Corneal blindness is on the rise in India, with the country seeing an estimated 20,000 to 25,000 new cases every year, claimed Dr. Smit Bavaria, Cataract Surgeon, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, Mumbai, on Thursday. October is observed as Blindness Awareness Month every year to highlight the issues faced by blind and visually challenged people, and raise awareness about preventable factors leading to the condition. Addressing a press conference on this important issue, Dr. Bavaria stated, “The causes of corneal blindness have shifted in recent years from infectious diseases like keratitis to eye trauma and other eye complications, but the burden remains substantial, especially in rural areas where access to eye care is limited.” What is corneal blindness? Corneal blindness refers to the damage or scarring of the cornea due to infectious diseases or other disorders, that can lead to partial or complete visual impairment. Talking about the condition, Dr. Preethi Naveen, Senior Cornea and Refractive Surgeon and Medical Director, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Bank, Chennai said, “Corneal blindness is a significant cause of vision loss in India, affecting approximately 12 lakh people. India's high prevalence of corneal blindness is primarily due to infections like trachoma and keratitis, eye injuries in industrial and agricultural settings and widespread vitamin A deficiency. Poor hygiene, delayed medical interventions and limited access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas further aggravate the problem.” She further stressed that children and working-age adults in rural areas are particularly susceptible due to malnutrition, frequent eye injuries and limited healthcare access. Elderly individuals are also at risk due to degenerative eye conditions. Overall, an estimated 1–2 per cent of India’s total population is at risk of developing corneal blindness. How to diagnose and treat corneal blindness? Addressing this question, Dr. Naveen said, “Current diagnostic methods for corneal blindness in India include a comprehensive eye examination, visual acuity testing and slit-lamp biomicroscopy, which allow ophthalmologists to assess corneal clarity and identify conditions like keratitis, ulcers or scarring. Advanced imaging techniques such as anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) and corneal topography provide detailed assessments of corneal thickness and surface irregularities, aiding in accurate diagnosis. Corneal transplantation or therapeutic interventions are also highly successful in individuals without significant underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or severe immune disorders, which may complicate recovery.” Challenges in diagnosing and treating corneal blindness Challenges in accessibility and healthcare disparities persist, highlighting the need for continued and targeted interventions. Dr. Sanjana Vatsa, Cornea and Refractive Eye Surgeon, Bengaluru, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital said, “Many patients in rural areas lack access to quality eye care services, which often results in irreversible corneal damage before they seek help. Additionally, there is a substantial gap in training and resources for healthcare providers, limiting their ability to effectively manage and treat corneal conditions. Shortage of corneal donors is also one of the major barriers, as there are few organised corneal transplant programs in place. Despite efforts to promote eye donation and corneal transplantation, the demand for corneas significantly outpaces supply, with only 25,000 to 30,000 corneal donations annually against a need for 200,000 transplants. Socio-economic factors, such as poverty and malnutrition, exacerbate the risk of corneal blindness, making it difficult to implement comprehensive prevention and treatment strategies.” The way forward Dr. Vatsa suggested the following measures to reduce incidences of corneal blindness in India: At an individual level, there is a need to increase awareness about eye health, encouraging routine eye examinations to identify and treat issues at an early stage. Launching initiatives focused on eye health education and the importance of corneal donation can increase public participation. Implementing programs to address nutritional deficiencies, particularly Vitamin A supplementation in vulnerable populations, can reduce cornea-related issues. Also Read: More than 85 per cent of blindness cases in India preventable: Experts
25 October,2024 04:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentEven as India celebrates a decade of being polio-free, it is important to identify areas with low polio vaccination coverage to protect children from the devastating disease, and pave the way for a healthy future, said experts on World Polio Day on October 24. World Polio Day is celebrated on October 24 every year to raise awareness about polio -- a viral disease that mainly affects children below the age of five. India has achieved a significant milestone in eradicating polio with the country declared free of polio by the World Health Organization in 2014. However, polio remains a threat, and the pace of the polio vaccine has also slowed down in India, with the coverage levels being poorest in the north-east, as seen in recent data from the National Family Health Survey. This is also reflected in the recent case in August, where a two-year-old child in Meghalaya's West Garo Hills district was confirmed to