Retailers Discuss Ways to Stay Ahead of the Curve at the RAI Hyderabad Retail Summit 2024

Retailers Association of India (RAI) hosted the third edition of the Hyderabad Retail Summit (HRS) on April 24, 2024 at the Hotel ITC Kohenur Hyderabad. HRS is a content-led platform for industry stakeholders across categories to come together to learn, connect and engage in a common dialogue over issues relevant to retail in the region.

 

Speaking about the developments in the retail industry, Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO, Retailers Association of India (RAI), said, “The retail sector in Telangana has undergone a rapid transformation, spurred by a modernisation wave that blends offline assurances with online convenience. At the heart of this evolution are our tech-savvy consumers, largely influenced by the region's robust IT industry. These consumers are not just looking for products; they demand seamless integration of online accessibility and the reliability of offline retail experiences. This dynamic shift is pushing the retail industry towards a model that promises the best of both worlds, setting a benchmark for retail innovation across the nation

Highlights of the Hyderabad Retail Summit (HRS) 2024 were the in-depth panel discussion on topics such as The Modern Retail Renaissance: Innovations And Consumer-Centric Strategies, Retail Revolutionised: The Technological Transformation, and Revolutionising The Indian Grocery Industry: Technology, Supply Chains, And Logistics.

Sharing valuable insights on these panels were some prominent faces of the retail industry in the region, namely Avnish Kumar - Managing Director, Neerus Ensembles; Gautam Gupta - MD & CEO, Paradise Food Court;  P Jayakumar - CEO, Apollo Pharmacy; Taran Chhabra, Co-Founder, Neeman's, Vikash Hisariya - Managing Director, Vishal Peripherals, among others.

“As the head of RAI's Telangana Chapter and Managing Director of Neerus Ensembles, I am thrilled to witness the convergence of industry leaders at the Hyderabad Retail Summit. This summit serves as a pivotal platform for exploring and embracing new strategies tailored to evolving consumer behaviours. Our focus at RAI to connect, converse, collaborate, and catalyse is vividly brought to life here as we blend digital and physical retail landscapes, paving the way for a future where retail experiences are not only integrated but also deeply personalised to meet consumer expectations, " said Avnish Kumar, Head of RAI's Telangana Chapter, and Managing Director, Neerus Ensembles.

P Jayakumar, CEO, Apollo Pharmacy added, “Modern health care is revolutionizing with integrating technology with traditional services to offer an omni-channel experience. In Telangana, with over 800+ stores, including 24 hours outlets, and the Apollo 247 online platform, we provide a continuum of care that’s both convenient and reliable. Our services range from delivery of the medicines, lab test, doctor consultations etc., ensuring quality care is always within reach. As we adapt to the modern retail landscape, our commitment to accessible healthcare remains unwavering, backed by the trust of our customers.”

Taran Chhabra, Co-Founder of Neeman’s added, “"At the Hyderabad Retail Summit, we delved into the transformative role of technology in the footwear industry, particularly its potential to drive sustainability. This event highlights the critical need for integrating innovative technologies that not only enhance customer experiences but also promote environmental stewardship. As we continue to explore and adopt these advanced technologies, we are setting new standards for sustainability in footwear manufacturing, leading the industry towards a more responsible future."  

HRS 2024 is Presented by Ratnadeep Retail and Powered by National Mart. Platinum Partners included Neeru’s Ensembles and Amazon Pay; Retail Design Partner is 4D Experience, Associate Partners include Apollo Pharmacy, BillMade, Café Niloufer, and Donracks; Event Partners include Akrivia HCM, Intelisa, Amply, Entasis Global. Onebeat, Ravulapati TecHub, Archana Engineering, 24/7 HRM and Petra Rock; Mahendra Mithaiwala as Gifting Partners, TRRAIN as Charity Partner, STOrai as the Magazine Partner, Digital Magazine Partner - Replenish and RAI Global Linker as Networking Partner.

 

Continuous Medical Education (CME) on “Thalassemia Free Telangana” – “Thalassemia Prevention – A Prick Away”

 Hyderabad, April 24th 2024: Today, esteemed panelists, distinguished guests, and medical professionals gather for the Continuous Medical Education (CME) event focusing on “Thalassemia Free Telangana” and “Thalassemia Prevention – A Prick Away” in Hyderabad.

