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News Roundup
PM inaugurates CNCI’s second campus in Kolkata
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the second campus of Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute in Kolkata. The second campus of CNCI has been built at a cost of over Rs 540 crore, out of which around Rs 400 crores have been provided by the Union government and the rest by the West Bengal government, in the ratio of 75:25. The campus is a 460-bedded comprehensive cancer centre unit with cutting edge infrastructure for cancer diagnosis, staging, treatment and care.
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.....inaugurates 11 medical colleges in TN
The PM inaugurated 11 new medical colleges in Tamil Nadu through video conference. Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, Dr L Murugan and Dr Bharati Pawar, Chief Minister Tamil Nadu MK Stalin were present on the occasion. The new medical colleges are being established at an estimated cost of about Rs 4000 crore, out of which around Rs 2145 crore has been provided by the Union government and the rest by the Tamil Nadu government. The districts in which the new medical colleges are being established are Virudhunagar, Namakkal, The Nilgiris, Tiruppur, Thiruvallur, Nagapattinam, Dindigul, Kallakurichi, Ariyalur, Ramanathapuram and Krishnagiri.
Kochi’s Amrita Hospital nominated as Advanced Centre for Clinical Trials by ICMR
The 1,300-bed Amrita Hospital in Kochi has been designated as Advanced Center for Clinical Trials (ACCT) by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the country’s apex body for the formulation, coordination, and promotion of biomedical research. Amrita Hospital is among the only three hospitals in South India – and the only one from Kerala – to be nominated as ACCT by ICMR. Launch of HBOT unit at Narayana Health City
Narayana Health City sets up HBOT unit
Narayana Health City recently launched a dedicated regenerative medicine with a hyperbaric oxygen facility at its campus. The department was inaugurated by John Shaw – Vice Chairman, Biocon in the presence of Dr Devi Shetty – Founder and Chairman, Narayana Health, Dr Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Executive Chairperson and Founder, Biocon, Dr Paul C Salins – Medical Director and Sr. Vice-President, Mazumdar Shaw Medical Centre and Mr. Viren Shetty – Executive Director and Group COO, Narayana Health. The dedicated department will offer Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), one of the most evolved, yet underutilised treatment options. In this modality, therapeutic administration of oxygen (100 per cent pure oxygen) is given in a pressurised environment.
Advent International has signed a definitive agreement with Dr AV Rama Rao, a distinguished scientist and his family to acquire a controlling stake in Avra Laboratories. Avra Laboratories is a science-driven organisation with a strong research and development (‘R&D’) team trained under the leadership of Dr AV Rama Rao, which is focused on niche generic molecules as well as proprietary custom synthesis business for global pharmaceutical players. Over a long period of time, Avra Laboratories has forged many successful partnerships with innovator companies and strongly positioned itself as a partner of choice in manufacturing complex small volume molecules. Leveraging its in-house pool of scientific talent, Avra Laboratories has a long and consistent track record of high profitability and above industry margins.
HLM acquires 100% stakes in Care24
Care24, a leading home healthcare platform operating in Mumbai and Delhi, has been acquired by Human Life Management (HLM), a leading Japanese home medical support corporation. HLM, led by Yoshiki Sasaki, which has been a prime investor in Care24 from the past two years and holds multiple businesses in healthcare and other sectors. Care24 will extend its robust service delivery and agile technology platform for HLM and will cater to the evolving healthcare needs of the customers. Post the acquisition, HLM and Care24 will closely work together to scale and strengthen medical service offerings in India and additionally expand to other southeast countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia using Yushoukai’s deep
medical expertise and Care24’s superior software development and technology capabilities.
Digital A Plus group of companies has launched OMNICONNECT360, a cutting edge solution providing their clients, and remote customers with a simplified, costeffective and integrated digital ecosystem. The feature is designed to effectively manage business marketing functions as well as scientific and brand communication of healthcare and life science companies. OMNICONNECT360 offers integrated multi-channel solutions with various modules of services to their audience. It is a one-stop solution that aims to reduce the time frame right from ideation, planning, development, deployment, execution to analytics.
ICMR approves KRIVIDA Novus RT-PCR kit
KRIVIDA Novus RT-PCR kit, developed by Chennai-based KRIYA Medical Technologies in collaboration with ImmuGenix Bioscience, has received approval from ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research). The kit detects the SARS-CoV-2 virus and also differentiates the Omicron variant from Delta and other variants. The test takes just about 45 minutes to detect the infection and determine the variant.
SPARSH Group of Hospitals has launched a new multi-organ transplant centre at Sparsh RR Nagar Unit, Mysore Road, Bengaluru to offer comprehensive and multidisciplinary care to patients. Led by Dr Kumud Dhital, a globally renowned Heart and Lung Transplant Surgeon, SPARSH Multi-Organ Transplant Centre brings together a team of 50 highly experienced transplant specialists who will provide integrated care during every step of the transplant process. The 50-member multidisciplinary team at SPARSH encompasses a group of highly skilled and experienced doctors.
Inauguration of multi-organ transplant centre at Sparsh RR Nagar Unit, Mysore Road, Bengaluru
The launch event was inaugurated by Dr K Sudhakar, Minister of Medical Education and Health, Government of Karnataka.
Lupin signs promotional agreement with Exeltis on SOLOSEC
Lupin Pharmaceuticals and Exeltis USA announced a promotional agreement for Exeltis to promote SOLOSEC along with Exeltis’ existing line of Women’s Health products, further enhancing value to OBGYNs and their patients. SOLOSEC is indicated for the treatment of Bacterial Vaginosis in adult women (a common vaginal infection) and Trichomoniasis in adults (the most common non-viral, curable sexually transmitted infection in the US.).
...signs first partnership agreement with Chinabased Foncoo
Lupin has entered into a partnership with Shenzhen Foncoo Pharmaceutical Co (Foncoo). This is Lupin’s first partnership arrangement in China and reinforces Lupin’s commitment to bringing high quality generic and complex generic medicines to patients around the world.
