It was once a distant scientific debate. Today, climate change has become one of the greatest public health emergencies of the 21st century. For millions, its impacts are already here — not just through melting glaciers or rising sea levels, but through rising hospital admissions, breathless children, and deadly heatwaves.

The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that between 2030 and 2050, climate change may cause an additional 250,000 deaths annually due to malnutrition, malaria, diarrhoea, and heat stress. But numbers alone cannot capture the reality many communities now face.

Take the searing summers across India. Each year, heatwaves grow longer and more intense, pushing vulnerable populations — the elderly, outdoor workers, pregnant women — beyond their physical limits. Heat exhaustion, kidney failure, heart attacks: these are not future threats; they are today’s emergencies.

Then there is the air we breathe. In 2020 alone, air pollution claimed an estimated 1.3–1.67 million lives in India, according to the Global Burden of Disease Report. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) silently infiltrates lungs, fueling a surge in asthma, chronic respiratory diseases, strokes, and lung cancer.

Meanwhile, mosquitoes are finding new homes. As rainfall patterns shift and temperatures rise, vector-borne diseases like dengue, chikungunya, malaria, and Japanese encephalitis have spread to new regions. Changing climates have extended breeding seasons and altered transmission patterns, leaving public health systems scrambling to adapt.

But it doesn’t stop there. Climate change fuels floods and erratic rainfall, contaminating water sources and leading to outbreaks of cholera, typhoid, and diarrheal diseases. These illnesses disproportionately affect children, pregnant women, and the poor — groups with the least capacity to cope.

COVID-19 revealed just how interconnected health, environment, and global systems truly are. A tiny virus crossing from animals to humans paralyzed the world, underscoring the fragile balance at the human-animal-environment interface. The pandemic reignited global attention on the One Health approach — a collaborative model recognizing that human health is inseparable from the health of animals and the environment.

In response, India has embraced this integrated vision with One Health Framework and National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH). Both led by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) and National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), they build integrated surveillance, adaptation, and response capacity.

The One Health Framework brings together diverse ministries — Health, Environment, Agriculture, Fisheries — along with scientific bodies like ICMR and ICAR. Surveillance systems now track zoonotic diseases across humans, animals, and wildlife. Thousands of healthcare workers, veterinarians, and wildlife professionals have been trained to detect and respond to emerging threats.

Launched in 2019, India’s NPCCHH strengthens climate-resilient healthcare. Over 10,000 healthcare workers trained; surveillance expanded to 500+ districts; State and District Action Plans are active nationwide. Green healthcare initiatives like solar-powered hospitals and real-time early warning systems help protect vulnerable populations from climate-sensitive diseases.

Yet challenges remain. Fragmented policies, limited coordination, and underfunded systems slow progress. The economic cost is staggering: pollution alone drains nearly 2% of India’s GDP each year in lost productivity and healthcare costs.

No Indian state consistently ranks high across environment, health, and development indicators — a stark reminder that isolated efforts won’t suffice. Only coordinated, data-driven action can truly build climate-resilient health systems.

As India leads global conversations under its G20 presidency with the theme “One Earth, One Family, One Future,” the message is clear: climate change is not only about saving polar bears or distant islands. It’s about saving lives today — in our cities, villages, and homes.

The health of our people and our planet are deeply entwined. The time for integrated, bold action is now.

The International Day of Yoga, celebrated annually on June 21, reflects the world’s recognition of yoga’s profound contributions to human health and well-being. Officially proclaimed by the United Nations in 2014 with the support of 177 countries, this global event was first observed in 2015. For 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the theme "Yoga for One Earth, One Health," highlighting the vital link between personal wellness and planetary health, also been endorsed by the United Nations. This theme emphasizes how caring for one’s own health fosters mindfulness towards the environment, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable world.

Originating in India thousands of years ago, yoga is far more than a physical exercise regimen; it is a comprehensive way of life that harmonizes the mind, body, and spirit. The term "Yoga" derives from the ancient Sanskrit word “yuj,” meaning “to unite,” symbolizing the union of the self with nature, society, and the broader universe. The practice incorporates asanas (physical postures), pranayama (breathing techniques), and meditation, all of which work synergistically to cultivate physical vitality, emotional balance, and mental clarity.

