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World Sleep Day: 70 pct Indians enjoy taking daytime naps lasting about 30 mins

IKEA has launched its largest global sleep study surveying over 55,000 people across 57 markets and has some very interesting points from India as well. The global report highlights several intriguing quirks on how Indians sleep.While 71 per cent of Indians feel they sleep enough, stress remains a key obstacle, with nearly half (48 per cent) of Indians identifying it as the primary barrier to good sleep. General stress affects 30 per cent, while work stress impacts 18 per cent, with women experiencing higher levels of stress (38 per cent) compared to men (23 per cent). Sleeping arrangements also play a role, as 48 per cent of Indians rarely or never sleep alone. Among usual companions, 71 per cent share their beds with partners, while 28 per cent sleep with their children, highlighting how shared spaces influence sleep dynamics To support better sleep, routines and environments matter significantly. Popular bedtime rituals include listening to music, podcasts, or audio content (32 per cent), reading (24 per cent), and investing in special mattresses or pillows (23 per cent). Creating the right environment is also vital, as 16 per cent rely on blackout curtains or blinds, while 68 per cent believe that a well-organised bedroom significantly enhances sleep quality. Interestingly, India emerges as a nation of nap enthusiasts, with 70 per cent of people enjoying daytime naps lasting an average of 30 minutes. Women lead this trend, with 78 per cent indulging in naps compared to 63 per cent of men. Sleep preferences further reveal that 65 per cent of Indians are Sleep Lovers, valuing rest over social activities and considering it one of life’s greatest joys. However, 48% are Sleep Skeptics, feeling that sleep can sometimes be a waste of time, while 52% are Sleep Worriers, deeply concerned about getting at least seven hours of sleep daily. Gender differences also influence sleep patterns. Men typically go to bed earlier (10 PM) than women (11 PM), although both genders wake around 6 am. While a good diet is a shared sleep enabler (12 per cent), men prioritise exercise slightly more (13 per cent) compared to women (11 per cent). Quirks around sleep also shape how Indians rest, with 14 per cent identifying as bed hoggers, 30 per cent as bed companions, and 8 per cent as bed minimalists, reflecting diverse personalities and habits that define life at home.

14 March,2025 11:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
World Sleep Day is observed on March 14 every year. Image for representational purpose only. Photo Courtesy: istock

