Men infected with high-risk types of HPV could struggle with fertility, suggests study

Cervical cancer, the fourth most common cancer type in women, causes approximately 350,000 deaths each year, mainly in middle- and low-income countries. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is known to cause 95% of these cases. Public health authorities in 37 countries currently vaccinate girls between nine and 14 years of age, before they typically start sexual activity.

HPV is also known to increase the risk of genital warts and cancers of the penis, anus, mouth, and throat in infected men, which is one of the reasons why the WHO and the US Center for Disease Control (CDC) advise that boys, too, should be routinely vaccinated against it. However, the full suite of potential effects of HPV in men and boys is still unknown.

“Here we show that genital HPV infection is very prevalent in men, with variable effects on semen inflammation and sperm quality according to the infecting viral genotype,” said Dr Virginia Rivero, a professor at the Universidad Nacional de Córdoba in Argentina, and the senior author of a new study in Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology.

“Specifically, infections caused by high-risk HPV genotypes appear to have more negative effects on male fertility and the immune system’s ability to clear the infection.”

More than 200 different HPV genotypes have been identified, typically classified in high-risk (HR-HPV) and low-risk (LR-HPV) genotypes. HR-HPV can be detected in approximately 100% of cervical cancers in women and a high percentage of anal, genital, and mouth and throat cancers in women and men. LR-HPV is typically detectable in abnormal but benign cervical cells in women and warts on the surface of the larynx and genitals in both sexes, but without causing cancer.

Rivero and colleagues studied the effects of HPV in a cross section of the male population in Argentina: 205 adult male volunteers who attended a single urology and andrology clinic for initial fertility assessment or problems of the urinary tract between 2018 and 2021. None had been vaccinated against HPV.

Seminal study

The volunteers donated a sample of their ejaculate, and the presence or absence of HPV and other sexually transmitted infections were determined by PCR. Among the 205 individuals analyzed, 19% tested positive for HPV. Specifically, 20 men were classified as positive for HR-HPV, while 7 were identified as positive for LR-HPV.These HPV-positive individuals were compared to 43 men with no infections detected. A further 12 men were found to be HPV positive, but their genotype couldn’t be determined due to low viral loads.

Most HPV positive men were infected with only a single genotype, but three men carried two genotypes simultaneously.

First, the researchers studied the semen samples with a battery of routine analysis methods, as recommended by the WHO. Following these criteria, they found no evidence of a difference in semen quality between the three groups.

However, this apparent suggestion of normal fertility in HPV-infected men proved to be far from the full picture. When Rivero and colleagues examined the samples with more focused, high-resolution methods, they were surprised to find that HR-HPV positive men had significantly lower counts of CD45+ white blood cells (leukocytes) in their semen. They also found evidence that sperm of HR-HPV positive men may suffer frequent damage from oxidative stress, judging by their elevated production of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

While low levels of ROS are a product of normal sperm function, elevated levels can lead to rupture of the cell membrane, breaks in DNA, and uncontrolled and unprogrammed cell death. Indeed, the researchers showed that HR-HPV positive men had a higher percentage of dead sperm.

Raising important questions

“We concluded that men infected with HR-HPV, but not men infected with LR-HPV, show increased sperm death due to oxidative stress and a weakened local immune response in the urogenital tract,” said Rivero.

“These results suggests that HR-HPV positive men could have impaired fertility.”

Rivero et al. explained the observed lower count of immune cells in the semen of HR-HPV positive men from the known ability of HPV to evade an immune response. This would lead to a reduced movement of leukocytes to the site of HPV infection and their impaired ability to clear this infection.

“Our study raises important questions about how HR-HPV affects sperm DNA quality and what implications it has for reproduction and offspring health. It’s important to understand the biological mechanisms underlying these effects. And, given that sexually transmitted co-infections are quite common, we plan to explore whether bearing HPV infection alongside other STIs influence these outcomes,” said Rivero.

Reference:

Carolina Olivera, Daniela A. Paira, José J. Olmedo, Impact of high-risk and low-risk human papillomavirus infections on the male genital tract: effects on semen inflammation and sperm quality, Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology, https://doi.org/10.3389/fcimb.2024.1420307.

