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Category: Health

  • Wellness B’zaar Brings Vascular Health Into Focus Through FLOW Longevity Dialogue

    Puja Khan, Co Founder of Wellness B’zaar, and Dr Arjun Reddy, Founder of RIVEA Vascular Institute, lead a multidisciplinary discussion on circulation and preventive ageing

    Wellness B’zaar hosted FLOW – The Longevity Dialogue, a thought leadership gathering that examined vascular health and circulation as central pillars of healthy ageing. Held on 7 February 2026 at Quorum Club in Hyderabad, the event was organised in collaboration with RIVEA Vascular Institute and brought together medical experts and preventive health advocates for an interdisciplinary exchange on long term wellbeing.
    Designed as an intimate fireside and panel led conversation, the dialogue moved beyond a symptom focused understanding of ageing. Discussions reframed longevity through the lens of blood flow, highlighting how vascular health influences brain function, organ vitality, mobility, metabolic balance, and quality of life well before the onset of disease.

    A central segment of the evening was a fireside conversation moderated by Puja Khan, Co Founder of Wellness B’zaar, with Arjun Reddy, Founder of RIVEA Vascular Institute. The discussion focused on why vascular health is frequently overlooked in preventive care and the importance of early screening and intervention.
    “Vascular changes begin long before symptoms appear, often affecting multiple organs silently. Early, image guided screening allows us to identify risks sooner and intervene before damage becomes irreversible,” said Dr Arjun Reddy.

    The panel discussion, moderated by Kavitha Mantha, expanded the conversation across metabolic, cardiac, and regenerative health, positioning circulation as a unifying foundation for preventive longevity.
    “Many conditions, from cardiac disease and diabetic complications to fibroids and prostate enlargement, have a vascular dimension. A vascular first, image guided approach can prevent complications and significantly reduce the need for surgery,” Dr Arjun Reddy added.

    Samatha Tulla, Co Founder of PMX Health, highlighted the role of early biomarkers in preventive care. “Metabolic stress and vascular dysfunction often appear well before clinical symptoms. Precision medicine allows us to track these signals early and shift healthcare from reactive treatment to preventive longevity,” she said.
    The dialogue also explored emerging therapies. Harikiran Chekuri, Founder of Redefine Hair, spoke about advances in regenerative medicine, noting, “Research around peptides and regenerative therapies is opening new possibilities in vascular repair, endothelial health, and recovery focused interventions.”

    Adding a cardiac perspective, Rahul Kongara, cardiologist and preventive heart health specialist, said, “Circulation is fundamental to long term cardiac health. Many heart conditions are preceded by years of silent vascular dysfunction, which is why early screening, lifestyle intervention, and preventive care are critical to reducing future risk.”
    The session concluded with a shared emphasis on awareness, early intervention, and interdisciplinary care. Organisers noted that longevity is shaped long before disease onset and that protecting vascular health through timely screening and lifestyle changes can redefine how individuals age.
    FLOW – The Longevity Dialogue reinforced the importance of innovation led, prevention focused healthcare models that place circulation at the centre of long term wellbeing.
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  • Hearing Restored Through Rare Bilateral Cochlear Implant Procedure at MGM Healthcare

    Dr Sanjeev Mohanty, Senior Consultant and Head of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery at MGM Healthcare, says the rare procedure allows immediate auditory stimulation and faster rehabilitation for patients with auditory neuropathy

    MGM Healthcare has successfully carried out a rare and first of its kind medical procedure involving simultaneous bilateral cochlear implantation with immediate activation, restoring hearing for a 35 year old software professional from Chennai. The patient had experienced progressive hearing loss following a COVID 19 infection and was diagnosed with Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder, a condition in which sound enters the inner ear normally but fails to transmit clearly from the cochlea to the brain.
    According to the treating team, this is the first documented global case where bilateral cochlear implants were placed and activated during the same surgical procedure, unlike conventional protocols where implant activation is delayed by several days or weeks after surgery.

