PCOS is the leading cause of infertility in women worldwide, with a prevalence of 6-26% worldwide and 3.7-22.5% in India.

 Why do Indian Women Struggle to Manage Conditions like PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder that affects many women worldwide, including those in India. However, Indian women, in particular, face unique struggles when managing this condition. This document aims to explore the reasons behind the challenges Indian women encounter while managing PCOS and shed light on the factors contributing to this issue.

 

 

Understanding PCOS: A Brief Overview

PCOS can significantly impact a woman's reproductive health, overall well-being, and quality of life. It can cause irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen, and multiple small cysts on the ovaries in women.

The exact cause of PCOS is still not fully understood. Still, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated levels of androgens such as testosterone, play a crucial role in developing and progressing PCOS.

 

Symptoms and Diagnosis of PCOS

The symptoms of PCOS can vary among woman but often include irregular periods, fertility issues, acne, weight gain, and excessive hair growth. These symptoms can significantly impact a woman's physical appearance, emotional well-being, and self-esteem.

Diagnosing PCOS can be challenging as there is no definitive test. The diagnosis usually involves a combination of physical exams, medical history evaluation, blood tests, and ultrasound imaging. These tests help rule out other possible causes of the symptoms and confirm the presence of PCOS.

 

It is important to note that PCOS is a lifelong condition, and early diagnosis and management are crucial in preventing or minimizing potential complications. Women with PCOS often require ongoing medical care and support to manage their symptoms. It reduces the risk of long-term health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and infertility.

In conclusion, understanding PCOS's symptoms, diagnosis, and management is necessary in providing appropriate care and support for women with this condition.

Statistics on PCOS in India

PCOS is a severe medical condition that affects roughly one in every five Indian women. One survey found that nearly 25 per cent of respondents were unaware of PCOS, while 65% did not recognize its symptoms.

 

There are several symptoms that women and girls with PCOS experience, such as weight gain, thinning hair, fatigue, infertility, pelvic pain, acne, headaches, mood changes, sleep problems, and acne. These symptoms typically begin shortly after puberty and develop throughout the teen years and into early adulthood.

  

According to research done by the AIIMS, around 20-25 per cent of Indian women of reproductive age have PCOS. But why is PCOS becoming such a health scare for Indian women? 

Why is PCOS More Common in Indian Women?

There are multiple reasons why Indian women struggle to manage conditions like PCOS. Here are a few major reasons that make it difficult to handle the situation.  

 

Firstly, there is not enough understanding and education concerning the disease. Many women are ignorant of the signs and causes of PCOS, resulting in late diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, the lack of open communication and the inaccessibility of reliable information related to PCOS make PCOS management difficult.

 

Second, in many regions of India, addressing reproductive health concerns is frowned upon. It makes it harder for women to seek medical assistance and support.

 

Additionally, many areas need more affordable and quality healthcare, making it even more challenging for women to seek expert advice. 

 

Finally, the societal expectation that women prioritize family obligations over their health can make controlling disorders like PCOS harder. 

 

The impact of PCOS extends beyond physical health. The hormonal imbalances and the physical manifestations of PCOS can affect a woman's mental well-being.  To deal with the crisis, better understanding, awareness, and access to healthcare services are needed to assist Indian women in properly managing illnesses like PCOS.

It is important to address the prevalence of PCOS in Indian women and raise awareness about the condition. Early diagnosis, lifestyle modifications, and appropriate medical interventions can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for women affected by PCOS.

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Mexico is the world's second most popular destination for health care tourism, with a suspected 1.4 million to 3 million people travelling in 2020 to take benefit of low-cost treatment.

 What Makes Mexico an Emerging Dental Tourism Hub?

Having beautiful, healthy teeth complements your smile and leaves a lasting impression. An aesthetically pleasing smile indicates good oral health, boosts confidence and improves social life. 

 

But what about people with damaged or missing teeth? Such circumstances call for tooth replacement procedures. 

However, the cost of dental implants can be astronomical in several nations. One of the main reasons people fly to Mexico is the low cost of dental implants in Mexico. For instance, compared to the United States, specific dental procedures can be 50 to 70% cheaper in Mexico than at a local clinic.

