India is a tropical country. However, even in a country that receives enough sunshine most of the year, many citizens suffer from vitamin D deficiency. The paradox is due to urban lifestyles, cultural habits, and environmental elements like pollution. Let’s take a closer look. Vitamin D deficiency in Indians A May 2024 cohort study that…
Category: Health Fitness
Why US is recalling Lay’s ‘Classic’ potato chips – Firstpost
Frito-Lay, the company behind Lay’s chips, issued a limited recall on Monday in two states of the United States. An alert from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) pointed out the presence of an undeclared allergen. In the alert published on Wednesday, the packaged goods company said the bag of chips “may contain undeclared…
Journal retracts study that promoted Trump’s ‘miracle drug’ hydroxychloroquine as Covid treatment – Firstpost
In the retraction notice, Elsevier mentioned that its integrity and publishing ethics team, as well as the journal’s co-owner, the International Society of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, found multiple issues with the study read more A controversial study which promoted the use of hydroxychloroquine drug as a treatment for COVID-19 was officially withdrawn from an academic journal….
Russia’s cancer vaccine is ready. Here’s why it matters – Firstpost
Russia is all set to roll out a vaccine against cancer in the New Year. It will be available to patients for free from early 2025. According to TASS, Russia’s state-owned news agency, Andrey Kaprin, the General Director of the Radiology Medical Research Center of the Russian Ministry of Health, recently said that the country…
What is Dinga, Dinga, the excessive body shaking disease leaving people in Uganda sick? – Firstpost
A bizarre and unsettling disease has taken hold in Uganda, leaving hundreds of people, mostly women and children, shaken—literally. Known as ‘Dinga Dinga’, which translates to “shaking like dancing” in the local dialect, is a mysterious illness that causes uncontrollable body shaking and difficulties in walking. Though it has yet to cause any deaths, the…
India sets up the first diabetes biobank in Chennai. Here’s why this is significant – Firstpost
India has set up the country’s first-ever diabetes biobank in Chennai. The initiative, a collaboration between the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF), aims to boost scientific research and treatment for diabetes in the country. As per a study, India has over 10 crore diabetes cases and 13.6…
Is intermittent fasting bad for your hair? – Firstpost
Intermittent fasting is today one of the biggest trending diets in the world. The time-restricted diet permits individuals to consume the daily calorie intake in eight to twelve hours, with the remainder of the day being spent fasting. Benefits of such diets include weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, and improved diabetes control, according to studies…
Study in Lancet – Firstpost
Bowel cancers are rising among younger persons aged 25-49 as compared to older adults, according to a new study published in Lancet. The findings are notable because cancer has traditionally been associated with advanced age. Therefore, the increasing instances of cancer among younger people is a cause of concern. In their paper titled ‘Colorectal cancer…
Could bird flu trigger another pandemic? – Firstpost
H5N1 bird flu, a type of avian influenza, is once again making headlines after dozens of people in the United States were infected with the virus. Its spread to seven states and Canada this year has sparked renewed concerns about the potential for a larger outbreak. While health authorities believe the risk to the general…
In Graphics | How do we catch a cold in winter? – Firstpost
As the chilly winds blow past and the mercury plummets, there is an uptick in cases of people experiencing body aches and fever with a runny nose and cough. As the temperatures dips, it causes the air to dry up, weakening the human body’s immune system. Moreover, viruses tend to survive longer in low temperatures,…
How babies in Spain are developing werewolf syndrome – Firstpost
European babies have been developing hypertrichosis as a side effect of their parents taking anti-baldness medications. According to the Spanish daily El Pais, the Pharmacovigilance Centre of Navarre (CFN) in Spain found that 11 infants had recently had the unusual condition, also known as werewolf syndrome, which is connected to a caregiver’s usage of minoxidil….
