Category Archives: Health

Health, West Bengal

World Hearing Day: Kolkata Hosts Awareness Walk to Address Growing Hearing Health Concerns

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 3, 2025, Kolkata : As hearing problems continue to rise globally, the importance of awareness and early intervention has never been more critical. According to a report by the World Health Organization, approximately 1.5 billion people worldwide suffer from hearing issues, with that number expected to rise to 2.5 billion by 2050. In India alone, around 1.17 lakh children are born each year with congenital hearing impairment. With proper awareness and timely medical attention, many of these problems can be addressed effectively.


In observance of World Hearing Day on March 3, the West Bengal Branch of the Speech and Hearing Association of India organized an awareness walk in Kolkata. The walk, which stretched from Rashbehari Crossing to Gariahat, aimed to raise awareness about hearing health. The event saw participation from speech and hearing specialists, children suffering from hearing impairments, and their families, all walking together to spread the message of the importance of early intervention and hearing care.

This year’s World Hearing Day theme, “Changing Mindsets: Empower Yourself, Make Ear and Hearing Care a Reality for All,” was highlighted by Dr. Md. Sahidul Arefin, Joint Secretary of the Association. He pointed out the significance of Universal Newborn Hearing Screening (UNHS), a simple test that can diagnose hearing issues in infants. While over 98% of newborns in developed countries undergo this screening, in India, only 5-15% of infants receive it. Dr. Arefin emphasized the need for greater awareness to ensure early intervention and better outcomes for children with hearing impairments.

Dr. Babul Basu, former president of the Indian Speech-Language and Hearing Association, spoke about the dangers of excessive noise exposure, unnecessary honking, and loud sounds, urging people to be mindful of these everyday practices that can contribute to hearing loss. Dr. Amrita Bhattacharya, from Shishumangal Hospital, also highlighted the rising concern over excessive headphone use, which is increasingly linked to hearing problems. She urged the public to exercise caution when using headphones to protect their hearing health.

Parents of children who have overcome hearing difficulties shared their personal experiences during the event, encouraging others not to panic in the face of hearing challenges but to seek help from specialists promptly for effective solutions.

World Hearing Day serves as a reminder that hearing health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and through education, awareness, and early intervention, many hearing and speech-related issues can be mitigated. The Kolkata walk marked a significant step in promoting hearing care and supporting those affected by hearing impairments.
Education, Health, West Bengal

Basirhat Students Create Innovative Model to Combat Pollution and Purify Factory Smoke

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 3, 2025, Basirhat : Environmental pollution continues to be one of the most pressing issues of our time, with factory emissions and vehicle exhaust being major contributors. In a bid to tackle this problem, three students from Chapapukur Higher Secondary School in Basirhat, North 24 Parganas, have developed an innovative solution aimed at reducing air pollution caused by factory smoke. Their groundbreaking model has already caught the attention of environmentalists and the public.


The students, hailing from Basirhat 2 Block, designed a special “carbon observer” model that filters polluted smoke produced by factories. The model works by channeling smoke emitted from a factory chimney through a special pipe that passes through a filter-equipped structure. This filter traps harmful substances, including carbon, from the smoke, allowing much of the purified air to be released back into the environment.

According to the students, this dual-purpose innovation offers significant benefits. Firstly, it helps to clean the air by removing toxic pollutants, providing fresher, healthier air for the environment. Secondly, the carbon accumulated in the filter can be repurposed to create useful products, including ink and paint, turning waste into valuable resources.

This remarkable achievement has been lauded by both the local community and school teachers. Environmental experts are particularly impressed with the students’ ingenuity in finding a practical solution to combat pollution. As awareness of environmental issues continues to grow, this student-driven innovation stands as a shining example of how young minds can contribute to solving some of the world’s most urgent challenges.
Health, West Bengal

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to Hold Crucial Meeting with Doctors Amid Healthcare Concerns

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 23, 2025, Kolkata :  Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is set to hold a significant meeting with doctors from government and private hospitals in the state on Monday. The meeting gains importance in the wake of the Ajikar scandal, sparking speculation across various quarters regarding the discussions at Dhandhanya Sabhagriha. Informed circles are questioning whether issues concerning the state’s medical infrastructure will be addressed, while a large section of doctors anticipate discussions on complaints about intimidation practices in medical colleges.


The Grievance and Redressal Committee of the state health department has conducted extensive visits across districts, engaging with doctors associated with medical colleges and district health departments. These discussions have surfaced numerous complaints regarding shortages of resources and medical staff. While some of these concerns have been addressed at the college, district health organization, and chief health officer levels, several systemic issues persist and have been forwarded to the Chief Minister for resolution.

