The arrival of a new year is often accompanied by a sense of optimism and renewed enthusiasm to make big changes to our lives. While many resolve to quit bad habits, get healthier, or learn new skills, these aspirational resolutions may overwhelm you. The temptation to undergo significant changes can backfire rapidly, resulting in inflated expectations, psychological distress, and even physical injury. The key to sustainable progress, however, remains adopting a more realistic approach. When it comes to tempting lofty goals, it becomes critical to remember that the most effective way to create meaningful change is through small, consistent steps. To help you switch to a sustainable path of progress this year, we’ve got two mental health experts to delve into why people fall into this extreme resolution trap, the drawbacks of such resolutions, and practical tips you can adapt. Why do people feel compelled to make drastic changes at the start of the New Year? The prospect of a fresh start at the start of the year frequently sparks a desire for change. “On a psychological level, the beginning of a new year is viewed as a chance to start again. To make the upcoming year distinct from the previous one, this may occasionally force people to abandon their established routines and adopt extreme measures. Additionally, social media posts and advertising efforts that showcase personal changes provide the impression that people are under pressure to ‘improve’ themselves in some way,” explains shares Dr. Harsha G T, consultant – psychiatry, Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur. The psychiatrist tells us that drastic changes often stem from motivation rather than necessity. He shares, “For instance, when we acquire something new—be it a car, a home, or even a marriage—we tell ourselves that this is an opportunity to behave differently, to maintain or handle it better. Similarly, the new year is seen as the perfect time for self-improvement, but this enthusiasm towards massive change can be both unrealistic and counterproductive.” The negative impact of extreme resolutions on mental health Mental health can be significantly impacted by the urge to make drastic changes. “Anxiety, remorse, and feelings of inadequacy might surface when resolutions are not reached in the expected amount of time. People may feel demotivated or exhibit symptoms of depression if they start rigorous exercise or diet routines and don't notice results. The more significant process of incremental improvement may be overshadowed by the impractical quest for perfection. These failures' emotional toll frequently raises stress levels, which can worsen pre-existing mental health issues or cause burnout,” suggests Harsha. He also warns of a vicious cycle of guilt and negative self-worth when people are not able to fulfill their resolutions. He says, “A cyclic loop is created by the mental strain of attempting to reach impossible goals where tension and anxiety increase until people give up on their resolutions completely. This can contribute to feelings of defeat and exacerbate a negative self-image, undermining confidence and motivation.” The common pitfalls of setting unrealistic New Year’s resolutions Extreme resolutions can negatively impact the health of individuals. Harsha outlines the most common pitfalls of settling unrealistic New Year resolutions below: Unrealistic goal settingThe desire for big changes can lead to setting unrealistic resolutions such as extreme dieting, quitting substances like alcohol, cigarettes or other substances, and committing to hours of exercise every day that are often not feasible. Cycle of frustrationFailure to achieve desirable results eventually creates a cycle of disappointment and frustration. For instance, many individuals start their year determined to lose weight or get fitter, often by following crash diets or overexerting themselves in the gym.Physical harmThese intense shifts in behaviour, however, can lead to physical harm such as injuries, muscle strain, or exhaustion. In the case of substance use, quitting alcohol or smoking abruptly can trigger withdrawal symptoms that range from headaches and anxiety to seizures, making it difficult to continue with such drastic resolutions. Extreme dietingIn terms of dieting, many people opt for extreme forms of fasting or restrictive diets, like eliminating entire food groups or following extreme caloric deficits. This can result in health complications, such as hypoglycemia, fatigue, and irritability, not to mention cognitive impairment or mood swings. These kinds of drastic changes are not only unsustainable but also dangerous without professional guidance. How can individuals shift their focus from drastic changes to gradual, sustainable improvements? While making New Year’s resolutions, one needs to understand the impact of a meaningful transformation or change to shift their focus from a drastic change to sustainable improvements. “This involves changing your mindset to prefer gradual development over achieving perfection,” poses Dr. Ajit Dandekar, head of the department of Mental health, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai. He further stresses the importance of course correction, “Being ready for course correction when facing challenges and motivated when things don’t go your way can help you change