Why FSSAI has put packaged drinking water in high-risk category – Firstpost
India’s apex food safety regulator, FSSAI, has declared packaged drinking and mineral water a ‘high-risk’ food item. This move aims to enforce stricter quality control for its manufacturers who will have to pass annual inspections and audits before their licences are granted read more What if the water you sip from a sleek, sealed bottle…
How the red ribbon became a global symbol for Aids – Firstpost
Almost 65 years after the world’s first Aids case was documented in Kinshasa in what was then the Belgian Congo, the red ribbon has become the symbol of support for this condition. Celebrities, activists and the common man across the world wear the ribbon to show their solidarity for those afflicted by the disease. But…
Worried about microplastics? You should fear lead more for your health – Firstpost
Lead exposure poses a more immediate and well-documented threat to human health compared to microplastics. In children, it can result in low IQ, stunted development, and other issues. In adults, it can cause hypertension and reproductive failure read more Microplastics— tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size— are pervasive in the environment and…
First treatment for asthma attack in 50 years. Here’s what you need to know – Firstpost
A major breakthrough in asthma treatment has been achieved through the use of Benralizumab, which researchers are calling a “game-changer.” Benralizumab, the first new treatment for asthma attacks and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in 50 years, was initially approved by US and EU regulators in 2017. It was specifically designed to treat eosinophilic asthma,…
Biden wants to make weight-loss drugs more accessible. Will it pass the Trump test? – Firstpost
Good news awaits millions of Americans suffering from obesity and desperate to shed the kilos. The Biden administration has announced a proposal to require Medicare and Medicaid to cover weight-loss drugs. The Health and Human Services (HHS) Department unveiled the proposal on Tuesday to add anti-obesity drugs like Wegovy, Zepbound, Ozempic and Mounjaro under Medicare…
How travelling can help keep you young – Firstpost
Travelling isn’t only about fun and new experiences. A new study reveals it can also make you look and feel younger. This is because of its positive physical and mental health benefits that help slows down the signs of ageing read more There’s no denying that travelling is fun. It is also the most effective form of…
What is this strain declared public health emergency by WHO? – Firstpost
Mpox, which has been spreading at a rapid rate across the world, has finally landed on India’s shores with a 38-year-old man from Kerala being positively diagnosed with the virus’ Clade 1B on Monday. Prior to this, another person was found to have the infection in Delhi, with officials later confirming that he had been…
Why respiratory health matters more than ever – Firstpost
World Lung Day, observed on September 25, seeks to raise awareness about lung health. As crucial organs responsible for supplying oxygen to every cell in the body, the increasing prevalence of lung health issues calls for urgent action. Here are some key facts about human lungs and tips for maintaining their health read more September…
Kerala confirms second mpox case, again a UAE return youth tests positive – Firstpost
The 26-year-old youth, a native of Kerala’s Ernakulam district, who returned from the UAE on Friday tested positive for mpox. He is receiving treatment at a private hospital read more A second case of mpox has been reported in Kerala where a 26-year-old youth who recently returned from the UAE has tested positive. As per…
Do you exercise only on the weekend? Is that enough? – Firstpost
It’s no secret that exercise is essential for health and well-being. Whether it be a regular or intense weekend workout, the benefits are quite similar, according to new research. Both workout routines were found to reduce risks across the full spectrum of human disease, including hypertension, diabetes, mood disorders and kidney disease. Let’s take a…
The alarming surge in cardiovascular diseases and how to combat them – Firstpost
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for 32 per cent of global fatalities. According to statistics from the World Health Organisation, CVDs claimed 17.9 million lives in 2019 with heart attacks and of these deaths, 85% were died due to heart attack and stroke. A staggering 75% of CVDs accounted…
Israeli strikes kill 120 Palestinians in Gaza within 48 hours – Firstpost
Israel says Hamas uses hospitals and civilians as human shields, and has made public videos and photos to support that claim. Hamas rejects the allegations and says it does not use the civilian population or facilities for military purposes. read more Israeli airstrikes across Gaza have killed at least 120 Palestinians in the past 48…