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Study Reveals Betatrophin Rise and Sestrin 2 Decline in Diabetic Nephropathy Patients

Egypt: Diabetic nephropathy remains a significant complication affecting individuals with type 2 diabetes, contributing to increased morbidity and mortality. Recent research has focused on identifying biomarkers that could potentially aid in the early diagnosis and management of diabetic nephropathy (DN).

The study, published in BMC Nephrology, found a significant increase in betatrophin levels and a significant decrease in serum Sestrin 2 levels among patients with DN, particularly the macroalbuminuria group.

“In diabetic nephropathy, Sestrin 2 function is impaired, but restoring it has been shown to reverse a cascade of molecular changes, leading to improved renal function, reduced albuminuria, and mitigation of structural damage,” the researchers wrote.

Diabetic kidney disease is one of the most severe microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus and the primary contributor to chronic kidney disease (CKD) globally. Since T2D and obesity are considered inflammatory conditions, thus reducing their accompanied systemic inflammation may reduce their complications.

Sestrin 2 is part of a family of stress-induced proteins produced in response to oxidative stress, inflammation, and DNA damage. Betatrophin is a hormone that promotes the growth, proliferation, and mass expansion of pancreatic beta-cells, thereby enhancing glucose tolerance. Asmaa Mounir Emara, Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt, and colleagues aimed to evaluate serum Sestrin 2 and betatrophin levels in patients with different DN stages and compare results with healthy control.

For this purpose, the researchers conducted a cross-sectional study comprising 60 patients above 18 years old recruited from Tanta University hospitals out patients clinics and 20 healthy individuals of matched sex and age as a control group.

Participants were categorized into two groups: Group I comprised 20 normal subjects as the control group. Group II consisted of 60 patients diagnosed with T2D, further subdivided into three equal groups: Group IIA (20 patients) with normoalbuminuria (ACR < 30 mg/g), Group IIB (20 patients) with microalbuminuria (ACR = 30 to 300 mg/g), and Group IIC (20 patients) with macroalbuminuria (ACR > 300 mg/g).

They were subjected to detailed history taking, careful clinical examination, and laboratory investigations, including serum creatinine, blood urea, urinary albumin creatinine ratio, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and specific laboratory tests for Sestrin 2 and Betatrophin by using ELISA technique.

The following were the key findings of the study:

· Serum Sestrin 2 significantly decreased, while serum betatrophin level significantly increased in the macroalbuminuric group compared to the control and other two diabetic groups.

· The cut-off value of serum sestrin 2 was 0.98 ng/ml with a sensitivity of 99%, and a specificity of 66%, while the cut-off value of serum betatrophin was > 98.25 ng/ml with a sensitivity of 98%, a specificity of 82%.

· Serum betatrophin positively correlated with age, fasting, 2 h postprandial, BMI, triglyceride, total cholesterol, serum creatinine, blood urea, UACR, and negatively correlated with eGFR and serum albumin.

· Serum Sestrin 2 positively correlated with serum albumin. BMI, serum urea, UACR, and serum albumin.

· Serum betatrophin is found to be a risk factor or predictor for diabetic nephropathy.

The findings showed that in patients with diabetic nephropathy, particularly those with macroalbuminuria, serum levels of betatrophin were markedly elevated compared to both other diabetic groups and the control group. Serum betatrophin showed significant positive correlations with age, fasting and postprandial glucose levels, BMI, triglycerides, total cholesterol, serum creatinine, blood urea, urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR), and significant negative correlations with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and serum albumin levels. Consequently, serum betatrophin levels can serve as a significant predictor for diabetic nephropathy.

“Conversely, serum levels of Sestrin 2 were notably decreased, especially in patients with macroalbuminuria, but did not emerge as a significant predictor for diabetic nephropathy. However, targeting its restoration could represent a novel therapeutic approach aimed at reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and enhancing autophagy in diabetic nephropathy,” the researchers wrote.

The main limitation of the study was that as a cross-sectional study, the sample size was comparatively small.

