The GOPIO Logo / Photo courtesy: GOPIO

The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) held a webinar titled, 'Indian Medicinal Wisdom: Strategies for Modern Maladies', the third installment of its ongoing webinar series.

The Sept. 13 discussion brought together subject matter experts on ancient medicine and modern medicine, practitioners of combined healthcare approaches, community leaders, and global participants to share insights and best practices.

The session was moderated by public health leader and community advocate, Aparna Hande, the Medical Council Co-chair of GOPIO. She kicked off the discussion by highlighting that the session was to encourage active global Indian Diaspora participation with discussions emphasizing the effectiveness of combining modern medicine with evidence-based traditional practices for both prevention and treatment.

GOPIO Associate Secretary Sunil Vuppala, who also serves as the Chair of the Webinar Series, welcomed the attendees. GOPIO Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham shared the history of the organization that spans over three decades.

ALSO READ: Sam Pitroda leads GOPIO webinar on 'What AI Can Do For You?'

The Chief Guest for the session was Padma Shri Recipient Dr. Sudhir Parikh, an allergist and immunologist. He is also the president-elect of Global Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (GAPIO), which represents 1.4 million Indian physicians worldwide.

Celebrating the co-existence and mutual support that exists between Ayurveda and modern medicine, he said, “Ayurvedic and modern medicine can both be effective for certain diseases, provided the ancient remedies meet standard dosage and quality requirements.”

Dr. Indranill Basu-Ray, a Cardiologist and Prof. of Public Health, Director of Research and Chair, GOPIO Medical Council also attended the session.  

A long-term advocate of Yoga, he said, “Yoga is not a religion; it is a lifestyle practice. Adopting healthy lifestyle changes is the best medicine for a healthy life, supported by both research and modern medicine.”

Joshi Health Foundation  CEO, Dr. Nirmal Joshi, spoke on 'The Epidemic of Heart Attacks in Young Indians – The Crisis and the Solutions.'. He uncovered the reasons behind this growing crisis and noted that there is an alarming epidemic of early and severe heart attacks in Indians, highlighting the need for immediate and urgent action.

Pulmonologist Dr. Tina Shah, a puclic health advocate, currently a Democratic candidate for a Congressional seat in New Jersey (NJ-07) shared her insights under the theme “Ancient Wisdom in Healthcare and Medicine”, bridging modern science with timeless health traditions.

Dr. Shah said, “Clean air is essential for the health of every organ in our body, and we must take a public health approach in our society to promote policies that reduce air pollution.” 

A screengrab from the webinar / Photo courtesy: GOPIO

Endocrinologist and diabetes expert, Dr. Renu Joshi spoke on the topic, 'Not So Sweet! – Unmasking Diabetes in Indian Communities.' She further highlighted the alarming rise of diabetes and explored lessons in prevention from Ancient India.

Dr. Renu Joshi said, “Diabetes, though an ancient disease, can be prevented through a healthy lifestyle, meditation, and regular screening. Traditional medicines may help with prevention, while modern medicine plays a key role when the condition is not controlled.

Dr. Dinesh Upadhyay, Naturopathist and Yoga & Ayurvedic expert and former National Co-Convener, BJP Medical Cell, joined from India. He serves as the Sampark Pramukh for Delhi Pradesh with Chikitsak Sangh and Arogya Bharati.

He noted, “Ancient Indian medicine can be integrated into mainstream healthcare to promote preventive care, wellness, and effective treatment.”

Ms. Chhavi Chawla, a Health Advisor, Environmental Advocate and Millet Ambassador was the final speaker. Chawla is also author of “Live Healthy, Lifelong” and founder of a philanthropic trust, she inspires communities through holistic living and her platform @Saveragirl.

Chawla said, “When food is right, medicine is not needed; when food is wrong, no medicine works."

GOPIO General Secretary Siddharth Jain thanked the attendees and appealed for collaboration, education, and ongoing dialogue among Diaspora communities.