How diet, exercise and stress management can lower cardiovascular disease risk – Firstpost
Unhealthy lifestyle choices and environmental factors significantly contribute to the risk of developing heart disease and stroke. The most important behavioural risk factors include unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and harmful alcohol consumption. read more Maintaining heart health demands a multifaceted strategy including a balanced diet, regular exercise and proactive management of risk factors…
It’s okay to not be okay but K-dramas are good for mental health. Here’s why – Firstpost
Korean shows are all the rage right now, but did you know they can improve mental health? From showing deep grief to intense happiness, they can tap into multiple emotions. Like art therapy, watching K-dramas can help deal with anxiety and depression, say experts read more Are you a K-drama lover? Have you binged on…
What is it, how is it different from pneumonia? – Firstpost
Delhi’s air quality has been oscillating between ‘severe’ to ‘severe-plus’ categories for the past few days. The crisis has led to an increasing number of people seeking medical attention. The deteriorating air quality is not only affecting people with pre-existing health conditions but also healthy individuals. There has also been a rise in cases of…
Why is it so difficult to lose weight? ‘Fat cells’ may be the reason – Firstpost
Losing weight is a challenging process, but keeping it off can be even more difficult. Researchers have been investigating why this happens, and they may have found the answer. Studies suggest that even after weight loss, fat cells retain a “memory” of obesity. This finding explains why maintaining weight loss can be so tough. The…
What is this disease? – Firstpost
Labyrinthitis can lead to vertigo— a sensation of spinning— dizziness, nausea, and potential hearing loss read more World Health Organisation (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has been hospitalised in Rio de Janeiro’s Hospital Samaritano Barra da Tijuca, according to a report by local newspaper O Globo on Thursday (November 21). Tedros sought medical attention after…
What is the highly-infectious Marburg viral disease that killed 6 in Rwanda? – Firstpost
The virus can be transmitted from bats to primates, including humans, and then spread through direct contact with blood or other body fluids from infected individuals read more Six people have died in Rwanda following an outbreak of the Marburg virus, the country’s health ministry said Saturday (September 29). Rwanda’s Health Minister, Sabin Nsanzimana, confirmed…
What we know about the disease – Firstpost
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has been diagnosed with a bacterial disease known as leptospirosis. The 50-year-old AAP leader was admitted to Fortis Hospital in Mohali for a routine check-up following tropical fever, the subsequent blood tests confirmed the infection. According to a health bulletin released by the hospital on Saturday, the chief minister is…
How Chinese scientists ‘cured’ type 1 diabetes – Firstpost
Chinese scientists claimed to have cured a type 1 diabetes patient using cell transplants in what was stated to be the first such case in the world. The 25-year-old patient, who had the chronic condition for over a decade, was able to naturally regulate her blood sugar some 2.5 months after undergoing the minimally invasive…
Why women should opt for regular screenings after 40 – Firstpost
It is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, also known as ‘Pink October’. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers that affects women and people assigned female at birth, including transgender men and nonbinary people. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer caused 670,000 deaths globally in 2022. The disease is treatable when…
Can cake from your local bakery give you cancer? Karnataka govt’s warning explained – Firstpost
Do you love treating yourself to a visually stunning cake from your local bakery? You might want to think twice before your next bite. In a recent warning, the Karnataka Food Safety Department highlighted the use of potentially cancer-causing ingredients in cakes made by local bakeries. These cakes were found to contain artificial colours, more…
England mulls to ban vaping outside schools and hospitals in a bid to safeguard children – Firstpost
Ministers in England are pushing for a bill in the British parliament which aims to ban vaping outside schools and hospitals. The endeavour is being taken amid growing concerns over the rise in figures of young adults consuming vapes in the UK read more Ministers in England are mulling to ban vaping in playgrounds, hospital…
Why are eye transplants so rare and challenging? – Firstpost