In his opening remarks, Shri Dr. Chandrakant Agrawal, President of TSCS Hyderabad, expressed profound pleasure in welcoming the esteemed attendees. He remarked on the notable presence of renowned Gynecologists and Obstetricians, acknowledging their pivotal role in the collective effort towards making Telangana thalassemia-free.

Dr. Agrawal emphasized the profound significance of the event's theme, stating, "The end of thalassemia is just a prick away." He highlighted the importance of each step taken in the journey towards this goal, drawing inspiration from the Chinese proverb that a thousand-mile journey begins with a single step.

The CME serves as a crucial step in the endeavor to eradicate thalassemia from Telangana, with a focus on preventive measures. Dr. Agrawal reiterated the mantra, "Thalassemia Prevention is just a prick away," encapsulating the simplicity and efficacy of preventive measures in combating this genetic disorder.

Scientific sessions including "Antenatal Screening: A Beacon in Thalassemia Battle" and "Breaking the Chain: Prenatal Diagnosis and Antenatal Screening" are aimed at enhancing knowledge and skills in thalassemia prevention. Panel discussions will further explore strategies to strengthen prevention programs.

Dr. Agrawal expressed gratitude to all attendees for their commitment to this noble cause, acknowledging their invaluable contributions of time, knowledge, and insight. He emphasized the urgency of early screening, advocating for policies mandating HbA2 testing during the first trimester of pregnancy to prevent the birth of thalassemia major children.

The Continuous Medical Education on Thalassemia (CME) is part of TSCS's ongoing efforts to eradicate thalassemia from Telangana and create a thalassemia-free state.

In our pursuit of a thalassemia-free Telangana, the organization is proud to announce the following achievements: Over 243,433 blood transfusions have been facilitated, along with 131 successful bone marrow transplantations. Additionally, they have conducted 353 Prenatal Diagnosis (PND) procedures, 73 Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) procedures, and 690 T2 MRI scans. Furthermore, the organization has organized 3,160 blood donation camps, conducted a total of 20,904 HBA2 tests, and achieved a registration count of 3,909 individuals. These accomplishments signify the relentless dedication to the cause and the unwavering commitment to creating a healthier future for all.

Indigenous Indian Surgical Robot SSI MANTRA Makes Breakthrough in Pediatric Surgery

Hyderabad, April 24, 2024:Surgical robotic systems have become synonymous with safe and precise surgical procedures worldwide. While the majority of such systems are developed in Western countries, recent advancements in India's healthcare technology landscape are reshaping the narrative. Leading this transformation is the SSI MANTRA, an indigenously developed Indian surgical robotic system spearheaded by Dr. Sudhir Prem Srivastava and his team of young Indian engineers.

Dr. Chandra Mohan Vaddi, Senior Urologist and Managing Director of Preeti Urology & Kidney Hospitals, Hyderabad, has achieved a significant milestone with the SSI MANTRA robotic system. In a groundbreaking surgery, Dr. Chandra Mohan successfully performed a robotic Pyeloplasty on a one-year-old infant, marking the first-ever surgery of its kind using a robotic system on such a small patient.

Robotic pyeloplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure for treating ureteropelvic junction obstruction. It involves using robotic instruments to reconstruct the blocked area, providing enhanced precision and shorter recovery times. It's preferred over traditional methods due to its safety and effectiveness in addressing kidney blockages.

 Dr. Chandra Mohan Vaddi of Preeti Urology & Kidney Hospitals successfully performs Robotic Pyeloplasty

The infant, brought to Preeti Urology and Kidney Hospital from Bidar, was diagnosed with left kidney swelling due to a significant block at the Uretero-Pelvic Junction during the mother's pregnancy ultrasound scan. With severe obstruction evident in the left kidney via a nuclear scan, surgery was recommended to alleviate the condition. The options included open surgery, laparoscopic, or a robotic-assisted approach.

Opting for the SSI MANTRA robotic system offered several advantages, including 3D vision, greater magnification, increased precision with wristed instruments, better access to the target area, minimally invasive techniques, and ergonomic comfort for the surgeon. Notably, the use of the indigenous SSI MANTRA system made robotic surgery more accessible and affordable, overcoming historical cost barriers associated with imported robotic systems.

