High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1.13 billion people globally suffer from hypertension, and this number is expected to increase to 1.5 billion by 2025. In an effort to mitigate this risk, a doctor from Apollo Hospital has recommended three essential lifestyle changes to protect heart health and naturally lower the risk of high blood pressure.

Firstly, the doctor emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy diet. A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help regulate blood pressure. Specifically, the doctor recommends consuming foods that are high in potassium, such as bananas, leafy greens, and sweet potatoes, as potassium helps to lower blood pressure by balancing out the effects of sodium in the body. Additionally, reducing sodium intake and limiting the consumption of processed and packaged foods is crucial in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

Secondly, regular physical activity is vital for heart health. Engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise, such as running or HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training), per week can significantly lower blood pressure. The doctor also recommends incorporating strength training exercises into one’s routine, as this can help improve overall cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of hypertension.

Lastly, managing stress is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Chronic stress can lead to increased blood pressure, and the doctor recommends practicing stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Getting adequate sleep, ideally 7-8 hours per night, is also crucial in regulating blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health.

In conclusion, making these three lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of high blood pressure and promote overall heart health. By adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing stress, individuals can naturally lower their blood pressure and reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease. The doctor emphasizes that these changes are simple yet effective and can be incorporated into one’s daily routine with minimal effort. By taking control of one’s lifestyle, individuals can take a proactive approach to protecting their heart health and reducing their risk of hypertension.

A team of doctors at Apollo Speciality Hospitals in Tiruchi, India, successfully harvested organs from a 45-year-old brain-dead road accident victim, saving the lives of several patients in need of transplants. The woman, a resident of Kannivadi village in Tiruppur district, was involved in a road accident on January 14 and was initially treated at Apollo Hospitals in Karur before being transferred to the Tiruchi facility. Despite receiving intensive care, she was declared brain dead by the medical team.

The woman’s family made the selfless decision to donate her organs, which were then retrieved through a series of coordinated surgical procedures. The harvested organs included her heart, liver, kidneys, and lungs. The liver and kidneys were transplanted into patients at Apollo Speciality Hospitals in Tiruchi, while the remaining organs were allocated to patients on the waiting list in accordance with the guidelines of the Tamil Nadu Transplant Authority (TRANSTAN).

The organ donation was carried out with the full support of the woman’s family, who were praised for their generosity and selflessness. The hospital officials and local authorities also played a key role in facilitating the donation process. The mortal remains of the organ donor were laid to rest with full honors, with the final rites conducted in the presence of officials from the District Collector of Tiruppur, including the Dharapuram Revenue Divisional Officer and Tahsildar Officer, as well as senior police officials and representatives from Apollo Speciality Hospitals.

This heartwarming story highlights the importance of organ donation and the impact it can have on saving lives. The selfless act of the woman’s family has given a new lease of life to several patients in need of transplants, and serves as an inspiration to others to consider organ donation. The successful transplantation of the organs is a testament to the expertise and dedication of the medical team at Apollo Speciality Hospitals, and the coordination and support of the local authorities and TRANSTAN.

A 14-year-old girl from Nigeria, Grace Natasha Mwanasa, has undergone a successful total hip replacement surgery at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in New Delhi. The surgery, led by renowned orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Yash Gulati, is one of the youngest cases of total hip arthroplasty in a patient with sickle cell disease. Grace was diagnosed with sickle cell disease in early childhood and had experienced recurring sickle cell crises, requiring multiple hospitalizations, ICU care, and blood transfusions.

In December 2025, Grace was admitted to Apollo Hospital with severe left hip pain, inability to walk, limping, and disturbed sleep due to constant pain. Evaluation revealed advanced avascular necrosis and complete destruction of the left femoral head, a known complication of sickle cell disease. Due to her severe pain, complete loss of hip movement, and significant functional disability, the medical team decided to proceed with total hip replacement.

The surgery required extensive preoperative planning, including an exchange blood transfusion to reduce HbS levels, which is a key component of sickle cell disease. The medical team also took precautions during anesthesia and surgery, including hydration, prevention of hypothermia, and meticulous bleeding control. The surgery was a success, and Grace is expected to recover and regain her mobility.