53 pct Indians experience sleep disorders without consistent bedtime routine

YouGov and Amazon Alexa have released insights from a survey to understand sleep routine habits of Indian households across 10 cities*.Every year, World Sleep Day is observed on March 14 every year and people's sleeping habits have changed a lot over the years.  The survey indicates that 53 per cent of respondents experience sleep-related issues when not following a consistent bedtime routine. The study further infers that adults actively follow bedtime routines—with 54 per cent of respondents having seen a noticeable improvement in sleep when following a regular sleep routine.  52 per cent of surveyed respondents follow a consistent bedtime and pre-sleep habits86 per cent of the surveyed start their bedtime routine 8 pm onwards every day, within this 53 per cent choose to start their routine after 10:30pm. Top activities that are a part of bedtime routines amongst all respondents include watching video content (63 per cent), connecting with family and friends (59 per cent), listening to podcasts, music, or audiobooks (58 per cent), and scrolling through social media apps (57 per cent). Households with only couples rank highest in following these activities as part of their bedtime routine, amongst all other household types*. One in two respondents use voice assistants to set-up their sleep routines—with more people between 35-45 years using voice assistants compared to those aged between 25-34 years. "Sleep routines are gaining popularity, and what's noteworthy is that smart technologies, especially voice assistants like Alexa, are increasingly becoming a valuable aid in helping people follow their bedtime routines. Personalised voice AI experiences are emerging as practical alternatives to handheld screen devices before bedtime. Whether it's playing meditation sessions or relaxing sounds, listening to audiobooks or music, setting reminders and alarms, or controlling smart devices to adjust the room’s sleep environment, people are finding innovative ways to use Alexa as part of their bedtime routines. Alexa users can easily set up their bedtime routine through the Alexa app, customizing it to their specific needs and preferences," says Teena Sidana, Country Manager, Alexa India. Households with couples and kids use voice assistants to set up sleep routines more than household types  Households with couples and kids rank higher in taking help of voice assistants to follow routines, followed by other household types*. Across all respondents, 45 per cent take help of voice assistants in smart devices for listening to music, podcasts, meditation playlists, ambient sounds, movies, and audiobooks. About 23 per cent use voice assistants to set up reminders and alarms, and 22% use it for controlling smart home appliances such as smart lights in the bedroom or baby room, automated curtains, smart ACs, etc. Listening to meditation playlists and journaling before bedtime see increased interest among adultsWhile unwinding with the help of guided meditation and journaling currently ranks lower in activities that respondents engaged in before bedtime (27 per cent), the survey reveals that more than 50 per cent of the respondents have expressed interest in including wellness activities in the future as part of their bedtime routine. These include activities like meditation, journaling, light exercises like walks, and following a skincare routine. Couples with and without kids have shown higher interest (32 per cent) in adding meditation and journaling as part of their routine. Interestingly, about 21 per cent currently prefer eating and snacking before bedtime. This habit is seeing increased interest amongst respondents, with 34 per cent wanting to have a relaxing beverage or snack before bedtime. Other activities respondents would like to include in their routine are avoiding phones by playing brain games, solving puzzles and reading, and unwinding with music, podcasts, and daily news updates. 11 per cent of the respondents indicated that they would prefer ‘doing nothing’ over following a sleep routine. *Methodology: Commissioned by Amazon Alexa and conducted by YouGov India, this survey was carried out online in February 2025 with over 1000 respondents across 10 cities. These cities included Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Lucknow, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. Parameters of the study included age groups, smartphone and smart devices usage, voice assistant usage on the smartphone, and respondent household type, being households with couples, households with couples and kids, households with parents, households with grandparents, and single individuals.

14 March,2025 10:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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Increasing contrasts in young people's mental wellbeing: Study

More teenagers report good mental health, but those who are struggling rate their depressive symptoms much higher than prior cohorts did at the same age, according to a study from the University of Gothenburg. The study examined changes in how young teenagers in Sweden rated their depressive symptoms over two decades. Researchers compared two groups of 13-16-year-olds: one from 2004 and one from 2019-2020. Both groups rated their depressive symptoms using the internationally established Children's Depression Inventory (CDI), a self-report assessment. The results show that the overall proportion of adolescents reporting depressive symptoms increased from 21 percent in 2004 to 29 percent in 2019-2020--an increase that is not considered dramatic in this context. However, a key shift is evident: more adolescents than before report feeling extremely well. In the 2019-2020 group, 33 percent had very low CDI scores, indicating strong mental well-being, compared to just 15 percent in 2004. At the same time, those who are struggling report feeling significantly worse than before. Adolescents with depressive symptoms in 2019-2020 rated themselves higher on self-deprecating and negative thoughts compared to their counterparts in 2004. "Those who report high levels of depressive symptoms today rate themselves significantly higher than those in previous cohorts. We also see notable increases in certain areas, particularly self-deprecation--something that primarily affects young women," says Carl Wikberg, district nurse and adjunct senior lecturer in community medicine and public health at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg. The CDI assessment measures various aspects of mental well-being, including negative mood, self-esteem, ineffectiveness, and interpersonal problems. In the 2019-2020 group, three statements stood out among those reporting depressive symptoms: Nothing is fun at all, I am bad all the time, and I can never be as good as other kids. The fact that some young people report strong self-loathing is concerning and can make us feel despair. However, there is also hope: we are seeing a larger proportion of adolescents at the very lowest end of the scale, meaning their mental well-being has improved. So, the trend is not entirely negative," said Wikberg. While the study does not provide definitive answers as to why these changes are occurring, the researchers highlight the role of evolving public discourse on mental health. A more open attitude toward mental health issues and treatment may influence how young people describe their wellbeing in self-report assessments. At the same time, the study underscores the importance of school health services and primary care in identifying adolescents with high CDI scores. Screening tools like CDI create opportunities to detect and support those in need. The study included 617 adolescents (aged 13-16) from 2019-2020 as part of a larger research project on depression. The comparison group consisted of 80 adolescents of the same age from 2004 who participated in a CDI validation study in a Swedish context.  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 March,2025 09:48 AM IST | Gothenburg (Sweden) | ANI
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Why middle-aged women are 4 times more likely to experience fatigue: Study

Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding during menopause transition may explain why middle-aged women are two-to-four times more likely to experience fatigue, suggests a new study, calling for more attention on tiredness among females.  Besides the commonly known menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep problems, pain, and depression heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding may increase fatigue. Most women transitioning through menopause experience changes in the amount and duration of menstrual flow, with many reporting episodes of prolonged (PMB) or heavy (HMB) menstrual bleeding that meet the criteria for abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). The team led by researchers from the University of Michigan revealed that one in three women transitioning through menopause had episodes of AUB. Despite the high occurrence of AUB, only a few prior studies have focused on the problem, and no known studies have attempted to link AUB during the menopause transition with fatigue or an overall decreased quality of life, lamented the researchers. Heavy menstrual bleeding, in particular, is linked to iron deficiency anaemia, a well-recognised cause of fatigue, said the team in the paper, published online in the journal Menopause. For the study, the team assessed the daily menstrual calendar data from more than 2,300 midlife women to determine whether HMB or PMB recorded during the 6 months before a follow-up visit were associated with the reporting of four specific symptoms of fatigue (feeling worn out, feeling tired, not feeling full of pep, or not having energy). The team found that HMB and PMB during the menopause transition were associated with an increased risk of fatigue, even after adjusting for other causes. They suggest that greater clinical awareness is required of bleeding changes during this life stage, especially when fatigue is also reported. Because iron deficiency and related anaemia can be readily treated, an early assessment and remediation in women with these symptoms would be helpful. “This study highlights the need for greater clinical awareness of abnormal uterine bleeding, particularly given the increased frequency during the menopause transition and its association with low energy or fatigue symptoms,” said Dr. Stephanie Faubion, medical director for The Menopause Society. Faubion urged the need for educating women about the possibility of prolonged or heavy menstrual bleeding during the menopause transition. 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 March,2025 09:34 AM IST | New Delhi | IANS
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World Kidney Day: Crucial to raise awareness on early detection, says JP Nadda

It is critical is raise awareness on kidney health and prevention of kidney-related diseases, Union Health Minister JP Nadda said on Thursday.  The 'World Kidney Day' is observed annually on March 13 to raise awareness on kidney health, preventive measures and risk factors. While stressing the need for early detection, the minister informed how the Pradhan Mantri National Dialysis Programme (PMNDP) is providing life-saving treatment to millions of people in the country. "As we observe #WorldKidneyDay, it is a crucial time to raise awareness about the importance of kidney health and the need for early detection and prevention of kidney-related diseases," Nadda said in a post on social media platform X. "In a significant step towards improving healthcare access, our government, under the visionary leadership of PM Narendra Modi, launched the Pradhan Mantri National Dialysis Program (PMNDP). Through this transformative initiative, thousands of dialysis centres are now providing life-saving treatment to millions across India," he added. "Let us join hands to spread awareness and ensure that kidney health remains a priority for all," the Minster said. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. It is a growing public health crisis in India, affecting a significant percentage of the population and causing over 100,000 new cases of kidney failure annually. Although it affects one in 10 adults, early detection remains low, often leading to severe complications like hyperkalemia (high potassium levels), which increases the risk of heart failure. This is majorly because of the minimal symptoms in early stages that are often go unnoticed. As per recent research published in the Nephrology journal there has been an alarming rise in CKD cases across India. Analysing data from 2011 to 2023, the study found that CKD prevalence among individuals aged 15 and above increased from 11.2 per cent (2011-2017) to 16.38 per cent (2018-2023). The findings also highlighted a significant rural-urban disparity, with CKD affecting 15.34 per cent of the rural population compared to 10.65 per cent in urban areas. Notably, kidney health is closely linked to conditions like diabetes and obesity -- one of the leading causes of CKD. As CKD often progresses silently, millions are at risk of severe complications, reduced quality of life, and increased healthcare burdens. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health stressed the need to "prioritise kidney health." In an infographic posted on X, the ministry suggested following five simple steps to ensure your kidneys stay strong and healthy. They are exercising regularly, drinking plenty of fluids, controlling blood sugar, limiting salt intake, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol. Early detection, proactive management, and access to effective treatments can be important in curbing the growing public health challenge. 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 March,2025 09:23 AM IST | New Delhi | IANS
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Chickpeas, lentils are more nutritious than oats, wheat: Study