The committee has engaged with doctors from the State Health Service, 24 government and two medical colleges, ESI hospitals, and Kolkata Municipality health facilities. Additionally, discussions have been held with doctors from select private hospitals. The committee has received complaints regarding inadequate infrastructure in district medical colleges, lack of transparency in the posting of doctors, and disruptions in services due to insufficient staffing and equipment. Students and doctors from multiple institutions have also raised concerns about hostel mismanagement, inadequate playgrounds, and substandard toilet facilities. Most of these complaints and recommendations have been formally relayed to the Chief Minister for review.

Committee Chairman Dr. Saurabh Dutta stated that while discussions on institutional concerns have been extensive, the details of what was communicated to the Chief Minister remain confidential and will be disclosed only at her discretion.

Ahead of the meeting, the West Bengal Joint Platform of Doctors has submitted a letter to the Chief Minister highlighting critical vacancies in the healthcare system. The letter points out that approximately 40 percent of doctor positions and nearly 70 percent of support staff posts, including Karmabandhu roles, remain unfilled. Notably, no medical organization has been invited to this crucial meeting between the Chief Minister and representatives from government and private hospitals. The meeting’s outcome is expected to have a significant impact on the state’s healthcare landscape as the government seeks to address mounting concerns ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.
Health, West Bengal

No Bird Flu Threat in Bengal, Poultry Traders Reassure Amid Scare

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 20, 2025, Kolkata :  As fears of a potential bird flu outbreak rise in neighboring Andhra Pradesh, the poultry industry in West Bengal is experiencing a significant drop in demand for chicken and eggs. Amid the panic, traders and experts are trying to allay fears, assuring that the situation in Bengal remains unaffected.

Reports from Andhra Pradesh indicate that a bird flu scare has led to a decline in chicken prices, with many traders in the region expressing concern over their livelihoods. In response to the outbreak, the state government of Andhra Pradesh has taken measures to import chicken and eggs from other states to maintain supply. The ripple effects of this scare are now being felt in nearby regions, with concerns about a similar impact in Bengal growing.

However, Ratan Poddar, the state joint secretary of the West Bengal Poultry Traders Association, sought to ease these concerns. Speaking from Barasat, Poddar reassured the people of Bengal that there is no bird flu in the state at present. He clarified that although the bird flu scare has affected several areas in Andhra Pradesh, it has not spread to West Bengal or its neighboring states, including Odisha, Assam, Bihar, and Chhattisgarh.

Poddar attributed the illness among birds to seasonal changes, noting that just like humans, birds can fall ill during this time, a condition often referred to as bird flu. However, he emphasized that there is no need for panic, as medical science has confirmed that cooking poultry at 65 degrees Celsius eliminates any harmful germs, making it safe to consume. Poddar recommended boiling the meat thoroughly as a precautionary measure, urging the people of Bengal not to worry unnecessarily.

As fears of a widespread outbreak continue to stir, Bengal’s poultry industry remains hopeful, with traders working hard to reassure the public that there is no immediate cause for alarm. The state’s poultry business, however, is keeping a close watch on developments in neighboring regions to mitigate any potential risks.

Health, West Bengal

Expired Saline Linked to Pregnant Woman’s Death at Medinipur Hospital; Health Department Orders Inquiry

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Kolkata:West Bengal has been rocked by a scandal involving expired saline that allegedly led to the death of a pregnant woman at Medinipur Medical College and Hospital. The deceased, Mamoni Rui Das, 21, gave birth to a baby on Wednesday but her condition rapidly worsened on Thursday after being administered the saline. She was moved to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) but tragically succumbed to her condition on Friday. Seven other pregnant women who were also given the same saline are now critically ill and are receiving treatment in the ICU.


The saline in question, Ringer Lactate, was later found to be expired, sparking outrage. Despite the incident, the saline continued to be used in hospitals for several hours. The West Bengal Health Department has since intervened, ordering an immediate inquiry into the matter and calling for the replacement of the existing saline stock with a fresh batch. The department has also demanded a detailed report from the principal of Medinipur Medical College regarding the alleged negligence and an explanation for the stocking of expired saline in the hospital.

In response to the crisis, the health department moved quickly to ban not just Ringer Lactate, but a range of other products from the same company, West Bengal Pharmaceuticals. The company’s products that have been banned include:

Ringer Lactate
Ringer Solution IP Injection
Dextrorose Injection
Mannitol Infusion
Paracetamol Infusion
Ofloxacin
1/2 DNS
Sodium Chloride Irrigation Solution
Pediatric Maintenance Electrolyte Solution

The use of these medications has been halted in hospitals across the state. Efforts are now underway to collect and remove these products from hospital wards.