Reference:

Emara, A.M., El Bendary, A.S., Ahmed, L.M. et al. Evaluation of serum levels of sestrin 2 and betatrophin in type 2 diabetic patients with diabetic nephropathy. BMC Nephrol 25, 231 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12882-024-03663-2

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Former and current use of abacavir linked to higher incidence of MACE: Study

Current or previous use of the antiretroviral drug (ARV) abacavir was associated with an elevated risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in people with HIV, according to an exploratory analysis from a large international clinical trial primarily funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). There was no elevated MACE risk for the other antiretroviral drugs included in the analysis. The findings will be presented at the 2024 International AIDS Conference (AIDS 2024) in Munich, Germany.

The Randomized Trial to Prevent Vascular Events in HIV (REPRIEVE) enrolled 7,769 study participants with HIV from 12 countries that found daily use of a cholesterol-fighting statin drug reduced the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes by more than one third. The REPRIEVE study team also performed statistical analyses to assess whether select ARVs were associated with MACE risk among study participants, all of whom had low-to-moderate cardiovascular disease risk. The ARVs selected for analysis had previously been linked to cardiovascular risk and included abacavir, tenofovir, zidovudine, stavudine, and drugs from a class called protease inhibitors (PIs). All were taken as part of multi-drug ART regimens.

Overall, 22% of study participants reported prior exposure to abacavir, 86% to tenofovir, 49% to zidovudine or stavudine, and 47% to PIs. At study entry, 13% of participants were taking abacavir, 61% were taking tenofovir, 10% were taking zidovudine or stavudine, and 26% were taking PIs. In the investigators’ analyses, participants with prior and current use of abacavir had a 50% and 42% elevated risk of MACE, respectively, compared to participants with no abacavir exposure. Former or current use of other ARVs was not associated with any change in MACE risk, and the co-administration of common ARV drug classes as part of an ART regimen did not impact the elevated MACE risk among participants with current or prior abacavir exposure.

According to the authors, these findings align with previous studies that also identified an elevated cardiovascular disease risk associated with abacavir. They suggest that more research is needed to better understand the increased risk observed in this analysis, including how these findings should be considered in the context of known cardiovascular disease risk factors, such as dyslipidemia, diabetes and hypertension, for people with HIV.

Reference:

CJ Fichtenbaum et al.Abacavir is associated with elevated risk for cardiovascular events in the REPRIEVE trial. International AIDS Conference. Friday, July 26, 2024.

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Eye injury due to dengue fever, not delay by ophthalmologist: NCDRC relief to Delhi Hospital in medical negligence case

New Delhi: Reiterating the observations made by the Supreme Court, the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) recently clarified that a simple lack of care, an error of judgment or an accident, is not proof of negligence by a medical professional.

As per the Apex Consumer Court presided by Justice Ram Surat Maurya and Mr. Bharatkumar Pandya negligence in the medical field is judged if an injury results from an act or omission.

It further held that there are three essential components of negligence- duty, breach, and resulting damage and in the medical profession, negligence necessarily calls for a treatment with a different.

These observations were made by the NCDRC bench while considering a complaint of medical negligence against Shri Balaji Action Medical Institute. As per the complainant, back in 2008, he was suffering from high-grade fever and was diagnosed with Dengue by the treating doctor at Shri Balaji hospital. He was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit, where various tests were conducted.

The test report showed “Dengue NS-1 Antigen” as negative. As per the complainant, due to negligent treatment in ICU, his ‘Platelet Count’ started falling and his visibility of the eyesight of both eyes became very low.

Allegedly, even though he informed the attending doctors and nurses about his low visibility on 05.10.2008 they ignored it. His condition became critical and the next morning the senior doctor advised for MRI. The report showed “Subcutaneous edema in the bilateral eyelids with pathological of wall of optic globes”.

The complainant submitted that the doctors failed to control the infection in his eyes and the complainant lost visibility. Thereafter he was referred to AIIMS, New Delhi and the doctors informed the complainant’s father that they were unable to diagnose the reason for loss of visibility.

Consequently, he was admitted to ‘Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic’ of AIIMS, where he remained admitted for weeks but still did not get effective results. After getting discharged from AIIMS, the complainant took treatment at several other facilities but could not regain his visibility in any of the eyes. 

Therefore, the complainant alleged that due to gross negligence by the doctors of the treating hospital, the complainant became permanently blind. He further claimed that if the hospital was not competent to handle the complainant’s patient, they should not have admitted him. Filing the consumer complaint, he prayed for a compensation of Rs 50 lacs for loss of eyesight, Rs 25 lacs for compensation for physical pain and mental agony and Rs 5 lacs as the medical expenses with interest @18% per annum from the date of loss of eyesight till the date of payment.