    The patient, a mother of two and a manager at a multinational information technology company, relied extensively on virtual meetings and digital communication while working from home. After contracting COVID 19 a few years ago, she experienced gradual hearing deterioration, which progressed rapidly over the past six months to complete hearing loss in both ears. This significantly affected her professional responsibilities and quality of life.
    A detailed diagnostic evaluation was conducted, including audiological assessments, CT scans, and MRI imaging of the brain and temporal bones. Based on these findings, she was diagnosed with Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder, also known as auditory dys synchrony. In this condition, although sound reaches the inner ear, the signals from the cochlea do not reach the brain in a coordinated manner, resulting in severe difficulty in understanding speech.

    The patient underwent simultaneous bilateral cochlear implantation, during which implants were placed in both ears in a single surgery, followed by immediate intraoperative activation. Cochlear implants bypass damaged inner ear cells and directly stimulate the auditory nerve, enabling sound perception. The surgery lasted approximately five to six hours, and the patient was discharged within 48 hours of the procedure. With preserved speech and cognitive abilities, doctors expect significant improvement in speech comprehension and functional hearing within two to three months.
    The surgery was led by Sanjeev Mohanty, Senior Consultant and Head of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery at MGM Healthcare, and was supported by a multidisciplinary team comprising audiologists, anaesthesiologists, speech and auditory verbal therapists, and specialised nursing staff.

    Commenting on the procedure, Dr Mohanty said, “Based on available literature, this is the first documented global case of simultaneous bilateral cochlear implantation with immediate switch on in a patient with Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder. Early activation allows immediate auditory stimulation and supports faster rehabilitation. The procedure was performed using advanced surgical technologies including Smart Navigation guidance for real time precision, high resolution neurosurgical microscopes for enhanced visualisation, continuous facial nerve monitoring for safety, and minimal drilling techniques to reduce tissue trauma and support quicker recovery.”
    Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder accounts for nearly five percent of non age related hearing loss cases in India. While the exact cause is often unclear, the condition has been associated with immune mediated and post viral mechanisms, including those observed following COVID 19 infection.
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  • Cancer Survivors Honoured at HCG Cancer Centre Colaba’s Cancer Winners Meet 2026

    The ‘United by Unique’ gathering in Mumbai brings together survivors, caregivers, and clinicians to recognise resilience and patient centric cancer care

    HCG ICS Khubchandani Cancer Centre, Colaba, hosted the Cancer Winners Meet 2026, themed ‘United by Unique’, bringing together 30 cancer survivors and caregivers for an event focused on recognition, reflection, and community support. The gathering was organised to honour individuals who have completed or are progressing positively through their cancer treatment journey, while reinforcing the importance of holistic, patient centric cancer care.
    The event was hosted by Prashant Pawar, Senior Consultant, Head and Neck Oncology, and was attended by senior clinicians including Sachin Trivedi, Director, Medical Oncology, and Vijyashree Murthy, Senior Consultant, Surgical Breast Oncology. The meet provided a platform to acknowledge courage, resilience, and the spirit of survivorship, while fostering emotional connection among patients and their families.

    Among the survivors was Vishnu Meher, a 69 year old retired professional from the shipping machinery and diesel engine industry and a rare male breast cancer survivor. His case highlighted the importance of early detection in men, particularly those with occupational exposure risks and a family history of malignancy. Following timely diagnosis and a multidisciplinary treatment approach, he underwent successful surgery and remains under regular follow up with stable clinical outcomes.
    Speaking on behalf of the patients who participated in the Cancer Winners Meet 2026, Vishnu Meher said, “A cancer diagnosis changes your life overnight, but what carries you through is the belief that you are not alone. The doctors and care teams here treated us with empathy as every survivor’s journey is different, yet we should stay strong and hopeful. Today is not just a celebration of recovery, but of courage, patience, and the people who never gave up on us.”

    Sharing his perspective on the initiative, Avik Chauhan, Cluster Chief Operating Officer, HCG Cancer Centre, Mumbai, said, “At HCG, we believe healing goes beyond treatment protocols. The Cancer Winners Meet reflects our commitment to holistic cancer care, where empathy, human connection, and encouragement play a vital role alongside clinical excellence.”
    Cancer survivors at the meet shared personal accounts of their diagnosis, treatment, and recovery journeys. A recurring theme across these testimonies was the compassion and support extended by doctors, nurses, and hospital staff, which participants said played a crucial role in sustaining them through treatment. The atmosphere throughout the event reflected optimism and mutual encouragement.

