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Pervasive Developmental Disorder

Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) – Get your facts right!

Feb 23rd, 2016

Archive for February, 2016

Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) – Get your facts right!

Tuesday, February 23rd, 2016

It is extremely traumatizing for any parent to hear that their child has a disability . For many, this information comes as a sudden shock, so much so that they lose the ability to think clearly. In an attempt to cope with their own pain and frustrations, parents often end up ignoring the special needs of their child. With result-oriented, comprehensive care people with developmental disabilities can be more active, productive, and independent.

The early years of a child’s life are very important for his/her overall health and development. Developmental disorders are a group of childhood neurological conditions that develop over time and cause impairment in mental, emotional, behavioral, and physical features.

One such form of disability also known as the Pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) impedes an individual’s ability to develop normal communication and socialization skills. Autism , Rett Syndrome, Childhood disintegrative disorder and Asperger syndrome are all categorized as a form of Pervasive developmental disorder (PDD). Although this illness doesn’t physically affect an individual, it does have a significant impact on his/her behavior.

Symptoms

In order to commence with the treatment, it is extremely important for family & relatives to spot the warning signs of this developmental disability. Common symptoms associated with a PDD include:

  • Recurring behavior or body movements (For Ex – rocking back and forth)
  • Difficulty in comprehending language and speech development
  • Inability to deal changes in daily routine
  • Difficulty in adjusting in a new surrounding
  • Inability to relate to people, normal tasks, and objects
  • Strange behavior with regard to objects and toys
Diagnosis

If monitored closely, a child’s behavior can give several clues about his/her physical & psychological condition. Although, the symptoms of a pervasive developmental disorder become visible right from infancy, they are often overlooked due to ignorance and lack of awareness about the same. This developmental disability can strike from birth or any time before the child turns 3. Accurate diagnoses could be a tricky task as the assessment is based on behavioral analysis rather than medical tests. A pervasive developmental disorder therefore has to be diagnosed only by a qualified specialist.

Treatment

There is no permanent cure for a Pervasive Developmental Disorder however medications can be extremely helpful in coping with some of the behavioral problems associated with it. In addition to medication, a specialized therapy will further benefit the individual in developing some social skills

Those diagnosed with this disability almost always have a normal mental function with few even demonstrating a high intelligence quotient (IQ). With comprehensive care and medical assistance, children with disorders can function reasonably well in a normal school setting while others may have to opt for specialized teaching, which caters to their needs

If your child is diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental Disorder , it is not the end of the world. With continued progression in the world of science & medicine, there is no reason why an individual with this disability cannot live a normal life in the near future. As a parent, you know your child better enough to gauge if he/she is or isn’t showing age-appropriate behavior. If you’re concerned that your child has developmental delay, don’t hesitate to share your doubts with an expert healthcare provider

The Department of Developmental Disorders at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital takes a multi-disciplinary approach that is aimed at early & accurate diagnosis, followed by personalized medical and therapeutic care.

To know more, visit:

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/developmentdisorders.html

Tips to combat cold & flu

Wednesday, February 17th, 2016

With winter chills re-entering the city, cases of viral fever and flu seem to have doubled in the past few weeks. Medical dispensaries and clinics are flooded with patients showing symptoms of common cold, flu and viral infection. While the temperature outside keeps fluctuating by the day, it is extremely vital to ensure that your body is equipped to cope with the dramatic climate changes.

Even though you may feel like chilling out & enjoying the pleasant weather, make sure you do not neglect your health in the process. Breeze through this season and keep those winter health woes at bay with these simple tips

Practice good hygiene and get into the habit of washing your hands frequently. This habit could easily prove to be one of the most effective ways of preventing diseases, especially the ones that are contagious. A powerful sneeze or cough sends an aerosol spray that contains millions of virus particles, which remain suspended in the air for a while. People within range of the spray inhale the virus and fall ill after getting infected. Viruses cling to and remain active for several hours on bare hands hence don’t use your hands to cover up your mouth while coughing and sneezing. Instead, use tissues for the same. Also, carry & use a hand sanitizer while visiting public places.

