Cancer has become a significant public health concern in India, with a rising prevalence among women. Various factors such as socio-demographics, lifestyle choices, and limited access to healthcare contribute to this growing burden. Major cancers affecting women include breast, cervical, ovarian, and uterine cancers, with increasing incidence and mortality rates. Despite advances in medical technology, challenges in cancer care persist. Awareness about prevention and early detection remains low, particularly in rural areas, leading to delayed diagnoses. In addition, treatment adherence continues to be a major barrier to improving survival outcomes. Women’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding cancer are crucial in shaping these trends. This article explores the factors influencing cancer prevalence in Indian women, highlighting the associated risk factors, importance of improving awareness, early detection, and treatment adherence to enhance cancer control strategies and overall outcomes.

Trends in cancer prevalence in Indian women:

• Breast Cancer: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Indian women, showing a steadily increasing incidence, particularly in urban areas. It has overtaken cervical cancer as the leading cause of cancer in women in the past two decades. A 2020 study from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) highlighted a 1.3% annual increase in breast cancer prevalence among women, with urban areas showing higher rates due to lifestyle factors.

• Cervical Cancer: While cervical cancer has traditionally been the most prevalent form of cancer in rural India, its incidence has been gradually declining in urban regions, partly due to increased awareness and the introduction of the HPV vaccination. However, rural areas still report high rates, attributed to lack of screening and preventive measures.

• Ovarian and Uterine Cancer: The prevalence of ovarian and uterine cancers is also rising, with risk factors such as age, hormonal treatments, and genetic predisposition contributing to this increase. Women in urban areas, particularly those with higher socioeconomic status, are more likely to develop these cancers due to lifestyle factors.

Factors associated with cancer prevalence in women

The prevalence of cancer among Indian women is influenced by a combination of socio- demographic, lifestyle, reproductive, environmental, and cultural factors (depicted in Fig.1). To address the rising burden of cancer, it is crucial to identify these factors and address them through comprehensive strategies that can help improve early detection, treatment, and outcomes for women with cancer in India.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) regarding cancer in women

Knowledge: Studies reveal a significant gap in knowledge about cancer risk factors, early warning signs, and preventive measures, particularly in rural areas. While urban women generally have better access to health information, rural women remain largely uninformed about essential screening methods like mammograms, Pap smears, and HPV vaccinations. Despite efforts by public health campaigns and NGOs to raise awareness, understanding of cancer risk factors and the importance of early detection remains limited.

Attitudes: Cancer is often surrounded by fear and stigma, especially in rural areas, where many women view it as a fatal disease. This leads to a preference for traditional or alternative treatments over conventional medical care. In conservative communities, there is also a reluctance to discuss cancer openly with family members. Many women underestimate their personal risk of developing cancer, primarily due to a lack of education or the belief that it is a distant possibility. While attitudes towards seeking medical help are improving, challenges remain in underserved regions, where healthcare access and trust in medical professionals are still limited.

Practices: Regular screening practices, such as breast self-examinations, Pap smears, and mammography, are not widely adopted among women in India. A secondary analysis of National Family Health Survey in India (2019-21) data among Indian women aged 30 to 49 found that only 2.0% had ever undergone cervical cancer screening, with urban women screening at 2.4% compared to 1.8% in rural areas. The uptake of HPV vaccination remains low due to lack of awareness, high costs, and misconceptions. Many women delay seeking medical help until symptoms become severe, often resulting in late-stage diagnoses. Socioeconomic factors and gender-based healthcare prioritization further contribute to these delays. Additionally, urbanization has led to lifestyle changes, such as increased consumption of processed foods and sedentary habits, which are known cancer risk factors.

To address the gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding cancer among Indian women, efforts must focus on community-based education, reducing stigma, improving access to affordable screening services, and promoting early detection. Integrating these initiatives into primary healthcare systems can lead to better outcomes and more timely interventions.

Strategies to enhance cancer treatment and adherence

Patient Education and Counseling: Healthcare providers increasingly focus on educating patients about the importance of completing cancer treatment. This includes addressing misconceptions, explaining side effects, and emphasizing the benefits of adherence to therapy. Counseling services also help manage the emotional and psychological burden of cancer treatment.

