Men with cardiovascular disease risk factors such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and smoking may have brain health decline, leading to dementia, 10 years earlier than women, finds a study on Wednesday. The findings of a long-term study, published online in the Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, showed that men with cardiovascular disease risk factors can have dementia onset a decade earlier -- from their mid-50s to mid-70s -- than similarly affected women who are most susceptible from their mid-60s to mid-70s. Researchers from Imperial College London, UK found that the most vulnerable regions of the brain are those involved in processing auditory information, aspects of visual perception, emotional processing, and memory. They noted that the damaging effects are just as evident in those who didn’t carry the high-risk APOE4 gene -- a genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease -- as those who did. “The detrimental impact of cardiovascular risk was widespread throughout cortical regions, highlighting how cardiovascular risk can impair a range of cognitive functions,” said the researchers. The study included 34,425 participants from the UK Biobank all of whom had had both abdominal and brain scans. Their average age was 63, but ranged from 45 to 82. The results showed that both men and women with increased levels of abdominal fat and visceral adipose tissue had lower brain grey matter volume. High cardiovascular risk and obesity led to a gradual loss of brain volume over several decades, said the researchers. The team thus stressed the need to target “modifiable cardiovascular risk factors, including obesity,” to treat or prevent neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer’s. The study also emphasises “the importance of aggressively targeting cardiovascular risk factors before the age of 55 years to prevent neurodegeneration and Alzheimer’s disease”. These may also prevent other cardiovascular events, such as myocardial infarction [heart attack] and stroke”. While the study is observational and no firm conclusions can be drawn, targeting cardiovascular risk and obesity early may be crucial. Also Read: Covid-19 driven factors led to surge in early onset of diabetes, finds study 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 November,2024 12:43 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSWomen suffering from depression are more likely to experience menstrual pain (also known as dysmenorrhea), finds a study on Wednesday. Previous research has shown women are twice as likely as men to suffer from depression and often experience more severe physical symptoms. While the links between mental health and reproductive health have been found, the associations have remained underexplored. To decode this, researchers from China and the UK led a study where they analysed genetic variation and identified specific genes that may be responsible for the effect of depression on menstrual pain. "Our findings provide preliminary evidence that depression may be a cause, rather than a consequence, of dysmenorrhea," said lead author Shuhe Liu, a doctoral student at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool-University (XJTLU), China. They, however, “did not find evidence that period pain increased the risk of depression”. In the study, published in the journal Briefings in Bioinformatics, the team analysed approximately 600,000 cases from European populations and 8,000 from East Asian populations and saw a strong link in both datasets. They also examined the role of sleeplessness -- a common problem among those suffering from depression -- as a significant mediator between depression and dysmenorrhea. The results showed that increased sleep disturbances could exacerbate menstrual pain, thus stressing the need to address sleep issues to manage both conditions. Further, the study also highlighted the need for a holistic approach when treating mental health and reproductive issues. Liu noted that “mental disorders are often not considered when treating conditions such as period pain”. "Our findings emphasise the importance of mental health screening for people who suffer from severe menstrual pain”. While the researchers called for more studies to establish the link, they said the findings can pave the way for “more personalised treatment options, and improved healthcare, and reduce the stigma surrounding the conditions”. Also Read: Can air pollution affect weight gain and hormonal health? Here's what experts say 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 November,2024 10:42 AM IST | Mumbai | IANSThe winter season is upon us! While this time of the year witnesses many celebrations and is generally characterised by the holiday cheer, it can also exacerbate certain health conditions like joint pain. Experiencing pain and discomfort in the bones and joints is common during winters, especially for those suffering from arthritis. “The cold weather during the winter is to be blamed for this extreme pain in your joints. It can cause stiffness in the joints making it difficult to move around freely. People can experience pain and discomfort in various areas such as knees, elbows or wrists,” informs Dr Girish Bhalerao, Super