In the wake of the incident, the hospital authorities have formed a 10-member committee to investigate the cause of the death and the circumstances surrounding the use of expired saline. The health department has also issued a formal ban on saline products manufactured by West Bengal Pharmaceuticals, the company responsible for supplying the contaminated stock.

This latest scandal has drawn attention to the dangers of expired medical products being used in healthcare settings. Last year, similar saline from the same company was linked to the deaths of four individuals in Karnataka. The West Bengal Health Department’s swift response to the crisis underscores the gravity of the situation, as public health safety becomes a key concern for authorities.

Relatives of the affected patients have filed formal complaints with the police, demanding accountability for the negligence that led to the tragic loss of life and critical illnesses. As investigations continue, the health department has promised to take necessary actions to ensure that such incidents are not repeated.
Health, West Bengal

Abhishek Banerjee Inaugurates Sevashray Mega Health Camps in Diamond Harbour to Provide Free Healthcare Services

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 3, 2025, Kolkata – The Sevashray health initiative was officially launched in Diamond Harbour on Thursday, marking a significant step in the region’s healthcare outreach. Abhishek Banerjee, MP and General Secretary of AITMC personally inaugurated the project at the SDO ground, arriving around 9 AM to a warm reception from local administration and grassroots leaders. He was welcomed with an uttariya, a traditional ceremonial garment, before cutting the ribbon and lighting the lamp to signal the commencement of the health camp.


Following the inauguration, Banerjee took a detailed tour of the health camp, inspecting its operations firsthand. He inquired about the specific treatments that would be offered, the availability of doctors, and the logistical details of the camp’s functioning. The MP also focused on ensuring that the camp would have the necessary medical infrastructure and resources, asking thorough questions about the timing of doctor shifts, the treatment protocols, and the overall patient care process.

According to sources, the Sevashray health camps are set to operate for ten days every month in each of the seven assembly constituencies that fall under the Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha seat. Each camp will be staffed by at least two specialist doctors, with approximately 800 doctors expected to participate in the initiative. The first phase of the program will roll out in the Diamond Harbour assembly constituency.

Banerjee emphasized that the Sevashray initiative is aimed at providing free healthcare services to the public. The health camps will offer a range of services, including free medicine distribution, diagnostic tests, referral services, and an app-based registration system that will provide real-time updates. These camps will be open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, beginning Thursday, January 3, and will continue until January 11.

Banerjee, in his remarks, stressed the importance of accessible healthcare and the need for such initiatives in underserved regions. He further mentioned plans to visit the health camps in Blocks 1 and 2 of the Diamond Harbour constituency to ensure that the services are being provided effectively. The initiative is expected to benefit a large number of residents in the area, offering essential medical support at no cost to the community.
Health, Politics, West Bengal

Abhishek Banerjee to Launch ‘Sevashray’ Mobile Health Camp in Diamond Harbour on January 2

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, December 29, 2024 : Trinamool Congress All India General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee is set to inaugurate a major healthcare initiative, Sevashray, in Diamond Harbour on January 2, marking the launch of a mobile hospital project aimed at providing essential health services across his parliamentary constituency. This initiative, which aims to offer free medical care and diagnostics to residents, will kick off with an inaugural ceremony at the SDO Ground in Diamond Harbour.


The Sevashray health camp is the brainchild of Abhishek Banerjee and will run from January 2 to 11 as part of its first phase. The program is designed to benefit the seven assembly constituencies under Banerjee’s jurisdiction, offering mobile healthcare services to thousands of people. The camps will provide a range of medical services, including general medicine, diagnostic tests, and specialty consultations, free of cost.

According to Banerjee, general medicine doctors will be available for seven days in each constituency, while the remaining three days will feature specialized care from super-specialty doctors. In total, there are plans for 40 health camps each day across the constituency, with more than 800 doctors expected to participate in the 75-day program. The camps will feature portable diagnostic tools such as ECG machines and offer services like blood tests. If any health issues are detected, immediate diagnosis and treatment will be provided, along with free medicines.

In addition to healthcare services, the camps will utilize an app-based registration system, providing real-time updates for attendees and a dedicated emergency help desk. This initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the local community by making healthcare more accessible, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

Abhishek Banerjee’s decision to personally inaugurate the Sevashray initiative has raised questions, as it marks a significant departure from the usual protocol where similar projects are launched by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. While the Chief Minister has inaugurated various welfare programs throughout Bengal, the launch of this mobile health initiative by a Member of Parliament underscores Abhishek Banerjee’s increasing involvement in regional development projects, particularly in his constituency.

This move is likely to enhance his political profile, especially ahead of upcoming elections, as it reflects a direct commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure in his constituency. The Sevashray project aims to bridge gaps in healthcare access and is expected to provide a much-needed boost to public health services in the region.
Health, National

Study finds sleep helps with learning new language

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PTI, December 05, 2024, New Delhi : Getting those eight hours of sleep can have linguistic benefits, according to a study that found it helped adults speak a new language.