Roche launches COVID-19 At-Home Test
Roche Diagnostics India has launched COVID-19 At-Home Test. The over-thecounter test is intended to be used for
At-Home Test kit
the detection of SARS CoV-2 infection in individuals with symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 and is approved by ICMR. The company has already brought a wide range of COVID-19 testing solutions to the country including the gold standard RT-PCR test, a lab-based antigen test, and Rapid Antigen tests for professional use. Individuals can perform the self-test at home without special training or the supervision of a healthcare worker and expect results in 15 minutes. The test collects the sample from the front area of the nose instead of the nasopharynx, resulting in a simplified and more comfortable sampling procedure. The test will be available in e-pharmacies and local pharmacies and requires no prescription.
CSIR signs MoU with Institut Pasteur
An MoU was signed recently between CSIR and Institut Pasteur with scope for cooperation in health research. CSIR and Institut Pasteur would be jointly researching and focusing on emerging and reemerging infectious diseases and inherited disorders and enable the delivery of effective and affordable healthcare solutions not only for the people of India and France but for the global good. The MoU provides for developing potential scientific and technological cooperation and networking in advanced and emerging areas of Human Health between scientists and institutes/laboratories of CSIR and Institut Pasteur and its international network.
JBCPL to acquire brands from Sanzyme for Rs 628 crores
JB Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Limited (JBCPL) will acquire brands for the Indian market from Sanzyme, a leading player in the probiotics and reproductive health segment in the country. The transaction is valued at Rs 628 crore and is expected to be completed in the next two weeks subject to customary closing formalities.
Bharat Biotech’s Krishna and Suchitra Ella and SII’s Cyrus Poonawala to receive Padma Bhushan
The Government of India has announced the Padma Awards 2022. This year vaccine makers Bharat Biotech’s Krishna Ella and Suchitra Ella and Serum Institute of India’s Cyrus Poonawala will receive the Padma Bhushan. Dr Himmatrao Bawaskar and Dr Vijaykumar Vinayak Dongre, Dr Bhimsen Singhal, from Maharashtra, Dr Prokar Dasgupta from the UK, Dr Lata Desai from Gujarat, Dr Sunkara Venkata Adinarayana Rao, Andhra Pradesh, Dr Veeraswamy Seshiah from Tamil Nadu and Dr Kamlakar Tripathi from Uttar Pradesh will receive the Padma Shri in medicine. Dr Narendra Prasad Misra from Madhya Pradesh and Dr Balaji Tambe from Maharashtra will receive the award posthumously.
EIDO Healthcare collaborates with Thieme to enter Indian
Thieme and EIDO are working together to improve patient education in India. The collaboration sees Thieme assume responsibility for sales and marketing activities in the Indian market for EIDO’s INFORM Consent Suite (ICS) – a collection of over 400 procedure-specific, patient education documents for informed consent in surgery – and EIDO’s digital consent solution. Thieme India is a well-established digital health service provider and partner for health information processes in the Indian clinical market. EIDO Healthcare, a British company, is already present in Europe, Australia, North America and Africa, and will expand its Asian operations through this collaboration.
AGI glaspac inaugurates manufacturing facility for speciality glass division
AGI glaspac, a leading container glass bottle manufacturer, inaugrated its new manufacturing facility in Bhongir, Telangana. With an aim to cater to the growing demand in the speciality glass segment, the new 154 TPD (Tonnes per day) glass plant has initiated the production of clear glass products such as vials, nail polish bottles, etc. These clear glass products are primarily used for pharmaceutical products, premium spirits, food and beverages and also to make water bottles and candle jars. The facility will provide direct employment to 350+ people and will serve foreign markets along with the Indian markets.
IIT Madras, Krea University study suggests ways to boost medicine supply deliveries
Indian Institute of Technology Madras and Krea University, Chennai, conducted a study that can help states boost medical deliveries. The study showed that fill rates of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Odisha and Punjab could potentially rise to 53 per cent as compared to an average fill rate of 30.95 per cent. These four states were chosen for the study as they were the largest Indian states with the largest populations in the country. Essential medicine procurement in the Indian Public health system is undertaken by the State-level medical service corporations (MSC). Some states, such as Kerala, follow a centralised system, while others like Punjab. Tamil Nadu and Odisha follow a decentralised system, which is a mix of the two. The study found that despite the operational, logistic, and infrastructural challenges that exist in the current drug supply system, several measures can be undertaken by state governments to considerably ease the system and address the medicine shortage.
Granules India appoints Dr KVS Ram Rao as Joint MD and CEO
Granules India Limited (GIL), announced the appointment of Dr KVS Ram Rao as Joint Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) with effect from January 5, 2022. Dr Ram Rao has over two decades of experience in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries. Dr Ram Rao holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Osmania University, Hyderabad and
Dr KVS Ram Rao
a master’s degree and PhD in chemical engineering from the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. He has over 29 years of experience in the field of manufacturing, R&D, business and customer service management. He worked as Executive Director & CEO for CSM Business of PI Industries. He played a significant role in Dr Reddy’s Laboratories Limited while working in various capacities from 2000 to 2018. He also worked with Jubilant Life Sciences and Gujarat Heavy Chemicals.
Apollo Hospitals Group has announced a collaboration with ‘The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic’, to bring international second opinion services to their patients. Through this programme, doctors at Apollo can collaborate with leading medical experts at Cleveland Clinic to review complex cases and devise the most appropriate treatment plan. Anyone looking to seek an international second opinion can consult an Apollo consultant, and express interest in the service.
Cross Border Healthcare start-up Hospals raises $3.5 M
Hospals, a cross border health benefits and travel platform that enables international patients to access healthcare across India, the UAE, Turkey and Thailand, announced part raise of its Pre-Series A investment from Inflection Point Ventures, 9Unicorns, Singapore-based Wavemaker and prominent angels like Kunal Shah, Sanjeev Mishra and Razorpay founders. Existing investor Venture Catalysts has also participated in the current round. The funds raised will be used for expanding geographically to reach $900 mn in GMV, serving 1.5 million subscribers and patients to get quality medical and cosmetic treatments across the world.