Three years ago, Aaron James, a utility lineman, lost half of his face and his arm when he was struck by a high-voltage electrical cable. Last year, the 47-year-old received a face and whole-eye transplant – the first of its kind. The surgery took 21 hours and involved 140 healthcare professionals. James is making remarkable…
India is the world’s diabetes capital. Here’s why samosas, cakes are to blame – Firstpost
Are you among those who cannot resist India’s beloved snack samosa? Are cakes and cookies your comfort food? Then it is high time to read this report. A first-of-its-kind clinical trial has revealed a link between foods rich in advanced glycation end products (AGEs), including ultra-processed and fast foods, and India’s status as the world’s…
Mental health crisis among Indian children may be closely linked to biochemical factors – Firstpost
The 2021 State of the World’s Children Report highlighted that South Asia, East Asia, and the Pacific have the highest numbers of teenagers facing mental health problems. A survey by UNICEF and Gallup in early 2021 found that children in India were reluctant to seek help for mental stress. Mental health encompasses more than just…
Advances in stem cell and gene therapy offer new hope for arthritis treatment – Firstpost
Approximately 18 million people globally lived with rheumatoid arthritis in 2019, with women accounting for a staggering 70% of those affected, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The disease also disproportionately affects older people, with 55% of sufferers aged 55 years or older. A significant proportion – 13 million – experience moderate to severe…
Why measles cases have risen by 20% across the world – Firstpost
Cases of measles are increasing worldwide. According to a study, about 10 million people caught the world’s most infectious disease last year, a 20 per cent rise compared with 2022. A decline in vaccination coverage is the primary driver of a rise in disease cases. The study cautioned that a global target of eliminating measles…
Experts call arthritis a ‘silent epidemic,’ urge early diagnosis to prevent lasting damage – Firstpost
In view of alarming rise of arthritis globally and in India, experts have referred arthritis as silent epidemic and called for avoiding delayed diagnosis while emphasising for detecting the disease early to prevent irreversible harm. Experts warn that Arthritis, often considered a disease of the elderly, has become one of the most widespread health conditions…
Study in Lancet – Firstpost
The groundbreaking international study found that the rates of diabetes in adults doubled from about 7 per cent to about 14 per cent from 1990 to 2022 read more A new study by Lancet found that the number of people suffering from diabetes has doubled over the past 30 years to more than 800 million…
How India became the world’s ‘capital of untreated diabetics’ – Firstpost
India is already infamous as the ‘diabetes capital of the world’. A recent report published in The Lancet has made another concerning revelation – not only did India account for the highest number of diabetics in 2022 but it also had the most cases of untreated diabetes worldwide. The study, conducted by the NCD Risk…
How should you place your arm during a blood pressure reading? – Firstpost
Researchers have found that improper arm positioning can affect the accuracy of blood pressure readings. The study is significant because variations in readings may result in an increased number of high blood pressure diagnoses and the prescription of unnecessary medications to patients. Let’s take a closer look. What does the study say? Researchers at Johns…
How smoking is increasing your chances of having a oral disease – Firstpost
A recent report by the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that 8 million people die annually from smoking related complications. Despite efforts by governments and various organisations to create awareness about the dangers, around 1.3 billion people still use some form of tobacco and 80 per cent of them live in low to middle income…
Why India has most oral cancer cases in South Asia – Firstpost
India has previously been dubbed the ‘cancer capital of the world.’ A recent study points out just how significant this health crisis has become. The research published in the leading medical journal The Lancet Oncology revealed that India accounted for a staggering 83,400 of the global 120,200 oral cancer cases reported in 2022. The study…
What is hormone replacement therapy that Sanjay Bangar’s child underwent? – Firstpost
Former Indian cricketer and coach Sanjay Bangar’s son, Aryan Bangar, has been in the news lately — not for his profession but for his quest for self-discovery. Aryan has come out as a transgender woman after a gender transition procedure called hormonal replacement therapy (HRT). The 23-year-old cricketer now goes by the name ‘Anaya Bangar’….