    
While one sleeps, the brain is known to integrate or ‘consolidate’ information learnt during the day with previous knowledge to file it for long-term storage.

Researchers, led by those at the University of South Australia, tracked brain activity in 35 native English-speaking adults as they were learning a miniature language called ‘Mini Pinyin’, which is based on Mandarin but has grammatical rules similar to English.

A miniature language is used in scientific experiments for studying aspects related to learning languages.

Mini Pinyin “mimics natural language as it is based on an existing language (Mandarin Chinese) and includes both structure and meaning”, according to a 2020 study published in the journal Behavior Research Methods and written by researchers at the University of South Australia.

In this study published in the Journal of Neuroscience, half the participants learnt Mini Pinyin in the morning and returned in the evening to have their memory tested, the researchers said.

The other half learnt Mini Pinyin in the evening and then slept in the laboratory overnight, while having their brain activity recorded. The team tested the participants’ progress in the morning.

Those who slept were found to perform significantly better, compared to those who remained awake before having their memory tested.

“We found that sleep relative to wake was associated with superior performance for rules that followed a sequence-based word order,” the authors wrote.

Improvements in memory because of sleep were related to the linking of slow oscillations and sleep spindles, which are brainwave patterns that synchronise during the non-REM phase of sleep, according to lead researcher Zachariah Cross, who did his PhD from the University of South Australia.

Non-rapid eye movement (REM) sleep is the restful phase of sleep when eyes stop moving and during which muscles relax, and brain activity, breathing and heart rate slow down.

“This coupling (linking) likely reflects the transfer of learned information from the hippocampus to the cortex, enhancing long-term memory storage,” Cross said.

“Post-sleep neural activity showed unique patterns of theta oscillations associated with cognitive control and memory consolidation, suggesting a strong link between sleep-induced brainwave co-ordination and learning outcomes,” the lead researcher said.

The researchers also said the findings could potentially inform treatments for individuals with language-related impairments, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and aphasia, who experience greater sleep disturbances than other adults.

Increasing slow oscillations could accelerate aphasia-based speech and language therapy, Cross said.
Health, National, Regional, States

Study finds how pollution can increase risk of inflammation pregnancy complications

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PTI, December 02, 2024, New Delhi : Exposure to PM2.5 pollution could lead to higher inflammation levels among pregnant women potentially resulting in adverse birth outcomes, such as low birth weight and preterm birth, according to a study examining how pollution alters human DNA.

     
The findings, published in the journal Science Advances, provided a new understanding of the biological routes through which air pollution affects pregnancy and birth outcomes, researchers said.

Particulate matter (PM) 2.5 pollution is caused by particles sized 2.5 micrometres or less. Common sources are vehicular and industrial emissions, while natural ones can include carbon from wildfires and dust.

The study, led by Harvard University’s School of Public Health, US, found that exposure to PM2.5 can influence the histones of pregnant women. Histones are proteins found in chromosomes, vital to DNA structure and cell function.

Air pollution can, thus, disrupt the normal balance of cytokine genes — genes involved in producing immune responses — and lead to increased inflammation in both women and foetuses, the researchers said.

Among pregnant women, the increased inflammation could be related to adverse pregnancy outcomes, they said.

“Our findings highlight the importance of minimising air pollution exposure in pregnant women to protect maternal and foetal health,” co-author Youn Soo Jung, a research associate at Harvard University’s School of Public Health, said.

“Policy interventions to improve air quality as well as clinical guidelines to help pregnant women reduce their exposure to pollution could have a direct impact on reducing pregnancy complications,” Soo Jung said.

While previous studies have found links between PM2.5 exposure and complications in maternal and child health including low birth weight and developmental delays, the study is the first to examine the effects of PM2.5 on maternal and foetal health at a cell level, the authors said.

The study involved both non-pregnant women and 20-week pregnant women. Average exposure to PM2.5 was calculated using air quality data from the US Environmental Protection Agency.

Within each cell, the researchers were able to map changes to histones — the proteins that help control the release of cytokines, which are known to help regulate inflammation.

“These modifications in specific histones and cytokines could indicate the toxicological mechanism of PM2.5 exposure in inflammation, inflammasome pathway, and pregnancy complications,” the authors wrote.
Crime, Health, West Bengal

Violence Erupts at Vidyasagar Hospital in Behala Over Patient’s Death, 22 Arrested

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, November 23, 2024, Kolkata :

 A tragic and chaotic incident unfolded at Vidyasagar Hospital in Behala late Friday night, following the death of a patient who had suffered a heart attack. What started as a desperate attempt by the hospital staff to save the life of Sheikh Mehmud Alam quickly escalated into a violent mob attack that saw over 150 people storm the hospital’s emergency department, vandalizing property, assaulting medical staff, and causing panic among patients.

