ArdorComm Media Group

Contact Us
Thursday, February 19, 2026 3:26 AM
logo
Menu
logo

Health & Wellness Community

Russia Declares Cancer Vaccine ‘Enteromix’ Ready for Clinical Use; To Be Provided Free for Patients

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community
ardorcomm news

Russia has announced that its personalised cancer vaccine, Enteromix, developed using advanced mRNA technology, is now ready for clinical application following successful early trials. The vaccine, created by the National Medical Research Radiology Centre in collaboration with the Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, was unveiled at the 10th Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok in September 2025, attracting global interest from 8,400 delegates representing 75 countries. Personalised Immunotherapy Unlike chemotherapy and radiation, which damage healthy cells alongside cancerous ones, Enteromix works by training the body’s immune system to recognise and destroy tumors. Each dose is tailored to a patient’s RNA profile, ensuring a highly individualised treatment with fewer side effects. The vaccine uses four harmless viral vectors to trigger immune responses that shrink tumors, slow their spread, and extend life expectancy. Clinical Trial Results In early-stage clinical trials involving 48 patients, Enteromix demonstrated strong results: Tumor sizes reduced by 60–80%. Tumor growth halted and in some cases reversed. Improved overall survival rates. No severe side effects reported. Effectiveness maintained across multiple doses. The initial version of Enteromix targets colorectal cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Further versions for glioblastoma (brain cancer) and melanoma are also under development. Accessibility and Global Impact Russia’s Federal Medical and Biological Agency (FMBA), led by Veronika Skvortsova, confirmed that once regulatory approvals are secured, the vaccine will be distributed free of cost to patients, making advanced cancer therapy more accessible across all social groups. Enteromix is part of a growing global race to develop cancer vaccines using mRNA technology. Companies like BioNTech and Moderna are advancing similar personalised vaccines for pancreatic, lung, and skin cancers, while the UK’s Cancer Vaccine Launch Pad and India’s work on breast, oral, and cervical cancer vaccines show worldwide momentum in this field. Russia, however, is among the first to declare clinical readiness. Next Steps Despite promising results, Enteromix must undergo Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical trials involving larger patient groups to confirm its safety and effectiveness before widespread use. Approval from Russia’s Ministry of Health and international health agencies will be critical for its rollout. If successful, Enteromix could become one of the first personalised mRNA cancer vaccines available to the public, offering a major breakthrough in global oncology treatment. Source: TOI Photo Credit: @SputnikInt/X   

Russia Declares Cancer Vaccine ‘Enteromix’ Ready for Clinical Use; To Be Provided Free for Patients Read More »

Cycling Could Help Slow Parkinson’s Progression, Says Neurologist from CMC Vellore

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community

Cycling may do much more than strengthen the body—it could also help protect the brain in people living with Parkinson’s disease. Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a Hyderabad-based neurologist trained at CMC Vellore, highlighted new research published in Clinical Neurophysiology (2025), which shows that regular cycling can significantly benefit patients with Parkinson’s. “Cycling is not only fun and effective but also a powerful way to support movement, mood, and overall quality of life,” he said. The study observed patients with Parkinson’s who used deep-brain stimulation devices while training on specialized stationary bikes. These bikes either assisted or resisted pedaling, maintaining a steady pace of around 80 revolutions per minute for half an hour, several times weekly. Within weeks, participants showed improved brain activity related to motor control—evidence of enhanced neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new connections. According to Dr. Kumar, cycling helps beyond building muscle strength. Regular aerobic exercise can ease hallmark symptoms of Parkinson’s—such as tremors, stiffness, and slow movement—while also improving balance, posture, and reducing risks of freezing of gait. Additionally, it may slow disease progression by boosting protective brain chemicals like BDNF, which support neuron survival and repair. Practical advice for patients: Stationary or motor-assisted bikes are the safest options; outdoor cycling may be considered if balance is stable, with proper precautions. Target 30 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous cycling at least three times a week. Complement cycling with strength training, yoga or tai chi for balance, and stretching for flexibility. “Movement truly is medicine,” Dr. Kumar said, underscoring that each pedal stroke is more than exercise—it’s a step toward rewiring the brain for improved control, strength, and independence. What is Parkinson’s Disease? Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder caused by the loss of dopamine-producing nerve cells in the substantia nigra region of the brain. Dopamine is critical for smooth, coordinated movement. By the time symptoms appear, 60–80% of these neurons are typically damaged or lost. In addition to dopamine loss, Parkinson’s also affects norepinephrine-producing cells, which regulate automatic body functions, explaining fatigue, blood pressure fluctuations, and other non-motor issues. Clumps of a protein called alpha-synuclein (Lewy bodies) are commonly found in affected brain cells, though their exact role in cell death remains under study. Symptoms of Parkinson’s: Motor symptoms: hand tremors, muscle rigidity, slowness of movement (bradykinesia), postural imbalance, and the classic shuffling gait. Non-motor symptoms: depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, memory decline, urinary problems, speech/swallowing difficulties, muscle pain, fatigue, and sexual dysfunction. Since the condition progresses differently in each patient, early diagnosis and holistic care—including medication, physiotherapy, and lifestyle strategies—play a vital role in maintaining quality of life. Source: Economic Times

