Medical Observer ship Visit Johns Hopkins
Shahid Husain Foundation, Shalamar Hospital, and Johns Hopkins Medicine International (JHMI) are working to build Pakistan’s first Women’s Health Center. Two doctors – Dr. Sadaf Ishaq, Asst. Professor of Surgery / Oncology and Dr. Eisha Tahir, Assistant Professor of Radiology – from Shalamar Hospital, visited the JHMI, USA, in the first week of June 2022 for Medical Observership training to learn about best practices. Recently they returned after their first observership visit and delivered presentations on their learning experience and their plan to improve their respective departments for the development of the Women Health Center. Here’s what Dr. Sadaf and Dr. Eisha learned from their Medical Observership visit to Johns Hopkins Medical International (JHMI), USA. “My visit to JHMI was centered in the breast imaging unit at the Johns Hopkins main, Green Spring Station, and White Marsh Center. I shadowed Dr. Emily Ambinder, Dr. Phil Di Carlo, and Dr. Babita Panigrahi. The focus of this visit was learning about the latest imaging modalities and interventional procedures related to breast cancer screening & diagnosis. During observership, I primarily concentrated on screening & diagnostic mammography reporting, breast MRI reporting, stereotactic biopsy, clipping and wire localization, and MR-guided biopsy and clipping. JHMI is equipped with the latest imaging modalities and follows the ACR guidelines in their diagnostic workup and follow-up. “My clinical observership was in the breast centers of Johns Hopkins Hospitals at Bayview, Green Spring Station, and Skip Viragh cancer outpatient center. Dr. Mehran Habibi is the director Breast center at Johns Hopkins, and he was my breast surgery mentor there. I learned and trained on developing breast centers and hands-on practice on the latest breast cancer surgery tools available at Johns Hopkins like Margin Probe, Endomag, axillary surgery updates, and Oncoplastic procedures. Johns Hopkins’s latest research on breast cancer diagnosis and treatments, including their liquid DNA biopsies for breast cancer recurrences and much more practice-changing trends over there, this clinical observership boosted my confidence as a Breast Surgical Oncologist. This collaboration is a perfect opportunity for the young consultants to learn from the latest evidence-based practices and broaden their professional horizons.” ~ Dr Sadaf Ishaque Here what they have to say about their visit and learning over there. It was a refresher for “best practice.” Including value-added services in Shalamar Hospital and frequent communication with the JHMI consultants and administration will pave the way for patient benefit in the future. I would add that since my expectations and learning objectives were evident before my visit, hence it maximized my experience there. I recommend the same for the consultants visiting in the next phase.” ~Dr Eisha Tahir
Dr Maryam Riaz Tarar Representing Pakistan at the 36th Meeting of the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Regional Commission for Certification of Poliomyelitis Eradication.
Shalamar Institute of Health Sciences (SIHS) is proud to announce that Dr. Maryam R Tarar, Professor of Pathology, Convener Infection Prevention & Control Committee (IPCC), and frontline team leader in fighting COVID-19, was nominated by the government and World Health Organization (WHO) to represent Pakistan at the 36th meeting of the “Eastern-Mediterranean Regional Commission for Certification of Poliomyelitis Eradication (EM/RCC).” The EM/RCC meets annually to discuss the data on polio eradication from 22 member states. The report to discuss this data is presented by National Certification Committee (NCC) Chair or a nominated member from each country. For this meeting held at Dusit Thani Hotel, Dubai, from 31st May to 2nd June, Prof. Tarar was nominated to present the Annual Progress Report for the year 2021 as a member of NCC Pakistan. The other team members comprised Pakistan WHO Team Lead Dr. Zainul Abedin Khan and National Poliovirus Surveillance Coordinator Dr. Shafique-ur-Rehman. The presentation covered five key subtopics: polio eradication strategies; the number of isolates of wild poliovirus (WPV) and vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV2) isolates; environmental surveillance network; surveillance of acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) cases and poliovirus containment. The session on day 2 of the meeting provided to Pakistan and Afghanistan was one of the most extended and in-depth due to the endemic nature of poliomyelitis in the country. Prof Tarar received praise from WHO/EMRO Focal points/coordinator, Ms. Rasha Naguib, and other country representatives for her poise and speaking style as the “Face of Pakistan.” Prof. Maryam Tarar also attended the Training of the EM National Users (MoH Focal Persons/NCC) for Poliomyelitis Eradication – Electronic Annual Certification Reports System (e-ACR). This was mandated for chairs of NCC. This three-day course focused on providing the participants with all information necessary to report their findings from next year onwards digitally. As a representative of Pakistan, Professor Tarar will now act as a trainer for others in Pakistan on using eACR.