Specialty Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Wockhardt Hospital Mira Road. “The sudden drop in the temperature can reduce the blood flow to your joints, making them more sensitive to pain,” he adds. Warning signs to look out for One can experience a range of symptoms. These include stiffness in the joints, swelling, unbearable pain in the joints and reduced range of motion. Tips to prevent joint pain during the winter Joint pain can affect day-to-day functioning of an individual. Hence, it becomes important to take proactive steps to prevent join pain and take care of your health. Dr Bhalerao suggests the following: Stay warm: The coldness in the environment during winter can make your joints stiff, making it a painful experience. Individuals are advised to wear warm clothes that can help keep joints warm and cozy. You can even use heating pads or take warm baths to soothe your joints. But make sure the water isn’t too hot as it can be harmful to your skin. Exercise regularly: Maintaining an exercise routine during the winter season can be helpful. You can indulge in a range of physical activities and exercises like stretching, running, jogging, cycling, dancing, yoga, meditation, cardio and hitting the gym. This can help keep your joints flexible while improving blood circulation. Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put extreme pressure on your joints, especially in areas like knees, hips and lower back. This can be painful and overwhelming. Maintaining a healthy weight can not only be beneficial in keeping you fit but also strengthen your joints. A combination of a balanced diet and regular exercise can help keep your weight in check. Eat anti-Inflammatory foods: The key to preventing joint pain during winter is to eat well-balanced meals. Your daily meals should include foods like spinach, broccoli and sweet potatoes, along with spices like turmeric, ginger and garlic. You can make a variety of dishes with these ingredients such as soups, broths and stews that can not only help strengthen your joints but also keep you warm during this season. Also Read: Over 30 years and suffering from backache, knee pain? Mumbai doctors tell you why
27 November,2024 10:04 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA video shared by Ministry of Railways, showcasing a Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE) performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on a 70-year-old conscious passenger who had suffered a heart attack has attracted criticism on social media, with medical experts pointing out that performing this procedure on a conscious person can be dangerous. CPR is a life-saving emergency procedure and given its critical nature, it becomes essential to administer it accurately at the correct time. In a conversation with mid-day.com, Dr Pradeep Kumar D, Senior Consultant – Cardiology, Manipal Hospital, Yeshwanthpur, discusses the essentials of performing CPR. When should CPR be given? When should it be stopped? Dr Pradeep: CPR should be administered to a patient who is unresponsive, not breathing spontaneously and has no pulse. These are signs of a cardiac arrest, and immediate CPR can help maintain circulation and oxygenation until emergency medical services arrive. CPR should be stopped when the patient begins to breathe on their own, regains a pulse or when trained emergency responders arrive. If the person regains consciousness or begins breathing, continue monitoring until help arrives. What is the correct process of administering CPR? Dr Pradeep: CPR should be performed with chest compressions on the lower half of the chest, with a depth of compression 5-6 cm and a compression rate of 100-120 per minute. After 30 compressions, 2 rescue breaths should be given. The breaths should be delivered only if the person is not breathing on their own and if mouth-to-mouth is appropriate. This process should continue until the person shows signs of life, such as breathing or moving, or until emergency medical personnel take over. What are some definitive 'Don’ts' of performing CPR? Dr Pradeep: It is essential to keep the following don’ts in mind while performing CPR: 1. Don’t perform CPR on someone who is alert, conscious and talking. If the person is responsive and breathing, CPR is not necessary and could cause harm. 2. Don’t give chest compressions if the person has a pulse. Performing chest compressions on someone who has a pulse can cause damage to the heart or other organs. Always check for a pulse before starting compressions. 3. Don’t interrupt compressions for more than 10 seconds. Every interruption, such as checking for pulse or giving breaths, should be as brief as possible. Prolonged pauses in chest compressions can reduce the effectiveness of CPR and decrease survival chances. 4. Don’t forget to position your hands properly for compressions. Place your hands on the lower half of the breastbone, ensuring the heel of your hand is centered and your fingers are not pressing on the ribs, which can lead to fractures. 5. Don’t attempt to administer CPR if the scene is unsafe. Ensure the environment is secure before providing CPR. Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice or training. Kindly consult a qualified medical expert for personalised guidance.