Chickpeas and lentils, either whole or in flour form, offer more nutritional value to the human diet than products made from oats and wheat, a new study said on Wednesday.  The study, published in the Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, showed that chickpeas and lentils contain more zinc and iron -- key vitamins for better nutrition than oats and wheat. The team from the University of Adelaide looked at the bioavailability of micronutrients in products that are available to the public. "We found that all the pulse products, like chickpea and lentil flours, were excellent sources of micronutrients," said Thi Diem Nguyen, doctoral candidate in the School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, at the varsity. "Particularly for zinc and iron nutrition, they outperformed cereal products like oat and wheat flours," Nguyen added. Zinc and iron deficiencies can have harmful health consequences, especially for children and pregnant people. Fortification of these nutrients in food can either be done by growers, through the use of fertilisers, or by adding them as ingredients, such as during the baking process for bread products. "Our results indicated that pulse products, such as chickpeas and lentils, are superior sources of protein and minerals, particularly of zinc and iron, with higher micronutrient bioavailability compared to the cereal products tested,” said Dr. Stephanie Watts-Fawkes, a group leader and Future Making Fellow at the Waite Research Institute. The bioavailability of zinc and iron, which is the ability of the human body to extract nutrients from food, is also affected by other elements present in cereal crops. "Nutrient absorption can be limited by co-existing antinutritional factors in cereal grain, like the presence of phytate," Nguyen said. "Individuals at risk of micronutrient deficiencies could include more pulses in their meals, which are rich in protein, zinc, and iron, and have high bioavailability," she 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.

13 March,2025 10:45 AM IST | Mumbai | IANS
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Australian man is world's 1st to live with artificial heart for over 100 days

In a first, an Australian man has become the first in the world to live with a durable total artificial heart implant -- made of titanium -- for more than 100 days, and to be discharged from hospital.  The implant of a BiVACOR total artificial heart -- the first in Australia and sixth in the world has been -- “an unmitigated clinical success,” according to a statement on Wednesday by St Vincent’s Hospital, Monash University, and BiVACOR -- the US-Australian company which developed the device. The patient in his 40s, who declined to be identified, was experiencing severe heart failure. He underwent a six-hour procedure for the implant of an artificial heart on November 22, 2024, at St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney. The man lived with the device for 105 days before receiving a donor heart transplant in early March. “At 105 days, it is the longest period in the world for a BiVACOR total artificial heart patient between obtaining their implant and then receiving their donor heart transplant,” the statement said. The first BiVACOR total artificial heart implant took place in July 2024 at the Texas Heart Institute in the US. Since then, four more implants have taken place in the US, with the longest time between implant and transplant being 27 days. BiVACOR’s artificial heart implant is the world's first implantable rotary blood pump. It uses magnetic levitation technology as a complete replacement for a human heart. It is designed as a bridge to keep patients alive until a donor heart transplant becomes available. The device comprise a Mini-Pump, that is implanted inside the hearts of patients who currently have no other option for treating their heart failure symptoms; and a new type of Left Ventricle Assist Device (LVAD) that is implanted next to a natural heart to help it pump. Even as more than 23 million people worldwide suffer from heart failure, and only 6,000 will receive a donor heart, this artificial heart has the potential to “transform heart failure treatment”, said Professor Chris Hayward, a cardiologist at St. Vincent’s Hospital Sydney. “Within the next decade we will see the artificial heart becoming the alternative for patients who are unable to wait for a donor heart or when a donor heart is simply not available,” Hayward 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.