According to hospital sources, Sheikh Mehmud Alam, a resident of Thakur Pukur, was brought to Vidyasagar Hospital at around 8:00 pm on Friday, suffering from a severe heart attack. Despite receiving immediate medical attention, including two rounds of CPR, Alam’s condition deteriorated. At 8:50 pm, he was declared dead.

As word of Alam’s death spread, his family and a group of local residents gathered at the hospital, alleging medical negligence and demanding access to the hospital’s medical records. However, hospital authorities refused to release any documents without court approval, as per standard procedure. This refusal sparked anger among the relatives and a mob of approximately 150 people, who, by 10:00 pm, had entered the hospital’s emergency department.

The situation quickly turned violent. The rioters, accusing the hospital staff of negligence, caused widespread damage to hospital property, including medicine and equipment. In a disturbing turn of events, the nursing staff was physically assaulted, and three nurses were injured in the attack. Sources confirmed that the rioters had destroyed a significant amount of medical supplies, including vital injections and medicines.

In the midst of the chaos, hospital staff were forced to relocate patients to safer areas. However, the violence did not stop there. During the commotion, an 85-year-old patient named Shanti Sinha, who was receiving treatment at the hospital, reportedly died. It is unclear whether her death was directly linked to the incident, but the disruption certainly exacerbated the situation, causing additional distress to patients and staff. Some patients, in a state of panic, fled from their beds, further compounding the emergency response.

Police Intervention and Arrests

The situation only calmed when a large police force from Parnasree Police Station was deployed to control the mob and restore order. The police arrested 22 individuals involved in the violence, charging them with vandalism, assault, and other offenses related to the disturbance. Authorities have assured the public that an investigation is underway to determine the full extent of the incident and to hold those responsible accountable.

In a statement, the superintendent of Vidyasagar Hospital condemned the attack, noting that the rioters had not only caused physical damage but also put the lives of other patients at risk by disrupting medical services. “The rioters have destroyed a lot of medication and injections. This will impact the hospital’s ability to provide immediate care to other patients in need,” the superintendent said.

This incident underscores the growing tension between healthcare providers and the public in certain areas of West Bengal. While healthcare workers continue to be under immense pressure to provide care, especially in emergency situations, accusations of negligence and the increasing number of violent protests by agitated relatives of patients are raising alarms. The incident at Vidyasagar Hospital also highlights the broader issue of how the public perceives the quality of medical care in government hospitals and the tragic consequences that often arise when patients do not survive their medical crises.

The police investigation is ongoing, with officers reviewing CCTV footage and gathering witness accounts. Initial reports suggest that the violence was instigated by the family members of the deceased patient, but further inquiries will seek to establish the full circumstances surrounding the riot. Hospital authorities have also promised to cooperate with law enforcement in identifying those responsible for the destruction and the assault on medical staff.

The incident has left many questions unanswered. Was there a failure in the hospital’s emergency care? Could the situation have been handled differently? And, most importantly, how can hospitals and law enforcement work together to prevent such violence in the future?

As authorities work to piece together the facts, Vidyasagar Hospital and its staff are left grappling with the aftermath of an incident that has shaken the local community and drawn attention to the challenges faced by medical institutions in the region. The tragedy of Sheikh Mehmud Alam’s death has now been overshadowed by the violence that followed, and the incident will likely serve as a stark reminder of the need for greater accountability, better communication, and a more supportive environment for both healthcare workers and patients alike.
 
Crime, Health, International, National

Johnson & Johnson Faces ₹180 Crore Fine Over Asbestos Allegations in Baby Powder Case

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Delhi, November 10, 2024: Johnson & Johnson, the renowned healthcare giant known for its baby powder, has been hit with a significant legal ruling, ordered to pay ₹180 crore (USD 24 million) in damages after a Connecticut court found its iconic product contained harmful asbestos. The case, filed by plaintiff Ivan Plotkin, who developed mesothelioma—a rare cancer linked to asbestos—after using the baby powder, has raised serious concerns about the safety of the product.


Plotkin claimed that years of using Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder led to his diagnosis, and his legal team argued that the product was contaminated with asbestos fibers, posing a health risk. Despite Johnson & Johnson’s defense that their product was asbestos-free, the court sided with the plaintiff, highlighting the potential dangers of the company’s talc-based powder.


The lawsuit focuses on allegations that Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder contained trace amounts of asbestos, a carcinogen known to cause cancer. These claims are not new; previous investigations have uncovered evidence that the company’s talc products were, at times, contaminated with asbestos between the 1970s and early 2000s. In fact, internal documents from Johnson & Johnson revealed that several tests showed contamination with asbestos, a fact not disclosed to the public or regulatory bodies.