26 November,2024 08:36 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIt is impossible to imagine our lives without milk. The dairy product has been an important part of our diet since the time most of us are children. In fact, most children are even advised to drink it every day because of its many benefits. But is it important to drink milk as adults? Health experts say it is, more than you know. Every year, National Milk Day is observed on November 26 in India. It marks the birth anniversary of Dr Verghese Kurien, who is regarded as the 'Father of Milk Revolution' in the country because of his role in revolutionising India's dairy industry. As milk continues to be an important part of our lives, mid-day.com spoke to Jinal Patel, dietitian, Zynova Shalby Hospital Mumbai, Pratiksha Kadam, consultant, Dietitian, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Navi Mumbai as well as Swarn Singh, director – R&D at Kellanova South Asia to understand why it is important for adults to consume it. They not only stress on the benefits but also remind how it can be consumed in different ways to make it palatable. What are the components of milk that make drinking it very important?Patel: Caesin is the protein found in milk and is a vital component for body building and calcium though in less amounts but good for bone health. Singh: Milk is a powerhouse of essential nutrients, offering a balanced mix of calcium for strong bones, high-quality protein for muscle repair and growth, vitamin D for calcium absorption, and B vitamins helps release energy. Despite its benefits, many adults find it unappealing to consume milk on its own. However, pairing it with crunchy ready to eat cereals creates a wholesome and delicious meal that delivers energy, dietary fiber, and additional nutrients from whole grains—making it an ideal way to enjoy milk’s health benefits. While children are encouraged to drink milk, should adults continue to drink milk in their later years?Patel: To improve quality of protein for vegetarians, milk and cereal go well and improve the bioavailability of protein and make them first class protein. Kadam: Yes, milk remains an essential part of the diet for adults and older individuals. As we age, the body’s ability to absorb calcium decreases, making milk a valuable source to maintain bone density and prevent conditions like osteoporosis. Combined with cereals, milk provides a balanced meal that is not only nutrient-rich but also convenient, making it easy to maintain a healthy lifestyle at any age. How can adults consume milk daily in different forms?Patel: Adults can consume milk twice a day and that is good enough. It can be added in morning and evening with cereals or turmeric. Singh: Milk can be seamlessly incorporated into daily diets in creative ways:Beverages: Use milk in Butter milk , lassi , coffee, tea, or smoothies, or milkshakesBreakfast: Combine milk with cereals, oats, granola or muesli for a nutrient-packed start to the dayMeal: Enjoy milk-based products like curd /yoghurt and paneer/cheese. Cooking: Use milk in preparing desserts like kheer , phirni, soups , curries, or baked dishes like puddings and pasta saucesBreakfast with fortified milk and ready to eat cereal can be an excellent way to start your power pack day. This not only provide good nutrition to support your physical growth it also support our mental wellbeing and immune system. Do the needs and consumption of milk change with age and gender? If yes, how does it happen?Patel: No, the needs do not change with age and gender. Singh: Yes, milk consumption needs vary with age and gender: Children and adolescents: Require milk with cereals for growth and bone development, and cereals add energy , fiber , vitamins and minerals to their diet.Adults: Use milk to maintain bone health and muscle mass, while cereals contribute with fiber to digestive health and energy.Pregnant and lactating women: Need higher calcium and vitamin D from milk, complemented by the iron and fiber from fortified cerealsOlder adults: Benefit from milk support muscle and bone health .Cereals rich in fibre , vitamin and minerals also support digestive health and provide energyThis dynamic partnership ensures nutrient requirements are met throughout different life stages. Who is the most vulnerable to milk-based deficiencies?Patel: While the age may different, the protein and calcium can be substituted with other forms of the same. Kadam: Populations most at risk include: Children who are picky eaters and might skip dairy Older adults who consume less milk due to lactose intolerance or dietary restrictions Women during pregnancy and post-menopause due to increased calcium and iron needs, which can be supported with milk. What are the common misconceptions about drinking milk?Patel: Some of the common misconceptions are as follows: Myth: Milk makes you fatFact: It depends on the type of milk you drink and how much amount of fat is present. In buffalo milk, fat percentage is more than cows, so we can remove the cream from cows milk to make it low-fat. Singh: Some misconceptions include:Myth: Milk is only for children.Fact: Adults and seniors also benefit greatly from milk’s nutrient profile, especially when paired with cereals for additional vitamins, minerals, and fibre Myth: Lactose intolerance means