Following thorough discussions and with proper consent from the parents, Dr. Chandra Mohan successfully performed the robotic Pyeloplasty with the SSI MANTRA system on the infant. The operation was a success, and the patient is now ready for discharge, marking a significant milestone in pediatric surgical robotics in India. Dr. V. Chandra Mohan expressed his optimism about the future of indigenous surgical robotics, foreseeing the SSI MANTRA system as a cost-effective solution that will revolutionize surgical procedures across India, offering safe, precise, and affordable robotic surgeries to a broader segment of the population.

SSI MANTRA - Make in India:
The indigenous Indian surgical robot SSI MANTRA embodies the spirit of the Make in India initiative by showcasing India's capability to innovate and produce advanced medical technology domestically. Spearheaded by Dr. Sudhir Prem Srivastava, SSI MANTRA signifies a significant step towards self-reliance in healthcare. Developed by Indian engineers, it exemplifies India's potential to lead in cutting-edge medical innovations. By manufacturing SSI MANTRA within the country, India not only reduces dependency on imported medical devices but also fosters economic growth and job creation in the domestic medical technology sector. Thus, SSI MANTRA contributes substantially to the goals and ethos of the Make in India initiative.

SSI MANTRA is an indigenously developed Indian surgical robotic system spearheaded by Dr. Sudhir Prem Srivastava. The system is designed to assist surgeons in performing complex surgical procedures with enhanced accuracy and efficiency. It incorporates features such as 3D vision, wristed instruments for increased precision, and minimally invasive techniques for reduced patient trauma and faster recovery times.

Impact of vegetarian and non-vegetarian diets on kidney stones

What are kidney stones and how do they form?

Kidney stones are solid deposits that form within the kidneys when certain substances in the urine, such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, become highly concentrated. Over time, these substances crystallize and clump together, causing painful mineral deposits.

Is diet a factorfor kidney stones?

Yes, very much. Diet plays a crucial role in the development of kidney stones. The composition of kidney stones can be influenced by dietary choices, and there are notable differences between the stones formed in individuals following vegetarian and non-vegetarian diets.

Non-Vegetarian Diet:

 

·        Higher Protein Intake: Non-vegetarian diets typically include higher amounts of animal proteins from sources such as meat, poultry, and fish. These proteins can lead to increased levels of uric acid in the urine, promoting the formation of uric acid stones. Additionally, animal proteins contain purines, which are metabolized into uric acid, further contributing to stone formation.

·        Increased Animal Fat Consumption: Animal fats present in non-vegetarian diets can lead to higher levels of calcium and oxalate in the urine, increasing the risk of calcium oxalate stones, the most common type of kidney stone.

·        Lower Fiber Content: Non-vegetarian diets may lack sufficient dietary fibre, which plays a crucial role in preventing the absorption of calcium and oxalate in the intestines. Inadequate fibre intake can result in higher levels of these substances in the urine, predisposing individuals to calcium oxalate stone formation.

Vegetarian Diet:

·        Higher Oxalate Content: Vegetarian diets often contain foods rich in oxalates, such as spinach, kale, nuts, and certain fruits. While oxalates are naturally occurring compounds found in plant foods, they can contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate stones in susceptible individuals by binding with calcium in the urine.

·        Lower Animal Protein Intake: Compared to non-vegetarian diets, vegetarian diets typically contain lower amounts of animal proteins. This can result in decreased uric acid levels in the urine, reducing the risk of uric acid stone formation.

·        Higher Fluid and Citrate Intake: Many vegetarian foods, such as fruits and vegetables, are rich in water and citrate, which help prevent the formation of kidney stones by increasing urine volume and inhibiting the crystallization of stone-forming substances.

 

 

How can individuals prevent the formation of kidney stones regardless of their dietary preferences?

Regardless of dietary preferences, certain measures can help prevent the formation of kidney stones and manage existing conditions:

 

·        Stay Hydrated - Adequate fluid intake is crucial for diluting urine and preventing the concentration of stone-forming substances.

·        Balanced Diet - Whether vegetarian or non-vegetarian, consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help minimize the risk of kidney stone formation.