have a case of vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV). Earlier in 2022, an immunodeficiency-related vaccine-derived poliovirus (iVDPV) specimen was detected in Kolkata through routine surveillance, though this did not equate to a case of polio in the area. “Given the high vaccination coverage in India, these detections do not result in increased cases of polio. However, there is concern that if vaccination rates decline, the polio viruses could re-enter the population and cause disease. Therefore, it is crucial to identify areas with low vaccination coverage and take corrective action,” Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, Chairman of the Kerala State IMA Research Cell, told IANS. “While India has been polio-free for 10 years, we must remain vigilant, especially with the virus still present in neighbouring countries,” said Deepak Kapur, Chairman of Rotary International’s India National PolioPlus Committee (RI-INPPC), at an event on Thursday. “With only two endemic countries remaining -- Pakistan and Afghanistan -- we can finally see the silver lining on the horizon, therefore, keep our focus on immunisation,” he added. The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), launched in 1988, efficiently reduced over 99.9 per cent polio cases, and also eradicated wild poliovirus (WPV) types 2 and 3. “India has achieved significant milestones in polio eradication within the duration of the last twenty years. However, the fight is still on as some sensibilities still remain because of: poor healthcare facilities; reluctance to vaccination; and socio-economic factors,” Dr. Parimala V Thirumalesh, Sr. Consultant - Neonatology &Pediatrics, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, said. Constant improvement in surveillance, vaccination coverage, and community involvement continues to be crucial in the fight against polio which can be transmitted via eating or drinking contaminated substances and lead to partial paralysis and even death. “We must remain vigilant as challenges persist, particularly in regions where vaccine-derived polio remains a threat. We must innovate and adapt our strategies to reach the most vulnerable populations. Empowering local health workers is vital, as they are key to building trust within communities and addressing vaccine hesitancy,” Dr Ritesh Yadav, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Paras Health, Gurugram, 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.
25 October,2024 03:11 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSWith the advent of the digital revolution that ushered in a huge market for online casino and sports betting market, an estimated 80 million people globally experience gambling disorder or problematic gambling, with adolescents being the most affected, according to research published in The Lancet Public Health Commission on Friday. The Commission noted that children and adolescents are routinely exposed to advertising of gambling products in "unprecedented ways" and are the most affected. It is because children and adolescents remain "particularly vulnerable to the allure of easy money and the game-like designs of online gambling." They called for stronger global regulatory controls to reduce the impact of commercial gambling on worldwide health and wellbeing. An international team of researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis and found that approximately 448.7 million adults worldwide experience any risk gambling, where individuals experience at least one behavioural symptom or adverse personal, social, or health consequence of gambling. Of these, an estimated 80 million adults experience gambling disorder or problematic gambling. Further, gambling using online casinos or slot products was found to lead to gambling disorders in 15.8 per cent of adults and 26.4 per cent of adolescents. Gambling using sports betting products affected 8.9 per cent of adults and 16.3 per cent of adolescents. Professor Heather Wardle, Co-Chair of the Commission from the University of Glasgow said unlike the traditional Las Vegas casino or a lottery ticket, “anyone with a mobile phone now has access to what is essentially a casino in their pocket, 24 hours a day”. Wardle said that “large technology companies are deploying a variety of techniques to get more people to engage more frequently that can pose substantial health risks”. “Highly sophisticated marketing and technology make it easier to start, and harder to stop gambling. If we delay, gambling and gambling harms will become even more widely embedded as a global phenomenon and much harder to tackle,” she added. While commercial gambling is known to be associated with financial losses and the risk of financial ruin, it is also associated with physical and mental health problems, relationship and family breakdown, heightened risk of suicide and domestic violence, increased crime against property and people, and loss of employment, the researchers said. Dr Kristiana Siste, Commissioner of the Universitas Indonesia called on policymakers to “take action to protect children from the harms of gambling”. She noted that the risks of developing gambling disorders later in life due to early exposure to gambling increases are clearly evident. The Commission urged policymakers to treat gambling as a public health issue, just as alcohol and tobacco, and to bring in policy to preserve the next generation from gambling-related harms. 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.
