Lung cancer is significantly on the rise among non-smokers in India, and air pollution is a major contributing factor, said experts amid the continued poor air quality in the national capital. After eight days of severe air pollution, Delhi on Thursday saw slightly improved air quality. At 7 am, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 379, placing the city in the “very poor” category. “While traditional risk factors for lung cancer include smoking cigarettes, pipes, or cigars, exposure to secondhand smoke, radon, air pollution, asbestos, and family history are the major reasons for lung cancer in non-smokers. Long-term exposure to particulate matter can trigger mutations in lung cells, leading to uncontrolled cell growth,” said Dr. Ashish Gupta, Chief of Medical Oncology, at Unique Hospital Cancer Centre, said. A recent study published in the Lancet's eClinical Medicine Journal showed that most lung cancer patients in India are non-smokers. It is due to increased exposure to air pollution. It also showed that lung cancer cases are also manifesting in India about 10 years earlier as compared to Western countries. “The rising levels of air pollution in India have become a significant contributor to the increasing cases of lung cancer. Prolonged exposure to pollutants like PM2.5 and toxic gases damages lung tissue and raises cancer risk,” Dr. Rahul Bhargava, Principal Director of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, told IANS. Importantly, Gupta said that lung cancer in non-smokers is often different from lung cancer in smokers. It usually remains asymptomatic, meaning there are no initial symptoms, leading to late detection. “The most common type of lung cancer in non-smokers is adenocarcinoma, which usually starts in the outer areas of the lungs,” the doctor said. Despite the slight improvement seen in Delhi, several air monitoring stations across the national capital still recorded AQI levels above 400, which is categorised as “severe”, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The agency said that Jahangirpuri and Wazirpur saw the highest readings at 437, Bawana at 419, and Ashok Vihar and Mundka registered 416. The rising air pollution has also spiked several respiratory disorders like asthma and Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the capital. “The number of patients reporting breathing problems has risen by approximately 20 per cent compared to last month, with most cases involving individuals with preexisting respiratory conditions exacerbated by pollution-induced inflammation,” Dr. Harsh Mahajan, Chair of FICCI-Health and Services, told IANS. He noted that while X-rays often appear normal, complications can arise if bacterial or viral infections coexist. Children, with their underdeveloped immune systems, are especially vulnerable to persistent conditions like asthma and allergies. To avoid further deterioration of health, the experts urged the need to adopt preventive measures, such as wearing N95 masks, limiting outdoor activity as much as possible, and using home air purifiers to improve indoor air quality. They also advised people to closely monitor their health, look for symptoms like breathlessness, persistent cough, or chest pain, and seek immediate medical assistance, if necessary. Adopting a well-balanced diet that is rich in antioxidants and maintaining proper hydration is also important to boost the immune system and shield oneself from the long-term health impacts of air pollution. 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 November,2024 11:00 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSEven as the national capital continues to battle poor air quality, experts on Wednesday said that the toxic pollutants are raising dry eyes, irritations, and allergies in the eyes of children and adults. On Wednesday morning, Delhi’s air quality remained in the “severe” category with the average Air Quality Index (AQI) at 427 at 10 am, making it the most polluted city in India, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. “Pollution poses a serious threat to our eyes, particularly to the conjunctiva and the cornea, which is the first point of contact with harmful particles in the air. The fine particulate matter, allergens, and toxins in polluted environments can irritate the ocular surface and make it highly susceptible to infections,” Dr. Rohit Saxena, professor of ophthalmology, R P Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, AIIMS New Delhi, told IANS. “This is especially of concern in children and adults already experiencing dry eyes or allergic reactions, as these conditions worsen with exposure to poor air quality,” he added. On Wednesday morning, about 12 out of 38 air quality monitoring stations in Delhi reported an AQI of 450 or above. Environment Minister Gopal Rai has directed the Delhi government to grant half of the staff to work from home. A recent study by researchers