JULY- SARCOMA AWARENESS MONTH
Each year in the month of July, Awareness about this “Forgotten Cancer “is spread in the world. Sarcoma Awareness Month aims to highlight the extraordinary challenges that sarcoma patients face, and provides information about the need for more Sarcoma research and better Sarcoma therapies. Sarcoma makes up about 15% of childhood cancers. Early diagnosis can increase the risk of survival by 20% What should you know about Sarcoma? Sarcoma is a rare type of cancer originating from soft tissue. Sarcoma comprises many subtypes of cancer (bones, nerves, joints, muscles, fat, blood vessels). Our whole body is made up of tissue so it can arise anywhere in the body. Common Sub-types: – Bone sarcoma aka Osteosarcoma It is the primary bone cancer which commonly occurs in thigh, upper arm or shin. Its further subtypes includes Ewing’s Sarcoma, Chondroma and Chondrosarcoma – Soft tissue sarcomas This subtype can occur anywhere-inside and outside .It includes: GIST is a common type of sarcoma; it develops in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, anywhere from mouth to anus. Gynaecological sarcomas occur in female reproductive tract Fibrosarcomas in fibrous connective tissue Causes and Etiology: Exact causal factors and mechanism are not known yet, some factors tend to increase the risk of developing sarcoma which includes age, any other cancer, genetic conditions such as retinoblastoma, exposure to toxins etc. Presentation and Symptoms: Sarcoma very unapologetically represent itself as painless lump on the affected site. The other signs and symptoms range very widely. They can include: Weight loss Loss of appetite Fever Anemia Pain Local inflammation So if someone feels a set of symptoms, unexplained pain or even just a lump then it should be considered suspicious enough to get it checked immediately. Diagnosis: In order to confirm a diagnosis, a number of tests are needed to confirm soft tissue sarcoma. These include: Physical exam by your doctor Biopsy Imaging tests such as MRI, CT scan, X-rays. Treatment: Treatment selection is a very critical step and it involves multiple factors to be taken into consideration. Most commonly its SURGERY in which the cancerous part is excised and removed from body Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy are also used prior surgery to reduce the size of cancerous tissue so that the affected tissue can be easily removed. Our motive: Our mission is to amplify sarcoma awareness so that no sarcoma case causes undiagnosed till it reaches lethal stage. To tranform lives affected by sarcoma To inspire involvement and fund ground breaking research about sarcoma By Kashaf Naveed Team Content Writing SHALAMAR LITERARY SOCIETY SMDC, Lahore
The hike in the prices of female hygiene products
The problem at hand? Access to hygiene products is not a luxury but a basic necessity. Female hygiene products range from shampoos and shaving equipment to sanitary napkins and tampons. Unlike shampoo and shaving equipment, women cannot cut back on menstrual products. These essential products are not exempt from state taxes and are expensive for consumers with limited budgets. What is Period Poverty? Period poverty refers to the lack of access to menstrual products, education, and hygiene facilities. It is a widespread yet highly neglected issue worldwide, especially in Pakistan. In Pakistan, period poverty is not just a result of financial restrictions. A considerable part of the problem also takes root in the taboos surrounding menstruation; menstruating women are considered impure and dirty. Such social stigmas hinder women from accessing menstrual products and discussing their health and hygiene. What is the scope of menstrual education in Pakistan? According to U-Report, a flagship program of UNICEF, 49% of young girls in Pakistan barely have any knowledge of periods before their first cycle. Only 20% of them learn about menstruation in schools. To tackle the issue at hand, it is essential to understand that period poverty is not only a result of women’s financial restrictions but also socio-cultural norms that have made menstruation a taboo, a topic unfit for public discussion. It is socially unacceptable for young girls to access information about their menstrual and reproductive health. This lack of knowledge gives rise to and perpetuates many baseless myths. What are the consequences of period poverty? A US-based study revealed that an average woman spends around thirteen dollars per month on menstrual products. Women often lean towards unhealthy and non-sanitary practices like sharing rags and clothes, which results in urinary infections and other health conditions. The social stigma surrounding menstruation also causes young girls to develop low esteem, feelings of shame, and distress, limiting their day-to-day activities. Menstruating women are also subjected to social sanctions in certain cultures, such as being prohibited from touching certain foods. Since educational facilities lack menstrual supplies and have poor sanitation and hygienic facilities, girls on their period also avoid going to school, hindering their academic performance. What can be done? Communities must acknowledge that having access to menstrual products and information is not a privilege but a necessity. In a survey conducted on 2000 women, approximately half of the women faced period poverty, and 80 percent of them believed it was a genuine issue. Around 1200 claimed they had to budget to afford sanitary products. 