·        Limit Sodium and Processed Foods - High sodium intake can increase calcium levels in the urine, contributing to stone formation. Limiting processed foods and excess salt can help mitigate this risk.

·        Monitor Oxalate Intake - While oxalates are present in many plant foods, individuals prone to calcium oxalate stones may benefit from moderating their consumption of high-oxalate foods.

·        Medical Advice - Individuals with a history of kidney stones or those experiencing symptoms should seek medical advice for personalized recommendations and treatment options.

 

What is the role of Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) in kidney stone treatment?

Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) has emerged as a game-changer in kidney stone treatment. It is a minimally invasive procedure performed without making any incisions, reducing trauma to surrounding tissues and minimizing post-operative pain. At Star Hospitals, RIRS is performed with the utmost precision and care, utilizing a flexible ureteroscope,navigating through the urinary tract with precision, effectively targeting and removing stones of any size or location within the kidney. This technique boasts a high success rate in eliminating kidney stones. Patients can get discharge the next day and return to their normal activities sooner, thus minimizing hospitalization needs. Additionally, it is associated with a lower risk of complications, including infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding organs, making it a safer option for many patients. RIRS treats a wide range of kidney stones with varied types and sizes, including complex or multiple stones, providing a comprehensive solution for diverse patient needs.

 

 

Kid with Rare Alagille Syndrome gets a New Lease of Life with Successful Liver Transplantation at CARE Hospitals

Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, April 19, 2024 - Varun Mitra, a 12-year-old boy with dreams of exploring the stars as an astrophysicist, faced a daunting health challenge from a young age. Overcoming persistent jaundice, stunted growth, severe itching, shortness of breath and a host of troubling symptoms, Varun's journey of life took a heartfelt turn as he underwent a transformative medical breakthrough at CARE Hospitals.

Varun's medical journey began with a misdiagnosis of biliary atresia at birth, which led to failed corrective surgery. His symptoms persisted, and his condition worsened over time. Concerned about their son's deteriorating health, Varun's parents turned to CARE Hospitals and sought the expertise of Dr. Mohammed Nayeem, a distinguished liver transplant surgeon at CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, renowned for his state-of-the-art work in the field of paediatric & adult liver transplantation.

After thorough evaluation, it was discovered that Varun was suffering from Alagille Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder affecting multiple organs, including the liver and heart. With his liver function rapidly declining and complications arising from pulmonary artery stenosis, a combined approach was necessary for treatment. Alagille Syndrome affects approximately 1 in 100,000 children and requires timely diagnosis and intervention for optimal outcomes. Liver transplantation plays a crucial role in managing progressive liver failure in these patients, but the presence of additional organ involvement complicates treatment.


"Varun's case epitomizes the significance of multidisciplinary intervention and holistic compassionate care for children grappling with complex medical conditions. His phenomenal recovery is a testament to the transformative power of innovative medical interventions in combating formidable challenges like Alagille Syndrome. Varun's indomitable spirit, coupled with the unwavering support of his family, helped in his expeditious recovery." – said Dr. Mohammed Nayeem, Liver Transplant Surgeon, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad.

Under the able guidance of Dr. Nayeem and his team, Varun embarked on a journey through a maze of intricate procedures. A heart-stenting procedure was performed initially to address the blockage in his pulmonary artery. Varun’s mother, through her selfless act, blissfully volunteered to donate a portion of her liver to ensure the survival of her beloved child.


"Varun's remarkable journey highlights the exceptional capabilities of CARE Hospitals in delivering unparalleled healthcare excellence. Our state-of-the-art transplant facility stands as a beacon of hope for patients facing complex medical conditions, offering cutting-edge treatment. With highly skilled and dedicated teams, we are equipped to handle even the most challenging cases with precision and compassion. Varun's successful outcome is a testament to our commitment to providing world-class care to all our patients." – Mr. Syed Kamran, Chief Operating Officer, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad.

Varun underwent successful liver transplantation, overcoming significant challenges posed by his concurrent heart condition and the need to continue blood thinners. Varun and his mother both made a remarkable recovery, with Varun displaying renewed energy and enthusiasm.