from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus showed that people living in areas with increased exposure to PM10 can be twice more at risk of suffering eye infections. The study showed that clinical visits by patients suffering ocular surface eye conditions -- that affect the eye surface, including the cornea, conjunctiva, and eyelids -- more than doubled when ambient particulate matter from air pollution was in the atmosphere. Air pollution can significantly affect eye health causing discomfort and irritation. The polluted air carries suspended particles, dust, and pollutants which can irritate the eyes. Saxena noted that frequent eye rubbing of the irritated eyes can weaken the cornea over time and lead to conditions like keratoconus -- an eye condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone shape, which can lead to vision loss. Common symptoms include itching, watering, burning, redness, and a general feeling of soreness. “In severe cases, air pollution may lead to pain or blurred vision, requiring immediate medical attention,” Dr. Smriti Goel, Consultant - Eye Surgery, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj, told IANS. The doctor suggested avoiding over-the-counter medications other than lubricating eye drops unless prescribed by a doctor. "Use lubricating drops to maintain moisture, and apply cold compresses to relieve irritation. Wear protective glasses or sunglasses to shield your eyes from dust and pollutants. For allergy-prone individuals, anti-allergic eye drops and timely treatment are essential. These measures can help safeguard your eyes from pollution-related issues,” Goel said. Pollution isn’t just a respiratory issue -- it has harmful effects on the entire body including on the ocular health, the experts said recommending people to limit outdoor exposure during peak periods of pollution. Also Read: Air pollution raising risk of asthma, lung cancer among children: Experts 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
20 November,2024 03:40 PM IST | Delhi | IANSDoctors at a Mumbai hospital gave a new lease of life to a Vasaikar recently after conducting a high-risk surgery. A team led by Dr Anup Taksande, consultant interventional cardiologist at Wockhardt Hospitals in Mira Road, carried out the pioneering Cardiac Intervention (CHIP) PCI to address complex heart blockages, saving the life of a 69-year-old lady to ensure she gains a new lease of life. Tracilla Alphonso, a resident of Vasai with comorbidities like hypertension experienced pain and discomfort in the chest and around her neck in mid-September. The Mumbaikar got her ECG done from a local hospital, and her ECG revealed Ischemic changes and urgent angiography was performed. An angiography revealed critical calcific left main narrowing and near total occlusion of the Right Coronary Artery. After which, she was advised to undergo an urgent Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) given the angiography picture. It was later discussed that the option of extremely complex high-risk angioplasty to the Left Main and Right Coronary Artery (RCA) with imaging guidance and Rotablation for cutting the calcium when the patient came for a consultation to Dr Anup. He said, “On arrival in an emergency at Wockhardt Hospitals in Mira Road, the patient had severe discomfort for 2-3 days before coming to the hospital. This was a truly complex case, with the left main coronary artery being more than 90 per cent blocked and the right coronary artery being over 99 per cent occluded. The cardiovascular disease burden in our country is increasing because of factors such as sedentary lifestyle choices, stress, and genetic predispositions. The patient was initially recommended for an urgent coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery due to the critical nature of her condition. However, the patient and her family were reluctant to undergo open-heart surgery due to her advanced age and frail health. We decided to proceed with a high-risk, unprotected left main pioneering cardiac intervention (PCI), a procedure that is typically considered extremely complex. We utilized advanced imaging techniques and specialized tools, including Rotablation and high-pressure balloons, to meticulously navigate the severely calcified and narrowed coronary arteries.” Dr Anup added, “Performing a successful PCI in such a scenario requires exceptional skill, advanced technology, and a well-equipped medical setup, all of which were available at our Hospital. The procedure was carried out step-by-step, with the team first addressing the right coronary artery blockage and then moving on to the left main artery. Imaging catheters and precise stent placement allowed us to achieve results comparable to those of bypass surgery, all while ensuring the patient's hemodynamic stability throughout the procedure." He continues, "We started with the right coronary artery which we stented after lot of