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Mumbai doctors highlight simple steps to prevent hepatitis

As per the World Health Organization data (2022), approximately 1.3 million people die each year from chronic viral hepatitis (B and C). The low diagnosis rate combined with limited treatment coverage poses a significant challenge.  Every year, World Hepatitis Day is observed on July 28, and is a crucial reminder to take proactive steps against hepatitis, a silent threat that can lead to severe health complications.  Dr Harish K C, consultant medical gastroenterology, Manipal Hospital Millers Road, Bengaluru, and Dr Alisha Chaubal, principal consultant, hepatology, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai, delve into expert-backed strategies to prevent hepatitis.  From ensuring safe drinking water and practicing everyday hygiene to understanding crucial vaccines and the importance of early testing, these measures can significantly reduce your risk. Learn how one can safeguard your liver and contribute to a healthier future, starting today. Safeguarding against Hepatitis A and E: Focus on food and waterHepatitis A and E are frequently linked to contaminated food and water, posing a significant risk, especially during India's monsoon season when water pollution is heightened.Dr. Harish, emphasises, "To keep safe, people should only consume cooked water or use RO/UV-filtered water. Avoid drinking tap water and roadside beverages." He further advises sticking to freshly cooked hot food and avoiding raw salads, street food, and cut fruits. "Wash all fruits and vegetables well in clean water or soak them in a moderate potassium permanganate solution," he recommends.  He also suggests feeding fruits yourself rather than buying pre-cut ones and avoiding seafood during the monsoon season due to increased pollution risks. Proper water storage in fresh, sealed vessels that can be accessed without direct hand contact is another key precaution. "These minor but important precautions can significantly reduce the risk of hepatitis during this high-risk season," Dr Harish notes.Everyday hygiene: Beyond handwashingWhile handwashing is fundamental, a broader approach to hygiene is vital in preventing all types of hepatitis.According to Dr Harish, it is important to follow these critical everyday hygiene practices. He explains, "Maintaining proper food hygiene, drinking safe and filtered water, keeping fingernails clean and short, regularly cleaning kitchen and bathroom surfaces, and avoiding the sharing of personal items like razors, toothbrushes, and needles." He highlights that Hepatitis A and E are primarily spread through contaminated food or water, making thorough washing of fruits and vegetables and practicing food safety essential. Hepatitis B and C, on the other hand, are transmitted through blood and bodily fluids, necessitating the use of sterile equipment for tattoos or piercings and ensuring proper sterilization in medical or dental settings. "It is also important to wash hands not just after using the toilet, but before preparing or serving food," he adds.Dr Harish also debunks common misconceptions. He explains, "A common misconception is that hand sanitisers are enough for hygiene, but while useful, they do not remove dirt or faecal matter effectively." Another widespread myth he addresses is that hepatitis is solely caused by poor sanitation or is only a risk for drug users, when in fact, even clean-looking environments can harbour contaminated food or water, and visits to salons or clinics with inadequate sterilization can pose risks. He concludes, “Preventing hepatitis requires consistent and thorough hygiene practices, not just occasional caution."The power of vaccination: Hepatitis BVaccination plays a pivotal role in preventing hepatitis, particularly Hepatitis B.  "To prevent mother-to-child transmission, the Hepatitis B immunization schedule in India begins with a birth dose, which is ideally administered within 24 hours of delivery," explains Dr Harish. This is followed by three additional doses at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age, with a potential booster later in life depending on individual health status. Beyond newborns, Dr Harish emphasises, “High-risk populations should be vaccinated include healthcare professionals, laboratory personnel, persons with chronic liver disease, dialysis users, and those who live with someone who has hepatitis B." He assures, “Adults who missed childhood vaccination can still follow the three-dose schedule, stressing that the vaccine is safe and effective, and reduces the risk of long-term liver issues."Recognising early symptoms and the importance of testingEarly detection of hepatitis is crucial for effective management and preventing progression.He further highlights, "Early symptoms of hepatitis are often mild and can be mistaken for those of other infections. These subtle signs include dark urine, a low-grade fever, nausea, fatigue, and appetite loss. Jaundice, or yellowing of the eyes or skin, can occur gradually or quickly in certain people, and that clay-coloured stools and abdominal pain could also be warning signs.” The health expert urges immediate medical attention if any of these symptoms appear, especially after recent travel, consumption of potentially contaminated food or water, or contact with