docTLDR

A new study led by Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals shows regular medical check-ups reduce death risk by 45% and enable early detection of chronic diseases. The analysis underscores the need for periodic screenings, especially for those over 40 or with risk factors, to manage NCDs and prevent complications. Gender-specific tests and continuous monitoring are strongly recommended.

A CDC report highlights a significant increase in prescriptions for FDA-approved obesity medications among adolescents, including GLP-1 receptor agonists like liraglutide and semaglutide. This trend underscores the growing adoption of pharmacotherapy in pediatric obesity management, urging Indian clinicians to review evolving guidelines and monitor for long-term safety and efficacy in youth.

Following six patient deaths at SLN Medical College, Koraput, allegedly due to wrong medication, Odisha’s health minister has ordered a high-level probe and promised strict action if negligence is confirmed. The incident spotlights urgent needs for medication safety protocols and staff training in government hospitals.

The Supreme Court will hear the NBE's plea to postpone NEET PG 2025 to August 3, following a directive for a single-shift exam to ensure fairness. Doctors should note that revised dates and logistics will be finalized post-court decision, impacting PG admissions and exam preparations nationwide.

Registered dietitians highlight specialized iron supplements for various conditions including iron deficiency, anemia, pregnancy, and sensitive stomachs. The report emphasizes consulting healthcare providers before supplementation, as excessive iron can cause organ damage. Particularly relevant for addressing India's high prevalence of iron deficiency anemia.

A new ICMR-WHO survey across 19 districts finds only 40% of India's rural sub-centres are equipped to manage hypertension and diabetes. Frequent stock-outs of essential drugs like metformin and amlodipine persist, with median shortages lasting up to seven months. The findings highlight urgent gaps in primary care, risking delayed intervention for non-communicable diseases in rural populations.

Ayushman Bharat reimbursements to over 500 hospitals in Jharkhand have been stalled since February, with some pending for 10 months. Hospitals are suspending services, leaving patients without coverage. The freeze is linked to an ongoing probe into alleged misuse; no payments will be made until its conclusion.

The new 'Ayush Nivesh Saarthi' portal aims to boost investments in India's traditional medicine sector, which is growing at 17% annually. The platform is expected to enhance research, infrastructure, and global competitiveness, offering new opportunities for practitioners and healthcare entrepreneurs.

A new clinical case report details management strategies for aluminium phosphide poisoning, particularly relevant in India where it remains a common method of self-harm. The protocol outlines treatment approaches for phosphine gas exposure and provides guidance for emergency physicians managing these critical cases.

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has notified retail prices for 41 new drugs, ensuring broader access and affordability for Indian patients. This update is crucial for prescribers, as it impacts drug choices and cost discussions, especially for chronic and high-burden conditions.

A newly published case report documents a rare spontaneous clitoral and periclitoral abscess, providing Indian gynecologists with valuable diagnostic and management insights for this uncommon but clinically significant condition that requires prompt recognition and appropriate intervention.

Valneva’s single-dose chikungunya vaccine, IXCHIQ, demonstrated robust six-month antibody persistence and safety in children aged 1–11 in Phase 2 trials. With India’s endemic risk, this vaccine could soon offer long-term protection for pediatric populations, pending pivotal Phase 3 results and regulatory review.

The collaboration aims to accelerate development and commercialization of a biosimilar for Keytruda (pembrolizumab), potentially expanding access to this critical immunotherapy for Indian cancer patients at lower costs.

UK DANTE trial reveals that reducing immunotherapy treatment duration for advanced melanoma did not significantly impact disease control compared to longer regimens, potentially informing Indian oncologists' treatment protocols and reducing patient burden.

39-year-old mother of two documents her experience with HER2-positive breast cancer, highlighting challenges during chemotherapy and the importance of completing treatment despite severe side effects. Her story emphasizes the value of support networks and finding ways to celebrate milestones in the cancer journey.