Tag: Icancare

USISTEF 2024 Award for ICanCaRe and Photodynamic Solutions Inc.

Dr. Pawan Gupta and Dr. Jonathan Celli were honored with the USISTEF 2024 Award for AI-Enabled Oral Cancer Screening and Treatment Project

We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Pawan Gupta, representing ICanCaRe (Indian partner), and Dr. Jonathan Celli from Photodynamic Solutions Inc., Boston (U.S. partner), have been honored with the prestigious USISTEF 2024 Award. This recognition was awarded under the joint call for proposals on ‘Critical and Emerging Technologies and Artificial Intelligence for Transforming Lives’ by the United States-India Science and Technology Endowment Fund. The project focuses on AI-enabled technology for oral cancer screening and treatment, addressing a significant healthcare challenge in India.

The award ceremony took place on October 10, 2024, at the Leela Palace, New Delhi. The Hon. Eric Garcetti, U.S. Ambassador to India, and the Hon. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Earth Sciences and Science & Technology, presented the award. Dr. Pawan Gupta graciously accepted the award certificate on behalf of both organizations, marking a significant milestone in the collaborative fight against oral cancer.

Oral cancer poses a severe public health challenge in India, largely fueled by high rates of tobacco use, betel nut consumption, and low awareness. Compounding these issues is the lack of adequate healthcare access, particularly in rural areas, which makes early detection and treatment difficult. These obstacles make it critical to develop new solutions to overcome the barriers to effective oral cancer screening and management.

This project aims to revolutionize oral cancer detection and treatment by developing a comprehensive, portable, and low-cost solution targeting high-risk populations. The innovative technology will incorporate AI-assisted autofluorescence and white light imaging for optical pathology diagnosis, ensuring early and accurate identification of pre-malignant and malignant lesions. Treatment will be initiated with tobacco cessation and facilitated through photo-biomodulation (PBM) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) for on-the-spot care of potentially pre-malignant lesions.

With this technology, ICanCaRe and Photodynamic Solutions Inc., Boston, are committed to transforming the way oral cancer is diagnosed and treated, particularly in underserved areas. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the entire team working on this groundbreaking initiative. Together, we strive to create a future where early detection of oral cancer is accessible to all, improving patient outcomes and saving lives.

Stay tuned for more updates on this revolutionary project!

#USISTEF #AwardWinner #CancerCare #AIForHealth #ICanCaRe #MaxOncology #InnovationInHealthcare #photodynamicsolutions #photobiomodulations #pawangupta #jonathancelli

PRISm – A COPD Risk factor and Smoking Cessation advocated by ICanCaRe

Introduction:

Preserved Ratio Impaired Spirometry (PRISm) is a critical indicator characterized by an FEV1 of <80% predicted and a FEV1/FVC ratio of >0.70. Identified as a precursor to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), PRISm demands careful monitoring, particularly in individuals with respiratory symptoms. The studies by Mariko Kogo et al. and Daniel H Higbee et al. shed light on the significant correlation between PRISm, respiratory symptoms, and the heightened risk of developing COPD, emphasizing the urgency for effective tobacco cessation interventions. In this context, the ICanCaRe tobacco cessation intervention program emerges as a beacon of hope, advocating for smoking cessation on an individual basis. (www.icancare.in). This blog is in series with the previous blog on Increased risk of Asthma in Children exposed to secondhand smoke.( ICanCaRe Blog) (ICanCaRe LinkedIn)

Understanding the PRISm Challenge:

PRISm, when associated with respiratory symptoms such as cough, sputum, and dyspnea, poses an independent risk factor for COPD development, especially in individuals with a history of smoking. Even without symptoms at baseline, PRISm can progress within five years, leading to airflow limitations. In addition, individuals with PRISm could exhibit increased respiratory symptoms, poor health-related quality of life, multiple comorbidities, and increased mortality compared with those with normal spirometry. The quantitative assessment capability of PRISm becomes a crucial tool for identifying and addressing the risks faced by smokers, reinforcing the need for smoking cessation.

The ICanCaRe Tobacco Cessation Intervention program quantifies the need for individuals and the digital protocol puts the urgency for smoking cessation on an individual basis.

ICanCaRe: A Holistic Approach to Tobacco Cessation:

ICanCaRe tobacco cessation wellness program stands out as a comprehensive, evidence-based tobacco cessation program aligned with the latest research findings. Grounded in the insights from studies by Kogo et al. and Higbee et al., ICanCaRe adopts a holistic approach to empower individuals to overcome addiction, ensuring long-term abstinence, and reducing the risk of respiratory complications.

Key Components of ICanCaRe – ABCD of Tobacco Cessation:

1. ACTIVE MOTIVATION: ICanCaRe actively motivates tobacco users through quantitative and qualitative assessments, estimating the progressive risk associated with continued smoking.

2. BEHAVIOR INTERVENTION: Tailored behavioral counseling strategies address unique triggers contributing to tobacco addiction, crucial for addressing psychological aspects and enhancing successful cessation.

3. COMORBIDITY MANAGEMENT: Clinical assessments for associated morbidities are conducted, with specialists providing personalized care.

4. DRUGS and MEDICATIONS – Pharmacotherapy: The program integrates evidence-based pharmacotherapies to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings, enhancing the effectiveness of the intervention and ensuring complete cessation.

Call 011-43077695 or write to info@icancare.in and download the ICanCaRe tobacco Wellness APP (http://app.icancare.in)

Conclusion – Empowering Individuals for a Tobacco-Free Future:

As we confront the challenges posed by PRISm and its link to respiratory symptoms, the ICanCaRe Tobacco Cessation Intervention program stands as a beacon of hope. By integrating the latest research findings into its framework, ICanCaRe not only recognizes the severity of the issue but actively addresses it through a personalized and holistic approach. It serves as a call to action for individuals to take charge of their respiratory health, break free from tobacco addiction, and embrace a future free from the shackles of compromised lung function.

ICanCaRe stands at the forefront of the battle against tobacco addiction, offering a lifeline to those grappling with the consequences of PRISm. Through its holistic approach, the program not only supports individuals in their journey to quit smoking but also contributes to a healthier, tobacco-free future for communities worldwide.

It is time we #savetheyouth. SAVE our next generation!! #knowtobacco to #notobacco

Reference:

1. Mariko Kogo et al. Longitudinal changes and association of respiratory symptoms with preserved ratio impaired spirometry (PRISm): The Nagahama Study. Ann Am Thorac Soc. 2023 Nov;20(11):1578-1586. doi: 10.1513/AnnalsATS.202301-050OC.

2. Daniel H Higbee et al. Prevalence, risk factors, and clinical implications of preserved ratio impaired spirometry: a UK Biobank cohort analysis. Lancet Respir Med. 2022 Feb;10(2):149-157. doi: 10.1016/S2213-2600(21)00369-6.

Author –

1. Dr Shikha Jindal Consultant Pulmonologist Dr Shikha Jindal Gupta MD, CTCS(GU)

– Sr Consultant Pulmonologist,

– Certified Tobacco Cessation Specialist (Gujarat University by ICanCaRe)

Neo Super-Speciality Hospital, Noida

2. Dr Pawan Gupta M.Ch. Cancer Surgeon

 –  Sr. Director, Surgical Oncology

MAX Institute of Cancer Care, Vaishali, Patparganj and Noida

–          Founder Director – ICanCaRe – Innovative Cancer Care and Rehabilitation ICanCaRe, ICanCaRe Academy

–          Master Trainer – Tobacco Cessation Courses, Oral Cancers

#icancare #asthmaawareness #secondhandsmoke #icancareapp #pawangupta #icancareacademy #knowtobacco #Prism #COPD #smoking #quitsmoking

Suneela Garg Dr. Paramita Sengupta Rakesh Gupta Dr Pawan Gupta Dr REENA R KUMAR Shruti Agrawal Rishabh Agrawal Dr. Siddhi Hathiwala Dr Neha Agrawal ICanCaRe – Innovative Cancer Care and Rehabilitation Dr Shikha Jindal Consultant Pulmonologist

What to do if your brother is a tobacco user? BHAI DHOOJ SPECIAL

What to do if your brother is a tobacco user?

Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of preventable death and disease in the world. It can harm not only the smoker but also the people around them who are exposed to second-hand smoke. If your brother is a tobacco user, you may be worried about his health and well-being, and you would wish your brother to be tobacco-free. Here are some steps you can take to support your brother in his journey to becoming tobacco-free. Read – Why should a sister wish her brother to be tobacco-free. https://blog.icancare.in/2023/08/31/why-should-asister-wish-her-brother-be-tobacco-free/

1. #KNOWTOBACCO. Be a Tobacco MARSHAL. Educate yourself about the dangers of tobacco use and the benefits of quitting. Learn about the different types of tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars, pipes, hookahs, e-cigarettes, and smokeless tobacco. Find out how they affect the body and increase the risk of various diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung disease, and diabetes. The short-term effects and long-term effects. Also, learn about the positive effects of quitting tobacco, such as improved breathing, blood pressure, circulation, taste, smell, and mood. You can find reliable information from various sources and also from https://blog.icancare.in Please download the ICanCaRe Tobacco Wellness APP

2. COMMUNICATE –  Talk to your brother about his tobacco use and his reasons for quitting. Choose a time and place where you can have a calm and respectful conversation with your brother. Avoid nagging, lecturing, judging, or criticizing him for his tobacco use. Instead, express your concern and care for him, and ask him how he feels about his tobacco use and his readiness to quit. Listen to his answers and try to understand his perspective. You can also share some facts and benefits of quitting tobacco that you learned from step 1 but do not overwhelm him with too much information at once. You will need to have patience.

3. WIN OVER TOBACCO IS EASY – Encourage your brother to seek professional help and use evidence-based methods to quit tobacco. Quitting tobacco can be very challenging, especially if your brother has been using it for a long time or has a strong addiction. He may need more than just your support to quit successfully. You can suggest that he talk to Certified Tobacco Cessation Specialists near you or online Call ICanCaRe Quitline  @ 011-43077695,  about his tobacco use and get advice on the best ways to quit. You can also help him find and use proven methods to quit tobacco, such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), Nicotine Receptor Agonist medication, behavioral therapy, or quitline services. Certified Tobacco Cessation Specialist uses the most advanced digital tobacco cessation protocol for a 100% quit rate.

Most users, when given the assurance and hand held by a certified tobacco cessation specialist and with ABCD Quit Tobacco Intervention, are more than willing to quit!!!

An ICanCaRe Certified Tobacco Cessation Specialist follows the ABCD Of Tobacco Cessation to help in a 100% quit rate.

4. HAND HOLD- Be his Quit Buddy. Connect with your CTCS. Support your brother throughout his quitting process and celebrate his achievements. Quitting tobacco is not easy, and your brother may face many challenges and setbacks along the way. He may experience withdrawal symptoms, cravings, stress, mood swings, or weight gain. He may also encounter triggers or temptations that make him want to smoke or use tobacco again. You can help your brother cope with these difficulties by being there for him when he needs you. You can offer him emotional support, such as listening to his feelings, giving him encouragement, or reminding him of his reasons for quitting. You can also offer him practical support, such as helping him avoid or deal with triggers, distracting him from cravings, or joining him in healthy activities that reduce stress and improve well-being. Additionally, you can celebrate his achievements and milestones with him, such as going one day, one week, one month, or one year without tobacco. You can praise his efforts, reward his progress, or do something fun with him to mark the occasion.

5. BE A QUIT BUDDY. BE PATIENT. Do NOT FEEL GUILTY. – Be patient and understanding with your brother and yourself. Quitting tobacco is a personal decision and a process that takes time and effort. Your brother may not be ready to quit right away or may not quit on his first attempt. He may relapse or resume his tobacco use after quitting for a while. Do not give up on him or blame him for his failures. Instead, be patient and understanding with him and help him learn from his mistakes and try again. Remember that every quit attempt is a step forward and an opportunity to improve. Similarly, be patient and understanding with yourself, and do not feel guilty or frustrated if you cannot make your brother quit tobacco. You cannot control his behaviour or force him to change; you can only offer your support and guidance. The final decision and responsibility lie with him.

By following these steps, you can show your brother that you care about him and that you want him to live a healthier and happier life without tobacco.

Let us join hands to #savetheyouth.

(The Author – Dr. Pawan Gupta M.Ch. is Director of Surgical Oncology at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, Patparganj, and Noida. He is the author of the books – Win Over Tobacco Made Easy, Be Smart Do Not Start and is highly recognized for his work on Oral Cancer and Tobacco Cessation. He is the convenor for the Certified Course in Tobacco Cessation at Gujarat University, and has trained more than 1000 doctors to be tobacco cessation specialists).

Book your appointment today to start a healthy tobacco/smoke-free life with the best in class tobacco/smoking cessation experts at www.icancare.in/quittobacco or call 011-430-77695 for help. Download the ICanCaRe e-cessation app for quitting smoking and tobacco at https://app.icancare.in.