September is the month of celebration for PCOS Awareness Month worldwide — the awareness month for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), one of the most common hormonal disorders among the reproductive age group of women.
In B. P. Poddar Hospital & Medical Research Limited, we believe that awareness is the initiation of the process for early diagnosis, better management, and improved quality of life for women with PCOS.
What is PCOS?
PCOS is a condition of hormonal imbalance where the ovaries produce excessively high amounts of androgens (male hormones). PCOS can affect ovulation and lead to symptoms that can affect both mental and physical health.
Reading the Signs
PCOS is often underdiagnosed because its symptoms vary for the individual woman. Some of the characteristic signs include:
- Irregular or missed menstruation
- Unintentional weight gain, or unwanted pounds, can frequently
- Excessive growth of hair on the chest, back, or face
- Chronic Acne and Oily Skin
- Thin or balding hair on the scalp
- Difficulty conceiving
If you experience any of these symptoms, consulting a gynaecologist early is crucial for proper evaluation and treatment.
Why Awareness Matters
PCOS is more than a matter of being irregular — it can cause severe future health issues like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and even endometrial problems if it is not treated properly. Through raising awareness, we can make women more inclined toward seeking help early and dealing with PCOS properly.
Busting Common Myths
- Myth: PCOS only affects overweight women.
Fact: PCOS can affect women of any size or shape.
- Myth: PCOS makes pregnancy impossible.
Fact: PCOS women conceive normally or with the aid of medication after proper management.
- Myth: Irregular menstrual cycles are normal and harmless.
Fact: Irregular cycles will lead to issues and must be evaluated by a doctor.
Effectively Handling PCOS
Even though PCOS can never be cured, it can be efficiently managed through:
- Healthy Lifestyle: Balanced eating, daily physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight.
- Medical Therapy: Hormonal therapy, insulin-sensitising drugs, and fertility drugs if required.
- Mental health counselling: Therapy or stress-reduction techniques for the psychological effects of PCOS.
Our Commitment
At B. P. Poddar Hospital & Medical Research Limited, we will endeavour for:
- Delivering an exact diagnosis with up-to-date tests and imaging
- Individualised tailoring of patient-specific treatment plans
- Organising awareness campaigns and health lectures for informing the populace regarding PCOS
Take Action for PCOS Awareness Month
If you think you might have PCOS, don't wait for help. Getting it early can help prevent complications and give you more management over your health.
Book an appointment with our Gynaecology Department today and take one step further toward a healthier, more balanced tomorrow. Together we can shatter the taboo, raise awareness, and stand with women all over the world on the path to improved health.
World Lymphoma Awareness Day is celebrated once a year on the 15th of September in a bid to increase awareness about lymphoma, a type of blood cancer affecting the lymphatic system, a part of the immune system. The day is used as a platform for telling the masses about the early signs of lymphoma, promoting early diagnosis and encouraging better survival rates through awareness and effective care.
What is Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a cancer the source of which is lymphocytes, the white blood cells whose task it is to battle infection. They are located in various parts of the body like the lymph nodes, the spleen, and the bone marrow. When the cells start dividing and growing spontaneously and uncontrollably, they acquire lymphoma.
There are two general groups of lymphoma:
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Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL)
- Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)
Both of these phenomena may affect all age groups; yet, specific ones are more common in certain ages.
Why Awareness Matters
Early detection plays a key role in successful treatment. Unfortunately, lymphoma symptoms can be vague and easily mistaken for common illnesses like the flu or infections. Increasing public knowledge helps more people recognize the warning signs sooner and seek medical help early.
Common Symptoms of Lymphoma
Look for the following potential indicators:
- Unexplained fever
- Night sweats
- Sudden weight loss
- Chronic fatigue
- Rash or itching skin
If you or someone you know is having these symptoms for longer than two weeks, you should see a doctor for more testing.
Dispelling the Myths
Most individuals think lymphoma can affect elderly individuals only, but this is not the case. Lymphoma may occur in children, teenagers, and elderly individuals. Screening allows for no symptom going unnoticed, even at any age.
Sponsoring Patients and Families
Each day also provides an opportunity for showing solidarity for lymphoma-diagnosed individuals and their care providers. Support groups, counseling support, and community campaigns also support the patient in staying mentally strong during the treatment and recovery periods.
How You Can Assist
- Learn & Share: Educate others and share about lymphoma.
- Support Patients: Attend awareness events, share about survivors, or volunteer.
