- As the diabetes capital of the world, combined with high tobacco consumption, India faces an alarming rate of vascular diseases leading to severe complications such as limb amputations and loss of life
- Vascular surgery–a lesser-known specialty–treats arterial and venous blockages or dilations, such as gangrene, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), varicose veins and clots
- As part of its awareness endeavour, IndoVasc Hospital offers discounts to patients till August 10
NE HEALTH BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, AUGUST 6
A day ahead of National Vascular Day which falls on August 6, focussing on achieving the goal of an ‘amputation free world,’ by educating people about the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to prevent vascular diseases was organised by IndoVasc Hosptal here on Monday.
Emphasising the dangers of vascular diseases and importance of leading a healthy life, Dr Srujal Shah, an eminent Endovascular Surgeon, said, “Today, we celebrate National Vascular Day, an initiative underlining the significance of vascular health in India’s healthcare. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about vascular diseases and the importance of prevention and early intervention. As the diabetes capital of the world, combined with high tobacco consumption, India faces an alarming rate of vascular diseases leading to severe complications such as limb amputations and loss of life.”
In India, every three minutes, a leg is amputated, leading to an astonishing 600 limbs lost daily and over 2,00,000 annually. This crisis is not just a statistic, it affects individuals and places a tremendous financial and emotional burden on families. The key to combating this is raising awareness about vascular health and is the crucial role of vascular surgeons.
In Gujarat, we have only 20 vascular surgeons out of which 9 are in Ahmedabad: Dr Srujal Shah
Answering a query on the shortage of vascular surgeons in the country, Dr Srujal Shah, said, “With only 550 vascular surgeons serving India’s 1.41 billion population, there is an urgent need for more medical professionals. In Gujarat, we have only 20 vascular surgeons out of which 9 are in Ahmedabad. This shortage often leads to delayed or inadequate care for patients, increasing the risk of complications and mortality.”
“Hence, we urge medical aspirants to consider specializing in vascular surgery. Also, we train them befitting the need of vascular surgeons in India. Your role is crucial in our mission to reduce amputations and save lives. Encouraged by our initiatives, so far five youngsters have opted vascular surgery,” added Dr Srujal Shah.
“Since August 6, 1994, National Vascular Day has been observed. This disease affects the blood vessels, causing blockages that may require surgical intervention. This event aims to raise awareness about it. To prevent the disease, it is important to practice yoga, avoid smoking, and control diabetes. These steps will be the greatest achievement of National Vascular Day. We will also adopt AI and robotic surgery in our treatment for vascular diseases,” said Dr Riashabh Gadhavi.
Vascular surgery–a lesser-known specialty–treats arterial and venous blockages or dilations, such as gangrene, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), varicose veins and clots.
Vascular surgeons employ various modalities, including the following:
Medications: To manage and prevent vascular conditions.
Endovascular Interventions: Utilizing balloons and stents to treat blockages.
Open and Hybrid Vascular Surgeries: Combining traditional and minimally invasive techniques.
If you or a loved one suffers from gangrene, foot ulcers, DVT, varicose veins, diabetic ulcers, swollen legs, or aneurysms, it is crucial to seek the expertise of a vascular surgeon.
“Quit Tobacco – Choose Life & Make India Amputation Free”
As part of its awareness endeavour, IndoVasc Hospital offers discounts to patients till August 10.
