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Omicron: What Healthcare Professionals should know

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared Omicron to be a COVID-19 variant of concern based on preliminary evidence that it spreads quickly. Omicron was first reported in South Africa on 24 November 2021 and is quickly becoming the dominant variant there. A variant of concern is one that may change how the pandemic behaves, so the WHO pays close attention to it. This webinar will be discussing what and how healthcare professionals should be aware of the situation.

About the Speaker

Dr. Raman Kumar

President of Academy of Family Physicians of India (AFPI), President of World Association of Family Physicians of the South Asia Region

Upcoming Case Discussions

H. pylori Treatment with PYELRA®: Best Practices

PYLERA® is a medication used for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, a common cause of stomach ulcers and gastritis. It contains a combination of three active ingredients: bismuth subcitrate potassium, metronidazole, and tetracycline. This combination works synergistically to eradicate H. pylori bacteria and reduce associated symptoms. Treatment with PYLERA® typically involves taking multiple capsules four times a day for a specified duration, as prescribed by a healthcare provider. It is important to follow the treatment regimen as directed and to discuss potential side effects

Amenorrhea: Clinical Features & Treatment

Amenorrhea refers to the absence of menstrual periods in women of reproductive age and can be classified as either primary or secondary. Clinical features of amenorrhea may include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, breast changes, headaches, and hair loss, depending on the underlying cause such as hormonal imbalances, stress, or anatomical abnormalities. Diagnosis involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and tests including hormone levels (e.g., FSH, LH, estradiol, thyroid function tests) and imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, MRI). Treatment depends on the cause and may include lifestyle modifications, hormone replacement therapy, medications to induce ovulation, or surgical intervention in cases of structural abnormalities. Management aims to address underlying factors, restore menstrual function, and address any associated symptoms or complications of amenorrhea. Regular follow-up and monitoring are essential to assess treatment efficacy and address any new concerns or changes in symptoms.

Oral Cancer Awareness: Strategies for Prevention

Promoting oral cancer awareness through educational campaigns aimed at informing the public about risk factors, signs, and symptoms of oral cancer is crucial for early detection and prevention. Encouraging individuals to quit smoking and avoid excessive alcohol consumption significantly reduces the risk of developing oral cancer, as these are major contributing factors. Emphasizing a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which are high in antioxidants, can help reduce the risk of oral cancer and support overall oral health. Routine dental visits for oral examinations and screenings play a vital role in detecting precancerous lesions or early-stage oral cancers, enabling prompt intervention and treatment. Encouraging vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV), a known risk factor for oral cancer, especially among adolescents and young adults, can reduce the risk of developing HPV-related oral cancers. Teaching individuals how to perform self-examinations of their oral cavity to identify any changes or abnormalities, such as persistent sores or lumps, encourages early detection and timely medical evaluation.

Osteoporosis: Basic Facts

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a significant complication following childbirth, characterized by excessive bleeding within 24 hours of delivery. It's a leading cause of maternal mortality globally. PPH can occur due to various factors, including uterine atony (failure of the uterus to contract), trauma during childbirth, retained placental tissue, or coagulation disorders. Prompt recognition and intervention are crucial to prevent severe consequences. Management typically involve uterine massage, administration of uterotonic medications, uterine artery embolization, or, in severe cases, surgical interventions like hysterectomy. Timely and effective management strategies are essential to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality associated with PPH. Osteoporosis is a progressive bone disease characterized by decreased bone density and structural deterioration, leading to an increased risk of fractures, particularly in the spine, hips, and wrists. It often develops silently over years, with no symptoms until a fracture occurs. Factors such as aging, hormonal changes, inadequate nutrition (especially calcium and vitamin D deficiency), sedentary lifestyle, and certain medications contribute to its development. Prevention and management strategies include weight-bearing exercises, adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, lifestyle modifications to reduce risk factors, and sometimes medication to strengthen bones and reduce fracture risk. Early detection through bone density testing and proactive intervention are crucial in mitigating its impact on individuals' health and quality of life.

Science Behind Resuscitation

Resuscitation is a critical medical intervention aimed at restoring spontaneous circulation and breathing in individuals experiencing cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. The science behind resuscitation involves a multifaceted approach, including prompt recognition of the emergency, initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to maintain blood circulation and oxygenation, defibrillation to correct life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, and advanced life support interventions such as airway management and medication administration. Key principles underlying successful resuscitation include early access to care, high-quality CPR, effective teamwork and communication among healthcare providers, and timely integration of advanced interventions based on the latest evidence-based guidelines. The ultimate goal of resuscitation is to improve the chances of survival with good neurological outcomes for patients in cardiac or respiratory arrest.