Latest news with #NaruviHospitals
The Hindu
3 days ago
- Health
- The Hindu
Early diagnosis, simple lifestyle changes can prevent GERD complications: experts
Doctors stressed the need for early diagnosis and simple lifestyle changes to prevent further complications on GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), a digestive disorder, at a webinar 'GERD-free Living: From Burn to Balance' on Sunday. The discussion was the final episode of the 15-part webinar series under the 'Healthy India Happy India initiative' by Naruvi Hospitals in collaboration with The Hindu. A panel of gastroenterologists, including E. Rabindranath and Jacob Raja A.S., both consultants at Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore, along with A.C. Arun, clinical lead, Gastroenterology at Lily Mission Hospital, Madurai, spoke on common concerns over GERD. Explaining the digestive system and the role of esophageal sphincter, Dr. Jacob said that the sphincter acts as the gateway between the lower esophagus and the stomach to prevent regurgitation. 'When the Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER) happens multiple times in a week impacting quality of life, work and sleep and causes symptoms such as persistent heart burn, chest pain, trouble in swallowing, then it can turn into a chronic medical condition called the GERD and requires treatment,' he said. Dr. Jacob said the global burden of GERD was quite high — one in every five individuals — with Europe, North America and parts of Asia reporting high numbers of cases. In comparison, India reports fewer cases, but its prevalence is increasing in young adults given their unhealthy lifestyle and eating habits. Speaking on diagnosis, lifestyle changes and management of GERD, Dr. Rabindranath advised people to quit smoking and alcohol consumption and avoid spicy and fatty foods and late night meals. He also advised against sedentary lifestyle and stress and for practising intake portion control and weight management. 'GERD mimics include heart issues, esophageal disorders, stomach issues, anxiety episodes, and panic attacks; therefore, medical consultation is important,' he added. Sharing tips to manage GERD, he advised 'elevating the head during sleep, keeping a gap of three to four hours between dinner and sleep, sleeping on the left side and wearing loose clothes while exercising'. Focusing on treatment, Dr. Arun spoke on how endoscopy helps to identify the complications and anatomical damage due to reflux episodes. 'Leaving GERD symptoms untreated could lead to esophageal ulcers and strictures making it difficult to swallow food, vomiting of blood and pre-cancerous condition. Minor surgeries, medication and endoscopic procedures help in arresting the progress of the disease,' he said.
The Hindu
5 days ago
- Health
- The Hindu
Naruvi Hospitals, The Hindu to jointly host webinar on management of GERD
Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore, in association with The Hindu, is presenting a webinar on 'GERD-Free Living: From Burn to Balance', at 11.30 a.m. on July 20. This is a part of the 'Healthy India, Happy India' webinar series — a 15-part initiative on the theme of 'Prevent Illness, Promote Wellness'. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is an increasingly common lifestyle disorder that affects individuals across all age groups. This webinar aims to raise awareness of GERD by addressing its early symptoms, methods of accurate diagnosis, available treatment options, and sustainable lifestyle changes to effectively manage and prevent the condition. This 15th session in the series brings together a panel of doctors who will share their insights on GERD: E. Rabindranath, consultant gastroenterologist, Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore will speak on 'Diagnosis, Lifestyle Changes and Managing GERD', while Jacob Raja A. S, consultant gastroenterologist, consultant in infectious diseases, Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore will speak on 'Introduction and Symptomatology of GERD'. A. C. Arun, clinical lead, gastroenterology, Lily Mission Hospital, Madurai, will elaborate on the 'Treatment of Refractory GERD'. Soma Basu, Senior Deputy Editor, The Hindu will moderate the session. E-certificates will be issued to all those who register for the webinar. To register, visit or scan the QR code.
