Latest news with #VikasDua
Hindustan Times
30-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Can you run out of blood if you donate? Doctor busts 8 myths about blood donation; shares facts
Blood donation is a noble and lifesaving act of public service. It involves drawing blood from a donor to be used for transfusions or other critical medical treatments. However, many people hesitate to donate due to persistent myths and misconceptions that often create unnecessary fear around the process. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Vikas Dua, principal director and head, of paediatric haematology, haemato oncology and bone marrow transplant, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram shared the common myths associated with blood donation and busted them with facts. Blood donation is an act of public service.(Unsplash) Fact: This is one of the most common misconceptions. In reality, the body quickly replaces the fluid lost during donation. Most people are back to normal within 24 hours, especially if they stay hydrated and rest afterward. Fact: Your body has about 10–12 pints of blood, and a typical donation takes just one pint. The bone marrow starts working right away to replace the lost red blood cells, which are fully replenished within a few weeks. Myth 3: Blood donation is painful. Fact: The only discomfort is the quick pinch of the needle. Most donors report minimal or no pain during the process. The entire donation usually takes less than 10 minutes. Also read | Can blood donation lead to weight gain in obese people? Doctor busts 4 myths Doctor busts myths about blood donation.(Unsplash) Myth 4: You can catch diseases from donating. Fact: This is simply not true. All blood donation equipment is sterile and used only once. There's zero risk of contracting infections like HIV or hepatitis through donation. Myth 5: People of a specific age can donate blood. Fact: In most countries, healthy individuals between 18 and 65 can donate, and in some cases even up to age 70. Teens (typically 16–17) may also be eligible with parental consent. Myth 6: You can't donate blood in you are on medication. Fact: Not all medications disqualify you. Common drugs like antihistamines or birth control usually don't prevent donation. It's best to check with the blood center. Myth 7: Vegetarians can't donate because their iron levels are too low. Fact: While iron is important, many vegetarians have healthy iron levels. A quick hemoglobin test is done before donation to ensure it's safe. Also read | Planning to donate blood? Doctor shares complete guide to everything you need to know, from eligibility to precautions Myth 8: One donation doesn't make a difference. Fact: Every single pint can save up to three lives. Whether it's trauma victims, cancer patients, or those undergoing surgery; your donation matters. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
30-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Are you having frequent infections? It can be sickle cell disease. Doctor shares 8 early warning signs to know
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a condition that directly affects the way the red blood cells of the body carry oxygen. This can lead to further complications. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Vikas Dua, principal director and head, of paediatric haematology, haemato oncology and bone marrow transplant, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram shared the early warning signs that we should watch out for. Also read | Sickle cell anaemia: What is it, warning signs and symptoms, causes, treatment Sickle cell disease affects the way the red blood cells of the body carry oxygen. These are one of the hallmark signs. The pain, which can be sharp or throbbing, usually hits the chest, back, arms, or legs. It can come on suddenly and last for hours or even days. Because sickled cells die faster and the body can't replace them quickly enough, most people with SCD live with some level of anemia. This results in feeling constantly tired or out of breath. 3. Swelling in hands and feet: Particularly common in young children, swelling happens when sickled cells block blood flow to the hands or feet, causing inflammation and discomfort. 4. Frequent infections: SCD can damage the spleen, an organ that helps fight infection. As a result, people—especially children—are more vulnerable to illnesses like pneumonia or meningitis. 5. Delayed growth and development: Children with SCD may grow more slowly or enter puberty later than their peers. This is usually due to a shortage of red blood cells and nutrients. 6. Yellowing of eyes or skin (jaundice): As red blood cells break down more quickly, the liver gets overwhelmed, leading to a buildup of bilirubin. This causes a yellow tint in the skin and eyes. 7. Vision problems: Tiny blood vessels in the eyes can get blocked by sickled cells, potentially causing vision changes or damage over time. 8. Shortness of breath or chest pain: These may indicate a serious complication called acute chest syndrome, which needs urgent attention. Also read | Early Clues, Lifelong Impact: Understanding Sickle Cell Disease Pain episodes are one of the early signs of sickle cell disease. When to seek medical help? Dr Vikas Dua further addressed the need of immediate medical intervention, if the following conditions persist: Severe or worsening pain: If the pain becomes unmanageable, lasts more than usual, or doesn't improve with medication, it's time to see a doctor. Pain that affects breathing or daily activities shouldn't be ignored. High fever (above 101°F / 38.3°C): Fever can be the first sign of a serious infection. Since people with SCD are more prone to infections, any fever—especially in children—should be treated seriously. Trouble breathing or chest pain: This could be a sign of acute chest syndrome, a