Apollo Proton Cancer Centre (APCC) has launched the Apollo Rectal Cancer (ARC) Programme – India’s pioneering approach dedicated to rectal cancer management. With a focus on rectal preservation and powered by advanced technologies including chemoradiotherapy, proton therapy, and robotic surgery, the ARC programme aims to revolutionize the treatment of rectal cancer in the country. This unique initiative addresses the specialized needs of rectal cancer patients, providing comprehensive and multidisciplinary care to ensure the best possible outcomes.The ARC programme center was inaugurated by Dr. Prathap C Reddy, Founder and Chairman, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd. (AHEL), in the presence of Mr. Harshad Reddy, Director – Group Oncology & International (AHEL). The programme will be led by Dr. Venkatesh Munikrishnan (Lead), Consultant Colorectal & Robotic Surgeon, Dr Senthil Ganapathi, Senior Consultant Colorectal Surgeon, Dr Sudeepta Kumar Swain, Consultant-Surgical Gastroenterology and Dr Bala Murugan Srinivasan, Consultant- Surgical Gastroenterology.The ARC Programme sets the stage for rectal cancer management as India’s only quaternary care centre for rectal cancer, offering an integrated multidisciplinary care for rectal cancer for patients from the Indian subcontinent and afar. Taking a 360-degree approach, the programme addresses the spectrum of rectal cancer complexities, including significant polyps, early rectal cancer, organ preservation, robotic rectal cancer surgery, and the treatment of peritoneal surface malignancies with heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).The programme follows a unique patient pathway, providing total neo-adjuvant therapy with chemoradiation and immunotherapy, with patients who achieve complete response entering the wait and watch programme. Patients with down staged or residual disease may also be offered advanced robotic surgery with a comprehensive follow-up protocol established to address any potential recurrence, ensuring continuous care and support beyond treatment.The Apollo Robotic Rectal Cancer Surgery Programme is committed to achieving outstanding patient outcomes, showcasing remarkable low resection margin positivity rates, nodal harvest rates, and minimal anastomotic leak rates. With a focus on minimizing wound infections and reducing the length of hospital stays and readmissions, the programme demonstrates a distinguished standard in rectal cancer surgery.Dr Prathap C Reddy, Founder- Chairman, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd, said, “This groundbreaking initiative underscores our commitment to innovation and transformative cancer care in the country & globally. This is the first time in India, we have a subspecialized team of surgeons in rectal cancer surgery who will only be involved with the management of a single organ and a single type of cancer: rectal cancer. This is going to set the global benchmark of how rectal cancer will be managed in the future. Our innovative technologies continually reshape the Oncology landscape, driven by an integrative approach that combines domestic excellence and international collaborations.”Mr Harshad Reddy, Director – Group Oncology & International, Apollo Hospitals, said, “The launch of the Apollo Rectal Cancer Programme marks a significant milestone in our commitment to advancing cancer care in India. This innovative and specialized approach reflects our dedication to providing the best possible treatment options for patients with rectal cancer, ensuring access to world-class care and achieving optimal patient outcomes. India faces a mounting burden of rectal cancer, with a forecasted 80% increase in numbers within the next decade. In response to this pressing need, this Programme stands as a pioneering initiative to provide accessible and comprehensive rectal cancer care, elevating India’s capabilities in managing this complex disease.”Dr. Venkatesh Munikrishnan, Consultant Colorectal & Robotic Surgeon, Apollo Proton Cancer Centres, who has performed the highest volumes of robotic colorectal cancer surgeries in India said, “The Apollo Rectal Cancer Programme is a testament to our unwavering commitment to enhancing the management of rectal cancer in India. The aim of this programme is to offer every possible treatment option for our patients with rectal cancer to preserve their rectum with advanced chemoradiotherapy protocols or for persistent disease – removing the residual tumour and reconstructing them with advanced robotic surgical techniques thus preventing a permanent bag or colostomy. We are proud to lead this initiative and set a new benchmark in rectal cancer management and show the path of subspecialization in rectal cancer surgery.”At Apollo Proton Cancer Centres, the commitment towards advancing cancer care is underscored with the launch of organ-specific treatments. With this launch, APCC is setting a new benchmark to introduce the Apollo Rectal Cancer Programme, aimed at reshaping the landscape of rectal cancer care in India.