    As part of the programme, patients were felicitated with bouquets and gift bags in recognition of their resilience and determination. Doctors from HCG Cancer Centre Mumbai also spoke about the importance of mental well being, continuous follow up care, and strong community support in helping patients navigate life during and after cancer. The Cancer Winners Meet 2026 reaffirmed the centre’s focus on building a support ecosystem that recognises survivorship and instils confidence and hope among patients and their families.
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  • Gaps in Food Labelling Accuracy Come Into Focus Across Indian Packaged Foods

    Rashida Vapiwala, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of LabelBlind Solutions, said an independent review of over five thousand claims points to widespread lapses in health and nutrition labelling compliance.

    New Delhi, February 5, 2026: Concerns around the accuracy and compliance of health and nutrition claims on packaged food labels have gained renewed attention following a large scale independent assessment of food labelling practices across India’s packaged food sector.
    The assessment was conducted by LabelBlind Solutions Private Limited and examined 5,058 individual labelling claims across 18 commonly consumed food categories. The findings indicate that 33.6 percent of the claims reviewed were either non compliant with existing regulations or lacked adequate substantiation requiring further brand verification. Of these, 21.3 percent were found to be non compliant, while 12.3 percent did not meet substantiation requirements under current regulatory norms.

    The review evaluated compliance against standards issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, guidelines of the Advertising Standards Council of India, and relevant provisions of the Consumer Protection Act 2019.
    Everyday household staples emerged as the most affected categories. The analysis showed that health claims failed compliance checks in 80 percent of honey products, 65.5 percent of ghee products, 54.3 percent of tea and herbal infusions, and 52.9 percent of edible oils. These categories, which are consumed regularly across Indian households, accounted for the highest proportion of non compliant labelling claims.

    The study also examined newer and innovation driven food segments. Among these, 29 percent of claims made on plant based beverages, 28.6 percent on ready to eat meals, and 27.3 percent on packaged snack products were found to be non compliant. The findings suggest that faster product innovation cycles may be outpacing internal compliance checks in emerging food categories.
    Commenting on the implications, Rashida Vapiwala said food labelling plays a critical role in enabling informed consumer choices around health and nutrition. She said that as consumers move further away from direct relationships with food producers, labels have become the primary point of communication and trust. She added that clarity and accuracy on food labels are not only regulatory requirements but also public health responsibilities.

    The findings align with broader regulatory trends. Recent complaint data from the Advertising Standards Council of India has consistently placed the food and beverage sector among the most scrutinised categories, with a significant share of cases linked to health and nutrition related claims.
    LabelBlind has urged packaged food companies to strengthen internal governance around the use of health and nutrition claims, particularly for everyday food products. The company has also called for earlier integration of compliance checks during product development and greater use of digital systems to manage regulatory requirements as scrutiny intensifies and consumer awareness increases.
    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.

  • When Protein Drops Off the Plate, a Pattern Emerges in Urban Diets, Says a Country Delight Study

    Chakradhar Gade, CEO and Co-founder at Country Delight, and Dr Vishakha Shivdasani, physician specialising in lifestyle related conditions, said findings from the LocalCircles survey show six in ten urban Indians do not consume protein rich foods daily.

    National, February 5, 2026: A large-scale nationwide consumer study has pointed to persistent gaps in daily protein consumption among urban Indians, despite growing awareness around health and nutrition. The study was commissioned by Country Delight in collaboration with LocalCircles and gathered more than 2,07,000 responses across 25 metropolitan and urban districts.The findings indicate that six out of ten urban respondents do not consume protein rich foods every day. Only four in ten reported including sources such as lentils, eggs, milk, paneer, fish, or nuts consistently in their daily meals. The data suggests that while health consciousness has increased, protein intake remains irregular in everyday diets.

    The study also highlights a significant awareness gap. Nearly 74 percent of respondents were unable to correctly identify the recommended daily protein requirement for an average adult, while 85 percent said they do not track or estimate their protein intake at all. Over half of those surveyed were unaware that protein deficiency can contribute to fatigue, muscle loss, weak immunity, and reduced energy levels.
    Affordability emerged as the primary barrier to regular protein consumption, followed by taste preferences and dietary restrictions. While most respondents indicated that protein rich foods are readily available in local markets, cost considerations and food choices were cited as limiting factors. Notably, 71 percent of respondents said they would be willing to switch to more affordable protein alternatives if such options were accessible.