Unlike many contemporary fitness programs that focus mainly on physical appearance or strength, yoga prioritizes holistic well-being. Mindful movement and breath control improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, support joint health, and enhance organ function. Meditation and breathing practices reduce stress, lower cortisol levels, stabilize emotions, and promote better sleep and concentration. This comprehensive approach has led to yoga's widespread global adoption, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries.

A growing body of scientific research has validated yoga’s benefits in the prevention and management of several chronic health conditions. Studies have demonstrated that yoga can alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, chronic pain, insomnia, asthma, and arthritis. In oncology, yoga has been shown to support patients undergoing cancer treatment by improving energy levels, emotional resilience, and overall well-being.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has acknowledged yoga’s global relevance and actively supports its safe, evidence-based practice. The establishment of the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine (GCTM) in Jamnagar, India, serves as a global hub for research, standards, and policy development in traditional medicine, including yoga. WHO’s Yoga Training Benchmarks, partnerships with India’s Ministry of AYUSH, and the development of the mYoga App ensure standardized, accessible, and high-quality yoga resources worldwide.

Furthermore, integrating yoga with its ancient sister science Ayurveda offers a holistic and comprehensive approach to health. While Ayurveda provides guidance on diet, daily routines, and herbal remedies, yoga complements these practices by fostering self-awareness, emotional stability, and inner harmony. Together, they address not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of disease, promoting sustained wellness.

As we celebrate International Day of Yoga 2025, the message of “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” carries profound significance. In an era marked by rising chronic diseases, mental health challenges, and environmental crises, yoga offers a timeless path to balance and resilience. By embracing yoga's enduring wisdom, individuals can foster personal transformation while contributing to a healthier planet for current and future generations.

A day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of voluntary blood donation and expressing gratitude to those who give the gift of life. In many low- and middle-income countries, over 75% of patients with transfusion-dependent conditions like thalassaemia do not receive the regular, safe blood they need.

Blood Shortage & Unequal Access

1.  Huge Global Disparities

• In 2025, high-income countries collect about 40% of the world’s 118 million annual donations.
• Blood donation rates differ widely: 31.5/1,000 people in high-income countries, but just 5/1,000 in low-income countries
•  

2.  Situation in India

·  The estimated national clinical requirement is:

14.6 million whole blood units annually

Equivalent to 36.3 blood donations per 1,000 eligible population

However, actual collection falls short. With an average donation rate of 33.8 per 1,000, the annual shortfall is around 1 million units.

• Many regions remain blood deserts, with availability as low as 0.6 units per 1,000 population, leading to poor emergency response .
•  

Hence , donating blood might seem like a small act—but it sets off a life-saving chain of events.

Once donated, your blood is:

• Tested for infections,
• Separated into components like red cells, platelets, and plasma,
• Stored under strict conditions,
• And finally, delivered to a patient who urgently needs it—such as someone undergoing surgery, treatment for cancer, severe anaemia, trauma, or childbirth complications.
•  

The Journey from Donor to Patient

When you roll up your sleeve to donate blood, you trigger a well-coordinated and life-saving process that delivers your generosity directly to patients in need.

1. Pre-Donation Screening & Collection

As outlined by the Red Cross and other blood services, the process begins with a quick health check and confidential medical history review to ensure you’re eligible to donate.
Once cleared, blood is:

• Collected in a sterile bag,
• Barcoded for tracking,
• Temporarily stored on ice, and
• Sent for processing and testing.

 Each donation typically yields one unit of whole blood, which is later separated into components like red cells, platelets, and plasma—maximizing the impact of your gift.

2. Ensuring Safety: Rigorous Testing

Every unit of blood is tested for safety. This includes:

• Blood type confirmation,
• Screening for infectious diseases such as HIV, hepatitis B and C and syphilis
• Antibody screening for compatibility.
•  

If any infectious disease test is positive, the blood is safely discarded and the donor is confidentially notified. All results are electronically processed—often within 24 hours—and linked to the barcode on the donation bag.

3. Storage and Distribution

Once cleared, the blood is stored under component-specific conditions:

• Red blood cells: refrigerated at 1–6°C for up to 42 days,
• Platelets: stored at room temperature (20–24°C) with agitation for up to 5–7 days,
• Plasma: frozen at –18°C or colder and can last up to 1 year.
•  

These are dispatched to hospitals based on real-time need—whether for emergency surgeries, trauma, or planned transfusions.