the focus from overnight success. ‘Abstinence-violation effect,’ is when an individual considers minor hurdles to be total failure of a project. Take possible slip-ups into account, learn from mistakes and become more resilient. As explained in addiction psychology, every relapse is an opportunity to improve and ensure a successful recovery.” Dandekar suggests that the easiest way to focus more on gradual improvements is to set specific milestones to achieve your goals and be optimistic. He says, “Give more attention to achieving your goals rather than falling into the trap of being overambitious. Individuals who set the resolution of being fit, are less likely to succeed as compared to those who decide to walk for at least 30 minutes, four times a week. Focus more on a positive approach rather than setting negative goals. Setting a goal to eat nutritious food, is more likely to succeed than quitting junk food.” He concludes by stating the significance of acknowledging your progress, “Most importantly, celebrate these milestones which will further encourage you to be on the path of gradual, sustainable improvements.” 5 strategies for setting realistic and achievable goals To leverage the motivation behind New Year resolutions, one can adapt the following five strategies shared by Dandekar for sustainable improvements: Frame them smartlyThe goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and milestone-oriented. Applying these factors will help you narrow down your ambitions into achievable targets and supervise your progress. For example, instead of resolving to lose 40 kg, aim to lose 5 kg every month, by exercising at least thrice a week. Start small, end bigDon’t set too many challenges in your path, right at the start. As per the research, starting with only a couple of changes in your current routine and expanding as you achieve them will help you gain more confidence. If you want to quit drinking alcohol, decide to drink only on the weekends first, then reduce it gradually to twice a month and continue reducing the frequency over months. Anticipate and planCarefully chart all possible challenges in your path, and make plans to address them. For example, if you cannot visit the gym on some days due to extra working hours, plan simpler office or home workouts which can help you sustain the habit rather than skipping altogether. Positive approachApproach dictates motivation to achieve a goal. A positive approach is more motivating than planning to ‘quit,’ ‘reduce,’ or ‘skip’ as resolutions. Frame it as something you want to achieve rather than avoid. Decide to drink water during free time, rather than quitting smoking. Monitor and modifyKeep a daily track of your goals and don’t hesitate to modify them if the set targets are unachievable. What’s important is to bring a positive change in your life and not transform it overnight. Flexibility is key, as progress never takes place as planned. Change goals based on your experience and stay motivated to continue on the path of achieving your resolutions.
09 January,2025 05:53 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalDr Sunita Tandulwadkar, an infertility specialist, endoscopic surgeon and gynaecologist, was formally installed as the 63rd President of the Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI) during the 67th All India Congress of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (AICOG 2025) at Jio World Convention Centre on Wednesday. “It is both an honour and a responsibility to lead an organisation as influential as FOGSI, which represents over 46,000 obstetricians and gynaecologists across 277 societies in India,” said Dr Tandulwadkar. Through this role, she aims to address critical challenges in women’s health and advance healthcare accessibility, education and preventive care across India. Key health challenges faced by women in India Some key challenges in women’s healthcare in the country that need to be addressed on priority include: Maternal health and mortality: Despite progress, India still faces a high maternal mortality rate. Lack of awareness about preconception care and inadequate antenatal checkups are major contributing factors. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs): Women in India are increasingly at risk of chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and anaemia. Unawareness, poor lifestyle habits and limited access to healthcare exacerbate these issues. Cervical cancer: According to a 2022 report by Global Cancer Observatory, cervical cancer is the second most common type of cancer among women in India. This is largely due to limited awareness about preventive measures like HPV vaccination. Access to healthcare: Rural and underserved communities often lack access to quality healthcare services, with a significant number of women not having regular check-ups or timely treatment for conditions like PCOS, fibroids and reproductive health issues. Reproductive health awareness: Many women lack access to basic education on reproductive health, often leading to late diagnoses of conditions such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts and infertility. Initiatives to address challenges in women’s healthcare Revealing initiatives for addressing the above challenges and improving women’s healthcare in the country, Dr Tandulwadkar said, “This