pre-dilatation with balloons and making adequate lumen, we did two stents again, added at very high pressures which showed a satisfactory result. After the right coronary artery was fixed properly, we started working on the left main coronary artery. The left main was extremely severely narrowed and calcific, and since 60 to 70 per cent of the circulation depended on the Left main, any small mistake would mean that the patient would crash on the table. After doing the wiring Rotablation (Diamond Drill) was used to cut and polish the calcium on the Left Main and LAD. Subsequently using high pressure (OPN-NC) Balloon, we were able to achieve a satisfactory flow. The iOS imaging catheter helped us understand the length of the stents, the size of the stents, and the number of stents that we would use. In this case, we used two, overlapping stents in the LAD and the Left main, which were of different sizes and diameters, and they were optimized at high pressures to different diameters, which confirmed the vessel wall sizing. The patient tolerated the procedure well. The entire procedure lasted for approx. 90 mins– 110 minutes." The patient had an uneventful recovery and was discharged in two days. After two months of follow-ups, she is fine and independent with normal heart pumping. This case highlights the importance of having a comprehensive, tertiary-level cardiac care facility that can offer cutting-edge treatments for even the most complex and high-risk cases. “The successful outcome of this procedure underscores the advancements in Interventional Cardiology and the dedication of the medical team to provide exceptional, life-saving care to their patients. Wockhardt Hospital in Mira Road is a leading tertiary care hospital known for its excellence in cardiac care. Our hospital is well-equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and a team of highly skilled and experienced cardiologists, who are committed to providing innovative and comprehensive treatment options to their patients,” highlighted Dr Anup. “After struggling with chest pain and discomfort that suggested a heart attack, I was hesitant about having a CABG. Dr. Anup Taksande and his team carried out the essential minimally invasive angioplasty that greatly enhanced my quality of life. I felt elated as I returned to my daily activities without any difficulties. I am grateful to Dr. Taksande and his team for providing me with another chance at life,” concluded Tracilla.
19 November,2024 02:06 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA dedicated team at AIIMS Bhubaneswar has saved the life of a 24-year-old Army jawan through an advanced Extracorporeal Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (eCPR) procedure. The eCPR procedure revived the young soldier even after his heart had stopped beating for nearly 1.5 hours. The Executive Director of AIIMS Bhubaneswar, Dr Ashutosh Biswas, praised the team's exceptional efforts, stating, "AIIMS Bhubaneswar has always been at the forefront of integrating medical science with technology to deliver pioneering healthcare. This is a testament to our dedication to saving lives and advancing medical practices." The patient, in critical condition due to heart failure, was referred to AIIMS Bhubaneswar on October 1. Shortly after his arrival, he suffered a cardiac arrest. Despite 40 minutes of conventional CPR, no cardiac activity was detected, presenting a critical decision: to declare death or attempt the cutting-edge eCPR procedure. Led by Dr Srikant Behera, Intensivist and Adult ECMO specialist, the team initiated Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) 80 minutes after the cardiac arrest. Following 40 minutes of eCPR, the patient's heart finally resumed beating, albeit irregularly. Over the next 30 hours, his heart function improved significantly, and he was successfully weaned off ECMO after 96 hours. The multidisciplinary team also managed several other life-threatening complications, demonstrating remarkable expertise, coordination, and dedication. The survivor's mother expressed her heartfelt gratitude, saying, "I cannot thank AIIMS Bhubaneswar enough for giving my son a second chance at life. Their skill, compassion, and determination have worked a miracle for our family." Speaking about the procedure, Dr Srikant Behera emphasised, "eCPR, while technically challenging, represents a promising advancement in the treatment of cardiac arrests traditionally deemed fatal. This success marks a milestone in Odisha's medical history." The extraordinary effort involved a multidisciplinary team, including Dr Krishna Mohan Gulla, Dr Sandip Kumar Panda, Dr Siddharth Sathia, Dr Sangeeta Sahoo, Dr Manas R. Panigrahi, and healthcare providers from various specialties such as MICU and nursing officers. The Medical Superintendent, Dr Dillip Kumar Parida, congratulated the team on this innovative accomplishment. 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.