On the other hand, the hospital submitted that the patient was diagnosed with acute febrile illness with severe thrombocytopenia with bleeding diathesis, and bleeding gums. He also had purpuric spots on his legs. 

Immediately, he was admitted to the ICU and examined by Senior Consultant & Unit Head of the Hospital and gastrointestinal bleeding was suspected. The blood test report showed a platelet count nil. 

Considering the symptomatology and the reports of a dengue fever outbreak, 4 platelet concentrate and one unit of platelet apheresis were transfused to the patient. As there was bleeding from multiple sites, two units of FFP were also given along with IV fluids and other supportive therapy. His reports revealed severe life-threatening thrombocytopenia, haemoconcentration, mildly deranged prothrombin time, positive dengue serology suggestive of secondary or tertiary dengue infection. He had polyserositis (right pleural effusion), moderate ascites and gall bladder was edema. His clinical symptomatology and investigations were suggestive of dengue haemorrhage fever.

As per the hospital, the patient was looked after by a qualified ICU Resident Doctor and was constantly monitored and supervised by the treating consultants. 

Regarding the complaint of blurred vision, the hospital submitted that the patient was referred to a Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist, whose impression was intraorbital/cerebral haemorrhage and the patient was advised CT Scan of Head & Orbit axial + coronal cuts thin sections. CT scan report revealed focal hypo-densities left parietal region near the convexity and no evidence of intracranial haemorrhage. 

A neurologist was consulted and the case was reviewed by Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist also, who suspected impression of acute optic neuritis, vitereous haemorrhage due to haze, no view was possible in the fundus examination. He advised for MRI orbit, which revealed multiple micro-bleeds in the bilateral fronto parietal subcortical and periventricular white matter and basal ganglia.

There was a subcutaneous edema in the bilateral eyelids with pathological thickening of wall of optic globes. The patient was bleeding in vital organs like eyes. His platelets were maintained at more than 50000/min by platelet transfusion and his prothrombin time was maintained by giving this Fresh Frozen Plasma. The ophthalmologist team reviewed the patient and observed that the patient had epithelial edema+epithelial deficit over the cornea in both eyes. The eyes also had chemosis. As there was no improvement in the patient’s vision, he was referred to AIIMS for further management 

The hospital contended that the patient was treated according to standard protocol, with compassion, a humane touch and was given the best care. He was timely investigated and timely referred. Therefore, there was no medical negligence or deficiency in service on the hospital’s part.

While considering the complaint, the State Commission sought an expert opinion from Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi, which formed a Medical Board. The Medical Board examined the papers and submitted its report dated 03.01.2014 stating that no medical negligence was committed at the hospital during the patient’s treatment.

Meanwhile, the patient had also made a complaint against the hospital and the treating doctors before the Delhi Medical Council, who had conducted an inquiry after hearing the parties, the Council found that the treatment given to the patient in the hospital was per Standard Protocol and no negligence was committed.

However, the State Commission held that the patient had reported blurring vision while the Ophthalmologist attended to the patient. Therefore, there was no reason for not attending the patient by the ophthalmologist and starting treatment of the eyes. Even after examination by the Ophthalmologist, unreasonable delay was caused in obtaining the CT Scan report and MRI report and this was a crucial period for the patient. Therefore, holding that the hospital had committed negligence in taking care of the patient’s eyes, resulting in permanent damage, the Commission had directed the hospital to pay Rs 35 lakh compensation for loss of eyesight and medical expenses to the complainant.

Challenging this order, the hospital approached the NCDRC bench. While considering the matter, the State Commission relied on the Supreme Court order in the case of Jacob Mathew v. State of Punjab, in which the Apex Court held that Negligence in the context of the medical profession necessarily calls for a treatment with a difference. To infer rashness or negligence on the part of a professional, in particular a doctor, additional considerations apply. A case of occupational negligence is different from one of professional negligence. A simple lack of care, an error of judgment or an accident, is not proof of negligence on the part of a medical professional. So long as a doctor follows a practice acceptable to the medical profession of that day, he cannot be held liable for negligence merely because a better alternative course or method of treatment was also available or simply because a more skilled doctor would not have chosen to follow or resort to that practice or procedure which the accused followed.