presidency provides an unparalleled opportunity to launch initiatives that empower women with knowledge and resources, ensuring healthier lives and stronger communities. Through programs like Sampoorna: Swastha Janma Abhiyan, Know Your Numbers and Do Teeke Zindagi Ke, we aim to create lasting change by prioritising proactive health management and early interventions.” Sampoorna: Swastha Janma Abhiyan This nationwide campaign emphasises the importance of preconception care to improve pregnancy outcomes and reduce maternal and neonatal mortality. Expected impact: Over 1 million women will benefit from health camps and educational drives to promote planned pregnancies. By addressing health literacy and raising awareness about managing five key health indicators—weight, blood pressure, hemoglobin levels, blood sugar and thyroid function—this initiative is expected to reduce maternal mortality rates by 20 per cent in participating regions and improve neonatal health outcomes across the country. Know Your Numbers This health data collection initiative aims to gather vital statistics, including weight, blood pressure, hemoglobin and HbA1C levels, from over one million women across India. Expected impact: By identifying early signs of chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension and anaemia, this program is projected to reduce preventable health complications in 10 lakh women annually. The initiative will also provide valuable epidemiological insights, helping policymakers design targeted interventions tailored to the needs of diverse populations across India’s urban and rural landscapes. Do Teeke Zindagi Ke This large-scale project aims to combat cervical cancer by increasing awareness about screening and HPV vaccination. Expected impact: With plans to reach 5 million women and girls through vaccination awareness campaigns, this initiative aims to increase HPV vaccination rates by 30 per cent in key regions over the next year. By prioritising education and accessibility, the program seeks to significantly lower cervical cancer incidence, ensuring a safer future for women nationwide.
09 January,2025 04:08 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAmid concerns surrounding the Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) virus, WHO official, Margaret Harris, said that the rise observed in the number of common respiratory infections, is 'common' during winter and spring.She further added that as per Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the pathogens causing the disease are "known ones.""There has indeed been a rise in a number of common respiratory infections in the country. And this is entirely expected during the winter. China has a sentinel surveillance system for influenza-like illness and severe respiratory infections," she said.Harris said that the pathogens are known ones and can be tackled, including the pathogens of Covid 19."According to the Chinese CDC data, the pathogens causing these infections are known ones. And they include the seasonal influenza virus, the respiratory syncytial virus, also known as RSV, and of course, the human metanumavirus, HMPV, as well as our old friend SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19," she said.The WHO official further said that seasonal influenza is a common one that crops up for testing."Now among the pathogens reported by China's CDC, seasonal influenza is by far the most common that's coming up in all the testing. And it's increasing. The test positivity rate for influenza at the end of December was over 30 per cent among people presenting with the flu-like symptoms in outpatient and emergency departments sentinel sites," she said.She added that the cases regarding respiratory illnesses reported by China are within the normal range."China's reported levels of respiratory infections are within the normal range. It's what we expect to see for the winter season. Authorities report that hospital utilisation is currently actually lower than this time last year and have been no emergency declarations. Regarding Human metapneumovirus, it's not a new virus. So it's got an unusual name, so there's been a lot of interest. But it is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001. It has been in the human population for a long time. It is a common virus that circulates in winter and spring. It usually causes respiratory symptoms similar to the common cold," she said.Harris said that precautions to avoid contacting the disease are simple. They are same as the ones followed during Covid 19."So our advice to those who are in the winter season is to try to avoid getting ill in the first place, try to avoid getting infected and simple measures as we know we've all been very well trained by coronavirus, by by COVID-19, are simple measures can prevent spread," she said. Also Read: HMPV outbreak in China: A few FAQs answered; here's all you need to know This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