    Commenting on the health implications, Vishakha Shivdasani said protein deficiency is often underestimated in India and affects muscle health, immunity, metabolic balance, and long-term wellbeing across age groups. She said protein should be viewed as a foundational nutrient rather than a fitness trend.
    Speaking on the survey insights, Chakradhar Gade said the findings reinforce the need to address affordability, awareness, and convenience together. He said Country Delight is expanding its range of high-protein everyday essentials to help consumers meet their nutritional needs through familiar foods rather than supplements.

    In line with the study’s findings, Country Delight has introduced High Protein Cow’s Milk, which delivers 30 grams of protein per 450 ml serving and meets 50 percent of the recommended daily allowance. The product uses natural filtration technology without added protein powders, stabilisers, or artificial ingredients. The company has also partnered with HRX to launch Mission Protein, a nationwide initiative aimed at improving protein awareness and access.
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  • Budget 2026 healthcare and biopharma focus shapes outlook for Morepen, Mankind Pharma, BSV, Park Hospitals, HCG Cancer Centre, MediJourn, Ramky Infrastructure, Anondita Medicare, JK Lakshmi Cement and others

    Sushil Suri of Morepen Laboratories, Sheetal Arora of Mankind Pharma, Sanjiv Navangul of BSV, Ankit Gupta of Park Medi World, Avik Chauhan of HCG Cancer Centre, Shaaz Mehmood of MediJourn, Sunil Nair of Ramky Infrastructure, Anupam Ghosh of Anondita Medicare and multiple healthcare leaders respond to Biopharma Shakti, duty relief on cancer drugs, medical tourism hubs and workforce expansion under Union Budget 2026–27

    The Union Budget 2026–27 places healthcare and biopharma at the centre of India’s human capital and economic growth strategy, with a strong focus on domestic manufacturing, affordability, workforce expansion and global competitiveness. Key announcements including the ₹10,000 crore Biopharma Shakti initiative, full basic customs duty exemption on 17 cancer drugs, expansion of medical tourism hubs, strengthening of clinical research infrastructure and skilling of allied healthcare professionals signal a long-term shift toward building resilient, patient-centric healthcare systems. Leaders across pharmaceuticals, hospitals, medical tourism, preventive healthcare and wellness have shared their perspectives on the implications of these measures.

    Sushil Suri, Chairman and Managing Director of Morepen Laboratories, said the Budget reinforces India’s position as a trusted global partner in pharmaceuticals and healthcare. He noted that the emphasis on biopharma manufacturing, ease of doing business, infrastructure creation and export competitiveness provides greater confidence to invest, innovate and expand globally while continuing to deliver affordable healthcare solutions.

    Sheetal Arora, Promoter and Chief Executive Officer of Mankind Pharma, said the Budget makes a timely choice by placing biopharma at the centre of India’s next manufacturing wave. He observed that the Bio Pharma Shakti initiative and regulatory upgrades will enable faster approvals, attract global investment and strengthen India’s leadership in advanced therapies, while duty exemptions on cancer and rare disease drugs improve patient access.

    Sanjiv Navangul, Chief Executive Officer of BSV, commented that the Budget provides much-needed momentum for India’s biopharma journey. He said the focus on innovation, research institutions, domestic production and regulatory strengthening will improve supply security, research capabilities and long-term health outcomes.

    Ankit Gupta, Managing Director of Park Medi World, said the Budget presents a comprehensive roadmap for strengthening healthcare delivery as India’s disease burden shifts toward non-communicable diseases. He noted that the addition of allied health professionals, caregiver training programmes and regional medical tourism hubs creates opportunities to scale specialised care, rehabilitation services and global patient outreach.

    Avik Chauhan, Cluster Chief Operating Officer of HCG Cancer Centre Mumbai, said the Budget strengthens the healthcare landscape at a critical time for patients. He observed that exemptions on cancer drugs and support for biopharmaceutical capabilities will ease financial burdens, expand access to innovative therapies and reduce dependency on imports.

    Shaaz Mehmood, Founder of MediJourn Solutions, said the announcement of five regional medical tourism hubs is a timely step that enhances India’s position as a global medical value travel destination. He noted that integrating modern healthcare with diagnostics, rehabilitation and AYUSH systems creates a coordinated ecosystem that improves scalability and service delivery.