Cycling Could Help Slow Parkinson’s Progression, Says Neurologist from CMC Vellore Read More »

AIIMS Gorakhpur to Launch New Academic Courses

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community

AIIMS Gorakhpur has announced the introduction of several new academic programmes, marking a major step towards academic expansion, advanced medical training, and strengthening research at the institute. The approvals were finalized during the 8th meeting of the Standing Academic Committee. The newly sanctioned courses include DM programmes in neurology, pain medicine, clinical pharmacology, and critical care medicine (under the Department of Anaesthesia, Pain Medicine & Critical Care). Additionally, Post-Doctoral Certificate Courses (PDCC) have been approved in trauma anaesthesia, spine trauma, pelvic-acetabular surgery, and adolescent gynaecology. Significantly, some of these, such as the PDCC in adolescent gynaecology, are the first of their kind in India. A Post-Doctoral Fellowship in maternal-foetal medicine (under the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology) has also been introduced. Further, new courses like MS in Trauma Surgery, PhD in Nursing, MSc in Nursing Psychology, and BSc in Operation Theatre Technology have been sanctioned. During the meeting, the institute’s Executive Director, Dr. Ashoka Jahnavi Prasad, highlighted the growing concern of student suicides across institutions. He stressed the urgent need for psychological support and preventive interventions. He further noted that launching specialised courses like MSc in Nursing Psychology will help build a stronger mental health workforce and make psychological care more accessible for students and the wider community. Source: TNN

AIIMS Gorakhpur to Launch New Academic Courses Read More »

AIIMS study reveals high prevalence of catheter-related infections in Indian hospitals

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community

A nationwide study led by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, has revealed that bloodstream infections linked to catheter use are widespread in intensive care units (ICUs) across India, with many cases caused by highly drug-resistant microbes. These hospital-acquired infections, known as Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSI), occur when a catheter inserted into a large vein becomes contaminated. According to estimates published in The Lancet Global Health, Indian ICUs report nearly nine infection events for every 1,000 days a central line remains in use. The AIIMS-led team analysed seven years of data collected by the Indian Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI) surveillance network, spanning 200 ICUs across 54 hospitals. Between May 2017 and April 2024, the network recorded 8,629 confirmed CLABSI cases, covering more than 3 million patient-days and nearly 1 million central line-days. The pooled CLABSI rate was found to be 8.83 per 1,000 central line-days. The study also observed a spike in infection rates during 2020–21, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers attributed this surge to overburdened ICUs, staff shortages, and lapses in infection prevention practices. Experts stressed that while CLABSI is preventable, establishing systematic infection surveillance and prevention programs requires significant resources—a major challenge for low- and middle-income countries like India. Nevertheless, the findings mark the first large-scale, standardised surveillance report on CLABSI in India, offering a foundation for healthcare systems to adopt quality improvement measures. Source: PTI Photo Credit: AFP  

AIIMS study reveals high prevalence of catheter-related infections in Indian hospitals Read More »