Dr. Gulati and his team’s expertise and careful planning were crucial in the success of the surgery. The case highlights the importance of timely and proper medical intervention in managing sickle cell disease and its complications. The surgery has given Grace a new lease on life, and she is expected to make a full recovery. The case also underscores the capabilities of Indian healthcare, with Indraprastha Apollo Hospital emerging as a hub for complex surgeries and treatments. The successful surgery has brought hope to patients suffering from sickle cell disease and other complex medical conditions, and has demonstrated the potential for effective treatment and management of these conditions with proper medical care.

Apollo Hospitals Enterprise is undergoing a significant restructuring process, spinning off its pharmacy and digital health businesses into a separate entity called Apollo HealthCo. Managing Director Suneeta Reddy has clarified that this decision is driven by a desire to enhance shareholder value and is not related to family differences or changes in promoter dynamics. The restructuring is intended to create focused value for shareholders by allowing each business to operate with tailored strategies and metrics.

The hospital business and pharmacy-digital business have fundamental differences, including their nature, return profile, growth drivers, and workforce. The hospital business is focused on healthcare services, while the pharmacy-digital business is retail-focused. The spin-off will allow each business to operate independently and make decisions that are best for their respective industries.

Apollo HealthCo is projected to achieve 20% growth and is expected to be listed by FY27. The hospitals business is expected to grow at 18% over the next three years. The company is pivoting towards preventive healthcare, driven by the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases in India. Key health challenges, such as genetic predisposition to cardiac problems, rising cancer incidences, and India’s large diabetic population, are driving this strategic shift.

The company has ambitious expansion plans, including continued focus on metro cities, building a significant presence in tier-I cities, and exploring opportunities in tier-II cities. Apollo is also open to asset-light models and acquisitions, recognizing the significant healthcare infrastructure gap in India.

The company is investing in technology, including telemedicine and AI-powered clinical intelligence, to scale high-quality clinical offerings to larger populations. Looking ahead, Apollo is preparing to serve diverse demographic cohorts, from the growing geriatric population to millennials and Gen Z, each requiring tailored healthcare approaches encompassing preventive health, lifestyle interventions, and nutraceuticals. The restructuring and expansion plans are intended to position Apollo for long-term success and growth in the healthcare industry.

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) will oversee and maintain two dialysis centers being constructed by the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) in Kolathur and Kondithope. The centers will provide blood purification services, and the GCC has proposed covering the beneficiaries under the Chief Minister’s Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme (CMCHIS). Until the scheme is formally approved, the GCC will bear the dialysis treatment costs, which will be operated by Apollo Hospitals.

The Kolathur center, located in the Thiru-Vi-Ka Nagar zone, will be a multi-story facility offering integrated services. The center will have an artificial limb center on the first floor, a physical training center on the second floor, a blood purification unit for dialysis procedures on the third floor, and patient amenities on the fourth floor. Similarly, the Kondithope facility, located in the Royapuram zone, will function as a comprehensive rehabilitation center with similar facilities.

The decision to establish these centers was made in a meeting chaired by CMDA Minister PK Sekarbabu in September. The meeting decided that while the CMDA would establish the facilities, the GCC would handle their operation and maintenance. The GCC’s joint commissioner (Health) and the North Chennai regional deputy commissioner were also present at the meeting.

The construction of these dialysis centers aims to provide accessible and affordable healthcare services to the residents of Chennai. The GCC’s decision to bear the treatment costs until the CMCHIS is approved ensures that the beneficiaries can receive the necessary treatment without any delays. The comprehensive rehabilitation centers will also provide a range of services, including artificial limb fitting, physical training, and patient amenities, making them a one-stop destination for patients requiring dialysis and rehabilitation services. Overall, the establishment of these centers is expected to improve the healthcare infrastructure in Chennai and provide better services to the residents.

Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a neurologist from Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad, recently shared his personal experience of completing a half marathon after a 14-hour fasting window. Despite the distance, he maintained a comfortable pace and low heart rate, demonstrating the deep health benefits of endurance running. His run showcased efficient fuel usage, with his body burning fat for energy instead of relying on stored carbohydrates. This level of metabolic adaptability is typically developed through years of regular aerobic conditioning and reflects a resilient metabolism.

The run also highlighted the benefits of a strong and economical heart, with Dr. Kumar’s heart rate remaining low and steady throughout the run. This suggests improved stroke volume, balanced nervous system control, and reduced stress on the heart, all of which are closely linked to slower biological aging and better cardiovascular outcomes. Additionally, exercising in a fasted state within moderate intensity zones helped his muscles absorb glucose more effectively, improving insulin responsiveness and reducing the risk of metabolic disorders.