Why young couples are going for pre-wedding screening – Firstpost
Genetic screening is crucial in identifying potential genetic disorders, enabling couples to make informed decisions about their future. It includes testing for diseases like sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, and cystic fibrosis. read more In many Arab countries, such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, premarital genetic screening is mandatory due to the…
Do you forget easily? Here’s why the slip from memory might be good for you – Firstpost
Forgetting is part of our daily lives. You may walk into a room only to forget why you went in there – or perhaps someone says hi on the street and you can’t remember their name. But why do we forget things? Is it simply a sign of memory impairment, or are there benefits? One…
In Graphics | What breathing polluted air does to your body? – Firstpost
Delhi’s air quality was in the poor category for a third day straight on Wednesday. From burning eyes to asthma attacks, here is how dangerous polluted air is for the human body read more With an air quality index (AQI) of 207, Delhi’s air remained in ‘poor’ quality on Thursday. Emissions from transportation account for…
Doctor Explains | Loneliness now a mental health epidemic, needs to be tackled to avert social disaster – Firstpost
Young people are now lonelier than ever — and young men are the loneliest. For decades, young people have reported declining friendships, declining quality of friendships, and rising loneliness. This is more acute among young men and is affecting not just their personal health but is emerging as a societal concern as well. In 2019,…
How safe are your Kellogg’s? The protest against the cereal maker explained – Firstpost
Kellogg’s is one of the most popular cereal brands in the US, however, the company has recently been facing the wrath of hundreds of consumers calling for the company to hold up a key promise: eliminating artificial dyes. Nearly a decade ago, Kellogg’s pledged to remove “harmful additives” from popular cereals such as Froot Loops…
Experts stress early detection, lifestyle and technology’s role in breast cancer survival – Firstpost
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer type among women worldwide and the leading cause of death in women. Annually, over 2.3 million breast cancer cases are reported, making it the most common cancer among adults. In 95% of countries, breast cancer ranks as the first or second leading cause of female cancer deaths….
Breakdancing can lead to ‘cone-shaped’ head. Here’s how – Firstpost
Break dancers are prone to developing a unique condition known as ‘headspin hole’, also called a ‘breakdancer bulge’. It entails a cone shaped mass forming on top of the scalp after repetitive head-spinning. The symptoms can include inflammation of their scalp, hair loss and even pain around the lump read more For those of a…
Can weight-loss drugs like Ozempic help fight addiction? – Firstpost
Ozempic, the well-known weight-loss drug, is back in the spotlight—this time for its potential to reduce cravings for alcohol and drugs. A recent study analysed millions of health records from nearly a decade and revealed that medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro might help individuals battling addiction. These drugs, primarily used to manage diabetes and promote…
How long can you stand on one leg? It reveals how much you will live – Firstpost
According to a new study, how long one stands on one leg, especially the non-dominant one, is a clear indicator of age-related decline. Researchers at the Mayo Clinic found that the ability to balance on one leg declines more quickly with age than walking gait, grip, and knee strength assessments read more Balance is the…
What’s the 15th-century disease ‘scurvy’ making a comeback? – Firstpost
Scurvy may not be a disease you might have heard of in the 21st century. Yet, about 300 years after naval surgeon James Lind discovered citrus juice as a remedy for this 15th-century disease, the condition has re-emerged. Caused by vitamin C deficiency, scurvy was once widespread, particularly among 18th-century sailors who spent long periods…
Why women face double the risk of osteoporosis compared to men – Firstpost
Osteoporosis has emerged as a significant public health concern in India, with alarming statistics revealing that approximately 61 million people are affected by the condition, of which 80 percent are women. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 30 percent of postmenopausal women globally suffer from osteoporosis, highlighting a pressing issue that requires urgent attention….