Ram Mudaliar to lead AstraZeneca India’s CDI Division
AstraZeneca India announced the appointment of Ram Mudaliar as the India lead of their Clinical Data & Insights (CDI) division. Mudaliar worked with AstraZeneca Canada, managing the delivery of the lung portfolio and leading oncology data management teams in the North American region and Europe. He has also worked as Interim Global Head of Oncology in Data Management for a brief period. Mudaliar’s appointment follows the launch of the CDI India division in October 2021. As CDI India Lead, Mudaliar will be responsible for establishing and expanding the CDI footprint in India, liaising with CDI global and local leaders to develop and implement strategic decisions for the India site. He is also responsible for ensuring the local planning and coordination relating to facilities and enabling support for the India team, connecting with Facilities Management, Human Resources, IT, Compliance, R&D Site Leadership and other functions as required.
Novo Nordisk India launches GLP-1 RA, Oral Semaglutide, to treat diabetes
Novo Nordisk India launched the world’s first and only “peptide in a pill”, oral semaglutide, a gamechanger in diabetes management. Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor analogue (GLP-1 RA) – one of the drug classes to treat diabetes, till now was available only in the form of injections. This is the first time a GLP-1 RA has been developed in an oral formulation. Oral semaglutide is a co-formulation of GLP-1RA semaglutide with an absorption enhancer SNAC which protects semaglutide from undergoing degradation in the stomach like other peptides and enhances its absorption. Novo Nordisk invested 15 years of continuous research, innovation, and development to makethe oral formulation of semaglutide into a reality. Due to this scientific breakthrough, it received the Prix Galien Award in 2020, a prestigious award in the industry, for the best biotech innovation.
IHL Care launches Digital Health Centre
India Health Link (IHL) – a medical device and wellness care company based out of Bengaluru, committed to building a connected ‘user centric’ healthcare ecosystem through its advanced digital
platform and award-winning health station – “hPod”, has come up with a customised solution. IHL Care ‘Digital Health Centre’ is a first of its kind Integrated Heart Health Programme that complements Corporate Wellness, providing customised health solutions. The ‘hPod’ brought by IHL Care is a self-service ATM size health station. It is capable of screening (20+) essential vital parameters including key parameters like Blood Pressure, Temperature, Body Mass Composition, Pulse, SPO2, and ECG, without any paramedic assistance.
Glenmark receives ANDA approval for Metronidazole Vaginal Gel, 0.75%
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals has received final approval by the United States Food & Drug Administration (US FDA) for Metronidazole Vaginal Gel, 0.75 per cent, the generic version of MetroGel-Vaginal Gel, 0.75 per cent, of Bausch Health US. Glenmark’s current portfolio consists of 173 products authorised for distribution in the US marketplace and 46 ANDA’s pending approval with the US FDA. In addition to these internal filings, Glenmark continues to identify and explore external development partnerships to supplement and accelerate the growth of its existing pipeline and portfolio.
Sai Life Sciences appoints Sauri Gudlavalleti as COO
Sai Life Sciences, a leading global Contract Research, Development & Manufacturing Organization (CRO-CDMO), announced the appointment of Sauri Gudlavalleti as its Chief Operating Officer. Gudlavalleti will report to the CEO and MD, Krishna Kanumuri and drive the company’s growth as a new generation, sciencedriven organisation. Gudlavalleti joins Sai Life Sciences from Dr Reddy’s Laboratories where he was heading Global R&D and Portfolio Management for small molecule API & Formulations, encompassing portfolio & strategy, development, technology transfer, CRO/ CDMO partnerships, IP, regulatory affairs and clinical affairs. Over his seven-year tenure there, he spearheaded a multifold increase in the R&D pipeline, significantly globalised the R&D efforts with an impetus on fast-growing emerging markets and brought about a pioneering transformation in R&D through data and analytics.
Pune-based LaBelforte, an Indian startup promoted by a Pune-based doctor, announced the launch of its special purpose business entities – Covidrops and Covinhaler to facilitate the development of immune optimising nasal and inhaled drug products. “Company’s target is to primarily facilitate co-development of Nasal sprays and Pocket Inhaler that are safe and effective ancillaries for both COVID-19 prophylaxis and therapy,’ said Dr Gaurav Raj Chhabra, Founder, LaBelforte, India.
Epigeneres Biotech raises $ 6M in Series B Funding
Mumbai-based Epigeneres Biotech, the exclusive licensee in India of Singaporebased Tzar Labs, has raised $6 million in a Series B funding round. Lead investors in this round include Kotak Investment Advisors, Moez Daya (of Satya Capital), and LetsVenture Angel Fund. Other investors include Ashish Kacholia, East River Advisors, One Decacorn, Nandita Advisors, and Chockalingam Valliappa, to name a few. With initial approvals in place, the latest round of investment will go towards expanding its lab facilities, scaling operations, and development of an AI platform to launch the service in India – a world first. And, continue bringing the best diagnostic technology to patients and providers.
Medall to expand across South India
Medall announced its plans to expand across South India. Apart from penetrating deeper into Tamil Nadu into Tier II and III cities, Medall will also be expanding into other South Indian states, viz, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Kerala. Positioned as a franchisee model, the centres will be in multiple formats comprising of collection centres, mini wellness centres, full-service centres, lab collection centres and Medall Care Centres. Medall plans to open about 300 – 400 centres across South India during the year.
MaxiVision appoints VS Sudheer as CEO
Hyderabad-based MaxiVision Eye Hospitals group announced key leadership appointment to its strategic position for its pan India business. VS Sudheer has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer, for the whole MaxiVision Group. Sudheer has been working as Chief Operating Officer for the group for the last five years. The new appointment is his elevation of the position. Sudheer who has been with MaxiVision for the past five years has significantly contributed to the company’s annual revenues. He brings with him very strong expertise to team up and works with ophthalmologists of repute to deliver clinical excellence in all branches of the eye care segment.