KOLKATA, December 22, 2021:  For the first time in Eastern India, the Gastro team led by Dr Mahesh Kumar Goenka at Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals brings Power Spiral Enteroscopy, the latest and safest process to investigate and treat gastrointestinal tract diseases. This motorised type of endoscope would ease the process of endoscopy of small intestine and can be inserted through oral route as well as through rectum.  While being safe, it is also a very effective technique for management and detection of small bowel pathology. On this note, Dr Surinder Singh Bhatia, DMS-Eastern Region, Apollo Hospitals Group, said, “Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals, Kolkata, continues to be the leader in bringing in new technologies and performing path-breaking procedures. Our committed clinicians, with the help of this state-of-the-art technology, would help many needing gastro interventions.”Small intestine is a 20 feet long part of gastrointestinal tract which is site of common diseases like Tuberculosis, Crohn’s disease, Drug induced ulcers, Vascular malformation etc. Till 20 years back, it was inaccessible by endoscope. Capsule Endoscopy and Balloon assisted enteroscopy have been developed but have the disadvantage of difficult and tiring manoeuvrability.In order to make the entire procedure easy for the patients and to aid doctors, Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals, Kolkata, has recently introduced Power Spiral Enteroscopy, a motorised type of endoscope equipped with a special motor. On this Dr Mahesh Kumar Goenka, Director, Institute of Gastrosciences and Liver, Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals, Kolkata said, “This technique of endoscopic evaluation of the small bowel allows inspection of this 20-ft long small intestine with the pressing of a foot paddle just like driving a car with steering, accelerator and a break. It not only aids in treating complex conditions in the small intestine but also improves diagnosis and patient outcomes for chronic and complex intestinal conditions.”The PowerSpiral allows for fast and gentle access to reach deep into the gastrointestinal tract by pleating the small bowel onto the enteroscope using a spiral segment. This is achieved via an integrated motor, which rotates the single-use PowerSpiral cover tube that is equipped with soft spiral-shaped fins that gently follow the mucosa. The enhanced insertion speed, easy advancement, controlled withdrawal- and improved manoeuvrability can substantially reduce the overall procedure time and allow time for effective treatment. The motorized advancement, combined with the soft fins of the spiral segment, enables smooth, safe and deep insertion as well as excellent manoeuvrability, making it possible to see the entire intestinal lumen. All of these combined features make it easier to penetrate deep into the small bowel.The gentle grip on the mucosa between the soft fins of the spiral segment enables precise positioning of the endoscope. The integrated water jet keeps the view clear throughout the process. Thanks to the conventional endoscope channel, PowerSpiral allows for efficient interventions with a broad range of endotherapeutic devices. Due to the improved overall manoeuvrability, lesions may be reached more quickly. The first study results demonstrated that procedure times with the Power Spiral endoscope may be substantially reducedBenefits: Complete inspection of small intestineRapidSafePainlessCan be used for obtaining biopsyCan treat small intestinal diseasesPower spiral can be used for taking biopsy, removing small tumors, dilating narrowing, removing foreign body and stopping bleeding. The entire process is not only complete but also very fast compared to earlier techniques and also safe because of its inherent safety devices. The procedure is done under sedation and is therefore pain-free.

Breast cancer radiation treatment now can be given in only 1 week instead of 3 to 5 weeksKolkata, 12 November 2021: Apollo Cancer Centre launches fast forward Breast Cancer radiation therapy in West Bengal region. The existing treatment process for breast cancer takes almost six to eight months to complete including chemo, radiation and other treatments. With the help of latest technology, breast cancer radiation treatment now can be given in just one week instead of 3 to 5 weeks.Based on the Fast forward trial in the UK (with 4,096 patients) the treatment was successfully given to a group of patients in Kolkata by Dr Sayan Paul, Senior Radiation Oncologist, ACC Kolkata.Breast cancer is a type of cancer which can be cured completely if treated properly and detected early. Most breast cancer patients need surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy altogether as a curative treatment. It takes almost six to eight months or even a year to complete the treatment. Radiation therapy is an integral part of breast cancer treatment and almost all patients need it. The conventional schedule was of five weeks which has been reduced to three weeks based on a big UK trial called START trial. This is mostly practised in leading cancer centers in India. But now it can be further reduced to one week.Elaborating on the issue Dr Sayan Paul, Senior Radiation Oncologist, Apollo Cancer Centre, Kolkata, said “Recently a large trial has been published from the UK called Fast forward trial where they have shown that one-week radiation treatment is equally effective and the side effects are also not much. This is a blessing for Breast cancer patients because visiting the hospital every day for 15 days is not very comfortable for a cancer patient. Moreover, in this COVID pandemic situation, it will be helpful for cancer patients if we can reduce their hospital visits. This also significantly reduces the logistics cost including stay and travel. As Radiation facility is available only in the big cities in India patients need to travel to distant places for radiation and the cost of travel and stay is significant.”On this occasion, Dr Surinder Singh Bhatia, Director Medical Services, Eastern Region, said “At Apollo Cancer Centre we are always on the lookout for improving patient care by making optimum use of technology. It has been our mission to give ‘Tender Loving Care’ to our patients as holistically as possible whilst also taking into account the latest innovations in the field of onco care. We hope that with the introduction of the one-week radiation therapy for breast cancer patients, we can treat patients more effectively and efficiently.”Dr Paul has already started this one-week treatment for a selected group of patients as per the Fast forward trial criteria. This treatment protocol will be very comfortable for breast cancer patients; especially those travelling from far-off areas and other countries to get their radiation in cancer hospitals as Radiation facilities are available only in selected big cities; although chemotherapy facility is available in many smaller towns. In West Bengal, radiation facilities are available only in Siliguri and Kolkata. Therefore, patients from different districts have to travel to Kolkata and stay there for their treatment. This one-week treatment will reduce their expenditure on stay and food significantly.Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC) recently launched its breast awareness campaign – The Best Breast Examiner for You is YOU, to commemorate the Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This campaign by Apollo Cancer Centres illustrates the importance of regular self-breast examination and screening. It is an initiative by Apollo Cancer Centres to create a movement to educate and empower every woman to be her own breast examiner.

