'Medical Memoir' is a Health & Me series that delves into some of the most intriguing medical histories and unveils how medical innovations have evolved over time. Here, we trace the early stages of all things health, whether a vaccine, a treatment, a pill, or a cure.

Maggie was diagnosed with Leukemia at the age of 2.5-year-old, fighting cancer at a young age, she survived after another two and half years of treatment, but it left her in a very vulnerable state. Her immune system took a big hit, even a common cold could be dangerous for her.

What followed was Maggie’s parents' great efforts to ensure their child gets the best childhood, while making sure she stays safe. But no matter how safe you are or how much you try to keep your loved ones safe, things do not go as planned. Despite their efforts, during a routine visit to her oncologist, Maggie's parents were contacted about a measles case that was known to be in the clinic at the same time Maggie was. Every rash, cold or cough after that seemed like their nightmare come true, however, Maggie was lucky this time because she wasn’t infected.

This is not just a story, but the reality of Dr. Tim Jack, who spoke to the Vaccinate Your Family initiative, urging people not just to vaccinate to take care of their children, but also to ensure the safety of everyone around them. But what significance does this story have for our health? What do we need to be aware of measles?

A household name among diseases, measles, is considered to be one of the world’s most contagious diseases. Causing the deaths of millions, the disease impacts the respiratory tract and then slowly spreads throughout the body. Vaccination was the reason why we were able to control the disease in the 1960s, before which the estimated death each year was said to be 2.6 million death each year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

How Old Is Measles?

Places that had never seen the measles virus before were hit very hard. Outbreaks caused a lot of sickness and death in isolated communities, like the Faroe Islands in 1846, Hawai'i in 1848, Fiji in 1875, and Rotuma in 1911.

Also Read: Is Taking Rest Really That Important for Kids? Experts Explain How Much Sleep Shapes a Child’s Brain

Root Cause Of Epidemics And Mass Death

Before vaccines, measles was always present around the world, causing epidemics. In richer countries, better healthcare and nutrition meant fewer people died from measles by the 20th century. While antibiotics couldn't fight the virus itself, they could help with complications like bacterial pneumonia. Still, common problems like ear infections, croup, diarrhea, and pneumonia led to thousands of hospital stays each year. A more serious complication, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), could cause brain damage, loss of hearing or sight, or even death.

Globally, the death rates remained very high, with about 30 million cases and over 2 million deaths every year.

The First Measles Vaccine

In 1954, a measles outbreak at a boarding school near Boston gave doctors a chance to try and find the measles virus. They took samples from sick students. A doctor named Thomas Peebles successfully grew the virus from a sample taken from an 11-year-old boy named David Edmonston. This success allowed doctors to create the very first vaccine against measles.

John Franklin Enders, who was Peebles's boss and is often called "the father of modern vaccines," developed the measles vaccine from a specific strain of the virus called 'Edmonston-B', named after David. This strain is still used today as the basis for most measles vaccines.

Enders and his team tested the vaccine on small groups of children from 1958 to 1960. After that, they started larger trials with thousands of children in New York City and Nigeria. In 1961, the vaccine was declared 100% effective, and the first measles vaccine was approved for public use in 1963.

Global Vaccination Efforts Begin

Starting in the 1960s, individual countries began large-scale vaccination programs against measles. The first international measles vaccination efforts began in Africa in 1966. The World Health Organization (WHO) worked with governments in over 20 newly independent African countries, along with other organizations, to give vaccinations. Their goal was to control measles and also get rid of smallpox.

Despite challenges, like keeping the heat-sensitive vaccine cold during transport and storage, these campaigns showed that vaccination worked against measles. By May 1967, The Gambia became the first country where the measles virus stopped spreading.

In 1968, Dr. Maurice Hilleman, a key figure in vaccine development, created an improved measles vaccine. He weakened the virus by passing it through chick embryo cells 40 times. This resulted in a vaccine that caused fewer severe side effects. This weaker version, known as the Edmonston-Enders strain, led to some of the strains still used in measles vaccines today.

In 1971, Hilleman combined the recently developed vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella into a single shot called the MMR vaccine. In 2005, the chickenpox (varicella) vaccine was added to create the MMRV vaccine. Standalone measles vaccines are still available in many countries.

Worldwide Vaccination and Challenges

In 1974, measles was one of the first diseases targeted by the WHO when they started a program to expand vaccination efforts globally. Widespread childhood vaccination has dramatically reduced measles cases worldwide. WHO now suggests vaccinating babies at 9 months in areas where measles is common, and at 12–15 months in other areas. A second dose is recommended for all children, which is very important because about 15% of children don't get full protection from just one dose.