Dr. Kumar’s approach to running also emphasized the importance of avoiding excessive stress hormone release and oxidative damage. By limiting high-intensity exertion, he supported quicker recovery, lowered chronic inflammation, and contributed to long-term heart and vascular health. The absence of energy crashes, stable pacing, and minimal heart rate drift during his run indicate a form of fitness that can be repeated consistently, building stamina that supports health for decades.

The core takeaway from Dr. Kumar’s experience is that extreme speeds, fancy supplements, or sugary fuels are not necessary to gain meaningful health benefits. Instead, a solid aerobic foundation, regular practice, and patience are far more powerful than shortcuts. By incorporating endurance running into one’s lifestyle, individuals can support long-term wellbeing and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. As a reliable and trusted news source, it is essential to emphasize the importance of sustainable and consistent exercise habits, rather than relying on quick fixes or fad diets. By doing so, individuals can unlock the full potential of endurance running and reap its numerous health benefits.

The quality of cooking oil used in daily meals plays a significant role in maintaining overall health, particularly heart wellness and cholesterol balance. Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a senior doctor at Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, recently shared insights on the benefits of using rice bran oil over sunflower oil in Indian kitchens. According to Dr. Kumar, rice bran oil is a better option for routine Indian cooking due to its well-rounded mix of fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, which support cardiovascular health.

Rice bran oil has several advantages, including its ability to withstand high cooking temperatures without breaking down easily, making it suitable for frying, sautéing, and tadka preparations. It also contains natural compounds that may help reduce LDL or bad cholesterol levels, making it a heart-friendly choice for long-term use. On the other hand, sunflower oil, while popular, has limitations when used regularly. It is rich in omega-6 fatty acids, which can disturb the body’s fat balance and promote inflammation when consumed in excess. Additionally, sunflower oil has lower resistance to heat, which can cause it to degrade faster and reduce its nutritional value.

The idea of rotating cooking oils every few months is not necessary, according to Dr. Kumar. Instead of focusing on constant changes, attention should be given to moderation and overall dietary balance. Using one or two reliable oils over an extended period is sufficient for most households. The key is to select an oil that handles heat well, use it sparingly, and maintain a balanced intake of fats. The quantity of oil consumed daily has a far greater impact on health than frequently replacing one oil with another.

In conclusion, choosing the right cooking oil is crucial for maintaining good health. Rice bran oil is a better option for Indian kitchens due to its thermal stability, heart-friendly properties, and balanced mix of fats. By prioritizing stability and restraint, individuals can make informed choices about their cooking oil and maintain a healthy diet. As a reliable and trusted news source, it is essential to provide accurate and unbiased information to help individuals make informed decisions about their health.

Palm oil has been a topic of debate when it comes to health, with several misconceptions surrounding its use. To dispel these myths, Dr. Varun Bansal, a senior consultant cardiac surgeon at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, shared his insights on the common misconceptions surrounding palm oil. Here are the five major myths debunked:

1. Palm oil is unhealthy: Dr. Bansal emphasizes that palm oil can be a safe choice when used wisely and as part of a balanced diet. It is a versatile and stable cooking oil with a high smoke point and longer shelf life.
2. Palm oil contains cholesterol: This myth is mistaken, as palm oil is 100% cholesterol-free, like all vegetable oils. It is the overall diet, not the oil alone, that determines cholesterol levels.
3. Palm oil harms the heart and increases the risk of heart disease: Dr. Bansal cites a review from the World Journal of Cardiology, which found that palm oil can actually protect the heart and blood vessels due to its antioxidant properties. Eating it as part of a normal, balanced diet does not increase the risk of heart disease.
4. Palm oil is carcinogenic: Dr. Bansal debunks this myth, stating that the concerns arise only when oils are repeatedly overheated or reused, which can form harmful compounds. This risk is common to all cooking oils.

Dr. Bansal notes that palm oil can be used for sautéing, frying, baking, or seasoning, and is thermally stable, making it ideal for Indian cooking. He recommends using 2-3 tablespoons per person per day (from all oils combined) and suggests using palm oil alongside other oils like mustard, coconut, or olive to balance fatty acid intake.

In conclusion, palm oil can be a healthy choice when consumed as part of a balanced diet. It is essential to use it wisely and in moderation, just like any other cooking oil. By debunking these common myths, Dr. Bansal aims to educate people about the benefits and safe use of palm oil.