avoiding all milk products.Fact: Many lactose-intolerant individuals can enjoy lactose-free milk or fermented dairy like yoghurt Myth: Milk causes weight gainFact: When low fat milk/skim milk is consumed with portion-controlled cereals, milk supports a balanced diet without excessive calories Why are adults suffering from vitamin D deficiency? What are some of the symptoms of the deficiency?Patel: Adult have deficiency of Vitamin D due to less exposure to the sun. Kadam: Modern lifestyles, including limited sun exposure and dietary inadequacies, contribute to vitamin D deficiency in adults. Symptoms include fatigue, muscle weakness, joint pain, and frequent illnesses. Fortified milk, enriched with vitamins and minerals, provides a dual source of nutrition to combat this deficiency effectively. With more people and 30-something adults suffering from a deficiency of Vitamin D, can milk help supplement it?Kadam: Yes, fortified milk is an excellent source of vitamin D and provides a convenient way to combat deficiencies. Delivering essential nutrients to support bone health and immune function while also providing sustained energy and fiber. With so many different types of milk, how does nut/vegan milk fare in comparison to cow, buffalo, or other animal-based milk?Kadam: Nut and plant-based milk are great alternatives for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. However, they differ in nutrient content:Cow/Buffalo Milk: Naturally rich in protein, calcium, and vitaminsNut/Vegan Milk: Often fortified to match the nutritional value of animal milk but may lack natural protein or certain nutrients. Combining fortified plant-based milk with whole-grain cereals can help bridge nutritional gaps. Choosing the right type depends on individual dietary needs, ensuring fortified options are selected when necessary. When should people consult a doctor or nutritionist to understand the importance of milk in their diet?Patel: People should consult a health expert in case of any indigestion due to milk or any specific amino acid deficiency. Kadam: Consultation is advised when: Experiencing symptoms of nutrient deficiencies like fatigue or weak bones Managing dietary restrictions due to lactose intolerance or allergies Planning diets for special needs, like pregnancy or aging Milk is a simple yet effective way to ensure balanced nutrition, but professional guidance ensures tailored plans that meet individual health goals optimally.
26 November,2024 06:37 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoAccording to the World Health Organization, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide, causing 3.5 million deaths in 2021. One common symptom and effect of COPD is difficulty in breathing. Certain kinds of exercises are not advisable in this situation. However, with the right exercise routine, individuals can improve lung function, strengthen muscles and enhance overall quality of life. In a conversation with mid-day.com, Dr Sarat Behera, Sr Consultant, Critical Care and Pulmonologist, Manipal Hospital, Bhubaneshwar, shares effective exercises that can help improve the condition. Breathing exercises within tolerance: Practice breath control to maximise oxygen absorption and minimise dyspnea. Breath control techniques such as abdominal breath and pursed-lip breath are capable enough to reduce the impact of dry breath and enhance lung capacity. Yoga and pranayama: Yoga, in particular pranayama (breathing workouts), can be beneficial for people with COPD. It can help lower blood pressure, expand the lungs and induce calmness. Muscle tightening exercises: A strategy to improve strength and endurance involves tightness/relaxation of the muscles in arms, legs, and torso. The exercises help blood flow and relieve fatigue causing better movement. Aerobic exercise (moderate intensity): Things like walking, cycling and dancing help the heart and lungs. Aerobic exercise performed regularly is good for the heart and people with COPD and increases general endurance. Resistance training: Resistance training is also valuable, as weights and bands help to strengthen muscles critical for breathing and posture, both vital components of function with COPD. Guidelines for people with COPD While certain exercises can help improve COPD, one should keep the following guidelines in mind, according to Dr Behera. Avoid intense or prolonged breathing effort: Do not do anything that troubles you breathing or any exercise that puts a lot of stress on lungs. Make sure to listen to your body and pull back if anything feels uncomfortable. Maintain a healthy weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can ease the burden on lungs and heart. Obesity aggravates the respiratory distress whereas good weight ensures better functioning of lungs. Also Read: Air pollution behind surging lung cancer in non-smokers in India: Experts Working out for 30 to 40 minutes four times a week is advisable. Additionally, Dr Behera recommends, “Avoid exposure to dust and pollutants that can trigger COPD symptoms by opting for outdoor spaces like parks or open areas. Regular exercise, when done safely, can really improve your quality of life and control over the COPD.” Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only. Consult a qualified medical expert for personalised guidance.