Financial Support Programs: Several government and non-government initiatives are working to reduce the financial burden on cancer patients. These programs include subsidies, free or low-cost treatments, and insurance schemes to help alleviate the costs associated with cancer care, thereby improving adherence.

Use of Technology: Telemedicine and mobile health apps are being utilized to remind patients about appointments, medication schedules, and follow-up visits. These tools can help increase adherence by providing regular reminders and offering emotional support through virtual counseling.

Community and Peer Support: Peer support groups and cancer survivor networks play a significant role in improving treatment adherence. These groups offer emotional support, share experiences, and encourage women to remain committed to their treatment regimen.

Simplification of Treatment Regimens: Efforts to simplify cancer treatment regimens, such as reducing the frequency of visits or introducing oral therapies, are helping to improve adherence. Convenience is a critical factor in ensuring that women remain consistent with their treatment cycles.

Integrated Care Models: Healthcare systems are increasingly adopting integrated care models where multidisciplinary teams, including oncologists, nurses, counselors, and social workers, work together to provide holistic care to cancer patients. These teams address both the medical and psychosocial aspects of cancer treatment, promoting better adherence.

In conclusion, cancer among women in India is an escalating public health challenge, particularly with the rising incidence of breast, cervical, and ovarian cancers. The increasing prevalence, especially in rural areas, is driven by a complex interplay of socio-economic, cultural, and lifestyle factors. Women’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding cancer significantly influence early detection and treatment adherence. To improve outcomes, a holistic approach is essential, encompassing patient education, financial assistance, and psychosocial support. Public health campaigns must focus on reducing misconceptions, promoting early detection, and encouraging regular screenings. Additionally, improving access to affordable healthcare and addressing the stigma surrounding cancer treatment can enhance adherence and outcomes. Strategies should prioritize raising awareness, ensuring equitable access to care, and providing comprehensive support to overcome barriers, particularly for women in rural communities.

Authors biography

Dr Keshavi Killi is a Duty Medical Officer(DMO), Kamineni Cancer Centre, Kamineni Hospitals, Hyderabad, India., Dr Tejeet Reddy Mettu is a   Casualty Medical Officer(CMO), Narayana Medical College and Hospital, Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, India.

The post The Cancer Challenge in Indian Women: Insights into Trends and Strategies for Improved Treatment Adherence appeared first on InnoHEALTH magazine.

Global health crises are often considered ‘black swan’ events that drastically reshape our environments and necessitate that communities adapt to the looming threat of future infectious diseases. The challenges encountered during such times have sparked vital conversations around housing policies, including the need for affordable, resilient homes and emergency accommodations to mitigate potential displacement.

Modern architectural planning now calls for features that support quarantine and social distancing, along with adaptable semi-open areas suited for prolonged lockdowns. Key design elements include provisions for remote working spaces, water and air quality control, outdoor interaction zones, vertical space optimization in compact homes, kitchen and food safety, energy efficiency, modular versus fixed layouts, self-sanitizing materials, acoustic control, reliable global connectivity, isolated maintenance access, and private yet socially integrated residential designs. These requirements signal a transformation beyond conventional smart home technologies.

Recent studies indicate a paradigm shift in the conceptualization of pandemic-resilient housing—either through designs adaptable to evolving needs or through preconfigured layouts suitable for predicted scenarios. One highlighted necessity is the incorporation of flexible workspaces to support telecommuting.

Further investigations aligned with sustainable development goals have emphasized several critical design principles:

(a) strategic orientation for optimal natural light exposure through open blinds and windows,

(b) intelligent systems to regulate environmental quality, comfort, and user experience,

(c) integration of green spaces and exercise areas to enhance physical and mental well-being, and

(d) comprehensive waste management systems that protect public health and the environment.

The rapid spread of pathogens, particularly airborne ones, highlights the need for architectural innovations that reduce transmission risks. This includes the integration of designated contaminant management areas equipped with advanced sanitation technologies, dedicated self-isolation rooms, access to green or open-air spaces, and interior zones designed to minimize exposure and transmission risks.