19 November,2024 11:48 AM IST | Bhubaneshwar | ANIOral contraceptives do not increase the blood pressure response in women during large muscle exercise (like cycling or running), according to a study on Monday led by researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras. Oral contraceptives or birth control pills are taken by women to prevent pregnancy and reduce acne, menstrual cramps, and the risk of ovarian cysts. Although certain oral contraceptives are known to raise resting blood pressure, the exercise blood pressure response during intense exercises is not currently well understood. In addition, research has been ambiguous on whether hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle influence blood pressure. The researchers, including from the University of Minnesota, US, found that both oral contraceptive use and general fluctuations in endogenous ovarian hormone (like estrogens) in young women (20-25 years of age), did not influence blood pressure. The results were similar with lower body exercise and activation of skeletal muscle sensory neurons -- known to contribute to exaggerated blood pressure responses in people with cardiovascular diseases. “The findings of this study have wide application and are important as it sheds light on the influence of oral contraceptives on blood pressure response to exercise in women,” said Dr. Ninitha A.J., Assistant Professor, Department of Biotechnology, IIT Madras. Exercise can acutely increase blood pressure due to increased sympathetic nerve activity (fight or flight) from skeletal muscle sensory neurons known as ‘Exercise Pressor Reflex’ (EPR). The EPR results in an increase in blood flow from the heart to the skeletal muscle to meet the needs of the muscle. The EPR is known to be greater in males compared with premenopausal females and is also known to be exaggerated in people with cardiovascular disease. Estrogens are cardioprotective, they reduce sympathetic activity and increase blood flow to the skeletal muscle via nitric oxide bioavailability. Thus, the researchers expected that during the ovulation phase of their menstrual cycle, when oestradiol peaks, women would have the lowest EPR compared with females during the early follicular phase (where oestradiol is the lowest) and with oral contraceptive use, which also results in low serum oestradiol levels. However, the researchers demonstrated that regardless of the phase of the menstrual cycle or oral contraceptive use, the EPR was similar in the women. This suggests that oral contraceptives do not increase the blood pressure response in women more so than in those who do not use oral contraceptives, revealed the findings, published in the reputed peer-reviewed journal American Journal of Physiology-Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology. “The next step of this work is to determine if the EPR is a contributing factor to the cardiovascular risk in menopausal females,” said Dr. Manda Keller Ross, Assistant Professor at the University of Minnesota. 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.
18 November,2024 12:41 PM IST | Chennai | IANSAmid record year for dengue infections globally, a new study has found that climate change is responsible for 19 per cent of rising dengue burden. Climate change has the potential to spark an additional 40-60 per cent spike by 2050 — and by as much as 150-200 per cent in some areas — according to a new study presented at the annual meeting of the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (ASTMH) in the US. India has also seen a surge in dengue cases this year. The latest findings from researchers at Stanford and Harvard Universities offer the most definitive evidence to date that climate change is a big factor driving a global surge in the mosquito-borne disease. Countries in the Americas alone have recorded almost 12 million cases in 2024 compared to 4.6 million in 2023, and locally acquired infections have been reported in California and Florida. The study also carries warnings of even sharper increases to come. “We looked at data on dengue incidence and climate variation across 21 countries in Asia and the Americas and found that there is a clear and direct relationship between rising temperatures and rising infections,” said Erin Mordecai, an infectious disease ecologist at Stanford’s Woods Institute for the Environment. It’s evidence that climate change already has become a significant threat to human health and, for dengue in particular, our data suggests the impact could get much worse, Mordecai added. While some dengue infections produce only mild symptoms, others cause excruciating joint pain (earning dengue the nickname “breakbone fever”), and severe cases can lead to bleeding complications and shock. There are no drugs to treat the disease and while there are two licensed dengue vaccines available, some dengue experts have pointed to challenges with both that could limit widespread adoption. The study finds that amid dengue’s growing threat, moderating global warming by reducing emissions would also moderate climate impacts on dengue infections. The analysis shows that with sharp cuts in emissions, areas now on track to experience a 60 per cent increase would instead see about a 40 per cent rise in dengue infections between now and 2050. However, with global climate models predicting that temperatures will continue to increase even with large reductions in emissions, the researchers found that 17 of the 21 countries studied still would see climate-driven increases in dengue even under the most optimistic scenarios for carbon cuts. Mordecai said that dengue-endemic areas that are just now entering that 20 to 29 degree celsius sweet-spot for virus transmission — parts of Peru, Mexico, Bolivia and Brazil — could face the biggest future risks, with infections over the next few decades rising 150 per cent to 200 per cent. Also Read: Air pollution spikes inflammation in patients with heart disease: 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