- Donate: Donating to cancer research institutions and support groups.
- Urge for Check-Ups: Early diagnosis is a lifesaver — remind family members and friends to consult a doctor should they experience any symptoms.
Our Commitment
At B. P. Poddar Hospital & Medical Research Limited, we believe in early identification, precise diagnosis, and comprehensive treatment of haematological malignancies like lymphoma. Our team of professionals stands ready to assist the patient at any point in the process - diagnosis and recovery.
The week is observed annually in India from the 1st to the 7th of September. The reason is to create awareness of the importance of well-balanced nutrition and healthy eating of food. Not only is nutrition crucial for the bodily health of a person but also for the mental condition of a person, protection from disease and overall well-being of a person.
Why Nutrition Matters
Not only is the body nourished with food, it is medicine and armour as well. A balanced plate:
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Gives strength for the day's work
- Strengthens the immune system
- Helps children in proper growth and development
- Prevents lifestyle disorders such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity
- Promotes healthy skin, hair, and ageing
Theme of National Nutrition Week 2025
The theme of National Nutrition Week is different each year and highlights the core emphasis of nutrition. The theme for the current year is focused on "Nutrition for All: A Healthier India", with a particular emphasis on equal access of nutritious food to all elements of society.
Basic Tips for Daily Life on Nutrition
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Eat all-colored meals: Incorporate a variety of vegetables and fruits for the intake of minerals and vitamins.
- Hydrate properly: Drinking sufficient water is no less significant than eating the appropriate food.
- Go for whole grains: Substituting refined flour with whole wheat, oats, or brown rice.
- Limit consumptions of fast food and sugary drinks and high-salt intake.
- Eat consciously: Eat intentionally and do not overindulge.
Nutritional Role in the Prevention of Diseases
Correct nutrition is one of the strongest weapons in the battle against the modern health issues. It is effective in lowering the chances of anemia, high blood pressure, digestion disorders, and even certain cancers. A nutrient-rich diet enhances the immunity level, and that is more relevant in the present era where infections and lifestyle disorders are gaining momentum.
Conclusion
National Nutrition Week is more than a celebration but a timely reminder of making small but effective changes in our day-to-day life. By opting for the correct food today helps in a better future ahead.
Kidney stones are a common health condition in humans around the globe. Of all kinds of kidney stones, calcium oxalate stones are its most prevalent form responsible for about 70% of all kidney stones. But what are its actual causes? How is it preventable? Let's take a closer look.
What are kidney stones?
Kidney stones are solid deposits composed of salts and minerals which develop within the kidneys. Kidney stones vary in size; some are as tiny as a piece of sand while some are as large as a pebble or even larger. When passing through the urinary tract system, kidney stones result in sharp pains accompanied by blood in urine as well as pains.
The Rate of Calcium Oxalate Stones
Calcium is an essential mineral essential for bone integrity and general health; it can, though , crystallize when it comes into contact with oxalate, a naturally occurring compound found in some foods, thus forming kidney stones. It tends to form more easily in the following situations:
.
-
A decrease in fluids leads to concentration of urine.
- You regularly consume a diet rich in oxalate-bearing foods
- You are at genetic risk for kidney stones
- You are found to have some medical conditions like hyperparathyroidism, obesity, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Foods Rich in Oxalates That May Elevate Risk
Individuals at risk for developing kidney stones are not so much requesting complete elimination of oxalate bearing foods; there is a need for some level of moderation. Certain foods which are worthy of consideration are:
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Spinach
- Beet
- Nuts (almonds, cashews, peanuts, etc.)
- Chocolate and cocoa foods
- Black tea
- Soft drinks and colas
Strategies for Optimization of Prevention for Kidney Stones
These are certain simple yet effective lifestyle changes for you to protect your kidneys:
1. Remain Well-Hydrated
Hydration is most crucial. Ensure you consume at least 2–3 liters daily in an attempt to pull excess minerals out.
2. Moderate Oxalate-Rich Foods
rather than completely cutting out oxalate foods, accompany them with calcium-rich food (such as milk or yogurt). Calcium combines with oxalate in the stomach and stops it bonding in stones in the kidney.
3. Limit Processed and Salt Intake
Increased salt intake elevates urine calcium, which may exacerbate stone formation.
4. Select Nutrient-Density Drinks
Reduce consumption of colas, energy drinks, and over-drinking black tea. Drink water, lemon water, or herbal tea.