The present study is an attempt to integrate these study designs with new pandemic resilient  technologies for an effective and reliable outcome for future habitats. The study focuses on  Contaminant Management Space, Self Isolation Space & Technologies for residences enabling  it for dangerous threats of future.  

Standard Layout : Dual Living Room Concept  

The studies revealed that either replaceable wall or permanent structures with variable air flow  was found to be essential to design template layout for future habitats. Accordingly, an  apartment template layout is designed with two adult bed rooms (B & D4) and one children’s  room [D3] (Figure1). The whole layout is divided into five section i.e. [A] Contaminant  Management Space; [B] Self –Isolation Space; [C] + [D] = Internal Safe Space; [E] Exterior Space [such as external space next to main entrance (E1 & E7) as well as balcony/ chimney/  children’s play area/ laundry dryer (E2-E6)]. The internal safe space shall have dual living room  concept as being practiced earlier in the previous century. It includes “Baithak” or semi-public space  [C] for visitors and private area [D]. The internal private area has living room along with kitchen  [D2], dining [D1], main bathroom & common laundry space [D5], master bed room [D4],  children’s bed room [D3] and direct access to another bed room [B] that is transformable to self  isolation space at the time of need. Both rooms are attached in continuity with separation which  can be completely separated if required and/or merged with the collapsible  wall concept. The semi-public space or first living room [C] can be directly accessed from the contaminant management space corridor without entering into internal space. In a normal life  routine, this area provides racks for footwear, hanging of external coats etc. The dual living  room concept is an old tradition with direct significance of preventing spread of infections.  

Figure 1: Template Layout: A1 + A2 : Contaminant Management Space; B: Self-Isolation Space; C: Baithak / Living Room-I or  Semi-Contaminant Space or Public Meeting/ Party Place; D: Internal Safe Space – D1: Dinner cum- Living Space; D2: Open  Kitchen; D3: Bed Room (or Children Room); D4: Master Bed Room; D5: Master 4 Pc Bathroom with Laundry & Drying Space  with dual gate – 01 from Master Bed Room while other from D1 side; E: External Spaces for Fresh Air Infusion: E1: External  Space attached to Self-Isolation Space; E2: Balcony with gardening for fresh air infusion; E3: Drying Space for Laundry, open  gardening space and sitting space balcony for master bedroom; E4: Covered Balcony with external space for playing of  children or Elder’s sitting space or Exercise Zone; E5 : Chimney connected to balcony space for exhaust and removal of  kitchen air, gas pipeline connection; E6: Balcony designed with space for parties extended area E7: External Space with  Baithak receiving exhaust air; 3 Pc: 3 Pc Bathroom attached to bedrooms and 2 Pc: 2 Pc bathroom attached to baithak or living  room-1.

Contaminant Management Space (CMS) 

CMS space is sandwiched between external and internal environments. It is a permeable zone or buffer area with multiple requirements however limited  to UV-C radiation alone as a sterilization system with its own restrictions highlighted in his study.  Based on design-technology integration model, an analysis revealed that such confined space require : 

(a) clothing management; (b) hand/ body hygiene; (c) waste collection bins; (d) dual  door system; (e) collection unit for delivered items; (f) footwear management system; (g) self  sanitization ability; (h) fruits and vegetables cleaning/ sanitization (as applicable) and other  dynamic requirement(s) as per nature of pathogens. The design layout (figure 1) illustrates two  sections of this corridor i.e. A1 & A 2 Section. The initial section (A1) from the main entrance is  designed with various components (Table-1) and has direct access to Self Isolation Space [B] and  First Living Room or Semi-Public Space [C] ensuring fast evacuation of elders/ children for  health care and; “Baithak” concept. A2 is the glass door section just prior to entrance into Internal  Safe Space ensuring cleanliness and visualization. The pictorial depiction comprises multiple technological integrations (Table-1).  