A senior neurologist from Apollo Hospitals, Dr. Sudhir Kumar, has highlighted the importance of everyday habits in contributing to high blood pressure. While high-sodium diets and family history are well-known risk factors, Dr. Kumar emphasizes that routine behaviors, often overlooked, can gradually push blood pressure upwards. He notes that hypertension is shaped by cumulative behavior rather than isolated choices, and that ordinary habits can trigger physiological changes that impact cardiovascular health.

Dr. Kumar identifies several daily actions that can elevate blood pressure over time, including stressful driving, exercising outdoors on polluted days, long working hours, sedentary patterns, and constant pressure. He also highlights the importance of social well-being and sleep, noting that loneliness, weak social support systems, and disrupted sleep patterns can contribute to higher cardiovascular risk.

In addition, Dr. Kumar warns against diet triggers such as excessive sugar intake, high caffeine consumption, and alcohol, as well as packaged foods that contain hidden sodium. He also emphasizes the importance of regular exercise and avoiding smoking and second-hand smoke, which can cause immediate spikes in blood pressure and contribute to long-term artery damage.

The key takeaway from Dr. Kumar’s advisory is that hypertension develops gradually and is shaped by routine habits, not sudden events. He urges individuals to assess their daily routines, identify their triggers, and make incremental changes to protect heart health over the long term. By doing so, individuals can reduce their risk of developing hypertension and promote overall cardiovascular well-being.

Some of the key habits that Dr. Kumar recommends avoiding or modifying include:

* Stressful driving and exercising on polluted days
* Long working hours and sedentary patterns
* Excessive sugar intake, high caffeine consumption, and alcohol
* Packaged foods with hidden sodium
* Smoking and second-hand smoke
* Disrupted sleep patterns and loneliness

By making small changes to daily habits and being mindful of these potential triggers, individuals can take a proactive approach to protecting their heart health and reducing their risk of developing hypertension. As Dr. Kumar notes, “Blood pressure does not rise overnight; it is shaped by daily habits. Identify your triggers, fix one behavior at a time, and your arteries will thank you.”

Indraprastha Medical, also known as Indraprastha Apollo, is a multi-specialty hospital that has experienced stagnant growth in recent years. Unlike Healthcare Global Enterprises (HCG), which focuses on chronic specialty care, Indraprastha Apollo has a broader range of medical services. Despite being a well-established hospital with 750 beds, it has operated at around 80% occupancy for nearly a decade, with limited room for expansion. This was largely due to restrictions imposed by the Delhi Government, which prevented the hospital from increasing its capacity to meet growing demand.

However, the situation has changed significantly, with the Delhi State Government and Apollo Group approving a major expansion plan. This plan aims to increase the hospital’s capacity from 750 to nearly 2000 beds over the next 4-5 years. This expansion is expected to unlock strong revenue growth potential, driven by the existing demand for medical services in the region. With the expansion plan in place, Indraprastha Apollo is poised to enter a transformational growth cycle, driven by increased capacity and demand.

The expansion plan is a significant development for Indraprastha Apollo, as it will enable the hospital to increase its patient intake and provide a wider range of medical services. The hospital’s occupancy rate is expected to increase, driving revenue growth and improving profitability. The expansion will also enable Indraprastha Apollo to consolidate its position as a leading healthcare provider in the region, with a wider range of specialized services and increased capacity to meet growing demand.

Overall, the approval of the expansion plan marks a significant turning point for Indraprastha Apollo, and the hospital is well-positioned to experience a major turnaround in the coming years. With its strong brand reputation, experienced management team, and increased capacity, Indraprastha Apollo is expected to deliver strong growth and improved profitability, making it an attractive investment opportunity. As the hospital expands its capacity and services, it is likely to become a major player in the Indian healthcare sector, with a strong presence in the Delhi region.

The Alarming Rise of Childhood Obesity in India: A Growing Public Health Concern

Childhood obesity has become a significant public health challenge in India, particularly in urban areas. According to Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a neurologist at Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad, the number of children with excess body weight has increased sharply in recent years, often going unnoticed by families. The main factors contributing to this trend include the widespread acceptance of fast food, sugary drinks, and processed snacks, as well as declining physical activity due to increased screen time, irregular sleep patterns, and emotional stress.

Many parents are unaware of the seriousness of the issue, often associating a child’s roundness with good health. This misconception can lead to delayed recognition of underlying metabolic problems that may only become apparent after years of neglect. Unchecked childhood obesity can have severe long-term consequences, including type-2 diabetes, high blood pressure, liver problems, hormonal imbalances, and premature cardiovascular concerns.

