PGI's project Sarthi struggles with volunteer training, patient assistance
PGI even requested the ministry of health and family welfare to consider emulating their model, and the ministry's governing body recently discussed the initiative.
While PGI administration claims that the NSS volunteers participating in project Sarthi underwent comprehensive training and capacity building to effectively assist patients, manage queues, provide information, and ensure smooth navigation within the hospital premises, ground realities paint a different picture. "The volunteers were unaware of the X-ray department and were seen asking patients to decongest the pathways," a patient visiting the OPD said.
PGI administration reported that around 42% of first-time visitors utilised Sarthi services, significantly reducing their average wait time from 4.2 hours to 2.8 hours. "However, if volunteers lack basic knowledge of the hospital layout, the reported reduction in wait times may not reflect a genuine improvement in patient experience," said a former PGI faculty member.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Addis Ababa: AI guru Andrew Ng recommends: Read These 5 Books And Turn Your Life Aroun...
Blinkist: Andrew Ng's Reading List
Undo
PGI proposed to its governing body, chaired by the Union minister of health, to consider Sarthi in the management of patient care. Thereafter, the body took note of the information and directed the institute to send details of the initiative's outcome to the ministry for examination.
During times of strikes in PGI, the administration has taken help from the volunteers to manage the patient queue. "Many years ago, this project started in PGI, and the students were assigned work in certain areas so that they were not confused. However, this time most of the volunteers are so young that they are not taken seriously by any patient or visitor," said an employee in PGI.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Here's what happens to your liver when you quit drinking alcohol
Here's the hard and bitter truth – for heavy and regular drinkers, quitting alcohol isn't an easy task. But here's the rewarding bit – the payoff is incredibly undeniable! Your liver, with its unique ability to regenerate, begins its recovery within days. When you stop drinking, your liver embarks on a dramatic healing journey – clearing fat, taming inflammation, repairing cells, and ramping up metabolism. Over weeks and months, vital functions like detoxification, digestion, hormone balance, and immunity come back online. As this course of action starts to take place, you feel lighter, clearer-headed, and more energetic, and you build resilience against future health risks. But recovery isn't instant – it unfolds in stages, depending on individual health, age, nutrition, and any existing damage. Whether you're on day one or day one thousand of your sober journey, remember: this is more than just an organ healing – it's your body giving you a second chance at vibrant health. Here's a deep dive – stage by stage – into the remarkable transformation your liver undergoes after quitting alcohol. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Do you have a mouse? Play this for 1 minute and see why everyone is crazy about it. Play Game Undo The starting line: Fatty liver (within days to weeks) Fat buildup reverses fast: When alcohol is removed from the equation, as per research , your liver can begin filtering fat from its cells immediately. According to studies, within just 7 days, liver enzymes normalize, and fat deposits start to disappear. Early inflammation drops: Reduced alcohol means less inflammation. Within the first week, inflammation markers fall, resulting in decreased puffiness, less joint stiffness, and clearer skin. Weeks 2–4: Powering up liver functions Enzymes and bile bounce back: By weeks 2–4, blood tests show big drops in ALT (Alanine transaminase), AST (Aspartate transaminase), and GGT (Gamma-glutamyl transferase) – key markers of liver stress. With reduced fat and inflammation, bile production resumes, improving digestion and lessening bloating. Restored glucose regulation: The liver reclaims its role in stabilizing blood sugar, helping balance energy throughout the day and nighttime periods. By one month: Deeper healing and reduced risk Functional liver recovery: After around a month of abstinence, many people notice their liver swelling down to normal size, and function returning to baseline. Lowered disease risk: Heart strain eases, blood pressure often drops, and markers reducing cancer risk (like insulin resistance) improve. Fibrosis slows: Though early scarring (fibrosis) can't always be undone, stopping drinking halts its progression and positions the liver to regenerate as much healthy tissue as possible. 