Reasons to Get Dental Implants in Mexico

Cost is one of many factors that bring patients to Mexico. There are many factors that make Mexico an ideal location for dental tourism.

High-Quality Health Care

The country offers some of the best medical facilities in the world. There is state-of-the-art healthcare infrastructure that complies with global safety and quality standards. In addition, Mexican doctors are well-educated, with many obtaining medical training and education abroad. Therefore, it is a good idea for patients to look for the best implant dentists in Mexico and get the treatment done by qualified professionals.

 

Affordability

According to Forbes Health, single-tooth implants in the US can cost anywhere from $3,100 to $5,800. Similarly, the American Dental Association estimates that full arch dental implants will cost between $20,000 and $45,000. This is highly pricey compared to the US$1,400 for a single tooth implant in Mexico.

Since the cost of dental implants in Mexico is significantly lower, it has become an appealing destination to save money on medical services. Furthermore, patients can check with their insurance providers to see if their plan covers treatment fees in Mexico.

 

Wide Range Of Procedures Available

Another benefit is the easy availability of a dentist and a dental surgeon under one roof. Depending on the requirement, people can obtain single-tooth implants, fixed bridges, or all four dental implants done in Mexico. It saves time and allows patients to have whatever procedure is done comfortably.

Take a Dental Vacation

Medical tourists in Mexico have an unparalleled chance to enjoy their stay while receiving treatment. Patients can travel to places like Los Algodones, Playa del Carmen, and Cancun for safe and effective therapy. They have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the country's rich culture, natural beauty, and history while visiting.

Finally, Mexico is an amazing country that borders the United States. People come to Mexico for the convenience and cost-effectiveness of getting dental treatment, excellent quality care, and the chance to explore a new country. So, what's keeping you from having that dental implant you've been putting off for far too long?

Image Courtesy: Google

 

Protein insufficiency affects about 1 billion individuals globally and is rare in the industrialised world. Insufficient protein consumption leads to a variety of health complications, including muscle loss and an increased risk of bone fracture, among others.

9 Hidden Signs of Protein Deficiency

What are Proteins?

Proteins are the large molecules, building blocks of tissues that are required by our body to perform various functions. Proteins are generally required for : 

Cells require protein to produce enzymes and hormones. 

Protein helps in the healing of body tissues.

It helps in blood clotting.

It makes the immune system strong.

Protein plays a vital role in the absorption of essential nutrients in our body.

It is the foundation of your hair, body muscles, and skin.

It helps in transporting oxygen.

In an emergency (due to low carbohydrate), protein also provides energy to the body. 

How Much Protein is Required? 

The body's protein requirement is based on various factors such as age, gender, and physical activity of an individual. Since protein is required to perform different metabolic functions, the protein requirement varies for every individual. However, according to RDA(Recommended Dietary Allowance), adults need .8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight every day.

Look Out for Nine Hidden Signs of Protein Deficiency

Doctors prescribe a balanced diet with an adequate quantity of protein for healthy living. Protein deficiency has significant health hazards for individuals. The following nine hidden signs of protein deficiency should never be overlooked :

1)  Weak Immune system  

Deficiency of protein results in a weak immune system. As a result of protein deficiency, an individual falls sick very frequently.

2)  Changes in your skin, hair, and nails

Brittle nails, dry skin, hair loss, and dull hair are also signs of protein deficiency.  

3)  Your body healing suffers.  

Proteins help repair and rebuild new cells and tissues in our bodies—the deficiency of protein results in the body's slow healing process.

4)  Bones fracture easily

   Your body needs a sufficient quantity of protein to build muscles and increase bone density. The deficiency of protein results in muscle wasting and increases the threat of bone fracture.

5)  Loss of concentration 

Lack of concentration or difficulty focusing on things and problems in retaining information also indicates protein deficiency. Proteins are required for the proper functioning of neurotransmitters in your brain. The lack of protein thus results in poor concentration.

6)  Difficulty in sleeping 

Protein is required to create neurotransmitters like serotonin that regulates the sleep cycle. The deficiency of protein causes serotonin deficiency leading to insomnia.  

