News and Updates
News and Updates
NEWS AND UPDATES
Stay updated with the latest healthcare news
From eye exams to blood tests and surgery: how doctors use light to diagnose disease
The "flashlight" your GP uses to view the inside of your eye (known as an ophthalmoscope) is a great example. This allows doctors to detect abnormal blood flow in the eye, deformations of the cornea (the outermost clear layer of the eye), or swollen optical discs (a round section at the back of the eye where the nerve link to the brain begins). Swollen discs are a sign of elevated pressure inside your head (or in the worst case, a brain tumour) that could be causing your headaches.
Teleflex beats quarterly profit estimates on robust medical devices demand
Robust demand for non-urgent procedures, especially among older adults, have kept investor expectations heightened around the performance of medical device makers over the past year.
Dialysis firm DaVita misses third-quarter profit estimates on higher costs
The company said the increase in patient care costs during the quarter was due to higher compensation, health benefit expense, and other direct operating expenses associated with its dialysis centers.
Waters Corp raises annual profit forecast on higher demand for lab equipment
The lab equipment and software maker expects its 2024 adjusted profit to be between $11.67 and $11.87 per share, compared with its prior forecast of $11.55 to $11.65 per share. Analysts were expecting $11.60, according to LSEG data.
Manipal Group's diagnostic arm acquires Mumbai-based iGenetic
With this acquisition, Manipal HealthMap is set to strengthen its presence in key markets, including Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Karnataka, while expanding its pan-India reach. The acquisition will also complement Manipal HealthMap’s existing portfolio, particularly in specialized testing areas such as oncology, infections, fertility, and more.
Baxter restarts IV solutions manufacturing line at hurricane-hit facility
The North Cove facility was temporarily closed last month due to flooding caused by Hurricane Helene. The plant makes 60% of the United States' supply of IV fluids and peritoneal dialysis (PD) solutions, according to the American Hospital Association.
China unveils first diagnosis guidelines to battle escalating obesity crisis
The guidelines, made public on Oct 17, come as China experiences an upward morbidity trend of its overweight and obese population. The rate of overweight or obese people could reach 65.3% by 2030, the NHC said.
GE HealthCare beats Q3 profit estimates on U.S. demand for medical devices
The company also raised the lower end of its annual adjusted profit forecast to $4.25 per share from $4.20 previously, keeping the upper end at $4.35.
‘RT-PCR labs can be adapted for future disease diagnosis’
Dr Selvavinayagam was speaking at a national conclave on ‘Vector-Borne Diseases,' organized by Madurai AIIMS and the Academy of Clinical Microbiologists (ACM). He noted that Tamil Nadu's Covid-19 response led to the development of extensive infrastructure, with RT-PCR labs capable of conducting 30-40 lakh tests a day.
Medical implant maker Exactech files for bankruptcy after recall litigation
Exactech, which is owned by private equity firm TPG, entered bankruptcy with $352 million in debt and a sale agreement that would turn over the company's assets to its lenders. The sale agreement is subject to higher offers, and it is supported by 95% of the company's lenders, according to court filings.
HaystackAnalytics expands infexn Test for infectious diseases
By analyzing respiratory samples such as VTM and BAL, the expanded infexn - NGS test offers clinicians a more streamlined approach to diagnosing infections, enabling them to screen for major RNA viruses, bacterial and fungal pathogens, and AMR in a single test.
Stryker raises annual profit forecast on robust demand for medical, surgical devices
The company now expects annual adjusted profit to range between $12.00 and $12.10 per share, compared to the previous forecast of $11.90 to $12.10 per share. Analysts' average estimate for 2024 is pegged at $12.01, according to data compiled by LSEG.
City Imaging & Clinical Labs to expand its services across North India
The company plans to grow its network, offering world-class laboratory services to hospitals with 50 or more beds. The goal is to extend its footprint across North India over the next five years, supported by cutting-edge technology, a dedicated corporate quality assurance (CQA) team, highly experienced pathologists, and an advanced laboratory information management system (LIMS).
PM Modi inaugurates medical devices plant in Vapi
Meril has bolstered India's global footprint and it is actively reducing India's dependence on foreign imports and supporting the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, said the release.
