ArdorComm Media Group

Contact Us
Friday, June 20, 2025 9:51 PM
logo
Menu
logo

Health & Wellness Community

Indian Researchers Pioneer Breakthrough Nano-Cup Technology for Heat-Based Cancer Treatment

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community

In a major leap for non-invasive cancer therapies, Indian scientists have unveiled a revolutionary method to create nano-sized cup-shaped particles that can eliminate tumors using heat. This innovation could significantly boost the accessibility and effectiveness of Photothermal Therapy (PTT)—a technique that destroys cancer cells by heating them with laser light. The research team, comprising experts from the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, the Advanced Centre for Treatment Research & Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, and IIT-Bombay, has developed PEGylated semi-shells (SS)—nano-cup structures partially coated with polyethylene glycol (PEG). This coating enhances the particles’ compatibility with the human body, improving their stability and circulation when injected into the bloodstream. Unlike traditional methods that relied on multiple steps and hazardous chemicals like hydrofluoric acid, the new approach is both simpler and safer. Published in Communications Chemistry, a journal by the Nature group, the study outlines a single-step synthesis using biocompatible substances under mild conditions. The researchers used ZIF-8, a metal-organic framework, as a dissolvable template. As ZIF-8 breaks down, gold nanoparticles form around it, resulting in the distinctive nano-cup shape. The process, remarkably, is carried out at room temperature using ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) as a gentle reducing agent. What makes these nano-cups particularly powerful is their ability to absorb and scatter light in the near-infrared (NIR) spectrum, making them highly suitable for PTT. Laboratory experiments showed that the PEGylated semi-shells had high photothermal conversion efficiency, remained stable in water, and were non-toxic. In preclinical trials, the team successfully applied this technology to treat metastatic breast tumors in mice, achieving significant tumor reduction, improved survival rates, and a lower risk of recurrence. Beyond cancer treatment, scientists believe the unique optical features of these nano-cups could pave the way for advanced biosensing applications such as Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS). Future studies aim to explore combining this technique with traditional chemotherapy to further enhance cancer treatment outcomes. This homegrown innovation marks a promising step forward in India’s contribution to global cancer therapy, blending cutting-edge nanotechnology with safe, sustainable scientific practices. Source: Economic Times  

Indian Researchers Pioneer Breakthrough Nano-Cup Technology for Heat-Based Cancer Treatment Read More »

Cholera Detected in Odisha’s Jajpur as Diarrhoea Toll Rises to Five; Centre Sends Expert Teams

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community

Odisha’s Jajpur district is grappling with a major health concern as five deaths have been reported due to a diarrhoea outbreak, with over 1,500 people affected since early May. Adding to the concern, health authorities confirmed on Saturday that multiple cases of cholera have now also been detected in the district, prompting the Central government to dispatch expert teams to assess the situation on the ground. Officials reported that out of 200 collected samples, 11 tested positive for Vibrio cholerae, the bacterium responsible for cholera. However, the infections appear to be sporadic and not concentrated in any particular locality. Responding to the health crisis, the Jajpur district administration has taken strict measures, including cancelling all Raja festival holidays for government employees from June 14 to 16. Community feasts, a common festive practice, have also been banned to curb the spread. “All district offices will remain functional, and staff may be called upon as needed,” stated the district collector’s directive. Although the number of hospital admissions has declined since Friday, the state remains on high alert. “A total of 1,516 diarrhoea cases have been admitted since May 9. Out of these, 1,306 have recovered and 210 are under treatment,” said Dr. Nilakantha Mishra, Director of Public Health. Three central teams—comprising 14 experts—have been dispatched to Jajpur. These include a seven-member medical team from the Directorate General of Health Services, a three-member food safety inspection group, and a four-member special team from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Their mandate includes assessing health risks, identifying causes, and advising both state and central authorities on effective containment and prevention strategies. Local health officials suspect that the outbreak originated from the consumption of contaminated water at community gatherings. “We’re disinfecting water sources, collecting samples from street food vendors, and even testing water from tube wells,” said Jajpur’s CDMO Dr. Bijay Mishra. Senior health officials, including NRHM Director Dr. Brunda D and Special Secretary Bijay Mohapatra, visited affected areas for an on-the-ground review. Additional CDMO Dr. Prakash Chandra Bal confirmed that one more person had died due to diarrhoea on Friday, raising the total fatalities to five. In a broader preventive push, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja has directed neighbouring districts to remain vigilant. He ordered intensified sanitation drives to be completed within 10 days and emphasized robust action against a wider set of seasonal threats like jaundice, malaria, and dengue, in addition to diarrhoea and cholera. Ahuja further instructed health officials to increase the capacity of government hospitals, ensure medicine availability, conduct household surveys, and deploy mobile health units for community awareness. The aim, he stressed, is a proactive and targeted approach to controlling the outbreak and preventing further escalation. Source: PTI  