25 October,2024 03:10 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSEven as air quality in the national capital continues to be in the 'very poor' category, health experts on Thursday said that prolonged exposure to air pollution may be detrimental to the brain. According to Central Pollution Control Board data (CPCB), the air quality index (AQI) was 336 at 7.30 a.m. Various monitoring stations across the national capital recorded the air quality in the 'very poor' category -- between 301 and 400. During the day, the air quality is expected to drop to the 'severe' category at places where the AQI is near 400, as per the CPCB. A recent study, published in The Lancet Planetary Health, showed short-term air pollution exposure claimed 33,000 lives annually in 10 cities in India, and Delhi topped the list with 12,000 deaths every year. Dr PN Renjen, senior consultant, neurology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, said that pollution poses a significant threat to both physical and neurological health. “Heavy metals like lead and mercury, along with volatile organic compounds, have detrimental effects on brain function. Neurotoxins from pollution can bypass the blood-brain barrier, triggering inflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal damage,” Renjen said. “This not only impairs cognitive abilities such as memory, attention, and executive functioning but also increases the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. In addition, pollution increases the risk of cerebral stroke due to neurotoxins and oxidative stress, which affect the arteries and contribute to atherosclerosis,” the doctor said. Higher levels of particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) exposure can increase the risk of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, revealed recent studies, published in the JAMA Network Open. Prolonged exposure to air pollution has also been associated with reduced brain volume, accelerated brain ageing, and higher rates of mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable, with studies showing that children exposed to high levels of pollution may experience impaired cognitive development, while older adults face a heightened risk of cognitive decline. Besides the brain, rising pollution levels can also affect eyes, and skin and lead to respiratory issues. “Exposure to smoke and particulate matter can cause redness, itching, and tearing in eyes, while increased pollen and pollutants can exacerbate allergies,” Dr. Mukesh Mehra, Senior Director-Internal Medicine, Max Super Speciality Hospital told IANS. Pollutants can also cause skin irritation, breakouts, and allergic reactions. Long-term exposure can also lead to skin damage and premature ageing, trigger asthma attacks and other chronic respiratory diseases, the doctor said. The experts called on to create a safe indoor environment with air purifiers; use masks while going outside during high pollution levels, and eat healthy. 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.
24 October,2024 06:48 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSIn a medical achievement, a 33-year-old Mumbai woman suffering from a rare esophageal disorder was successfully treated using an innovative endoscopic suturing technique. Surbhi Galaiya, a resident of Jamnagar, had been battling life-threatening lung complications and the inability to swallow due to a rare condition that caused an abnormal connection between her oesophagus and lungs. As a result, everything she consumed would end up in her lungs, posing a severe risk to her health. After several failed treatments, including an unsuccessful attempt to close the connection with a metallic clip, she was reliant on a nasogastric tube for survival. Dr. Amit Maydeo, Chairman, Institute of Gastrosciences, HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, and his team performed a pioneering endoscopic procedure, using cutting-edge suturing technology to close the defect without the need for any external incisions. The minimally invasive approach restored her ability to eat and helped treat the disorder. Dr. Maydeo commented, “This case was particularly challenging due to the complexity of the esophageal-lung connection. Traditional methods had failed, and our only option was to try something new: a suturing technique. We are thrilled with the success of this procedure, as it has not only saved the patient’s life but also paved the way for a new approach to treating similar conditions globally.” Galaiya, who got a new lease of life after this procedure, said, “I had almost given up hope after multiple failed treatments. I’m so thankful to Dr. Maydeo and his team for giving me a second chance at life. Being able to eat again without fear has changed everything for me.” This application of endoscopic esophageal repair demonstrates the potential of minimally invasive techniques in addressing complex medical conditions, offering patients a faster recovery and improved outcomes. Also Read: Mumbai: 58-year-old Army man with ankle pain successfully undergoes ankle arthroscopy for damaged cartilage 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
24 October,2024 04:53 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
