Green Therapy: Let Nature Revitalize Your Mind and Soul

 Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is a foundational pillar of a just and equitable healthcare system. It envisions that all individuals and communities receive the quality healthcare they need without suffering financial hardship. In India, while significant strides have been made towards achieving UHC, there remain challenges that need to be addressed for a comprehensive and inclusive healthcare system. India’s journey towards UHC has seen notable progress in recent years.  Healthcare Infrastructure: – Inadequate healthcare infrastructure in rural and remote areas limits access to quality healthcare. Shortages of medical facilities, equipment, and skilled personnel pose barriers to achieving UHC. Equitable Access: – Disparities in healthcare access persist across regions and socio-economic groups. Marginalized populations often face difficulties in accessing healthcare due to social, economic, and geographical factors. Healthcare Quality: – While UHC aims for universal access,...

 Remember the lockdown days? Trapped within the confines of our homes, our social lives declined. In those apprehensive moments, many of us struggled with loneliness and depression, prompting profound self-reflection. A subject that was often silenced in our society suddenly gained the recognition it truly deserved.  The Rise in Mental Health Challenges  The lockdowns and social distancing measures implemented to control the spread of the virus resulted in a sudden disruption of our daily routines. The familiar faces and places that once provided comfort were replaced by isolation and uncertainty. The fear of the unknown, coupled with the economic downturn, intensified stress levels across the country.  Strain on Existing Mental Health Services  India, like many other countries, was faced with the challenge of an overwhelmed healthcare system. While the focus understandably remained on treating COVID-19 patients, the strain on mental health services became evide...

 Tuberculosis (TB), an enduring global health threat claiming millions of lives annually, has encountered a breakthrough at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). In 2023, researchers unveiled the “whiB7” gene in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), offering a potential game-changer in the battle against this persistent disease. Unlocking Mtb’s Secrets Utilising cutting-edge tools, IISc researchers delved into the intricate workings of Mtb, revealing the previously undiscovered gene, whiB7. This gene plays a crucial role in the bacteria’s ability to enter a dormant state within human cells, eluding immune defenses and existing drugs. The discovery opens new avenues for understanding the persistence of TB infections. Targeting WhiB7—A Novel Approach Under the leadership of Dr. Ayesha Khan, the IISc research team proposes a groundbreaking approach to develop drugs specifically targeting whiB7, referred to as “host-directed therapy.” This innovative strategy exploits vulnerabilities in ...