Table 1: Components of Contaminant Management Space (CMS) & its depiction in design

Figure 2: Pictorial Depiction of Contaminant Management Space (CMS) from Internal Entrance of Apartment directly into Internal Safe Space enabled features : (1) Glass Doors with viscoelastic gel + anti-microbial coat tubing; (2) Poorn Swachh – Disinfection Unit – One in Nos; (3) Air Sanitization Unit: Vayu Swachh+ – optional : Stand alone or Wall Hanging Splint; (4) Shower Area with standing unit and small laundry having collapsible wall modifiable as per requirement; (5) Tri- Set Unit with (a) Water Softener; (b) Samgrah Swachh and; Tri-Netra Hand Sanitization Unit; (6) Waste Bin; (7) Surface protected against disinfection & water proof; (8) Marble Flooring or Wooden Flooring Space; (9) Tri-Netra Multi-Purpose Sanitization Unit; (10) Shoe and other items (with hard surfaces) with inbuilt UV sterilization.

Self-Isolation Space

The concept of self isolation space providing pattern & isolation of  air flow and its usage based on recent pandemics as illustrated in figure 3 with respect to design  layout (figure 1). The exterior unit provides fresh air infusion into their respective rooms or  spaces, however the isolation space has inward flow of air from all directions and then exhaust out  to the exterior of the apartment via contaminant management space or directly. Another air flow is hot  air during cooking that escapes out via the chimney through the attached balcony. The complete  apartment is equipped with Vayuswachh+ technology ensuring sanitization of air ensuring no  spread of infections or filters out any unexpected gases.   

Figure 3: Template Layout: Air Flow : Green Directions illustrate design of air flow from [I] C: Semi Contaminant Space towards A1: Contaminant Management Space or E7: Exterior phase; [II] D: Internal Safe Space towards B: Self Isolation Space and/ or A2/A1: Contaminant Management Space; [III] Kitchen Air Flow while cooking or otherwise towards E5 exterior space. 

The numerous technologies surfaced time-to-time accordingly, following attributes can be  assigned to this part of habitat: (a) With their attached bathroom; (b) large enough to  accommodate > 1 or 02 personnel; (c) separate air conditioning with external duct in outside  environment; (d) switch off button if whole building has HVAC controlled system; (e) Moderate  size laundry & drier; (f) Telecommuting system; (g) Non-carpet wooden  or marble flooring as applicable; (h) Microwave & Heating Station; (i) Air flow separated from  main residence such that humidity and directional air flow towards outside; (j) Open access  space isolated from main residence; (k) glass separation with living room & (l) direct emergency  entrance to contaminant space etc. Many other requirement(s) specific to pandemic are  applicable. The components or technologies that can be integrated into such space are given in Table 2.  

Table 2: Self Isolation Space 

The telemedicine plays a significant role to support the patients in self isolation space as an  analysis of telehealth care is an important adjuvant to standard health care delivery. Post-pandemics many Start ups initiated such services however, an integration into  standard information exchange, authentication of services offered, monitoring and quality  assurance is needed under a comprehensive framework with direct intervention of government. 

Technology Enabled Residences 

The design and technologies integration is a key factor towards residential resilience against  future pandemics. It includes adoption of new enhanced sanitization practices as part of new /  adapted culture; in-built technologies with least/ no recurring supplies and immediate impact on  residences with elders. Table 3 provides a glimpse of technologies, their suggested site of  deployment and implication. The list of products/ their adaptations is part of Ultraswachh  technological initiatives of DRDO. Figure 4 illustrates various suggested sites for  multiple technologies on design layout.  

Table 3: New Pandemic Resilient Technologies 

Figure 4: Technological Integration Layout 

Challenges Ahead 

The technology enabled residence model is effective for urban town houses, apartments, with  02/03 and above bed rooms with a minimum of 03 bathrooms. However, these expensive suits  are fulfilling a highly urbanized society. The main challenge is to develop 01 bed room apartments  of nuclear families (with maximum of 02 adults/ 02 children) into adjusted models with  technological utilization to its maximum. Another challenge is to develop the building ecosystem,  town house management ecosystems and independent households. The transition will be slow  though if it is integrated with solar energy models, On-Site waste management models, water  circulation & reuse model; community based vertical farms, balcony green houses, urban  farming with natural air purification concepts and many others that will surface in due course of  time. It is an initiation of a new era for future habitats and we should expect technological marvels  in coming decades ahead.