an infected person. He strongly advises against waiting for jaundice, “By then, liver damage may have progressed. With early diagnostics, issues can be avoided and future spread can be limited," he adds.Protecting against Hepatitis D (HDV) for HBV carriersIndividuals living with chronic Hepatitis B (HBV) face increased health risks if exposed to Hepatitis D (HDV), a virus dependent on HBV for its replication. As there is no vaccine for HDV, preventing exposure remains the sole protective strategy for those already infected with HBV.On the other hand, Dr Chaubal, highlights key preventive measures for HBV carriers:1. Consistent antiviral therapy: Maintaining HBV viral suppression through regular antiviral treatment significantly reduces vulnerability to HDV infection and limits the severity of potential complications.2. Avoiding shared items: She advises against sharing personal items like razors, toothbrushes, and needles, which can transmit viruses through blood contamination.3. Practicing safe sex: Consistent use of condoms reduces the risk of HDV transmission through sexual activity.4. Blood screening: Ensuring thorough screening of blood products before transfusion protects against inadvertent HDV exposure.5. Regular monitoring: Frequent monitoring of HBV viral load helps in early detection of superinfection, allowing timely interventions.The benefits of early hepatitis testingEarly detection of hepatitis profoundly impacts prognosis and disease progression. Since Hepatitis B or C often remain asymptomatic in early stages, proactive testing is critical.Dr Chaubal outlines the benefits of early testing: 1. Prompt treatment initiation: Early antiviral therapy can halt or slow down the progression of liver damage, preventing fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).2. Identification of silent carriers: Early screening identifies individuals who unknowingly carry the virus, enabling interventions to prevent further spread.3. Ongoing liver monitoring: Regular liver function tests (LFTs), elastography, and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) tests facilitate ongoing assessment of liver health.In India, several tests are readily accessible:1. HBsAg test: Detects Hepatitis B surface antigen, serving as a primary screening tool.2. Anti-HCV antibody and HCV RNA testing: Initial antibody tests followed by RNA testing confirm Hepatitis C virus presence.3. HDV antibody testing: Specifically recommended for individuals already infected with HBV, though availability may be limited to select specialised centres.4. Rapid diagnostic kits: Provided through programs like the National Health Mission (NHM) and the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program (NVHCP), as well as private laboratories.Lifestyle choices for liver healthBeyond direct infection prevention, lifestyle choices significantly influence liver health and resilience. Adopting specific modifications can substantially benefit individuals at risk or already diagnosed with hepatitis.Dr Chaubal recommends:1. Alcohol avoidance: Abstaining from alcohol is crucial, as alcohol significantly accelerates liver damage in hepatitis cases.2. Healthy weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight prevents the onset of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which complicates hepatitis management.3. Balanced, nutritious diet: Consuming a diet rich in antioxidants (found in leafy greens, berries), lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids supports liver function and overall health.4. Regular physical activity: Routine exercise enhances insulin sensitivity and assists in reducing liver fat, improving metabolic function.5. Medication Vigilance: Avoiding unnecessary medications, particularly hepatotoxic drugs and supplements, minimises liver strain.6. Routine Health Check-ups: Regular assessments of liver health can detect and manage hepatitis progression early.Immediate action after potential exposureImmediate action following potential hepatitis exposure can effectively prevent infection or reduce severity. Promptness is key.Dr Chaubal provides guidance:1. For HBV exposure: Administer Hepatitis B Immunoglobulin (HBIG) within 24 to 72 hours, followed immediately by the HBV vaccination series. If previously vaccinated, checking anti-HBs antibody levels is crucial, and revaccination may be needed based on results.2. For HCV exposure: While no immediate prophylaxis exists for Hepatitis C, baseline testing followed by regular follow-up assessments is essential. Early initiation of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy upon acute infection detection can reduce chronicity risk3. For HDV exposure: Since HDV depends on HBV infection, timely HBV vaccination provides effective protection against HDV in uninfected individuals.For all potential hepatitis exposures, including needlestick injuries, unprotected sexual contact, or mucosal contact with blood, Dr Chaubal stresses these essential steps, "Immediate thorough washing of the exposed site, immediate reporting and documentation of the incident, and comprehensive serological testing with routine follow-up."Prompt and informed action can drastically reduce hepatitis infection risks and its long-term health consequences. By taking these simple steps, you can actively protect your liver and contribute to a healthier future.

28 July,2025 08:15 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai Agarwal
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Teen girl facing menstrual issues and PCOS for three years finally finds relief

A 17-year-old girl who had been silently battling painful menstrual problems, PCOS, and facial acne for three years has finally found relief and renewed hope in life after treatment at a hospital in Navi Mumbai. Sadhvi, a resident of Navi Mumbai, endured distressing monthly cycles, PCOS, and facial acne, where physical pain was accompanied by deep emotional strain. She also struggled with facial acne, and no weight loss made daily life more difficult. She visited multiple hospitals and doctors, but most treatments offered only short-term relief. Different medications and diagnoses left her confused and frustrated, and the painful and continuous monthly cycles drained her energy and confidence. Hence, she was unable to do her daily activities with ease and struggled each day. When hope was fading, she turned to get help from Dr Pradeep Mahajan in search of a different path to healing. Dr Mahajan, who is a regenerative medicine researcher and founder of StemRx Hospital & Research Centre, put the patient under a customised regenerative therapy that addressed not only the symptoms but also the root causes of her health challenges. Today, her life has taken a positive turn, with improved physical health and emotional well-being. Dr Mahajan, said, “Women’s health issues, especially those related to menstruation and PCOS, are often misunderstood or not treated at their core. The regenerative approach goes beyond symptom management. A multi-specialty evaluation looked into her hormonal imbalance, nutritional levels, cardiovascular health, and emotional stress. Instead of a quick fix, the team focused on identifying the root causes behind her persistent symptoms. We work at the cellular level to repair and restore. In her case, stem cell therapy helped control inflammation, improved hormonal balance, and supported healing in the reproductive system. The idea is to give the body the tools it needs to recover from within. When paired with emotional support and proper nutrition, the outcome can be life-changing.” He added, “What made her case special was how determined she was to understand her health and take part in the recovery process. After a detailed assessment, a cell-based therapy was advised, with full transparency and discussion with her. The regenerative treatment included stem cells and MDI treatment to heal damaged tissues and support her body’s recovery and regain energy. Our mission is to blend regenerative medicine with compassionate care to restore health, hope, and quality of life, especially for women facing gynecological and chronic health challenges. Today, she feels a renewed sense of peace and confidence. Her menstrual cycles are back to normal, her energy levels have improved, and she has lost weight drastically. Most importantly, she feels emotionally strong and supported.” “There were days I couldn’t get out of bed without pain due to menses. Every month, I braced myself for the discomfort that never seemed to end. I was constantly tired, mentally drained, and the mood swings only made things worse. It felt like I was silently suffering, and no one understood what I was going through. Coming to the hospital changed that. For the first time, I felt truly heard, cared for, and supported. I thank Dr Mahajan and his team for giving me a second lease of life,” concluded Sadhvi.

28 July,2025 06:56 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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Hepatitis Day: Here's what you need to know about the silent liver infection