The most effective cure for AsthmaKOLKATA, March 15, 2022: Apollo Multispecialty Hospitals Kolkata first time in Eastern India launched Bronchial Thermoplasty, a painless procedure for effective treatment of severe asthma. The treatment uses a catheter, which is inserted through the windpipe to deliver heat. This heat is targeted to the smooth muscles of the lungs so that those muscles shrink and can’t get tightened to cause asthma symptoms anymore. The procedure typically needs three sittings with a gap of three weeks between each sitting.Bronchial Thermoplasty was performed at Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals, Kolkata, on two patients on March 14, 2022. Post-procedure, the patients are stable.Dr Debraj Jash, Consultant Pulmonologist at Apollo Multispecialty Hospitals Kolkata, who performed both the procedures, said, “In India, a significant proportion of the population suffers from severe asthma. As a result, Bronchial Thermoplasty is an effective treatment for non-allergic asthma. It was a real challenge to introduce this procedure in the eastern part of the country.”About 300 million people in the world suffer from asthma out of which about 5-10% people are the ones who get hospitalised due the severity of the disease. If the problem persists for such patients even after using inhaler with correct medicines and procedure for 2-3 months, then they need to go for Pulmonary Function Test. If either of IGE or Eosinophil is low in the result, only then they can go for this treatment.Dr Sushil Agarwal, Consultant Pulmonologist, Apollo Multispecialty Hospitals Kolkata said, “Internationally, Bronchial Thermoplasty is a huge saviour for severe asthma patients and we hope that it’s the same here. Post Bronchial Thermoplasty people are relieved and get back to normal life without regular asthma attacks disrupting their schedule.”On the occasion of the launch of the procedure, Mr Rana Dasgupta, CEO-Eastern Region, Apollo Hospitals Group, said, “Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals, Kolkata, continues to be the leader in bringing in new technologies and performing path-breaking procedures. Our committed clinicians, with the help of this state-of-the-art technology, would help many asthma patients.”

In a poignant exploration of life post-cancer, Apollo Cancer Centres (ACCs) proudly introduces ‘Unmask Cancer,’ a groundbreaking campaign aimed at unravelling the truth about cancer, dispelling myths, and fostering empathy within the society. As World Cancer Day approaches, ACCs takes a bold step to address the unfortunate reality of discrimination faced by cancer winners.‘Unmask Cancer’ is the journey of cancer winners who, despite showcasing exceptional skills and qualifications, grapples with the societal biases stemming from their cancer history. The campaign sheds light on the pervasive fear of prejudice, pushing individuals to conceal this vital aspect of their lives, thus echoing the experiences of countless others facing discrimination.The ‘Unmask Cancer’ initiative unveils a thought-provoking social experiment video that delves into the profound consequences of discrimination across various facets of life. Featuring individuals from diverse backgrounds, including societal, corporate, and appearance-related biases, the video culminates with only a few brave cancer winners unmasking themselves due to the support they received from their families and friends.To create awareness and drive a meaningful change within the society including the corporate world, ACCs takes ‘Unmask Cancer’ initiative to the corporate sector and society at large. In addition, a Cancer Sensitization Session led by oncologists and survivors will be introduced. The session will provide an opportunity to understand the disease and break the stigma, and nurture empathy. With an aim to empower participants and enthusiasts with practical skills for a positive change in life and within the society, the session will be available both online and offline. This engagement will help in nurturing a culture of equality and empathy among the people.Mr Harshad Reddy, Director, Group Oncology and International, Apollo Hospitals Enterprises Limited, expressed, his commitment to fostering equality and fairness for all, saying, “Our mission at ACC goes beyond providing world-class medical care. We believe in championing the rights of every individual, irrespective of their medical history. ‘Unmask Cancer’ is a testament to our dedication to creating a society that supports and uplifts cancer survivors.”Ms Naveena Kasi, mother of Master Lithin Kumar, said, “Hiding my son’s cancer history due to fear of discrimination was a burden we carried for years. ‘Unmask Cancer’ allowed my son and the family to share our story and inspire others to do the same. It’s time for society to recognize the strength and resilience of cancer survivors.”Dr. Sapna Nangia, Director-Breast, Head & Neck, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, Chennai, emphasizes the significance of this campaign, stating, “Discrimination against cancer survivors not only hampers their professional and personal lives but also poses a significant threat to their mental and emotional well-being. ‘Unmask Cancer’ is an unprecedented approach to sensitize society to this critical issue and pave the way for a more compassionate world.”Dr. Ramya Uppuluriri, Consultant – Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centres, Chennai commented on the occasion, “Our campaign is the need of the hour; ‘Unmask Cancer’ is not just a unique initiative; it’s a commitment to creating a world that champions equality and fairness for all, especially those who have triumphed over cancer.”This initiative serves as a powerful testament to ACCs’ commitment to life beyond cancer treatment. As the campaign unfolds, ‘Unmask Cancer’ promises to initiate a transformative dialogue, sparking empathy and paving the way for a world where cancer survivors can live, unmasked.