Authors Biography

Raman Chawla,Sudeep R. Nayak, Vinod Kaushik are working in Division of CBRN Defence,Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences, Delhi

The post Pandemic Resilient Smart Homes: A Next Step for Future appeared first on InnoHEALTH magazine.

What Is Mental Health?

In modern history for so long, health was primarily seen as the absence of illness, and mental health was viewed in the same light: if you didn’t show symptoms of mental illness, you were considered mentally well. But as psychology and medicine have progressed, it’s become clear that mental health is much more nuanced than simply not having a diagnosis.

Today, mental health is understood as a state of emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It influences how we think, feel, and act, and it impacts how we cope with stress, connect with others, and make choices. Mental health is about thriving—not just avoiding illness—and it’s essential for living a balanced and meaningful life.

Factors That Affect Your Mental Health

Genetics
Genetics play a major role in shaping mental health. For instance, your natural tendency toward happiness is heavily influenced by your genetic makeup. Similarly, having a close relative with a mental health condition can increase your risk of facing similar struggles. That said, genetics aren’t destiny. Environmental influences and personal choices can greatly buffer or manage the effects of genetic predispositions. For example, while anxiety may run in families, developing healthy coping strategies and pursuing therapy can significantly lessen its impact.

Life Experiences and Trauma
Trauma—whether it’s from childhood or adulthood—can have a profound impact on mental health. Traumatic events like losing a loved one, experiencing abuse, or enduring significant life stress can leave lasting emotional scars. While trauma can be difficult, it doesn’t necessarily have to define your mental health long-term. Many people, over time, find ways to heal and even grow stronger from their trauma, though some might need professional help to process their experiences.

How to Improve Your Mental Health

Managing mental health is an ongoing process, and it’s crucial to develop healthy practices that help you cope with life’s challenges. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, below are some guidelines to improve your mental health and well-being.

1. Create Deeper Social Connections
   Having strong social connections is one of the best predictors of good mental health. Instead of seeking external validation through material gains, focus on building meaningful relationships. Share your thoughts and feelings with people you trust, and seek those who will support you when things get tough. Relationships that offer emotional safety and vulnerability are incredibly valuable for mental well-being.

1. Develop Healthy Lifestyle Habits
   Your body and mind are deeply interconnected. Taking care of your physical health can greatly enhance your mental health. Here’s how to start:
   • Sleep: Sleep is crucial for mental health. Consistent lack of sleep contributes to irritability, stress, and mental health disorders. The target should be 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Create a calming pre-sleep routine and avoid screen time or stimulating activities before bed.
   • Exercise: Regular physical activity releases endorphins, helping to improve mood and reduce stress. You don’t have to hit the gym for hours—simple activities like walking, jogging, or yoga can have a big impact.
   • Nutrition: A healthy diet supports your brain’s functioning. Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains. Avoid excessive sugar and processed foods, which can worsen mood swings and fatigue.
2. Meditate and Practice Mindfulness
   Meditation helps reduce stress and fosters a deeper understanding of your thoughts and emotions. Mindfulness meditation, in particular, allows you to observe your thoughts without judgment, helping you detach from negative thought patterns. Apps like Calm and Headspace, or the Waking Up app by Sam Harris, offer guided meditation sessions that can help cultivate peace and presence in your life.
3. Spend Time in Nature
   Spending time outdoors is proven to boost mental well-being. Nature has a calming, restorative effect on the mind. Research shows that spending at least two hours a week in nature can significantly improve your mood and mental clarity. Whether it’s a walk in the park or a hike in the woods, make time to reconnect with the outdoors regularly.
4. Set Boundaries
   Learning to say “no” and set healthy boundaries is essential for mental health. It’s easy to overcommit in work, relationships, and social situations, leading to stress and burnout. Be honest with yourself and others about what you can and can’t handle, and prioritize your own needs. Boundaries help protect your emotional energy and preserve your well-being.
5. Practice Gratitude
   Gratitude shifts your focus from what you lack to what you have. Regularly acknowledging the things you’re grateful for—whether big or small—can improve mood and mental health. Consider keeping a gratitude journal where you write down a few things you’re thankful for each day.
6. Develop Healthy Coping Mechanisms
   Life inevitably throws challenges your way. It’s important to have healthy strategies in place to manage stress and difficult emotions. Some effective coping mechanisms include:
   • Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices help you stay grounded in the present moment and alleviate stress.
   • Breathing Exercises: Deep, slow breathing can activate the body’s relaxation response, helping you manage anxiety or panic.
   • Talking to Someone: Don’t bottle up your emotions. Sharing your feelings with a friend, family member, or therapist can help you process difficult emotions.
7. Seek Professional Help When Needed
   If you’re struggling with mental health issues, it’s crucial to seek professional help. A therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist can guide you through challenging emotions and provide tools to help you manage stress, anxiety, or depression. Therapy can also offer a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings, while medication may be necessary for some conditions.

