Latest news with #UjalaCygnusGroupofHospitals
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
9 hours ago
- Health
- Business Standard
Stressed at work? Try these desk-friendly yoga techniques to relax fast
Deadlines piling up, back-to-back meetings, and endless emails—if your workday feels like a pressure cooker, you're not alone. But here's some good news: calm is just a few breaths away, and you don't even need to leave your desk. 'According to Ayurveda, the quality of your breath mirrors the quality of your thoughts. If your breath is chaotic, so is your mind. This is where simple yogic breathing exercises, or Pranayama, can reset your nervous system in just a few minutes—without having to disrupt your workflow,' says Dr Partap Chauhan, Founder & Director of Jiva Ayurveda. International Yoga Day isn't just about complex poses—it's about embracing yoga as a lifestyle. And Pranayama fits seamlessly into even the busiest schedules. Over 1,500 research papers in the last decade confirm that Pranayama reduces stress, induces meditative states, and increases lung capacity—all while being chair- and office-friendly. 'Most people turn to screens, snacks, or caffeine to cope with stress, but those are temporary fixes. One of the most powerful tools for relief is something you already possess—your breath,' says Dr Waseem Ud Din, Consultant Pulmonologist, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals. Four easy breathing exercises to try at your desk Here are some practical Pranayama techniques for instant calm—especially meaningful this International Yoga Day: 1. Box Breathing (Square Breathing) How to do it: Inhale for 4 counts Hold for 4 counts Exhale for 4 counts Hold again for 4 counts Repeat for 3–4 rounds. This Navy SEAL-approved technique quickly calms the nervous system and enhances focus. 2. Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing) When to use: Midday reset or post-lunch fatigue How to do it: Close your right nostril with your thumb; inhale through the left Close the left with your ring finger; release the right and exhale Inhale through the right; close it and exhale through the left That's one round. Repeat for 2–5 minutes. This breathing balances brain hemispheres and sharpens mental clarity. 3. Bhramari (Bee Breath) When to use: After a tense conversation or upsetting email How to do it: Inhale deeply Close your eyes and ears (gently press the cartilage with your thumbs) Exhale with a soft humming sound like a bee Repeat 3–5 times. Known to instantly relax the nervous system and reduce frustration. 4. Sighing Breath When to use: When everything feels overwhelming How to do it: Inhale deeply through your nose Let out an audible sigh through your mouth Repeat 3–4 times. Simple yet effective for releasing built-up tension. Bonus tips: Dr Waseem recommends starting with belly breathing—sit tall, place one hand on your belly, and take slow, deep breaths. 'If your stomach rises as you inhale and falls as you exhale, you're doing it right. Just five breaths can ground your mind instantly,' he says. "Practicing these techniques, in combination with homeopathic remedies such as Kali Phosphoricum 6X (for mental exhaustion) or Argentum Nitricum 30 (anticipatory anxiety), can enhance emotional equilibrium and develop mental resilience over time," adds Dr. Mukesh Batra, Founder & Chairman Emeritus, Dr Batra's Healthcare. Why it works Wellness experts agree: slow, deep breathing signals your brain to relax. This slows heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and reduces cortisol, the primary stress hormone. 'Your breath is the bridge between your body and your mind. Conscious breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes rest and recovery,' explains Dr Chauhan. Dr Neha Agarwal, Critical Care Head at Apollo Hospitals, says she turns to breathwork during chaotic days: 'I close my eyes, inhale slowly for 5 counts, pause, then exhale for 5 counts. Even 60 seconds of conscious breathing between tasks can clear mental clutter.' The best part? No mat or special clothes needed Unlike yoga poses, breathing exercises require no equipment—just your breath and a few minutes of mindfulness. Whether you're stuck in traffic, preparing a presentation, or feeling overwhelmed at your desk, these techniques can help reset your day. So next time stress sneaks up on you, skip the extra coffee. Inhale calm. Exhale chaos.