Direct RT-PCR Kit
BioGenex Life Sciences launches Direct RT-PCR Kit
Hyderabad-based US-headquartered BioGenex Life Sciences has developed a RT-PCR kit for COVID-19 diagnosis, which detects COVID 19 caused by SARS COV 2 variants including Omicron plus other variants. The kit detects Omicron without RNA extraction in half the time than standard PCR DR. The National Institute of Biologicals(NIB), Noida, an ICMR designated lab, examined the performance of this kit and found that it performed with 100 per cent accuracy and 100 per cent sensitivity which means no false negatives or positives, which will significantly control the pandemic through accurate diagnosis. The kit detects the Omicron variant in half the time than the standard RT-PCR tests. The cost of the kit is Rs 150 plus taxes.
Dozee raises Rs 71 Cr
Dozee, a pioneer in Contactless Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) solutions, has raised Rs 71 crore in an additional funding round led by Doordash’s Gokul Rajaram. The round also saw participation from existing investors Prime Venture Partners, 3one4 Capital, YourNest and other angel investors. The current funding comes at a time when the company has seen a strong adoption of its Remote Patient Monitoring Solution for Hospitals, the Dozee Pro, which converts any bed into a Step-down ICU at a fraction of cost in both public and private settings. The Dozee Pro has been installed in over 6,000 beds in 300 hospitals covering 40 districts across India to monitor patients continuously and to help doctors & nurses enhance patient care and clinical outcomes.
Dhoot Transmission launches health and wellness venture, Burge Electronics
Dhoot Transmission Pvt Ltd (DTPL), a global automotive components manufacturer with a presence in six countries, has launched a venture christened Burge Electronics as it embarks on a diversification plan to establish its presence in the fast-growing health and wellness industry. Burge Electronics, which means guarantor in German, will roll out a series of world-class health and wellness products to deliver a truly healthy lifestyle. Banking on DTPL’s more than two decades of know-how in product development, manufacturing and distribution, Burge Electronics aims to disrupt the health and wellness industry with safe, affordable, advanced and innovative solutions.
Aster DM Healthcare to set up sixth hospital in Kerala with Rs 140 cr investment
Aster DM Healthcare is strengthening its footing in the country by signing a 30-years lease agreement to set up its sixth hospital in the state of Kerala, adding to the existing 14 hospitals in India. The hospital is being set up by Malabar Institute of Medical Sciences (MIMS), a material subsidiary of Aster DM Healthcare and will be situated in the Kasaragod district of Kerala, catering to patients from Malabar and Southern Karnataka. An initial investment of around Rs 140 crores have been earmarked for the new facility, which will include a 200-bed comprehensive tertiary care facility, with the option of expanding to a quaternary care facility in the future. The new Aster Hospital is expected to begin operations in 2024-25.
MyHealthcare announced the appointment of Sanjay Bapna as its Chief Commercial Officer. Bapna will be responsible for driving the business traction across all MyHealthcare platforms, including its AI offerings through institutional sales,
strategic partnerships and other high growth revenue initiatives. With 30 years of experience across healthcare and technology, Bapna brings in-depth industry expertise and learnings in building robust, scalable business solutions. A specialist in overall business strategy, he completed his engineering from NIT Kurukshetra. Previously, Bapna has held key positions in multinational organisations such as L&T, Hewlett Packard and Phillips where he has led large business units. He has worked with healthcare start-ups such as Doxper, leading their corporate and institutional sales and building a successful growth trajectory.
Sanjay Bapna
Johari Centre of Excellence
Johari Centre of Excellence opens at IIT Jodhpur Technology Park
Johari Digital Healthcare Ltd (JDHL) launched the Johari Centre of Excellence (CoE) at the Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur Technology Park. The collaboration is a step towards making India self-reliant in the manufacturing of medical devices. Prof Santanu Chaudhury, Director, IIT Jodhpur, Prof Sampat Raj Vadera, Deputy Director, IIT Jodhpur, Satyendra Johari, CEO & Founder and Nisha Johari, Co-Founders, Johari Digital Healthcare, and other dignitaries were present during the launch.
RaphaCure partners with Madhavbaug
Leading digital healthcare services provider, RaphaCure on has entered into a strategic partnership with Madhavbaug (Vaidya Sane Ayurved Laboratories). The strategic tie-up is a game-changing event for the cardiac care space wherein technology will be leveraged to reach out to patients even in the remotest regions of the country. RaphaCure and Madhavbaug will not only play to each other’s core strengths but will also tap their combined network for providing better patient care. Moreover, the partnership opens up new pathways for people to access ancient Ayurvedic Care which is India’s pride and heritage.RaphaCure is powered by Cognota Healthcare, which is a leading healthtech company with multiple cutting-edge digital solutions.
Bajaj Group partners with LV Prasad Eye Institute
LV Prasad Eye Institute, as part of its undertaking of developing various Institutes of Excellence that focus on major causes of blindness, is partnering with the Bajaj Group for an Institute of Excellence and a Global Resource Centre for Retinal Diseases. The MoU to formalise the partnership was signed between Shekhar Bajaj, CMD, Bajaj Electricals Limited (BEL) and Dr Prashant Garg, Executive Chair, LV Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI). Named as the Anant Bajaj Retina Institute in the loving memory of late Anant Bajaj, it will be an integral part of LVPEI. The Institute of Excellence aims to enhance access to highquality retina care to several million more people through direct services of the LVPEI network and the work of its alumni and partners, and through capacity building across India and other parts of the world.
AliveCor’s KardiaMobile to alert people experiencing irregular heart rhythm symptoms
AliveCor, the global leader in FDAcleared personal electrocardiogram (ECG) technology, announced that the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has issued Medical Technologies Guidance (MTG) recommending KardiaMobile as an option for detecting atrial fibrillation (AF) for people with suspected paroxysmal AF, who present with symptoms such as palpitations and are referred for ambulatory ECG monitoring by a clinician. KardiaMobile is the first personal ECG to be recommended by NICE for use within the National Health Service (NHS) in England and Wales.