1. Engage in Hobbies and Interests
   Engaging in activities you love can bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Whether it’s painting, playing music, gardening, or reading, hobbies provide an outlet for self-expression and relaxation. They also serve as healthy distractions when life becomes overwhelming.
2. Be Patient with Yourself
   Mental health is a journey, and progress takes time. It’s essential to be kind and patient with yourself during difficult times. Healing is not linear, and some days will be harder than others. Celebrate the small victories along the way and recognize your progress, no matter how small.

Managing mental health is not a one-time fix but an ongoing process that requires attention, patience, and self-compassion. By developing healthy habits, building supportive relationships, and practicing self-care, you can create a solid foundation for mental well-being. Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health, and seeking help when needed is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Authors Biography

Sahya S. Dev, holds an MBBS, MD, and Diabetology Fellowship, with 2 years’ teaching experience, 11 publications, and interests in public health. She is COVID-19 certified by Johns Hopkins and Stanford.

The post Building a Smarter, More Balanced Life: Practical Strategies for Mastering Mental Health appeared first on InnoHEALTH magazine.

Menopause, a natural physiological transition marking the end of a woman’s reproductive years, typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. While commonly associated with hormonal shifts and fertility cessation, its broader health implications are often underestimated. One of the most overlooked aspects is the intersection between menopause and the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs)—a growing concern that deserves urgent attention from clinicians, policymakers, and public health stakeholders.

Hormonal Changes: A Silent Catalyst for NCDs

The onset of menopause brings a significant decline in estrogen levels. This hormone, while primarily linked to reproductive health, also plays a crucial protective role in regulating cardiovascular, metabolic, skeletal, and immune systems. Its gradual withdrawal sets off a cascade of physiological changes, many of which contribute to an increased risk of developing chronic conditions.

Cardiovascular Disease: A Rising Threat Post-Menopause

Estrogen supports vascular health by enhancing nitric oxide production, which promotes blood vessel flexibility. It also maintains a favorable lipid profile, keeping LDL (bad cholesterol) low and HDL (good cholesterol) high. When estrogen declines, these protections fade, leading to arterial stiffness, plaque buildup, and rising blood pressure—factors that significantly elevate the risk of coronary artery disease and stroke. Indeed, within a decade after menopause, cardiovascular risk in women sees a steep upward trajectory.

Metabolic Shifts and Bone Vulnerability

Estrogen improves insulin sensitivity and helps maintain stable blood glucose levels. Its absence contributes to increased abdominal fat, insulin resistance, and elevated blood sugar, all of which are precursors to type 2 diabetes. Additionally, estrogen is vital for bone health, as it slows down the breakdown of bone tissue. After menopause, accelerated bone loss can lead to osteoporosis and fragility fractures, particularly in the spine, hips, and wrists.

