AstraZeneca Pharma India launches Centre of Excellence for severe asthma in Mumbai

The inauguration commenced by traditional lighting of lamp by – Chief Guest -B K Yoginiben, Executive Director of Bramha Kumaris Hospital and Guest of Honour- Dr. Mangesh Tiwaskar and Dr J M Phadtare.

Asthma, a global concern affects over 339 million people annually, with more than 15 million cases in India alone. Tropical cities like Mumbai, characterized by high humidity levels, frequently trigger asthma attacks in patients.

"This state-of-the-art centre will serve as exemplar hub for treatment and management of severe asthma patients, playing a crucial role in guiding and supporting evolving severe asthma centers. The centre will advocate a systematic and guidelines-based approach to identify and treat severe asthma patients," the release stated.

To ensure seamless collaboration with the healthcare ecosystem, AstraZeneca is in discussion with potential local partners to aid establishment of these centres. 

Equipped with innovative technologies for asthma management, including biologics checklists and data-driven treatment approaches, the newly inaugurated CoE Mumbai is expected to screen approximately 7,500+ patients within the first 12 months. This initiative's sustainability will be ensured through collaborations, ongoing research, and knowledge-sharing with local healthcare professionals.

Dr. Anil Kukreja, Vice President - Medical Affairs & Regulatory, AstraZeneca India, said, "Today marks a significant milestone in our commitment to advancing respiratory care. The inauguration of the 'Centre of Excellence' at Bramha Kumaris Hospital, Mumbai, underscores AstraZeneca's dedication to transforming the landscape of severe asthma diagnosis and treatment. This state-of-the-art hub, guided by a systematic and guidelines-based approach, not only serves as a beacon for severe asthma management but also exemplifies our unwavering focus on eliminating preventable severe asthma attacks and hospitalisations. Through collaborative efforts with local partners, ongoing research, and knowledge-sharing, we aim to improve the lives of severe asthma patients. Our journey continues as we strive to redefine the future of respiratory health."

Dr (Prof.) Agam Vora Chest Physician Director Brahma Kumaris Global Hospital & Research Centre Andheri said, “Asthma can kill, but look at the paradox. It can be completely controlled. Bramha Kumaris Global Hospital is ready to help all asthmatics live meaningful and disease-free lives. We recently inaugurated precision clinic will offer state-of-the-art services. The department has the latest equipment and an experienced team of chest physicians. Be it mild or severe, be it allergic or genetic or environmental, each patient receives tailor-made therapy.”

"The CoE also aims to provide nodal services to multiple peripheral centres by connecting to them virtually, and help doctors there interact with us to offer the best possible treatment," the release added.

The primary objectives of the severe asthma CoEs are to:

1. Enhance Care: These centers will offer cutting-edge diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and access to clinical trials, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.
2. Raising Awareness: Educational programs will be conducted to increase asthma awareness and prevention among the local population.
3. Research: The CoEs will contribute to the advancement of understanding severe asthma through local research initiatives.

Dr. Mangesh Tiwaskar and Dr J M Phadtare, said "As a Senior Pulmonologist, witnessing the inauguration of AstraZeneca's 'Centre of Excellence' for severe asthma at Bramha Kumaris Hospital is a pivotal moment. This state-of-the-art hub, driven by a systematic approach, signifies a significant leap in advancing respiratory care. It not only showcases AstraZeneca's commitment to transforming severe asthma treatment but also underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in redefining the landscape of respiratory health."

B K Yoginiben, Executive Director, Bramha Kumaris Hospital said, "This latest initiative in partnership with AstraZeneca India, reflects our shared commitment to enhancing healthcare outcomes. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration that not only transforms severe asthma treatment but also brings about positive changes in the lives of patients, aligning with our vision for comprehensive and compassionate healthcare."