18 November,2024 12:37 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSPatients with heart disease, specifically those with heart failure, are especially vulnerable to the impacts of air pollution and poor air quality and can take steps to protect themselves, a new study has said. Results from the Intermountain Health study, presented at the American Heart Association’s 2024 Scientific Sessions international conference in Chicago, found that two inflammatory markers — CCL27 (C-C motif chemokine ligand 27) and IL-18 (interleukin 18) — were elevated in heart failure patients who were exposed to poor air quality, but did not change in those without heart disease. While previous research has shown that people with some chronic health conditions, like heart failure, coronary disease, asthma, and COPD, struggle during spikes in air pollution, the new study demonstrates that cardiac inflammation levels specifically rise in people with heart disease during periods of poor air quality. “These biomarkers rose in response to air pollution in people who already had heart disease, but not in patients who were heart disease free, showing that heart failure patients are not as able to adapt to changes in the environment,” said Benjamin Horne, principal investigator of the study and professor of research at Intermountain Health. Researchers specifically looked at blood tests for 115 different proteins that are signs of increased inflammation in the body. These spikes were caused by either wildfire smoke in the summer, or during a winter inversion, where air pollution is trapped when warm air holds pollution closer to the ground. Researchers found that two inflammatory markers — CCL27 and IL-18 — were elevated in heart failure patients, but did not change in those without heart disease, indicating that such air pollution events put more strain on the bodies of patients who already have heart problems. These findings “give us some information about mechanisms in people with heart failure who are having inflammation and suggest they’re not as capable in responding to acute inflammation as people who are healthy,” said Dr Horne. Heart failure patients need to take extra precautions during times when air pollution is high. 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.
18 November,2024 12:27 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSLong-term exposure to air pollution may cause severe harm to the lung health of children and significantly raise the risk of lung cancer and respiratory diseases like asthma and bronchitis, warned experts on Friday, even as Delhi-NCR's air quality remained severely poor for the third consecutive day. On Friday morning, the National Capital's Air Quality Index (AQI) reached a severe level of 409, while the readings in neighbouring cities in Haryana and Uttar Pradesh were also above the 300 mark. To safeguard children, all primary schools in Delhi have been moved online, Chief Minister Atishi announced in a post on X. She said the online classes for primary school children will continue "until further directions". Children are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of air pollution, which can increase their long-term risk of developing lung cancer. “While lung cancer is rare in childhood, polluted air containing toxic particles like carbon compounds and heavy metals can damage the cells lining their respiratory tracts. This exposure often leads to chronic conditions like asthma and bronchitis, which are alarmingly common in urban areas,” Dr. Nithin SG, Consultant, Medical Oncology at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, told IANS. “Over time, repeated damage and inflammation from pollutants may set the stage for serious lung diseases, including cancer, as they age. Reducing pollution is crucial to safeguarding children’s health and minimising their future cancer risk,” he added. Air pollution no longer remains an environmental concern. It has now become a public health emergency impacting the whole country, majorly the north. The situation, which annually peaks from October to December, requires urgent attention. “The impact on future generations is significant, as a child exposed to high levels of pollution may inhale the equivalent of 10 cigarettes from their very first day of life,” Dr. Arvind Kumar, Chairman, Institute of Chest Surgery, Chest Onco Surgery and Lung Transplantation, Medanta Hospital, Gurugram told IANS. A recent study conducted by Lung Care Foundation, which performed spirometry