Why High Vaccination Rates are Crucial?

Because measles spreads so easily, a very high percentage of people need to be immune (at least 95%) to prevent large outbreaks. If vaccination rates drop too low, outbreaks can happen again when the disease is brought back into a community.

Besides the suffering measles causes, controlling outbreaks is expensive and takes resources away from other healthcare services. Measles deaths still occur in many countries, especially where vaccination programs have gaps. For example, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, 7,800 people died from measles during an outbreak between 2018 and 2020, compared to 2,299 deaths from Ebola in the same period.

Eradication Efforts and Setbacks

The Americas region was declared free of endemic measles in 2016—the first WHO region to achieve this. However, this status was lost two years later due to a measles outbreak. This outbreak started because of a crisis in one country that led to gaps in vaccination and slow response. The virus then spread to neighboring countries, where it was eventually controlled.

To address these issues, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has been training countries on how to quickly respond to prevent measles and rubella from spreading, improving disease tracking, and launching new, high-quality follow-up vaccination campaigns.

Between 2000 and 2023, measles vaccination prevented over 60 million deaths worldwide. However, despite having a safe and affordable vaccine, global measles deaths continued to rise before the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2019, there were over 207,000 measles deaths globally, which was the highest number of reported cases in 23 years.

Is Measles Still A Cause Of Concern?

According to Harvard Health as of July 2025, there have been 1,288 confirmed measles cases across 38 states in the US, primarily among children. This is the highest number of cases since 2000, the year measles was declared eliminated in the country.

This rise in cases is mainly because fewer people are getting vaccinated. Across the country, measles vaccination rates for school kids dropped from 95% in 2019 to 92% in 2023. In some areas where outbreaks are happening, like parts of west Texas, the vaccination rate is as low as 82%. This leaves many people unprotected. A big reason for the current cases is that 96% of recent infections were in people who weren't vaccinated or hadn't completed their shots.

As the history shows, measles outbreaks can be stopped. The MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) is very effective, with two doses providing 97% protection, and it's very safe. Side effects are usually mild, like a sore arm or low fever. The false idea that vaccines cause autism has been proven wrong, but this misinformation has made some people hesitant to get vaccinated.

As a responsible citizen, one must ensure they keep in touch with healthcare professionals and keep the safety of their loved ones as well as everybody else around them.

The American Heart Association (AHA), in its latest update on nutrition guidance, has urged the need to eat a diet rich in vegetables and fruits, while also making a key shift to plant-based protein from meat-based protein earlier to improve heart health.

It has also emphasized the need to reduce the intake of sugar, salt and ultra-processed foods, as well as to switch to low-fat dairy.

The scientific statement, which is issued about every five years, comes amid increasing cases of high blood pressure and obesity in the US, which can potentially lead to poor health outcomes, including deaths from cardiovascular disease and other chronic conditions.

“For healthy eating to be more attainable and sustainable, we recommend people focus on their overall eating pattern rather than specific nutrients or foods. This approach is actionable, something that can be modified as people pass through different life stages, while still adhering to the nine key features,” said Alice H. Lichtenstein, volunteer chair of the scientific statement writing committee and senior scientist.

“The guidance applies to wherever you eat: at home, school, work, restaurants, or in your community. You want to strive for progress rather than perfection. Every time you choose to make a swap for a healthier alternative, you’re making a step toward a healthier life,” added Lichtenstein, who is also senior scientist at the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University in Boston.

The 9 Guidelines for a heart-healthy dietary pattern include:

• Maintaining a healthy body weight by balancing food intake and physical activity
• Eating plenty of vegetables and fruits
• Choose whole grains such as whole‑wheat bread, brown rice, and oatmeal over refined grains such as white bread or white rice
• Shifting from meat to plant-based sources such as legumes, including beans, peas, and lentils, along with nuts and seeds, and fish and seafood. Select low-fat or fat-free dairy products.
• Replace saturated fats with healthy unsaturated fats, including those from nuts, seeds, avocados, and non-tropical plant oils.
• Choose minimally processed foods instead of ultra-processed foods
• Limit beverages and foods with added sugars
• Choose foods low in sodium and prepare foods with minimal or no salt
• Limit intake of alcohol

Also read: AHA’s New Dyslipidemia Guidelines Stress Early Screening, Lifestyle Management

Healthy Eating Patterns From Childhood

The 2026 guidance for children recommends a heart‑healthy dietary pattern starting at 1 year of age. It urges families to play a significant role and become role models.