When you feel those first cold symptoms, increase your fluid intake. Drinking plenty of water keeps your system moving so that it can discard what’s not needed. Phlegm can be pushed out of the body only if you are sufficiently hydrated

Take good care of your Immune system. Fill-up your grocery bag with lots of fresh fruits & veggies, especially those that are rich in Vitamin A, C & E. If your immune system is strong enough, it becomes easier to combat many infection & illnesses.

Get plenty of sleep. When you are asleep, the body releases certain chemicals into your system which is known to benefit the immune system. In the absence of adequate sleep, your immune system takes a serious hit, making you more vulnerable to minor ailments like cold & flu.

Seasonal changes have long been associated with sickness. These measures will help you combat bacterial infections and safeguard your health

ZIKA Virus – Get your facts right

Tuesday, February 9th, 2016
Did you know…?

India has had a history of ZIKA virus attacks as early as in the 1950s.

ZIKA Virus is transmitted via the Aedes Aegypti mosquito which also carries dengue and chikungunya viruses. Since May 2015, the ZIKA infection has reportedly spread in 24 countries and territories of America.

ZIKA virus commands attention because it is known to trigger birth defects and neurological problems in newborns. Although in India, there have been no cases or medical emergencies caused by the ZIKA virus so far, we also cannot deny the fact that our fertile climate & environment is conducive for the growth and multiplication of the Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Rising temperatures across India could work in the favor of this mosquito breed, making it easier for them to reproduce & spread the virus. As of now, there is no vaccine or medication to prevent or cure the ZIKA infection and considering the number of dengue cases in India, there is certainly a cause for concern because the mosquito that carries this virus actually thrives in our country.

Here are a few essential facts about the ZIKA virus/infection

ZIKA virus is most commonly transmitted when an Aedes mosquito bites an infected person and then spreads the virus by biting others. It can also be transferred sexually as the virus is known to remain active within an infected person’s semen for a long time

If a person is infected with the ZIKA virus, he/she may have mild fever, headache, skin rash, muscle, joint pain, malaise and conjunctivitis that could last for 2 to 7 days. 80% of those infected never know they have the disease because of delayed detection & treatment owing to its resemblance with flu-like symptoms. Screening is thus important.

Getting plenty of rest with sufficient intake of fluid to prevent dehydration is known to be highly effective in treating this illness

Infected people shouldn’t consume Aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Pregnant women fall under the high-risk group as the ZIKA virus is known to cause brain defects in unborn babies

With no treatment or vaccine available, the only protection against the ZIKA infection is through awareness. Here are a few precautionary measures to prevent the spread of this virus:

Surprising as it may sound, Aedes aegypti mosquitoes that carry the ZIKA virus do not breed in stale water but use fresh water stored in flowerpot, cooler, water puddle etc. as their breeding grounds. Do not let clean water accumulate at any place in the house. These mosquitoes are highly active during the day therefore necessary measures should be taken to keep them away. Keeping your environment clean & hygienic is the most effective way to prevent this disease.

Use bed nets and mosquito repellents to protect yourself from mosquito bites. Cover the exposed areas of your skin with adequate clothing before venturing outdoors as Aedes Aegypti is a day-biting mosquito

Grow plants such as citronella, basil, lemon grass, lavender, mint, rosemary etc. in your home in order to repel mosquitoes

It would be favorable for people especially for pregnant women and women who are planning to bear a child in the near future to avoid travelling to affected areas such as Latin American countries like Brazil, and the Caribbean for some time until the situation is brought under control

Travelers suffering from of high/mild fever within two weeks of return from an affected country should report to the nearest health facility

The ZIKA virus is constantly progressing and with World Health Organization (WHO) announcing it as an international public health emergency, India needs to be extremely cognizant about the spread of this disease.