IHH Healthcare India appoints Anurag Yadav as CEO
Anurag Yadav has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of IHH Healthcare India. Anurag joined IHH Healthcare in April 2017 as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of its India Operations Division, where he oversaw the financial activities
Anurag Yadav
of IHH’s network of hospitals in India (excluding Fortis). As the newly promoted CEO, he will provide leadership and strategic direction to IHH Healthcare India, ensuring that it continues to deepen trust with patients, employees, and other stakeholders, in line with IHH’s vision to be the world’s most trusted healthcare services network. Yadav held senior leadership roles in Fortis Healthcare and Manipal Health Enterprises. With over 25 years of experience in business leadership, financial management, strategic planning, mergers and acquisitions and post-merger integration, Anurag is well-positioned to take IHH India to its next level of success.
Metropolis Healthcare has launched the 3rd edition of MedEngage Scholarship programme and is now inviting applications from the final year MBBS and MD/DNB students. Metropolis Healthcare launched the MedEngage program in 2018 to nurture medical students and help them contribute to healthcare research in the country by financially rewarding the deserving candidates and providing them with practical knowledge through our world-class laboratory and panel of experts on board. Metropolis conducted the scholarship programme successfully for the consecutive 2 years and has awarded more than100 students with scholarships worth up to 50 lakhs. In this year 2022, it intends to reward 150 students from across India through this scholarship programme.
Alkem Labs launches technology for diabetic foot ulcer mgmt in India
Alkem Laboratories has announced to launch a unique patented technology for the treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcer (DFU) in India. The solution would be based on disruptive 4D Bioprinting technology, which would be used to treat deep, nonhealing chronic wounds and is expected to be launched in the Indian market in the latter half of 2022 post regulatory approval. The advanced technology for DFU management has a high scope of preventing amputations in diabetic patients. This technology will be available at affordable rates to Indian patients at a time when there is no definitive treatment for DFU in India.
Intuitive India introduces remote learning technology for surgeons
Intuitive India, the Indian arm of Intuitive, a global technology leader in minimally invasive care and the pioneer of roboticassisted surgery (RAS), has launched India’s first remote surgical case observation technology, ‘Intuitive Telepresence’ (ITP). The technology enables surgeons to learn from expert surgeons without the need for travel or time away from their busy practice. The ITP uses proprietary technology that enables real-time exchange of audio and video between the remote observer and the operating surgeon. Through this, observers can be virtually present in the operating room (OR) where a procedure with a da Vinci system is being performed. ITP technology is HIPPA (The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) compliant which provides a secure platform for remote learning on da Vinci Robotic platform.
The Johnson & Johnson Medical Devices Companies (JJMDC) will collaborate with Microsoft to further enable and expand JJMDC’s secure and compliant digital surgery ecosystem. The Microsoft Cloud will help JJMDC realise its vision of driving innovation that advances skills, improve workflow, and enhances surgical decision making for a better overall customer experience and improved patient and economic outcomes.
BSV opens R&D centre in Airoli, Maharashtra
Bharat Serums and Vaccines (BSV) to spur innovation and scientific research has opened a world-class R&D centre at Airoli, Maharashtra. The state-of-art centre was inaugurated by Rajesh Tope, Health Minister, Maharashtra. Also present at the event were Sanjiv Navangul, MD & CEO, BSV, Vishwanath Swarup, COO, India Business and Dr Jaby Jacob, Head, R&D. The R&D centre will endeavour to bring scientifically advanced biological, biotechnology products and novel drug delivery systems that deliver better patient outcomes in Women’s Health, Assisted Reproductive Technology and Critical Care & Emergency Medicines.
Dr (Col) Avnish Seth, VSM joins HCMCT Manipal Hospital, Dwarka
HCMCT Manipal Hospitals has announced the appointment of Dr (Col) Avnish Seth as the Head of Gastroenterology & Hepatology. He will also drive all organ and tissue donation initiatives at Manipal Hospitals. Dr Seth has over 25 years of expertise in gastroenterology and liver diseases including many clinical landmarks first in his field and was honoured with the Vishisht Seva Medal by the President of India in 2009. Dr Avnish Seth and his team will strengthen the gastroenterology and hepatology programme and also the organ retrieval and transplant to provide the best possible care for patients in Delhi NCR.
Team at Kauvery Hospital Chennai transplantation unit
Kauvery Hospital Chennai expands heart and lung transplantation unit
Kauvery Hospital Chennai, a unit of Kauvery Group of Hospitals, based out of Tamil Nadu, announced the expansion of their heart and lung transplantation unit by appointing Dr Kumud Kumar Dhital and Dr Srinivas Rajagopala. The team is headed by Dr Dhital, who is the Program Director of the Heart and Lung Transplantation unit. He is a cardiothoracic surgeon, specialised in heart and lung transplantation. The team also has Dr Rajagopala who is the Director of Transplant Pulmonology & Lung Failure Unit and a Senior Consultant in Interventional Pulmonology & Sleep Medicine.
Ophthalmic Research Biorepository in India opens at LV Prasad Eye Institute
The Hyderabad campus (Kallam Anji Reddy Campus) of LV Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI) in Hyderabad is now equipped with a state-of-the-art Ophthalmic Research Biorepository. LVPEI is the first institute in the country to have this facility. The facility has been set up with the generous support received from Prof Krothapalli Ravindranath, retired Dean, SV University, Tirupati. Prof Ravindranath is a long-term well-wisher and supporter of LVPEI. The Prof Krothapalli Ravindranath Ophthalmic Research Biorepository has been set up in the operational complex of the institute that is on par with international standards. The facility is well equipped with infrastructure required for cryopreservation (storage of ophthalmic tissues) as in -80°C, -20°C and 4°C freezers, liquid nitrogen for snap freezing and specially trained technical staff for handling the samples.
IIITH to develop screening tool to detect early oral cancer
In a collaboration with Grace Cancer Foundation and BioCon Foundation, the International Institute of Information Technology Hyderabad (IIITH) is developing a screening tool to detect abnormal oral lesions before they progress into advanced stages of cancer. This automated solution only requires a smart phone to help save lives. According to Grace Cancer Foundation’s CEO and Director, Dr Chinnababu Sunkavalli, the prognosis for oral cancer is usually poor since most patients are diagnosed in the advanced stages. Grace Cancer Foundation runs mobile camps, where it tries to conduct early cancer screening and detection, but the NGOs efforts are hindered by the inconsistent availability of skilled medical professionals, such as oncologists, who can perform exams and interpret x-ray findings on the spot.