5. Live a Healthy Life STYLE
Maintain a proper weight for your body, stay physically active, and adopt a balanced lifestyle for minimizing recurrent occurrence of stones.
When To Call Your Physician
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Call for medical attention if you feel:
- Sudden sharp or severe Pain in Back or Flank.
- Blood in your urine
- Recurring vomiting or nausea.
- Difficulty passing urine
Ignoring such symptoms can lead to kidney infections or extended impairment.
Closing Comments
Kidney stones, especially those made up of calcium oxalate, can be significantly prevented by proper lifestyle decisions. By drinking plenty of fluids, balancing food consumption containing oxalate, and eating a balanced meal, people can lower their risk considerably.
Here at B. P. Poddar Hospital & Medical Research Limited, our professionals are dedicated to delivering exceptional care and counselling in maintaining health for your kidneys. From laser kidney stone removal (RIRS) to painless PCNL; whether you are dealing with issues in kidney stones or if you are in need of information about prevention, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Call us on 6292235652 or visit doctor booking.
June is Aphasia Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on a communication disorder that affects more people than many realize. Despite its prevalence, aphasia remains widely misunderstood. This month, we stand in support of individuals living with aphasia, their caregivers, and the healthcare professionals working tirelessly to improve their quality of life.
What Is Aphasia?
Aphasia is a neurological disorder caused by damage to the language-processing centers of the brain, most often resulting from a stroke, traumatic brain injury, or progressive neurological conditions. It can affect speaking, understanding, reading, and writing—while intelligence remains intact.
Aphasia does not discriminate. It affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. According to the National Aphasia Association, over 2 million people in the U.S. alone live with aphasia, yet nearly 85% of the population has never heard of it.
Why Awareness Matters
Lack of awareness creates barriers. Many individuals with aphasia face frustration, social isolation, and even misdiagnosis. Raising awareness helps create a more inclusive and empathetic world where those living with aphasia can thrive with dignity.
By learning simple ways to communicate—like using visuals, gestures, or giving people more time to respond—we can all contribute to breaking down these barriers.
How You Can Support
- Educate Yourself and Others: Share resources, infographics, and videos that explain aphasia in simple terms.
- Be Patient and Kind: Communication takes time—offer encouragement, not correction.
- Support Advocacy Groups: Organizations like the National Aphasia Association provide resources, therapy options, and community support.
- Use Your Platform: Whether on social media or in your workplace, speak up about aphasia. A simple post can make a big difference.
Words May Be Lost—But Not the Person
People with aphasia are not less intelligent or less human. They are artists, teachers, parents, friends—just people trying to connect. This month, and every month, let’s replace silence with support and confusion with compassion.
Let’s talk about aphasia. Let’s listen. Let’s make every voice heard.
Every year on June 14, the world comes together to celebrate World Blood Donor Day—a day dedicated to thanking voluntary, unpaid blood donors for their life-saving gifts of blood and raising awareness about the need for regular blood donations.
Why Is World Blood Donor Day Important?
Blood is an essential resource for both planned treatments and emergency interventions. It is used in a wide range of clinical situations including:
- Accidents and trauma
- Surgical procedures
- Cancer treatments
- Maternal and neonatal care
- Management of blood disorders like thalassemia and hemophilia
Yet, safe blood is in short supply—especially in low- and middle-income countries. World Blood Donor Day is a reminder of how vital it is to maintain a steady and safe blood supply through voluntary donations.
2025 Theme: “20 Years of Celebrating Giving: Thank You Blood Donors!”
This year marks the 20th anniversary of World Blood Donor Day. The theme honors two decades of generosity from global donors who selflessly roll up their sleeves to save lives. It also serves as a call to action: Let’s ensure blood donation remains a strong, voluntary act of community solidarity.
Did You Know?
- single donation can save up to three lives.
- Donating blood takes just 15–20 minutes.
- You can donate blood every 3 months (for men) and every 4 months (for women).
Who Can Donate?
You are generally eligible to donate blood if:
- You are between 18 and 65 years old
- You weigh at least 50 kg
- You are in good health and free from any transmissible infections
Pro tip: Always hydrate and eat a light meal before donation!
How You Can Celebrate World Blood Donor Day?
- Donate blood if you're eligible
- Organise or join a local blood drive
- Spread awareness on social media using hashtags like #WorldBloodDonorDay
- Thank a donor you know personally
- Learn more about the science and safety behind blood donation
A Heartfelt Thank You ❤️
To everyone who donates blood: your compassion and courage mean the world. You may never meet the people you help—but their lives are forever changed because of you.