7)  Mood swings and depression 

Mood controlling neurotransmitters such as dopamine are synthesized by protein. These compounds, when available in less quantity due to protein deficiency results in mood swings or depression.

8)  Loss of stamina or fatigue 

Protein intake facilitates the absorption of vital nutrients such as iron in our body. With a low nutrient intake body, stamina suffers adversely. A person feels fatigued quickly, another hidden sign of protein deficiency.

9)  Unexplained hunger 

The protein-rich diet reduces ghrelin levels, a hormone responsible for stimulating hunger. Thus protein deficiency can lead to increased sugar cravings and body weight gain.

What Are The Diseases Caused Due To The Deficiency of Protein?  

Two major diseases caused due to protein deficiency are-

1)  Kwashiorkor - Some common symptoms of kwashiorkor are :

Ø Edema

Ø Failure of growth

Ø Moon face

Ø Skin and hair changes

Ø Irritable behaviour

2)  Marasmus -  Some common symptoms of Marasmus are:

Ø Muscle wasting

Ø Failure to thrive

Ø Growth failure

Ø Different kind of infections

Both the diseases caused due to deficiency of protein intake is frequently detected among poor young children in developing nations.

How big is the problem of protein deficiency in India?

According to the recent studies conducted by IDA (Indian Dietetic Association), the protein consumption among Indians is deficient. Studies further elaborated that nearly 84% population in the country are protein deficient. Moreover, inferior health muscle is prevalent among 71% of Indians. The problem of protein deficiency is found in both urban and rural India.

How is Protein Deficiency Detected?

The deficiency of protein in the body can be easily detected through blood tests. Test to determine the level of protein in the blood is called the total protein test. By identifying the level of two proteins, namely, albumin and globulin in the blood, protein deficiency can be ascertained.

What Are The Causes of Protein Deficiency? 

There are different causes of protein deficiency in the body. Some of these causes are discussed below.

1) The poor dietary choice is one of the prime reasons for protein deficiency. A large section of Indians are vegetarians that augment the problem of protein deficiency.

2) Liver and kidney disorders are also responsible for protein deficiency in the body.

3) Lack of awareness among the general population regarding the requirement of an adequate protein intake quantity is another major factor for protein deficiency.

4) Celiac disease can also lead to protein deficiency.

5) Inflammatory bowel disease is another cause of deficiency of protein in the body.  

Summary 

Protein is an essential nutrient for a healthy human body. The proteins are required to perform various normal body functions; hence protein deficiency may result in health impairment. Therefore, it is advisable to consume sufficient protein quantity in our daily diet to remain healthy.

Autoimmune disorders are conditions in which your immune system mistakenly targets healthy cells in your body.

 

Hello everyone, in this piece I'll discuss something extremely serious about our health. I'm referring to a condition known as auto-immune disease.

What's Autoimmune disease?

Autoimmune disease is one of the most hidden yet difficult to track and adjust conditions. Autoimmune disease is more of a lifestyle-oriented disease. I can tell you something about it as I am facing it for the last twenty years. One of the most significant problems is the silent grip of the disease. You have no clue about it till it is all over you, and the worst part, there isn't much medical science can do for you. Scary? 

Increasing graph of Autoimmune disease

Recent medical reports have indicated the tremendous rising graph of the Autoimmune disease among the masses. It can affect you at any age, and severity depends upon unknown factors. Some of the factors responsible are toxins in our food, pollution, fast food, etc. For a few days, your immune system automatically collapses in this disease, making you vulnerable to infections. I know it sucks!

At this point, when your health needs outside help, you are prone to any disease. You are a kind of a sitting chicken for others to roast. After tackling the illness for years, my hunger to learn about the condition and ways to tide over the crisis period is summarized here. 

Food To Boost Your Immune System

Spice-up your diet

First, we Indians are blessed to have and use some of the potent antibiotics in our kitchen. Yup, you will be surprised by the hidden health benefits of various spices that we use in our daily meals. All you need to do is to take them raw for maximum benefits. 

The three Musketeers 

Here, I am discussing three Autoimmune disease diets that can help you to some extent from auto-immune disease. 