As the vibrant festival of Diwali approaches, the air fills with excitement, anticipation, and the unmistakable sound of firecrackers. While these beautiful displays are a cherished tradition to many, they also contribute to noise pollution, impacting the well-being of individuals and communities around. Ahead of the festival of lights, mid-day.com spoke to health professionals, Dr Adip Shetty, ENT Surgeon, Lilavati Hospital and Dr Ravina Shetty, ENT, Zynova Shalby Hospital in Mumbai to learn more about it. As we celebrate this festival of lights, it is crucial to acknowledge the darker side of our joyous celebrations and explore strategies to mitigate noise pollution's impact. These doctors not only share the causes but also the effects and tips to deal with it. What symptoms individuals might experience due to exposure to noise pollution? Adip: Permanent or temporary hearing loss, headaches, palpitations, ear pain, confusion, irritability, insomnia, and high blood pressure are some of the common symptoms of noise pollution that can impact one's well-being and interfere with the daily routine. Ravina: Noise pollution can cause more harm than you may think. It not only affects your hearing but your mental well-being too. One can experience a range of symptoms. This includes symptoms like extreme headache, anxiety, stress, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), difficulty in sleeping, dramatic mood swings, unable to concentrate, high blood pressure, and hearing loss. The severity of these symptoms can vary from person to person. What are the short-term and long-term effects of noise pollution on health, specifically related to firecracker use? Adip: Short-term effects of noise pollution are headaches, ear pain, and irritability, and long-term effects are anxiety, stress, and hearing impairment that is hearing loss. It is imperative to consult an expert without any delay to initiate further treatment. Ravina: Crackers are mostly busted during the nighttime which can negatively affect one's sleeping pattern making it difficult to fall asleep. This can highly affect the next day making them irritable and stressed. The loud and sharp noise of these firecrackers can hamper their hearing resulting in various hearing-related problems. Over a long time, repeated exposure to loud noise can lead to chronic stress, mental health problems, high blood pressure, deteriorating ear health, and cardiovascular problems. Which age groups are most affected by noise pollution from firecrackers? Adip: The age group from 10-75 is impacted by noise pollution. Noise pollution doesn’t discriminate based on age and takes a toll on everyone. It is better to be at home sound and safe. Ravina: Noise pollution can affect anyone irrespective of their age. The loud and sharp noise from firecrackers can be overwhelming for everyone. However, people with sensitive hearing, particularly children and the elderly, can be highly affected by the noise pollution caused by firecrackers. Is there a gender difference in sensitivity to noise pollution effects from firecrackers? Adip: There is no link between gender and noise pollution impact. It is not gender- specific and anyone can experience problems due to noise pollution. Who are the most vulnerable population when it comes to noise pollution? Adip: However, infants, children, older people, and pregnant women will be vulnerable to noise pollution. Also, those with depression, panic attacks, or Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be sensitive to noise pollution. Even people known to have cardiac problems, stroke, and cancer should stay away from noise pollution due to firecrackers. Ravina: Various people are most vulnerable when it comes to noise pollution. Children or infants are more likely to get affected as their hearing aid is just developing and loud and sharp noise can be harmful to their ears. Similarly, elderly people should refrain from going to areas with increased noise pollution as they are more sensitive to noise with increasing age. What strategies can individuals adopt to avoid getting affected by noise pollution? Adip: One should be at home to stay away from noise pollution and keep the doors and windows closed. Make sure to use earplugs, and try to celebrate any event without firecrackers. Just like humans, even animals should be kept away from firecracker noise pollution. Restrict the time of using firecrackers. Ravina: If you are more sensitive towards any type of sharp or intense noise then you can try to avoid visiting areas with increased noise like gatherings or events where people are actively bursting firecrackers. These days people can even try using noise-cancelling earphones to protect their hearing and reduce the intensity of the noise. How should individuals manage symptoms after being diagnosed with noise-induced health issues? Adip: Firstly if you feel you have hearing loss post any noise exposure, the first thing is to do an audiogram and speech discrimination hearing tests. Use medication advised by the doctor, and use ear plugs or cotton to reduce the sound exposure. Some might require hearing aids if hearing loss cannot be reversed with medications. People should avoid excessive noise that is coming from firecrackers. Ensure to keep children away from loud noises. Ravina: If you start to experience symptoms like reduced hearing or problems in hearing then consider consulting a doctor for a detailed assessment. People often tend to take these symptoms