life-threatening complication. Symptoms like rapid breathing, coughing, or chest tightness need immediate attention. Sudden weakness or numbness: These may signal a stroke. Other signs to watch for include difficulty speaking, facial drooping, or loss of coordination. These symptoms require emergency care right away. Prolonged or painful erection (priapism): In males, an erection lasting more than two hours can damage tissue. It's a painful but often overlooked complication that needs prompt treatment. Pale skin or extreme tiredness: This could suggest severe anemia or a sudden drop in red blood cell count. Quick evaluation is needed to avoid complications. Also read | Demystifying anemia: 7 lesser-known causes to be aware of Signs of dehydration or inability to eat/drink: Dehydration can worsen sickling. If someone with SCD stops eating or drinking or shows signs of severe dehydration, medical support is needed. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Business Standard
15-05-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Chintamanis Group Sets a New Benchmark in Timeless Luxury Living
NewsVoir New Delhi [India], May 15: Amidst the ever-evolving landscape of Indian real estate, Chintamanis Group is emerging as a name that embodies timeless elegance, ethical standards and visionary luxury. At the heart of this remarkable journey is Mr. Vikas Dua, a visionary leader, ethical entrepreneur, and respected stalwart of the industry whose commitment to excellence has set new standards across the sector. With over two decades of illustrious experience, Mr. Dua has not only built structures but has crafted legacies. A Chartered Accountant by qualification, he earned top distinctions during his academic tenure in London, one of the world's most competitive and prestigious financial hubs. But even as he scaled academic heights early in life, Mr. Dua always envisioned something greater--something that transcended balance sheets and built enduring value for society. Returning to India with a dream and a mission, Mr. Dua entered the real estate sector with a purpose--to redefine the way homes are designed, delivered, and lived in. His initial work on high-impact government infrastructure projects across Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Delhi's IGI Airport equipped him with deep-rooted technical knowledge and strategic foresight. In 2007, he laid the foundation for Oxirich Group, a brand that quickly gained repute for quality, trust, and timely delivery. In its early years, Oxirich was focused on affordable and accessible housing, catering to the growing needs of middle-income families with honesty and efficiency. Under his leadership, Mr. Dua successfully delivered 8 residential projects that were both practical and thoughtfully designed, earning trust and goodwill from thousands of journey reached a milestone in 2014-15, with the celebrated launch of Oxirich Avenue in Indirapuram--a bold foray into the luxury segment. The project not only elevated the brand's stature but also marked Mr. Dua's transition from affordable housing to timeless luxury development, where quality, design, and lifestyle converge. What sets Mr. Dua apart is not just his achievements, but the values that underpin them. With a zero-litigation track record, he has earned the rare and honorable title of "North India's Most Ethical Builder", a recognition conferred by the Minister of State from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO)--a testament to his unwavering integrity and distinguished leadership in an industry often challenged by ethical scrutiny. In a defining moment of purpose and spiritual evolution, Mr. Dua transitioned from Oxirich to Chintamanis, a name inspired and blessed by the world renowned spiritual guru Shri Prashant Sagar Ji Maharaj, who urged him to embrace the name as a symbol of divine fulfillment. "Chintamanis", meaning the wish-fulfilling jewel of the gods, a name rich in auspiciousness, divine grace, and purpose. For Mr. Dua, this was more than a rebranding; it was a higher calling to build homes that nurture the soul while elevating 2022, Mr. Dua elevated this vision further by launching a flagship luxury project on the Dwarka Expressway, in partnership with industry luminaries Mr. Amarjeet Singh Dhillon and Mr. Pankaj Hans. This milestone not only marked a new chapter in premium real estate but firmly established Chintamanis as a brand of elegance, heritage, and innovation. "Chintamanis is not just about homes--it's about building a timeless way of life, rooted in grace and guided by values," said Mr. Vikas Dua, Founder & Director. "We are here to create more than architecture--we're here to craft legacy." Carrying forward this legacy is the dynamic second-generation leadership of Ms. Aashi Dua, Executive Director of Chintamanis. A lawyer by qualification with a dual degree in law and business, Ms. Dua brings a rare blend of legal acumen, strategic thinking, and emotional intelligence to the brand. She represents the modern face of Chintamanis, where tradition meets innovation, shaping a future that is both responsible and aspirational. "At Chintamanis, we don't just build homes; we create soulful experiences that reflect how people aspire to live, feel, and belong," shares Ms. Aashi Dua, Executive Director of Chintamanis. "Luxury today is deeply personal--it's not just what you see, but how you experience it. True luxury lies in living with purpose, where sustainability, innovation, and conscious design come together to create spaces that are as responsible as they are beautiful." With a 2.4 million sq. ft. portfolio delivered, 1.6 million sq. ft. under development, and a land bank of 3.6 million sq. ft., Chintamanis continues to grow with its eyes on quality, its heart in the right place, and its legacy built on the rock-solid foundation of Mr. Vikas Dua's vision and values.