70 percent of them demanded that government should supply free menstrual products. In November 2020, Scotland became the first country in the world to make sanitary products free of cost. Following their footsteps, period products should be available free of charge, especially in schools, colleges, and universities. Several initiatives have also sprung up to facilitate women in combating period poverty. One of these was Girlythings, an application that delivers menstrual products to women with disabilities at their doorsteps. They also supply an “Urgent Kit” that includes instant stain remover, sanitary napkins, and undergarments. Women’s fundamental right is to learn about something that dominates a significant part of their lives. Raising awareness about the use and importance of hygiene products, along with busting the myths and stigmas surrounding this very natural process, is necessary to end the taboo surrounding this issue. The Lokhandwala sisters started a women-led NGO, “Her Pakistan,” which conducts seminars and workshops in different institutes, especially in remote and underdeveloped areas. They aim to eradicate the misinformation and myths that surround menstruation. Initiatives such as these are highly effective, but steps on a much larger scale must be taken to make period poverty obsolete. Women must be empowered regarding their health to create an equitable community and lead lives to their fullest potential. Written by: Laiba Bilal – Marketing Intern Edited by: Eman Toosy (Team Content Review Shalamar Literary Society, SMDC)
The need for COVID-19 booster shots
The need for COVID-19 booster shots Problem at hand While Pakistan was one of the countries which were internationally appreciated for tackling the outbreak of the virus very well, the recent surge in COVID-19 cases has raised concerns among doctors. It is feared that hospitals will soon have to operate above their capacities to accommodate the increasing number of cases. It was advised by the Minister of National Health Services (NHS) at the NCOC meeting in Islamabad to administer booster doses in all the provinces and regions on a top priority basis to decline the rate of COVID-19 transmission. What is the booster shot? It is the dose of the vaccine received after the primary vaccination dose to maintain unassailable protection from coronavirus. Various types of vaccines now have boosters that are given to adults as well as children and pregnant women, which can help them protect their infants. The booster dose for COVID-19 should be received six months after the primary vaccine is received. Why should I get booster shots? COVID-19 booster shot significantly enhances your immunity that could have been reduced after your primary vaccination dose. A concrete safety from COVID-19 can only be ensured when you get all the recommended boosters. You can get the booster dose suitable according to your level of immunity from moderately to severely immunocompromised. Am I eligible for the booster dose? All individuals aged 12 years and older are advised to get one booster shot. Adults who are 50 years of age and above are recommended to get two booster shots. Additional booster shot is also offered for juveniles with weak immunity. Are there any side effects? There are no side effects; however, you may experience some symptoms, which merely means that your immune system reacts to the dose and develops protection against the virus. The symptoms may include temporary flu, chills, swollen lymph nodes, fever, minor body aches, headaches, or tiredness lasting for one to two days. It is essential to understand that these symptoms do not mean you are sick but it is your body developing immunity. What is the difference between a COVID-19 booster shot and an “Additional Dose”? A COVID-19 booster is given once the individual’s body receives the primary vaccine series, and the protection built against the virus has weakened with time. It, however, depends upon the original series one had, so the type of booster required varies. An additional dose is given to people with weak immune systems who are: Being treated for a cancer Have had an organ transplant or cell transplant within the last two years o On medicinal drugs that deteriorate the immunity Diagnosed with HIV o Have a high viral load o On drugs with high-dose steroids These extra doses enhance their immunity to the same level as that of a healthy individual. Children aged 6 months to 4 years usually require an extra dose, which primarily depends upon which vaccine was received. You may refer to your health care provider to refer you to the type of additional dose that your body may require. Where can I get my COVID-19 booster shot? To get your COVID-19 booster shot in Lahore, you may visit the following centers: Railway Dispensary (Walton Road) LDA Complex (Minar e Pakistan, Main Road) Pakistan Kidney Institute (DHA Phase 7) Lahore Medical and Dental College (Lahore Medical Housing Scheme) Central Park Medical Dental College (Central Park Housing Scheme) United Christian Hospital (Main boulevard Gulberg) Indus Hospital (Main GT Road) Fauji Foundation (Bedian Road) Ghaziabad Hospital (Kamharpura, Ghaziabad) PU Quaid e Azam New Complex (Canal Road) University of Engineering and Technology (GT Road, Bhagbanpura) University of Lahore Teaching Hospital (Bhubtian Chowk) Cairns Railway Hospital (Ghari Shahu) Government Hospital (Sodiwal Road) Railway Hospital (Shah Jehan Road) National Hospital (DHA Phase 1) Government Mian Mir Hospital (Mian Mir Data Darbar Road) Data Darbar Government Samnabad Hospital (Shadman Main Boulevard) Pilot School (Wahdat Road of block Iqbal Town) Wapda Hospital (Ferozpur Road) Istefaq Hospital (H block Model Town) Government Sawami Nigrai Hospital (Sowami Nigr Road, Tehzab Ihatah Sowami Nigr) Written by: Laiba Bilal – Marketing Intern Edited by: Aamina Sajid – General Secretary Shalamar Literary Society, SMDC
5 Illnesses Caused by Heat That You Should Know About