Advances in Cancer Management: Immunotherapy
Dr Arun R Warrier, Consultant- Medical Oncology, Aster Medcity, Kochi Cancer develops when cells in our body develop the potential to grow uninhibited. Ageing, changes in lifestyle, exposure to toxins all interact in a complicated manner leading to this change. The body’s immune system has an important role in preventing the cells from gaining the ability to proliferate without control and invade other organs by spreading through the bloodstream, which are the hallmarks of cancer. As a result of this, patients with diseases like HIV cause immunosuppression to have a higher number of cancers. This weakening of the immune system in elderly persons without any risk factors increases their risk of developing cancers.
Historically, Galen a renowned Greek physician, had documented the relationship between immune response and cancer. William Bradley Coley
who is known today as the Father of Immunotherapy described cancerous growths disappearing after skin infections. Such spontaneous remissions are extremely rare, occurring in 1 out of 60,000- 100,000 cases. Over the last 100 years, contributions from scientists all over the world were instrumental to understand the fascinating interplay between immune regulation and cancer. In 2018, the Nobel Prize was awarded to James Allison and Tasuku Honjo for their meticulous work on checkpoint molecules as potential therapeutic targets.
Antibody-based therapies were the initial ones to be used for the treatment of cancer. Antibodies are made by the body to mark out cancer cells. In 1997, Rituximab, which targets the CD 20 antibody on lymphoma cells, became the first monoclonal antibody to be approved. In the last 25 years, lakhs of patients across the world were saved using Rituximab either alone or in combination with chemotherapy in various types of lymphomas. Trastuzumab, another monoclonal antibody against Her-2-receptor expressed in 25 per cent of breast cancers has also improved cancer outcomes for a significant number of patients.
Cancer cells can protect themselves from the immune system by stimulating checkpoints. This helps them to hide from the protective cells of the body. Checkpoint inhibitors block these points, thus restoring the capacity of the body to fight against cancer. In 2011, Ipilimumab was the first such drug to be approved for the treatment of melanoma. In a short span of time, several other inhibitors of the PD-1 receptor or its ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, were approved worldwide. Nivolumab, pembrolizumab, atezolizumab, durvalumab, and avelumab all showed significant improvement in outcomes of several cancers. Elegant clinical trials were designed to monitor the efficacy in multiple cancers and based on them, they are approved for use in specific cancers. Notable among them are lung cancer, melanoma, bladder cancer and colon cancer.
There is a scientific rationale for the use of these drugs, and they cannot be given for all cancers. In lung cancer, we can measure the PDL1 receptor expression on the lung cancer specimen after doing a biopsy. If the level of expression is more than 50 per cent, Pembrolizumab as a single drug is more effective than even chemotherapy. Meanwhile, for lung cancers that lose response to chemotherapy, these drugs can be used irrespective of PD L1 expression. A better understanding of such predictive markers is needed to ensure that those who respond the best are offered immunotherapy as these drugs are expensive. A proportion of patients on these drugs can also develop side effects, so close medical monitoring is needed. A review of patient records has shown that almost 20- 30 per cent of advanced cancer patients who were treated with these drugs survived, compared to less than 5 per cent of historical controls. Immunosuppressive agents, cytokines, oncolytic viruses, cancer vaccines are all being developed to engineer the immune system to fight against cancer. CAR T cell therapy seems to be the one that may be used more frequently in near future. CAR T cell therapy involves the isolation of patient's T cells which are tumour-specific, modification and multiplication of those cells in the laboratory and then re-injection back to the patient circulation. Dramatic responses in chemotherapy failed patients have resulted in the approval of CAR T cell therapy in relapsed leukaemias and lymphomas.
In the future, immunotherapy drugs may be used more frequently in adjuvant settings to prevent relapse of the disease after curative treatment. Identifying the subset of patients who would benefit the most based on biomarker testing would be the most challenging aspect. Rather than replacing chemotherapy, they will have a role along with chemo and other targeted agents in the continuum of care for cancer patients.
New Age Cancer Screening and Diagnosis
Cancer has become a major concern in today’s time. It is imperative for us to screen individuals in order to provide a comprehensive and holistic view of health. Dr Tausif Ahmed Thangalvadi, Medical Director, NURA, talks about how NURA can bring in a revolution in cancer care
Dr Tausif Ahmed Thangalvadi, Medical Director, NURA Recently NURA has opened its firstever diagnostic centre in Bengaluru. Tell us more about the new centre and which all tests will be conducted at the centre?
NURA is a premium AI-based Health screening centre and one of its kind in India. It is a collaboration between Fujifilm Healthcare Global & DKH group, bringing the best of AI-enabled imaging technology to improve one’s health screening experience. Our screening service is designed to suit ones busy life. We want to secure the lives of people while providing accessible and high-quality healthcare.
Our technology, process along AI deliver quick and accurate results, while always keeping one’s safety in mind. Our machines are minimally invasive and ergonomically designed to ensure one’s comfort.
How NURA is different?
• Highest possible precision with AI algorithms and doctor's interpretations
• Image-based technologies with bestin-class equipment major organs and ailments like heart, lungs, kidney, bones, liver, cancer, COPD and other lifestyle diseases.
• Gender-specific health screening packages
• No prior preparation or fasting is required, walk-in walk out in just 120 minutes
We screen the following diseases:
• For Men
We screen for blood pressure, BMI, lung cancer, coronary heart disease, COPD, visceral fat analysis, osteoporosis/ bone mineral density, sarcopenia, full body composition, colon cancer, oral cancer, prostate cancer, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, kidney and liver health, gout, anaemia and general well-being.
• For Women
We screen for blood pressure, BMI, lung cancer, coronary heart disease, COPD, visceral fat analysis, osteoporosis/ bone mineral density, sarcopenia, full body composition, breast cancer, cervical cancer, colon cancer, oral cancer, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, kidney and liver health, gout, anaemia and general well-being.
Which new technologies are being currently used at the centre?