 Hyderabad, September 12, 2020: The Liver Transplant team led by Dr Manish Varma, Sr Consultant & HoD, Liver Transplant and HPB surgery, Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, successfully performed an ABO-incompatible Living Donor Liver Transplant on a 19-year-old female patient from Vijayawada, Ms G. Soumya, suffering from a rare disease called Budd-Chiari syndrome. The patient has since recovered fully and is going about with her regular daily routine.On being brought to Apollo Hospitals, she was found to be suffering from severe symptomatic hepatic hydrothorax, a condition due to which she had an excessive accumulation of fluid in the lungs and in the abdomen, leading to swelling in the body with breathing difficulty. On investigation she was found to have cirrhosis due to Budd-Chiari Syndrome, a rare condition caused by blood clots that completely or partially block blood flow from the liver.The patient was suffering from this ailment for the past two years, though she was initially managed with medicines at Vijayawada, her condition worsened with fluid accumulation in the lungs and was virtually threatening her life. She needed repeated withdrawal of fluid from the lungs by needle puncture, once in every ten days. Such patients have a high risk of catching lung infections and it persists till the patient undergoes a transplant.Ms Soumya was on regular follow up with the Liver Transplant Team at Apollo Hospitals for the past 4 months and a liver transplant was advised. As none of her family members had a matching blood group to donate a slice of their liver, she was waiting for a cadaveric organ for a liver transplant for the three months prior to surgery. As her condition was deteriorating rapidly with no hope of a dead donor organ coming her way, she was advised by the Liver Transplant Team at Apollo Hospitals, an ABOi Living Donor Liver Transplantation.Body’s immune system is averse to accepting organ of a different Blood group and rejects such alien tissue. Therefore, the same blood group donors are preferred for organ transplantation. However, ABOi Living Donor Liver Transplantation procedure enables to seek a piece of liver from the available donor irrespective of the blood group they belong to. Also known as mismatched blood group liver transplantation, is a very rarely performed procedure and only very few centres across the world have the expertise in performing this surgery. Even in Telangana, Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, is the only centre performing it.Liver transplantation is the only hope for end-stage liver disease patients, fetching a liver slice from the same blood group living donor is a humongous task, so is cadaver organ with the demand far outstripping supply. The way out for patients on death bed is the ABO-incompatible living donor liver transplantation. With Liver cirrhosis reaching epidemic proportions, ABOi will be a beacon of hope for patients, says Dr Manish VarmaFor Soumya, her mother, though from a different blood group, donated a slice of her liver. The preparation for the surgery started 3 weeks prior with her receiving medicines to minimise chances of rejection. She also underwent multiple sessions of plasmapheresis (dialysis like the procedure for reducing antibodies in the blood). The surgery was performed on the patient on 11th August 2020. The entire operation from the start of donor surgery to the end of recipient surgery took 15 hours. The patient and her mother have since recovered and are doing well. The patient had an uneventful postoperative course and was discharged on 10th day and her mother on the 6th-day post-surgery. 1-month post-surgery she is doing fine, her liver is functioning normally and she has not required any more fluid removal from her lungs. She is presently on blood thinners to prevent blood clot formation in view of previous Budd-Chiari syndrome. The blood thinners will continue for a few more weeks. She will need to be on lifelong medication and regular follow-up, just like all other transplant patients.About Apollo HospitalsIt was in 1983, that Dr. Prathap Reddy made a pioneering endeavour by launching India’s first corporate hospital – Apollo Hospital in Chennai. Now, as Asia largest and most trusted healthcare group, its presence includes 8,488 beds across 51 Hospitals, 1,586 Pharmacies, 92 Primary Care and Diagnostic Clinics, 100 Telemedicine units across 10 countries. Health Insurance services, Global Projects Consultancy, 15 colleges of Nursing and Hospital Management and a Research Foundation with a focus on global Clinical Trials, epidemiological studies, stem cell & genetic research and the first Proton Therapy Centre across Asia, Africa and Australia.In a rare honour, the Government of India issued a commemorative stamp in recognition of Apollo’s contribution, the first for a healthcare organization. Apollo Hospitals Chairman, Dr. Prathap C Reddy, was conferred with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan in 2010. For more than 28 years, the Apollo Hospitals Group has continuously excelled and maintained leadership in medical innovation, world-class clinical services and cutting-edge technology. Our hospitals are consistently ranked amongst the best hospitals globally for advanced medical services and research.

Hyderabad, August 2020: A team of doctors at Apollo Hospitals, accomplished a near miracle by saving a mother and child, from a highly critical health condition. The mother into the 7th month of pregnancy, developed Covid and had to be treated on the ventilator, also to save the baby a pre-term delivery was performed on her despite the mother’s condition. Both were discharged hail and healthy. This was a first of its kind care in this part of the world, where a 7-month preterm baby was delivered from a mother undergoing infertility care while being ventilated for Covid.The 34-year-old patient, Mrs. Manjula married for the last seven years, was undergoing infertility treatment and was into the seventh month of pregnancy. Being a precious delivery for the couple and were longing for a baby, they were seeking the guidance of Dr Sharmila, Sr Consultant Pediatrician at Apollo Hospitals, to avoid later stage medical complications. However recently along with the other members of her family, the mother got infected with Covid and was brought to the hospital on July 15th in a very critical condition.On admission, her condition deteriorated rapidly, and saturation levels were dismally low necessitating ventilator management. There was little hope of her survival medically, as nearly 90% of pregnant women needing ventilation, breath their last or end up delivering stillborn preterm babies.The medical team too had its set of challenges specific to this case:1. Complex hemodynamics of pregnancy and severe Covid infection with high viral load, pulling the medical team at high risk of infection.2. Difficulty in ventilation and the inability to make the patient sleep on her belly, which is a necessity for Covid patients and is done for non-pregnant patients3. Difficulty in performing surgery with the protective (PPE) gear.4. Difficulty in assessing and reviving the baby at birth and the PPE not allowing proper assessment and delicate care babies’ need.The Doctors took these challenges in their stride and were keen to save both the mother and baby, but on a priority wanted to save the mother. During the course of the treatment, the mother stopped responding and chances of her survival seemed slim, the team decided to retrieve at least the baby before the mother succumbs. The baby was delivered on July 17th by operating on the mother, while sustaining her on the ventilator. But the baby too was found to be ill and not responding to resuscitation. The team revived the baby’s heart function with medication, but the risk of it not surviving continued to be high. The baby later developed a bloodstream infection and was treated. The baby gradually recovered, she started responding to the treatment and got better by the day. The fully recovered baby was discharged today. In the meantime, the mother saw a phenomenal recovery and was discharged on August 10th, 2020.

