vitamin D3 or cholecalciferol, the biologically inactive form of vitamin D, addressing both insufficiency and deficiency. For a deeper dive into the diagnostic criteria and management of vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency visit https://www.becares.in/Infographics/approach-to-diagonosis-and-management-of-vitamin-d-deficiency

The multifactorial nature of IBS, involving intricate interactions between gastrointestinal motility, visceral hypersensitivity, and psychosocial factors, complicates its management. Current approaches primarily focus on symptom relief and lifestyle modifications, often providing only partial efficacy. Enzyme therapy emerges as a promising avenue, targeting specific mechanisms implicated in IBS pathophysiology.
Click on the link to learn more and get insights from renowned hepato-gastroenterologist, Dr. NH Banka https://www.becares.in/KOL-Perspective/dyspepsia-irritable-bowel-syndrome-common-in-indian-rural-population-with-functional-gastrointestinal-disorders

All of the micronutrients have a role to play in human health and B-complex, Lysine and Zinc are especially important for childhood growth and development, and healthy immune function. Deficiencies in these nutrients have been linked to a variety of developmental problems including impaired cognitive development, stunting, reduced immunity, and so on. Deficiencies in these nutrients can adversely impact a child before birth too, threatening fetal health. This makes supplementation a vital tool to promote maternal and infant well-being. You can learn more about the role of zinc and zinc supplementation from this conversation with Dr. Vijay Yewale, former President of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics: https://www.becares.in/KOL-Perspective/zinc-supplementation-an-effective-and-feasible-approach-to-improve-growth-in-children

May the coming year bring you joy, good health, and moments of rejuvenation. Your wellness is our collective strength, ensuring the delivery of the finest care. Wishing you and your families the best of health and a very Happy New Year!

#2024

With a staggering 20-30% of the population affected, allergic rhinitis is a growing concern. Unfortunately, suboptimal outcomes persist due to the unaffordability of key therapies like inhaled corticosteroids. But there's hope because certain drug combinations like Montelukast+Levocetirizine are inexpensive and show great promise in providing relief from both early and late-phase immune reactions associated with allergic rhinitis. Ongoing trials of this combination therapy also suggest a broader therapeutic potential beyond allergic rhinitis. To learn more, read the full story at https://www.becares.in/Scientific_Articles/montelukast-and-levocetirizine-in-allergic-rhinitis-an-evidence-based-approach

This festive season is all about love and compassion, so take time off to spend it with those you love. We wish you a Merry Christmas and the blessings of love, joy, happiness, and good health!

The World Health Organization first raised the alarm about cough syrups from India, following the deaths of 70 children in Gambia. Since then, drugs testing laboratories across India have scrutinized the safety of cough syrups and their findings were revealed in a recent Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) report. These findings must be highlighted to promote patient safety and encourage the use of safer alternatives, including Noscapine. To explore the role of Noscapine in treating viral coughs, visit https://www.becares.in/Healthcare-TV/role-of-noscapine-in-the-treatment-of-virus-induced-cough

The rising rates of obesity worldwide have already set off alarm bells, because of obesity’s association with NCDs such as heart disease, stroke, type-2 diabetes, and certain cancers. However, we often overlook the link between obesity and constipation, which can result in complications and significantly raise healthcare costs. Dr. Kunal Das, HOD – Gastroenterology, Manipal Hospital, Dwarka, New Delhi, shares insights from recent studies and gives advice on clinical approaches to improve treatment efficacy, while lowering costs. To listen to the full conversation click here: https://www.becares.in/KOL-Perspective/prevalence-of-constipation-in-adults-with-obesity-class-ii-and-iii-and-associated-factors

Acute dry cough in children poses a clinical challenge due to its potential to disrupt sleep, impair quality of life, and cause respiratory distress. Identifying safe and effective cough suppressants is crucial, especially considering the limited options for pediatric use. For children, non-opioid antitussives are preferred over opioids due to safety concerns. Common non-opioid options include dextromethorphan and noscapine, which are widely used as a cough suppressant in pediatric formulations. Noscapine is particularly noteworthy for its efficacy and good safety profile.

Get more info from this conversation with renowned pediatrician and neonatologist Dr. Pramod Jog, Jog Children's Clinic & Medipoint Hospital in Aundh, Pune https://www.becares.in/KOL-Perspective/management-of-respiratory-infection-related-acute-dry-cough-in-children

With the rising prevalence of drug-resistant strains of H. pylori infection, standard treatments cannot reliably achieve a high eradication rate. When dealing with such infections, which second-line treatment is most effective?
Share your answers in the comments and learn more.

Strong doctor-patient communication is the cornerstone of medical practice. Why does it matter? It can improve patient comprehension of medical information, regulation of emotions, compliance with treatment, and patient satisfaction. To explore effective communication strategies and learn how they can be leveraged to cultivate a thriving medical practice, read the full story: https://www.becares.in/Scientific_Articles/effective-doctor-patient-communication