4. Reaching the Patient and Who benefits

Your blood finally reaches someone in need—often during a critical moment.

Red Blood Cells

Used to treat:

• Anaemia (including from chronic diseases or nutritional deficiencies)
• Heavy blood loss from trauma, surgery, or childbirth
• Blood disorders like thalassaemia or sickle cell anaemia
•  

Platelets
Crucial for patients who:

• Are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, which reduce platelet counts
• Have bleeding disorders like ITP or aplastic anaemia
• Need organ transplants, to help prevent bleeding during surgery
•  

Plasma
Used in patients with:

• Liver disease or clotting disorders, where clotting factors are deficient
• Severe burns, where plasma helps restore blood volume
• Massive transfusion needs during disasters, accidents, or surgeries
•  

Doctors match the blood type and component to the patient's condition to ensure safe transfusion.

One donation can help save up to 3 lives.

How You Can Make a Difference

1. Donate Regularly

You can donate blood every 3 months (12 weeks) if you're a man, or every 4 months (16 weeks) if you're a woman — as recommended by the WHO. Setting a reminder ensures you stay healthy and help maintain a steady blood supply.

 2. Talk About It

Start conversations. Share facts with friends, family, or on social media about why blood donation matters. Your voice can inspire others to take action.

3. Organize or Join a Blood Drive

Bring donation opportunities closer to home, work, or college. Ask your organization to host a mobile blood drive. It makes donating easier and increases turnout.

4. Use Apps or Reminders

Sign up for donation alerts through SMS, email, or health apps. Regular prompts can help you stay on schedule — and studies show this can increase donations by up to 30%.

5. Be a Lifelong Donor

Make donating blood a habit. Just one unit can save up to 3 lives. Imagine the impact over a lifetime!

Thyroid disorders are one of the most common endocrine issues affecting women, yet they remain significantly underdiagnosed and under-discussed — particularly in the context of reproductive health. Conditions like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are up to 8 to 10 times more common in women than in men, with key life stages such as puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause acting as hormonal triggers.

Many symptoms — such as fatigue, weight fluctuations, mood changes, irregular periods, or difficulty conceiving — are misattributed to stress, PCOS, or general lifestyle factors or even early menopause — especially in younger women navigating work-life pressures or postpartum recovery.

What many don’t realize is that thyroid hormones are closely tied to the reproductive system. They influence everything from menstrual regularity and ovulation to fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) can lead to heavy or irregular periods, difficulty conceiving, and even increase the risk of miscarriages or premature births. Hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid), on the other hand, may cause lighter or missed periods and exacerbate anxiety or insomnia.

There’s a growing body of evidence suggesting that undiagnosed thyroid issues can significantly impact mental health — contributing to chronic fatigue, brain fog, irritability, and even depression. In India, where conversations around mental wellness are just beginning to gain ground, the thyroid’s role in mood and emotional regulation is still largely misunderstood.

Add to this the influence of lifestyle misinformation — from fad diets to supplement culture — and many women unknowingly worsen their thyroid function in pursuit of “wellness.” I frequently see patients who have self-medicated with iodine drops, selenium supplements, or extreme diet plans after encountering poorly researched advice online.

At Holy Family Hospital, we are increasingly advocating for routine thyroid screening as part of women’s preventive healthcare, especially during key hormonal milestones — puberty, conception planning, pregnancy, and postnatal recovery. A simple blood test (TSH, T3, T4) can identify thyroid imbalances early and help prevent a cascade of complications.

Despite this, awareness remains low. Many women visit an endocrinologist only after years of unexplained symptoms or failed fertility treatments. We need to shift this narrative. 

The future of women’s health must include a more integrated approach, where gynecologists, endocrinologists, and mental health professionals collaborate to diagnose and manage thyroid dysfunctions holistically. Early intervention not only improves quality of life but also safeguards long-term heart, bone, and brain health. 

As healthcare providers, we must ensure that thyroid health isn't treated as an isolated issue, but as an integral part of a woman’s overall well-being. And as individuals, we need to listen to our bodies, push for answers, and ask for thyroid testing when symptoms don’t add up.