    Sunil Nair, Chief Executive Officer of Ramky Infrastructure, said the Budget’s emphasis on biopharma parks, bulk drug parks and healthcare infrastructure strengthens India’s manufacturing and innovation ecosystem. He added that public capital expenditure and asset monetisation initiatives will support large-scale healthcare infrastructure development.

    Anupam Ghosh, Managing Director of Anondita Medicare, said the Budget’s focus on healthcare delivery and domestic manufacturing creates a supportive environment for preventive healthcare products. He noted that affordability, steady manufacturing and efficient distribution remain critical to ensuring access to family planning and reproductive health products across urban and rural markets.

    Suraj Punjabi, Co-Founder of Medicine Walla, said making essential medicines duty-free is a patient-centric decision that will help reduce treatment costs and strengthen last-mile healthcare delivery through community pharmacies.

    Ranjit Ghuliani, Medical Superintendent of NIIMS Hospital, said the Biopharma Shakti programme represents a paradigm shift by placing healthcare innovation at the centre of national growth. He observed that support for clinical trials, regulatory strengthening and tertiary care expansion will improve evidence-based treatment and reduce out-of-pocket expenditure.

    Dr. Ankita Mittal, Founder and Director of Adrita Menopause Wellness, said the increased focus on mental health is welcome but stressed the need for dedicated resources for women’s health, particularly menopause care. She noted that structured awareness, education and support systems are essential for equitable access.

    Sneha Rathor Khandelwal, Chief Executive Officer of Sanfort Group of Schools, said initiatives around digital labs, skilling and education-to-employment alignment will help build future-ready healthcare and life sciences talent over the long term.

    Sujay Shetty, Managing Director Health Industries at PwC, said the Budget sends a strong signal of intent for India’s biopharma sector through manufacturing support, skills development and faster regulatory approvals. He added that the emphasis on medical tourism and Ayurveda opens new avenues for innovation and exports.

    Dr. Suresh Kumar Chaudhari, Director General of The Fertiliser Association of India, noted that healthcare and nutrition linkages, particularly preventive care and affordability, will be shaped by coordinated execution across allied sectors.
    Sushil Suri, Chairman and Managing Director of Morepen Laboratories, added that alignment between healthcare manufacturing and export competitiveness supports India’s role as a reliable global healthcare supplier.
    Anjana Ghosh, Managing Director of Scale Sherpas, said the Budget’s focus on employment generation, women entrepreneurs and formal workforce models will benefit FMCG and healthcare consumption-driven industries.
    Dr. Ankit Gupta, Managing Director of Park Medi World, added that allied healthcare workforce expansion will strengthen long-term care, rehabilitation and geriatric services.
    Avik Chauhan, Cluster Chief Operating Officer of HCG Cancer Centre Mumbai, observed that affordability measures and clinical research support will improve long-term outcomes for chronic and cancer patients.
    Shaaz Mehmood, Founder of MediJourn Solutions, said effective execution and private sector participation will be key to scaling India’s medical tourism leadership.
    Taken together, responses from healthcare, biopharma, hospital networks, wellness providers and medical tourism stakeholders indicate that Budget 2026–27 marks a decisive step toward building a resilient, affordable and globally competitive healthcare ecosystem. With manufacturing, innovation, workforce development and patient access emerging as core pillars, industry leaders believe sustained execution will determine how effectively policy intent translates into improved health outcomes and long-term sectoral growth.
    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.

  • Apollo Hospitals International Health Dialogue 2026 Scheduled in Hyderabad

    Dr. Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals, says the January 30–31 forum will bring global healthcare leaders together to discuss patient safety, digital health, and system transformation

    Apollo Hospitals will host the 13th edition of the International Health Dialogue in Hyderabad on January 30 and 31, 2026. The forum has emerged over the years as a platform for discussion on patient safety, healthcare quality, innovation, and system level transformation, bringing together stakeholders from clinical practice, public policy, technology, and healthcare administration.
    The 2026 edition will be held under the theme “Global Voices. One Vision”, reflecting an intent to align leadership perspectives, technological advances, and patient centred approaches toward resilient healthcare systems. The programme will focus on leadership driven safety models, human centred design, digital transformation, and system wide excellence across hospital operations, patient experience, and clinical outcomes.