Spotting Mpox: A Guide to Symptoms and Knowing When to Seek Testing
The high cost of vaccines and limited availability in countries like DR Congo highlights the need for international collaboration in resource allocation. Advancing scientific research, improving diagnostic tools, and strengthening surveillance methods will be vital in combating future outbreaks.
Swiss hearing aid maker Sonova resumes supplying Costco, source says
The product to be sold at Costco, a prescription hearing aid by the name of Sennheiser Sonite R which was specifically designed for the retailer, will initially be available in 107 locations in the United States, with a gradual expansion expected in the future, the source said.
Understanding KaryoSeq sequencing and its benefits
KaryoSeq integrates the power of NGS with traditional karyotyping methods to offer a high-resolution view of the entire genome. The process involves sequencing the DNA to detect even the smallest chromosomal changes, including microdeletions, microduplications, and other complex rearrangements.
NCIL developing indigenous dialysis machine in collaboration with NIT Silchar
The AI-enabled smart haemodialysis machine is aimed to make renal care more accessible and affordable which may bring down the cost by nearly 75 per cent to around Rs 2 lakh, the official claimed.
Agilus Diagnostics launches Pharmacogenomics testing service
As the genetic underpinnings of psychiatric disorders and treatment responses are being explored, pharmacogenomics stands at the forefront of a new era in psychiatry. The approach holds the promise of not only better patient outcomes but also a more nuanced and individualised understanding of mental health. With its ability to guide medication selection and dosing, pharmacogenomics is paving the way for a future in which psychiatric care is more effective, efficient, and personalised than ever before.
Philips cuts sales outlook as China demand wanes
Philips, which sells products ranging from toothbrushes to medical imaging systems, said comparable sales in the third quarter were flat at 4.4 billion euros ($4.75 billion), missing the 2.1% growth analysts on average had predicted.
Suraksha Diagnostic gets Sebi's go ahead to float IPO
Explaining the reason for going public, the company, in its draft papers, stated that the listing is aimed at achieving the benefit of listing equity shares on the stock exchanges and carrying out OFS for the selling shareholders.
Nurturing a Global Vision: India's Medical Device Industry as a Manufacturing Hub
A significant driver of India's rise as a global medical device manufacturing hub is the involvement of large Indian manufacturing companies in the medical material business. Traditionally focused on sectors like automotive, aerospace, and electronics, large Indian manufacturing companies are now leveraging their extensive experience, resources, and technological prowess to diversify into the medical materials sector.
A Pathologist’s Dilemma :The Heart’s Hidden Chamber
Beyond the valves and vessels lies a mystery —the heart that heals is also the heart that feels, A silent force connecting us all.
Import of refurbished, pre-owned medical devices, major setback for India’s MedTech sector: Industry leaders
Industry leaders stressed that this memorandum significantly undermines the domestic MedTech sector, which has experienced remarkable growth and investment in recent years under the 'Make in India' initiative. Moreover, there are serious concerns about safety outcomes and the quality of patient care, as refurbished devices may not adhere to the stringent safety protocols required for new devices. This could potentially compromise patient well-being and diminish healthcare delivery.
ADHD prescribing has changed over the years - a new guide aims to bring doctors up to speed
To address these concerns and improve consistency in ADHD diagnosis and prescribing, the Australasian ADHD Professionals Association has released a new prescribing guide. This will help the health-care workforce to consistently get the right treatment to the right people, with the right mix of medical and non-medical supports.
NovoCure’s wearable device receives FDA approval for metastatic cancer treatment
The device, which disrupts cancer cell growth with electric fields, has shown improved survival rates in clinical trials with fewer side effects than traditional treatments.
Study finds how new imaging method accurately detects kidney cancer
The findings, published in The Lancet Oncology, might significantly minimize the number of unnecessary procedures and ensure that patients receive the proper treatment at the right time, thereby altering how doctors diagnose and treat the disease in the future.
Baxter expects to restart IV fluids line at hurricane-hit plant within next week
Baxter also said the U.S. Food and Drug Administration had authorized temporary imports from the company's two other manufacturing facilities, in Thailand and Singapore, as it works to bring the North Carolina plant back online.