A recent Instagram survey conducted among working Mumbaikars aged 30 to 55 years has shed light on alarming sleep trends and perceptions in the city that never sleeps. The poll, supported by insights from Dr. Prashant Makhija, Consultant Neurologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, highlights not just the sleep deprivation crisis but also the growing awareness around sleep health.

Key Findings:

1. Majority Are Sleep Deprived

● 63.57% of respondents reported getting less than 6 hours of sleep on weekdays.

● This aligns with global data pointing to urban dwellers compromising sleep due to     work and commute.

Dr. Prashant Makhija explains:
“Sleep deprivation has become rampant in metros like Mumbai. What's alarming is that people recognize six hours as insufficient, yet daily demands prevent them from achieving more.”

2. Noise Pollution Is a Major Disturbance

● 64.23% admitted they struggle to sleep due to Mumbai's noise pollution, such as honking, construction, and loud neighbors.

Dr. Makhija comments:
“Environmental factors like urban noise disrupt circadian rhythms and REM sleep, leading to long-term consequences such as anxiety, hypertension, and weakened immunity.”

3. The Weekend Catch-Up Myth

●   59.62% believe that sleeping extra on weekends compensates for weekday loss.

Dr. Makhija warns:
“This is a common misconception. While you may feel better temporarily, it doesn't reverse the cumulative effects of chronic sleep loss.”

4. The Surprising Reality: Sleep Still Valued

● When asked about pre-bedtime habits, 75.40% preferred a relaxed routine, while only 24.60% scrolled social media.

●  Additionally, 55.74% said they don’t sacrifice sleep for late-night food or social plans.

“This is an encouraging insight,” says Dr. Makhija.
“Despite distractions like social media and nightlife, Mumbaikars do attempt to maintain a sleep-friendly routine. It's just that external pressures interfere.”

5. Snoring Is Still Misunderstood

●  53.23% considered snoring to be normal, reflecting a serious lack of awareness.

● In reality, snoring can be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition with grave health risks.

“People often overlook snoring,” warns Dr. Makhija.
“But it can indicate upper airway obstruction. Left untreated, OSA can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.”

6. Sleep and Health Link: Still Blurry

●Only 52.66% acknowledged the link between inadequate sleep and physical or mental health.

●  Alarmingly, nearly 47% either denied or were unsure of the connection.

Dr. Makhija emphasizes:
“This gap in awareness is concerning. Sleep is not a luxury—it is foundational to brain health, hormonal balance, and emotional regulation.”

7. Stimulants and Coping Mechanisms

●  44.89% reported relying on chai or coffee to stay awake during the day, while the rest managed without caffeine—a surprisingly balanced outcome.

Conclusion: A City That Knows, But Can’t Sleep

The results reveal a city aware of its sleep needs but struggling to meet them due to environmental, social, and occupational stressors. With nearly 2 in 3 respondents being sleep-deprived, it’s evident that public health interventions, noise regulation, and educational efforts are urgently needed.

“It’s time we treat sleep as a pillar of health, not an afterthought,” concludes Dr. Makhija.

Heartiest congratulations to Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji on the historic India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the Double Contribution Convention, a landmark achievement amid global trade uncertainties. At AIMED, we applaud this much-awaited ambitious trade deal that is set to significantly strengthen economic ties between India and the UK, unlocking new opportunities for the medical devices sector through enhanced collaboration, innovation, and streamlined trade processes.

The FTA addresses key challenges in the MedTech sector by reducing customs tariffs on critical medical devices, such as consumables, implants, and diagnostic equipment. It also harmonizes non-tariff barriers, including prolonged regulatory approval processes in the UK, which have historically limited India’s medical device exports.

The agreement fosters innovation by promoting joint R&D initiatives and facilitates technology transfer and the establishment of Centres of Excellence in India, enabling the development of affordable, high-quality medical devices tailored to both markets.

By easing bilateral trade barriers, the deal empowers businesses to export, import, and invest in a more diverse and affordable range of healthcare products.

Indian MedTech exports, valued at $3.8 billion in 2023-24, particularly to the UK, are poised for growth, while UK firms gain improved access to India’s $12 billion medical devices market, projected to reach $50 billion by 2030. 

This FTA not only strengthens the MedTech ecosystem but also sets a template for India’s trade negotiations with other developed nations, driving economic growth and healthcare accessibility.

Dr Rajiv Chhibber, Joint Cordinator AIMED