5 Illnesses Caused by Heat That You Should Know About As the month of May ends, cities across Pakistan continue to suffer from an intense heatwave, with temperatures in Lahore reaching above 40 degrees Celsius almost every day. Hospitals have reported an uptick in heat stroke victims, and recently the Pakistan army has set up heat stroke relief centers across the country. Heat stroke may be the most commonly known illness when it comes to hot weather, but there are many other kinds of heat related illnesses to look out for first, ranging from dehydration to heat rashes to heat exhaustion. To prevent these heat related illnesses, it is important to know what they are and what symptoms to look out for. Below is a list of 5 common heat-related illnesses we should know about, and how to make sure we can treat them. Heat rash Heat rash is one of the mild but common illnesses associated with hot weather. Often caused by excessive sweating, it is characterized as a skin irritation that often forms in areas where sweat gets trapped via clothing, such as the chest, armpits, elbows and groin. It can be uncomfortable and unsightly. To prevent heat rash, one should: Stay away from humid and hot conditions Try to prevent excessive sweating through applying deodorant and prickly-heat/talcum powder Avoid excessive use of creams and lotions Dehydration Often the first symptom of being overheated, dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it is replacing, leading to the body being unable to function at the proper capacity. Mild symptoms of dehydration include a dry mouth, less frequent urination of a darker yellow colour, dizziness and fatigue. More severe dehydration can lead to mental confusion, fever, and possible need for hospitalization. To prevent dehydration, one should: Drink plenty of fluids and have fruits such as watermelon, melon, cucumber, etc., with high fluid content Avoid staying in extremely hot areas that lead to excessive sweating If dehydration occurs, drink Oral Rehydration fluids which provide electrolytes Heat Cramps One of the mildest forms of heat-related illness, heat cramps are muscle-related spasms or jerks that usually occur when working/exercising in a hot area where you have to exert energy. These cramps are painful but usually short and go away on their own. To prevent heat cramps, one should: Be aware of when you need to work in a hot place, and hydrate yourself beforehand as well as while you are there Make sure there is a nearby cool area and access to oral rehydration liquids like ORS or Gatorade in case you begin to feel symptoms of cramping Heat Exhaustion Heat exhaustion occurs after the body is dehydrated and lacks electrolytes, and is unable to cool itself properly. It occurs after being in extreme heat and excessive sweating. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, excessive sweating, and an elevated body temperature. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke. To prevent heat exhaustion, one should: When in hot environments, make sure to wear loose fitting, lightweight clothing which allows your body to regulate its temperature easily Stay hydrated by drinking fluids Avoid exertion and prolonged exposure to hot environments Heat Stroke Heat stroke is the most common term used when it comes to heat-related illnesses — however, not everyone knows exactly what this illness is. The most severe of heat related illnesses, heat stroke occurs when the body is unable to control its temperature at all. Symptoms include a very high body temperature, failure to sweat to regulate temperature, confusion and disorientation, seizures and unconsciousness. To prevent heat stroke, one should: Stay hydrated Protect yourself from direct sunlight by wearing an umbrella or a cap. Wear loose, lightweight clothing and dampen the skin to allow the body to cool itself properly If you start to suffer heat cramps or heat exhaustion, get to a cooler, shaded spot right away and, if the situation doesn’t improve, call emergency services before you get heat stroke. If any of the above illnesses’ symptoms worsen, get to the nearest hospital as soon as possible. By knowing how our bodies respond to heat, we can keep track of our wellbeing as well as others. Stay hydrated and stay safe! Written by: Mashal Nadeem – Project Analyst at SIHS
Workshop on Research and Public Health Ethics – The Essentials
The department of Research & Innovation, Shalamar Medical & Dental College (SMDC) in collaboration with Centre of Biomedical Ethics and Culture (CBEC) organized two days’ workshop on “Research and Public Health Ethics-The Essentials.” The workshop was facilitated by Alumni of CBEC i.e. Prof. Aamir Jafarey, Ms. Sualeha Shekhani, Dr. Natasha Anwar and Dr. Mariam Hassan, and Dr. Farkhanda Ghafoor. The workshop focused on Ethical Governance, study designs & ethical issues, clinical trials, public health surveillance & public health research, data ownership and privacy concerns. It was attended by 28 registered participants, including members of scientific committee and ethical committee, faculty members, clinicians and research supervisors, from all disciplines of Shalamar Institute of Health Sciences. The participants were enthusiastic and rated the overall workshop as “Excellent”. They reflected that the workshop was a great learning experience which provided them a detailed insight on various aspects of research; they found it useful, informative and well planned. The interactive sessions were challenging as well as captivating as real time case studies were discussed. The participants found the real scenarios pretty helpful in dealing and solving many ethical issues while performing professional responsibilities. Moreover, the participants demanded such workshops to be conducted in future, if not on quarterly basis but at least biannually.