To combat this issue, families can take immediate action by prioritizing home-cooked meals, restricting screen time, promoting physical activity, and maintaining structured sleep schedules. It is also essential to avoid using food as a reward or punishment and to encourage slower, portion-conscious eating habits. Regular monitoring of a child’s height, weight, BMI, and metabolic markers is also crucial.

Childhood obesity is not just a harmless phase or “baby fat”; it is a genuine medical concern that requires early attention. Timely intervention, awareness, and consistent family habits can prevent lifelong complications and build a healthier future for children. As a trusted news source, we emphasize the importance of addressing this growing public health challenge and providing reliable information to support families in making informed decisions about their children’s health.

Key Takeaways:

• Childhood obesity is a significant public health concern in India, particularly in urban areas.
• Lifestyle shifts, such as increased screen time and consumption of fast food, contribute to the rising numbers.
• Families often miss warning signs due to outdated parental perceptions.
• Unchecked childhood obesity can lead to severe long-term health consequences.
• Families can take immediate action by prioritizing healthy habits and regular monitoring.
• Childhood obesity is a genuine medical concern that requires early attention and timely intervention.

India’s thriving tech industry is home to a young and health-conscious workforce, with many professionals prioritizing their well-being by avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and undergoing regular health check-ups. However, a growing number of young IT employees are seeking medical attention for puzzling neurological symptoms, despite being considered low-risk individuals. Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a senior neurologist from Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad, has identified a common thread among these cases: Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Dr. Kumar has observed a cluster of symptoms among young professionals, including numbness or tingling in the feet, sudden shock-like sensations, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, forgetfulness, and weakness when climbing stairs. Upon investigation, he found that most of these patients have severely low Vitamin B12 levels. The neurologist attributes this deficiency to lifestyle habits typical among tech workers, such as heavy tea or coffee consumption, long hours at desks, skipped meals, and vegetarian diets without supplementation. Additionally, prolonged use of certain medications, irregular sleep, and work-related stress can also contribute to the problem.

Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in nerve insulation, brain function, mood balance, energy production, and healthy blood cells. Prolonged deficiency can lead to irreversible nerve damage, making it essential to address the issue promptly. Dr. Kumar emphasizes that diagnosing Vitamin B12 deficiency is straightforward, requiring only a basic blood test. Early supplementation can lead to full recovery, and he advises professionals to be vigilant about signs such as tingling, numbness, brain fog, or persistent tiredness.

To prevent long-term harm, Dr. Kumar recommends that young professionals check their Vitamin B12 levels annually and respond early to symptoms. This simple step can help prevent permanent nerve damage and ensure overall well-being. As a trusted and reliable news source, it is essential to raise awareness about the importance of Vitamin B12 deficiency and its potential impact on neurological health. By prioritizing nutrition and seeking medical attention when needed, India’s tech workforce can maintain their health and well-being, both on and off the job.

Apollo Hospitals has launched a dedicated Heart & Lung Transplantation and Mechanical Circulatory Support (MCS) Unit at its Seshadripuram facility in Bengaluru, Karnataka. This marks a significant milestone in the state’s transplant landscape, enhancing access to complex cardiothoracic care for patients across Karnataka and neighboring regions. The new unit is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including transplant-ready ICUs, specialized OTs, advanced monitoring systems, ECMO and MCS support, and dedicated rehabilitation pathways.

The launch was attended by Dr. J Ravishankar IAS, Managing Director of Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL), who highlighted the importance of urban mobility in supporting time-sensitive emergency care. He noted that Namma Metro played a vital role in the timely transport of a donor heart, demonstrating how public infrastructure can directly support life-saving healthcare.

The new unit will offer patients a range of advanced therapies, including heart, lung, and combined heart-lung transplantation, as well as temporary and durable mechanical circulatory support. The programme is clinically integrated and multidisciplinary, with a team of experts working together to deliver seamless care for end-stage heart and lung disease.

Dr. Kumud Kumar Dhital, Programme and Surgical Director, noted that the team has built a robust transplant service over the past two years and is now poised to deliver consistently safe and successful outcomes. Dr. Srinivas Rajagopala, Lead Lung Failure and Transplant Pulmonologist, emphasized the importance of continuity in lung care, highlighting the need for meticulous pre- and post-transplant care.