Cholera Detected in Odisha’s Jajpur as Diarrhoea Toll Rises to Five; Centre Sends Expert Teams Read More »

Ayushman Bharat Transforms Rural Healthcare in Bihar, Saves Over ₹1,000 Crore in Just One Year

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community
Ardorcomm news

Bihar is undergoing a healthcare transformation, with the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) playing a central role in improving the well-being of millions, especially in rural communities. In a landmark achievement, the state has enabled its citizens to save over ₹1,000 crore in out-of-pocket medical expenses within a year—highlighting the scheme’s profound impact. Access to affordable, quality healthcare is rapidly becoming a reality for Bihar’s rural population. Through the dedicated efforts of the State Health Agency (SHA), the state has achieved universal coverage for all eligible families under the AB PM-JAY umbrella. This milestone ensures that no entitled household is left without the financial protection and healthcare support promised under India’s flagship public health insurance programme. Enhancing the reach of healthcare services further, the state government has integrated the Mukhyamantri Jan Arogya Yojana—a complementary state-level initiative. This integration not only broadens the scope of beneficiaries but also reinforces the healthcare infrastructure to provide better, free-of-cost medical services. Today, Bihar boasts a network of over 1,100 empanelled hospitals under the scheme, with private institutions making up half of this total. This public-private synergy has dramatically improved access, reduced patient wait times, and brought quality medical treatment within reach of even the most remote populations. To ensure smooth and transparent implementation, the SHA has rolled out several strategic measures—ranging from real-time digital monitoring and regular audits to grassroots awareness campaigns and grievance redressal systems. These initiatives aim to eliminate corruption and ensure the benefits reach those who need them the most. Officials assert that the scheme is not only improving health outcomes but also mitigating rural hardship, reducing debt from medical expenses, and empowering families with economic and social stability. As Bihar emerges as a model for effective public healthcare delivery, the Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY stands as a testament to what focused governance and inclusive policies can achieve—redefining rural healthcare in India. Source: ANI  

Ayushman Bharat Transforms Rural Healthcare in Bihar, Saves Over ₹1,000 Crore in Just One Year Read More »

India Sees Uptick in COVID-19 Cases: Active Infections Near 4,000, Deaths Reported Across Key States

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community
Ardorcomm news

India is witnessing a steady rise in COVID-19 infections, with active cases reaching 3,961 as of Monday, June 2—a jump of 566 cases from the previous day, according to data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). The recent surge is driven primarily by states like Kerala, Maharashtra, and Delhi, which are reporting the highest case numbers. Since the start of the year, the country has registered 32 COVID-related deaths, including four in the last 24 hours. One fatality each was reported from Delhi, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu. The deceased include a 22-year-old woman from Delhi with a history of post-tuberculosis complications and a 44-year-old man from Maharashtra suffering from acute respiratory distress and aortic valve problems. While Kerala confirmed another death, specific details are awaited. Delhi Records Steepest Daily Spike; Tamil Nadu, Karnataka Also Report Fatalities Delhi saw the most significant daily rise in active infections among major states, adding 47 new cases and logging one death. Tamil Nadu, with 189 active cases, reported the passing of a 25-year-old man with underlying bronchial asthma and acute kidney complications. Karnataka, currently reporting 253 active cases, recorded a fresh fatality, while Uttar Pradesh reported two deaths and has 157 active cases. In total, 16 states and Union Territories have recorded COVID-related deaths in 2025. However, the majority of cases remain mild, with limited hospital admissions. Kerala Leads in Caseload; Maharashtra, West Bengal Also on High Alert Kerala continues to report the highest number of active COVID-19 cases at 1,435, rising from 1,336 the previous day. Maharashtra follows with 506 active cases, and Delhi with 483. West Bengal has also seen a surge, reporting 331 active infections. Other notable figures include: Gujarat: 338 Karnataka: 253 Tamil Nadu: 189 Uttar Pradesh: 157 Rajasthan: 69 States like Madhya Pradesh (23), Haryana (28), and Odisha (12) have recorded smaller increases. In the last 24 hours, 203 patients have recovered, pushing the total number of recoveries and migrations this year to 2,188. Authorities Urge Caution, Not Panic Health experts and officials maintain that the situation is under control, emphasizing that most new cases are mild and manageable at home. Dr. Rajiv Behl, Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), reassured the public that while increased vigilance is necessary, there’s no immediate cause for alarm. The rise in cases coincides with the detection of new Omicron sub-variants—LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and NB.1.8.1—identified in genome sequencing studies from western and southern India. These have been classified by the World Health Organization as “Variants Under Monitoring,” indicating they don’t currently pose a significant global threat. Preparedness Measures in Place as Precaution In response, state health departments—particularly in Delhi, Maharashtra, and Kerala—are ramping up hospital readiness and reviewing medical supply logistics. Citizens, especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health issues, are being encouraged to wear masks in crowded or poorly ventilated settings. Experts stress that while the virus is spreading faster due to more contagious but less severe sub-variants, preventive strategies such as timely testing, vaccination, and community awareness remain key to containing its impact. Though the overall caseload is still far lower than during peak waves, the recent tenfold increase over two weeks underscores the need for continued monitoring, public cooperation, and proactive measures to avoid another significant outbreak. Source: Economic Times Photo Credit: iStock   