25 November,2024 07:49 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAfter facing severe backlash from oncologists across the country for claiming diet can cure cancer, former cricketer and Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu on Monday informed that his wife underwent surgeries, chemotherapy, hormonal and targeted therapy, along with a strict diet plan inspired by ancient Indian Ayurveda to fight cancer. Sidhu had in a recent press conference in Amritsar, Punjab, Sidhu described his wife, Navjot Kaur's treatment for her stage 4 breast cancer as "starving cancer by not eating dairy products and sugar". In the widely circulated video on social media, Sidhu said that his wife “consumed haldi (turmeric) and neem which helped cure her ‘incurable’ cancer. Following this, several oncologists, including from Tata Memorial Hospital and AIIMS, Delhi slammed Sidhu for spreading misinformation and stated that there is no scientific evidence to prove it. They also pointed out Kaur’s previous chemotherapy sessions. “My wife's cancer journey involved surgeries, chemotherapy, hormonal and targeted therapy, positivity and determination to fight cancer which was facilitated by a strict diet plan inspired by ancient Indian Ayurveda, the noble prize winning research of Yoshinori Ohsumi for 'discoveries of the mechanisms for autophagy' and observations of eminent doctors worldwide,” Sidhu shared in a post on X. Diet Plan pic.twitter.com/BGmJfSMoo3 — Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) November 25, 2024 He also shared the detailed diet plan, which included alkaline water, a concoction comprising cardamom, holy basil, (tulsi), mint, ginger, and cinnamon, intermittent fasting, a concoction of turmeric, lemon water, and neem leaves, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. It included juice of ash gourd, oranges, a concoction of either Soursop Leaves (Hanuman Phal) or Night jasmine (Harsingar), and a salad containing tomato, spinach, mushroom, carrot, onion, and more. The diet plan also had pulses and legumes and complete avoidance of "any form of refined carbs, refined sugar, refined oils, milk products, and any kind of packed food containing preservatives; and aerated drinks". All food cooked for Kaur was made in "cold-pressed coconut oil, mustard oil, or olive oil". She also consumed quinoa rotis, homemade almond milk, coconut milk, or coconut curd. In addition, Kaur followed regular exercise in the form of walking, and yoga. Doctors noted that “neem and turmeric may have potential health benefits, but there is no scientific evidence that they can cure cancer”. They urged for integrating diet as a complementary approach rather than a standalone solution. Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified medical expert for personalised guidance. Also Read: 'No single magic formula for cancer,' say oncologists slamming Navjot Singh Sidhu's recent claims on wife's treatment 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 November,2024 04:42 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSThe decision by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to ban the use of some antibiotics in animal food products will help curb the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), according to a new report. In October, the FSSAI banned the use of some antibiotics used in the production of meat, meat products, milk, milk products, poultry, eggs, and aquaculture. The ban in usage of antibiotics will enhance the quality of livestock farming in India. This regulatory decision is a crucial move to safeguard public health and curb the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which renders certain bacterial infections increasingly difficult to treat with standard medications among consumers, said GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company. “Being one of the major producers and exporters of milk, eggs, fish, and poultry meat, India needs to regulate the use of antibiotics during livestock farming and production in order to sustain itself in the global market,” said Susmitha Bynagari, consumer analyst at GlobalData. Also, the country needs to keep a constant check on the usage of antibiotics in animal production to maintain the quality of the products that are exported. “This ban on the usage of antibiotics in feed using for meat and poultry is also implemented in countries like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore,” Bynagari added. India has also committed to reduce the usage of antimicrobials used in animal production by 30-50 per cent by 2030. Indian consumers also prefer healthy products, which is bolstered by a recent GlobalData survey, where 73 per cent of the Indian respondents said that well-being always or often influences while purchasing food and beverage products. This shift in consumer behaviour is driving demand for more sustainable and safer food products, said the report. “To effectively tackle the issue of AMR, the FSSAI must ensure that the ban on these usage of on antibiotics in animal production is strictly implemented across the country,” said Francis Gabriel Godad, Consumer Business Development Manager at GlobalData. A grassroots approach will be critical to achieving long-term success in reducing antibiotic use in agriculture and ultimately protecting public health, he 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.