09 January,2025 02:03 PM IST | Geneva | ANIA new study has revealed that dementia reduced life expectancy by about two years for people with a diagnosis at age 85, 3-4 years with a diagnosis at age 80, and up to 13 years with a diagnosis at age 65. A systematic review of the latest evidence in The BMJ (British Medical Journal) found that average life expectancy of people diagnosed with dementia ranges from 9 years at age 60 to 4.5 years at age 85 for women and from 6.5 to just over 2 years, respectively, in men. Average survival was up to 1.4 years longer among Asian populations and 1.4 years longer among people with Alzheimer’s disease compared with other types of dementia. About 10 million people worldwide receive a diagnosis of dementia every year, but survival estimates vary widely. To better understand this, researchers in the Netherlands set out to determine prognosis for people with a dementia diagnosis, both for remaining life expectancy and for time to nursing home admission. Their findings were based on 261 studies published between 1984 and 2024 (235 on survival and 79 on nursing home admission) involving more than 5 million people with dementia (average age 79, 63 per cent women). They found that average time to nursing home admission was just over 3 years, with 13 per cent of people admitted in the first year after diagnosis, increasing to a third (35 per cent) at three years and more than half (57 per cent) at five years. However, the authors noted that are observational findings. “Future studies on individualised prognosis should ideally include patients at time of diagnosis, accounting for personal factors, social factors, disease stage, and comorbidity, while assessing relevant functional outcome measures above and beyond survival alone,” they added. The authors said that to enhance future healthcare services and optimise quality of life for people with dementia and their families, it is crucial that we continue to strive for more precise, context sensitive insights. Also Read: Lancet lists 14 risk factors for dementia This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
09 January,2025 01:51 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSThe start of a new year often comes with renewed promises of better health and fitness. But instead of falling prey to fleeting fads and extreme measures, why not turn to a sustainable and balanced approach? Say goodbye to trending, new diets on the internet. Guru to stars like Kareena Kapoor Khan, celebrity nutritionist, Rujuta Diwekar, in her audiobook, ‘Don’t Lose Your Mind, Lose Your Weight’ on Audible, offers practical tips rooted in common sense, tradition, and science. Here are some takeaways from the audiobook to help you stay on track for the year ahead. 1. Ditch tea or coffee first thing in the morningStarting your day with tea or coffee on an empty stomach is a no-no. She shares, “Any stimulant like tea or coffee, which has caffeine and cigarettes jolt the system out of slumber. It increases the blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing rate and makes the body feel stressed or ‘kicked’. Sadly we mistake this for feeling awake.” She says, “Eat meal 1 within 10 minutes of waking up. And obviously you can’t start with tea, coffee or a cigarette. If you can’t bring yourself to eat a big meal, start with a fruit. Absolutely any fruit is great. Keep it fresh, not frozen. Don’t add salt, sugar, chaat masala, etc to it. And of course, don’t squeeze it into a juice." According to Rujuta, you can kickstart your metabolism with something simple yet wholesome. She says, “Numerous studies have shown how a hearty, healthy breakfast can increase our metabolic rate. Some herbal infusions won’t give you the caffeine kick but it will prolong the time between waking up and eating, which is why I prefer you stick with this rule even if you are a herbal tea drinker.” This small change will improve digestion, balance blood sugar levels, and energize you for the day ahead. 2. Eat every two hours for steady energy and improved metabolismLong gaps between meals can wreak havoc on your metabolism and energy levels. Diwekar recommends eating small, balanced meals every two hours to keep your metabolism active and cravings at bay. To understand how many meals you should have within breaks, “calculate the number of hours that you spend away from home. Divide that by 2 and carry those many meals with you,” says Rujuta. Whether it’s coconut water with malai, fresh fruits, or roasted peanuts, there are plentiful options, however, you need to plan. Rujuta says, “When you eat 6 to 7 times in the day, it doesn’t take too much time. Just a couple of minutes. The kind of small meal I am asking you to eat is a handful of peanuts, a bowl of yoghurt, a slice or wedge of cheese. These are all foods you can keep in the office fridge, or in your desk.” 3. Match your meals to your activity levelsTo maintain energy levels and optimize health, it is best to tailor eating habits to activity patterns. Rujuta suggests eating more during high-demand periods, such as after physical or mental exertion, and scaling during passive activities. “It goes without saying that you should eat more in the morning. If we don’t eat food when the body needs it, all this does is create a huge calorie and nutrient deficit. Later, when the time is wrong, that is the metabolic processes are slowing down, your body and mind will demand a lot of food to make up for the deficit. Time is very important,” says Rujuta, in her audiobook. She asserts, “Cheese, pasta, paratha, peanuts, paneer, banana, mango, potato, rice, etc are misunderstood only because you have experienced them at the wrong time in your day. None of these foods are fattening. They are just dense in energy (calories) or fat. In fact, I will go to the extent of saying that no food is fattening. You have to just be smart enough to choose the right time to eat it. ” Pay attention to portion sizes and the timing of heavier meals. By respecting your body’s rhythms and syncing meals with activity levels, you can boost vitality and prevent overeating. 