India Sees Uptick in COVID-19 Cases: Active Infections Near 4,000, Deaths Reported Across Key States Read More »

New COVID-19 Subvariants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 Detected in India: INSACOG Report

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community

India has recorded the presence of two newly emerging COVID-19 subvariants—NB.1.8.1 and LF.7—according to recent data released by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG). While these variants are currently categorized as Variants Under Monitoring by the World Health Organization (WHO), they have been linked to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases across China and parts of Asia. As per the INSACOG data, a single case of NB.1.8.1 was identified in Tamil Nadu in April, while four cases of LF.7 were reported from Gujarat in May 2025. Despite these new detections, the dominant strain circulating in India remains JN.1, accounting for approximately 53% of the tested samples. It is followed by BA.2 (26%) and other Omicron-related variants (20%). Preliminary assessments by WHO suggest that NB.1.8.1 poses a low global public health risk, but the subvariant carries spike protein mutations—A435S, V445H, and T478I—that may enhance both transmissibility and the ability to evade immune responses. As of May 19, India reported 257 active COVID-19 cases. A high-level review meeting was recently convened, chaired by the Director General of Health Services, with participation from the ICMR, National Centre for Disease Control, and other leading health agencies to monitor the evolving situation. Meanwhile, certain states have shown localized spikes. Delhi reported 23 new cases, Andhra Pradesh had four, Telangana confirmed one, and Bengaluru recorded a positive case in a nine-month-old infant, reflecting a steady rise over the last 20 days. Kerala, in particular, reported 273 cases in May alone. Source: PTI

New COVID-19 Subvariants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 Detected in India: INSACOG Report Read More »

India Joins Global Pandemic Treaty; PM Emphasizes Role of Global South in World Health

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community

In a landmark step towards bolstering global health security and future pandemic preparedness, India has officially joined other WHO member nations in endorsing the Pandemic Treaty during the 78th World Health Assembly held in Geneva. Addressing the assembly, the Prime Minister highlighted the critical need for inclusive global healthcare, stating, “The future of a healthy world depends on inclusion, and the health of the world depends on how well we care for the most vulnerable, especially in the Global South who are particularly impacted by health challenges.” He also drew attention to India’s domestic strides in public health, mentioning that government health spending has surged while citizens’ out-of-pocket medical costs have declined significantly. He credited this progress to flagship initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat, which extends free healthcare coverage to over 580 million people, and to the proliferation of affordable public pharmacies. “India has established a vast network of Health and Wellness Centres (HWC) that offer screening for major conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and hypertension. India’s digital platform to track vaccination of pregnant women and children is helping to integrate benefits, insurance, records, and information,” the Prime Minister said. The assembly’s primary goal this year was the finalization of the Global Pandemic Treaty, and the Prime Minister commended the efforts of the WHO and all negotiating nations. “India’s initiatives have brought down out-of-pocket expenditure as a percentage of total health expenditure significantly, while government health expenditure has increased considerably,” he added. A WHO statement confirmed the treaty’s adoption during a plenary session of the assembly, which serves as the organization’s highest decision-making body. The treaty was approved by vote in committee, with 124 nations in favor and 11 abstaining. No country formally opposed the agreement. The Pandemic Agreement outlines key principles and strategies to enhance international collaboration in areas like vaccine access, diagnostics, and treatment distribution, all aimed at reinforcing global preparedness and response to health emergencies. However, the agreement was adopted without participation from the United States, a major WHO donor, which had previously halted its funding commitments to the organization earlier this year. Source: Economic Times  

