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Hepatitis in Punjab: Rising Cases and Treatment Efforts

Understanding Hepatitis

Hepatitis is a medical term that describes the inflammation of the liver, a critical organ responsible for numerous essential functions such as detoxification, protein production, and assisting in digestion.

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Hepatitis in Punjab has emerged as a serious public health challenge, with rising cases linked to intravenous drug use and poor preventive practices. Hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver, disrupts vital functions such as detoxification and protein production, often leading to severe complications. Viral forms like hepatitis A, B, C, and E account for most infections globally, and July 28, observed as World Hepatitis Day, underscores the urgency of tackling this preventable disease.

Hepatitis A and E usually spread through contaminated food or water, often causing jaundice, while severe cases can progress to acute liver failure. In contrast, hepatitis B and C spread through infected blood or bodily fluids, with chronic infections leading to cirrhosis, end-stage liver disease, or liver cancer.

Punjab has become a high-burden state for hepatitis C, largely due to widespread intravenous drug abuse. Experts at PGIMER note that the outpatient liver clinic alone sees nearly 1,000 chronic viral hepatitis patients every year. To counter this crisis, Punjab introduced the decentralized ECHO hub-and-spoke model, which has gained national and international recognition for improving access to diagnosis and treatment.

Alarming trends also show a surge in hepatitis A cases, with nearly half of the acute liver failure admissions at PGIMER linked to this virus. Doctors warn of its atypical presentation, including prolonged jaundice and severe itching, sometimes requiring advanced treatments like plasma exchange.

Vaccination remains one of the strongest preventive measures. Experts stress the importance of hepatitis B vaccination within 24 hours of birth to curb mother-to-child transmission. Alongside, maintaining hygiene, consuming safe food and water, avoiding intravenous drug use, ensuring sterilized equipment for tattoos and piercings, and practicing safe sex are essential steps to reduce infection risks.

Regular testing is equally critical since chronic hepatitis often shows no early symptoms. Individuals with prior transfusions, drug use, or family history of liver disease, as well as pregnant women, are urged to prioritize early screening.

Government support through the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program provides free diagnosis and treatment at facilities like PGIMER and district hospitals across Punjab, with cure rates proving highly encouraging.

As World Hepatitis Day draws near, experts emphasize that awareness, prevention, and timely treatment are vital to reducing the burden of Hepatitis in Punjab. Collective action from authorities, healthcare professionals, and communities can pave the way toward a healthier and safer future.

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Chandigarh Study Shows Hope for Diabetes Remission

Diabetes is a serious health issue for many people in India.

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Chandigarh Study Shows Hope for Diabetes Remission
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Chandigarh study shows hope for diabetes remission, giving new light to people living with Type 2 diabetes in India. A team at PGIMER Chandigarh, led by Dr. Rama Walia, carried out this research and showed that a smart mix of medicines and lifestyle changes can make a big difference. The results were inspiring; around 31% of patients in the study managed to achieve remission, meaning they controlled their blood sugar without taking regular medicines.

Type 2 diabetes has become very common in India. It happens when the body cannot use insulin the right way. Insulin is the hormone that helps sugar enter cells and give energy. If sugar remains in the blood, it leads to high sugar levels, which over time can cause heart disease, kidney failure, and eye problems. This study brought forward a practical way to fight back against the disease.

The patients in the program followed a strict lifestyle. They ate balanced meals, avoided junk food, and did regular exercise. These steps, combined with proper medical care, helped them reduce dependence on medicines. Dr. Walia explained that success comes when patients track their health regularly and receive strong support from doctors and families.

Chandigarh is already known for good health programs and has been ranked the cleanest city in India many times. A clean environment helps people fight diseases and supports healthy living. Experts believe that both medical treatment and environmental factors play a big role in diabetes care.

The study had some clear lessons. First, 31% of participants reached remission. Second, lifestyle changes were as important as medicines. Third, health must be monitored closely. And finally, healthy cities encourage healthier citizens. These points can guide doctors, families, and patients in planning better diabetes care.

PGIMER has a strong history in diabetes research. Doctors there have guided national policies and shaped treatments across India. This new study adds proof that remission is possible if people combine medical treatment with disciplined daily habits. It also shows the need for government support in building healthy surroundings.

For individuals, the message is clear. They should eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. And they must exercise for at least 30 minutes daily. They need regular health check-ups to prevent risks. Families and communities can also play a role by motivating each other, joining wellness groups, and sharing healthy habits.

Doctors suggest that people take part in community awareness programs. Moreover, they should learn from others who have managed diabetes well and apply those lessons in their own lives. In addition, support from friends, family, and neighbors makes lifestyle changes easier to follow.

Furthermore, the findings are not only for patients but also for healthcare providers. For example, hospitals and clinics can use the study’s diagrams and data to improve treatment plans. At the same time, policymakers can use this evidence to design better programs for public health.

Meanwhile, the commitment of Chandigarh’s local government to clean surroundings and better health facilities proves that environment and healthcare go hand in hand. As a result, people benefit from healthier lifestyles and stronger disease control. However, as India continues to face the rising threat of diabetes, such research offers a ray of hope for millions.

In conclusion, the Chandigarh study shows hope for diabetes remission, giving patients confidence that remission is possible through smart choices, discipline, and support. With more awareness and community effort, India can move toward a healthier future.

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New AI Devices Launched in Punjab to Detect Cancer Early

The Punjab government is taking a big step to help detect cancer early.