Reference material

 Everyday Tips for Cancer Prevention

Tuesday, February 2nd, 2016

Cancer remains one of India’s leading health concerns, with lakhs of new cases diagnosed every year. It’s natural to feel anxious about a disease that can affect anyone, but here’s the reassuring part: experts estimate that a significant share of cancers are linked to lifestyle factors, which means cancer prevention is, to a large extent, within your control.

You don’t need a complete life overhaul to lower your risk. Small, consistent changes to your diet, habits, and daily routine can make a real difference over time. In this guide, we break down practical, everyday tips for cancer prevention, the best foods to prevent cancer, and the precautions worth building into your lifestyle, so you can make informed choices for yourself and your family.

Can Cancer Be Prevented?

This is one of the most common questions people ask, and the honest answer is: not all cancers can be prevented, but many can be. Cancer develops when normal cells undergo genetic changes that cause them to grow uncontrollably. Some of these changes are inherited or happen randomly, and are outside anyone’s control. However, a large proportion of known cancer risk factors, including smoking, poor diet, physical inactivity, excess alcohol consumption, and prolonged sun exposure are directly tied to daily habits.

This is why the prevention of cancer is best understood as risk reduction rather than a guarantee. By addressing modifiable risk factors, going for regular screenings, and catching warning signs early, you can meaningfully lower your chances of developing several common cancers, including breast, lung, colorectal, oral, and skin cancer. Specialists at a dedicated cancer hospital in Mumbai can help translate this general risk reduction approach into a screening plan suited to your own history. Early detection also dramatically improves treatment outcomes, which is why prevention and timely screening go hand in hand.

 How to Prevent Cancer Naturally ?

Wondering how to prevent cancer naturally, without relying on complicated regimens? These everyday habits are backed by consistent medical guidance and are easy to build into your routine:

  • Make smarter food choices: Base your meals around fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Cut back on salty, fatty, and heavily processed foods, and if you eat non vegetarian food, limit red and processed meat.
  • Watch your sugar intake: Excess sugar consumption is linked to obesity and inflammation, both of which are known cancer risk factors. Cutting down on added sugar supports overall metabolic health and reduces this risk.
  • Stay well hydrated: Drinking adequate water throughout the day helps dilute the concentration of harmful substances in urine and flush them out efficiently, which may lower the risk of bladder cancer.
  • Stay physically active: Just 30 minutes of moderate daily activity including, walking, cycling, swimming, or yoga can meaningfully lower your cancer risk. Regular exercise also helps maintain a healthy body weight, which is linked to a reduced risk of breast, colon, lung, prostate, and kidney cancers.
  • Limit screen and mobile phone exposure: While research is still evolving, minimizing unnecessary radiation exposure from prolonged mobile phone use, especially close to the head is a simple precaution worth taking.
  • Moderate your tea and coffee intake: Excessive consumption of highly acidic beverages like tea and coffee on an empty stomach can irritate the digestive tract over time. Having a glass of water beforehand and keeping intake moderate is a sensible habit.
  • Prioritize sleep and manage stress: Chronic stress and poor sleep quality affect immune function over time, indirectly influencing overall disease risk, including cancer.

Foods That Prevent Cancer

Diet plays a genuinely significant role in long term health, and building a cancer prevention diet doesn’t require anything exotic, just a consistent focus on whole, minimally processed foods. Here are some of the best foods to prevent cancer that you can easily include in your everyday meals:

  • Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts): Rich in compounds that support the body’s natural detoxification processes.
  • Berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries): Packed with antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
  • Leafy greens (spinach, methi, amaranth): High in vitamins, minerals, and fibre that support overall cellular health.
  • Turmeric and garlic: Widely used in Indian kitchens, both contain compounds studied for their anti inflammatory and protective properties.
  • Tomatoes: A good source of lycopene, an antioxidant associated with reduced risk of certain cancers.
  • Whole grains and legumes (brown rice, oats, dals, chickpeas): High in fibre, which supports digestive health and helps maintain a healthy weight.
  • Nuts and seeds (walnuts, flaxseeds, almonds): Provide healthy fats and nutrients linked to reduced inflammation.
  • Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines): A good source of omega 3 fatty acids, beneficial for overall health.
  • Green tea: Contains polyphenols that are being studied for their protective, antioxidant effects.