Daily Almond Intake of 60 Grams Found to Shield DNA and Combat Oxidative Stress

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community

Almonds may be more than just a crunchy snack — they could be a powerful ally in protecting your health at the cellular level. New research suggests that consuming at least 60 grams of almonds a day can significantly reduce oxidative stress and safeguard DNA from damage. Oxidative stress, caused by an overload of harmful free radicals, accelerates aging, inflammation, and chronic disease risk. Almonds, rich in vitamin E, antioxidants, flavonoids, and healthy fats, act as natural defenders, helping neutralize these free radicals and strengthening the body’s resilience. According to the study, individuals who included over 60 grams of almonds in their daily diet showed notable improvements in antioxidant activity and reduced markers of oxidative stress. This directly translates into better DNA protection, healthier cells, and potentially slower signs of aging. Earlier clinical evidence also supports this. A landmark randomized trial with young male smokers who consumed 84 g of almonds daily recorded a 28% drop in oxidative DNA damage, a 34% reduction in lipid peroxidation, and a 23% decline in DNA strand breaks, proving almonds’ protective benefits even under high-stress conditions. The “60 g threshold” is now being recognized as a key benchmark. That’s about 40–45 almonds per day, roughly two servings — enough for the bioactive compounds in almonds to activate their strongest protective effects. While smaller amounts still offer health benefits, crossing this intake level seems to unlock greater antioxidant potential. Beyond heart and brain health, almonds are emerging as a natural superfood for DNA protection. Their vitamin E helps shield cell membranes, while polyphenols and flavonoids reduce inflammation and support vascular health. Together, they slow down cellular wear and tear linked to aging, cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Experts emphasize that consistency is crucial. Incorporating almonds daily — whether eaten raw, roasted, blended into smoothies, or sprinkled over meals — makes it easy to hit the 60 g mark. This growing body of evidence reinforces almonds as more than a nutritious snack: they are a long-term investment in wellness, helping preserve genetic material, reduce disease risks, and support healthier aging. Source: TOI

Daily Almond Intake of 60 Grams Found to Shield DNA and Combat Oxidative Stress Read More »

IISc Study Warns of Bird Flu Strain’s Rising Threat to Humans

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have raised concerns that the currently circulating H5N1 bird flu strain could be evolving to pose a greater risk to humans. The team, led by Kesavardhana Sannula from the Department of Biochemistry, found that the 2.3.4.4b clade of H5N1 carries genetic mutations similar to those seen in past pandemic influenza strains, enhancing its ability to adapt to human hosts. The study revealed that viruses capable of infecting foxes may have a higher human adaptation potential than those infecting cattle — a surprising finding. H5N1, first detected in birds about 30 years ago, has since caused sporadic human infections and widespread fatalities in birds and mammals, making it a panzootic concern. Using computational analysis of thousands of protein sequences from birds, mammals, and human influenza viruses, the researchers identified mutations concentrated in the viral polymerase complex (PA, PB2), nucleoproteins, and haemagglutinin (HA) proteins — key elements that could aid the virus in crossing the species barrier. The findings underscore the need for heightened surveillance and preparedness to mitigate potential outbreaks. Source: Indian Express

IISc Study Warns of Bird Flu Strain’s Rising Threat to Humans Read More »

Breakthrough in Understanding Childhood Immunity to Strep A Could Accelerate Vaccine Development

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community

A team of scientists has uncovered how young children naturally build immunity against Group A Streptococcus (Strep A), a bacterial infection responsible for up to half a million deaths worldwide each year. The finding could significantly speed up the creation of a life-saving vaccine. Strep A is a common bacterium that can cause mild illnesses like sore throat and skin infections, but in severe cases, it can trigger life-threatening diseases. While deaths from Strep A are rare in wealthier nations, outbreaks can be devastating. In late 2022, a surge in cases across the UK and Europe claimed hundreds of lives, including those of many children. The burden is far greater in low- and middle-income countries, where thousands die annually from the infection. Researchers from the University of Sheffield, working with the Medical Research Council (MRC) Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, tracked how Gambian children acquire natural immunity. Published in Nature Medicine, the study identified specific antibodies linked to protection from Strep A, marking a crucial step toward vaccine design. The team observed that babies are born with some immunity passed down from their mothers, but this protection fades quickly. Young children, however, develop robust antibody responses to different components of the bacteria after repeated exposure. This discovery pinpoints a key window for immune development, which could guide more effective vaccination strategies. Lead researcher Dr. Alex Keeley said this is the first time scientists have seen in humans how antibodies generated through vaccination might prevent Strep A infections. Gambian scientist Fatouamta Camara described the infection’s “devastating burden” on communities and expressed hope that a vaccine could break the cycle of illness and socio-economic hardship. The research was a collaboration between Sheffield’s Florey Institute of Infection and the GSK Vaccine Institute for Global Health. Professor Thushan de Silva, who co-directed the study, emphasised the importance of cross-institutional efforts in delivering impactful global health research. Source: PTI