The Hindu
08-07-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Vitamin D deficiency poses public health challenge, say experts
Vitamin D deficiency has reached epidemic proportions in India, and ignoring it could have serious health consequences, experts said on Sunday during a webinar on 'Vitamin D Deficiency: Myths vs Reality'. The session, the 14th in a 15-part series under the 'Healthy India, Happy India' initiative, was jointly presented by Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore, and The Hindu. Kurien Thomas, senior consultant physician and clinical epidemiologist at Naruvi Hospitals, pointed out that despite the ease with which Vitamin D can be synthesised through sun exposure, a vast majority of Indians — estimated between 40% to 90% — are deficient. 'Lifestyle changes like staying indoors, use of sunscreen, and sun-protective clothing are significant contributors to this silent crisis,' he said. Calling it the 'Sunlight Vitamin', Dr. Kurien said Vitamin D plays a vital role in bone health and calcium absorption. Its deficiency can lead to rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. 'Environmental pollution, vegetarian diets, lack of supplements, old age, and co-morbidities are other contributing factors,' he added. He urged mid-day sun exposure and dietary inclusion of fish, meat, egg yolk, fortified dairy products and mushrooms. However, since only 20% of orally consumed Vitamin D is absorbed, he recommended supplements, especially for at-risk groups. D. Aneesh Basheer, professor of medicine at SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Chennai, addressed the needs of high-risk individuals such as the elderly, patients with chronic illnesses, those on certain medications, and people with limited mobility or dietary intake. He explained the thresholds for deficiency and called for targeted screening and fortified food options, while cautioning about the potential toxicity of excess Vitamin D due to its fat-soluble nature. Pranita Vanjare, consultant in geriatrics and internal medicine at Naruvi Hospitals, elaborated on the extra-skeletal effects of Vitamin D. 'It supports not just bone and muscle health but plays a broader role in regulating blood pressure, reducing inflammation and potentially lowering the risk of Type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, respiratory infections, and certain cancers,' she said. The webinar can be viewed here .
The Hindu
04-07-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Webinar on ‘Vitamin D Deficiency: Myths vs Reality' to be held on July 6
Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore, in collaboration with The Hindu, will present a webinar on 'Vitamin D Deficiency: Myths vs Reality', at 11.30 a.m. on Sunday (July 6). This is the 14th webinar in the 15-part series organised as part of the 'Healthy India, Happy India' initiative. The session will focus on the widespread prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency in India, aiming to dispel common misconceptions and offer clinical guidance on maintaining optimal levels for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. Kurien Thomas, senior consultant, physician and clinical epidemiologist, Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore, will speak on 'Myths & Realities in Vitamin D Related to Bone and Mineral Metabolism', while Pranita Vanjare, consultant, Geriatrics and Internal Medicine, Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore, will elaborate on 'Extra-Skeletal Manifestations of Vitamin D'. Aneesh Basheer, professor of medicine, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Chennai, and consultant, Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore, will speak on 'High-Risk Groups and Vitamin D Deficiency'. Soma Basu, senior deputy editor, The Hindu, will moderate the session. E-certificates will be issued to those who register. For details, go to or scan the QR code.
The Hindu
20-06-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Webinar to focus on use of gadgets and ENT health
Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore and The Hindu are organising a webinar on 'Gadgets in ENT' on June 22. This event is part of the 'Healthy India, Happy India' initiative, a series of 15 webinars aimed at promoting health awareness, disease prevention, and overall wellness across India. The webinar, scheduled to be held at 11.30 a.m., is the 13th instalment in the series. With the increasing use of gadgets, such as earphones, Bluetooth devices, and industrial equipment, ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat) health has become a growing concern. This webinar aims to explore the impact of modern technology and workplace noise on hearing and overall ENT wellness. The session will shed light on early warning signs, preventive strategies, and safe gadget usage practices often overlooked in everyday life. Mary Kurien, professor and head, Department of ENT, Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore will speak on 'How can we identify ENT-related problems early, and what precautions can help prevent them?' during the session. Vikram M, consultant, Department of ENT, Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore will speak on 'Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Industrial Workplaces', while Sadhana Chandrababu, advanced audiology practitioner, Powys Teaching Health Board, NHS, United Kingdom will elaborate on the topic - 'Which gadgets can lead to hearing loss, and how do they affect our hearing?'. Soma Basu, senior deputy editor, The Hindu will moderate the session. E-certificate of participation will be issued to those who register for the webinar. To register, visit or scan the QR code.