4. Wrap up dinner two hours before bedtimeEating late or heavy dinners can disrupt digestion and lead to weight gain. Rujuta advises having your final meal at least two hours before bedtime. She says, "Rethink ‘dinner’. Have a healthy and nutritious meal between 6 to 7 pm; and then go for a token dinner later, ideally no later than 9 pm." Some meal suggestion options that Rujuta shares for the early dinner or meal include Roti rolls, Grilled sandwiches, Sprouts with dahi, Muesli with milk or curd or other whole grains like ragi, barley, mixed grains. Sharing an important note for those not going in for a token dinner, she alerts, “If you are eating your early dinner and you aren’t eating anything afterwards (ie, not doing the token dinner), remember only 2 things and nothing more. Your meal should be a combination of low GI (glycemic index) carbs, fats and protein.” This way it prevents you from overeating at night and ensures your body gets adequate time to process food before you sleep. By applying these principles, you can redefine your relationship with food and fitness. As Rujuta aptly explains, weight loss should never be the goal; a healthier, happier you is what truly matters! So, as you step into this new year, embrace her timeless wisdom and watch the transformation unfold.
08 January,2025 06:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWhile coffee offers several health benefits, the best time to drink the hot beverage is morning hours, claims a study on Wednesday. The research, published in the European Heart Journal, showed that people who drink coffee in the morning have a lower risk of dying from heart disease. They also have a lower overall mortality risk compared to people who drink coffee all day long. Researchers from Tulane University in the US showed morning coffee drinkers were 16 per cent less likely to die of any cause and 31 per cent less likely to die of cardiovascular disease. However, no reduction in risk was found for people who drink coffee all day, compared to non-coffee drinkers. “This is the first study testing coffee drinking timing patterns and health outcomes. Our findings indicate that it’s not just whether you drink coffee or how much you drink, but the time of day when you drink coffee, that’s important,” said Dr Lu Qi, Professor at Tulane. In the study, researchers analysed data on 40,725 adults between 1999 and 2018. As part of the study, participants were asked about all the food and drink they consumed on at least one day, including whether they drank coffee, how much, and when. It also included a sub-group of 1,463 people who were asked to complete a detailed food and drink diary for a full week. The team linked the information with records of deaths and causes of death for nine to 10 years. More than one in three people in the study were morning coffee drinkers (they primarily drank coffee before midday), and less than one in four drank coffee throughout the day (morning, afternoon, and evening). These were compared with 48 per cent non coffee drinkers. Morning coffee drinkers benefitted from the lower risks whether they were moderate drinkers (two to three cups) or heavy drinkers (more than three cups). Light morning drinkers (one cup or less) benefitted from a smaller decrease in risk, the researchers said. However, the study doesn’t give the mechanism behind how drinking coffee in the morning reduces the risk of death from cardiovascular disease. “A possible explanation is that consuming coffee in the afternoon or evening may disrupt circadian rhythms and levels of hormones such as melatonin. This, in turn, leads to changes in cardiovascular risk factors such as inflammation and blood pressure,” Qi said, calling for further studies to validate the findings. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
08 January,2025 03:49 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSBe it office leasing or residential demand, Mumbai witnessed historic high among all metros last year, driven by sustained demand for premium housing and transformative infrastructure developments, a report showed on Tuesday. The financial capital recorded a historic high in office transaction volumes in 2024, reaching 10.4 million square feet, marking a 40 per cent annual increase from 7.4 million square feet in 2023, according to the report by Knight Frank India. In the second half of 2024, Mumbai saw office space transactions totalling around 4.6 million square feet, reflecting a 9 per cent growth. India-facing business accounted for most transactions in Mumbai, contributing around 77 per cent to the overall share in 2024.In 2024, Mumbai saw the addition of 5.8 million square feet of new office supply, reflecting an 89 per cent year-on-year growth compared to 2023. According to Viral Desai from Knight Frank India, occupier sentiment remained strong, fuelled by a growing economic environment, rising physical occupancy, and significant infrastructure advancements. “The introduction