Breakthrough in Understanding Childhood Immunity to Strep A Could Accelerate Vaccine Development Read More »

WHO Urges Boost in TB Research and Innovation to Tackle High Burden in South-East Asia

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an urgent call to enhance research, innovation, and regional cooperation to eliminate tuberculosis (TB) in the South-East Asia region — a region that continues to carry nearly half of the global TB burden. Speaking at the launch of a three-day virtual workshop focused on advancing TB research and innovation, Dr. Catharina Boehme, Officer-in-Charge for WHO South-East Asia, emphasized that in 2023 alone, the region saw nearly 5 million new TB cases and around 600,000 related deaths. The workshop brings together national TB programme leaders, scientists, civil society members, and global partners to push forward efforts aligned with the WHO’s End TB Strategy. The Need for Urgency and Collaboration Dr. Boehme highlighted that ending TB demands the rapid adoption of new tools, diagnostics, and treatments — and, more importantly, equitable and timely access to these innovations. “Collaboration is key to scaling up impact and ensuring that no one is left behind,” she stated. Despite a post-COVID-19 rebound in TB case detection in 2023, current progress is falling short of the End TB Strategy’s 2030 goals: a 90% drop in TB-related deaths and an 80% decline in incidence compared to 2015. Alarmingly, TB has returned as the world’s leading cause of death from a single infectious disease, with its effects disproportionately hitting the poorest and most vulnerable communities. In South-East Asia, between 30% and 80% of TB-affected households experience catastrophic healthcare expenses, pointing to the urgent need for inclusive, people-first approaches and stronger social protection systems. Signs of Progress Amidst Challenges Still, there are signs of advancement. In 2023, the region recorded 3.8 million new or relapsed TB cases, with an 89% treatment success rate among those who began treatment in 2022. The number of undiagnosed cases was significantly reduced — down to 22% from 44% in 2020. Countries are increasingly adopting technology-driven solutions such as artificial intelligence for detecting TB, digital adherence tools to monitor treatment, and direct benefit transfers to ease patients’ financial burdens. These innovations are being powered by strong political will and national commitment. Several countries have also expanded research efforts. Bangladesh has concluded a national patient cost survey, while India’s RATIONS study provided valuable insights on the role of nutrition in TB prevention and recovery. Nepal’s “TB-Free Pallika” initiative and Myanmar’s multisectoral coordination model are examples of community-led innovations that prioritize vulnerable populations. According to WHO, over 3,000 TB-related research papers were published by South-East Asian countries in the past six years, with 60% being original research. However, the challenge lies in transforming these findings into action, as knowledge gaps and lack of collaborative platforms hinder broader impact. Strengthening Regional and Global Coordination The workshop will also focus on building stronger South-South collaboration, vaccine readiness, use of digital tools for patient care, and tackling vaccine hesitancy. Discussions will revolve around aligning regulatory frameworks, improving knowledge-sharing platforms, and setting research priorities that address underlying drivers of TB — such as malnutrition and climate-related risks. Dr. Boehme noted the growing threat posed by drug-resistant TB and emphasized the importance of ensuring that scientific progress benefits everyone equally. “Access to new vaccines, medicines, and diagnostics must be equitable. Reaching underserved communities through proactive case-finding and offering socio-economic support is essential in mitigating the financial toll of TB,” she concluded. Source: PTI Photo Credit: Getty Images

WHO Urges Boost in TB Research and Innovation to Tackle High Burden in South-East Asia Read More »