The company has consistently denied these claims, maintaining that its baby powder is safe and free of asbestos. Johnson & Johnson’s defense also argues that independent scientific evaluations confirm the safety of their product.

This ruling is just the latest chapter in a series of lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson over its talc-based products. The company has faced over 61,000 lawsuits from individuals claiming their talc products caused cancers like ovarian cancer and mesothelioma. In 2018, a Missouri court awarded nearly $4.7 billion in damages to 22 women who alleged the powder contributed to their ovarian cancer.

Johnson & Johnson has withdrawn its talc-based products from the U.S. market in 2020 but continues to face legal scrutiny worldwide, particularly in markets like India and Bangladesh, where the baby powder has been widely used for decades.

Johnson & Johnson is currently engaged in bankruptcy proceedings to manage its talc-related liabilities, including a nearly $9 billion settlement attempt for ovarian cancer claims. However, mesothelioma cases like Plotkin’s are not part of this settlement, and the company faces continued litigation.

Despite the legal pressure, Johnson & Johnson has vowed to appeal the ruling and maintain that its talc products are safe, asserting that the verdict is “irreconcilable with decades of scientific evidence.” The company is also dealing with a $700 million settlement in the U.S., addressing accusations from 42 states over misleading consumers about the safety of its talc-based products.

As the company faces mounting legal and reputational challenges, the public’s concern over the safety of its once-legendary baby powder continues to grow. The outcome of this ongoing litigation will likely have significant implications for the future of Johnson & Johnson and its iconic product line.
Health, West Bengal

Hooghly Chinsurah Municipal Health Center Honored with National Quality Certification Amid Statewide Concerns

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, November 3, 2024, Hooghly : In a time when the state grapples with turmoil over the RG tax and rising concerns about women’s safety, the Hooghly Chinsurah Municipal Health Center has emerged as a beacon of excellence by receiving a prestigious quality certification from the Union government.


During a recent visit from October 23-25, a two-member team from the Ministry of Health’s National Health System Resource Centre conducted a rigorous evaluation of the municipal health center, specifically at the UPHC-3 facility located in Mallikkashem Hat at Saira More. The assessment involved a thorough examination of various operational aspects, including consultations with doctors and nurses, inspections of medical supplies, and the evaluation of patient treatment protocols.

The external survey meticulously reviewed the health center’s medication practices, ensuring that no expired medicines were in circulation, and assessed the overall quality of care provided to patients. Following this comprehensive evaluation, the health center received the National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) certificate, a significant recognition that underscores its commitment to delivering high-quality health services.

“This certification is not just an honor for our facility but also a source of motivation for all health centers in the region to elevate their standards of care,” said Jaydev Adhikari, Chairman in Council of the Municipal Health Department. “We hope this recognition will inspire other facilities to strive for excellence and improve health services across the board.”

The recognition comes at a critical juncture for health services in the region, highlighting the capacity for improvement and the dedication of local health workers to meet national standards. The Hooghly Chinsurah Municipal Health Center stands out as an example of what can be achieved even amidst challenges, reaffirming the importance of quality health care in fostering community well-being.
Health, West Bengal

On World Stroke Day, Experts Call for Urgent Inclusion of Speech Pathologists in Stroke Care Across India

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 29, 2024, Kolkata: At 62, Geeta Devi’s life changed drastically when she suffered a cerebral stroke three years ago. Initially marked by confusion in speech, her condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to unconsciousness. Though she survived and returned home after an extended hospital stay, her ability to speak remains severely impaired, a reality faced by countless stroke survivors in India. As World Stroke Day is observed today, her story underscores the pressing need for better speech rehabilitation care for stroke patients across the country.


Each year, millions die globally from strokes, with many survivors living with long-term disabilities, including speech and language impairments. According to The Lancet Neurology (2019), at least 15 million people are affected worldwide each year, with India accounting for an estimated 1.8 million cases. Dr. Moh Shahidul Arefin, a speech pathologist at Kolkata’s SSKM Hospital, explained that approximately 50% of stroke patients experience speech or language issues, and up to 60% develop swallowing difficulties, a condition known as dysphagia. “Dysphagia can lead to complications like aspirated pneumonia, which can be fatal if untreated. Studies show that addressing dysphagia early with a speech pathologist could lower pneumonia risk by 45%,” Dr. Arefin emphasized, citing research from the American Journal of Medicine (2021).