13 March,2025 10:22 AM IST | New Delhi | IANS
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Flexible health insurance surges by 300 pct in last 5 years in India: Report

Flexible health insurance plans have seen an upsurge of almost 300 per cent in the last five years in India, said a report on Tuesday.  The report by Mercer Marsh Benefits (MMB) showed that even as the workforce in the country is evolving, organisations are reinventing benefits to meet diverse employee needs. Beyond statutory provisions, companies are increasingly introducing innovative solutions like flexible health insurance plans. The inclusive coverage options focus on parents, siblings and wellness programme, and financial planning tools. These forward-thinking approaches not only enhance employee well-being but also help attract and retain top talent in a competitive landscape, the report said. "Employee benefits in India are no longer just about healthcare coverage; they are evolving into holistic well-being solutions. There is a significant shift towards flexible, inclusive, and future-ready benefits,” said Prawal Kalita, Managing Director, Mercer Marsh Benefits India Leader. “The adoption of flexible health insurance has surged by 300 per cent in the last five years. Employers are recognising the value of offering comprehensive support -- from parental insurance to mental health programmes -- to meet the diverse needs of their workforce,” Kalita added. The report highlighted the transformative changes in India's employee benefits landscape including employer sponsorship for parental insurance which increased from 35 per cent in 2019 to 53 per cent in 2024. The provision is a key benefit for employee retention and well-being. Organisations and insurers are also promoting cashless hospitalisation, leading to higher payout ratios and a reduction in the average hospital stay from 5.9 to 5.3 days. Further, understanding the workforce needs employers are increasingly expanding coverage to include fertility treatments, surrogacy, and adoption benefits. Employees are also demanding greater autonomy in choosing benefits, leading to increased adoption of customisable insurance and wellness programmes. Organisations are prioritising preventive healthcare measures, including early diagnosis, screenings, and wellness programmes, to reduce long-term medical expenses, the report said. “As businesses compete for talent, benefits strategies must go beyond statutory provisions and embrace innovation, ensuring they remain relevant, cost-effective, and impactful for employees across all life stages," Kalita said.

12 March,2025 09:24 AM IST | New Delhi | IANS
While severe skin reactions can be uncommon, it is helpful to know how to care for them ahead of Holi. Image for representational purpose only. Photo Courtesy: istock