lightly with the hope that they may get better over time. However, delayed doctor visits can only worsen your condition as well as the symptoms. Avoid taking these hearing problems lightly or try to treat them at home with DIY remedies. Your doctor may evaluate your condition and recommend an effective solution for a positive outcome. Exposure to loud sounds can result into sudden hearing loss which can be identified as ringing sensation in the ear and reduced perception of sound. These symptoms can be reversed significantly if prompt treatment is taken within 72 hours of onset. Share tips to help reduce the impact of noise pollution on mental health. Adip: Avoid activities that cause high levels of noise pollution, use noise-cancellation earphones, and create quiet spaces at home to escape that loud noise. Meditate or do yoga to de-stress, watch the TV with low volume, and speak softly with others. Avoid any events conducted on roads that involve firecrackers and loudspeakers. Ravina: Sudden loud noise from firecrackers can be disturbing to those suffering from mental health problems like anxiety, stress, and depression. During this time plugging your noise-cancelling headphones and reading a novel or book from your favourite author can be a smart choice. If loud and sharp noise tends to make you stressed and anxious then practising mindfulness can be helpful. Activities like yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises can work effectively in calming you down amidst all the chaos. How can community awareness and policy changes reduce the effects of firecracker noise pollution? Adip: Raising awareness and educating people regarding the harmful effects of noise emitted from firecrackers and loudspeakers will help to stay healthy and hearty. It is better to encourage everyone to limit the use of firecrackers at a restricted time and place and limit exposure to noise pollution. Ravina: Noise pollution due to firecrackers is a serious concern that affects millions of people during the festive season. While firecracker busting can be a fun experience for some, it may also be an overwhelming experience for children, pregnant women, those suffering from mental health problems, trying to work, or even animals. People need to be educated about the harmful effects of bursting firecrackers which can contribute to air and noise pollution and littering. Stringent policies by the government about time restrictions for bursting firecrackers will be beneficial in controlling noise pollution. Also Read: Diwali 2024: Is a ban and other regulations on firecrackers effective in curbing air pollution?
24 October,2024 11:18 AM IST | Mumbai | Jyoti ShuklaWhile breast cancer is often perceived as a women's disease, men also suffer from the deadly disease. However, stigma delays their diagnosis and treatment, potentially worsening outcomes, said experts on Wednesday. October is marked as Breast Cancer awareness month. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 0.5–1 per cent of breast cancers occur in men. While this percentage may seem small, it translates to thousands of men worldwide facing this diagnosis each year. “Despite its rarity, breast cancer in men is often diagnosed later than in women. Many men are unaware that they can develop breast cancer, leading to delayed detection. However, early detection significantly improves survival rates,” Dr. Ramesh Sarin, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centres, told IANS. “One of the biggest challenges in addressing male breast cancer is the stigma surrounding it. Many men feel embarrassed or emasculated by a diagnosis traditionally associated with women. This stigma can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, potentially worsening outcomes,” she added. The most common type of male breast cancer is invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), which starts in the ducts and spreads to surrounding tissue. Other types include invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), Paget’s disease of the nipple, and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a non-invasive form. According to Sarin, the symptoms of breast cancer in men are similar to those in women. As women, men should also be aware of potential signs like a lump or thickening in the breast tissue, changes in the skin covering the breast, such as dimpling, redness, or scaling, changes to the nipple, such as redness or scaling, or a nipple that begins to turn inward or discharge from the nipple. “It's important to note that most breast lumps in men are not cancerous. However, any unusual changes should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional,” Sarin said. Age, family history, genetic mutations, radiation exposure, liver disease, and obesity are the risk factors that can increase a man's risk of developing breast cancer: Dr Anshuman Kumar, Director of Surgical Oncology, Dharamshila Narayana Superspeciality Hospital called out the need to live a healthy lifestyle and avoid ultra-processed foods. “Processed and ultra-processed foods, especially when consumed warm in plastic containers, release harmful chemicals like phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), which are known to disrupt hormonal balance and contribute to cancer risk. Irregular eating habits and exposure to food adulterants, insecticides, and heavy metals further exacerbate the situation,” Kumar told IANS. Also Read: Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Fear of test results delays breast cancer diagnoses, say Mumbai doctors 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