Hepatitis is a condition where the liver becomes inflamed due to infection, toxins, or autoimmune disorders. The most common cause is a viral infection, especially Hepatitis A, B, C, D, or E. The liver plays a pivotal role in digestion, detoxification, and energy storage, so any damage to it can take a toll on the entire body. Dr Tanish Mandal, consultant pathologist and zonal technical chief, Apollo Diagnostics in Delhi, explains, “Hepatitis tends to spread via contaminated food or water (Hepatitis A and E), contact with infected blood, unprotected sex, or from an infected mother to child (Hepatitis B and C). It may also be seen because of higher alcohol intake, certain medications, or underlying autoimmune diseases."Every year, World Hepatitis Day is observed on July 28 to raise awareness about a group of diseases that affect the liver and can cause severe damage. Hepatitis, if left untreated, can damage the liver and that is why it is necessary to manage it without any further delay. Knowing the causes, symptoms, and diagnosis is essential for timely intervention. Also Read: Mother with uterine fibroid gives birth to child in complex delivery When to suspect Hepatitis?Many cases of Hepatitis will show no symptoms in the beginning, which is why it’s called a “silent” disease. However, Dr Mandal highlights the signs and symptoms like yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice); fatigue or weakness; dark-coloured urine; pale or clay-coloured stools; abdominal pain, especially in the upper right side; Loss of appetite; nausea or vomiting, and fever or joint pain (in some cases) In case a person witnesses any symptoms, then it will be the need of the hour to go for timely testing. It is necessary to get the tests done as recommended by the doctor. So, doctors advise doing the blood tests to check liver function and to identify the type of hepatitis virus present. Dr Mandal sheds light on the tests that can be done:1. Liver Function Test (LFT): Will help to check how well the liver is working. Recommended every 6 months, along with a routine health check, to understand the liver health status.2. Hepatitis Panel:  This can be done to detect antibodies or antigens for Hepatitis A, B, and C. For example, HBsAg should be used for checking for active Hepatitis B infection, and Anti-HCV will be carried out to detect Hepatitis C infection.3. For assessing liver damage or other pathologies like autoimmune conditions or tumours, liver biopsy may be needed. “Most hepatitis-related tests are blood tests performed in the laboratory. A small sample of blood is drawn from a vein and sent for analysis. Reports can be delivered within a day, usually. The treatment should be immediately initiated after the diagnosis is confirmed. Hepatitis can become dangerous if ignored. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent liver damage and improve the quality of life. Don’t ignore the warning signs, get tested, stay informed, and protect your liver,” said Dr Mandal. Also Read: Why your mind deserves daily self-care “Hepatitis often shows no early signs; however, beware of fatigue, jaundice, nausea, and abdominal pain. If left untreated, hepatitis can lead to concerning liver damage, including cirrhosis or liver cancer. Treatment depends on the type of hepatitis detected in the patient. Some need medications, while others require supportive care such as rest, nutrition, hydration, and no alcohol or smoking.  Remember that timely vaccination, safe hygiene, and regular screening can prevent the hepatitis infection, “ said Dr Ameet Mandot, director - Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplant Medicine, Gleneagles Hospitals at Parel in Mumbai.

28 July,2025 06:32 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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Enhancing screening, vaccination key to fight silent virus hepatitis B: Experts

Hepatitis B is a stealthy and silent virus; enhancing screening and vaccination is very important to fight it, said experts on World Hepatitis Day on Monday. World Hepatitis Day is observed every year on July 28 to raise awareness about hepatitis and strengthen efforts to prevent and manage it. The theme this year is ‘Hepatitis: Let's Break It Down’. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) Global hepatitis report 2022, India had 29.8 million hepatitis B cases which is equivalent to 11.7 per cent of the total global hepatitis B cases. Globally, 254 million people were living with hepatitis B in 2022. “Hepatitis B is a stealthy, silent virus. It only activates at a later age -- 40, 50, or 60 years -- and remains silent until one day you hear someone has liver cancer,” said Dr. (Prof.) S K Sarin, Senior Professor, Department of Hepatology and Director, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, at an event held in the national capital. Hepatitis B is transmitted from mother to baby. “Today, 95 per cent of hepatitis B is mother-to-baby transmission. Only 15 per cent of people are aware they have hepatitis B, and only 3 per cent of them are treated. This condition is invisible. Of the 3 crore hepatitis B cases in India, we are only treating maybe a few lakhs,” the expert said. He stressed the need for enhancing screening and vaccination against hepatitis B in the country. “If somebody has hepatitis B, we need to screen the whole family. The risk of having a second family member test positive is five times higher. So, illness to wellness should start from those who are not unwell today but can become unwell. The family index person and all family members must be screened and vaccinated -- it will protect us,” said Sarin, a Padma Bhushan awardee. Rajesh Bhushan, Former Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, shared that to boost hepatitis control and to reduce the burden of hepatitis B by 2030, the government in 2007 included the hepatitis B vaccine under the Universal Immunisation Programme. “The third dose coverage of hepatitis B now exceeds 93 per cent as per National Family Health Survey 5 and HMIS 2023-24,” he said. In addition, the government also launched the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme (NVHCP) in 2018 under the National Health Mission. “The initiative has made free testing and treatment for hepatitis B and C available in all states and Union Territories for which adequate funds are given to the state government,” said Bhushan at the event organised by Illness to Wellness Foundation. 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

28 July,2025 04:18 PM IST | Mumbai | IANS
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World Hepatitis Day | India taking steps to fight the health challenge: JP Nadda