25 November,2024 01:25 PM IST | New DelhiChemotherapy, surgery, or radiation forms the backbone of the treatment against cancer and there is no single magic formula against the disease, said oncologists on Monday while slamming former cricketer and Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu’s recent claims of his wife being cured of the deadly disease via diet. The oncologists slammed Sidhu, a former Member of the Rajya Sabha, for “creating sensationalism” and misguiding people. In a recent press conference in Amritsar, Punjab, Sidhu described his wife, Navjot Kaur's treatment for her breast cancer as "starving cancer by not eating dairy products and sugar". In the widely circulated video on social media, Sidhu said that his wife “consumed haldi (turmeric) and neem which helped cure her ‘incurable’ cancer. Also Read: 'Unproven remedies': Tata Memorial Hospital slams Navjot Singh Sidhu’s viral ‘diet cure’ cancer claim “Cancer is not one disease, treated by a single magic formula. The treatment strategy is based on the subtype of cancer, specific genetic changes in the particular cancer cells, organ of origin, extent of spread of disease at the time of diagnosis and host of factors,” Dr. Harit Chaturvedi, Chairman - Max Institute of Cancer Care, told IANS. “The treatment of cancer is because of either chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. This forms the backbone of the treatment. The other adjuncts, like the diet control or diet rearrangements or the natural ingredients, cannot replace the treatment,” added Dr. Pritam Kataria, Consultant, Medical Oncology, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital. In the press conference, Sidhu revealed that his wife was given a 5 per cent chance to survive. However, she overcame stage 4 cancer following a simple dietary and lifestyle regimen. After Sidhu’s viral video, oncologists claimed that he had done major harm to society by misguiding people over the disease which claims more than 9 lakh lives annually in India. Notably, Sidhu had in June tweeted about Kaur successfully undergoing chemotherapy sessions under “Dr.Rupinder Batra (Former Tata Memorial Oncologist) at Waryam Singh Hospital, Yamunanagar”. In an open letter, posted on LinkedIn, Dr. Abhishek Shankar, Assistant Professor, Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr BR Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital at AIIMS, Delhi called out the former cricketer for spreading misinformation. “We expect a lot from a public figure like you when it comes to overcoming the myth among the general population to boost cancer care in India. Despite the best efforts, more than 9 lakh people are dying from cancer every year in India, and the reason for many deaths is misinformation,” Shankar said. “The general public might lose the best opportunities to get cured by just adopting your advice seriously,” Shankar said. He noted that “neem and turmeric may have potential health benefits, but there is no scientific evidence that they can cure cancer”. “The idea that ‘sugar feeds cancer’ oversimplifies how the body and cancer cells use energy. Eliminating sugar from the diet will not starve cancer cells but may lead to nutritional imbalances and that may be fatal for cancer patients. A balanced diet is crucial for maintaining strength and supporting treatment outcomes and may contain sugar and dairy products,” he added in the letter. Many other oncologists claimed that Sidhu’s video promoting home remedies for cancer has done “long-term harm to society”. With the video going viral in WhatsApp groups, more people are likely to choose home remedies over proper cancer treatment, resulting in countless preventable deaths. “Claims of curing cancer through diet alone lack scientific validation. Treatment plans should integrate diet as a complementary approach rather than a standalone solution, tailored to the individual’s cancer type and overall condition,” Dr. Mandeep Singh Malhotra, Director of Surgical Oncology at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, told IANS. “We appeal to the people not to get misguided by such stories that lack scientific and data scrutiny. Such anecdotes are generally not shared with honesty for any good but are shared to create sensationalism,” Chaturvedi said. Also Read: ‘It was shocking’: How to manage being a family caregiver for a cancer patient 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 November,2024 01:09 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSWorld Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) is observed annually from November 18 to 24 to raise awareness about Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and prevent its spread. Many people, when experiencing minor ailments like a cough, sore throat, or fever, often rush to pharmacies to purchase antibiotics without consulting a doctor. Moreover, they discontinue the antibiotics after one or two doses instead of completing the prescribed course. Such practices contribute to AMR, where antibiotics lose their