About Us

Vision

To create a healthier future for GDM mothers in rural India by empowering them with knowledge, resources, and community support, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes, and promoting lifelong well-being.

Mission

Implementing a peer-led, community-based P-MED intervention that improves self-management, lifestyle modification, and knowledge among GDM mothers is our mission. We seek to prevent diabetes, enhance maternal health, and include sustainable, community-driven healthcare solutions through organized nutrition education, physical activity recommendations, stress management, and digital technologies.

BIO-SKETCH OF PI

Dr Uma V Sankar MPH, Ph.D, PGDCR, PGDMLE Research Administrator – Clinical Research

Dr Uma V Sankar specializes in sponsored project management, supporting research initiative formulation, evaluation, implementation, and compliance. From locating funding sources and creating project scopes to submitting proposals, negotiating awards, and guaranteeing programmatic and financial compliance, her job covers every stage of the project lifecycle. To expedite approvals and support meaningful research, she works with clinical sciences units, academic institutions, research institutes, and central administrators. Her current focus is on public health interventional projects, using evidence-based efforts to promote significant change.

CO-INVESTIGATORS

Dr. Shameema Anvarsadath MBBS, MD in Obstetrics & Gynaecology, DNB, Fellow in RCOG, MNAMS, FICRS, MRCOG. Senior Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology & IVF

With over 23 years of expertise, Dr. Shameema Anvarsadath is a gynecologist and obstetrician who specializes in managing infertility. She began practicing reproductive medicine in 2006 and worked with internationally recognized IVF specialists while employed by Kuwait's Ministry of Health, which possesses the sole facility of its kind in the nation.

Dr. Sunu C. Thomas MPH Ph.D Assistant Professor, Department of Public Health, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences & Research.

At Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham School of Medicine in Kochi, Dr. Sunu C. Thomas holds the position of Assistant Professor of Public Health. She holds an MPH and PhD from the Achutha Menon Centre, SCTIMST, Trivandrum. Gender and Health, Bioethics, Sexual and Reproductive Health, Health Policy, Medicalization of Health, Political Economy, and Research Methodology are among her areas of interest.

Dr. Santhosh Kumar N MBBS, MS (ENT), Fellowship (Head and Neck Surgical Oncology (RCC), Foundation course (Pain & Palliative medicine), CO2 laser training (Head & Neck Cancer), Professional certificate programme (EMDP) in Business (IIM). Consultant - Head and Neck Surgical Oncology

Dr.Santhosh Kumar N is a highly experienced Head and Neck Surgeon specializing in cancer treatment and surgeries, with extensive training from institutions like JIPMER and RCC Thiruvananthapuram. Currently at Aster Medcity, he has performed over 2000 thyroid surgeries and has expertise in head and neck reconstruction, oral cancer, and laryngeal surgeries. A published author and filmmaker, he actively contributes to cancer awareness through medical research, writing, and creative works.

Praveen Sankaran Ph.D Assistant Professor, NIT Calicut

Praveen Shankaran has extensive experience as an investigator, leading and collaborating on multiple funded research projects. Notable studies include research on Immediate KMC, funded by WHO, published in NEJM 2021, and an AI-based breast tumor classification project, funded by HEFA-CSR, published in Biomedical Signal Processing and Control, 2024. His work spans clinical and technological innovations, contributing to advancements in healthcare. He has played a key role in project execution, funding acquisition, and scientific publications.

Ms. Parvathy Rajan M.Sc Biotechnology Assistant Manager - Clinical Research

Parvathy Rajan coordinates all Intramural and Extramural project activities at Aster Medcity, managing clinical trial contracts, invoicing, and study start-ups. She works closely with the Scientific and Ethics Committee for study approvals and oversees sponsored project development, compliance, and financial management.

TEAM MEMBERS

Dr. Maya Chacko BDS, MPH Project Scientist 1, Clinical Research

Maya Chacko is a dedicated public health professional with a background in dentistry and a passion for community health initiatives. Her experience spans research, health education, and disease surveillance, with a focus on improving public health outcomes. She is committed to evidence-based interventions and policy advocacy to create healthier communities.

Brijith Jacqulin MSW Senior Project Assistant

Brijith Jacqulin specializes in social work, healthcare research, and community outreach. With experience in gestational diabetes management, national health surveys, and NGO initiatives, she excels in research, patient education, and programme coordination.

Anaswara T MSW Senior Project Assistant

Anaswara T is a compassionate social worker with expertise in mental health, community development, and healthcare interventions. With experience in counseling, case management, and project facilitation, she is dedicated to empowering underserved populations and driving meaningful social change.

Sreeparvathy V MSW Technical Assistant

Sreeparvathy V is a passionate social worker with expertise in community development, crisis intervention and programme development. She provides technical support and assistance, focusing on collecting, organizing, and managing research data, ensuring its accuracy and integrity.