India is taking strong steps to fight hepatitis, a global public health concern, said Union Health Minister JP Nadda on World Hepatitis Day on Monday. World Hepatitis Day is observed every year on July 28 to raise awareness about viral hepatitis and strengthen efforts to prevent and manage it. Viral hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that causes severe liver disease and liver cancer. “World Hepatitis Day provides a platform to raise awareness among people about hepatitis and its preventive measures. Under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi, India is taking strong steps through the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme to fight this health challenge and protect lives,” Nadda shared in a post on the social media platform X. World Hepatitis Day provides a platform to raise awareness among people about hepatitis and its preventive measures.Under the leadership of Hon. PM Shri @narendramodi ji, India is taking strong steps through the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program to fight this health… pic.twitter.com/8abcnBcWzv — Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) July 28, 2025 “This year’s theme, ‘Hepatitis: Let's Break It Down’, underscores the urgent need to eliminate barriers in society that hinder progress towards the elimination of hepatitis,” he added. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), India carries a significant burden of viral hepatitis, ranking second globally for hepatitis B and C cases, after China. In 2022, India registered 2.98 crore hepatitis B cases and 55 lakh hepatitis C cases. The WHO reports that India accounted for 11.6 per cent of the global hepatitis burden in 2022. Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav called for renewing “commitment to spreading awareness about hepatitis and empowering people with knowledge to prevent it”. “India is advancing steadily through the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme, ensuring timely detection, treatment, and protection for all,” he added. Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that is caused by a variety of infectious viruses and non-infectious agents, leading to a range of health problems, including severe liver damage and cancer, some of which can be fatal. There are 5 main strains of the hepatitis virus, referred to as types A, B, C, D, and E. While they can all cause liver disease, they differ in important ways, including modes of transmission, severity of the illness, geographical distribution, and prevention methods. World Hepatitis Day also calls for urgent action to dismantle the financial, social, and systemic barriers -- including stigma -- that hinder hepatitis elimination and liver cancer prevention. Addressing the low coverage of testing and treatment is crucial to achieve the global goal of eliminating hepatitis by 2030. 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

28 July,2025 04:00 PM IST | Mumbai | IANS
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Dementia may take 3.5 years to be diagnosed after symptoms begin: Study

People with dementia are diagnosed an average of 3.5 years after symptoms are first noticed, according to a new study. Early signs of dementia may include memory loss, difficulty finding words, confusion, and changes in mood and behaviour. The study, published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, showed that younger age at onset and having frontotemporal dementia were both linked to a longer time to diagnosis. For those with early-onset dementia, the diagnosis can take 4.1 years, with some groups more likely to experience longer delays. "Timely diagnosis of dementia remains a major global challenge, shaped by a complex set of factors, and specific health care strategies are urgently needed to improve it. Timely diagnosis can improve access to treatments and, for some people, prolong the time living with mild dementia before symptoms worsen,” said lead author Dr. Vasiliki Orgeta, from the Division of Psychiatry at the University College London (UCL). For the study, UCL researchers reviewed data from 13 previously published studies that took place in Europe, the US, Australia, and China, reporting data on 30,257 participants. Dementia is a growing public health concern, affecting over 57 million people globally. Studies estimate that only 50-65 per cent of cases are ever diagnosed in high-income countries, with many countries having even lower diagnostic rates. Timely diagnosis of dementia remains elusive, and specific healthcare strategies are urgently needed to improve it. Dr. Phuong Leung, from UCL's Division of Psychiatry, pointed out that "symptoms of dementia are often mistaken for normal ageing, while fear, stigma, and low public awareness can discourage people from seeking help." Orgeta urged the need for public awareness campaigns to help improve understanding of early symptoms and reduce stigma, encouraging people to seek help sooner. “Clinician training is critical to improve early recognition and referral, along with access to early intervention and individualised support so that people with dementia and their families can get the help they need," the expert said. 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

28 July,2025 12:12 PM IST | Mumbai | IANS
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Alcohol products must have warning labels like tobacco: AIIMS researchers