The NCDRC bench took note of the expert report by the Medical Board of Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi, which mentioned in its report that ophthalmologic complications like optic neuritis, which can lead to blindness are known to occur in dengue fever. Delhi Medical Council also in its order dated 27.04.2012 held that dengue along with superinfection subsequently leading to phthisis neuritis is a known complication of dengue.

“Medical literature shows that although spontaneous visual recovery is possible but optic neuropathy associated with dengue fever may result in severe permanent visual loss. State Commission has illegally ignored the MRI report, expert opinions and not considered the medical literature,” noted the Apex Consumer Court.

“In the present case, the injury was caused to the patient due to dengue fever and not due to delay in attending by the ophthalmologist. Supreme Court in above cases held that negligence becomes actionable on account of injury resulting from the act or omission amounting to negligence attributable to the person sued. The essential components of negligence are three: “duty”, “breach” and “resulting damage”. Negligence in the context of the medical profession necessarily calls for a treatment with a difference. As such not only negligence but resultant damage due to negligence give rise for an action against the doctor/hospital,” it further noted.

Therefore, holding that there was no medical negligence by the treating doctor, the NCDRC bench set aside the State Commission’s order.

To read the order, click on the link below:

https://medicaldialogues.in/pdf_upload/ncdrc-no-med-negligence-249172.pdf

Also Read: MD Medicine Doctors Competent to Treat ICU Patients Without Additional Intensive Care Training: NCDRC

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CDSCO Panel grants AstraZeneca Pharma’s proposal to include self-administration in package insert of Benralizumab

New Delhi: The Subject Expert Committee (SEC) functional under the Central Drug Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has approved drug major AstraZeneca Pharma’s proposal to revise the package insert for Benralizumab 30 mg/ml solution for injection with respect to the inclusion of instructions for self-administration of the drug by the patient or caregiver.

This came after AstraZeneca Pharma India presented the proposal for revision in the package insert, vide version 4.0 dated 10.02.2023 with respect to the inclusion of instructions for self-administration of the drug by the patient /caregiver.

The committee has noted that the PFS presentation of the drug is already approved for the subcutaneous route and proposed for self-administration of the drug by the patient/caregiver.

Benralizumab is a humanized recombinant monoclonal antibody of the isotype IgG1k immunoglobulin that specifically binds to the alpha chain of the interleukin 5 receptor (IL-5R) expressed on eosinophils and basophils

It inhibits the binding of IL-5 as well as the hetero-oligomerization of the alpha and beta subunits of the IL-5R, thus blocking signal transduction. It is an afucosylated IgG which gives it high affinity for the FcγRIIIα receptor in natural killer cells, macrophages and neutrophils.

Benralizumab is indicated as a maintenance treatment of patients 6 years or older with severe asthma and an eosinophilic phenotype. Benralizumab injection is used together with other medicines to treat severe asthma in patients whose asthma is not controlled with their current asthma medicines. This medicine helps prevent severe asthma attacks (exacerbations) and can improve your breathing.

At the recent SEC meeting for pulmonary held on August 6, 2024, the expert panel reviewed the proposal for revision in the package insert with respect to the inclusion of instructions for self-administration of the drug by the patient /caregiver.

After detailed deliberation, the committee recommended approval of the revision in the package insert vide version 4.0 dated 10.02.2023 for inclusion of instructions for self-administration of drug by patient/caregiver.

Also Read: Revise Phase III CT Protocol: CDSCO Panel Tells Windlass Biotech on FDC Tamsulosin Hydrochloride plus Mirabegron

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Health Bulletin 26/ August/ 2024

Here are the top health stories for the day:

 Brain-dead 72-year-old woman donates organs and tissues, saves 5 lives

On the morning of 15th August, 72-year-old Ms Kavita Rajkumar Goel, was found unconscious in her house. Her family immediately rushed her to HCMCT Manipal Hospital, Dwarka.

Ms Kavita was resuscitated and placed on the ventilator. An urgent CT scan of head revealed massive brain hemorrhage. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, her condition deteriorated rapidly and she was declared brain.