Why men must be aware of breast cancer risks – Firstpost
The signs of male breast cancer can closely resemble those seen in women read more Many people are unaware that men can also be affected by breast cancer. Although male breast cancer accounts for less than 1 per cent of all breast cancer cases, this fact is significant and deserves attention. Men possess breast tissue,…
All about U-WIN, India’s new online vaccine portal for pregnant women, children – Firstpost
Giving a significant boost to India’s Universal Immunisation Programme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday will unveil U-WIN, an online portal that will revolutionise vaccination tracking in the country. Much like CoWIN, which managed COVID-19 vaccinations, U-WIN will create a centralised digital record for vaccinations given to both pregnant women and children. The digital platform…
What is catatonic stupor? – Firstpost
In a heartbreaking incident, a woman in China suffered from a severe psychological breakdown after she was reprimanded by her boss at work. According to the South China Morning Post, the woman, identified as Li from central China’s Henan province has become a “stiff wooden person” who doesn’t eat, drink or move and needs to…
Mumma mayo! Why has Telangana banned mayonnaise? – Firstpost
The Telangana government in response to recent health scares has placed an immediate ban on the production and sale of mayonnaise made from raw eggs. This urgent move comes on the heels of troubling reports from Hyderabad, where a spate of foodborne illnesses—including one death and several hospitalisations—were linked to contaminated mayonnaise used in popular…
What’s the Atlantic diet, the cousin of the famous Mediterranean diet? How healthy is it?
Are you conscious about what you eat? Are you also mindful of the environment? The Atlantic diet is for you. Not only it is good for your health but also for the planet. The Atlantic diet, which is all the rage these days, is the cousin of the famous Mediterranean diet. It’s the traditional diet…
4 ways how cancer care has improved in India
Cancer cases are expected to exceed 35 million by 2050, up from an estimated 20 million in 2022, said the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Image used for representational purposes/Pixabay Cancer care in India is undergoing a profound transformation, marked by a shift towards more effective and personalized treatment strategies. The nation is…
WHO applauds extension of healthcare coverage to ASHA, Anganwadi workers under Ayushman Bharat Scheme
Dr Roderico H. Ofrin, WHO Representative to India. Source: who.int The World Health Organization, or WHO, welcomed the Budget 2024 announcement of extension of healthcare coverage to ASHA, Anganwadi workers and helpers under Ayushman Bharat Scheme. “ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, and helpers are at the forefront of health and care delivery at the grassroots level….
Can Alzheimer’s disease spread from person to person?
The study raises new questions about Alzheimer’s disease. Image used for representational purposes/Pixabay You can’t ‘catch’ Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia. Until now. A new study has revealed that five people may have “caught” the brain disorder after receiving growth hormone from human cadavers during childhood. The study, published in the journal…
Reese Witherspoon think it’s okay to eat snow. What does science say?
Hollywood’s Reese Witherspoon is whipping up a storm on social media with her new winter dessert. She has sparked a debate with even health experts wading in after she shared a video of herself making a “Snow Salt Chococinno” on TikTok. It went so far that the Hollywood star had to make another three videos…
Demand, challenges, and way forward
Representational image. Pixabay In India, there are more than 2 million Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 5 (CKD5) patients who have only two options to stay alive – transplant or maintenance dialysis. With transplant having its challenges, dialysis hence is the mainstay of survival for these patients. Significant numbers get added every year with a high…
Can birth control cause infertility?
Birth control measures do not cause infertility. AP Infertility poses a significant challenge for numerous couples globally, with approximately 40 per cent to 50 per cent of cases attributed to female infertility. Amidst this concern, it is crucial to highlight a reassuring fact: a woman’s future ability to conceive is not contingent on her current…
Having trouble sleeping? Suffering from anxiety? You might be suffering from COVID
It’s the New Year and COVID cases continue to rise in the country and across the globe. The country’s COVID caseload has seen a significant jump thanks to the new JN.1 sub-variant, which experts call highly transmissible but milder. And as the highly-contagious Omicron subvariant (JN.1) spreads across the country as well as the world,…
Why giving up alcohol for a month is a good idea
The festivities and parties have come to an end. We have bid adieu to 2023 and we are welcoming a new year, 2024, with much vigour and whim. For many across the globe, the advent of a new year also means ‘Dry January’. But what does Dry January mean? Where did it begin? And what…
A Daily Routine for Male Skin
Moisturizing is essential for every skincare routine, regardless of gender (Image: Pexels) Skincare is not just for women; men need to take care of their skin, too. Male skin has unique characteristics that require a tailored skincare routine. In this article, we will explore the essential steps and products that men can incorporate into their…
Know what WHO’s updated guidance on treatments for COVID-19 says?