Researchers at AIIMS have called for strong, evidence-based warning labels on alcohol products to prevent avoidable cancers, building on India's success with tobacco warnings. In an opinion piece titled "Expanding behavioural interventions through cancer warning labels in India: from cigarette packs to alcohol bottles" published in Frontiers in Public Health on July 24, the doctors have highlighted that alcohol, like tobacco, is a proven carcinogen, yet awareness remains low. The opinion piece by oncologists Dr Abhishek Shankar, Dr Vaibhav Sahni and Dr Deepak Saini from the Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr BR Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital, AIIMS, Delhi stated that adolescence forms a crucial period for the initiation and intensification of substance use behaviour, including alcohol. Behavioural interventions instituted by means of alcohol warning labels may prove to be effective in affecting positive changes in the consumption habits of individuals belonging to this age group, particularly in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs), where it is all the more important for certain sections of society to be educated and sensitised towards the consequences of substance use, the researchers said. They stated that cancer cases in India have seen a steep rise, with data from the 2012 to 2022 period suggesting a 36 per cent increase in incidence (1.01 million-?1.38 million). GLOBOCAN 2022 data saw about 1.41 million new cancer cases in India with a five-year prevalence at around 3.25 million and a total cancer mortality at 916,827. Alcohol attributable a fraction for cancer and age-standardised rate per 100,000 in India are 4.7 per cent and 4.8 per cent, respectively, according to the GLOBOCAN 2020 data. Data from 2016 suggested that 6.6 per cent of Disease Adjusted Life Years in India were attributable to alcohol consumption which followed that of tobacco at 10.9 per cent, the researchers said. The researchers also mentioned about the advisory brought out by the US surgeon general in January 2025 regarding the consumption of alcohol and the risk of cancer, which stated that alcohol consumption demonstrably elevates the risk for developing at a minimum, seven types of cancer (colon/rectum, liver, breast, esophagus, larynx, pharynx and oral cavity). The advisory also mentioned the mechanistic links between alcohol consumption and the risk of developing cancer along with the fact that this effect is observable regardless of gender. Even before the release of this advisory, alcohol-attributable cancers have been recognised to contribute significantly to the global burden of disease, the researchers said. Cancer warning labels on alcohol containers have been observed to be of benefit in reducing alcohol consumption and lowering the perception of consumption, they said. The Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) in 2016-17 noted an increase by 16 per cent for health warnings on cigarette packs, with pictorial health warnings demonstrating a 50 per cent elevated impact on the intention to quit smoking cigarettes. Warnings can be differentiated based on the type of messaging involved into loss-framed and gain-framed which have an emphasis on associated risks/harms and the benefits of quitting, respectively, the researchers explained. There is evidence in literature to suggest that gain-framed messaging possesses an advantage over loss-framed warnings but the research on such aspects has mainly focused on loss-framed warnings in the case of cigarette smoking. It is also suggested that a combination of messaging can help inform behaviour change in a more effective manner which is based off the concept of the role individual beliefs play in determining outcomes, they said. India being an LMIC, this trend indicates the effect of cancer warning labels in modifying the behaviour of a significant number of people consuming such products, the researchers highlighted. "The LMICs may look into expanding the positive experience gained from tobacco warning labels to those pertaining to alcohol containers, which clearly state a cancer risk from consumption. It may also be useful for these cancer labels to state that there is no lower threshold for alcohol-related cancer risk along with the types of cancers demonstrably attributable to alcohol consumption so far," the doctors said. They pointed out that a crucial but often ignored aspect while considering warning labels is the multiplicative interaction of smoking and alcohol consumption in determining cancer risk. A National Cancer Institute (NCI) Workshop in December 2020 emphasised the importance of addressing the combined usage of tobacco and alcohol. Co-use of tobacco and alcohol has been found to be associated with a multiplicative effect in cancer risk, particularly for pharyngeal and oral sites. The importance of reciprocative warning labels on tobacco and alcohol product packaging is further underscored by the fact that alcohol usage has been observed to go up with an increase in cigarette smoking, with the former being associated with lower rates of quitting and higher relapse rates in smokers. It may also be worth considering to have helpful or constructive labelling on containers which guide the user to seek medical advice or undergo screening for cancer instead of being terminalistic in its messaging by suggesting graphic or fatal outcomes upon consumption, the researchers said. "Since cancer as a disease may present as a result of the combined effect of alcohol and tobacco consumption, it makes sense to place such cancer warning labels and not address these risk factors in isolation," they said. 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

28 July,2025 11:04 AM IST | Mumbai | PTI
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Over 9 pc of world's land area under high risk of zoonotic outbreak: Study