India Joins Global Pandemic Treaty; PM Emphasizes Role of Global South in World Health Read More »

WHO Prepares for Life After U.S. Exit Amid Deep Budget Cuts and Donor Shift

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community

As the World Health Organization (WHO) prepares for its annual assembly in Geneva starting May 19, a significant shift looms over the global health body: how to navigate a future without its top financial backer, the United States. The week-long gathering, typically a forum for setting health priorities and policy, approving vaccines, and coordinating international disease responses, is this year overshadowed by the U.S. decision to leave the organization. In January, President Donald Trump issued an executive order initiating the year-long withdrawal process on his first day back in office. With the U.S. accounting for roughly 18% of the WHO’s funding, officials are now grappling with how to stretch limited resources. “Our goal is to focus on the high-value stuff,” said Daniel Thornton, WHO’s director of coordinated resource mobilisation. While specifics remain under discussion, internal planning documents seen by Reuters suggest the agency will prioritize its emergency response and medicine approval efforts, while scaling back on training programs and potentially closing offices in high-income countries. Key health guidance on vaccines and diseases such as HIV and obesity is expected to continue. A Western diplomat, speaking anonymously, acknowledged the challenge ahead: “We’ve got to make do with what we have.” WHO staff have already begun budget and personnel cuts in anticipation of the funding shortfall. Though the U.S. remains a member until January 21, 2026, under the legally mandated transition period, signs of a policy reversal are slim. President Trump initially left the door open to rejoining if the organization “clean it up,” but health envoys say no concrete steps have followed. In the meantime, WHO faces an immediate budget gap of $600 million this year, with deeper cuts—up to 21%—expected over the next two years. As the U.S. steps back, China is poised to become the largest contributor of assessed contributions—one of WHO’s key funding streams. China’s share will rise from over 15% to 20% following a 2022 funding restructure. “We have to adapt ourselves to multilateral organisations without the Americans. Life goes on,” said Chen Xu, China’s ambassador to Geneva. The evolving donor landscape has prompted calls for deeper reform. Anil Soni, CEO of the WHO Foundation, questioned whether the organization still needs its vast array of committees or to publish thousands of documents each year. He added that the transition was forcing a reassessment of operations, including whether WHO should handle routine logistics like fuel purchases during crises. Soni emphasized the urgency of sustaining vital programs amid the funding squeeze, noting that the agency is increasingly turning to philanthropies and the private sector for targeted support. The ELMA Foundation, for instance, recently contributed $2 million to support the Global Measles and Rubella Laboratory Network, which includes over 700 labs monitoring infectious disease threats. Alongside pandemic preparedness agreements and an investment round to court new donors, funding will remain the central concern at the Geneva meeting. A WHO manager’s recent request for staff to volunteer as ushers—without extra pay—reflects the broader austerity mindset taking hold. Source: Reuters Photo Credit: Reuters

WHO Prepares for Life After U.S. Exit Amid Deep Budget Cuts and Donor Shift Read More »

Genefitletics Enhances Platform to Decode Cellular Health

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community

Indian biotech startup Genefitletics has unveiled a major update to its health platform, enabling it to assess the condition of individual cells by detecting the expression of key biological signals. This advancement allows for early identification of chronic diseases—often in their asymptomatic stages—through a combination of next-generation sequencing and machine learning. According to the company, the upgraded platform now generates a “cellular health score” by analyzing markers linked to inflammation, mitochondrial function, immune activity, cellular stress, and senescence. This empowers users to monitor and improve their internal health at the cellular level. Additional capabilities include evaluations related to triglyceride regulation, risk indicators for irritable bowel disease, and a dynamic feedback system that shows how nutritional and lifestyle interventions influence biological pathways in real time. Sushant Kumar, Founder and CEO of Genefitletics, explained, “Our proprietary platform, PROTEBA, is trained on an extensive dataset—over 12 billion molecular data points, 45 million phenotype records, more than 35,000 peer-reviewed scientific publications, and continuously updated clinical insights. It now enables us to track the activity of biological pathways involved in cellular inflammation, energy inefficiency, aging, and various types of cellular stress—including oxidative, genotoxic, hypoxia-induced, and protein-misfolding stress.” This update marks a significant leap in personalized health monitoring, providing deeper insight into cellular functions and the impact of daily choices on long-term health. Source: ETHealthWorld