Based on the latest clinical trial evidence for existing and new therapies, the World Health Organization (WHO) has updated its guidance treatments for patients with the COVID-19. The health body said the updated COVID-19 guidance provides latest, trustworthy advice on the management of the disease to help doctors make better decisions. The guidance takes account…
Common Skin Problems and Their Solutions
Dry skin is often characterised by itching, redness, and flakiness. (Image: Pexels) Our skin is a remarkable organ, serving as a protective barrier against the external environment. However, various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental conditions, can contribute to a range of common skin problems. In this guide, we’ll dive into some of these issues…
Will the state impose curbs for New Year’s?
A medic puts up a notice at a COVID-19 testing centre of the district hospital after cases of COVID-19 sub-variant JN.1 were detected in the country, in Chikkamagaluru district. Karnataka is witnessing a surge in COVID cases. PTI New Year is just around the corner and people in India are all gearing up for the…
The Importance of Mental Health in Science of Skin
The mind-skin connection underscores the importance of a holistic approach to well-being. (Image: Pexels) In the intricate dance between mind and body, the skin emerges as a canvas that reflects the intricacies of our mental well-being. Beyond its physical appearance, the skin serves as a powerful communicator of our emotional states and internal struggles. The…
A balancing act we must get right
Representational Image. Pixabay The healthcare industry is experiencing an unprecedented wave of digital transformation. Aided by technologies such as Electronic Medical Records (EMRs), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and more, healthcare providers are revolutionising the way they deliver services. This transformation is not merely about replacing paper with digital records; it’s about harnessing the power of data…
Understanding the effect of Natural against Synthetic Skincare Products
The choice between natural and synthetic skincare products depends on individual preferences, skin type, and ethical considerations (Image: Pexels) In a world where the beauty industry offers an abundance of skincare options, the natural vs. synthetic debate has become a focal point for consumers seeking radiant, healthy skin. The quest for the perfect skincare routine…
Identifying the culprits of Acne and Navigating Effective Treatments
Acne is a common challenge, but armed with knowledge and a proactive approach, you can navigate the journey towards clearer and healthier skin (Image: Zrinka Peters/ Health Digest) Acne, a seemingly universal rite of passage, can affect individuals of all ages and backgrounds. This common skin condition is more than just a surface-level concern; it…
Navigating Skincare for Mature Skin with Grace
Mature skin tends to be drier as the skin’s ability to retain moisture diminishes. (Image: Pexels) As the pages of time turn, our skin undergoes changes that reflect the journey of life. While ageing is a natural part of this odyssey, embracing mature skin can be a beautiful experience with the right care. In this…
Understanding and Managing PCOS and PCOD in Women
Regular cheque-ups with healthcare professionals are essential to monitor symptoms (Image: Pexels) In the intricate tapestry of women’s health, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) stand as significant challenges, affecting the lives of many. These conditions, often used interchangeably, share similarities but also have distinct characteristics. We intend to delve into the…
Unveiling the secrets to identify and treat alopecia
Identifying and treating alopecia is a multifaceted journey that requires a combination of medical interventions, lifestyle adjustments, and emotional support (Image Courtesy: Pexels) In the intricate world of beauty and self-expression, our hair plays a significant role. However, for many individuals, the journey takes an unexpected turn with the onset of alopecia. This condition, characterized…
Understanding Hormonal Changes During Menopause and Their Impact on the Body
Menopause is a natural and inevitable stage in a woman’s life, marked by hormonal changes that affect various aspects of health and well-being. (Image: Pexels) Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life that marks the end of her reproductive years. It typically occurs in the late 40s or early 50s, and one of…
Could JN.1 COVID variant affect your holiday travel? Where are cases rising in India, world?
The JN.1 variant of the novel coronavirus has India and the world on alert. With the year-end holidays here, millions are travelling within the country and abroad. The surging cases might have you wondering if it is safe to continue with the plans. In India, Kerala and Goa, both popular tourist destinations, have reported cases…
Navigating the Adolescent Brain: Puberty and Neurological Development
The prefrontal cortex, often referred to as the “executive center” of the brain, undergoes significant development during puberty. (Image: Pexels) Puberty is a transformative period marked by physical changes, emotional shifts, and, notably, significant alterations in neurological development. As adolescents navigate this crucial stage, understanding the cognitive changes associated with puberty becomes paramount. In this…
Is India on the cusp of another COVID wave?
In the winter of 2021, India detected its first case of the Omicron coronavirus variant, which then spread rapidly, fuelling a third wave in the country. Now, a year-and-a-half-later, the nation is once again witnessing a rise in JN.1 cases, causing people to worry about yet another COVID wave. On Wednesday (20 December), India confirmed…
What are the symptoms to look out for?
Amid the festive season, COVID-19 has reared its ugly head once again. The number of coronavirus infections across the globe is seeing an uptick with many attributing the rise to COVID-19 sub-variant JN.1. On Tuesday, reacting to the rise in cases, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified it as a “variant of interest” separate from…
Why people who obsess about their health die faster than those who don’t
The illness anxiety disorder is more common in those who have had a family member with a serious illness. Image courtesy: Pixabay People who worry excessively about their health tend to die earlier than those who don’t, a recent study from Sweden has found. It seems strange that hypochondriacs who, by definition, worry yet have…
Parental Strategies for Handling Children’s Moods and Changes During Puberty
Puberty often brings about changes in physical appearance that can impact self-esteem (Image: Pexels) Puberty is a tumultuous phase of life, marked by physical, emotional, and psychological transformations. As children navigate this journey of self-discovery, parents play a pivotal role in providing support and understanding. Acknowledging and addressing the moods and changes during puberty is…
Can JN.1 COVID variant play partypooper in India this holiday season?
After a lull in infections, India is suddenly seeing an uptick in COVID cases, playing party-pooper ahead of the festive season. As of Tuesday (19 December), the country reported 260 new cases of COVID-19, taking the overall active case tally to 1,828. The rise in COVID cases coincides with the discovery of the first JN.1…
Why Knowing CPR Could Be Your Most Important Skill
Life is unpredictable, and emergencies can happen at any time. Whether it’s a sudden cardiac arrest, choking, or a near-drowning incident, being equipped with the knowledge of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) can make the crucial difference between life and death. In this article, we explore the profound impact of knowing the CPR process and how it…
The Art of Balancing Protein Intake for Optimal Well-being
Proteins are the building blocks of life, participating in an array of vital physiological processes. (Image: Pexels) In the ever-evolving landscape of wellness, maintaining a balanced diet stands as a cornerstone for overall health. Among the macronutrients, protein plays a pivotal role in supporting numerous bodily functions, making the art of balancing protein intake essential….
Understanding breast cancer diagnosis and navigating treatment choices
Rachita’s life took an unexpected turn when the possibility of breast cancer loomed large. Fear and uncertainty gripped her, like so many others facing a potentially life-changing diagnosis. However, Rachita didn’t let fear dictate her journey. After several conversations with her doctor, she chose to face it head-on and underwent the necessary tests and treatments…
A surprising ally for mental health
Ice cream is more than just sugar and fat. AP In the realm of dietary discussions, ice cream often finds itself labelled as a guilty pleasure, synonymous with indulgence rather than health. However, beyond its reputation for decadence, ice cream possesses nutritional elements that can positively impact mental well-being. Surprising as it may seem, this…
Always hooked to digital screens? You may have dry eyes
Representational image. AP With the rising use of phones, tablets, laptops, and TVs, our eyes are always glued to digital screens. In fact, you might be reading this article on your phone or laptop. The COVID-19 pandemic also enhanced people’s usage of visual displays. This increased dependence on screens has a negative impact on our…
So far in 2023 mosquito-borne disease has infected 5 million, killed 5,500
The year is coming to an end, but the dengue outbreak across the globe has refused to show signs of abating with over five million cases and 5,500 deaths so far. The vector-borne disease has forced governments and public health experts to sound the alarm. While dengue has hitherto been considered native to warm climatic…
