Surat: As part of its ongoing health awareness initiative, the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) organized a special seminar titled "Healthy Joints, Healthy Brain: Prevention and Intervention" on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at Samruddhi Bhavan, Nanpura. The event aimed to dispel myths surrounding brain strokes and joint replacement surgeries while promoting timely medical intervention and preventive care.
Addressing the audience, vascular intervention specialist Dr. Jenny Gandhi (MD, FRCR, FVIIR, FNVIR) elaborated on the role of neurology in reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with brain strokes. As per agency report, she highlighted that it is a common misconception that stroke patients remain bedridden for life or have significantly reduced life expectancy. With timely and appropriate medical treatment, stroke survivors can lead normal lives.
She explained that paralysis often results from brain hemorrhage or blockage in brain arteries. Individuals over the age of 50 should undergo health checkups every six months and manage risk factors such as diabetes and high blood pressure. She also advised that symptoms like sudden blindness, slurred speech, or limb weakness should be treated as medical emergencies.
Orthopedic consultant and joint replacement surgeon Dr. Manu Sharma discussed the importance of prevention in arthritis and the role of joint replacement. He noted that partial joint replacements generally last 10 to 15 years, while full replacements can function effectively for 20 to 25 years. Dr. Sharma also addressed common fears, clarifying that patients are not confined to bed after joint surgery. He cautioned against robotic joint surgery due to higher chances of complications and extended recovery times, citing examples of countries like Australia where such procedures have been discontinued. He emphasized that a successful surgery depends on proper implantation, a well-equipped hospital, and an experienced surgeon.
Chamber President Nikhil Madrasi opened the seminar with a welcome address, outlining SGCCI's commitment to public health and social initiatives. Dr. Rajan Desai, co-chairman of the public health committee, presented the program’s framework and introduced the guest speakers.
The session was moderated by Mahesh Pamnani, Chairman of the SGCCI Education and Skill Development Centre. The seminar concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where experts provided insightful responses to audience queries, marking a successful end to the awareness event.