tests in 3 Delhi schools covering over 3000 children, found that one-third of the children under the age group of 11-17 years were asthmatic, with air pollution identified as a significant risk factor. The doctor added that “there is a startling rise in respiratory issues around this time every year, but it’s crucial to note that pollution affects not only the lungs but all organs in the body”. The experts called for using preventive measures such as wearing face masks and limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution hours. "Public awareness is equally important, especially in rural areas where knowledge about lung health protection remains limited and there is a myth that rural areas are less polluted; we are now seeing an equal number of lung cancer cases come from villages and cities,” Kumar said. The experts also called for a focused national effort to control air pollution for the country's health. Also Read: Air pollution can cause digestive issues: 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
15 November,2024 02:15 PM IST | Delhi | IANSIf not managed on time, diabetes can prove to be silent killer for many. As World Diabetes Day was observed on November 14, a study found that the Covid-19 pandemic has not only reshaped daily routines but also accelerated trends in diabetes and metabolic health causing alarming changes in disease onset age, weight gain and associated complications such as liver and kidney issues. Dr. Rajiv Kovil's clinics in Mumbai conducted a comparative analysis of patient profiles pre-pandemic (March 24, 2016 - March 23, 2020) and post-pandemic (March 24, 2020 - March 23, 2024) revealing alarming changes in disease patterns. Dr. Rajiv Kovil, Head of Diabetology, Zandra Healthcare and Co-founder of Rang De Neela Initiative, said, “One of the most significant shifts has been in the age of type 2 diabetes onset. The average age dropped from 47 years pre-pandemic to 42 years post-pandemic, with a growing number of diagnoses now occurring in individuals in their late 20s and 30s. Weight gain among newly diagnosed has also surged, with average weights rising from 75 kg to 84 kg for men and from 61 kg to 69 kg for women. In particular, women have shown a concerning increase in body fat composition, with an average of 42 per cent compared to 36 per cent in men, largely driven by visceral fat—a key risk factor for metabolic complications.” “Post-pandemic, the majority of newly diagnosed diabetes cases exhibit complex metabolic disorders. Over 95 per cent of new patients have dyslipidemia, and hypertension at diagnosis has climbed to 30 per cent from the previous 19 per cent,” he revealed. “Indicators of chronic kidney disease, such as elevated uric acid and proteinuria, now affect 18 per cent of new patients, up from 12 per cent pre-pandemic,” he further highlighted. Lifestyle parameters highlight behavioural shifts that exacerbate these health issues. “Dietary recall among newly diagnosed patients shows a jump in the frequency of outside meals, from twice weekly pre-pandemic to six times weekly post-pandemic. Self-reported sleep duration has also dropped, from an average of 7.5 hours per night to 6.8 hours, suggesting an increase in stress and disrupted sleep patterns that can worsen diabetes risk factors. These findings emphasise the urgent need for public health interventions targeting lifestyle management and early metabolic screening to address the rising tide of diabetes and its complications in younger populations,” concluded Dr. Kovil. Further explaining how Covid-19 could have caused these changes, Dr. Aarti Ullal, Physician and Diabetologist, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, said, “Covid-19 infection may directly lead to new-onset diabetes in some patients, possibly due to the virus' effect on pancreatic cells. The pandemic also led to lifestyle changes for many people, including reduced physical activity due to lockdowns and gym closures, and increased consumption of sugary, oily and fried food leading to insulin resistance and weight gain raising the chances of diabetes. Increased stress levels, can affect blood sugar regulation. Many people postponed routine health check-ups during the pandemic, leading to delayed diabetes diagnoses. Some patients experiencing long Covid symptoms have shown signs of metabolic changes that could increase diabetes risk.” “It is the need of the hour for those with diabetes to eat a nutritious diet, exercise daily, check blood sugar levels take medication as recommended by the doctor, and maintain an optimum weight,” she added. Also Read: Consuming junk food while watching TV is increasing diabetes risk in children