of key metro lines, such as the BKC metro, has notably enhanced accessibility, making Mumbai’s office market increasingly attractive to occupiers. The city’s office leasing market is set to continue its upward momentum in 2025, driven by varied occupier demand, infrastructure-led development, and developer confidence in the city’s long-term prospects,” Desai mentioned. The city also remained the largest residential market in the country, recording sale of 96,187 primary residential units in 2024, marking a 13-year high with an 11 per cent growth. In H2 2024 alone, 48,928 units were sold, reflecting a 6 per cent YoY increase. In 2024, the average residential prices rose by 5 per cent YoY over 2023. The sustained demand of buyers supported this price growth and kept the momentum ongoing. Complemented by transformative infrastructure projects like the Mumbai Coastal Road, Metro Line 3, and the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), the city continues to strengthen its position as the nation’s premier real estate market, said the report. Gulam Zia from Knight Frank India said that Mumbai’s residential market continues its steady growth, driven by sustained demand for premium housing and transformative infrastructure developments and key infrastructure projects like the Mumbai Coastal Road and Metro Lines have greatly improved connectivity, fuelling demand in suburban areas. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
07 January,2025 03:16 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSThere is nothing to worry about the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), said the World Health Organisation's former chief scientist, Dr Soumya Swaminathan on Monday, even as two more cases have been detected in the country, taking the tally to 5. She noted that the virus is not new and causes only mild infections. "#HMPvirus is nothing to panic about. It’s a known virus that causes respiratory infections, mostly mild," Swaminathan said in a post on social media platform X. Warning people to not jump at the detection of every pathogen, she listed out precautionary measures like washing hands. "Rather than jump at detection of every pathogen, we should all take normal precautions when we have a cold: wear a mask, wash hands, avoid crowds, consult a doctor in case of severe symptoms," the noted scientist said. She noted that as per ICMR, HMPV accounts for about 3 per cent of respiratory pathogens detected in the laboratory network, testing influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) cases. Influenza A & B, SARSCoV2 and RSV are other circulating viruses, she said, adding "no deaths reported in India so far". The expert's assurance comes even as five children tested positive for the virus in Karnataka (2), Gujarat (1), and Tamil Nadu (2) on Monday. All the affected children are recovering well, while one has been discharged, the health authorities said. Meanwhile, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda, addressing the media, said that the government is "closely monitoring the situation in China as well as in the neighbouring countries". He assured that "there is no reason to worry". HMPV was first discovered in 2001 and is part of the Pneumoviridae family along with the RSV. The symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
07 January,2025 10:15 AM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentThe Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus and most of the Indian population are immune to it, said health experts on Monday, even as the number of reported cases climbed to three in the country. On Monday, health officials in the country reported three cases of HMPV -- babies aged three- and eight-month-old from Bengaluru (Karnataka) and a two-year-old child in Gujarat’s Ahmedabad. “Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus. It has been part of the circulating flu virus in India for long. Hence, the majority of the Indian population has developed immunity against it,” Dr. Harshal R Salve, Additional Professor, Centre for Community Medicine at AIIMS, New Delhi, told IANS. He added that the “chances of a severe disease are very rare”. HMPV was first discovered in 2001 and is part of the Pneumoviridae family along with the Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. “Like for any other flu viruses, elderly people, children and people with comorbidities must take care. There is no need to create panic, and one should stop rumour-mongering in the public,” Salve said. Also Read: HMPV outbreak: Has India panicked more than China? The two cases from Karnataka were detected via routine surveillance by ICMR in a 3-month-old girl and an 8-month-old boy. Both had a history of bronchopneumonia -- a form of pneumonia, a lung infection, and were admitted to a private hospital. Bronchopneumonia affects both the alveoli in the lungs and the bronchi. The Health Ministry informed that while the baby girl “has been discharged”, the baby boy “is now recovering” In the third case, the child, from Rajasthan, was admitted to a private hospital in Chandkheda’s area of Ahmedabad, after showing symptoms of cold and cough. The child is stable now, reports quoted civic officials as saying. “HMPV is not a new virus. It commonly causes colds among children and also some adults. For self-limiting colds, we