Fashion Value Chain
15-05-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Chintamanis Group Sets a New Benchmark in Timeless Luxury Living
Amidst the ever-evolving landscape of Indian real estate, Chintamanis Group is emerging as a name that embodies timeless elegance, ethical standards and visionary luxury. At the heart of this remarkable journey is Mr. Vikas Dua, a visionary leader, ethical entrepreneur, and respected stalwart of the industry whose commitment to excellence has set new standards across the sector. Mr. Vikas Dua, Founder & Director With over two decades of illustrious experience, Mr. Dua has not only built structures but has crafted legacies. A Chartered Accountant by qualification, he earned top distinctions during his academic tenure in London, one of the world's most competitive and prestigious financial hubs. But even as he scaled academic heights early in life, Mr. Dua always envisioned something greater-something that transcended balance sheets and built enduring value for society. Returning to India with a dream and a mission, Mr. Dua entered the real estate sector with a purpose-to redefine the way homes are designed, delivered, and lived in. His initial work on high-impact government infrastructure projects across Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Delhi's IGI Airport equipped him with deep-rooted technical knowledge and strategic foresight. In 2007, he laid the foundation for Oxirich Group, a brand that quickly gained repute for quality, trust, and timely delivery. In its early years, Oxirich was focused on affordable and accessible housing, catering to the growing needs of middle-income families with honesty and efficiency. Under his leadership, Mr. Dua successfully delivered 8 residential projects that were both practical and thoughtfully designed, earning trust and goodwill from thousands of journey reached a milestone in 2014-15, with the celebrated launch of Oxirich Avenue in Indirapuram-a bold foray into the luxury segment. The project not only elevated the brands stature but also marked Mr. Dua's transition from affordable housing to timeless luxury development, where quality, design, and lifestyle converge. What sets Mr. Dua apart is not just his achievements, but the values that underpin them. With a zero-litigation track record, he has earned the rare and honorable title of 'North India's Most Ethical Builder', a recognition conferred by the Minister of State from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO)-a testament to his unwavering integrity and distinguished leadership in an industry often challenged by ethical scrutiny. In a defining moment of purpose and spiritual evolution, Mr. Dua transitioned from Oxirich to Chintamanis, a name inspired and blessed by the world renowned spiritual guru Shri Prashant Sagar Ji Maharaj, who urged him to embrace the name as a symbol of divine fulfillment. 'Chintamanis', meaning the wish-fulfilling jewel of the gods, a name rich in auspiciousness, divine grace, and purpose. For Mr. Dua, this was more than a rebranding; it was a higher calling to build homes that nurture the soul while elevating 2022, Mr. Dua elevated this vision further by launching a flagship luxury project on the Dwarka Expressway, in partnership with industry luminaries Mr. Amarjeet Singh Dhillon and Mr. Pankaj Hans. This milestone not only marked a new chapter in premium real estate but firmly established Chintamanis as a brand of elegance, heritage, and innovation. 'Chintamanis is not just about homes-it's about building a timeless way of life, rooted in grace and guided by values,' said Mr. Vikas Dua, Founder & Director. 'We are here to create more than architecture-were here to craft legacy.' Carrying forward this legacy is the dynamic second-generation leadership of Ms. Aashi Dua, Executive Director of Chintamanis. A lawyer by qualification with a dual degree in law and business, Ms. Dua brings a rare blend of legal acumen, strategic thinking, and emotional intelligence to the brand. She represents the modern face of Chintamanis, where tradition meets innovation, shaping a future that is both responsible and aspirational. 'At Chintamanis, we don't just build homes; we create soulful experiences that reflect how people aspire to live, feel, and belong,' shares Ms. Aashi Dua, Executive Director of Chintamanis. 'Luxury today is deeply personal-it's not just what you see, but how you experience it. True luxury lies in living with purpose, where sustainability, innovation, and conscious design come together to create spaces that are as responsible as they are beautiful.' With a 2.4 million sq. ft. portfolio delivered, 1.6 million sq. ft. under development, and a land bank of 3.6 million sq. ft., Chintamanis continues to grow with its eyes on quality, its heart in the right place, and its legacy built on the rock-solid foundation of Mr. Vikas Dua's vision and values.