    Speaking ahead of the event, Dr. Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals Group, said the International Health Dialogue has grown into a space where clinicians, innovators, policymakers, and healthcare leaders engage in shared learning and exchange. She noted that the Hyderabad edition will examine how artificial intelligence, data, and digital ecosystems can be integrated with empathy, collaboration, and ethical responsibility to strengthen healthcare delivery. According to her, the dialogue reflects a global commitment to making healthcare more predictive, sustainable, and inclusive.

    International Health Dialogue 2026 will integrate four conferences and learning streams under a single platform. The International Patient Safety Conference will examine proactive approaches and systems that contribute to safer care. The Healthcare Operations and Patient Experience Conference will focus on operational excellence by linking efficiency, empathy, and innovation across the patient journey. The Transforming Healthcare with IT Conference will bring together healthcare and technology leaders to discuss advancements and best practices in digital health. CLINOVATE will examine the evolving role of diagnostics under the theme “The Future Ready Laboratory”, with sessions exploring how laboratories are becoming central to clinical decision making through automation, analytics, and artificial intelligence.
    The dialogue will host ministers and senior policymakers from multiple countries, including Hon. Col. Maj. Garba Hakimi, Minister of Public Health, Republic of Niger; Hon. Mr. Elias Kapavore, Minister of Health and HIV and AIDS, Papua New Guinea; and Hon. Prof. Jean Rosaire Ibara, Minister of Health and Population, Republic of Congo.

    Also participating will be leaders in healthcare quality, safety, and innovation, including Dr. Jonathan Perlin, President and Chief Executive Officer, The Joint Commission Enterprise; Dr. Carsten Engel, Chief Executive Officer, ISQua; Dr. Dean Ho, Head of the Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore; Dr. Atul Mohan Kochhar, Chief Executive Officer, NABH; Dr. Neelam Dhingra, Vice President and Chief Patient Safety Officer, Joint Commission International; and Dr. Eyal Zimlichman, Chief Innovation, Transformation and Artificial Intelligence Officer, Sheba Medical Center and Founding Director of ARC, Israel.
    The 2026 programme will also feature the Safe A Thon, a collaborative challenge designed to develop practical, scalable, and cost effective solutions to real world patient safety challenges. In addition, the forum will mark the launch of THNX, described as India’s first digital health startup community, which will host pitch sessions, funding discussions, and investor interactions.
    Through plenary discussions, technology demonstrations, innovation showcases, and networking forums, the International Health Dialogue 2026 will continue its role as a platform connecting public health leadership, clinical practice, technology, and patient advocacy, with a focus on translating dialogue into actionable improvement across healthcare systems.
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  • Greater clarity in gut health reporting emerges with the 2026 update from BugSpeaks

    Dr. Debojyoti Dhar, Co-founder and Director at Leucine Rich Bio, explains how the revised report translates microbiome data into practical health insights

    Understanding gut health data has often been a challenge for individuals and clinicians due to the technical nature of microbiome analysis. Addressing this gap, Leucine Rich Bio has released the 2026 update of its BugSpeaks Gut Microbiome Report, with a renewed focus on clarity, usability, and practical interpretation for everyday health decisions.
    The updated report builds on the company’s work in microbiome science since 2014 and reflects refinements developed over the past year. Complex microbial data is now presented using clearer visual cues, colour coding, and simplified categories, allowing users to quickly identify areas of balance and concern within their gut profile.

    Dr. Debojyoti Dhar, Co-founder and Director at Leucine Rich Bio, explained that the latest version represents the fourth iteration of the BugSpeaks report since its introduction in 2017. He noted that the update integrates recent scientific insights and internal data to make findings more actionable, enabling users to better understand how their gut microbiome relates to digestion, energy levels, and overall wellbeing.
    Among the key changes are colour coded scales that place individual microbiome results in context against healthy reference populations, along with a refined Rych Index Score displayed through an intuitive visual dial. The report also introduces a simplified overview of potential gut related risks, using three level indicators and percentage based likelihoods to support easier interpretation.