Garlic for autoimmune disease

Yup, garlic, one of the simplest ingredients frequently used in our diet, has incredible medicinal properties. Apart from maintaining your blood pressure and improving cholesterol, it can help you strengthen your immune system. So it makes sense to eat raw garlic in limited quantity every day without a miss.

Onions for autoimmune disease

Onions, a staple food ingredient, is another helpful soldier in your fight against the disease. Onions have sulfur compounds, and eating it raw is exceptionally beneficial for health. Onions possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties also, so do it eat raw every day.

Apples

Yea, we all have heard about eating an apple every day makes you healthy. It is not far from the truth. Apples have antioxidants, iron, fibre, polyphenols, etc. They all help you fight against the auto-immune disease. So include the apples in your diet. 

Final verdict

Every disease is a nightmare for the patients, and Autoimmune disease is no different. But it is prudent to be ahead of the curve and eat things right according to the Autoimmune diet plan. Hopefully, my advice will be beneficial to all of you and help you live a happy and healthy life.

Learn more about the spinal surgery procedure and what to anticipate during your hospital stay.

How to be Prepared for Spine Surgery?

How to Mentally Prepare Yourself for the Upcoming Surgery?

The first question that comes to us when thinking about spine surgery is why and when the patient needs it.

 

It is usually necessary in the following circumstances: 

a) if the patient has persistent lower back discomfort. 

b) If the pain continues after rehabilitative therapies such as physical therapy, massage, and heat therapy, regular pain medication is ineffective.

 

c) Even injections in the back failed to provide relief to the person suffering. 

d) Another issue that the patient may be experiencing is weakness or numbness in his limbs or arms.

Under the above circumstances, when treatment by the local physician has been unsuccessful spine surgery becomes imminent. 

 

Different Types of Spine Surgery

Different types of surgeries are performed to correct Spinal problems. Depending upon the physical, mental state of the person and considering any other health issue like diabetes, blood pressure etc. the orthopedist gives his recommendation for surgery.

Some of the significant types of spine surgeries suggested by orthopedists are :

• Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty
• Spinal laminectomy
• Discectomy
• Foraminotomy
• Nucleoplasty
• Spinal fusion
• Artificial disk replacement

Today the doctors have the option to choose between the traditional /open spine surgery or minimally invasive spine surgery. With the help of modern facilities like 3D scanning, CAT scan etc. minimal invasive surgery that causes less tissue damage, lower infection risk, early hospital discharge and quick patient recovery is preferred.

 

However, not all patients can undergo minimally invasive spine surgery. The orthopedist takes the final decision based on the health condition of the patient.

Things to Consider Before Spine Surgery

It is essential to note that before undergoing surgery, counselling of the patient is necessary. The spine surgery is fraught with risks, but only negligible patients feel pain after recovery or develop any complications.

The time taken to recuperate from spine surgery is around two months, after which a patient can gradually return to his healthy life and walk independently without support.

The success rate of spine surgery is 90% with patients feeling no pain or weakness in their arms or legs.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, physical therapy and rest under the supervision of the doctor helps in fast recovery after spine surgery. 

Image Coutesy: Google Images

While the severity and sorrow of the pandemic cannot be minimized, there are silver linings. It is important to look at the potential positive outcomes that can be achieved from Coronavirus adversity.

COVID-19: Glimmer Of Hope In Dark Times  (Part-2) 

CoronaVirus Positive Images

1) Educational Institutions 

Precautionary measures 

As the government's first precautionary step to managing COVID-19 spread, all schools and colleges were closed down. After that, academic and competitive examinations were also postponed. All the actions academics are taken protected students' health, although at a hefty price of time loss.

 

Education sector overhaul 

However, the measures taken have started discussions within the education sector to encourage schools and universities across the nation to pursue the online delivery of education. 

 

The pandemic may bring a paradigm shift in the education sector, completely transforming the way education is provided.

 

It may help in opening the sector for a significant overhaul, including massive investments.

Digitization Expansion

With public and private investments, the schools or universities may further develop and expand its digital offerings, educating even the remotest parts of the country without hassles.

 

The COVID-19 pandemic may speed up the rate of change necessary in imparting education. It may completely alter the way training is provided today.  