Holi 2025 skincare guide: Immediate steps to tackle skin reactions

The beloved festival of Holi is around the corner, and if you find yourself dreading the havoc it can wreak on your skin, you are not alone. While many indulge in play with organic colours, it is difficult to eliminate the possibility of coming across synthetic colours. The harsh chemicals present in a variety of synthetic colours may lead to skin irritation, and reactions, especially for those who have sensitive skin. With appropriate precautions and post-Holi care, it is possible to avoid harmful reactions and ensure the wellbeing of your skin health. This Holi, dermatologists outline common allergies, simple preventive measures, home remedies, and step-by-step strategies for treating irritations by offering tailored advice for different skin types to minimise sin damage.  3-step colour cleanse If you are worried about the post-Holi cleanse, fret not. Dr. Prachi B. Bodkhe, dermatologist at Envi Aesthetics shares three hacks to avoid damaging your skin and hair. 1. Double cleansing First, use biphasic micellar water to break down pigments. Follow with a foam-based cleanser for deep cleaning.  2. Protect hair and scalp Apply non-sticky hair oil to the scalp before Holi. Use a serum on hair shafts to prevent dryness.  3. Avoid scrubbing Scrubbing increases skin damage and irritation. Remember to be gentle while cleansing.  Common allergies “The most common skin allergies that can occur during Holi are rashes which can be caused by the toxins in the colours this can cause the skin to be inflamed, red, swollen and painful, it can also trigger or aggravate skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and hives,” says Dr Varsha Reddy, dermatologist at Zennara Clinics.  Bodkhe, adds, “Common Holi-related skin conditions include redness, dryness, itching, burning, scaling, rashes, and infections. People with acne, eczema, and nail and hand infections are at higher risk.”  Five dermatologist-approved tips to avoid rashes this Holi Reddy shares five actionable yet simple preventive measures to avoid rashes: 1. Apply coconut oil: Massage coconut oil all over your face and body just before you go out to play. It acts as a barrier between your skin and the colours, protecting your skin from harmful toxins. 2. Don’t skip sunscreen: Apply a sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher, as you’ll be spending a lot of time in the sun. This helps prevent sun damage and tanning. 3. Use lightweight moisturizers: If you have oily skin, opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to prevent clogged pores. 4. Avoid synthetic colours: The toxins in synthetic colours can damage your skin. Always choose natural, organic colours to minimize the risk of allergies and irritation. 5. Keep wet wipes handy: If you experience any irritation or burning on your skin, wash the area immediately with cold water or gently wipe it with wet wipes.  How to treat a rash If you end up with a rash even after taking all these precautions, here’s what you can do according to Reddy: 1. Wash the affected area: Rinse the area immediately with cold water and avoid scrubbing the skin, as it can worsen the irritation. 2. Use a gentle cleanser: Wash off the colours with a mild, soap-free cleanser. Avoid using any active ingredients or cosmetics on irritated skin. 3. Soothe and repair: Apply skin-calming and repairing creams that will help reduce inflammation, redness and discomfort. Home remedies for mild skin irritation Mild skin irritation can be effectively addressed with simple home remedies. Bodkhe recommends several soothing options, “Aloe vera gel, renowned for its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties, provides immediate relief from irritation. For dry skin, coconut or olive oil serves as an excellent moisturiser, restoring skin hydration and strengthening the protective barrier. Alternatively, a mixture of rose water and glycerin offers a hydrating and calming effect.”  To avoid excessive oiliness, Bodkhe suggests limiting the application time of the rose water and glycerin mixture to 5-10 minutes, which is sufficient to reduce redness and irritation. These readily available natural remedies offer gentle and effective solutions for alleviating minor skin discomfort. Are certain skin types more susceptible? Allergies and reactions to colours vary depending on your skin type. Reddy outlines five skin types which may be more susceptible this Holi, and suggests specific preventive measures:  1. Sensitive skinUse a lightweight moisturizer and sunscreen before playing Holi. Opt for organic and dry colours.  2. Dry skin (Xerosis)Apply a ceramide-based moisturiser before and after Holi. For the body, apply a thin layer of warm coconut oil. Avoid putting colours on extremely dry skin.  3. Acne-prone skinColours can clog pores, trigger breakouts, and cause inflammation. Use non-comedogenic products and double cleansing after Holi.  4. Eczema or Dermatitis-prone skinStick to organic colours and frequent moisturization. Wear full-sleeved clothing to minimize exposure.  5. Nail fold inflammation (Paronychia)People with extremely dry skin around the nails and injured cuticles are prone to nail fold swelling post-Holi. Use petroleum jelly or a thick moisturizer to protect the skin before playing Holi. SOS for severe skin reactionsWhile severe skin reactions can be uncommon, it is helpful to know how to care for them ahead of Holi. Here are five things to keep in mind according to Bodkhe: 1. Avoid harsh scrubbing Scrubbing can cause abrasions, increase irritation, and worsen inflammation.  2. Remove colours gently Dust off dry colour before washing. After dusting off, use biphasic micellar water to dissolve pigments. Follow with a foam-based cleanser to remove residues. Finally, apply a gel-based or lightweight moisturizer to restore hydration.  3. Soothe with ice cubes Wrap ice cubes in a clean cloth and apply to irritated skin to reduce burning and inflammation.  4. Anti-Allergic Treatments For redness, swelling, or hives, anti-itch lotions or A mild hydrocortisone cream can help with inflammation. It is recommended to always consult an expert before starting treatment.  5. Seek medical help for severe cases If you experience blisters, peeling skin, infection (pus, fever), swelling over the face and lips, or difficulty breathing, consult a dermatologist immediately.  Can colours have a long-term impact? Over time, untreated rashes can cause long-term damage to the skin. “Our skin can react to allergens, leading to hives, scaly patches, and eczema. This can result in prolonged skin sensitivity and may even lead to scarring. It’s important to avoid using harsh ingredients like parabens, retinoids, AHA, BHA, gritty scrubs, and benzoyl peroxide on irritated skin. Scratching an itchy rash can break the skin’s barrier, allowing germs to enter and increasing the risk of developing a bacterial infection,” cautions Reddy.