    Additional enhancements include expanded tables detailing key microbial species across different domains such as bacteria, archaea, and fungi. New parameters have also been added, covering areas such as potential microplastics exposure and micronutrient bioavailability, broadening the scope of information available to users.
    All parameters in the report are derived from individual microbiota profiles and are personalised in nature. The update retains existing features such as tailored nutrition plans, probiotic guidance, and insights related to short chain fatty acids and vitamins, while reinforcing that the report is intended for informational purposes and should be reviewed in consultation with healthcare professionals.
    Through these updates, Leucine Rich Bio continues to refine how microbiome science is communicated, aiming to bridge the gap between complex data and practical health understanding.

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  • Preventive health screening takes focus with MAHI Health Packages at Manipal Hospital Baner

    Dr. Pruthu Dhekane, Consultant Infectious Disease, and Anand Mote, Cluster Director at Manipal Hospital Baner, discuss the role of routine health checks in early detection

    Preventive healthcare is increasingly being recognised as a critical component of long-term wellbeing, particularly in identifying health risks before symptoms surface. In this context, Manipal Hospital, Baner has introduced the MAHI Health Packages, aimed at encouraging routine health check-ups and early diagnosis across different age groups.
    The initiative was formally unveiled during a launch programme attended by doctors, hospital staff and community representatives. Mrs. Lata Ayer, President of the Tathewade Jeshth Nagarik Sant Gyaneshwar Group, marked the launch of the MAHI Health Packages, underscoring the importance of awareness and timely screening, particularly among senior citizens.

    Addressing attendees, Dr. Pruthu Dhekane, Consultant Infectious Disease at Manipal Hospital Baner, highlighted that several metabolic and lifestyle-related conditions often progress silently without early symptoms. He noted that preventive health check-ups play a crucial role in early diagnosis, timely treatment and reducing the likelihood of complications. Dr. Dhekane also emphasised the role of proactive health monitoring in identifying individual risk factors and limiting the need for advanced interventions at later stages. He further pointed to the importance of timely vaccination as a preventive measure to reduce the spread and severity of infectious diseases across age groups, particularly among vulnerable populations.

    Speaking on the scope of the MAHI Health Packages, Anand Mote, Cluster Director at Manipal Hospital Baner, stated that preventive screening supports early identification of infections and associated risks, often before clinical symptoms appear. He explained that the packages are designed to offer age-appropriate screening options, enabling individuals to monitor their health proactively and address conditions that may otherwise remain undetected over time. He added that the initiative reflects the hospital’s continued focus on strengthening access to preventive healthcare and expert medical support for residents of Pune and surrounding areas.

    The programme concluded with the distribution of health education booklets to attendees, reinforcing the role of informed decision-making, regular screening and awareness in preventive healthcare practices.
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  • South Delhi gets a new luxury aesthetics centre with Metamorphosis Clinic expansion

    Dr. Neha Sachde said the Safdarjung Enclave facility reflects the clinic’s consultation-led approach to aesthetic care

    New Delhi, January 21, 2026: Metamorphosis Clinic has expanded its presence in Delhi with the opening of a new luxury aesthetics centre in Safdarjung Enclave, South Delhi. The facility brings together clinical dermatology, laser treatments, and non-surgical body contouring services at a single location.
    The centre is equipped with US FDA approved aesthetic machines and technologies sourced from the United States, Europe, and Germany. According to the clinic, the facility has been designed to support advanced skin, hair, laser, and body treatments while maintaining global safety and efficacy standards.

    The launch event was attended by Indian actors Aditi Govitrikar, Mahima Makwana, and Sayali Bhagat, who were present to mark the opening of the new centre.
    Dr. Neha Sachde, Chief Dermatologist at Metamorphosis Clinic New Delhi, said the expansion reflects the clinic’s long-standing focus on consultation-led aesthetic care rather than outcome-driven sales models. She said the clinic aims to support confidence through science-backed treatments and personalised clinical guidance.

    Metamorphosis Clinic was founded over a decade ago by Dr. Neha Sachde and Dr. Monica Gogia. The clinic follows a consultation-first approach that considers overall well-being while recommending aesthetic treatments, rather than centring care around perceived flaws.
    The Safdarjung Enclave centre offers a range of non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures, including laser systems, skin remodelling technologies, and non-surgical body contouring treatments selected to minimise downtime while delivering measurable clinical outcomes.
    The Delhi expansion marks a further step in the clinic’s growth as it continues to operate centres focused on dermatology-led aesthetic care across India.

    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.