15 November,2024 10:55 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentCannabis consumption can cause damage to our body's cells and increase the risk of highly cancerous tumours, according to a new study on Thursday. In the study, published in the scientific journal Addiction Biology, cannabis is described as a “genotoxic” substance because it damages a cell's genetic information. This can lead to DNA mutations, accelerated ageing, and cancer. Alarmingly, this genotoxicity can be passed on to the next generation via a damaged egg and sperm -- making the risk of cannabis use trans-generational, said the researchers from the University of Western Australia. In the study, the team also linked established knowledge that cannabis use damages cellular energy production by inhibiting mitochondria with recent cancer research showing that mitochondrial dysfunction drives chromosomal damage which can surge rates of cancer, accelerated ageing, and birth defects. “The link we’ve described between cannabis use and genotoxicity has far-reaching consequences. This new research shows how genetic damage from cannabis use can be passed down the generations,” said Dr. Stuart Reece from the varsity Cannabis has been known to be linked with both micronuclear development and mitochondrial inhibition for many decades. Both human and rodent studies show that adult cannabis exposure is linked with the incidence of autism and cerebral processing difficulties in children prenatally exposed. However, the study argued that cannabinoid genotoxicity has long been “overlooked”. The researchers noted that “it may, in fact, be all around us through the rapid induction of ageing of eggs, sperm, zygotes, foetus and adult organisms with many lines of evidence demonstrating transgenerational impacts”. Together, the data is clear and robust evidence for the transgenerational transmission of major genotoxic outcomes. In light of this, Reece called on policymakers to “reframe the discussion surrounding cannabis legalisation from a personal choice to one that potentially involves multiple subsequent generations.” 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
14 November,2024 03:20 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSAccording to the World Health Organization estimates, about 422 million people worldwide have diabetes, and 1.5 million deaths are directly attributed to diabetes each year. Even though diabetes can be treated and its consequences avoided or delayed with diet, physical activity, medication and regular screening and treatment for complications, the number of cases and the prevalence of diabetes have been steadily increasing over the past few decades. To bring awareness to this growing global concern, World Diabetes Day is observed around the globe on November 14 every year. Clinical research has shown that a significant number of diabetic patients suffered from sleep disorders. “Sleep apnoea is characterised by frequent episodes of involuntary pause in breathing during sleep. Studies found that moderate to severe sleep apnoea increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 30 to 50 per cent. If left untreated, sleep apnoea may increase fasting glucose and average blood glucose levels. In diabetic individuals sleep apnoea exacerbates diabetes-related complications and worsens overall health outcomes,” explains Dr. Praveen Kumar B.S, consultant of pulmonology, at Manipal Hospital. On World Diabetes Day, medical experts delve into the intricate connection between sleep disorders and the complexities of diabetes and highlight the criticality of sleep in diabetes management. They also share practical lifestyle modifications that can be adapted by individuals to enhance their quality of sleep to improve overall wellbeing. How do sleep disorders impact diabetes management? “Increasing evidence indicates that sleep disorders, particularly sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) such as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), hurt glycaemic control, complicating diabetes treatment and increasing the risk of complications,” shares Dr Harshitha Boyareddigari, consultant, diabetes and endocrinology at Manipal Hospital, Sarjapur. Below, he outlines how poor sleep impacts and may worsen diabetes management. Dysregulated insulin resistance Illnesses, such as sleep apnoea, that disrupt deep sleep interrupt glucose regulation. Sleep enhances insulin sensitivity, which helps to stabilise blood glucose However, frequent awakenings prevent us from reaching the deep, restorative sleep stages necessary for hormonal balance. This disruption makes our bodies less responsive to insulin, leading to higher blood sugar levels and making diabetes management more difficult for individuals with sleep apnoea. Increased stress hormones Sleep disturbances caused by SDB result in the overproduction of cortisol, a stress hormone that increases the levels of blood glucose. Cortisol stimulates the liver to release more glucose into the bloodstream, further elevating blood sugar levels. For diabetics, this extra sugar causes blood sugar to spike and makes control even more difficult. This creates a vicious cycle, as increased stress hormones further hinder insulin's effectiveness. High cortisol over a long time makes our insulin resistance poorer, so the blood glucose regulation does not work anymore properly. Altered appetite hormones Poor sleep unbalances the levels of leptin (the satiety hormone) and ghrelin (the hunger hormone), leading to more appetite and cravings, most commonly for high-energy foods. These foods lead to quick spikes in blood sugar levels making diabetes management even more challenging. Plus, the excess weight you pack from overeating contributes to insulin resistance and makes blood sugars harder to control. Inflammation and cellular stress Oxygen