This World Blood Donor Day, let’s commit to keeping the blood flowing—because every drop counts and every donor is a hero.
Every year, World Malaria Day is a somber reminder of the collective effort needed to end one of the world's most deadly infectious diseases. Malaria is preventable and curable, yet it kills hundreds of thousands of people every year. This year's theme, "Accelerate the Fight. Save Lives," calls on all of us—governments, health workers, organizations and individuals—to accelerate efforts against the disease.
Understanding Malaria
Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites, transmitted to humans from bites by infective Anopheles mosquitoes. Malaria symptoms like chills, fever, and influenza-like illness will quickly lead to severe complications if not treated.".
Despite the availability of low-cost preventive interventions and diagnostic tools, malaria still endangers over 3 billion people globally, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia, like in India.
Our Commitment
As a health care provider, we are dedicated to:
- Creating prevention and early detection awareness of malaria.
- Enabling diagnostic and therapeutic services in the impacted communities.
- Providing the patients with education regarding the significance of wearing mosquito nets, repellents and hygiene.
- Collaborating with public health practitioners in disease surveillance and disease control programs.
Our hospital also promotes the importance of patients getting medical attention early if they have symptoms, particularly after traveling to risk areas.
Progress in India
India has made remarkable progress in reducing the malaria case burden and is poised to significantly contribute to malaria elimination by the year 2030. The efforts coordinated by the National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) and state governments have significantly reduced the disease burden.
But constant efforts and people's involvement are needed to sustain this momentum.
Did You Know?
- Under 5 years and women who are pregnant are most susceptible to serious malaria.
- Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) identify malaria in minutes so that treatment can be administered promptly.
- Urbanization and global warming are major challenges to malaria control.
Join the Fight
Today, on this World Malaria Day, we call upon all to join the global fight against malaria. Whether by raising awareness, taking preventive action, or contributing to community efforts, every effort counts.
Together, we can move towards a malaria-free world. If you or someone you know is showing symptoms of malaria, do not hesitate to seek medical care. Early treatment will be lifesaving. For appointments or inquiries visit doctor booking.Is Chewing Gum Actually Plastic?
Chewing gum seems innocent enough, but did you know that synthetic plastics are the primary ingredients used to make most gums? The "gum base" used in many of them contains items such as polyethylene, polyvinyl acetate, and butyl rubber—materials that won't degrade and aren't biodegradable. So by chewing gum, we're not only getting our fill of the taste—we're ingesting plastic without even knowing it.
The Study: Microplastics in Your Saliva
Recently a pilot study proved surprising and frightening information: the chewed gum is able to discharge microplastic particles in saliva. When chewing, according to researchers' finding, about an average of 100 particles per gram is emitted from gum with up to 637 from the most heavily polluted samples. Mostly these microplastics escape after a couple of minutes or at most remain inside the mouth as well as can be swallowed.
This pioneering study is among the first to actually quantify microplastics entering the human body via chewing gum—a casual activity we all do daily.
Health & Environmental Risks
Microplastics have already been associated with possible health issues like hormonal imbalance, inflammation, and cell damage. Although further studies are necessary to fully realize the long-term implications of chewing gum-based microplastics, the fact that we might be consuming plastic on a regular basis should not be dismissed.
Environmentally, the effect is even more apparent. More than 1.74 trillion pieces of chewing gum are manufactured worldwide annually, many of which become street litter and sidewalk trash. These used gums ultimately disintegrate into microplastics, which cause widespread pollution.
The Way Forward: Eco-Friendly Gum Alternatives
There is good news too—some brands have now created plastic-free chewing gum made from natural ingredients such as chicle, a tree sap. They are biodegradable and far healthier for our bodies and the planet.
We can do our part as consumers by:
- Reading labels on chewing gum products before we buy
- Selecting brands that employ natural gum base
- Helping companies that are honest about what they put in their products
Final Thoughts
Chewing gum may appear to be a little habit, but this new study reveals it can have surprising effects on our health and the planet. Since we're becoming increasingly aware of the secret microplastics in the things we use, it's time to reconsider what we put in our mouths—beginning with gum.
Each year, World Autism Acceptance Week is celebrated around the world to raise awareness, understanding, and acceptance of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The week reminds us to make society inclusive, where people with autism can live with dignity and respect.