Redcliffe Labs expands footprint in South India with acquisition of Celara Diagnostics
This integration will enable Redcliffe Labs to offer a broader range of diagnostic services, including high-end radiology and super-specialised pathology, with enhanced turnaround times and an improved customer experience throughout Karnataka.
ResMed beats quarterly profit estimates on strong demand for its sleep apnea devices
ResMed makes continuous and bilateral positive airway pressure machines for non-invasive treatment of sleep apnea - a condition in which the airway gets blocked multiple times while sleeping.
Agilus Diagnostics appoints Anil Kapoor as brand ambassador
Kapoor, a legendary actor renowned for his timeless appeal, fitness, and enduring presence in the film industry, perfectly embodies the values that Agilus stands —integrity, trust, and excellence. His persona aligns seamlessly with the company's mission of promoting a healthier India through advanced diagnostic services, making him the perfect choice to represent the brand as it deepens its connection with customers across the nation.
Edwards forecast fourth-quarter sales below expectations on soft demand for heart devices
Investor expectations for medical device makers have risen in recent quarters as demand for surgical procedures, especially among older adults, remains high.
Krsnaa Diagnostics, Medikabazaar, United Imaging collaborate to establish 30+ imaging centres across tier II-III cities in India
This partnership intends to bring together the best of technology and healthcare expertise to significantly enhance patient care and accessibility. Aiming to bridge the gap in diagnostics in small towns and semi-urban areas, the collaboration will provide increased focus on advanced radiology imaging solutions by reaching the communities most in need, thus enhancing overall patient care to the masses.
Pharma bodies flag risks of refurbished medical gear imports
Lobby groups have asked the health minister JP Nadda to intervene and recall the policy that allows unregulated influx of second-hand medical equipment such as CT scanners, MRI machines, and surgical robots into the country.
Dr Lal PathLabs sets sights on big buys to expand in south
If the asset is of a strategic fit, it could look at a deal size of Rs 3,000 crore-Rs 4,000 crore, said a senior company official. "We have around Rs 1,000 crore (net) cash, we can leverage our balance sheet, we can use our equity, size will not hold us," said Ved Prakash Goel, group CFO, in an interview to ET. "There are people who are there in the market, the (valuation) expectation is high," Goel said.
Dozee unveils Shravan, AI-powered remote parent monitoring service
The service provides AI-based monitoring of vital signs such as heart rate, respiration rate, non-contact blood pressure and sleep patterns without the need for wearables, ensuring elderly parents experience minimal disruption. Immediate notifications are sent to both NRIs and healthcare providers in India in case of deviations from health parameters, enabling timely interventions.
Krsnaa Diagnostics acquires strategic stake in Apulki Healthcare
With this acquisition, Krsnaa aims to provide a comprehensive suite of integrated diagnostic services to cancer and cardiac patients under one roof, the company said in a statement.
Imaginarium paves the path for India’s first hand transplant recovery with 3D Printing solution
Anamta Ahmad, the youngest person in the world to undergo a shoulder-level limb transplant, faced a daunting recovery journey as she got electrocuted by 11000-volt electric wires. The complex nature of the surgery and extended recovery period required a specialised approach to ensure proper healing and minimised discomfort. Imaginarium's custom 3D printed orthotic device, tailored to Anamta's needs, has been crucial in overcoming these challenges.
Metropolis Healthcare launches ‘Healthy Heart Meter’ campaign in honour of World Heart Day
The initiative aims to encourage preventive care and raise awareness about heart health. The campaign features a simple 10-question survey to help individuals assess their risk factors based on lifestyle choices, medical history, and basic health indicators. Based on their responses, participants are identified as—low, medium, or high risk as per the heart meter. Those identified as medium risk will be recommended to take a non-fasting lipid profile test, while those at high risk will be suggested to take the comprehensive ‘Truhealth Heart Meter Pack’ which includes various diagnostic tests to assess heart health, with the option of an ECG.
Medical gear maker Getinge misses forecast for Q3 core profit
Getinge's earnings before interest, tax and amortisation (EBITA), adjusted for items affecting comparability, fell 17% from a year earlier to 903 million Swedish crowns ($85.8 million). That missed analysts' expectations of 1.03 billion crowns, a company-provided consensus showed.