11 March,2025 03:53 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai Agarwal
Rujuta Diwekar. Photo Courtesy: File pic

Rujuta Diwekar: Not drinking is a choice, don't explain it

Drinking alcohol has always been associated with being cool. Most often than not, non-drinkers are either forced to drink in their social circles or are made fun of for not drinking alcohol.  This comes at a time when people know the many benefits of not drinking alcohol. It has been recommend by doctors and nutritionists on every occasion they can, and rightfully so.  In a recent post on X, celebrity nutritionist dropped just one line but that serves as a reminder about the act of drinking. She said, "Not drinking is a choice, don't explain it".  The tweet has now got over 19,200 views, 688 likes, 95 reshares, nine comments, 23 bookmarks and nine comments -- all an indication of how people feel about the act of drinking, if not for following Diwekar's advice.One user by the name of '@Indian_policy' even commented saying, "I have linked it to weight reduction target. My target is 65 kg. I don't allow myself any alcohol above 68." Interestingly, the tweet comes on the back of another doctor stating 'How much alcohol is safe'. Dr Saurabh Sethi, who is a gastroenterologist, has over 1 million followers on Instagram, and put out the reel on March 10 about it. In the reel, he talks about the effects of alcohol on the body.As far as Diwekar is concerned, she is known for her constantly sharing her thoughts on social media, and even sharing expert help tips, which are often helpful for people. Most recently, she even shared three cooling foods that people can eat to beat the heat. At a time when Mumbai is experience a heatwave, and India is getting hotter, these tips are very helpful on-the-go.

11 March,2025 02:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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Goa govt launches 20-yr cohort study to diagnose diseases in advance

The Goa government on Tuesday launched a 20-year longitudinal cohort study, which will help diagnose chronic and non-communicable diseases in advance. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant launched the study at Mantralaya in the presence of officials from the University of Oxford and Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai. Talking to reporters, Sawant said the study is a historic decision that will benefit Goans in a big way. He said blood samples of more than 1 lakh people would be collected as part of the study, and the diagnosis report would help understand the onset of various diseases, including chronic and non-communicable ailments. "Chronic illnesses will be diagnosed in advance. It will also help doctors advise patients on how to prevent them," he said. Sawant said the study will be conducted over 20 years and will help the next generation. A senior government official said that the study is a ground-breaking health initiative aimed at tackling non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the state. "This longitudinal cohort study will assess the risk and epidemiology of NCDs, providing valuable insights into the risk factors and disease patterns in Goa," he said. The official said the study is a collaborative effort between the Directorate of Health Services (DHS) Goa, the Centre for Cancer Epidemiology Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, and the Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford. He said the study is expected to inform policy and interventions to address the growing health concern of NCDs in Goa. "With this initiative, Goa is taking a proactive step towards improving the health and well-being of its citizens," 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.

11 March,2025 01:19 PM IST | Panjim | PTI
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