Mental Health: A Hidden Dimension

The psychological effects of menopause are often underestimated but are no less significant. Estrogen influences the brain’s neurotransmitters—serotonin,dopamine,and norepinephrine—essential for emotional regulation and cognitive performance. As hormone levels drop, many women experience:
– Increased susceptibility to depression and anxiety
– Mood fluctuations and reduced stress resilience
– Difficulty sleeping and diminished cognitive clarity

These symptoms are often exacerbated by external stressors such as caregiving responsibilities, career changes, and evolving family dynamics, potentially leading to decreased self-esteem and emotional burnout.

An Emerging Concern: Cognitive Decline

Recent scientific inquiries have started to draw connections between menopause and an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s. Estrogen’s role in protecting brain cells from oxidative stress and inflammation is only beginning to be fully understood, but its implications highlight the importance of proactive cognitive health strategies during midlife.

A Missed Public Health Opportunity

Despite the established link between menopause and the increased risk for several NCDs—including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and mental health disorders—this life stage remains largely absent from mainstream public health programming. Menopause is rarely addressed as a distinct health milestone requiring preventive care, leaving many women unaware of the risks and without access to timely interventions.

This gap reflects broader gender disparities in healthcare and reveals a pressing need for systemic change. Integrating menopause into the public health narrative offers a pivotal opportunity to reduce the long-term burden of chronic illness and promote healthy aging.

Towards a Gender-Responsive Health Agenda

Public health strategies must begin to see menopause not as a private medical issue but as a societal health turning point. This requires:
– Risk-based screenings for hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and bone density
– Culturally appropriate counselling on lifestyle changes, physical activity, and nutrition
– Access to mental health services, tailored to midlife emotional and cognitive challenges
– Educational initiatives that empower women with knowledge about their changing bodies and health risks

A lifespan approach to women’s health, beyond the reproductive years, can help build more equitable and effective health systems.

Menopause is far more than the end of menstruation—it is a critical inflection point in a woman’s health journey. By recognizing the strong link between menopause and non-communicable diseases, we can shift from reactive treatment to proactive prevention. It’s time we brought menopause to the forefront of public health discourse and created supportive ecosystems that enable women to thrive—not just survive—through this transition and beyond.

Author’s biography

Dr. Shazina Saeed is a physician-scientist with expertise in clinical genetics and public health, currently serving as Assistant Professor and PhD Coordinator at Amity University, Noida.

The post Menopause and NonCommunicable Diseases: The Overlooked Nexus appeared first on InnoHEALTH magazine.

Dr. Virender Sangwan

Dr. Virender Sangwan is renowned ophthalmic surgeon and innovator in stem cell therapy for corneal blindness, with global impact through translational research, surgical innovation, and leadership in vision care advancement was interviewed by Dr. Soumya Singh, Creative Editor of InnoHEALTH Magazine.

Ortho-K, or orthokeratology, is gaining popularity as a non-surgical way to temporarily correct vision. From a clinical and scientific standpoint, how exactly does Ortho-K reshape the cornea, and who can benefit most from this technique?

The Ortho-K is suitable for low myopes, and it essentially mechanically reshapes the cornea during sleep, and the effect lasts temporarily during the day. This way, people who prefer not to wear spectacles or contact lenses during the day find this technique helpful for short periods.

Are there any long-term risks or widespread misconceptions about Ortho-K that you feel the public should be more aware of?

The only small risk is infection, and other than that, it is largely a safe technique. People should understand that it is not a permanent vision correction.

Both LASIK and SMILE are laser-based refractive surgeries. Could you explain the core differences between the two, and under what circumstances one might be preferred over the other?

LASIK means Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis: it is a type of laser refractive surgery to reshape the cornea for correction of refractive errors like shortsightedness. The SMILE is a type of laser eye surgery to correct refractive errors, and it is a type of LASIK. The SMILE- Small Incision Lenticule Extraction is a minimally invasive and flapless laser surgery. The LASIK can be done using a blade or a non-touch technique like SMILE. There other type of LASIK like PRK or PTK. The technique is decided based on several factors like corneal topography, thickness of the cornea, degree of refractive error or power to be corrected, patient preference etc.