2–6 months: A healthier organ and you Biomarkers rebalance: Most normal-range enzyme and bilirubin levels are restored by 8 weeks, and by 6 months, immune function is notably stronger. Energy, clarity, and mood improve: With optimized metabolism and less inflammation, you'll likely experience better sleep, sharper thinking, stabilized emotions, and less anxiety. Skin regains its glow: Rehydration and reduced toxin buildup help your skin recover its natural radiance. Beyond 12 months: Endurance and maintenance Long-term abstinence beyond a year is a gift to your liver: Scar smoothing: Fibrotic tissue can soften over years of healthy living—even in early cirrhosis, residual benefits are possible. Peak detox power: Your liver handles medications, infections, and metabolic waste more efficiently than ever. Boosted whole-body health: Better cardiovascular function, lower cancer risk, stronger immunity – your liver's gains ripple everywhere. Long-term: Cirrhosis and beyond Advanced healing is *sometimes* possible: Even in cirrhosis, stopping alcohol can slow further damage and improve survival. Some may see reduced scar tissue over time, especially when combined with lifestyle changes. Transplants are an option: For those with end-stage liver failure, a liver transplant can be life-saving, but requires lifelong sobriety. Prevention is key: Early intervention – quitting before irreversible scarring sets in – offers the best chance for full recovery. Life back on track: Tips to stay sober First things first – map your triggers. Track cravings, jot down when and why they occur to build awareness. Take the HALT approach. Monitor hunger, anger, loneliness, and tiredness – these can quickly increase craving risk. Limit alcohol exposure, remove it from your environment, and avoid high-risk places or people tied to drinking. Find new hobbies and activities, like exercise, volunteering, or creative pursuits, that can fill time and release endorphins. Daily structure, nutritious meals, regular sleep, and stress-relief practices like meditation or yoga strengthen resilience over time. Plan social outings and choose activities that aren't centered around drinking – museums, hiking, trivia, or game nights. In case there's a gathering, bring your own non‑alcoholic drink or scout places that serve mocktails or NA beers. Build a strong support network. Lean on trusted friends, family, sponsors, therapists, or peer groups like AA, SMART Recovery, or online communities. Count on in-person meetings, virtual groups, and mutual sober friends to provide both accountability and camaraderie. Continue professional engagements. Avoid skipping regular sessions with a counselor or addiction specialist who helps you tackle deeper issues and keep accountability. Finally, develop a relapse prevention plan. Recognize warning signs, like emotional relapse (craving), mental relapse (rationalizing), and physical relapse (drinking) – they often precede a full relapse. Pre-plan your responses and have a map ready in advance regarding what to do during a craving – call someone, leave the situation, or use a healthy distraction. Your liver is a regenerative marvel – but only if you give it space to heal. From day one, it starts clearing fat and dialing down inflammation. In a month, functions rebound. In six months to a year, whole-system health improves – energy, mood, metabolism, and immunity. And in time, even mild scarring can fade. This journey ain't a cakewalk, but it relies on your commitment – to staying sober, eating clean, moving well, and tracking progress. Your liver doesn't just heal – you heal with it. The information provided is intended for general awareness and educational purposes only. Individual experiences with liver recovery after alcohol cessation can vary widely based on factors such as the duration and extent of alcohol use, overall health, and existing liver conditions. While the liver has a remarkable ability to heal, certain conditions, like advanced cirrhosis, may not be fully reversible. For personalized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, please consult a qualified healthcare professional. Hidden dangers of excessive milk consumption
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
The liver detox you actually need: Less juice, more truth
The word detox has been hijacked. Walk into any wellness store or scroll through Instagram, and you'll find someone peddling a bright green juice, a detox tea, or a pricey supplement promising to 'cleanse your liver. ' It's marketed like your liver is a clogged drainpipe and all you need is celery juice to flush it clean. But here's the truth: your liver doesn't need trendy potions or crash diets to do its job. It's already one of the hardest-working organs in your body—filtering your blood, metabolizing fats, breaking down alcohol, and managing over 500 different functions. And unless you have a medical condition, it doesn't need detoxing. What it needs is support—less burden, more balance, and way fewer sugary drinks disguised as health elixirs. Here's the liver detox you actually need—no fancy juice cleanse required. The liver is your built-in detox machine It processes toxins, hormones, alcohol, fats, and medications. It filters your blood 24/7. It even stores vitamins and iron. It's basically your body's version of airport security, customs, and immigration all rolled into one So when people say 'I'm doing a liver detox,' what they really mean is: 'I've been pushing my liver too hard and I'm trying to help it recover.