NEWS AND UPDATES
Stay updated with the latest healthcare news
From eye exams to blood tests and surgery: how doctors use light to diagnose disease
The "flashlight" your GP uses to view the inside of your eye (known as an ophthalmoscope) is a great example. This allows doctors to detect abnormal blood flow in the eye, deformations of the cornea (the outermost clear layer of the eye), or swollen optical discs (a round section at the back of the eye where the nerve link to the brain begins). Swollen discs are a sign of elevated pressure inside your head (or in the worst case, a brain tumour) that could be causing your headaches.
Teleflex beats quarterly profit estimates on robust medical devices demand
Robust demand for non-urgent procedures, especially among older adults, have kept investor expectations heightened around the performance of medical device makers over the past year.
Dialysis firm DaVita misses third-quarter profit estimates on higher costs
The company said the increase in patient care costs during the quarter was due to higher compensation, health benefit expense, and other direct operating expenses associated with its dialysis centers.
Waters Corp raises annual profit forecast on higher demand for lab equipment
The lab equipment and software maker expects its 2024 adjusted profit to be between $11.67 and $11.87 per share, compared with its prior forecast of $11.55 to $11.65 per share. Analysts were expecting $11.60, according to LSEG data.
Manipal Group's diagnostic arm acquires Mumbai-based iGenetic
With this acquisition, Manipal HealthMap is set to strengthen its presence in key markets, including Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Karnataka, while expanding its pan-India reach. The acquisition will also complement Manipal HealthMap’s existing portfolio, particularly in specialized testing areas such as oncology, infections, fertility, and more.
Baxter restarts IV solutions manufacturing line at hurricane-hit facility
The North Cove facility was temporarily closed last month due to flooding caused by Hurricane Helene. The plant makes 60% of the United States' supply of IV fluids and peritoneal dialysis (PD) solutions, according to the American Hospital Association.
China unveils first diagnosis guidelines to battle escalating obesity crisis
The guidelines, made public on Oct 17, come as China experiences an upward morbidity trend of its overweight and obese population. The rate of overweight or obese people could reach 65.3% by 2030, the NHC said.
GE HealthCare beats Q3 profit estimates on U.S. demand for medical devices
The company also raised the lower end of its annual adjusted profit forecast to $4.25 per share from $4.20 previously, keeping the upper end at $4.35.
‘RT-PCR labs can be adapted for future disease diagnosis’
Dr Selvavinayagam was speaking at a national conclave on ‘Vector-Borne Diseases,' organized by Madurai AIIMS and the Academy of Clinical Microbiologists (ACM). He noted that Tamil Nadu's Covid-19 response led to the development of extensive infrastructure, with RT-PCR labs capable of conducting 30-40 lakh tests a day.
Medical implant maker Exactech files for bankruptcy after recall litigation
Exactech, which is owned by private equity firm TPG, entered bankruptcy with $352 million in debt and a sale agreement that would turn over the company's assets to its lenders. The sale agreement is subject to higher offers, and it is supported by 95% of the company's lenders, according to court filings.
HaystackAnalytics expands infexn Test for infectious diseases
By analyzing respiratory samples such as VTM and BAL, the expanded infexn - NGS test offers clinicians a more streamlined approach to diagnosing infections, enabling them to screen for major RNA viruses, bacterial and fungal pathogens, and AMR in a single test.
Stryker raises annual profit forecast on robust demand for medical, surgical devices
The company now expects annual adjusted profit to range between $12.00 and $12.10 per share, compared to the previous forecast of $11.90 to $12.10 per share. Analysts' average estimate for 2024 is pegged at $12.01, according to data compiled by LSEG.
City Imaging & Clinical Labs to expand its services across North India
The company plans to grow its network, offering world-class laboratory services to hospitals with 50 or more beds. The goal is to extend its footprint across North India over the next five years, supported by cutting-edge technology, a dedicated corporate quality assurance (CQA) team, highly experienced pathologists, and an advanced laboratory information management system (LIMS).
PM Modi inaugurates medical devices plant in Vapi
Meril has bolstered India's global footprint and it is actively reducing India's dependence on foreign imports and supporting the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, said the release.