Internationally, speech pathologists are an integral part of stroke recovery teams in countries such as the USA, UK, and Australia. These countries follow American Stroke Association and NHS guidelines that recommend consulting a speech pathologist within 24 to 48 hours of a stroke diagnosis. Evidence shows that including speech pathologists from the start significantly reduces the duration and cost of hospital stays, helps in quicker recovery, and prevents long-term communication disabilities.

However, India has yet to integrate speech pathologists into stroke care comprehensively. Only 25% of hospitals in India employ full-time speech pathologists within ICU specialist teams, leaving many stroke survivors without adequate rehabilitation support. This gap in care often leads to lifelong disabilities that could otherwise be mitigated. Recognizing this shortfall, the West Bengal branch of the All India Speech and Hearing Association has appealed to state health authorities, urging the government to prioritize stroke recovery by integrating speech pathology services into ICU protocols.

On this World Stroke Day, the Association’s General Secretary has formally addressed the state’s Health Secretary and Chief Secretary, highlighting the need for public awareness and government action. “Early intervention with speech pathologists is crucial,” he stated. “The government must adopt the protocols followed in developed countries to provide stroke patients with the best chance for recovery.”

Advocates call for policies that ensure every stroke patient in ICU has immediate access to speech pathologists, both during treatment and throughout recovery. By addressing the need for dedicated speech rehabilitation in hospitals and educating the public, they believe India could transform stroke recovery outcomes and help patients like Geeta Devi regain their quality of life.
Crime, Health, Regional, West Bengal

Tragedy Strikes at Debra Super Specialty Hospital: Woman Dies After Childbirth, Family Alleges Medical Negligence

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 22, 2024, West Medinipur : Tensions flared at Debra Super Specialty Hospital after a 23-year-old woman, Mamni Sardar Singh, tragically died following complications from childbirth. The young mother was admitted to the hospital in labor on Monday evening, and while she successfully gave birth to a baby girl, she began experiencing severe bleeding shortly after the delivery. Despite the medical team’s efforts, Mamni passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, around 2:00 a.m., leaving her grieving family devastated.


According to hospital sources, the patient was taken to the operating theater (OT) for delivery when her labor pains intensified. Dr. Atanu Samant, the doctor on duty, performed the operation. However, shortly after the delivery, Mamni experienced excessive bleeding, which could not be controlled, leading to her untimely death.

The grieving family has accused the hospital staff, particularly Dr. Samant and the attending nurses, of negligence, claiming that Mamni’s death was the result of improper treatment. Tension erupted on the hospital premises early Tuesday morning as news of the incident spread. Family members and local residents gathered, demanding accountability for what they believe was a preventable death.

The patient’s family has since filed a formal complaint with the hospital superintendent, urging a thorough investigation and calling for strict action against the doctor and nurses involved. “We lost her because of negligence. This is unacceptable,” a family member said. They have called for the responsible parties to be held accountable for the tragedy.

In response to the incident, local BJP leader Kashinath Bose sharply criticized the hospital, accusing it of failing to provide adequate care. “Debra Super Specialty Hospital is notorious for referring patients to the district hospital instead of treating them properly. This negligence has now cost a young woman her life,” Bose stated. He called for immediate punitive action against those responsible for the death, emphasizing the need for systemic improvements in the hospital’s care standards.

The incident has stirred significant unrest in the local community, with calls for better healthcare services in the area and heightened scrutiny over the hospital’s practices. Police were deployed to the hospital on Tuesday morning to prevent any escalation, ensuring the situation remained under control.

Meanwhile, hospital authorities have assured that an internal investigation will be conducted to determine the exact cause of Mamni’s death and to address the family’s allegations. Local residents, however, remain skeptical, with many questioning the hospital’s capabilities to handle critical cases.

As the family mourns the loss of Mamni Sardar Singh, the focus now shifts to ensuring that justice is served and that such tragedies are prevented in the future. The incident has also reignited discussions about the state of healthcare in rural areas, with increasing pressure on authorities to improve facilities and staff accountability at hospitals like Debra Super Specialty.
Health, Politics, West Bengal

Patient Services Disrupted Across Kolkata as Senior Doctors Begin 48-Hour Strike in Solidarity with Junior Colleagues

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 15, 2024, Kolkata: Private hospitals across Kolkata faced severe disruption in patient services as senior doctors launched a 48-hour partial work break in support of junior doctors. The strike, called by two prominent organizations—the Federation of Medical Associations and Healthcare Professionals—began at 6 AM on Monday and is set to continue until 6 AM on Wednesday.


The protest, aimed at pressing the state government to address the demands of junior doctors, has led to a halt in outpatient department (OPD) services at most private hospitals, as well as the cancellation of numerous scheduled surgeries. While emergency services remained functional at hospitals like The Woodlands, Bellevue, and Peerless, overall patient attendance plummeted, indicating the widespread impact of the work stoppage.