Varun's successful outcome serves as a beacon of hope for children battling rare diseases, emphasizing the importance of early detection and comprehensive care in improving quality of life.

World Liver Day 2024

 

Understanding and Managing Fatty Liver Disease by
 Dr. Golamari Srinivasa Reddy

Hyderabad 18-04-2024:

What is NAFLD(Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease)?NAFLD is the most common problem seen in daily practice. Butawareness about the disease is not known to many people. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major cause of chronic liver disease worldwide, and its clinical and economic burden will continue to grow with parallel increases in rates of obesity, diabetes, and the metabolic syndrome. Recent studies also suggest that these patients are at elevated risk for cardiovascular, malignancy, and liver-related morbidity and mortality, although their risk for progression, decompensation, and hepatocellular carcinoma, spectrum of liver diseases encompasses the entire spectrum of NAFLD in individuals without significant alcohol consumption, ranging from fatty liver (steatosis) to NASH (Steatohepatitis) to cirrhosis. Steatosis is a common condition caused by having too much fat build up in your liver. A healthy liver contains a small amount of fat. It becomes a problem when fat reaches >5% of your liver’s weight.NASH means fat +inflamed liver which leads to fibrosis and cirrhosis.NAFLD is generally silent and potentially reversible. NASH can progress to advanced fibrosis and cirrhosis. NAFLD is hepatic manifestation of Metabolic Syndrome(MS).It is more common in obesity, but one more entity called as Lean NASH which is seen in patients with BMI <25 kg/m, more common among Asians with genetic morphisms

What is its prevalence?In India, the prevalence is about 35%. It increases upto 88% if people have diabetes millitus. 90% of NAFLD patients have at least one component of Metabolic Syndrome. Nearly 30% of NAFLD patients have all components of Metabolic Syndrome, 7-20% in lean people.

What are the key regulators for fatty liver? Insulin resistance with central obesity is the driving event.Lipotoxicity(High cholesterol) and gut dysbiosis(intestine bacteria),high caloric diet, physical inactivity, relative calorie excess, all lead to fatty liver disease.Inter organ cross talk results in progressive and persistent inflammation leading to fibrosis, visceral adiposity and genetic polymorphisms.

What causes/who gets fatty liver disease? Fatty liver has strong associations with obesity/overweight, T2DM,high blood pressure Dyslipidemia (high cholesterol), polycystic ovary syndrome,hypothyroidoism.

What is the effect of NAFLD on the population? NAFL, over period of six years follow up leads to 11% risk of fibrosis, cirrhosis and HCC,7% risk of liver related and all cause mortality. In one study, 3500 patients over 19-years of follow-up, 1039 people died, NAFLD with all MS components was associated with overall, cardiac and liver-mortality, lower survival.

 

 

What are the symptoms of fatty liver? People with fatty liver disease often have no symptoms until the disease progresses to cirrhosis of the liver. Symptoms could be like feeling of fullness in the upper right side of the abdomen, nausea, loss of appetite.

How is fatty liver disease diagnosed? Because fatty liver disease often has no symptoms, your physician may be the first one to spot it. Higher levels of liver enzymes that turn up on a blood test for other conditions may raise a red flag. Elevated liver enzymes are a sign your liver is injured. To diagnosis, ultrasound of abdomen is done to get a picture of the liver to see grade of the liver. Once fatty liver is diagnosed in ultrasound one should meet a hepatologist to get a fibro scan done to find out the amount of fat and scar tissue present in the liver. Fibro scan gives us fat fraction and fibrosis in liver. If fat fraction or fibrosis is more then liver biopsy needs to be done to see the extent of the disease.

How is fatty liver disease treated? The medication specifically for fatty liver disease will depend on the severity of liver disease. Hepatologists focus on helping you manage factors that contribute to the condition. Treatment includes - avoiding alcohol, losing weight, taking medications to manage diabetes, fat in the blood. Antioxidants like vitamin E, some newer drugs will help stop progression of the disease.

How can fatty liver disease be prevented? The best way to avoid fatty liver disease is to do the things that maintain overall health- stay at a healthy weight. If you are overweight/obesity, lose weight gradually, exercise regularly, limit your alcohol consumption, take medications as prescribed, and do regular health check-ups with

your hepatologist.