ICMR’s Innovations in Public Health
New Handheld X-ray for Tuberculosis
Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), announced a groundbreaking development in tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis. A new handheld X-ray device, developed in collaboration with IIT Kanpur, promises to enhance TB screening by being more affordable than imported versions. This innovation aims to bring TB screening closer to patients’ homes, especially benefiting vulnerable populations.
Advancements in Mpox Testing
Dr. Bahl also highlighted the development of three testing kits for Mpox, with three companies now manufacturing these kits. This marks a significant step in improving Mpox diagnosis and management.
Efforts Against Sickle Cell Disease
India is tackling sickle cell disease, affecting over a million people. The country has developed 18 low-cost tests for detecting the disease, reducing the cost from 400 rupees to just 30 rupees per test. This is part of the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aiming to eliminate the disease by 2047.
Progress in Dengue Vaccine Development
Dr. Bahl shared updates on the dengue vaccine, which is currently in phase three clinical trials. If the results show safety and efficacy, India could soon have its own dengue vaccine, potentially saving many lives.
Doubts Revealed
ICMR -: ICMR stands for Indian Council of Medical Research. It is a government body in India that conducts and supports medical research to improve public health.
Dr. Rajiv Bahl -: Dr. Rajiv Bahl is a scientist associated with ICMR. He works on developing new medical technologies and solutions to improve health care in India.
Handheld X-ray -: A handheld X-ray is a small, portable device that can take X-ray images. It is used to check for diseases like TB (tuberculosis) in a quick and easy way.
TB -: TB stands for tuberculosis, which is a serious infectious disease that mainly affects the lungs. It is important to detect it early to treat it effectively.
IIT Kanpur -: IIT Kanpur is one of the top engineering institutes in India. It collaborates with other organizations to develop new technologies, like the handheld X-ray.
Mpox -: Mpox is a disease caused by a virus, similar to smallpox. Testing kits help in detecting the disease early to prevent its spread.
Sickle cell disease -: Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder that affects the shape of red blood cells. It can cause pain and other health problems, and early testing helps in managing it better.
Dengue vaccine -: A dengue vaccine is a medicine that helps protect people from dengue fever, a disease spread by mosquitoes. It is in the final testing phase to ensure it is safe and effective.
Phase three trials -: Phase three trials are the last stage of testing a new vaccine or medicine. It involves giving the vaccine to many people to check its safety and effectiveness before approval.