For more information, click on the link below:

72-year-old brain-dead woman gives new life to five with organ, tissue donation at HCMCT Manipal Hospital

JJ Hospital Dean Dr. Pallavi Saple joins Supreme Court-formed National Task Force for Hospital security

Dr Pallavi Saple, Dean of the JJ Group of Hospitals, has been selected as the sole representative from Maharashtra in the National Task Force for Hospital Security, established by the Supreme Court on Monday.

Dr Saple, a 51-year-old paediatrician, made history in 2019 when she became the youngest dean of the state-run hospital since Independence. She oversees the JJ campus, which spans 48 acres.

For more information, click on the link below:

JJ Hospital Dean Dr Pallavi Saple joins SC-formed National Task Force for Hospital Security

Medical College fined Rs 10 lakh for ‘misleading’ the High Court

 While considering a plea filed by White Medical College and Hospital, previously known as Chintpurni Medical College and Hospital, the Punjab and Haryana High Court recently slapped a fine of Rs 10 lakh on the institute for “misleading” the court.

Filing the plea, the college was contesting an order issued in January by the Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB) of the National Medical Commission (NMC), through which the Commission directed the transfer of students from the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 batches to other medical colleges.

For more information, click on the link below:

Repeated failure to fulfil NMC norms: Medical College slapped Rs 10 lakh fine for ‘Misleading’ High Court


NMC specifies recognized PG faculty-to-student ratios in medical colleges

Releasing the Minimum Standard Requirements for Postgraduate Courses (PGMSR) 2024, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has specified the ratio of recognized Post-graduate faculty to the number of students to be admitted for the PG broad speciality and super-speciality courses.

According to the guidelines issued by the Postgraduate Medical Education Board (PGMEB) of the NMC, for Government Colleges and Non-Government Colleges/ Medical Institutions with 15 years of standing (where PG medical courses have been running since10 years), the Professor/ Associate Prof as Unit Head/ Associate Professor to student ratio is 1:3 and in case of other non-government colleges, this ratio is 1:2.

For more information, click on the link below:

NMC specifies Recognised PG faculty-to-student ratio in Medical Colleges


Implement provisions to prevent sexual harassment of women at Workplace: NMC reiterates NHRC directions for medical colleges

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has once again directed the medical colleges/institutes across the country to strictly adhere to the National Human Rights Commission’s (NHRC) directions of implementing the provisions of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Work Place (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act, 2013).

Complying with these provisions the medical colleges are required to constitute the Internal Complaint Committees (ICCs), Local Committees (LCs), Internal Committees (ICs) at an appropriate level and the same should be displayed on the website of the Organization.

For more information, click on the link below:

Implement provisions to prevent Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace: NMC reiterates NHRC directions for medical colleges

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MAMC Doctors perform O Ri Chiraiyaa as tribute to all daughters of India

New Delhi: To bring together feelings of solidarity, and reform after the tragic passing of a PG Trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College Hospital in Kolkata—an incident that deeply affected both the medical fraternity and the nation, Confluence, the music society of Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC) paid tribute to the memory of the deceased medico, who was cherished by her family and symbolized all daughters in the country, by performing the poignant song, ‘O Ri Chiraiyya.’

This initiative was supported by Prof Pawanindra Lal, the esteemed Director Professor and Head of the Department of Surgery of MAMC who performed the song alongside fellow doctors from the medical college. The participating singers included Dr Arnav Upadhyay, Dr Aashray Gupta, Dr Mridula Garg, Dr Sankalpa Keshari, Dr Hardik Verma, Dr Sachit Taneja, Dr Poorna Juneja, and Dr Shekhar Kalra.

The song, “O Ri Chiraiyya,” powerfully captures the turmoil that the country has been grappling with, highlighting the need for citizens to stand in unity, solidarity, and with a passion to push for reform. It also describes the ongoing struggles faced by our nation, especially concerning the safety and rights of women. The song is not just a musical performance but acts as a call to action to unit together paying tribute to every daughter of India. 


“Giving a tribute to every daughter of India, we stand for workplace safety, and the safety of women everywhere!” – said the Confluence, the music society of MAMC expressing their concern for the women’s safety in our nation through their song.