Aim to build your plate around variety and colour rather than any single “superfood”; a consistently balanced diet offers far more protection than occasional health fads.

Precautions for Cancer Prevention

Alongside diet and daily habits, certain precautions for cancer deserve special attention, as they address some of the most well established risk factors:

  • Avoid tobacco in every form: Whether smoked or chewed, tobacco use significantly increases the risk of several cancers including oral and pancreatic cancer from chewing tobacco, and lung, bladder, cervical, and kidney cancer from smoking.
  • Limit alcohol consumption: Regular alcohol intake is linked to cancers of the mouth and throat, oesophagus, colon and rectum, liver, and breast. Reducing consumption or avoiding it altogether lowers this risk.
  • Protect your skin from sun exposure: There’s no such thing as a safe tan. Unprotected exposure to UV rays increases the risk of skin cancer. Wear long sleeves, a wide brimmed hat, and sunscreen when out in the sun for extended periods.
  • Practice safe habits around infections: Certain infections, such as HPV and Hepatitis B, are linked to specific cancers. Vaccination and safe practices can reduce this risk considerably.
  • Go for periodic health check ups: Don’t let your health take a backseat. Routine screenings, such as mammograms, Pap smears, colonoscopies, and skin checks, allow for early detection, when treatment is most effective. For women specifically concerned about breast health, our breast cancer hospital in Mumbai offers dedicated screening and diagnostic services. If you have a family history of cancer, speak to your doctor about a personalised screening schedule. 

Conclusion

Cancer prevention isn’t about perfection — it’s about consistency. Small, everyday choices around what you eat, how active you stay, and the habits you avoid can add up to a meaningfully lower risk over time. Pair these lifestyle changes with regular health screenings for the best possible protection, since early detection remains one of the most powerful tools in cancer care.

If you have concerns about your personal risk factors or family history, don’t wait to seek guidance. The specialists at our best oncology hospital in Mumbai are available to help you understand your risk and plan the right screening schedule for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cancer be prevented completely? 

No, cancer cannot be prevented completely, since some risk factors such as genetics and random cellular changes are beyond anyone’s control. However, a large share of cancer risk is tied to lifestyle factors, so adopting healthy habits can significantly lower your chances of developing the disease.

What is the best way to prevent cancer? 

There’s no single “best” way, effective cancer prevention combines several habits: eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol, protecting your skin from excess sun exposure, and going for regular health check ups for early detection.

What foods help prevent cancer? 

Foods rich in antioxidants and fibre are particularly beneficial, including cruciferous vegetables, berries, leafy greens, tomatoes, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and fatty fish. Turmeric, garlic, and green tea are also commonly included in a cancer conscious diet.

How can cancer be prevented naturally at home? 

Simple, sustainable habits go a long way such as cooking with fresh, whole ingredients, reducing processed and sugary foods, staying hydrated, exercising daily, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep are all effective natural ways to lower cancer risk at home.

What are the main precautions for cancer prevention? 

Key precautions include avoiding tobacco in any form, limiting alcohol consumption, protecting your skin from prolonged sun exposure, staying up to date with recommended vaccinations, and getting periodic cancer screenings, especially if you have a family history. 

Does diet really play a role in cancer prevention? 

Yes. A diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, and low in processed foods, red meat, and added sugar is strongly associated with a lower risk of several cancers. Diet alone won’t guarantee prevention, but it is one of the most controllable and impactful factors. 

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