At Bellevue Clinic, 40 scheduled surgeries were canceled on the first day of the strike, with only 10 emergency surgeries going ahead. Woodland Hospital reported a similar situation, canceling 16 surgeries while conducting just 3 urgent cath lab procedures. OPD services were also heavily affected, with Peerless Hospital seeing only 92 patients compared to its usual daily average of 800. The hospital reported that on the same day last year, 250 patients had visited the OPD, highlighting the drastic reduction in patient care during the strike.

Patients across the city were left stranded as various medical services, including scheduled surgeries and consultations, were suspended. Many had to return without receiving the treatment they had been waiting for. “I had an appointment scheduled for today after waiting for weeks, and now I have no idea when I’ll get treated,” said one frustrated patient outside Peerless Hospital.

The senior doctors, backing their junior counterparts, expressed frustration over the state government’s lack of action in addressing the demands raised by the junior doctors, who have been protesting for improved working conditions and safety following recent incidents in hospitals. “The state government has not yet accepted the demands of the junior doctors. We want immediate action,” said a senior doctor participating in the strike. Both the doctors’ organizations leading the protest have reiterated this demand.

The strike has created uncertainty for patients and hospitals alike. With thousands relying on the city’s private healthcare system, the disruption of services over the two-day period is expected to result in a backlog of medical appointments and rescheduled surgeries. Healthcare professionals have expressed concern that this could strain the system further in the coming days once normal operations resume.

Though emergency services remain available at key hospitals, the overall reduction in patient care has raised concerns about the impact on individuals requiring routine but important treatments. The outcome of the ongoing strike and whether it will lead to any concessions from the state government remains to be seen. As the work stoppage continues, Kolkata’s healthcare landscape faces a challenging couple of days ahead.
Crime, Health, West Bengal

Shocking Violence Erupts at SSKM Hospital: Community Calls for Action and Accountabilitying Violence Erupts at SSKM Hospital: Community Calls for Action and Accountability

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 13, 2024, Kolkata : A disturbing incident of violence unfolded at SSKM Hospital early Sunday morning, raising serious concerns about safety and security in healthcare settings. A group of 15 to 20 individuals, armed with hockey sticks and cricket bats, stormed the hospital premises around 7 a.m., leading to a brutal assault on a patient’s relative.


The victim, identified as Sourav Modak, was outside the hospital’s trauma care unit when he was suddenly attacked by the group. Eyewitnesses report that he was dragged away and subjected to a severe beating, leaving him with critical injuries. Despite the presence of police officers at the scene, allegations have surfaced that they did not intervene during the violent episode, prompting questions about their role and effectiveness in maintaining public safety.

Local sources suggest that the violence may stem from an ongoing feud between two groups; however, the motive for targeting Modak specifically remains unclear. Following the attack, he was rushed back into the trauma care unit for emergency treatment.

This shocking event has led to widespread outrage in the community, with many calling for immediate action to enhance security protocols at hospitals and ensure the safety of patients and their families. The public is demanding accountability from law enforcement to prevent such incidents from recurring in the future.

In response to the incident, hospital officials have expressed their deep concern and are reviewing security measures to better protect patients and visitors. Community leaders are also urging local authorities to take a proactive stance against violence in public spaces, particularly in healthcare settings where vulnerable individuals seek care and support.

As investigations continue, the focus is now on establishing a safer environment in healthcare facilities. This incident highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to tackling violence and ensuring that hospitals remain sanctuaries for healing, not sites of conflict. The community stands united in advocating for reforms that prioritize safety, accountability, and the well-being of all who enter these vital institutions.
Health, Politics, West Bengal

Junior Doctors Intensify Protests as IMA Calls for Symbolic Fast Amid Growing Agitation

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 13, 2024, Kolkata: In a decisive move, junior doctors have escalated their protests by sending a strong letter to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, warning that their ongoing hunger strike could spark a larger movement if their demands are not swiftly addressed. The letter emphasizes the seriousness of their situation, urging immediate government intervention to resolve the impasse that has left them fighting for essential reforms.


The hunger strike, led by junior doctors from various institutions, including EMS and Chandigarh PGI, focuses on a comprehensive 10-point demand list aimed at improving safety and working conditions. The striking doctors have made it clear that they will continue their hunger strike until their demands are met, further highlighting their commitment to advocating for their rights and the welfare of patients.

In solidarity with the junior doctors, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) Bengal has organized a symbolic 12-hour fast today, demonstrating the collective concern of the medical community regarding the ongoing crisis. This show of unity underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate dialogue between the government and healthcare professionals.

As tensions rise, the eyes of the public and the medical community are now on the government to take prompt action. The junior doctors remain resolute, determined to make their voices heard and ensure that their demands for a safer working environment are prioritized.