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
13-06-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
How bee stings can trigger heart attacks: Lessons from Sunjay Kapur's death
Industrialist and Sona Comstar Chairman Sunjay Kapur reportedly died of a heart attack after accidentally swallowing a bee during a polo match in London. While the details are still emerging, this rare but deadly chain of events has left many shocked—and curious about how something so small could cause such a severe reaction. What happens when a bee sting causes anaphylaxis Dr Tariq Rashid, Director and Head of Department of Cardiology, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, told Business Standard: 'Bee stings are typically harmless to many people, but they can have serious risks for those who are allergic. In rare but serious situations, bee stings can cause a reaction called anaphylaxis that can be deadly. This reaction occurs when chemicals, including histamine, are released rapidly into the body, resulting in widespread dilation of blood vessels, a sudden drop in blood pressure, and swelling, especially in the area around the airways. If the sting occurs in the mouth or throat—such as by swallowing a bee accidentally—the risk of airway obstruction and difficulty breathing significantly increases. This combination of lack of oxygen and increased strain on the cardiovascular system can lead to a heart attack or even cardiac arrest in extreme situations.' The science behind anaphylaxis and allergic collapse When a bee stings, it can cause a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening immune response that can occur within seconds or minutes of exposure to an allergen, such as peanuts or bee venom. For some individuals, this may result in: Swelling of the throat or tongue Difficulty breathing A sudden drop in blood pressure Shock or cardiac arrest In some cases, especially when the sting affects the airway or windpipe, even non-allergic individuals can experience life-threatening swelling or spasms. Can a bee sting really cause a heart attack? Yes. Anaphylaxis can trigger Kounis Syndrome—a rare condition in which a severe allergic reaction causes spasms in the coronary arteries, leading to a heart attack. According to experts, this may explain the unfortunate chain of events in Sunjay Kapur's case. Triggers reported in medical literature include stings from ants, bees, wasps, and jellyfish, as well as exposures such as grass cutting, poison ivy, latex contact, limpet ingestion, millet allergy, shellfish consumption, and viper venom poisoning. What to do in a bee sting emergency 'Immediate medical intervention is crucial in such cases. Administering epinephrine (adrenaline) through an auto-injector like an EpiPen is the first line of treatment for anaphylaxis, followed by emergency medical care. Quick action—recognising the signs, calling emergency services, and providing oxygen and CPR if needed—can make the difference between life and death. For individuals with known severe allergies, it's essential to carry emergency medication and inform those around them about how to use it,' said Dr Rashid. Steps to take during a severe allergic reaction If someone shows signs of a severe allergic reaction or collapses suddenly, every second counts. Here's what you should do: Call emergency services immediately Check for a pulse and breathing If unresponsive, begin CPR Use an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) if available Do not try to make the person vomit, even if they've ingested a bee or insect If the person is conscious and showing mild symptoms (such as swelling or difficulty breathing), try to keep them calm and seated upright while waiting for help. Can incidents like this be prevented? While this was an extremely rare and tragic event, certain precautions may help reduce risk: Wear a mouthguard or face covering during outdoor sports, especially in insect-prone areas Avoid drinking sweet beverages uncovered outdoors, as bees are attracted to sugary scents If you have a known allergy, always carry an EpiPen and ensure people around you know how to use it Sunjay Kapur's death is a heartbreaking reminder that medical emergencies can strike without warning. Recognising the signs of anaphylaxis and knowing how to respond quickly could save a life—even in the most unexpected circumstances.