Spotting Mpox: A Guide to Symptoms and Knowing When to Seek Testing
The high cost of vaccines and limited availability in countries like DR Congo highlights the need for international collaboration in resource allocation. Advancing scientific research, improving diagnostic tools, and strengthening surveillance methods will be vital in combating future outbreaks.
Swiss hearing aid maker Sonova resumes supplying Costco, source says
The product to be sold at Costco, a prescription hearing aid by the name of Sennheiser Sonite R which was specifically designed for the retailer, will initially be available in 107 locations in the United States, with a gradual expansion expected in the future, the source said.
Understanding KaryoSeq sequencing and its benefits
KaryoSeq integrates the power of NGS with traditional karyotyping methods to offer a high-resolution view of the entire genome. The process involves sequencing the DNA to detect even the smallest chromosomal changes, including microdeletions, microduplications, and other complex rearrangements.
NCIL developing indigenous dialysis machine in collaboration with NIT Silchar
The AI-enabled smart haemodialysis machine is aimed to make renal care more accessible and affordable which may bring down the cost by nearly 75 per cent to around Rs 2 lakh, the official claimed.
Agilus Diagnostics launches Pharmacogenomics testing service
As the genetic underpinnings of psychiatric disorders and treatment responses are being explored, pharmacogenomics stands at the forefront of a new era in psychiatry. The approach holds the promise of not only better patient outcomes but also a more nuanced and individualised understanding of mental health. With its ability to guide medication selection and dosing, pharmacogenomics is paving the way for a future in which psychiatric care is more effective, efficient, and personalised than ever before.
Philips cuts sales outlook as China demand wanes
Philips, which sells products ranging from toothbrushes to medical imaging systems, said comparable sales in the third quarter were flat at 4.4 billion euros ($4.75 billion), missing the 2.1% growth analysts on average had predicted.
Suraksha Diagnostic gets Sebi's go ahead to float IPO
Explaining the reason for going public, the company, in its draft papers, stated that the listing is aimed at achieving the benefit of listing equity shares on the stock exchanges and carrying out OFS for the selling shareholders.
Nurturing a Global Vision: India's Medical Device Industry as a Manufacturing Hub
A significant driver of India's rise as a global medical device manufacturing hub is the involvement of large Indian manufacturing companies in the medical material business. Traditionally focused on sectors like automotive, aerospace, and electronics, large Indian manufacturing companies are now leveraging their extensive experience, resources, and technological prowess to diversify into the medical materials sector.
A Pathologist’s Dilemma :The Heart’s Hidden Chamber
Beyond the valves and vessels lies a mystery —the heart that heals is also the heart that feels, A silent force connecting us all.
Import of refurbished, pre-owned medical devices, major setback for India’s MedTech sector: Industry leaders
Industry leaders stressed that this memorandum significantly undermines the domestic MedTech sector, which has experienced remarkable growth and investment in recent years under the 'Make in India' initiative. Moreover, there are serious concerns about safety outcomes and the quality of patient care, as refurbished devices may not adhere to the stringent safety protocols required for new devices. This could potentially compromise patient well-being and diminish healthcare delivery.
ADHD prescribing has changed over the years - a new guide aims to bring doctors up to speed
To address these concerns and improve consistency in ADHD diagnosis and prescribing, the Australasian ADHD Professionals Association has released a new prescribing guide. This will help the health-care workforce to consistently get the right treatment to the right people, with the right mix of medical and non-medical supports.
NovoCure’s wearable device receives FDA approval for metastatic cancer treatment
The device, which disrupts cancer cell growth with electric fields, has shown improved survival rates in clinical trials with fewer side effects than traditional treatments.
Study finds how new imaging method accurately detects kidney cancer
The findings, published in The Lancet Oncology, might significantly minimize the number of unnecessary procedures and ensure that patients receive the proper treatment at the right time, thereby altering how doctors diagnose and treat the disease in the future.
Baxter expects to restart IV fluids line at hurricane-hit plant within next week
Baxter also said the U.S. Food and Drug Administration had authorized temporary imports from the company's two other manufacturing facilities, in Thailand and Singapore, as it works to bring the North Carolina plant back online.