“Cardiovascular disease begins early in life; even prenatal factors can contribute to increased risk in children as they grow. So, it’s important that healthy eating patterns are adopted in childhood and continue throughout the entire lifespan,” Lichtenstein said.

“The best way to do that is for adults to role model heart-healthy eating patterns inside and outside the home,” she added.

Also read: Cardiovascular Diseases Lead As India’s Top Killer: US Cardiologist Points Out Risk Factors

While the updated guidance is specifically designed to improve cardiovascular health, it may also help improve other conditions like type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, some cancers, and brain health.

Breast cancer treatment has evolved significantly over the past few decades, moving from radical removal approaches to more personalized and tissue-preserving techniques. Today, surgeons no longer view breast conservation surgery (BCS) and mastectomy as competing options, but as equally effective strategies chosen based on individual patient needs.

With the growing availability of reconstructive surgery in Kolkata, patients now also have better cosmetic and psychological outcomes regardless of the surgical path they choose.

Understanding The Two Surgical Options

When faced with a breast cancer diagnosis, understanding the available surgical options is crucial for making an informed decision. Each approach is designed to effectively treat the disease while considering the patient’s long-term health, comfort, and quality of life.

What Is Breast Conservation Surgery (BCS)?

Breast conservation surgery, or lumpectomy or partial mastectomy, is a procedure that involves the removal of the tumor and a small amount of surrounding healthy tissue while preserving most of the breast.

The main objective is to remove cancer without altering the natural shape and appearance of the breast. Radiation therapy is usually administered after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells and minimize the chances of recurrence.

What Is A Mastectomy?

Mastectomy is the removal of the whole breast tissue, and in other cases, the lymph nodes and skin around the breast. It can be done on either breast or both breasts based on the type of cancer and risk factors.

After a mastectomy, patients can choose to have breast reconstruction with the help of modern surgical procedures, such as those provided in reconstructive surgery in Kolkata, which can help to restore the shape and symmetry of the breast.

Major Differences Between BCS And Mastectomy

The basic distinction is the degree of tissue excision. BCS leaves the majority of the breast, but a mastectomy takes away all of it.

Notably, several studies indicate that both methods have equal chances of survival in the long term in early-stage breast cancer.

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Opt For What?

Not every patient is suited for the same surgical approach, as the choice largely depends on individual clinical factors. Tumor size, stage, location, and overall health all play a crucial role in determining eligibility. Understanding who can opt for which procedure helps ensure both effective treatment and optimal long-term outcomes.

Candidates for Breast Conservation Surgery

BCS is usually prescribed to patients with:

• Stage I or II breast cancer
• Tumors smaller than 5 cm
• One tumor in one area
• No radiation therapy contraindications
• Some cases do not have high-risk genetic mutations like BRCA

It might not apply to patients who have more than one tumor in other parts of the breast or those with advanced disease.

Candidates for Mastectomy

Mastectomy may be suggested when:

• The tumor is huge in comparison with the size of the breast
• It has several tumors in various quadrants
• Cancer is metastatic (Stage III or IV)
• The genetic risk of recurrence is high in the patient
• Radiation therapy is not an option or choice

Moreover, other patients might opt to undergo mastectomy to have a sense of security or to alleviate the fear of recurrence.

Advancements In Breast Surgery

The current surgical advances have greatly enhanced the results, particularly in patients who want to preserve their breasts.

Oncoplastic Surgery

Among the most remarkable developments is the oncoplastic breast surgery that involves the use of both cancer resection and plastic surgery. This enables the surgeons to excise bigger tumors without altering the shape and symmetry of the breast.

This has increased the eligibility of BCS so that more women can avoid mastectomy and still have safe control of cancer.

Improved Imaging and Targeting

Modern imaging techniques have assisted surgeons in accurately identifying tumors so that they can be fully removed without damaging normal tissue. This enhances cosmetic outcomes as well as oncological safety.

Advanced Reconstruction Methods

The emergence of reconstructive surgery in Kolkata has given patients who have undergone mastectomy the opportunity to have an immediate or delayed reconstruction with the help of implants or autologous tissue.

Reconstruction has been brought to improve psychological well-being, body image, and quality of life.