World Diabetes Day 2021
World Diabetes day is celebrated every year on 14th November for the awareness and prevention from diabetes. For this reason, SIDER (Sakina Institute of Diabetes and Endocrine Resarch) department of Shalamar Hospital in collaboration with Business Planning and Development department organized an awareness walk, seminar and free medical camp for the patients in which the patients were educated about preventive measures for diabetes. Patients were offered the facility of blood sugar test along with free medicines. The Chief Executive (CE) of Shalamar Institute of Health Sciences, Brig (Retd.) Anis Ahmed, Principal Shalamar Medical and Dental College (SMDC), Mr. Zahid Bashir, Chief Operating Officer (COO) Shalamar Hospital, Dr. Ayesha Nauman, In charge SIDER, Dr. Maria Javed attended the event along with various doctors, nurses and students of SMDC. Dr. Maria Javed addressing the seminar stressed upon the importance of an awareness campaign about prevention from diabetes which cannot be possible without government`s support. She further added that the prices of the medicines should be controlled so that the patients can easily consume them. Dr. Rozina Arshad told the audience about the SIDER department`s way of working. On this occasion, SIDER`s nutritionist Ms. Asma Shahid said that one of the major reasons of diabetes is unhealthy lifestyle. The Chief Guest of the seminar, Deputy Head of Mission from the German Ambassy, Dr. Philip Deichmann and Chairman Board of Trustees, Mr. Shahid Hussain also addressed the audience. The General Manager Marketing, Mr. Usman Suleman and In charge SIDER, Dr. Maria Javed thanked the pharmaceutical companies, staff members and other guests for their presence at the seminar and camp.
Free Telemedicine Service
Lahore, April 06, 2020: Shalamar Hospital has launched a free online telemedicine service to offer medical advice to patients during the current lock down caused by COVID-19. Senior consultants of Shalamar Hospital will give free professional advice to patients through Skype. This service has been launched to help people receive medical advice at their homes, as due to the current lock down situation they are facing difficulties in going out of their homes. Shalamar Hospital is contributing to the society through this free of cost initiative whereby anyone can visit the dedicated page of telemedicine on the website of Shalamar Hospital for medical advice. Senior consultants of Shalamar Hospital from the department of Medicine, Gynaecology, Cardiology, Surgery and Paediatrics will offer instant medical advice to patients. The service is available everyday except Sunday from 9 am – 2 pm. According to Col. (R) Dr. Tanveer Rana, Chief Operating Officer, Shalamar Hospital, “In this moment of crisis, we stand with the people of Pakistan and we want them to know that Shalamar Hospital is striving to offer them experienced medical advice without the need to stepping out of their homes.” Dr. Tanveer Rana further said, “Using Skype, people can connect with our experienced team of doctors and seek medical advice for free. This will also reduce financial burden on our people.” For free online telemedicine service, patients can visit the website of Shalamar Hospital: https://shalamarhospital.org.pk/telemedicine/
Awareness Session on Acute Medicine and Critical Care
Business Planning and Development Department in collaboration with Acute Medicine and Critical Care Unit conducted an Awareness Session on Acute Medicine and Critical Care. The session was conducted by Prof. Dr. Mujeeb ur Rehman Abid Butt, Dr. Ahmed Nadeem and Dr. Abdul Salam. The Chief Operating Officer (COO) Dr. Tanveer Rana also addressed the audience.