Over nine per cent of the world's land area is at "high" or "very high" risk of a zoonotic outbreak -- triggered when an infection spreads from an animal to a human or vice versa, such as the Covid pandemic, according to a study. Findings published in the journal Science Advances also estimate 3 per cent of the global population to be living in extremely risky areas, and about a fifth in medium-risk areas. Researchers, including those from the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) Scientific Development Programmes Unit in Italy, analysed location-specific information from the 'Global Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology Network' dataset and the World Health Organization's (WHO) list of diseases prioritised according to their potential for causing an epidemic or a pandemic. Covid, Ebola, coronavirus-related MERS and SARS, and Nipah are among the most prioritised infections in the WHO's list. The team's analysis suggests that conditions driven by climate change -- higher temperatures and rainfall, and water shortage -- elevate the risk of zoonosis, or 'spillover events'. The study "presents a global risk map and an epidemic risk index that combines countries' specific risk with their capacities for preparing and responding to zoonotic threats (excluding SARS-CoV-2)." "Our results indicate that 9.3 per cent of the global land surface is at high (6.3 per cent) or very high (three per cent) risk," the authors wrote. They also estimated about 7 per cent of Asia's and 5 per cent of Africa's land area to be at high and very high risk of outbreak, following Latin America (27 per cent) and Oceania (18.6 per cent). Overall, the authors found that climate-related changes to the environment substantially drove a region's vulnerability to the risk of a spillover event. They wrote, "This underscores the need for continued monitoring and the integration of climate adaptation and mitigation efforts into public health planning." "Translating these risk estimates into an epidemic risk index allows for the identification of high-risk areas and supports policymakers in improving response capacities, allocating resources effectively, and fostering international collaboration to address global health threats," the team said. A study by the Indian Council of Medical Research found that over 8 per cent of outbreaks reported between 2018 and 2023 under the country's infectious disease surveillance system were zoonotic. Of a total of 6,948 outbreaks analysed, 583 (8.3 per cent) were spread to humans from animals. Outbreaks were also found to consistently peak during June, July, and August. The findings were published in The Lancet Regional Southeast Asia journal in May this year. 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

27 July,2025 12:37 PM IST | Mumbai | PTI
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Vaccines prevented over 2.5 million Covid-19 deaths worldwide: Study

Vaccines prevented more than 2.5 million deaths from SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind Covid-19 infections, worldwide, according to a study. The study, led by researchers from the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Italy, showed that one Covid death was avoided for every 5,400 doses of vaccine administered. Some 82 per cent of the lives saved by vaccines involved people vaccinated before encountering the virus, 57 per cent during the Omicron period, and 90 per cent involved people aged 60 years and older. In all, vaccines have saved 14.8 million years of life (one year of life saved for 900 doses of vaccine administered), revealed the findings, published in the journal Jama Health Forum. "Before ours, several studies tried to estimate lives saved by vaccines with different models and in different periods or parts of the world, but this one is the most comprehensive because it is based on worldwide data, it also covers the omicron period, it also calculates the number of years of life that was saved, and it is based on fewer assumptions about the pandemic trend," said the researcher Dr. Angelo Maria Pezzullo, and Dr. Antonio Cristiano from the varsity. For the study, the experts studied worldwide population data, applying a series of statistical methods to figure out who among the people who became ill with Covid did so either before or after getting vaccinated, before or after the Omicron period, and how many of them died (and at what age). "We compared this data with the estimated data modeled in the absence of Covid vaccination and were then able to calculate the numbers of people who were saved by Covid vaccines and the years of life gained as a result of them," Dr. Pezzullo explained. It also turned out that most of the saved years of life (76 per cent) involved people over 60 years of age, but residents in long-term care facilities contributed only 2 per cent of the total number. Children and adolescents (0.01 per cent of lives saved and 0.1 per cent of life years saved) and young adults aged 20–29 (0.07 per cent of lives saved and 0.3 per cent of life years saved) contributed very little to the total benefit, the researchers said. 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

27 July,2025 12:31 PM IST | Mumbai | IANS
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Onion, potato prices in India rose by 80 pc in 2024 due to climate change: Study