don’t do expensive tests to diagnose which specific virus it is due to. Therefore, the finding of this virus upon testing is not anything unusual or worrisome,” Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, Chairman of the Kerala State IMA Research Cell, told IANS. “All over the world, HMPV is a well-known cause of common cold,” he added. HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with HMPV have been reported in various countries, particularly in China. “Common cold is more common in winter, therefore it is being reported from China at this time. People should not get the impression that a new virus from China has now reached Bangalore,” Jayadevan told IANS. Notably, the three cases of HMPV have no travel history. Thus, it currently remains unknown whether the cases are related to the outbreak seen in China. “They (infected children) have not traveled to China, Malaysia, or any other country. The outbreak in China is linked to a new variant of HMPV. We do not yet have full details, and the government is still gathering information,” said Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, while speaking to the media. “HMPV isn’t new. What we don’t know is whether the strain is novel and has a virulence that’s different from what we’ve experienced in the past. Unless one knows that it is a novel strain, cases have been detected all the time! Hopefully, whole genome sequencing and clinical information will clarify soon,” said Lancelot Pinto, an Indian pulmonologist and epidemiologist, in a post on social media platform X. Meanwhile, the government has issued precautionary measures such as covering mouth and nose with handkerchiefs or tissue paper while coughing, or sneezing; washing hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer; avoiding crowded places; staying away from public places while having fever, cough, or sneezing. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
06 January,2025 04:28 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSA team of doctors in Kolkata have successfully treated a rare instance of bilateral Herpes Zoster in a 74-year-old woman, Nanda Ghosh. This is only the fourth documented case of bilateral Herpes Zoster in the country involving a patient who is not immunocompromised. She was brought to Manipal Hospitals, Broadway with complaints like fever, high-grade headache, nasal discharge, congestion, and coughing, Upon examination, vesiculopapular rashes (small bumps or fluid-filled blisters) among other symptoms suggested a severe and rare presentation of the Herpes virus. The woman was suffering from days of fever, unceasing headache, and pain so inexplicable it just won't subside. Despite a growing sense that something is seriously wrong, the underlying cause remained unknown. Such was the condition of this elderly patient till her son brought her to the hospital where finally her condition found a diagnosis and treatment. Herpes Zoster, commonly known as shingles can cause painful rashes and typically forms along a single nerve root (dermatome) on one side of the body, often affecting areas like the chest, abdomen, or face. However, in this case, it manifested bilaterally, which is extremely rare. The lesions formed on both sides of the face, including around the forehead, cheeks, and eyes, which is highly unusual in someone in relatively healthy condition. A multidisciplinary team led by Dr Partha Sarathi Bhattacharjee, consultant - internal medicine, at the hospital confirmed the diagnosis through an extensive investigation. The patient was treated with antiviral medication (Zovirax) to target the Herpes virus and antibiotics (Meropenem) to manage secondary bacterial infections. Dermatologists and ophthalmologists were consulted to ensure comprehensive care. Dr Bhattacharjee explained, “This case was a medical rarity, especially in a healthy elderly individual without immunosuppression. Such cases challenge conventional medical understanding and require advanced diagnostic expertise. If left untreated, Herpes Zoster can lead to severe complications such as blindness, hearing loss, and nerve damage. Getting the shingles vaccine can prevent herpes outbreaks. The shingles vaccine is administered in a 2-dose series, with the second dose given 2 to 6 months after the first for optimal effectiveness. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential in managing the condition and preventing complications. While this vaccine is recommended for all ages, this is particularly beneficial for the elderly or those at higher risk.” Nanda’s son shared his emotional journey, stating, “Watching my mother suffer without knowing what was wrong was heart-wrenching. This is the fourth time we have relied on Manipal Hospitals, Broadway, and every time, they have exceeded our expectations. My mother's condition was critical and very unusual, but the doctors here handled it with extraordinary care and expertise. Thanks to their efforts, my mother is now back home with her family. We are deeply thankful.” In a week, the patient showed great improvement under the care of the hospital. Her fever abated, and rashes resolved without secondary infection; her general condition stabilised. The patient was discharged in ten days with overall good health and immense gratitude regarding the compassionate and highly professional treatment.