 

They focus more on using technology, particularly regarding the development of online and degree programs, school curriculum, and short courses. Virtual classrooms can provide education not only during times of an emergency but may also offer a more engaging experience for students.

Distance learning 

Technology has emerged as a saviour for many sectors to remain operational during the lockdown, hence the education sector can also benefit immensely by leveraging technology.

 

Distance learning is not a new concept in India, but with COVID-19 fallout, the government may be persuaded to allocate more resources to the education sector. It will require greater digitization of the school curriculum, new online programs, and train the faculty for the challenge. 

 

Coronavirus can be transmitted in various ways among the population, money exchange through circulating currency notes is one of the formidable ways that expose individuals to the virus.

2) Money Transactions

 

On banknotes, the coronavirus can remain active for hours. Since it was one of the most effective ways to transmit the epidemic, the Chinese central bank destroyed all banknotes collected by hospitals, wet markets, and buses to ensure cash transactions. It is estimated that China has injected 600 billion yuan (US$85.6 billion) of new banknotes throughout the country to battle a coronavirus outbreak.

 

Digital Drive in India 

Back home, the demonetization drive undertaken by the government three years back has proved to be a blessing in our fight against COVID-19. One of the most significant benefits of that drive was more people went cashless and embraced digital payment methods, wire transfers, and e-commerce. Post demonetization people reduced dependence on currency transactions, and rapid growth in the usage of debit cards, digital wallets, and cashless transactions even at marketplaces was witnessed.

 

The shift, encouraged by government and Central bank in the electronic transaction, was decisive and helped many startups e-commerce sites like Grofers, Flipkart, etc. to establish their hold among the customers.

Advantages 

Today as the lockdown is underway, these e-commerce sites are operational, providing necessary items at the doorstep. The government has pitched in by allowing them to operate as part of essential services.

 

Another significant advantage is the disbursement of money to the intended beneficiaries digitally across the nation without much hassle. During the lockdown, Aadhaar-linked bank accounts and crores of Jan Dhan accounts came in handy for direct transfer of welfare money to the poor.

 

As the digitization of payments increased exponentially post demonetization, it has come as a saviour without which the struggle against the disease would be lacklustre. It would have exposed millions of Indians to unwanted risk, standing in queues at banks, grocery stores, or in merely providing relief to the poor at a time when social distancing is required.

Future 

Going forward, the digital payment methods will become centralized, with most transactions will be through this method.

 

Due to the government and the private sector's collective efforts, today, India is the second-fastest digitizing economy among the 17 leading economies of the world, and the trend will only increase further once the lockdown is lifted.

 

As the coronavirus transcended national boundaries and became world headache, fingers are now being pointed at WHO, the watchdog to monitor diseases for the world community.

3) World Health Organization (WHO) 

Intriguingly, only after 5700 deaths and over 150,000 infected cases, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus from China that rapidly spread across the world a pandemic. The world paid a heavy price because of the time wasted by the WHO in dealing with the threat.

 

Instead of focusing energy to take countermeasures in controlling COVID -19, WHO wasted precious time in politicizing and downplaying the danger posed by  COVID -19.

 

There are reports that WHO chief Tedros hobnobbed with Chinese authorities in trivializing the Corona pandemic even when there was transmission between people and high fatality rates. The mismanagement of the deadly disease and failure to implement travel bans and restrictions helped spread the virus across the world. Because of the apathy showed by WHO, its leadership failure, the world missed a critical window to halt the pandemic or mitigate its risks.

Future 

There is a probability that drastic reforms would be enacted to make WHO transparent, once the COVID -19 pandemic is tamed. There is a need to maintain transparency in selecting the head of such institutions and accountability in the functioning of the world bodies. 

 

The importance of an international, autonomous organization has never been more recognized in the face of growing infectious diseases such as COVID -19.  Such a body would be proactive rather than reactive in its commitment to addressing present and potential future challenges. 

 

However, in its current form, WHO cannot cope with the problems of the rapidly changing global health scenario and thus needs a complete overhaul.

 

Regardless of all the doom and uncertainty in the economy, certain positive overshoots are noticeable that may alter the way businesses are operated today.