Food prices in India saw a sharp rise in 2024 due to an unusually severe heatwave, with onion and potato prices jumping by more than 80 per cent in the second quarter of the year, according to a new study. The study, led by Maximilian Kotz of the Barcelona Supercomputing Centre and involving researchers from the European Central Bank, Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research and the UK's Food Foundation, investigated 16 extreme weather-driven food price shocks across 18 countries between 2022 and 2024. It found that many of these events exceeded all historical precedents before 2020 and were strongly influenced by global warming. "In India, the price of onions and potatoes jumped by over 80 per cent in the second quarter of 2024 after a heatwave in May, a 'largely unique event' that was made at least 1.5 degrees Celsius warmer by climate change," the researchers said. The year 2024 was the hottest on record and the first with a global average temperature 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. In India, extreme heat in May severely affected crop yields and supply chains, contributing to high inflation in essential vegetables. The study warned that such food price shocks could worsen health outcomes, including malnutrition and chronic diseases and increase economic inequality. "Rising food prices have direct implications for food security, particularly for low-income households... When the price of food shoots up, low-income families often have to resort to less nutritious, cheaper foods. Diets like this have been linked to a range of health conditions like cancer, diabetes and heart disease," Kotz said. The researchers said food price inflation due to climate extremes may also "raise headline inflation", making it harder for central banks to maintain price stability, especially in developing countries where food has a larger share in household budgets. The study said that in Ghana and Ivory Coast, global cocoa prices increased by around 280 per cent by April 2024 after a February heatwave. The heat was made 4 degrees Celsius hotter by climate change. In Brazil and Vietnam, heatwaves and drought led to a 55 per cent rise in Arabica coffee prices and a 100 per cent rise in Robusta prices. In the European Union, olive oil prices rose 50 per cent year-on-year by January 2024 after a drought in Spain and Italy. In the United States, vegetable prices increased by 80 per cent in November 2022 due to a drought in California and Arizona. The researchers called for urgent measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and warned that without climate action, such food shocks will become more frequent. "Until we get to net-zero emissions, extreme weather will only get worse and it is already damaging crops and pushing up the price of food all over the world," Kotz said. The study also recommended that governments and central banks use seasonal climate predictions to anticipate food price shocks and prepare targeted support. It cited an HSBC analysis showing that "temperatures are now a better metric for forecasting food prices across India compared to reservoir levels". The study was released ahead of the UN Food Systems Summit Stocktake on July 27, co-hosted by Ethiopia and Italy, both of which also experienced food price shocks due to climate change. The researchers said food affordability must become a policy priority to prevent wider health and political impacts. 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

27 July,2025 12:26 PM IST | Mumbai | PTI
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Study links common diabetes drug with cardiovascular risk

A commonly used type 2 diabetes medication in the US -- Glipizide -- may be linked to a higher rate of heart-related conditions, claimed a study.  Researchers from Mass General Brigham examined nationwide data from nearly 50,000 patients treated with different sulfonylureas. They found that glipizide was linked to a higher incidence of heart failure, related hospitalisation, and death compared to dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. The findings are published in JAMA Network Open. “Patients with type 2 diabetes are at heightened risk of adverse cardiovascular incidents such as stroke and cardiac arrest,” said corresponding author Alexander Turchin, Division of Endocrinology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH). “While sulfonylureas are popular and affordable diabetes medications, there is a lack of long-term clinical data on how they affect cardiac health in comparison to more neutral alternatives like dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors,” he added. Type 2 diabetes is a common chronic disease whose prevalence continues to grow worldwide. Individuals with Type 2 diabetes have an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events, including coronary ischemia, stroke, and heart failure. Mitigation of cardiovascular risk is therefore an important aspect of the treatment of diabetes. The study included 48,165 patients with type 2 diabetes and moderate cardiovascular risk who received care at 10 different study sites across the country. The researchers studied the five-year risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in patients treated with different sulfonylureas (glimepiride, glipizide, or glyburide) or DPP4i in addition to metformin, a primary diabetes medication. They found that glipizide was associated with a 13 per cent increase in cardiovascular risk when compared to DPP4i, while glimepiride and glyburide led to relatively smaller and less clear effects, respectively. “Our study underscores the importance of evaluating each drug in a particular pharmacological class on its own merits,” said Turchin. The team also called for further research to uncover the underlying mechanisms.

26 July,2025 10:58 AM IST | New Delhi | IANS
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