Apollo Proton Cancer Centre (APCC) has inaugurated its groundbreaking Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Head and Neck Cancer. With a comprehensive approach to cancer management and cutting-edge technologies, APCC is set to revolutionize the way head and neck cancer is treated, offering patients the best possible oncological outcomes while preserving their functionality and cosmesis.Head and Neck cancer is a significant public health concern, with 57.5% of cases worldwide occurring in Asia. India bears a heavy burden, accounting for 30% of all head and neck cancers globally. In 2018, India recorded 1,19,992 new cases and 72,616 deaths due to oral cancers, earning the country the unfortunate title of being the “capital of oral cancers.” This alarming trend is often attributed to unique habits, such as tobacco chewing, and the high incidence of oral cancer associated with smokeless tobacco use.Dr. Sapna Nangia, Director – Breast, Head & Neck, Department of Radiation Oncology, APCC, emphasized the gravity of the situation, saying, “The prevalence of head and neck cancer in India is a cause for concern, and it necessitates a specialized and integrated approach to treatment. APCC’s Centre of Excellence for Head and Neck Cancer is committed to providing the best possible oncological outcomes while prioritizing functional and cosmetic outcomes for our patients.”Dr. Sandip Duarah, Senior Consultant, Head and Neck, Surgical Oncology, APCC, said, “Head and Neck Cancer Management has always been a multidisciplinary approach. Here at APCC, we not only have all the cutting-edge technology to aid us but our strength lies in our team which works in perfect tandem, relying on each other for all treatment decisions that are taken for the benefit of the patient’s well-being. At APCC, we believe in complete teamwork which is our forte.”The Centre’s cutting-edge technologies include robotic surgery, virtual planning, and 3D printing, Co2 Laser for voice box cancer, narrow-band imaging for the early diagnosis of potentially malignant cancer, high-end endoscopic instrumentation, and navigation systems for skull-based tumors.Dr. Naveen Hedne, Senior Consultant – Head and Neck, Surgical Oncology, APCC, shared his excitement about the Centre’s potential, stating, “Our team at APCC comprises dedicated professionals who bring a collective clinical experience of over 100 years in Head and Neck Cancer Management. We are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and our multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive the highest level of care.” Dr. Prasad Eswaran, Senior Consultant, Head and Neck, Medical Oncology, APCC, highlighted the importance of a coordinated approach, saying, “Our team consists of specialists from various disciplines, including radiation oncologists, robotic surgeons, medical oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, speech therapists, theranostics /nuclear medicine experts, and anesthesiologists. This multidisciplinary approach allows us to provide patients with a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan.”APCC ensures in providing holistic care for individuals facing health challenges, such as cancer. A comprehensive approach that addresses their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. This approach encompasses a range of specialized services, including dietary support to ensure proper nutrition during treatment, swallowing and speech therapy to assist those with communication and swallowing difficulties. Clinicians from psycho-oncology provide emotional support and address the psychological aspects of coping with a diagnosis while the physiotherapy team constantly helps to maintain or improve physical function.By integrating these elements into the patient’s care plan, APCC enhances the overall quality of life and promotes a sense of well-being, recognizing that healing extends beyond medical treatment.The launch of the Centre of Excellence for Head and Neck Cancer reaffirms APCC’s commitment to advancing cancer care and delivering the best possible outcomes for patients. Through its state-of-the-art technologies, experienced team of specialists, and dedication to both oncological and functional well-being, APCC is positioned to make a significant impact in the fight against head and neck cancer.

Experts from across the globe in the IT & healthcare domain along with the policy makers to come together for Apollo Hospitals twin conference in ChennaiHyderabad, October 18th, 2016: Apollo Hospitals, one of Asia’s largest integrated healthcare provider, today announced the seventh chapter of its flagship conference ‘The International Conference on Transforming Healthcare through IT’, scheduled for October 21st and 22nd in Chennai. The one of its kind conference themed on leveraging IT in healthcare and Patient Safety is a platform to bring forth key developments and success stories wherein technology has been harnessed to improve the overall healthcare ecosystem across the globe. This is the only platform in the country that brings together leaders in the domain with an intent to exchange knowledge and exhibit what technology can do to improve the quality of life through healthcare.  Amongst the keynote speakers at the conference are, Ms Sangita Reddy – Joint Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited (AHEL), Dr Preetha Reddy – Managing Director, AHEL, Prof Thais Russomano – Chief Medical Officer, International Space Medicine Consortioum Inc, Russell P Branzell – CEO & President of the College of Healthcare Information Executives (CHIME), Steve Liber – President, CEO of HIMSS and Dr Eswara Reddy – Deputy Drugs Controller of India.Apollo Hospitals being a thought leader has been driving the need for this revolution and has successfully leveraged IT in healthcare in various aspects like surgical advancements, access to healthcare through ePHCs and through engaging tools like telemedicine, eICUs that has helped the organization service patients residing in remote and rural areas. Ms Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited, says, “A country like India with a huge population demands unique solutions to cater to the rising healthcare demands. This conference will be an ideal platform for knowledge transfer on unique technologies and solutions from key players in IT, Healthcare and also policy makers and government bodies to break down challenges, identify solutions and devise an execution plan to make healthcare accessible to all individuals.”According to Medical Council of India (MCI), there are around 9.29 lakh doctors registered in the Indian Medical Register, giving a doctor patient ratio of 1:1674 against the WHO norm of 1:1000. While government bodies and private organizations are trying their best to evaluate and leverage existing manpower and resources for better healthcare access and delivery, few organizations have started migrating towards technology to help tackle this shortage. “Clearly this is the way forward. Technology advancements in healthcare informatics, telemedicine, Hospital Information System (HIS), electronic health records, remote diagnostic, therapeutic tools, healthcare wearables have pivoted the first step towards tech enabled healthcare and can be further leveraged to effect new modalities of healthcare. Improvements in collaborative data exchange, workflows and mobility, and need for better financial management are the next phase of technological evolution in healthcare” adds Ms Sangita Reddy.The conference will also see the participation of all the board members together from the International Society of Telemedicine and eHealth (ISfTeH), an international federation that facilitates global dissemination of knowledge and experience in Telemedicine and eHealth wherein the team will share their distinguished knowledge in the various areas relating to Telemedicine such as ‘Transatlantic Teleconsultation’, ‘Human-Computer Interaction Technology’ etc. “Telemedicine is today taking the centre stage with its growing potential to deliver better and more precise healthcare services. An informed patient is the new foundation that our future is set to grow up on. In that regard, we see it a great opportunity to participate in a platform in India, to bring in global ideas to the table for collective growth and potential collaboration. We are glad to have associated with Apollo Hospitals in this endeavor to further our efforts in increasing access to information in the field of Telemedicine and eHealth”, says Mr Andy Fischer,President, ISFTeH.The International Congress on Patient Safety 2016 will also bring together patient safety experts from across the country and the world, right here in Chennai to discuss and share knowledge on ways and means to enhance patient safety and also look at avenues to improve healthcare delivery and access. Transforming Healthcare with IT was conceptualized to create a platform for organisations with similar objectives of enhancing healthcare access and delivery to come together and deliberate on the best possible tools to improve India’s healthcare eco-system. These twin conferences, conceptualized with the single agenda of enabling better healthcare reach will be the ideal platform to discuss way forward and strategy to make India a healthier nation.About Apollo HospitalsIt was in 1983, that Dr. Prathap Reddy made a pioneering endeavour by launching India’s first corporate hospital – Apollo Hospitals in Chennai. Over the years Apollo Hospitals has established itself as home to the largest cardiac practice in India with over 160,000 cardiac surgeries. Apollo Hospitals is also the world’s largest private cancer care provider and runs the world’s leading solid organ transplant program having conducted over 1,500 solid organ transplants in 2014-15 alone.Now, as Asia’s largest and most trusted healthcare group, its presence includes 9,554 beds across 69 Hospitals, 2,326 Pharmacies, over 172 Primary Care and Diagnostic Clinics, 148 plus Telemedicine Centres and 80 plus Apollo Munich Insurance branches panning the length and breadth of the country. As an integrated healthcare service provider with health insurance services, projects consultancy services, medical education centres and a Research Foundation with a focus on global clinical trials, epidemiological studies, stem cell & genetic research, Apollo Hospitals has been at the forefront of new medical breakthroughs with the most recent investment being that of commissioning the first Proton Therapy Centre across Asia, Africa and Australia in Chennai, India. Every four days, the Apollo Hospitals Group touches a million lives, in its mission to bring healthcare of International standards within the reach of every individual. In a rare honour, the Government of India issued a commemorative stamp in recognition of Apollo’s contribution, the first for a healthcare organization. Apollo Hospitals Chairman, Dr. Prathap C Reddy, was conferred with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan in 2010. For more than 28 years, the Apollo Hospitals Group has continuously excelled and maintained leadership in medical innovation, world-class clinical services and cutting-edge technology. Our hospitals are consistently ranked amongst the best hospitals globally for advanced medical services and research.    

Apollo Hospitals launches dedicated Heart Failure Clinic!The rising incidence of heart failure in the population is of grave concern and a huge burden on the nationPrevalence as high as 4.85 million, with five lakh patients adding on every yearDedicated Apollo Heart Failure Clinic will aid to reassure patients & improve quality of life  Hyderabad, September 28th, 2016: Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, announced the launch of Heart Failure Clinic, on Wednesday at Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad. Dr A G K Gokhale, Consultant Cardiothoracic, Transplant Surgeon and Dr Jayakeerthi Y. Rao, Consultant Heart Failure Specialist & Dr.Vijay Dikshit, Sr.Consultant CT Surgeon disclosed the functioning of a dedicated Heart Failure Clinic at the hospital, at a Press Conference organised on the eve of World Heart Day – 29th September, 2016.Heart Failure, a condition in which a weakened heart has trouble pumping enough blood throughout the body, is acquiring epidemic proportions in India, off late. However it doesn’t imply complete cessation of heart functioning, but a lack of adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients to meet the body’s requirements. This results in reduced quality of life, frequent hospitalization and high mortality. Heart Failure (HF) is a chronic and progressive condition that can be managed but sometimes cured. The recent advances in technology, drug discovery and advances in surgery, aid in effectively managing the condition, besides significantly improving the quality of life of the patient. Treatment coupled with appropriate lifestyle modifications can help in arresting the progression of the disease. Hence early diagnosis and treatment is of prime importance.The alarming rise in the incidence of heart failure especially amongst the younger population of our country needs to be curbed, as the overall consequences of it can be catastrophic. Educating the populace on the necessary lifestyle modifications is the way forward, says Dr A G K Gokhale. India has to do a lot to reduce the burden of Heart Failure and also provide curative and rehabilitative services to these patients, which is a huge challenge, he adds.The estimated prevalence of Heart Failure in India is 4.85 million, with five lakh patients adding on every year to this number. The disease onset here is a decade earlier than western patients, with 45% of Heart Failure patients being less than 60 years of age. The increase in the prevalence of Heart Failure is further underscored by the recent observation of up to 40% of patients with heart failure having normal left ventricular function. HF is also the cause for high mortality and readmission rates, which is twice of all admissions for cancers. Studies also indicate that the frequency of sudden death was much higher during the first 14 days after admission, as much as 70% of all deaths.A dedicated heart failure clinic is the need of the hour to monitor and manage the condition effectively. Apollo’s repository of knowledge in treating a large base heart failure patients and the tried and tested protocols in place, aid in reassuring the patients and improving their quality of life, says Dr Jayakeerthi Y. Rao. The epidemics of Diabetes, Hypertension and Ischemic heart disease is giving rise to a steady increase in incidence of Heart Failures, he points out. We want to be part of the prevention strategy and help to deal with this problem, he adds.The reasons of Heart Failure could be damage to the heart muscle caused by coronary artery disease or too much strain on the heart because of years of untreated high blood pressure or an abnormal heart valve. The typical symptoms of a Heart Failure are difficulty in breathing, chronic cough, swollen ankles, legs and abdomen, weight gain, frequent urination during night, loss of appetite, fatigue, weakness, rapid or irregular heartbeats, patients often experience a pounding sensation in the chest. Minor lifestyle modifications like consuming healthy diet, regular exercise, monitoring & controlling hypertension, limiting salt consumption, reducing stress, give up smoking, tobacco chewing and drinking alcohol, can go a long way in the prevention and arresting of Heart Failure.According to Dr.Vijay Dikshit, Sr.Consultant CT Surgeon, Heart Failure is an advance condition of any heart disease as heart diseases are increasing in India every year so as the heart failure. At present we have estimated 5 million people with heart failure in India. The population above 60 years is increasing therefore end stage heart failure is also at the rapid raise.It is a difficult condition to treat and some years with medicine only method of treatment, but now with advances in medical field there are many other treatment options are available like heart transplantation which is increasingly done in our country. Now there are other mechanical devises like LAVD (left ventricular assist device) TAH(total articular heart) pace makers (CRT) are available and can help the patients at large to overcome the problem.Never the less these are expensive devises and challenge to our health care system to incorporate them in regular system. We hope in future more sophisticated and advanced devises will be available at affordable rates to treat the fatal disease of heart failure.About Apollo HospitalsIt was in 1983, that Dr. Prathap Reddy made a pioneering endeavor by launching India’s first corporate hospital – Apollo Hospital in Chennai. Now, as Asia largest and most trusted healthcare group, its presence includes more than 10000 beds across 65 Hospitals, 2000 Pharmacies, 92 Primary Care and Diagnostic Clinics, 100 Telemedicine units across 10 countries. Health Insurance services, Global Projects Consultancy, 15 colleges of Nursing and Hospital Management and a Research Foundation with a focus on global Clinical Trials, epidemiological studies, stem cell & genetic research and the first Proton Therapy Center across Asia, Africa and Australia.In a rare honor, the Government of India issued a commemorative stamp in recognition of Apollo’s contribution, the first for a healthcare organization. Apollo Hospitals Chairman, Dr. Prathap C Reddy, was conferred with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan in 2010. For more than 30 years, the Apollo Hospitals Group has continuously excelled and maintained leadership in medical innovation, world-class clinical services and cutting-edge technology. Our hospitals are consistently ranked amongst the best hospitals globally for advanced medical services and research.    

August 3, 2016: The largest integrated healthcare provider group in Asia, Apollo Hospitals has been offering the latest in cancer care to its patients ever since its inception more than three decades ago. Thousands of patients who have benefitted from the superior technology and unmatched clinical skills vouch for the outstanding outcomes they have experienced.  Cancer is rapidly assuming epidemic proportions and is amongst the top three killers in the world. Incidence of cancer is unusually high in India and we are fast approaching the dubious positioning of being the Global Cancer Capital. As a leader in healthcare in this part of the world, Apollo Hospitals has decided to take the fight to cancer.APOLLO CANCER INSTITUTES: Apollo Hospitals has now converted its cancer management infrastructure into an independent functional entity, Apollo Cancer Institutes. Apart from creating independent institutes, Apollo has networked these institutes to leverage the strengths of all its specialists and the technology across the country. Apollo Cancer Institutes in Chennai, Hyderabad, New Delhi, Kolkatta, Ahmedabad, Bilaspur, Bengaluru and Madurai are part of this new initiative. All of them work on a common platform using standardized protocols ensuring uniform standards of care for every patient walking into the Apollo ecosystem.PRECISION ONCOLOGY: With advances in technology and the understanding of cancer, management of cancer has moved from the tissue level to the molecular level. This makes cancer management more precise and personalized. The traditional method of treating the same type of cancer with the same drug is a thing of the past. Today with the molecular understanding of tumor cells and availability of Chemo sensitivity techniques, the same type of cancer in different individuals is treated with different drugs. Similarly, newer surgical techniques using minimally invasive (Robotic Surgery) technology makes excision of tumors more precise and accurate. Our Oncologists have begun to focus on specific organs and this organ specific skill and expertise is producing results par excellence. New radiation techniques like True beam, Novalis Tx, Tomotherapy and Proton Therapy (being installed soon) add to the armamentarium of our oncologist in delivering radiation to the cancerous cells sparing the surrounding normal cells. All these techniques apart from enhancing precision and personalizing treatment also bring down the complication rates, shorten treatment duration and deliver far better results. Thus precision oncology at Apollo Cancer Institutes gives hope to every patient and delivers care that achieves the goal of conquering cancer.Cancer is a complex disease and management decisions are also complex. To demystify cancer management decisions our specialists meet as teams (Tumor Boards) and develop the most optimal treatment protocol for every patients. Similar Group wide tumor boards are also functional for second opinion services for complicated situations.Dr.Prathap C Reddy, Chairman, Apollo Group of Hospitals while announcing precision oncology at Apollo Cancer Institutes said, “Cancer has been a dreaded disease and is threatening to harmmillions of individuals in the community. It is estimated that over a million deaths occur due to cancer in India every year and this rate is skyrocketing. We cannot let this cancer epidemic go on. We are determined to fight it and win the fight over cancer. Gone are the days of ‘one size fits all’. Cancer care has moved into the era of personalized medicine where individual therapies are tailored to fit the needs of individual patients. Precision Oncology at Apollo Cancer Institutes delivers this personalized care to every patient. We have taken up the challenge of making cancer history, not because it is easy, but because it is difficult and still a distinct possibility today.”    

Apollo Cancer Institutes’ launches ‘Tomotherapy’ at Hyderabad, as part of its thrust on precision oncology!TomoTherapy targets cancer tumour with highest precision, spares the healthy tissueDaily images enable to monitor, maintain & modify the treatment during each treatment sessionHyderabad, September 9th, 2016: Apollo Cancer Institutes, Hyderabad, announced the launch of the state-of-the-art highest precision cancer care Tomotherapy. It is the latest innovation in the high-end cancer treatment and only the second such equipment in the country. Chief Guest Shri K T Rama Rao, Minister for IT E&C, MAUD, Telangana, formally inaugurated the Tomotherapy Oncology Annexe on Friday at Apollo Cancer Institutes; Guests of Honour Shri Pullela Gopichand & Olympic Silver Medalist Ms P V Sindhu; Dr Prathap C Reddy, Chaiman, Apollo Hospitals Group and Ms Sangita Reddy, Jt. Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals Group, graced the occasion.  The CT Scanner mounted Tomotherapy enables precise cancer treatment by tightly conforming the radiation dose delivery to the shape of the tumor, while being noninvasive and as painless as an x-ray. Its unique design helps in treating a wide range of cancers from routine to most complex and from head to toe. Cancers of the Breast, prostrate, lung, rectal, brain tumors & CRANIO-Spinal Radiotherapy can be treated with great precision and least side effects.Speaking on the occasion Dr Prathap C. Reddy said, we are bringing the next generation cancer care within the reach of our people, in keeping with the promise of offering same level of healthcare here as anywhere in the world. Also each one of us is unique and each patient has his unique signature disease, therefore only personalised treatment will give better cure and this is where Tomotherapy will make the difference.This all-in-one system with innovative TomoHelical and TomoDirect brings in the manoeuvrability to reach the radiation delivery in more controlled and with greater accuracy even in unreachable areas with least harm to the healthy tissue. Multiple tumors could also be treated simultaneously with this, ensuring greater comfort for patients and reduced treatment time. One of the big advantages the treating doctor gets is the ability to asses, customise, monitor and maintain the treatment according to the patient’s needs, during future sessions based on the images from the previous sessions.Olympics Silver medalist Ms PV Sindhu and her coach Shri Pullela Gopichand were felicitated on the occasion.About Apollo Hospitals: It was in 1983, that Dr. Prathap Reddy made a pioneering endeavor by launching India’s first corporate hospital – Apollo Hospital in Chennai. Now, as Asia largest and most trusted healthcare group, its presence includes more than 10000 beds across 65 Hospitals, 2000 Pharmacies, 92 Primary Care and Diagnostic Clinics, 100 Telemedicine units across 10 countries. Health Insurance services, Global Projects Consultancy, 15 colleges of Nursing and Hospital Management and a Research Foundation with a focus on global Clinical Trials, epidemiological studies, stem cell & genetic research and the first Proton Therapy Center across Asia, Africa and Australia.In a rare honor, the Government of India issued a commemorative stamp in recognition of Apollo’s contribution, the first for a healthcare organization. Apollo Hospitals Chairman, Dr. Prathap C Reddy, was conferred with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan in 2010. For more than 30 years, the Apollo Hospitals Group has continuously excelled and maintained leadership in medical innovation, world-class clinical services and cutting-edge technology. Our hospitals are consistently ranked amongst the best hospitals globally for advanced medical services and research.