24 October,2024 10:48 AM IST | Mumbai | IANSLong-term exposure to arsenic in drinking water may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease even at exposure levels below the regulatory limit, according to a new study on Wednesday. The study led by researchers at Columbia University in the US is the first to describe exposure-response relationships at concentrations below the current regulatory limit (10 micrograms per litre). It also substantiates that prolonged exposure to arsenic in water contributes to the development of ischemic heart disease. For the study, published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, the team compared various time windows of exposure. “Our findings further reinforces the importance of considering non-cancer outcomes, and specifically cardiovascular disease, which is the number one cause of death in the US and globally,” said Danielle Medgyesi, a doctoral student in the Department of Environmental Health Sciences at Columbia Mailman School. To evaluate the relationship between long-term arsenic exposure from community water supplies (CWS) and cardiovascular disease, the researchers analysed 98,250 participants, 6,119 ischemic heart disease cases, and 9,936 CVD cases. The study found decade-long arsenic exposure up to the time of a cardiovascular disease event was associated with the greatest risk. The findings are consistent with a previous study in Chile finding peak mortality of acute myocardial infarction around a decade after a period of very high arsenic exposure. The study found a substantial 20 per cent risk at arsenic exposures ranging from 5 to less than 10 micrograms per litre which affected about 3.2 per cent of participants. The results highlight the serious health consequences not only when community water systems do not meet the current standards but also at levels below them. The study emphasised the need for implementing regulatory standards to protect health. 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.
23 October,2024 01:56 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSEven as air quality in Delhi fell to the ‘very poor’ category, city doctors on October 22 reported a 30 per cent surge in respiratory diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A thick layer of smog enveloped Delhi on the morning as the city’s air quality deteriorated to the ‘very poor’ category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), 27 monitoring stations in the national capital fell in the red zone, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 317 recorded around 9:00 a.m. The health experts blamed changing weather and pollution levels for the rise in respiratory disease. Children, pregnant women, and the elderly are at the highest risk. Dr. Vikas Maurya, senior director and HOD Pulmonology, Fortis Hospital said that as winter is approaching and pollution is increasing with lower AQI, there has been an increase in cases of acute bronchitis and asthma attack. “There has been a 30-40 per cent rise in these respiratory diseases. Pollutants with PM 2.5 and PM 10 along with dust particles and vehicular emissions in increased concentration are causing irritation and inflammation to the airways when inhaled,” Maurya said. Children, the elderly, those with weak immunity, and those with pre-existing lung diseases like asthma, COPD, and cardiac issues are more at risk. These people are more likely to present with symptoms like excessive cough, mucus production, sneezing, chest pain, and breathing problems. “With the approaching winter season, stubble burning, vehicular exhaust, the pollutants in the air have crossed levels suitable for human health. These toxic gases irritate the lungs, especially of the elderly and asthmatic and COPD patients,” Bobby Bhalotra, professor and senior consultant, Department of Chest Medicine, SGRH, said. The experts advised people to take precautions, such as wearing masks, and using air purifiers indoors if they are immobile in bed and are in the high-risk category. They also called for avoiding outdoor activities when air quality is poor. Dr Vikas Mittal, pulmonologist, Department of Respiratory Medicine, C K Birla Hospital, said that the asthma cases are also being driven by the seasonal transition and an increase in pollen counts. Allergic rhinitis is also seeing an uptick due to similar triggers, he said. “The current seasonal transition has resulted in fluctuating temperatures, which, alongside high pollen levels, are exacerbating asthma and other respiratory diseases. The conditions are complicating air quality, making it harder for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions to breathe easily,” Mittal said. The hospital is witnessing 20-30 per cent cases of asthma and other respiratory diseases. The experts called on people with lung diseases to take their preventive medication regularly and keep indoor plants air purifiers to keep indoors clean. Bhalotra recommended immediate medical care in case of breathing trouble indicated by fast pulse rate and inability to complete sentences. 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.