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Fair. But chugging three bottles of green juice isn't how you do that. The detox you don't need Let's clear up a few things right away: Detox teas and juices won't clean your liver. They may be hydrating, and some contain antioxidant-rich ingredients, but they can't magically pull fat out of your liver. Fasting or extreme cleanses may backfire. Rapid weight loss can worsen fatty liver disease in some cases. Over-the-counter detox kits can be risky. Some contain herbs or compounds that actually stress your liver more. Your liver needs nourishment and relief, not restriction and gimmicks. The real detox: How to actually support your liver Cut the sugar, not just the booze Yes, alcohol is a big player in liver damage. But so is sugar—especially fructose. Sugary drinks, sweets, pastries, and even so-called 'healthy' fruit juices spike fat production in the liver. The fix: Replace sweetened beverages with water, infused water, or herbal teas. Eat whole fruits instead of juice. Read labels—sugar hides under names like maltose, dextrose, and corn syrup. Eat more real, less processed Your liver likes simple, whole foods. Think leafy greens, cruciferous veggies (like broccoli and cauliflower), whole grains, beans, nuts, and lean protein. Why? Because these foods reduce inflammation, support gut health (which helps the liver), and prevent fat buildup. Fiber is your liver's bestie. Try this: Build your meals around half a plate of vegetables, one-quarter whole grains, and one-quarter protein. Olive oil and avocados? Also liver-friendly in moderation. Move your body (yes, that's a detox too) Exercise isn't just about burning calories. It literally helps the liver reduce fat, improve insulin sensitivity, and boost overall metabolic function. Aim for: 150 minutes a week of moderate activity—brisk walking, swimming, dancing, or cycling. Even daily 20-minute walks can reduce fat in the liver over time. Bonus: Exercise also reduces stress, which is crucial—because cortisol imbalance can affect liver function too. Sleep: The most underrated liver cleanse Poor sleep throws off your metabolism, increases cravings, and raises your risk of fatty liver disease. Your body (and liver) does its deepest repair work at night. Your goal: 7–9 hours of good-quality sleep. Set a bedtime routine, reduce screen time, and keep your room cool and dark. Stay hydrated, but skip the fancy waters Hydration is essential, but you don't need alkaline, charcoal-infused, or cucumber-kale-kombucha waters. Just plain ol' water supports every cell in your body, including your liver. Add a slice of lemon or mint if you want, but remember: the lemon isn't detoxing you—your liver is. Rethink supplements Some supplements like milk thistle or turmeric may support liver health, but they're not miracle workers—and some can be harmful if overused. Caution: High doses of vitamin A, green tea extract, or certain 'fat-burning' pills can actually hurt the liver. Always consult a doctor or registered dietitian before adding supplements. Watch the medicine cabinet Painkillers like acetaminophen (paracetamol), certain antibiotics, and even herbal remedies can put strain on your liver—especially if taken long-term or in high doses. Pro tip: Don't mix alcohol with medications, and don't self-medicate. When in doubt, ask your doctor. The fatty liver epidemic—and why it matters Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) now affects over a third of adults worldwide, including people who don't drink and those who aren't overweight. In India, NAFLD is rising alarmingly due to processed diets, sedentary jobs, and sugar-laden beverages. Left unchecked, NAFLD can lead to liver inflammation, scarring (fibrosis), and even cirrhosis. But here's the good news—it's reversible in its early stages, with lifestyle changes. 3 signs your liver might be overworked Your liver doesn't yell—it whispers. Look out for: Chronic fatigue or sluggishness Mild pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen Unexplained weight gain around the belly Other signs can include skin issues, brain fog, dark urine, or frequent headaches. Of course, these could mean a dozen other things—so don't panic. But do get a blood test if in doubt. What do experts say? Fatty liver disease—officially called Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)—doesn't get talked about nearly as much as diabetes or high blood pressure. One big reason? It usually shows no obvious symptoms in the early stages. That silence can be dangerous, because many people don't realize how serious it can get. But the truth is, it's shockingly common in India, affecting anywhere from 9% to over half the population, and it can progress to much scarier conditions like liver cirrhosis or even cancer if left unchecked. The good news? MASLD is often reversible. And you don't need a miracle drug—just some solid lifestyle changes. 'The most important steps to recovery are simple: eat better, exercise regularly, cut down on calories and saturated fats, and aim for sustainable weight loss,' says Dr. Alisha Chaubal, Principal Consultant of Hepatology at Nanavati Max Hospital in Mumbai. Sure, medication may help in some cases, but the real game-changer is sticking to a healthy routine. Now here's the tricky part—many people with sedentary lifestyles still feel perfectly fine, which makes it easier to ignore the warning signs. But as Dr. Uday Sanglodkar, another liver expert at Nanavati Max, points out, NAFLD (Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease) often creeps in quietly. And once it does, it can take you down a path of serious liver problems if you don't take action early. 