The concept of bionic eyes sounds like science fiction becoming reality. From your vantage point in translational ophthalmic research, how do these devices function, and what potential do they hold for patients with severe visual impairment?

Let us first understand how the eye perceives light or images. The front part of the eye (the Cornea and Lens) collects light and focuses it onto Retina, which in turn sends a signal to the brain via the Optic Nerve. When there is irreversible damage to the retina (retinitis pigmentosa, retinal degeneration, etc) a bionic eye can be useful to partially restore vision. The bionic eye is also known as a prosthesis designed to restore some degree of sight to individuals with severe visual loss. The device consists of external components like a camera and a processor to capture & transmit visual
information. The Argus II retinal prosthesis system is such an example of a bionic eye that has been used to treat individuals with severe retinitis pigmentosa. It includes a camera and an electrode array implanted on the retina.

With your experience bridging clinical practice and research, how do you see artificial intelligence transforming the early detection and diagnosis of diseases like diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma?

The artificial intelligence (AI) in the medical and ophthalmic field is transforming the care, and we are implementing these technologies in our research and patient care quickly. I believe the AI is going to help doctors and patients simplify care and processes.

You’ve spent decades striving to make eye care accessible to underserved populations. What recent advancements in tele-ophthalmology have most effectively extended reach to rural or low-resource communities?

There are few technologies which are helping us to reach the unreachable in rural areas. Yes, using Tele-ophthalmology is one such tool and we are practising it extensively in our daily life. The Dr Shroff’s Charitable Eye Hospital (SCEH) has over 6 secondary center, 125 primary eye care centers in addition tertiary care center in Delhi. We examine over 700,000 patients in OPD, over one million school screenings and perform 78000 surgeries in a year. We have been using technology extensively to make it happen, including tele-ophthalmology and tele-refraction.

Femtosecond laser technology has been a game-changer in both cataract and refractive surgeries. Could you share how this innovation has improved surgical precision and patient outcomes?

The femtosecond laser technology is still evolving and making eye surgery more precise, and not necessarily improved the patient outcome. I think the technology has to improve further to improve patient outcomes yet.

You’ve treated over 800 patients using cultivated limbal stem cells, making it the largest known application of adult stem cell therapy in ophthalmology. What have been the most profound outcomes or challenges from this experience?

I have been using and working with stem cell therapy for corneal blindness from the early 2000s and established for the first time cultivated limbal epithelial transplantation (CLET) and then devised new technique of growing stem cells using the eye as “Petri-dish” and regrow damaged corneal outer layer (called as corneal epithelium). This technique is called SLET-simple limbal epithelial transplantation. We don’t need an expensive laboratory for the SLET, and it is a very cost-effective surgery. There has been a profound effect on patients of using these procedures. We have been able to restore vision in some of my patients who have been blind due to chemical injury for 30-40 years.

Translational research has defined much of your career. How do you see the relationship between lab-based discovery and real-world clinical application evolving in the next decade?

Translational research is the foundation of my 30+ years career, and it continues to define my current work. For this purpose, we have established stem cells research laboratory and also SPCORE- Shroff’s Pandorum Centre for Corneal

Regeneration. We also started a PhD program in translational eye research in collaboration with MAHE- Manipal Academy of Higher Education. We have enrolled five PhD students in this program who are solving actual clinical problems faced by our patients. Therefore, the future lies in translational research to improve patient outcomes.

You’ve worked extensively with institutions like LV Prasad Eye Institute and ORBIS International. What insights have you gained about merging innovation with equitable care, especially in resource-limited settings?

I have always worked in not-for-profit organisations throughout my career. Innovation is the key driver for improving access to healthcare for all, as well as for enhancing clinical outcomes through the participation of all stakeholders in an equitable manner. Technological innovations are more relevant in resource-limited settings. Hence, we have started an innovation centre at L V Prasad Eye Institute in 2013, which was inaugurated by Hon’l APJ Abdul Kallam, then president of India. The centre was named as Centre for Innovation and the program “Engineering the Eye”.

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