Genefitletics Enhances Platform to Decode Cellular Health Read More »

Trump Administration Halts Funding for Infant Heart Device Research, Cancels $6.7 Million Grant

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community

A groundbreaking research initiative aimed at saving the lives of infants with serious heart conditions has come to a standstill following the Trump administration’s decision to revoke federal funding. Dr. James Antaki, a biomedical engineering professor at Cornell University, revealed to NBC News that the U.S. Department of Defense abruptly canceled a $6.7 million grant for his ongoing work on PediaFlow—a miniature heart device designed to enhance blood circulation in newborns with congenital heart defects. The grant, officially awarded on March 30, was expected to support the development, testing, and scaled-up production of the PediaFlow device over a four-year period. However, less than two weeks later, on April 8, Dr. Antaki’s lab received a formal stop-work order from the Department of Defense, effectively halting all associated research activities. The decision, which came without any explanation, places more than 30 years of research and progress in serious jeopardy. PediaFlow, which has been in development since 2003, is roughly the size of an AA battery and was designed to support infants with structural heart defects, such as holes between heart chambers. The device temporarily boosts blood flow, helping babies survive until they are eligible for surgery or a heart transplant. The sudden funding cut not only threatens the continuation of the project but may also lead to downsizing in Antaki’s lab. Graduate students involved in the research may be forced to abandon their work and shift focus. “This project feels like my life’s mission,” Antaki shared. “Every week I question if it’s time to walk away, but I can’t justify giving up—not when this device has the potential to save so many lives.” He added that the grant represents a relatively small investment compared to the larger federal budget, but one that could yield significant benefits. Dr. Evan Zahn, a pediatric cardiologist at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center who is not affiliated with the project, called the funding withdrawal a major setback. “There’s an urgent need for technologies developed specifically for infants. Losing support for a project like this is a real tragedy,” he said. The funding cut aligns with broader cost-cutting initiatives from the Trump administration, which aims to streamline federal operations. This decision, however, appears to conflict with the administration’s stated support for family growth and parental welfare. Ironically, while promoting initiatives like a proposed $5,000 “baby bonus” for new parents and considering awards like the “National Medal of Motherhood” for mothers of large families, the administration has pulled support from life-saving pediatric research. Image source: TOI

Trump Administration Halts Funding for Infant Heart Device Research, Cancels $6.7 Million Grant Read More »

Bhopal Central Jail Inmates Receive Comprehensive Medical Care at Special Health Camp

Leave a Comment / / Health & Wellness Community

In a significant initiative aimed at ensuring healthcare access behind bars, more than 900 inmates and staff at Bhopal Central Jail availed medical services during a day-long health camp organised by the Bhopal district health department in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA). The camp saw a turnout of 922 individuals, including inmates and jail personnel, benefiting from consultations and treatments across multiple specialities. Medical experts provided 196 consultations in general medicine, 86 in dermatology, 44 in dentistry, 165 in ophthalmology, 69 in ENT, 128 in orthopaedics, 15 in gynaecology, and 42 in mental health services. Specialised consultations were also offered in neurology, oncology, respiratory medicine, gastroenterology, and more. Routine screenings for hypertension and diabetes were conducted to identify lifestyle-related health concerns. The camp also focused on communicable disease management and preventive care education, with medical teams actively informing attendees about government healthcare schemes and services. Dr. Prabhakar Tiwari, Chief Medical and Health Officer of Bhopal, highlighted the joint effort and underlined the need for inclusive healthcare. “The camp was organised for the well-being of inmates and jail staff, ensuring no one is left behind in accessing quality medical attention,” he said. “Health issues identified during the camp, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, are the same as those prevalent in the general population. There was no significant difference in health concerns,” he told TOI. This initiative not only provided essential care but also helped promote health awareness within the prison system, reinforcing the importance of equity in public health services. Authorities affirmed that such camps would continue to be held regularly to maintain the physical and mental well-being of inmates and staff alike. Source: TOI

Bhopal Central Jail Inmates Receive Comprehensive Medical Care at Special Health Camp Read More »