'Being proactive with exercise and nutrition can make a huge difference. It's about protecting your liver before something goes wrong,' he says. There's also a genetic angle. According to Dr. Vishal Khurana, Director of Gastroenterology at Metro Hospital Faridabad, some people carry genes—like PNPLA3 and TM6SF2—that put them at higher risk. But he's quick to clarify: genetics are not destiny. 'Even if you have a genetic predisposition, a healthy lifestyle can keep the disease at bay. Regular exercise and early diagnosis go a long way,' he says. And here's what's really worrying—fatty liver disease isn't just an adult problem anymore. It's now showing up in children, and that's a major red flag. Why? Because it's closely tied to rising childhood obesity. Dr. Sanjiv Saigal, Head of Hepatology at Max Hospital in Saket, puts it bluntly: 'Today's kids are drinking too many sugary beverages, eating processed foods, and barely moving. They're spending more time on screens than on playgrounds, and that's a huge contributor to fatty liver in children. ' He warns that when kids are obese, it affects their fat metabolism and causes insulin resistance—two big triggers for liver issues at an early age. 'Lack of exercise, poor diet, and sedentary habits are creating a ticking time bomb for liver health in our younger generation,' he says. Fatty liver disease might be quiet at first, but it's not harmless. Whether you're a busy adult stuck at a desk all day or a parent watching your child spend hours on the iPad, now's the time to start caring about your liver. Because the earlier you act, the better your chances of avoiding serious trouble later. Your liver doesn't need a 7-day detox, a $60 juice cleanse, or a celeb-backed supplement with vague promises. What it does need is your respect. That means fewer toxins in, more real nourishment, and small, consistent lifestyle shifts. So next time you hear someone say, 'I'm doing a liver detox,' you can smile and say, 'Cool—I just slept 8 hours, skipped soda, walked 5K, and ate spinach. That's mine.' Trust your body. Trust your liver. And give it what it really needs—not what marketers are selling.
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
Listeria risk outbreak: FDA elevates recall of 400 boxes of organic blueberries
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated the recent recall of organic blueberries to the most severe classification – Class I. Originating from Alma Pak International LLC, based in Georgia, the voluntary recall on June 9 involved 400 boxes (each weighing 30 pounds) of organic blueberries after routine testing detected Listeria monocytogenes. These contaminated boxes, bearing lot numbers 13325 G1060 and 13325 G1096, were distributed to a single customer in North Carolina. The recall in detail: What you need to know On June 9, 2025, Alma Pak International LLC initiated a voluntary recall involving 400 boxes (30 lbs each) of their organic blueberries after routine testing revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. Although shipments were sent to just one North Carolina customer, the FDA's recent classification upgrade on July 1, 2025, to a Class I recall reflects the seriousness of the contamination, a category reserved for food products that could result in death or serious illness Identifying the affected product Company: Alma Pak International LLC (Georgia) Recall Date: June 9, 2025 Boxes Recalled: 400 Weight per Box: 30 lbs Lot Numbers: 13325 G1060, 13325 G1096 Distribution: One customer in North Carolina Consumers and vendors are urged to inspect their inventories and immediately dispose of any blueberries matching these details. What is a Listeria outbreak ? A listeria outbreak is a situation where two or more people get sick from eating food contaminated with the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. This can happen when food is processed, prepared, or stored in unsanitary conditions. Listeria outbreaks are typically identified when multiple individuals experience similar illnesses after consuming the same potentially contaminated food. Why is Listeria such a concern? Listeria monocytogenes is a pathogenic bacterium that thrives in refrigerated environments, unlike many other foodborne pathogens. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo While healthy individuals might experience mild symptoms, including fever, muscle aches, nausea, or diarrhea, the infection can escalate to more severe conditions, such as meningitis, particularly in those over 65, pregnant individuals, newborns, or the immunocompromised. According to FDA data, listeriosis is the third-leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the US, responsible for approximately 260 deaths annually. Listeriosis: Symptoms and prevention Listeria can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Listeriosis symptoms can range from mild, like fever and diarrhea, to severe, including meningitis or sepsis, especially in vulnerable populations. Listeria can be transmitted through contaminated food, and outbreaks are often linked to ready-to-eat foods like deli meats, soft cheeses, and smoked seafood. Proper food handling, including cooking to safe temperatures and avoiding high-risk foods, is crucial to prevent listeriosis.