Comprehending Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting communication, social interaction, and behaviour. Autism is referred to as a "spectrum" disorder because it affects each individual differently. Individuals with autism may require a high level of support throughout their lifetimes, or they may require little to no accommodations to lead independent lives.
Significance of Autism Acceptance
Although awareness is needed, actual progress occurs through acceptance. Acceptance is seeing the potential and special strengths of autistic people instead of their weaknesses. It is a call to society to offer greater opportunity in school, work, and social interaction for autistic people.
How Do We Support Individuals with Autism?
- Spreading Awareness: Educate yourself and others on autism to eliminate myths and misconceptions.
- Inclusive Space Design: Public areas, the workplace, and schools must be accessible to people with autism.
- Promoting Communication: Recognizing that people with autism might be communicating differently and being tolerant of their requirements.
- Empowering Families: the families of autistic individuals require assistance, advice, and access to resources.
- Encouraging Better Policies: Governments and institutions need to adopt policies that promote better opportunity for autistic individuals.
B. P. Poddar Hospital's Dedication to Autism Treatment
We at B. P. Poddar Hospital understand how crucial it is to treat and diagnose autism early in life. Our board of experts offers paediatric neurological treatment, therapy and counselling services to children as well as families. We make sure every child gets the treatment they need to achieve their full potential.
This World Autism Acceptance Week, let's make a pledge to build a more accepting and understanding world for autistic individuals. Together, we can build a future where neurodiversity is valued and everyone has an equal chance at a full life.
We at B. P. Poddar Hospital & Medical Research Limited pride ourselves in creating awareness of diseases that are not typically accorded the importance they deserve. Alport Syndrome—a genetic disease of the kidneys, ears, and eyes—is a disease like that. With Alport Syndrome Awareness Month being observed, we want to inform and empower our people to observe the symptoms in time and seek proper medical assistance.
What is Alport Syndrome?
Alport Syndrome is an inherited disorder resulting from mutations in the genes that code for the proteins of collagen production. Collagen is an important protein of the kidney basement membrane, inner ear, and eye. As a result of the defective collagen, Alport Syndrome patients suffer from chronic kidney disease, deafness, and ocular abnormalities.
Symptoms and Early Warning Signs
Identifying the symptoms early on can contribute a lot towards controlling the condition. Some of the most prevalent signs of Alport Syndrome are:
- Blood in Urine (Hematuria): One of the very first and longest-standing of all the symptoms, usually appearing during childhood.
- Protein in the Urine (Proteinuria): A sign of kidney damage, leading to swelling of legs, feet, and eyelids.
- Hearing Loss: Typically develops in late childhood or adolescence, bilateral.
- Abnormalities of the eyes: Lenticonus (conical lens) and fleck retinopathy are frequent but not necessarily threatening to vision.
- Progressive Kidney Failure: Kidney function will become worse if left untreated and lead to CKD and eventual kidney transplant or dialysis.
Why Alport Syndrome Awareness Matters
Since Alport Syndrome is a rare disease, it is most commonly mistaken for other kidney diseases. Awareness makes it possible for patients with a family history of kidney disease to be provided with genetic tests and early screening. Early detection postpones the disease's progress through modification of lifestyle, medication, and medical tests.
Treatment and Management
Alport Syndrome has no cure at the moment, but thanks to advancements in medicine, it has been possible to treat the disease successfully:
- ACE Inhibitors & ARBs: They block the kidneys from losing function and delay the development of kidney failure.
- Routine Hearing and Eye Tests: Early detection of hearing and vision loss enables treatment.
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: A low-sodium diet, proper fluid intake, and avoidance of nephrotoxic medications can help protect kidney function.
- Kidney Transplant: In those progressing to end-stage kidney disease, the ideal choice is a kidney transplant. The Role of B. P. Poddar Hospital in Alport Syndrome Treatment
Our goal at B. P. Poddar Hospital & Medical Research Limited is to provide cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment facilities for genetic kidney diseases. Our nephrologists are trained to provide special care, genetic counseling, and customized treatment programs for patients with Alport Syndrome.
Join the Awareness Campaign
This Alport Syndrome Awareness Month, we encourage everyone to act positively:
- Promote awareness of the condition.
- Get family members with kidney disease to have genetic screening.
- Facilitate research work for improved treatments.
If you or a relative is experiencing any of the symptoms of Alport Syndrome, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Early treatment can make life easier. To learn more or make an appointment with our experts, visit doctor booking or call us at +91 62922 35652. Join hands to promote healthy kidneys and spread awareness!