06 January,2025 03:07 PM IST | Kolkata | mid-day online correspondentMumbai doctors have successfully treated a rare and life-threatening pancreatic condition in a 13-year-old girl from Sangli in Maharashtra. The patient was detected with pseudoaneurysm in the gastroduodenal artery in the pseudocyst of the pancreas along with pancreatitis which was successfully managed by a minimally invasive procedure guided by angiography, performed by Dr Rahul Sheth, an interventional radiologist. This procedure not only alleviated her pain but also offered a lasting solution to her complex condition. The team of experts at Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre was led by Dr Rajeev Redkar, paediatric surgeon along with Dr Aniruddha Phadke, gastroenterologist with paediatricians Dr Deepak Ugra and Dr Minhaj Sheikh, and Dr Sheth. The patient, Aditi Kamble, experienced symptoms such as acute abdominal pain one week ago. The young girl, who has a family history of pancreatic disease, was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis two years ago. Her family sought the advice of a gastroenterologist but her condition didn’t improve. She continued to have intermittent pain in her abdomen. Last week, she experienced severe abdominal pain accompanied by vomiting which interfered with her daily routine. She visited another hospital in Mumbai where her condition could not be managed. After that, the patient was admitted to Lilavati Hospital for this life-saving intervention. Dr Redkar said, “The patient was in distress due to unbearable abdominal pain on arrival in the hospital. Her abdomen CT scan revealed a pseudocyst (a fluid-filled mass in the pancreas) and a leaking pseudo-aneurysm of the gastro-duodenal artery within the pseudocyst, a rare and critical condition, especially in children. The patient suffered from this condition due to genetic factors as her father also struggled with pancreatic disease. After the pancreatitis resolved, she was detected with pseudocyst of the pancreas and pancreatitis (swelling and inflammation of the pancreas). The incidence of the leaking pseudoaneurysm in a pseudocyst of the pancreas is a very rare problem probably found in 1 in 10, 00,000 children with pancreatitis. The girl also had a dilated pancreatic duct and stones within her pancreas which further compromised the functioning of the pancreatic gland. The compromised pancreatic function caused stunted growth and acute on chronic abdominal pain.” He added, “In collaboration with interventional radiologists, advanced angiographic techniques were utilised to approach and coil the aneurysm, successfully stopping the active bleeding and obliterating the aneurysm. This uneventful procedure called angiographic embolisation of the gastroduodenal artery (GDA) aneurysm lasted for one hour. The patient was discharged after one week in a stable condition. Her pain is resolved and follow-up sonography has shown no recurrence. Not treating her at the right time could have raised the risk of complications like bleeding inside the pseudo pancreatic cyst. This case highlights Lilavati Hospital’s commitment to delivering life-saving care for the patients.” “We are deeply thankful to Dr Rajeev Redkar and his team for their exceptional care and expertise. They not only saved my daughter’s life but also gave us hope by managing her condition. She is excited to return to school and spend time with her friends,” said the patient’s mother expressing his gratitude for the timely intervention. "Our team at Lilavati Hospital is committed to providing the highest level of care, and the successful treatment of this young patient is a testimony to unmatched care and dedication. With the help of the latest technology and expertise, together we tackle even the rarest and most complex conditions. This case highlights the power of teamwork, advanced medical care, and our relentless focus on improving patient outcomes. We're proud to have saved this child's life and offer a brighter future for her," concluded Dr Niraj Uttamani, chief operating officer at the Bandra hospital.
06 January,2025 02:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