Redcliffe Labs expands footprint in South India with acquisition of Celara Diagnostics
This integration will enable Redcliffe Labs to offer a broader range of diagnostic services, including high-end radiology and super-specialised pathology, with enhanced turnaround times and an improved customer experience throughout Karnataka.
ResMed beats quarterly profit estimates on strong demand for its sleep apnea devices
ResMed makes continuous and bilateral positive airway pressure machines for non-invasive treatment of sleep apnea - a condition in which the airway gets blocked multiple times while sleeping.
Agilus Diagnostics appoints Anil Kapoor as brand ambassador
Kapoor, a legendary actor renowned for his timeless appeal, fitness, and enduring presence in the film industry, perfectly embodies the values that Agilus stands —integrity, trust, and excellence. His persona aligns seamlessly with the company's mission of promoting a healthier India through advanced diagnostic services, making him the perfect choice to represent the brand as it deepens its connection with customers across the nation.
Edwards forecast fourth-quarter sales below expectations on soft demand for heart devices
Investor expectations for medical device makers have risen in recent quarters as demand for surgical procedures, especially among older adults, remains high.
Krsnaa Diagnostics, Medikabazaar, United Imaging collaborate to establish 30+ imaging centres across tier II-III cities in India
This partnership intends to bring together the best of technology and healthcare expertise to significantly enhance patient care and accessibility. Aiming to bridge the gap in diagnostics in small towns and semi-urban areas, the collaboration will provide increased focus on advanced radiology imaging solutions by reaching the communities most in need, thus enhancing overall patient care to the masses.
Pharma bodies flag risks of refurbished medical gear imports
Lobby groups have asked the health minister JP Nadda to intervene and recall the policy that allows unregulated influx of second-hand medical equipment such as CT scanners, MRI machines, and surgical robots into the country.
Dr Lal PathLabs sets sights on big buys to expand in south
If the asset is of a strategic fit, it could look at a deal size of Rs 3,000 crore-Rs 4,000 crore, said a senior company official. "We have around Rs 1,000 crore (net) cash, we can leverage our balance sheet, we can use our equity, size will not hold us," said Ved Prakash Goel, group CFO, in an interview to ET. "There are people who are there in the market, the (valuation) expectation is high," Goel said.
Dozee unveils Shravan, AI-powered remote parent monitoring service
The service provides AI-based monitoring of vital signs such as heart rate, respiration rate, non-contact blood pressure and sleep patterns without the need for wearables, ensuring elderly parents experience minimal disruption. Immediate notifications are sent to both NRIs and healthcare providers in India in case of deviations from health parameters, enabling timely interventions.
Krsnaa Diagnostics acquires strategic stake in Apulki Healthcare
With this acquisition, Krsnaa aims to provide a comprehensive suite of integrated diagnostic services to cancer and cardiac patients under one roof, the company said in a statement.
Imaginarium paves the path for India’s first hand transplant recovery with 3D Printing solution
Anamta Ahmad, the youngest person in the world to undergo a shoulder-level limb transplant, faced a daunting recovery journey as she got electrocuted by 11000-volt electric wires. The complex nature of the surgery and extended recovery period required a specialised approach to ensure proper healing and minimised discomfort. Imaginarium's custom 3D printed orthotic device, tailored to Anamta's needs, has been crucial in overcoming these challenges.
Metropolis Healthcare launches ‘Healthy Heart Meter’ campaign in honour of World Heart Day
The initiative aims to encourage preventive care and raise awareness about heart health. The campaign features a simple 10-question survey to help individuals assess their risk factors based on lifestyle choices, medical history, and basic health indicators. Based on their responses, participants are identified as—low, medium, or high risk as per the heart meter. Those identified as medium risk will be recommended to take a non-fasting lipid profile test, while those at high risk will be suggested to take the comprehensive ‘Truhealth Heart Meter Pack’ which includes various diagnostic tests to assess heart health, with the option of an ECG.
Medical gear maker Getinge misses forecast for Q3 core profit
Getinge's earnings before interest, tax and amortisation (EBITA), adjusted for items affecting comparability, fell 17% from a year earlier to 903 million Swedish crowns ($85.8 million). That missed analysts' expectations of 1.03 billion crowns, a company-provided consensus showed.