deprivation during sleep interruptions leads to oxidative stress and inflammation, both impairing insulin signalling and glucose metabolism. Sleep deprivation leads to chronic inflammation and contributes to the progression of diabetes complications, such as neuropathy, retinopathy, and cardiovascular disease. Increased fatigue and decrease in physical activity Daytime lethargy as a result of poor sleep quality decreases physical activity motivation, an important facet of diabetes control. Moderate exercise enhances insulin sensitivity, but sleep problems cause chronic fatigue which then reduces physical activity and worsens a sedentary lifestyle that causes more insulin resistance. Impaired cognitive function and bad decisions Sleep deprivation brings a decline in your mental faculties, affecting both judgment as well as memory. For diabetics, this may result in poor compliance with treatment, such as forgetting to take medicine or not checking out glucose. Not getting enough sleep can make a person more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviours, such as making poorer food choices or not working out, which ultimately makes blood sugar control worse. Disrupted biological clock Circadian rhythm may disrupt the metabolism via sleep disorders, such as glucose metabolism. Higher evening blood glucose levels due to circadian misalignment leads to impaired glucose control and hyperglycemia. Recommended sleep duration for people with diabetes “Quality sleep is essential, which means maintaining a regular sleep-wake schedule, minimising sleep disruptions, and avoiding any factors that could contribute to insomnia. Restorative sleep supports better blood sugar control, mood stability, and immune function,” suggests Dr Piyush Lodha, endocrinologist at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune.He recommends that adults with diabetes aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep per night. This sleep should ideally be uninterrupted and restful, as continuous sleep allows the body to manage insulin and blood glucose levels more effectively. When should a sleep specialist or healthcare provider be consulted? People with diabetes should consult a healthcare provider or sleep specialist if they experience persistent sleep disturbances or suspect sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnoea, or restless legs syndrome. Lodha points out some key indicators to watch out for: Frequent difficulty falling or staying asleep. Excessive daytime sleepiness despite adequate sleep duration. Snoring, gasping, or pauses in breathing during sleep (potential signs of sleep apnoea) Persistent high blood sugar levels despite good diet and exercise habits, may be aggravated by poor sleep. Trouble managing mood, irritability, or cognitive difficulties due to lack of sleep. Addressing these sleep issues with a specialist can lead to better blood sugar control, improved diabetes management, and enhanced overall health and well-being. Lifestyle changes for better sleep hygiene to improve diabetes management The criticality of good sleep has been established when it comes to diabetes management. Improving sleep hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of insomnia and improve diabetes management. Dr Anu Gaikwad, consultant diabetologist and HOD geriatric medicine at DPU Super Specialty Hospital, Pimpri, Pune recommends following practical lifestyle modifications to enhance your quality of sleep. Maintaining a regular sleep scheduleGoing to bed and waking up at the same time daily helps regulate the body's internal clock, making it easier to fall and stay asleep. Physical activityRegular exercise, preferably in the morning or early afternoon, can improve sleep. However, vigorous exercise should be avoided close to bedtime, as it can be stimulating. Avoid stimulants before bedtimeBoth caffeine and alcohol can interfere with sleep. Caffeine, particularly after noon, can delay sleep onset, while alcohol may disrupt sleep cycles later in the night, leading to less restful sleep. Avoid nicotine, or any other stimulants close to bed time as it disturbs the sleep. Skip heavy meals before bedEating large meals close to bedtime can cause discomfort and indigestion, which can make it difficult to sleep. A light, healthy snack, if needed, is a better choice. Create a soothing sleep environmentRelax, either by reading or meditation, before sleep to allow the body to know that it is time to sleep. Your bedroom ideally should be cool, dark and quiet. Investing in comfortable bedding and reducing exposure to noise or light (e.g., using blackout curtains) can help. Regulate screen timeAvoid using electronic devices before sleep as the blue light from phones, tablets, and computers can interfere with melatonin production, the hormone that regulates sleep. Turning off screens at least an hour before bedtime can promote better sleep. Practice relaxation techniquesSoothing practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or reading a book before bed can help lower stress and signal the body to prepare for sleep. Also Read: Consuming junk food while watching TV is increasing diabetes risk in children
14 November,2024 03:10 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalADVERTISEMENT
