Lung cancer is among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths across India. The disease often progresses silently, with symptoms appearing only in the advanced stages. It occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in one or both lungs.The major cause is tobacco smoking, including passive smoke exposure, but it can also result from air pollution, genetic factors, and long-term exposure to harmful substances like asbestos or radon. Every year, World Lung Cancer Day is observed on August 1 around the globe, to raise awareness about lung cancer, and not only how it affects people but also why research is important. While that is ongoing, a lot can be done before hand, especially when diagnosed early, lung cancer is not only treatable but also curable. Doctors in Mumbai are urging people to be proactive about screenings and symptom awareness. They say the symptoms seen during advanced stages can be a persistent cough, chest pain, breathlessness, unexplained weight loss, hoarseness, or coughing up blood. “Early-stage lung cancer often has no visible symptoms, making regular screening crucial for high-risk groups such as smokers or people with a family history. Over 50 per cent of lung cancer cases are detected at advanced stages, leading to delayed treatment and higher risks of complications and mortality. There should be awareness regarding timely testing among individuals,” says Dr Upasana Garg, regional technical chief, Apollo Diagnostics in Andheri East. Dr Garg adds, “Low-dose CT (LDCT) scans are the most effective tool for detecting lung cancer at an early stage, when treatment options are more effective and survival rates are higher. Some other tests like chest X-rays, sputum cytology, and biopsy may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the stage. Treatment for lung cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. Awareness, timely diagnosis, and preventive health check-ups are the key pillars of lung cancer control." Dr Supriya Bambarkar, senior consultant oncosurgeon at AIMS Hospital in Dombivli reassures that lung cancer is no longer a death sentence, especially when caught and managed early. She explains, "The focus should be on early detection and personalised treatment plans that increase survival and improve quality of life. Since more than 50 per cent of lung cancer cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, it results in delayed treatment and increased mortality risk. In just two months, 5 out of 10 patients aged 25 -75 presented with late-stage symptoms like persistent cough or breathlessness, requiring urgent medical intervention." Lung cancer treatment depends on the stage and may consist of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy. "Timely diagnosis can greatly improve outcomes. Lung cancer can lead to complications like breathlessness, infections, fluid buildup, and spread to other organs if not treated early. Regular follow-ups and lifestyle changes, smoking cessation therapy, and a healthy diet play a pivotal role in recovery. Be aware when it comes to lung health,” concludes Dr Bambarkar.
01 August,2025 08:21 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA study has described how prolonged exposure to heat -- especially under increased global warming -- can impact cognition of school children, affecting long-term learning and the ability to handle complex tasks. Researchers from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and University of New South Wales in Australia reviewed data from seven previously published studies involving nearly 14.5 million students from 61 countries, including India. Findings published in the journal PLOS Climate point to impacted learning capacity of students under a long-term exposure to heat, with performance in complex tasks, such as mathematical, hit harder than that in simpler ones, including reading. As the planet continues to get warmer, deficits in learning abilities among the youth can accumulate, potentially reducing the "capacity of young people to undertake intensive cognitive activities", the authors said. Equity and quality of life of the vulnerable, low-income population -- which is unable to protect itself from climate change -- will be affected, the team said. They added that societal disparities will be widened and economic progress hampered in the less developed nations which are more exposed to heat. Two of the seven studies that the researchers reviewed -- pertaining to primary school students in India -- found that one additional day in a previous year with an average daily temperature higher than 29 degrees Celsius impacted reading and mathematical abilities, compared to a day with a temperature between 15-17 degrees Celsius. Ten such days in a previous year were "found to reduce reading scores by 0.02 and mathematics scores by 0.03". Data for mathematics and reading test scores were taken from the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER), a nationwide survey of rural households to assess children's schooling and learning. Story reading and division skills in mathematics reduced by one percentage point, the authors said. The analysis also used data from the Young Lives Survey (YLS), a UK-funded long-term study of poverty and inequality among 12,000 children from Ethiopia, India (Andhra Pradesh and Telangana), Peru and Vietnam. "These results were statistically significant, with the impact of hot days being significant only for the harder questions in both reading and mathematics tests," the researchers wrote. They also said, "The social cost of global overheating on human capital associated to the potential reduced capacity of young people to undertake intensive cognitive activities, will unfortunately affect equity and quality of life of vulnerable and low-income population unable to be protected from the climatic phenomena." "It will accelerate societal discrepancies and will impede economic progress in less developed countries suffering from excessive heat exposure," the team wrote. 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
01 August,2025 01:37 PM IST | Mumbai | PTIHaving experienced a major flood event might make elderly people more vulnerable to hospitalisation due to skin, nervous and musculoskeleton system diseases, according to a study that analysed over a 17-year database of insurance claims and floods in the US. Findings published in The Lancet Planetary Health journal show that on average, hospitalisation rates remained high by three per cent for skin conditions and 2.5 per cent for nervous system problems during and following floods. Risks of being hospitalised for conditions affecting joints and muscles, and physical injuries and poisonings remained elevated by over one per cent, said researchers, including those from Harvard University's school of public health. An exposure to poor sanitation and contaminated water sources could be causes for skin diseases, while delays in seeking care and injuries suffered from cleaning up after a flood could be reasons behind developing or worsening of musculoskeletal conditions, they said. The team looked at US' national health insurance claims made by adults aged 65 and above during 2000-2016. These were compared with flood maps from the 'Global Flood Database' developed using historical data. More than 4.5 million hospitalisations for 13 disease categories over the four weeks following a flood event -- 72 major ones -- were analysed. "Among adults older than 65 years, exposure to severe flood events was associated with increased hospitalisation rates for skin diseases, nervous system diseases, musculoskeletal system diseases, and injuries," the authors wrote. Older adults especially are at an increased risk of health impacts following exposure to a major flood event owing to weakened immune systems and a possibly limited ability to move. The section of society may also have age-related brain disorders, such as dementia, which can further limit their capacity to cope with climate hazards, the authors said. The team called for flood preparedness measures and adaptation strategies for the society's vulnerable communities, which include older adults and the minorities. 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
01 August,2025 01:11 PM IST | Mumbai | PTIAs work stress mounts and deadlines pile up, nearly 20 per cent of corporate women are now resorting to smoking as a coping mechanism. This alarming trend can increase their chances of developing lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and bronchitis in the coming years. With smoking-related lung issues on the rise, experts stress that quitting is the need of the hour. They say it is time to refocus on timely diagnosis, early treatment, and lung care awareness, especially for working women navigating high-pressure careers to take utmost care of their lungs. Corporate women today juggle tight deadlines, long working hours, high expectations, work-life imbalance, career pressure; limited breaks can lead to stress. Moreover, stress causes symptoms such as fatigue and burnout, anxiety, sleep disturbances, headaches or muscle tension, and mood swings. “In high-pressure work settings, some women may turn to smoking as a quick escape from stress or to stay alert during long hours. But what starts as an occasional puff often becomes a habit that damages the lungs. Over time, it destroys the delicate lining of the lungs, reducing their capacity and making it harder to breathe. The harmful chemicals in cigarettes are directly linked to lung cancer, bronchitis, asthma, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD),” says Dr Aditya Deshmukh, internal medicine expert, Apollo Spectra in Pune. Dr Deshmukh adds, “For corporate women dealing with immense stress, smoking might seem like a temporary fix, but in reality, it creates long-term health challenges. Approximately 20 per cent of corporate women tend to take up smoking due to stress, and can suffer from lung cancer in the coming years. This will happen because their lungs are weakened due to smoking. Monthly, 3 in 10 working women aged 25-35 visit me with a cough, and should seek treatment and follow-up regularly to prevent lung cancer. Smoking cessation can be helpful for the lungs; it improves oxygen intake, energy levels, and overall lung function. Regular physical activity, deep breathing, hydration, and yearly lung checkups are key steps to healing and maintaining respiratory health.” Dr Jyoti Mehta, consultant radiation oncologist at Onco-Life Cancer Centre in Talegaon further explains, “Around 10 per cent of corporate women tend to pick up smoking due to ongoing stress at work, often unaware of the harm it causes to their lungs in the long run. Over time, smoking compromises lung function and makes one susceptible to lung cancer and other respiratory illnesses. Nearly 2 out of every 10 women aged 27-35 report symptoms like constant cough, fatigue, and breathlessness each month, which should not be overlooked." With proper diagnosis of underlying symptoms being necessary for prompt intervention, she adds, "Lung cancer can be diagnosed through chest X-rays and CT scans, followed by a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer cells. After the diagnosis is confirmed, treatment depends on the stage and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these. Quitting smoking, reducing exposure to indoor pollutants, maintaining nutrition, and stress management techniques like yoga or therapy can reduce the chances of lung cancer."
31 July,2025 02:16 PM IST | Pune | mid-day online correspondentClimate change could worsen the risk of diarrhoea -- a leading cause of death among children aged under five -- across south and southeast Asia, including India, endangering the health of millions of children, according to a study. Researchers from Australia, including those from Flinders University, analysed data of more than three million children, taken from national surveys of eight Asian countries, such as Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Indonesia. Prevalence of diarrhoea was found to be about 8 per cent among India's under-fives. The disease is marked by passing loose, watery stools occurring more often than normal. Dehydration, malnutrition and an impaired immunity are among its risk factors. The findings, published in the journal Environmental Research, also highlight temperature extremes and declining rainfall (in a year's wettest month) as the two main climate-associated factors driving a higher risk of diarrhoea among children. A wider range of yearly temperatures -- 30 to 40 degrees Celsius -- was related with a 39 per cent increase in chances of diarrhoea among children, while less-than-usual rainfall in the wettest month (under 600 millimetres) increased the risk by about 30 per cent. Further, children of mothers with less than eight years of schooling were found to face an 18 per cent higher risk of diarrhoea, lead researcher Syeda Hira Fatima from Flinders University said. "This makes investing in maternal education one of the most powerful and scalable climate-adaptation strategies -- not only to improve child health, but also to address broader challenges like overcrowding and poor hygiene," Fatima said. "Education empowers mothers to act early when their children fall ill, which can save lives," the lead researcher said and added that its role in climate-health policies is central, especially in the world's densely populated, high-risk regions. Citing previous research, co-author Corey Bradshaw, professor of global ecology at Flinders University, said 88 per cent of deaths due to diarrhoea are linked to unhygienic conditions, including unsafe drinking water. "Improved access to drinking water can reduce the risk of diarrhoea by 52 per cent, while better sanitation facilities can lower the risk by 24 per cent," Bradshaw said. The author added that poverty is known to increase diarrhoea risk by limiting access to nutrition, clean water and healthcare, while also fostering environments where diarrhoeal pathogens thrive. "With our recent research also showing that droughts in East Asia will intensify based on 1,50,000 years of monsoon records, this new study now warns that the intensified impacts of climate change will lead to increased child diarrhoea and all the associated health impacts in Asia," Bradshaw said. The authors wrote, "Higher annual temperature range (30-40 degrees Celsius) was associated with a (nearly) 39 per cent increase in diarrhoea probability, while lower precipitation in the wettest month (under 600 millimetres) increased risk by (nearly) 29 per cent, highlighting the role of drier conditions." "We found that maternal education (under) eight years increased diarrhoea probability by (nearly) 18 per cent, and household sizes exceeding six members increased it by (nearly) nine per cent," they wrote. 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
31 July,2025 12:58 PM IST | Mumbai | PTIIn a major medical milestone, a 30-year-old man struggling with bladder neck obstruction has found relief through a minimally invasive procedure performed at hospital in Thane.The patient had been experiencing troubling urinary symptoms, but was successfully treated by Dr. Aakil Khan, urologist at KIMS Hospitals using the iTind device, believed to be a next-generation solution that opens the blocked passage without the need for major surgery, a catheter, or an overnight hospital stay. The iTind procedure, done under sedation, offers a key advantage over traditional treatments: it preserves sexual function, causes minimal discomfort, and allows same-day discharge. During the procedure, a slender, three-strut nitinol device is inserted through the urethra into the prostatic urethra and bladder neck. Under direct vision with a cystoscope, the device is carefully positioned in the precise area of obstruction. Once deployed, it expands gently, applying controlled radial pressure to the surrounding prostatic and bladder neck tissue. Over the course of 5–7 days, this pressure gradually reshapes and remodels the obstructing tissue without cutting, heating, or ablating it. This reshaping creates longitudinal channels within the prostate and bladder neck, improving urine flow while preserving ejaculation making it an ideal solution for younger individuals. After the tissue has remodeled, the device is retrieved in a brief follow-up visit using a retrieval catheter or cystoscopic grasper. The removal is typically performed under light sedation or local anesthesia and takes only a few