Speaking to Medical Dialogues, Prof Pawanindra Lal said “This is to show concern of the medical community towards the recent alleged rape and murder of a postgraduate doctor that everyone witnessed. We are all concerned for the safety of women and girls in medical institutions, public spaces and workplaces. Through this beautiful song ‘O Ri Chiraiyya’ by Ram Sampath and Swanand Kirkire- we thought that it brought out the right emotions amongst all of us and to prevent and take steps so that such incidents do not occur in the future. We want this to become not just a movement that is limited to medical institutions instead a moment for women across the nation. Their safety is a necessity for the entire country. All parents, relatives and everyone would want their children to remain safe wherever they work or go. This is exactly what we are trying to aware others through this beautiful song.”

O Ri Chiraiya is dedicated to all those girls who did not get a chance to live in this world. This is the song from the very first episode of Satyamev Jayate where Aamir Khan deals with a critical issue of female foeticide in India.

Medical Dialogues has been extensively reporting the critical issue of women’s safety and the voice raised by the medical fraternity over the unfortunate death of the doctor at RG Kar Medical College Hospital since August 9 after her half-naked body was recovered from the seminar hall of the hospital. A preliminary autopsy report has indicated sexual abuse before she was killed.

As per the inquest report, there was bleeding from the doctor’s eyes and mouth, injury on the face and nails, bleeding from her genitals, and several other injury marks on different parts of her body. Soon after the news of this horrific incident came to light, doctors across the country started a massive protest demanding justice. Although doctors from most of the state called off the strike after an appeal by the Supreme Court and assurances from the central government over their safety at all hospitals, resident doctors of RG Kar hospital are still protesting for justice of the doctor. 

Also read- Kolkata doctor death case: PGIMS resident doctors to continue strike over workplace safety

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Punjab and Haryana High Court denies Bail to quack accused of causing patient death by wrong treatment

Chandigarh: The Punjab and Haryana
High Court recently denied bail to an unlicensed medical practitioner accused
of causing the death of a man in 2022 due to improper treatment. The decision, delivered by Justice Namit Kumar, highlighted that the investigation revealed that
the accused had been practicing medicine without the professional
qualifications required by law.

According to the court, his
actions extended beyond negligent medical treatment. After the victim, passed
away, he allegedly attempted to destroy evidence by discarding the body near a
paying guest accommodation in Gurugram’s Manesar area.

Also Read:Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: CBI files FIR against RG Kar ex-principal

The incident came to
light when the uncle of the deceased reported that his wrongful treatment had
led to his nephew’s death. Since his nephew had died in suspicious
circumstances, he made a request to the police to conduct the
post-mortem. After the post-mortem, he saw CCTV footage at the paying guest facility which revealed that his nephew had a fever. He was getting himself
treated by the accused doctor of Alam Clinic in the village of Aliyar.

On 26.09.2022 also his nephew had gone to the
doctor and he alleged that his nephew had died due to the wrong treatment given, the accused along with his friend had kept the dead body on
the road near the paying guest facility. It was also alleged that the accused
does not have any professional degree and an FIR was lodged under the same
charges.

Learned Senior counsel
for the petitioner inter alia contended that the petitioner was innocent and
had been falsely implicated in the present case. He submitted that the
petitioner had just administered a Monosef Injection 500 mg to the deceased,
which is an anti-biotic. He submitted that the deceased had died a natural
death as per the post-mortem report dated 28.09.2022. He further stated that
the cause of death in this case is ‘Asphyxia’ due to blockage of respiratory passages.
He argued that the deceased seems to have died on account of food
particles/vomit particles, which got struck in his throat/veins, which resulted
in destructing the breathing passage of his body and he succumbed to death and
no injury whatsoever has been found on the body of deceased.

The petitioner (accused
in the case) submitted that there is no material on record to suggest that the
petitioner had guilty intuition to commit the alleged offense, therefore, no
motive is attributed to him, which is an essential ingredient of Section
304(ii) IPC (culpable homicide not amounting to murder). It was also contended
that the petitioner has been in custody for the last 1 year and 9 months and that two
of the prosecution witnesses have not supported the prosecution’s case.

The learned State counsel
has opposed the prayer for the grant of regular bail to the petitioner on the
ground that the petitioner was practising as a doctor without holding any
professional degree, as required by law and he had administered an injection to
the deceased after which he succumbed to death. He further submitted that the
petitioner along with the co-accused had thrown the dead body of the deceased on
the road in front of the shop, in order to destroy the evidence, therefore, he
does not deserve the concession of regular bail.