23 October,2024 01:48 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSLoneliness is a major risk factor that increases the risk of dementia by over 30 per cent, regardless of age or gender, a review of 21 long-term studies involving over six lakh participants worldwide has found. Loneliness, which involves one feeling dissatisfied with their social relationships, was also linked with symptoms preceding the stage of being diagnosed with dementia, such as cognitive impairment or decline. Both conditions affect decision-making, memory and thought process. However, dementia's symptoms are severe enough to interfere with one's daily functioning. The psychological state of feeling disconnected from society is now widely regarded as a risk factor for ill-health, even though studies have shown that loneliness cannot directly cause the disease. "Dementia is spectrum, with neuropathological changes that start decades before clinical onset. It is important to continue studying the link of loneliness with different cognitive outcomes or symptoms across this spectrum," Martina Luchetti, an assistant professor at Florida State University, and lead author of the study published in the journal Nature Mental Health, said. Aspects of psychological wellbeing such as lacking purpose in life or feeling like there are fewer opportunities for personal growth were found to have noticeably declined three to six years before a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment. The result was published in August in the Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery and Psychiatry. In this study, loneliness was found to increase overall risk of dementia by 30 per cent, risk of Alzheimer's disease by 39 per cent, vascular dementia by 73 per cent and cognitive impairment by 15 per cent. Alzheimer's disease is caused by accumulation of proteins in brain, which is thought to cause cell death, while vascular dementia is caused by damage to brain's blood vessels. The findings can help identify sources of loneliness to support the well-being and cognitive health of ageing adults, Luchetti said. The authors acknowledged that the study included subjects largely from the western world. They called for future research to look at data from other countries, including low-income ones, where cases of the ageing-related conditions are rising. "We know there are rising cases of dementia in low-income countries. Future studies need to gather more data from those countries to evaluate what are the effects of loneliness in different national and cultural contexts," Luchetti added. 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
22 October,2024 05:17 PM IST | Mumbai | PTI
In an unfortunate turn of events, seven children lost their lives due to diphtheria in one month in the Deeg district of Rajasthan, and at least 24 others tested positive. According to an IANS report, the children who succumbed to the disease were aged between three to seven years. Teams from the State Health Department and the World Health Organization (WHO) also landed in the area to assess the situation and control the outbreak. Diphtheria is a highly contagious disease, which affects the upper respiratory tract or skin and can spread by contact with the infected person or through respiratory droplets. It is highly preventable with vaccination. People in some rural areas may be more prone to the disease due to their resistance to administering vaccines. Given the severity of the disease and its contagious nature, mid-day.com speaks to Dr. ChandraVeer Singh, Consultant Otorhinolaryngologist and Head and neck Onco Surgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, and Dr. Nikhil Kulkarni, Consultant in Internal Medicine at S.L Raheja Hospital (a Fortis Associate), who highlight the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention tips for diphtheria. What is diphtheria and how is it caused? Singh: Diphtheria is a type of bacterial infection. It is an infection of the nose and the throat and is contagious i.e., it can easily spread through respiratory droplets or the touch of an infected person. It is mainly caused by a bacteria called Corynebacterium diphtheriae. This particular bacteria attacks the lining of the respiratory system while releasing harmful toxins. This further leads to a build-up of tissues in the throat making it difficult to breathe or even swallow. Kulkarni: Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It primarily affects the throat and can lead to difficulty breathing, heart problems and even death if left untreated. What are some symptoms of diphtheria that one should look out for? Singh: Individuals infected with diphtheria may experience a range of symptoms, which can vary from person to person. This can include symptoms like sore throat, difficulty in breathing, unable to speak, painful swallowing, hoarseness of the voice, chills, fever, tonsils, cough, drooling, loss of appetite, weakness of the muscles, fatigue, blisters, lesions, skin infection, rashes and discolouration. One should actively look for these symptoms and immediately consult a doctor. Kulkarni: Some notable symptoms of diphtheria are: Sore throat and hoarseness Fever and chills Swelling in the neck (due to enlarged lymph nodes) Thick, grey, or white coating on