Fujifilm Healthcare’s vast data set of radiology images and decades of experience in the field has helped in developing advanced AI technologies that empower radiologists and doctors. Our AI allows them to read scans more efficiently and accurately, helping them make quick and intelligent decisions.
AI technology makes the screening process safer by allowing us to use ultra-low doses of radiation. Sharper images have previously only been possible with larger doses of radiation.
Our AI technology processes the lowdose scan and compares them to similar scans in Fujifilm’s vast library of imaging data. This enables us to sharpen the low-dose image and identify problems that would be missed by the naked eye.
Cancer is a major area of focus at your centre. What are the new offerings you would like to provide in cancer care?
Our objective is to screen an individual for comprehensive health. Cancer has become a major concern in today’s time. It is imperative for us to screen individuals in order to provide a comprehensive and holistic view of health.
For lung cancer: At NURA, lung cancer screening is done through Ultra low dose CT scan equipment coupled with our AI technology. Through this, we are able to sharpen the quality of the ultralow dose scan to assist the doctor in early detection.
For breast cancer: NURA digital mammography uses a flexible compression paddle which allows the machine to gently fit the natural curve of the breast, allowing the pressure to be dispersed evenly and lowering your discomfort. It does Accurate screening with 3D Imaging in a few minutes.
For cervical cancer: A colposcope is used for taking images of the cervix area. The device has inbuilt AI software which gives an indication about any abnormalities.
For oral cancer: A handheld device is used to take images of the Oral cavity by our dentist. Images are processed in our AI software to detect cancerous cells.
Do you plan to provide new centres across the country?
Yes, we are planning to open up more centres in other cities in the next one to two years.
How cost-effective are these tests?
Our packages are quite cost-effective. If the same set of tests and scans are done outside NURA, it might cost anywhere between Rs 40000-50000. Whereas, at NURA, we offer it as a single package costing Rs 15,000.
What will be your growth plans for the next five years? Our mission is to provide affordable, accessible and accurate health screening services globally through NURA. In the coming five years, we would focus more on expanding our presence in prominent cities of India and a few other countries.
Making a Difference in Cancer Care
Closing the gap in cancer care one step at a time
Team IMT
Prof. Anil d’Cruz, President, Union for International Cancer Control, Director of Oncology, Apollo Hospitals, India. Cancer is a well-known term in India. Understandably as nearly 7-8 million people lose their battle with the disease in India every year. Today we all know at least one person who is suffering from cancer or who is lost to cancer.
The cancer care landscape in India has been very promising. A number of public sector institutions like the Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai and Adyar Cancer Institute, Chennai have been the leaders in not only providing latest cancer therapies but also trained the best of doctors and nurses who went on to start premier institutes in different parts of the country.
The Indian government has focused on cancer prevention and control through various programs, and instituted centers of excellence along with regional cancer centers. However, a number of socioeconomic factors along with stigma and discrimination prevent many people from accessing these services and thus adding to the growing mortality due to cancer. The 2022-2024 World Cancer Day campaign is designed to raise awareness about this ‘cancer care gap’ and ask for greater equity.
This year the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) launched a new three-year campaign for World Cancer Day (Feb-4) to bring together individuals, organisations and governments around the world in an effort to create awareness and help close the gap in cancer care.
“By 2030, it is estimated that 75% of all premature deaths due to cancer will occur in low- and middle-income countries. Importantly, this care gap is not only between high- and lowresource settings. Disparities exist within most countries among different populations due to discrimination or assumptions that encompass age, cultural contexts, gender norms, sexual orientation, ethnicity, income, education
Dr Miriam Mutebi, Member of the Board, Union for International Cancer Control and Consultant Breast Surgical Oncologist, Clinical epidemiologist and health systems researcher, Aga Khan University Hospital, Kenya. levels and lifestyle issues. These factors potentially reduce a person’s chance of surviving cancer – and they can and must be addressed,” said Prof. Anil d’Cruz, President of the Union for International Cancer Control, Director of Oncology at Apollo Hospitals, India.
According to UICC, the first year of the campaign will focus on acknowledging and addressing the social determinants of health that constitute barriers to equitable care.
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant disruptions to cancer services and exacerbated existing health inequities, with a high risk of seeing an increase in cancers diagnosed at a later stage and therefore cancer-related deaths. “The COVID-19 pandemic has deepened health inequities and created an even greater need for action to mitigate the adverse impact on cancer incidence and survival. Understanding and addressing the social determinants of health and their impact on cancer can considerably improve outcomes for at-risk populations, particularly for cancers that can be more easily detected and treated such as cervical, breast, colorectal and childhood cancers,” says Dr Miriam Mutebi, Member of the Board, Union for International Cancer Control and Consultant Breast Surgical Oncologist, Clinical epidemiologist and health systems researcher, Aga Khan University Hospital, Kenya.
The aim of the campaign is to help build efficient and widely accessible cancer services that will save countless individuals from a premature and often painful death.
“As individuals, as communities, we can and must come together and break down barriers. We have achieved a lot in the last decade in cancer care and control around the world but not addressing inequities in society is slowing our progress. Closing the care gap is about fairness, dignity and fundamental rights to allow everyone to lead longer lives in better health,” Dr Cary Adams, CEO of the Union for International Cancer Control added.
Greater equity in health care will also strengthen families and communities, benefit the economy with greater workforce participation and offer net savings to health budgets.
Roots and Routes of Cancer
Dr Vikas S Kavishwar, Consultant in Histopathology, GRL, Metropolis Healthcare “It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities" said Dumbledore (JK Rowling)
Whenever I feel down and defeated, this quote gives me new energy. Though the world of Harry Potter is magical, it has its roots in the moral principles of our world and it stands on the route of Harry’s faith, irrespective of his abilities. Every day, when I look at cells under the microscope, I wonder if I had magical powers to read their mind – where cancer has its roots – before it takes a route towards a full-blown disease. Every cell has the potential to turn into cancer but every mechanism is there in place to prevent that occurrence. The natural choice of a cell must be not to become cancerous so is it a limitation to fight abilities of cell or is it a wrong choice in the mind of cell…which transforms it into a cancer cell? – A million-dollar question with no satisfactory answer. 5.7 million people have died. Cancer deaths per year are much more (About 10 million) and even higher than HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis combined. More than one-third of cancer cases can be prevented. Another third can be cured with proper routes of diagnosis and management. Unfortunately, the focus on COVID-19 management had roots of delay in the treatment of other diseases, including cancer.
The theme for 2022-2024 is “Close the Care Gap”. Today 65 per cent of cancer deaths are happening in the least developed parts of the world. Equitable access to cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care can save lives and improve quality of life. PPPs could be one practical route to achieve this goal.
Today public sector government hospitals are flooded with patients but need to organise their resources. Corporate hospitals are well equipped and can deliver the best possible healthcare, however, the expenses are beyond the reach of many patients. The
cost involved gets augmented further when the tests get repeated in another hospital. We need to tackle the roots of all these issues.
In India, out of about 1.1 million new cases reported every year, two-thirds are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Cancers of the oral cavity, lung and breast are mainly responsible for morbidity and mortality.
Traditionally, cancer management has been the teamwork of oncosurgeon, oncophysician offering chemotherapy and radiation medicine expert for radiotherapy. With ongoing research, new routes of targeted and customized therapies are becoming available. Techniques like IHC, Flow cytometry, cytogenetics, tumour marker studies are an integral part of the diagnosis. Molecular testing for cancers in the brain, lung, breast and colon has become a part of cancer management protocols. Thus, the route of the cancer diagnosis also has become a team-work of histo pathologists, haematopathologists, micro biologist, genetic experts and dedicated technicians. The team needs to get trained and to adapt as per the need.
Digital Pathology was a classic example in COVID-19 pandemic, histopathologists who could not visit the laboratory had to learn to report on the digitized slide. Technology and expertise do not come free, but it is the need for time. Hence, the route of financial planning in a costeffective manner, with the involvement of the health insurance industry, is an important dimension in cancer management.
COVID-19 has taught us to unite the strengths of roots and routes of the private and public sector, upgrade ourselves to face challenges, improve the delivery of the healthcare system and be compassionate with the sufferer. Let us carry on the same route for cancer patients… to turn on the light in the darkest of cancer times.
As J.K.Rowling’s Dumbledore has already said… "Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light"
Evolution of Oncology Care During the Pandemic
Satyaki Banerjee, CEO, Medical Imaging, Trivitron Healthcare The COVID-19 pandemic has forced the healthcare industry and professionals to concentrate their strength and prowess in managing the vast outbreak. It was perhaps, the need of the hour. Thanks to the dedication of healthcare workers and professionals, and to the industry at large, the world developed multiple vaccines and advanced treatment protocols. However, while India is now comparatively better prepared to manage the pandemic wave, critical medical areas such as oncology had taken a hit initially. It is known that immune-compromised people are at a much higher risk of COVID-19 infection, and cancer patients usually fall into such category.
Owing to the pandemic, the hospital visits for chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery for cancer were curtailed exponentially. Even the cancer screening facilities were toned down in order to focus the strength on the management of COVID-19. In fact, during the first lockdown, as much as 69 per cent of healthcare institutions halted the screening. This consequently led to a low number of cancer patient registrations, a reduction of almost 56 per cent all over the country. This observation is critical as India sees an annual diagnosis of over 1.3 million cancer patients and an annual death of .85 million patients. In fact, cancer deaths contribute 8 per cent of the total number of adults’ death in the country. In such a scenario, any halt in the screening and treatment process will
prove to be devastating. However, with the pandemic getting into the first level of control; Hospitals were segregated as COVID and non-COVID hospitals. This allowed safe access for cancer patients to continue their treatment. At the same time, in large hospitals, COVID and nonCOVID areas were strictly demarcated in order to reduce contamination and maintain a COVID-free environment for cancer screening and treatment.
In the sector of oncological diagnosis, there have been significant improvements. While the oncology sector endured a shot in the light of the pandemic, it has not only bounced back but is also witnessing exponential growth and attention. A key aspect of cancer diagnosis is Next-GenerationSequencing or NGS which provides vast insight into the genetic materials (DNA & RNA), helping healthcare experts narrow down the origin as well as the level of cancer in the patients. The NGS market in India has been forecasted to grow at 19.6 per cent CAGR, touching $71 Million by 2028. A driving factor for the growth of NGS was the disruption of the supply chain during lockdown which prevented firms from importing (or exporting) crucial raw material needed for testing. This forced companies to invest in NGS which is far more userfriendly and does not require excess reliance on imported raw materials.
Another important aspect when it comes to oncology care and treatment is advances made in Medical Imaging. There are multiple imaging modalities available to clinicians to diagnose, stage, and treat human cancer: Computed Tomography (CT Scan), Ultrasound (US), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Single-photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT), Positron Emission Tomography (PET), and optical imaging. Of these, CT, MRI, SPECT, and PET are capable of three-dimensional (3-D) detection of cancer anywhere in the human body.
Major cancerous tumours are likely to be treated if they are diagnosed early. This is perhaps one of the strongest driving forces behind the expansion of the Medical Imaging segment. Mammography plays a particularly important role when it comes to breast cancer diagnosis and imaging. Detected early the chances of complete cure is very high with a very good quality of life for the patient. Advanced digital mammography systems, especially those with very sophisticated AIenabled image processing systems are particularly effective in detecting very very early stage breast cancers.
The COVID-19 spurred the development of at-home self-health care, even in case of severe diseases. This was also adopted by the oncology sector. There has been an increased at-home treatment and extension of care services for cancer patients, especially the ones for whom going to the hospital was deemed unsafe, and those who were at late-stage cancer. This has not only allowed firms and companies to expand their home-care services but has also helped patients to receive care from the comfort of their home, with their family members always around them. The market for home care is also expected to grow at a significant rate in the upcoming years.
Government initiatives have contributed to enhancing the current infrastructure to guarantee the delivery of tailored healthcare even in tier ii/iii cities. Our healthcare system has been given the opportunity to be re-evaluated, and reformed in light of the pandemic. India's future lies in putting its focus on excellence, merging cutting-edge treatments with a team of doctors that provide patient-centric care.