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
12-06-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
India's HPV vaccine rollout brings cervical cancer prevention closer
Let's be honest—most of us did not grow up hearing about HPV, let alone vaccines for it. So, what exactly is HPV? It stands for human papillomavirus—a highly common infection that, in some cases, can lead to cervical cancer. Sounds serious? It is. With early and universal vaccination and improved awareness, India is on the brink of a major public health milestone—one that could save thousands of lives annually. 'Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of more than 100 related viruses, several of which are known to cause cancer, especially cervical cancer in women. HPV is extremely common and spreads primarily through sexual contact. While most infections are mild and clear up on their own, persistent infection with high-risk HPV types—particularly types 16 and 18—can lead to abnormal cell growth in the cervix, eventually resulting in cancer if untreated,' said Dr Tarjini Tiwari, MD, Sion Hospital, Mumbai. She is a part of an ongoing research on cervical cancer, its causes and prevention. Cervical cancer elimination: India's role in a global mission In 2020, the World Health Assembly set a target to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem, aiming for an incidence rate of fewer than four per 100,000 women by 2030. One of the key goals is to fully vaccinate 90 per cent of girls with the HPV vaccine by age 15. India is among 194 countries that have committed to this global target. Although India has not yet introduced the HPV vaccine in its routine immunisation programme, the government is ramping up capacity-building for frontline workers. The national rollout, currently scheduled for the last quarter of 2025, will depend largely on the success of ongoing localised interventions. Dr Aabid Amin Bhat, medical director, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, told Business Standard, 'The government plans to deploy Cervavac, an indigenously developed quadrivalent HPV vaccine, making it affordable and accessible to all sections of society. This initiative will initially target girls aged 9 to 14, with vaccines expected to be delivered through schools and government health centres.' How states are leading HPV vaccination efforts 'Through Mission Indradhanush and the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP), the government is integrating the HPV vaccine into the national schedule. States like Punjab, Sikkim, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have already launched school-based vaccination drives with high coverage, demonstrating the feasibility of large-scale rollout,' Dr Tiwari added. Why HPV vaccination is crucial for India Over 1.2 lakh new cervical cancer cases are reported in India each year One woman dies of cervical cancer every 8 minutes in India India accounts for nearly one-fifth of global cervical cancer deaths HPV vaccination can prevent up to 90% of cervical cancer cases 'The significance of the HPV vaccine cannot be overstated. Over 90 per cent of cervical cancer cases are linked to HPV infection, making vaccination one of the most effective ways to prevent this deadly disease,' said Dr Tiwari. She added, 'The vaccine is most effective when administered before exposure to the virus, which is why it is recommended for girls and boys aged 9–14. Vaccinating boys is also important, as HPV causes cancers of the penis, anus and throat, and boys can spread the virus. The vaccine also protects against genital warts, offering broader health benefits.' Common challenges and persistent myths With an annual birth cohort of around 24 million, each year's delay in vaccine implementation results in approximately 12 million girls ageing out of eligibility. Of these, an estimated 160,000 may develop preventable cervical cancer in their lifetimes. 'Despite its proven benefits, HPV vaccine coverage in India remains low. Key barriers include high private-sector costs (₹2,000 to over ₹10,000 per dose), lack of awareness, vaccine safety misconceptions and limited rural access. Many families are unaware that the vaccine is safe, effective and life-saving,' said Dr Tiwari. Dr Dhivya Sharona, consultant – gynaecology, Rela Hospital, Chennai, added, 'A major misconception is that the vaccine promotes sexual promiscuity or interferes with fertility. While HPV is a sexually transmitted virus, it can also be contracted through partners. The vaccine is preventive and should be administered before the onset of sexual activity.' She stressed that parents should know the HPV vaccine is not linked to promoting early sexual behaviour. Side effects are usually mild, such as soreness or mild fever. HPV vaccine cost: public vs private access Gardasil 4 by Merck Sharpe & Dohme (₹4,000 per dose) Gardasil 9 by MSD (₹11,000 per dose) Cervavac by Serum Institute of India (₹2,000 per dose) In private hospitals, a full course can cost between ₹4,000 and ₹30,000, depending on the vaccine and number of doses. Under government programmes, Cervavac is available for free or at a nominal cost (₹0–₹400 per dose), greatly improving access for families who could not afford private vaccination. Pilot programmes show promise Early pilot projects in states like Sikkim, Punjab and Assam have demonstrated high uptake when vaccines were administered through school-based programmes and supported by community outreach. 'Sikkim was the first state to implement the programme successfully. The HPV vaccine was provided to school children, both girls and boys, using a two-dose schedule. This approach simplifies logistics, generates stronger immune response, fosters herd immunity and protects against other HPV-related cancers such as anal, penile, vulval, vaginal and oropharyngeal cancers,' said Dr Sharona. Dr Bhat added, 'The national strategy will involve coordination between the ministries of health, education and women and child development, as well as training frontline health workers and launching IEC (Information, Education and Communication) campaigns to fight misinformation.' What Indian parents need to know Is it safe? Yes. Cervavac is manufactured in India by the Serum Institute and approved by Indian regulatory authorities. It is already in use globally. How many doses? As per WHO guidelines, a single dose is now considered effective for the 9–14 age group. A second dose may be advised by doctors in certain cases. Where is it available? Initially through government schools and health centres. Parents can also consult their paediatrician for private availability. Can adults get vaccinated? Sexually active adults, both men and women, can benefit from the HPV vaccine. Women under 45 are encouraged to get vaccinated and screened regularly. Looking ahead: a cervical cancer-free future India's HPV vaccine rollout is a landmark public health move with the potential to eliminate cervical cancer within a generation. But success hinges on more than policy—it depends on parental awareness, social acceptance and sustained access. Protecting future generations starts now, and it starts at home.