Influencing Factors of Surgical Decision-Making

The decision to use BCS or mastectomy is not only a medical choice, but a very personal one, which depends on several factors:

1. Cancer Stage and Tumor Characteristics

The main determinants include tumor size, location, and spread. BCS is more appropriate in early-stage cancers, whereas mastectomy is usually necessary in advanced cases.

2. Survival and Recurrence Outcomes

It has always been demonstrated that the survival rates are the same with BCS (including radiation) and mastectomy in the case of early-stage cancers. Nevertheless, BCS can be slightly more likely to recur locally, which can be treated.

3. Patient Preference

A major role is played by emotional and psychological factors. There are those patients who want to keep their breasts, and others opt to undergo a mastectomy to have peace of mind. Studies show fear of recurrence is a major driver for choosing mastectomy.

4. Access to Radiation Therapy

Since BCS requires post-operative radiation, access to treatment facilities can influence the decision. Patients without easy access may opt for a mastectomy.

5. Cosmetic and Quality-of-Life Concerns

BCS tends to provide superior cosmetic results and satisfaction. Nevertheless, the modern methods of reconstruction have also helped to enhance the results of mastectomy patients considerably.

What Do Surgeons Recommend Today?

Modern breast surgeons support a multidisciplinary patient-centered approach. Instead of prescribing a single solution, they consider:

• Clinical (tumor size, stage, genetics)
• Access to care and patient lifestyle
• Motivational preparedness and individual interests

Surgeons are increasingly preferring breast conservation surgery in most of the early-stage cases because of its good results and quality-of-life advantages. Nevertheless, mastectomy is necessary in more complicated or risky cases.

Conclusion

The debate between breast conservation surgery and mastectomy is no longer about which is superior, but about which is most appropriate for the individual patient. Oncoplastic techniques and reconstructive surgery in Kolkata have advanced, and patients now have a choice of safer, more personalized, and cosmetically satisfying options.

Heart failure has quietly emerged as one of India’s most serious and underestimated health challenges, driven by a rise in hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and delayed diagnosis of heart disease.

Due to a shortage of donor organs and a long waiting period before receiving the right treatment, end-stage heart failure patients in India faced a lot of difficulties a few years ago.

Today, advancements in heart transplant techniques are changing the situation from what was once an untreatable condition to a second chance at life.

Data from the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO) shows a significant year-on-year rise in heart transplants, with 253 transplants done in 2024, showcasing improved organ donation awareness, better coordination between hospitals, and stronger transplant networks.

What was once considered the only option is now emerging as a life-saving solution, offering patients not just a second chance but a return to a more meaningful and active life.

Why Are Heart Transplants Needed?

A heart transplant offers hope and gives a second life to patients whose hearts no longer support the body even after the best available medical aid.

Although it is never performed instantly, it becomes necessary whenever conditions of the heart result in end-stage heart failure, where the pumping function of the heart is compromised.

Also read: Harish Rana’s Family Donated His Heart Valves And Corneas After His Death From Passive Euthanasia

When medications and modern technologies cannot supply an adequate amount of blood and oxygen to the organs, patients experience extreme breathlessness, fluid buildup, fatigue, and repeated hospitalizations, making even simple activities like walking, eating, or lying flat exhausting.

As the flow of blood continues to deteriorate, failure is also expected in other vital organs such as the kidneys and liver. It is at this point that the transplantation of the donor heart is considered the only treatment option to ensure that the blood flow is normalized.

How Heart Transplantation Transforms Life?

Heart transplant is not just a surgical replacement of a failing organ, but a complete life restoration for patients with end-stage heart failure.

Its benefits include:

• Normalizes Heart Functioning: A healthy donor heart can immediately restore normal and effective blood flow. This will reduce weakness and fatigue that makes carrying out everyday tasks rather difficult.
• Enhances Survival Rates: Patients diagnosed with end-stage heart failure can only experience the best post-transplant survival outcomes when they undergo the transplant procedure as compared to other medical treatments.
• Enhances Quality of Life: The patients are able to attain independence once again as they are able to walk, sleep, travel, and socialize with their families and friends.
• Prevents Frequent Hospitalization: The successful transplant procedure prevents constant hospitalization, especially in cases with deteriorating heart failure, infections, and organ dysfunction.
• Protects Other Vital Organs: By restoring adequate blood flow, heart transplantation helps reverse damage to the kidneys, liver, and lungs caused by prolonged heart failure
• Permits Return to Normal Roles and Responsibilities: Patients regain their ability to work, take care of others, and carry out their daily responsibilities, which helps their emotional well-being.