the throat and tonsils Difficulty swallowing or breathing How does diphtheria affect the body? Can it prove to be life-threatening? Singh: This bacterial infection tends to affect the respiratory mucous membranes by producing toxins in excess quantity. This leads to the formation of a thick grey layer in the nose, throat and airway passage. This makes it difficult for an individual to even breathe. When these toxins are mixed in the bloodstream, they are more likely to affect various organs while causing severe damage to the nerves and the heart. Diphtheria can be life-threatening in children and the elderly if left untreated or ignored for an extended period. Kulkarni: Diphtheria spreads through respiratory droplets which are produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be contracted by touching contaminated surfaces. Yes, it can be potentially life-threatening. Swelling in the neck can lead to airway obstruction. As a toxin-mediated disease, the toxins released by the bacteria require a specific antitoxin, which may sometimes be in short supply. This toxin can result in myocarditis (inflammation of the heart tissue), vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels), and neuropathy (nerve damage) and can lead to kidney issues and multiple organ failure due to vasculitis. Are kids more prone to diphtheria? If yes, why? Singh: Kids are more susceptible to diphtheria. It is mostly because their immune system is still yet to develop. Children who have not been vaccinated for this infection are more likely to get infected with diphtheria. Generally, children tend to come in close contact with numerous children in the school, daycare and playground. This can increase the spread of this disease among the children. Kulkarni: Children are usually vaccinated according to national guidelines, so they are generally protected unless they have not received their vaccinations in due time. Are there any differences in symptoms for children and adults? Singh: The symptoms may vary from person to person. It becomes difficult to categorise symptoms according to the age groups. The intensity and the severity of the symptoms may not be the same for everyone. Kulkarni: Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that can be serious and even fatal in adults. Here are some symptoms of diphtheria that are usually seen in adults: A thick, gray membrane that covers the throat, nose, and tonsils A sore throat A low-grade fever Swollen lymph nodes in the neck Muscle weakness Loss of appetite A barking cough Hoarseness Difficulty breathing or swallowing Bluish coloration of the skin The presentation of symptoms is usually similar in both children and adults. What are the treatment options for diphtheria? Singh: If you are diagnosed with diphtheria, it becomes essential to visit a doctor before wasting any time. Delaying the doctor's visit and trying to cure it with home remedies can only worsen your condition. Your doctor may suggest certain antibiotics and antitoxins to effectively combat the bacteria that has caused diphtheria. Kulkarni: Treatment options for diphtheria include: Administration of antitoxin to neutralise the toxin produced by the bacteria Antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria Supportive care for any complications as and when they arise Is diphtheria preventable? Please share some tips. Singh: Diphtheria can be prevented. One of the most effective and easiest ways to prevent the risk of diphtheria is to get vaccinated for it. It becomes crucial to stay up-to-date with your vaccination to safeguard yourself from this disease. Also, practicing good hygiene by frequently washing your hands with soap and water can be helpful. This can help prevent the spread of infectious diseases like diphtheria. Kulkarni: Vaccination is the most effective method to prevent diphtheria. The diphtheria vaccine is typically administered in combination with vaccines for tetanus and pertussis (DTP or DTaP). Keeping vaccination rates high is essential to prevent outbreaks, as diphtheria can be life-threatening, particularly in unvaccinated groups. The vaccination schedule for children includes doses at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15-18 months and 4-6 years. Can someone get diphtheria even after taking the vaccine? Singh: Vaccines are often taken to protect yourself from contracting that particular disease. But there's still a small chance of contracting diphtheria even if you have been vaccinated for it. Kulkarni: Diphtheria outbreaks were recorded recently among adolescents who have not received booster shots. The Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) booster is recommended for those aged 11-12 years, and adults should receive a Td or Tdap booster every 10 years. Are people more at risk of respiratory diphtheria during this time of the year (near Diwali)? Singh: All respiratory conditions linked to Diwali are more common and usually exacerbated by environmental pollution. Diphtheria is rarer and can be more severe, requiring vaccination and timely antibiotic treatment to prevent complications. Also Read: Fear of test results delays breast cancer diagnoses, say Mumbai doctors
22 October,2024 10:22 AM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainADVERTISEMENT