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
11-06-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Tired, hungry and gaining weight? Insulin resistance could be to blame
Have you been feeling more tired lately, gaining weight around the belly despite eating right, or struggling with constant sugar cravings? It might not just be your hectic schedule—it could be insulin resistance, a silent metabolic red flag that's increasingly making its way into Indian households. What is insulin resistance and why is it dangerous? Insulin resistance occurs when cells in your muscles, fat and liver do not respond properly to insulin—a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar. Insulin enables glucose to move from your bloodstream into your cells, where it is used for energy. When this process is disrupted, your cells stop responding efficiently to insulin. Over time, this leads to pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and metabolic syndrome. In simple terms, your body works overtime to keep blood sugar in check, and this chronic strain destabilises glucose levels, leading to serious health risks. 'Your brain cells may not receive enough glucose to function normally if blood glucose levels fall dangerously low (severe hypoglycaemia). This is a serious condition and calls for immediate medical attention,' said Dr Himika Chawla, senior consultant, endocrinology and diabetology, PSRI Hospital. Conversely, if the pancreas produces too little insulin, glucose cannot enter your cells. 'Your blood glucose level rises as glucose accumulates until it becomes too high. This is known as hyperglycaemia. You might develop type 2 diabetes if your blood glucose levels consistently remain high,' added Dr Chawla. Why more Indian families are at risk today According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the prevalence of insulin resistance among Indian adolescents is rising. Approximately 20–25% of Indian youth aged 10–19 years are affected. With India often labelled the diabetes capital of the world, insulin resistance is a critical precursor. The main drivers of this increase include: Sedentary lifestyles: Desk jobs, long hours and minimal physical activity High-carb, high-sugar diets: Roti, rice and sweets spike insulin levels Stress and poor sleep: Long commutes, excessive screen time and irregular sleep Genetic predisposition: South Asians tend to accumulate visceral fat even at normal weight. Historical food scarcity and famine may also play a role 'Compounding the issue is a cultural shift away from traditional, balanced diets towards refined grains and sugary foods, along with increased screen time and decreased physical activity,' said Dr Jaspreet Singh, endocrinology, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals. Early signs of insulin resistance you should never ignore Insulin resistance often shows up subtly. Watch out for: Constant fatigue Increased hunger, especially for carbohydrates Weight gain around the belly Difficulty losing weight Unintended weight loss Darkened skin around the neck or underarms (acanthosis nigricans) Skin tags Brain fog, trouble focusing or blurry vision High blood pressure or cholesterol Excessive thirst and frequent urination Decreased testosterone, affecting reproductive health and fertility 'Crucially, insulin resistance is not a standalone condition but a driver of metabolic syndrome—a cluster of issues including high blood pressure, high triglycerides, low HDL (good) cholesterol and excess abdominal fat. Together, these greatly elevate the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes,' added Dr Singh. 'Gestational diabetes—that is, diabetes during pregnancy—increases the risk of developing insulin resistance. Certain medications, especially glucocorticoids or steroids taken over a long period, can also increase the risk. Medical conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome, sleep apnoea, acromegaly or Cushing's syndrome are all linked to high insulin resistance. Emerging evidence also suggests that low levels of vitamin D may contribute,' said Dr Pearlsy Grace Rajan, senior consultant, internal medicine, Rela Hospital, Chennai. Lifestyle changes that can reverse insulin resistance The good news is that insulin resistance can often be reversed through lifestyle changes and medical support, especially when caught early. Here is what helps: Move more, sit less: Aim for 30–45 minutes of exercise daily. Even a walk after meals improves insulin sensitivity and helps with sugar cravings 'We need to emphasise resistance or strength training at least thrice a week to build muscle mass, which improves insulin sensitivity,' said Dr Ranjan. Follow a smart plate strategy: 'Be mindful of your carbohydrate intake, and also the time of day you consume them,' added Dr Ranjan. Choose whole grains over white rice or maida, include protein in every meal (dal, eggs, paneer, lean meats), and add fibre through fruits and vegetables. Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks: Packaged snacks, juices and sodas can worsen insulin resistance Prioritise sleep: 7–8 hours of uninterrupted sleep helps regulate blood sugar and appetite hormones Manage stress levels: Yoga, deep breathing, meditation and time away from screens help. Activities like painting or playing music also support stress reduction Tests to diagnose insulin resistance in India Insulin resistance is usually diagnosed through the HOMA-IR (homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance) test, which measures fasting insulin and glucose levels. The HbA1c test, which shows average blood sugar over 2–3 months, is also useful. These tests are available at most diagnostic labs and typically cost between ₹920 and ₹1,300. How Indian families can tackle it together Insulin resistance is not just a personal health concern—it affects entire families. Shared habits like daily walks, eating home-cooked meals and scheduling check-ups can help Indian households prevent this growing threat. Insulin resistance may be silent, but its consequences are loud. The earlier you act, the better your chances of preventing diabetes and living a full, energetic life. Prevention isn't just better than cure—it's simpler, cheaper and smarter too.
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
09-06-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
The silent struggle: PCOS and PCOD on the rise among young Indian women
Across India, an increasing number of adolescent girls and young women are grappling with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) – two hormonal disorders that often go undetected but can have significant long-term health consequences. Affecting reproductive, metabolic, and psychological well-being, these conditions are becoming more prevalent in the 15–25 age group, largely due to lifestyle factors, urban stress, and lack of awareness. Health experts estimate that PCOS now affects between 3.7% and 22.5% of Indian women, depending on diagnostic criteria and location. Globally, it is among the most common endocrine disorders, impacting 8–13% of women of reproductive age. Understanding PCOS and PCOD Today, the terms PCOS and PCOD are often used interchangeably but medically they are two distinct entities. Dr. Dhivya Sharona, Consultant – Gynaecology, Rela Hospital Chennai, explains: 'PCOD is a condition where ovulation is affected and there is formation of cysts in the ovaries. Here, the ovaries produce immature and partially mature eggs in large quantities leading to the formation of cysts secreting excess amounts of androgen (male hormone).' 'It is associated with irregular periods, excessive bleeding and painful periods. It is more common than PCOS and affects around 1/3rd women of reproductive age worldwide. It is also less severe than PCOS and has less impact on fertility compared to PCOS. Around 80% women with PCOD are able to conceive with help,' Dr Sharona adds. On the other hand, PCOS is a syndrome with a spectrum of signs and symptoms including painful periods, weight gain, excessive hair growth, mental health disorder and both presence and absence of cyst formation in the ovaries. The incidence of PCOS is quoted to be between 5-20% in actively menstruating women. It has a high association with obesity along with hypertension, diabetes and heart diseases. Dr. Nidhi Thakur, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals says that in some cases, ovaries form fluid-filled cysts when the egg is not released properly, leading to amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), hormonal disruption, and fertility issues. Despite the name, not all women with PCOS have visible ovarian cysts, which often makes diagnosis difficult. Recent studies show that most people with PCOS have insulin resistance, where the body's cells don't respond properly to insulin, disrupting hormone balance. Testing for this can help rule out other conditions often mistaken for PCOS. The challenges Many young women with PCOS or PCOD go undiagnosed for years. Symptoms like irregular periods, hair growth, or weight fluctuations are often normalised or overlooked. This delay in diagnosis means the condition progresses silently, potentially leading to infertility, insulin resistance, obesity, sleep apnea, and mental health issues like anxiety and depression. The social stigma around discussing menstrual or reproductive issues also contributes to underdiagnosis. In many cases, women only discover their condition while struggling to conceive or manage other related health complications. In 2021, a study was undertaken by the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh to assess treatment pathways that patients with PCOS have followed. It revealed that even after having initiated treatment, almost 45% of the patients knew nothing about PCOS. Only 9.1% learned anything from their doctors, and almost 85.5% had to visit multiple doctors to gather information. Some patients (approximately 37%) also took to the internet as their primary source of information in trying to learn about their condition. Many women, in a different ethnographic study, revealed that they received conflicting information from different health-care professionals about their condition, which generates a "trust deficit." That is, women have begun to lose trust in their doctors because they are not confident about the quality of the information provided to them. There is a disconnect that the patients feel, which can only be bridged through clear communication and helping them understand how the condition and its management go hand in hand. Lifestyle and prevention: The first line of defense While there's no permanent cure, PCOS and PCOD can be effectively managed through early intervention and lifestyle changes. A healthy diet, weight management, and regular exercise play a crucial role in restoring hormonal balance and improving insulin sensitivity. Reducing sugar and processed food intake helps control blood sugar and insulin levels. Moderate physical activity improves metabolism and regulates the menstrual cycle. Stress-reduction practices like yoga or meditation help manage hormonal fluctuations. Even a modest weight loss of 5–10% can significantly improve symptoms and restore ovulation in many cases, says Dr. Nidhi Thakur. Medical management and costs Medical treatment typically includes hormonal contraceptives to regulate periods and reduce androgen levels, as well as anti-androgen medications to manage symptoms like excess hair growth. In some cases, laparoscopic ovarian drilling is recommended when medications are ineffective. The cost of managing PCOS can vary: Hormonal medications: ₹400–₹800 per month Surgery (if needed): ₹35,000–₹50,000 Total treatment costs may range from ₹20,000 to ₹50,000, depending on the individual case Though affordable options are available, the cumulative long-term costs can be high if not managed early. Long-term impact on health and fertility If left unmanaged, these diseases can significantly affect a woman's long-term health. The risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, and endometrial cancer increases with time. PCOS is also a leading cause of infertility, due to chronic anovulation and hormonal imbalance. Beyond physical symptoms, the condition can have a profound psychological impact. The frustration of dealing with chronic symptoms, weight issues, and fertility concerns can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression, making mental health support an important part of the treatment plan. Importance of early detection and regular check-ups PCOD and PCOS are on rise due to high stress, poor social and emotional relatedness, sedentary lifestyle, environmental toxins etc. Dr. Dhivya says that the lack of reproductive health education, taboo around discussing female reproduction along with social and cultural notions of women's ability to bear pain render women unable and unwilling to seek necessary help. Thus, both the conditions are significantly under-diagnosed by practitioners and there is a significant information gap that does not offer people the resources they need. Young women are encouraged to consult gynaecologists if they experience irregular menstrual cycles. Basic screening tests—such as fasting blood sugar, HbA1c, lipid profiles, BMI, and ultrasound scans—can help detect early signs of PCOS and prevent complications. In some cases, consultation with endocrinologists and nutritionists may also be needed for comprehensive care. To effectively tackle this health crisis, we need a major shift in how the conditions are understood and managed. Closing knowledge gaps, creating evidence-based treatment guidelines, and prioritizing lifestyle changes along with complementary therapies—supported by accessible patient education—are all critical steps forward. A manageable condition with the right support PCOS and PCOD are chronic but manageable conditions. With early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and appropriate medical support, most women can live healthy, fulfilling lives. What's crucial is breaking the silence around menstrual and hormonal health and making gynaecological check ups a routine part of adolescent healthcare. Raising awareness, both at the family and institutional level, can help young Indian women recognise symptoms early, seek help without stigma, and take control of their health before complications set in.