Also Read:MBBS Admission Fraud: Court rejects bail plea of former prez of Maharashtra Education Society in Rs 65.7 crore money laundering case

“It is to be seen
by the trial court as to whether the petitioner was a registered medical
practitioner or not and running his clinic or not, by way of evidence to be
adduced before the trial Court. Concededly, a person has lost his life,”
the Court said after considering the submissions.

“Despite the
existence of laws and regulations, many individuals practice medicine without
proper qualifications or registration, putting patient’s lives at risk and
consequence thereof, misdiagnosis and improper treatment leading to worsening
of patient conditions. They are a menace to public health in India”, it
added.

Stating that a person who
committed an offence under section 304 Part-ll IPC, is liable to be awarded
imprisonment for up to ten years and the period of custody undergone by the
petitioner is only 1 year 9 months, and 29 days as of now, the bench has denied
regular bail to the accused. The High Court’s refusal
to grant bail underscores the severity of the charges against Faheem and raises
broader concerns about the dangers posed by unqualified individuals practicing
medicine without proper credentials.  

To view the order, click on the link below:

https://medicaldialogues.in/pdf_upload/mohammadfaheemvstateofharyana-249553.pdf

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AIIMS Bhopal Launches MSc Program in Translational Medicine

Bhopal: AIIMS Bhopal has
introduced an MSc course in Translational Medicine, a postgraduate
program aimed at bridging the gap between laboratory research and its practical
application in clinical settings. The program officially commenced this month, reflecting the institute’s commitment to advancing medical education and
research.

During an interaction
with the inaugural batch of students on August 24, 2024, Prof. (Dr.) Ajai
Singh, Executive Director of AIIMS Bhopal, emphasized the program’s importance
and stated, “The introduction of the MSc in Translational Medicine
marks a significant milestone in our commitment to advancing medical education
and research. This program is tailored to nurture future leaders who will drive
innovation and translate research findings into tangible healthcare
improvements.”

As per a recent media
report by The Pioneer, Prof. Singh further highlighted the institute’s
dedication to fostering a robust research environment. “AIIMS Bhopal is
dedicated to creating a new generation of medical professionals who are not
only skilled researchers but also visionary leaders capable of translating
their work into real-world medical advancements. This program reflects our
commitment to shaping the future of healthcare through education and
research” Prof Singh added.

Dr.
Rupinder Kaur Kanwar, Head of the Department of Translational Medicine
explained the whole structure stating, “Our curriculum is meticulously
crafted to provide students with a holistic understanding of the translational
research process. We aim to produce skilled professionals capable of bridging
the gap between bench and bedside, ultimately contributing to enhanced patient
care.”

Also Read:From Colonial to Indian Legacy: Health Ministry asks AIIMS, INIs to Design Appropriate Dress Code for Convocation Ceremony

The M.Sc. in
Translational Medicine at AIIMS Bhopal is an interdisciplinary program that
integrates biomedical research, clinical sciences, and healthcare policy. It is
crafted to foster creativity and practical solutions in medicine, preparing
students to address complex medical challenges and contribute to the
advancement of healthcare practices both in India and globally, reports the daily. 

Key features of the
program include interdisciplinary training, cutting-edge research
opportunities, extensive clinical collaboration, and guidance from experienced
multidisciplinary faculty. The program aims to equip students with the skills
needed to translate scientific discoveries into effective medical practices and
therapies, ultimately improving health outcomes. This initiative
underscores AIIMS Bhopal’s commitment to shaping the future of healthcare
through education, research, and innovation.

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Brain dead woman gives new life to five with organ, tissue donation

On the morning of 15th August, 72-year-old Ms Kavita Rajkumar Goel, was found unconscious in her house. Her family immediately rushed her to HCMCT Manipal Hospital, Dwarka.

Ms Kavita was resuscitated and placed on the ventilator. An urgent CT scan of head revealed massive brain hemorrhage. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, her condition deteriorated rapidly and she was declared brain.

For more information, click on the link below:

72-year-old brain-dead woman gives new life to five with organ, tissue donation at HCMCT Manipal Hospital


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