The launch event also featured patient stories, with recipients of Apollo’s transplant services sharing emotional testimonies and thanking donor families and medical teams for giving them a second chance at life. One patient, who received a heart transplant thanks to the timely transport of a donor heart via Namma Metro, praised the “right infrastructure and the right medical expertise” that came together to save his life.

The new unit is expected to significantly enhance Karnataka’s transplant capabilities, meeting the rising demand for advanced cardiac and respiratory interventions. With Karnataka emerging as one of India’s most active contributors to the organ donation pool, the Apollo programme aims to make a meaningful impact in the lives of patients and families across the region.

A 13-year-old boy from Maharashtra suffered from recurring episodes of severe abdominal pain and vomiting for over three years, despite numerous doctor visits and normal test results. His symptoms, which occurred every 6-8 weeks, included throbbing headaches, severe abdominal pain, and vomiting, leaving him incapacitated for 1-2 days. The boy’s case was eventually diagnosed as abdominal migraine, a condition characterized by chronic stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting, often triggered by stress, poor sleep, and exposure to bright light.

Abdominal migraine is a difficult-to-diagnose condition that affects 1-4% of school-going children, with girls being more prone to it than boys. The cause of abdominal migraine remains unknown, and there is no specific blood test or scan to diagnose it. Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a neurologist at Apollo Hospitals, highlighted the significance of abdominal migraine and the need for awareness among parents and healthcare professionals.

The boy’s diagnosis was made by Dr. Kumar after a thorough examination of his symptoms, family history, and episodic patterns. The treatment involved medications to target migraine symptoms, a proper sleep routine, stress management, and a balanced diet. Dr. Kumar also advised the boy’s parents to maintain a symptoms diary to track his episodes and triggers.

After treatment, the boy experienced remarkable growth and improvement, with his attacks stopping, and he was able to return to school and resume his favorite activity, playing cricket. Dr. Kumar advises parents and guardians to seek medical advice if their child experiences recurrent abdominal pain with persistent vomiting, even if scans are normal. He also emphasizes the importance of proper management of abdominal migraine, including medications, lifestyle changes, and stress management.

Dr. Kumar’s advice for parents and guardians includes:

* Seeking medical advice if the child experiences recurrent abdominal pain with persistent vomiting
* Not assuming that normal scans imply no underlying condition
* Maintaining a symptoms diary to track episodes and triggers
* Implementing lifestyle changes such as proper sleep routine, stress management, and a balanced diet
* Avoiding known dietary triggers

Overall, the case highlights the importance of awareness and proper diagnosis of abdominal migraine in children, and the need for parents and healthcare professionals to work together to manage the condition and improve the child’s quality of life.

The healthcare sector is facing a paradox in its approach to protecting life. While its primary principle is “primum non nocere” or “first, do no harm,” the sector itself is contributing to the climate crisis, which is having a devastating impact on human health. The global healthcare sector is among the top five carbon emitters in the world, with hospitals consuming large amounts of energy and water, relying on single-use materials, and generating vast quantities of waste. Every medical procedure, including surgeries, has an environmental footprint, with a single bypass surgery estimated to generate emissions equivalent to those produced by a small petrol car traveling 250 kilometers.

Climate change is already making people sicker, exacerbating respiratory conditions, affecting maternal and neonatal health, and disrupting care in vulnerable communities. The healthcare sector is not only treating the victims of climate change but also contributing to the conditions that create them. To break this cycle, healthcare providers must integrate climate responsibility into their work. Apollo Hospitals, for example, launched the Apollo Sustainability Action Plan in 2021, which aimed to reduce the hospital’s environmental impact. The plan included assessing the hospital’s emissions footprint, increasing the use of renewable energy, reducing waste, and implementing energy-saving projects.

The results have been significant, with 28% of the hospital’s energy now coming from renewable sources, and a reduction in scope one and two emissions. The hospital has also implemented sustainable procurement policies and reduced water consumption. These changes are not just cosmetic but fundamental to how healthcare is delivered in the future. A hospital cannot be considered world-class if it is not environmentally responsible, and no health system can claim to serve people if it contributes to the conditions that harm them. The climate crisis is a health emergency, and healthcare providers must take a leadership role in addressing it. By making sustainability a core value, healthcare providers can reduce their environmental impact and improve the health of their patients and the planet. As Dr. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals, notes, “the work ahead is complex, but the intention is simple: to care deeply, and to do no harm – not only to those we treat, but also to the world they live in.”