Manipal Hospitals Seeks CCI Approval to Acquire Sahyadri Hospitals in Rs 6,400 Crore Deal

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community

Manipal Hospitals has approached the Competition Commission of India (CCI) seeking approval to acquire Pune-headquartered Sahyadri Hospitals in a deal estimated to be worth between ₹6,200 crore and ₹6,400 crore. The transaction involves purchasing up to 100% equity in Sahyadri Hospitals Pvt Ltd through multiple tranches, according to the regulatory filing. Though the official deal value has not been disclosed, industry insiders peg the acquisition around ₹6,400 crore. The seller, Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board, a Canada-based global investor, had acquired a majority stake in Sahyadri Hospitals in 2022. In a joint statement, both healthcare entities noted that the transaction is unlikely to impact competition in any significant way, allowing the CCI flexibility in defining relevant markets. They emphasized that the deal poses no appreciable adverse effect on competition (AAEC) in the Indian healthcare sector. Manipal Hospitals, headquartered in Bengaluru, recently confirmed that it had signed definitive agreements with Ontario Teachers’ for the takeover. The move is a significant step toward expanding Manipal’s reach in western India. With the acquisition of Sahyadri’s 11 hospitals located across Pune, Nashik, Ahilya Nagar, and Karad, Manipal’s total hospital count will rise to 49, with a combined capacity of approximately 12,000 beds — placing it among the largest hospital networks in the country. Commenting on the development, Dilip Jose, MD & CEO of Manipal Health Enterprises, said, “This acquisition aligns with our goal of enhancing access to quality healthcare across India. Supported by our stakeholders, including Temasek, we look forward to serving a broader patient base.” Ranjan Pai, Chairman of Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG), added that the expansion will significantly bolster the group’s presence in Maharashtra and western India. Manipal Hospitals is backed by Singapore-based investment firm Temasek, which manages a portfolio valued at around USD 324 billion as of March 2025. Ontario Teachers’, with assets totaling USD 266.3 billion as of December 2024, exits Sahyadri after helping it become one of Maharashtra’s leading hospital chains with over 1,400 beds. This strategic acquisition marks a major milestone in Manipal’s ongoing mission to build a truly pan-India healthcare network. Source: PTI

Manipal Hospitals Seeks CCI Approval to Acquire Sahyadri Hospitals in Rs 6,400 Crore Deal Read More »

Meenakshi Hospital Uses CRRT to Save Eight Critically Ill Patients in Thanjavur

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community

In a significant medical achievement, Meenakshi Hospital in Thanjavur has successfully saved the lives of eight critically ill patients using Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT), a specialised form of dialysis designed for patients in intensive care. Dr. S. Gowri Shankar, Consultant Nephrologist at the hospital, revealed that the treatment was administered over the past few months to patients suffering from life-threatening kidney failure and other complications. Among the cases, one particularly severe patient—a 40-year-old man with a history of heavy alcohol consumption and smoking—was admitted with dangerously low blood pressure and critically high creatinine levels, indicating severe kidney distress. The patient, who was reliant on two inotropic drugs to sustain heart function and stabilize blood pressure, was immediately started on CRRT. This method of dialysis, unlike conventional hemodialysis, operates continuously over a 24-hour period, gently filtering the blood while preserving cardiovascular stability—crucial for patients with unstable conditions. Remarkably, within 24 hours of initiating CRRT, the patient’s vital signs began to stabilize. By the second day, his urine output—a key indicator of kidney recovery—increased significantly, and his creatinine levels returned to a safer range, indicating a strong turnaround in his condition. CRRT is particularly beneficial for patients experiencing multi-organ dysfunction or conditions such as sepsis, heart failure, severe liver issues, or dysautonomic shock, where the body fails to regulate blood pressure effectively. The therapy provides a controlled and gradual process of fluid and toxin removal, making it a safer alternative for critically ill individuals who cannot tolerate the more aggressive traditional dialysis methods. Dr. Gowri Shankar emphasized that CRRT’s ability to stabilize patients while supporting failing kidneys is proving to be a game-changer in critical care nephrology, especially for high-risk patients in intensive care units. Source: The Hindu  

Meenakshi Hospital Uses CRRT to Save Eight Critically Ill Patients in Thanjavur Read More »