ability to effectively treat infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. This condition makes infections harder to treat and poses significant public health risks. Dr Arcy Billoria, Microbiologist at Aster Prime Hospital, explained the risks associated with antibiotic misuse and offered essential guidance to combat AMR. AMR leads to prolonged infections, increased mortality rates, and the spread of multidrug-resistant organisms or "superbugs." The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified AMR as one of the top 10 global health threats. According to the Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (GRAM), AMR causes approximately 1 million deaths annually and could result in 39 million deaths by 2050 if left unaddressed. One of the leading causes of AMR is the misuse of antibiotics. Many people take antibiotics without a prescription, discontinue them prematurely, or use leftover medication. Billoria emphasised that such behaviour must stop. Antibiotics should be used only under a doctor’s guidance, in the prescribed dosage, and for the recommended duration. She suggested people to stop practices like demanding antibiotics from doctors unnecessarily, taking antibiotics prescribed for others and using leftover or expired antibiotics. Runny noses, sore throats, and diarrhoea are typically caused by viruses and do not require antibiotics. Antibiotics work against bacteria, not viruses. Using them unnecessarily can disturb the body’s natural bacterial balance and lead to resistance. Vaccination can prevent bacterial infections, reducing the need for antibiotics. Ensuring good hygiene practices like regular handwashing and covering the mouth while coughing or sneezing can also prevent infections. Dr Billoria urged everyone to use antibiotics responsibly to preserve their effectiveness for future generations and avoid a health crisis caused by resistant infections.
25 November,2024 12:59 PM IST | Hyderabad | IANSAmid poor air quality in the national capital, doctors on Friday warned that the air pollutants, besides causing respiratory and cardiovascular issues, can also lead to weight gain, contribute to rising obesity rates, and also affect hormonal health. The air quality in Delhi-NCR on Friday morning was reported to be in the ‘very poor’ category with a thin layer of smog engulfing the region. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi's average air quality index (AQI) at 7.15 a.m. remained at 371. In seven areas of Delhi, the AQI level remained above 400 and between 450. The AQI was 410 in Anand Vihar, 411 in Bawana, 426 in Jahangirpuri, 402 in Mundka, 410 in Nehru Nagar, 402 in Shadipur, and 413 in Wazirpur. “Air pollution can affect weight gain by altering metabolism and can also affect hormonal health. Air pollution causes metabolic disorders that can lead to weight gain. It can also cause inflammation which leads to obesity,” Dr. Shailly Sharma, Senior Consultant and Associate Director, Obstetrician and gynaecologist, at Cloudnine Hospital, said. “Air pollution can precipitate sedentary behaviour because it can cause certain respiratory symptoms like coughing, and shortness of breath, which can restrict physical activity and precipitate weight gain. It also increases insulin resistance, leading to weight gain and obesity,” Sharma said. Recent studies show that prolonged exposure to air pollution which contains particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide, could lead to systemic inflammation and metabolic disturbances -- key in weight gain and obesity. A meta-analysis published in BMC Public Health in July found that air pollution can impact metabolic function by influencing inflammation in fat tissue, increasing oxidative stress, and altering individual dietary habits. Breathing toxic air affects immune function and breathing pathways. This raises inflammation markers and increases oxidative stress. Dr. Vikas Mittal, Pulmonologist and director, Department of Respiratory Medicine, CK Birla Hospital told IANS that while there have been reports about air pollution affecting metabolism, leading to metabolic syndrome and obesity, the exact mechanism by which air pollution affects metabolism and hormonal health is not known. “It could be because air pollution is an irritant and it can cause inflammation in the airways, and then leads to the secretion of inflammatory markers in the body and blood, which then affects various organs, and thus can lead to increase the change in the hormonal milieu and increase in the pro-inflammatory markers. This can lead to worsening of cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes -- an important part of anybody having metabolic syndrome,” the doctor explained. Studies have shown that long-term exposure to the pollutants in the air can disrupt hormones, causing imbalance and also leading to reduced conception rates and overall fertility. 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 November,2024 02:32 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSADVERTISEMENT
