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Metabolic Syndrome in Children
Metabolic syndrome in children is a growing health concern characterized by a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. These conditions include abdominal obesity, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar levels, and abnormal lipid profiles such as high triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol. The rise in childhood obesity is a significant contributing factor to the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among young populations. Early detection and intervention are crucial, as lifestyle modifications involving diet, physical activity, and behavioral changes can effectively manage and even reverse the components of metabolic syndrome. Addressing these risk factors early helps prevent long-term health complications and promotes healthier futures for affected children.
About the Speaker

Dr. Dhanya Soodhana
Senior Specialist, Pediatric and Adolescent Endocrinology, Aster MIMS, Calicut
Dr. Dhanya Soodhana is a Senior Specialist in Pediatric and Adolescent Endocrinology at Aster MIMS, Calicut, Kerala. She completed her fellowship in Pediatric and Adolescent Endocrinology from IGICH, Bangalore, gaining extensive experience in pediatric endocrine disorders. Dr. Dhanya earned her MBBS from Kasturba Medical College in 2014 and was a gold medalist in MD Pediatrics from Government Medical College, Rajkot in 2018. Before joining Aster hospitals, she worked as a Registrar at Apollo Cradle Hospitals, Bangalore, and as a Senior Resident in Pediatrics at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health. Dr. Dhanya is dedicated to staying current with advancements in her field. Her accolades include the prestigious Ratan Tata Scholarship, a gold medal in MD Pediatrics, and a short-term sponsorship from the Indian Council of Medical Research for her study on postnatal cultural beliefs and practices.
Upcoming Case Discussions
Acne: Disorders and Treatment Approaches
Acne is a common dermatological condition caused by clogged pores, excess sebum production, bacterial growth, and inflammation. It can manifest as blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, or cysts, often leading to scarring if untreated. Various factors, including hormonal changes, diet, stress, and genetics, influence its severity. Treatment approaches range from topical and oral medications, such as retinoids, antibiotics, and hormonal therapy, to advanced procedures like chemical peels and laser therapy. A personalized skincare regimen, along with lifestyle modifications, plays a crucial role in managing and preventing acne.
Congenital Uterine Anomalies
Congenital uterine anomalies are structural abnormalities of the uterus resulting from improper fusion, canalization, or resorption of the Müllerian ducts during fetal development. These anomalies include septate, bicornuate, unicornuate, and didelphys uterus, among others. They can be asymptomatic or associated with infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, preterm birth, or abnormal menstruation. Diagnosis is typically made using imaging modalities like ultrasound, MRI, or hysterosalpingography. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the anomaly, with surgical correction such as hysteroscopic septum resection often indicated in symptomatic cases. Early detection is crucial for optimizing reproductive outcomes and guiding appropriate management strategies.
Management of Postoperative Pain: Best Practices for GP’s
Effective management of postoperative pain is crucial for promoting recovery and preventing complications. General practitioners should start by assessing pain severity using appropriate scales, then tailor the treatment plan based on the patient's medical history and the type of surgery. A combination of pharmacological approaches, such as non-opioid analgesics (e.g., NSAIDs) and opioids when necessary, should be used to minimize pain while reducing the risk of addiction. Multimodal strategies, including physical therapy and non-pharmacological techniques like cold therapy or mindfulness, can further enhance pain relief. Close follow-up is essential to adjust the treatment as needed and ensure the patient's pain is well-controlled.
Diabetes and Stem Cells: What Does the Future Hold?
The future of diabetes treatment may be revolutionized by stem cell research, offering hope for a long-term cure. Scientists are developing stem cell therapies that could regenerate insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, potentially restoring natural insulin production in people with type 1 diabetes. Early clinical trials have shown promising results, with some patients reducing or eliminating their need for insulin injections. While challenges like immune rejection and long-term efficacy remain, continued advancements suggest stem cell therapy could significantly change diabetes management in the coming years.