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New AI Devices Launched in Punjab to Detect Cancer Early
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A major step in healthcare took place when new AI devices launched in Punjab to detect cancer and vision problems early. On September 23, 2024, Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh announced the rollout of AI-enabled machines for breast cancer, cervical cancer, and vision screening. He called this launch a “historic leap forward” and noted that it is the first initiative of its kind in India.

These devices are portable and safe because they do not use harmful radiation. As a result, they can reach rural areas, schools, and community health centers without creating fear of side effects.

Eight districts will begin using these devices: Amritsar, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Patiala, Sangrur, Mohali, Faridkot, and Fatehgarh Sahib. The government hopes this coverage will improve early detection rates and create awareness about timely screenings.

The devices include:

  • Thermalytix by Niramai for breast cancer screening.
  • Smart Scope by Periwinkle for cervical cancer testing.
  • Portable Autorefractometer by Forus Health for vision checks.

Punjab has faced rising cancer cases, with 42,288 new cases in 2024, a 7% jump compared to the previous year. Unfortunately, very few women receive regular screenings. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), only 0.3% of women between 30 and 49 have ever been screened for breast cancer, and just 2.4% for cervical cancer.

Because early detection saves lives, these new devices are seen as a game-changer. The government has set a target of at least 600 daily eye check-ups and 300 cancer screenings. By achieving this, thousands of people could get access to the healthcare they usually miss.

Many families in Punjab live in rural or remote areas where big hospitals are far away. Portable AI devices now make it possible for health workers to bring screening services directly to them. This reduces travel barriers and makes healthcare more accessible.

The state government is also planning education drives to spread awareness about the importance of regular screenings. Without knowledge, many people ignore early signs of illness. By teaching communities, officials hope to increase participation and save more lives.

Doctors say these devices will also reduce the burden on large hospitals. If health workers detect more cases early at the community level, hospitals can focus on advanced treatments. This makes the entire health system stronger and more effective.

Cancer and eye health remain two big challenges in Punjab. However, this new project shows the commitment of the government to invest in both technology and public health. Experts believe that such initiatives could serve as a model for other Indian states.

As these devices begin working in the community, results will be closely monitored. The long-term goal is not only to catch diseases early but also to lower cancer rates across the state.

In conclusion, the new AI devices launched in Punjab bring hope for a healthier tomorrow. By combining advanced technology, awareness programs, and community outreach, Punjab is taking a strong step toward reducing cancer and vision problems for its people.

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Chandigarh Drug Rehab Centre Faces Challenges in Recovery

In Chandigarh, there is a drug rehabilitation centre run by the Society for Promotion of Youth and Masses (SPYM).

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Chandigarh Drug Rehab Centre Faces Challenges in Recovery
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In Chandigarh, the Chandigarh Drug Rehab Centre faces challenges as patients struggle with recovery in limited facilities. The centre, run by the Society for Promotion of Youth and Masses (SPYM), is located near the Indian Air Force Heritage Centre between Sector 17 and 18. While it plays an important role, the lack of outdoor space raises serious concerns about patient well-being.

Patients at the SPYM centre remain indoors all the time because there is no place for outdoor activities. Without sunlight or fresh air, recovery becomes more difficult. Health experts say people in drug rehabilitation need physical activities such as gardening, sports, or walking outside. These activities help them heal and return to normal life.

Dr. Ajeet K Sidana, head of psychiatry at Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH-32), explains that patients dependent on drugs are not physically sick. Instead, they need structured outdoor activities to rebuild their lives. Keeping them locked inside 24×7 harms recovery.

The demand for treatment is increasing every year. In 2022, GMCH’s Drug De-Addiction Clinic saw over 2,440 patients, including 780 new cases. By 2023, that number rose to around 3,000, with 737 new patients. In 2024, the figures grew again to 3,156 patients, including 900 new ones. These individuals seek help for addictions to alcohol, opioids, cannabis, nicotine, and other substances.

Despite these numbers, Chandigarh has very limited inpatient care. Most patients only receive outpatient treatment, meaning they visit hospitals but do not stay overnight. PGIMER and GMCH-32 are the only facilities offering inpatient drug de-addiction care. Yet neither provides long-term rehabilitation services.

PGIMER often has long waiting lists because it serves patients from several regions. GMCH-32 has just eight beds for medicine-dependent patients. This shows how difficult it is for patients to find proper care. To make matters worse, the drug de-addiction centre at Government Multi-Specialty Hospital in Sector 16 has remained closed since 2020.

The only rehabilitation option left is the SPYM centre in Sector 18. It gets ₹13 lakh annually from the UT health department. However, its lack of outdoor and recreational facilities questions its effectiveness. The 2014 Chandigarh Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Counselling and Rehabilitation Centre Rules clearly require outdoor spaces and recreational activities. Without them, patients cannot receive the complete support they need.

Health officials admit the problem. Dr. Suman Singh, director of health and family welfare, stated that the centre lacks outdoor space due to infrastructure limits. Although other services are in place, this gap directly affects recovery.

Experts and community members now call for urgent reforms. Patients deserve better facilities, and the government must act quickly. With the rising number of cases, Chandigarh needs more centres with proper infrastructure, outdoor areas, and enough beds to meet the demand.

Recovery is possible when treatment facilities match patient needs. Outdoor activities, community engagement, and medical care together build a healthier environment. Without change, many patients will continue to struggle to find help.

In conclusion, the SPYM-run facility remains important but incomplete. The absence of outdoor space undermines patient healing. As demand continues to grow, the city must improve its infrastructure and services. Only then can recovery journeys succeed. Truly, Chandigarh Drug Rehab Centre faces challenges, and solving them is critical for public health.

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