minutes. The patient is able to void spontaneously after device removal, usually with immediate symptom improvement. The 30-year-old male from Mumbra had a structurally high bladder neck a condition more commonly seen in older individuals due to prostate enlargement, but also found in 5–10 per cent of younger patients. In younger individuals, this congenital anatomical variant can lead to bladder neck obstruction, causing difficulty in urination. Initially, the patient was treated with alpha-blockers, which failed to provide relief. A surgical incision of the bladder neck (done endoscopically) was considered but avoided due to the risk of retrograde ejaculation, a common side effect of traditional procedures like TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate). The iTind implant offered a safe, non-invasive alternative that resolved the obstruction while preserving sexual function. After the reshaping is complete, the device is removed in a short follow-up visit, leaving behind a more open urinary passage. This minimally invasive approach eliminates the need for incisions or prolonged catheter use, significantly reducing the risk of bleeding, infection, or erectile dysfunction often associated with conventional surgeries. “This is the first iTind procedure conducted in Mumbai and only the second or third in Maharashtra,” said Dr Khan. “Across India, only around 30 cases have been done so far, mainly in Delhi and Pune. The technique is a breakthrough, especially for younger patients who seek relief without compromising quality of life,” he added. The patient, who was discharged the same day, was symptom-free and grateful. “I was nervous about surgery, especially with risks to daily life and personal health. but this treatment felt effortless. I was back on my feet the same day with no pain and no complications,” he shared. iTind is part of a group of emerging Minimally Invasive Surgical Therapies (MIST), alongside options like UroLift, aimed at managing urinary obstruction with minimal disruption to lifestyle.
30 July,2025 07:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentEvery third Indian is affected by some metabolic dysfunction, said Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, while proposing a mass campaign for the prevention of Type 2 diabetes in the young. Addressing the Foundation Day ceremony of the Research Society for Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI), Singh expressed concern that India continues to be labelled the “diabetes capital of the world”. “Every third Indian is affected by some form of metabolic dysfunction,” he said. The Minister, himself a globally renowned endocrinologist, also cautioned against diabetes disinformation, which tends to be spread, sometimes inadvertently, from certain quarters. He debunked popular myths, such as the belief in “one meal a day”, urging for a more scientific understanding of meal quality and quantity in diabetes care. Singh reiterated the target of reducing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by 10 per cent, particularly those associated with fatty liver, visceral fat, and obesity. He emphasised that public health messaging must go beyond medical publications and into institutionalised outreach to common citizens. Calling for evidence-based health awareness, Singh gave a firm dictum: “Treat diabetes before it occurs, stressing that prevention is better than cure”. Recently, Singh also launched a study led by RSSDI, which showed that yoga can reduce the risk of diabetes by 40 per cent, highlighting the potential of yoga in preventive healthcare. The study suggested that the regular practice of yoga may reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by as much as 40 per cent in individuals predisposed to the condition. "This is one of the first such efforts that seeks to scientifically document the prevention of the occurrence of Type 2 diabetes with yoga. As per the authors of the report, there is as much as a 40 per cent reduction in the development of Type 2 diabetes among potential individuals who practice yoga regularly," Singh 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
30 July,2025 04:38 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSThe monsoon season brings with it a change in weather and humidity levels, which in turn can affect the skin, leading to breakouts, oiliness, irritation, and rashes, among other issues. Besides these, the rainy days also carry an increased risk of severe skin infections. “High humidity, damp clothing and sweating create an ideal environment for fungal and bacterial growth. The skin often stays moist for longer periods, especially in body folds or under tight clothing, making it more prone to infections,” explains Dr Shweta Nakhawa, consultant dermatologist at KIMS Hospitals in Thane. Following a brief respite from intense rain, Mumbai has again been receiving moderate to heavy rainfall since last week, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing yellow or orange alerts in the city and surrounding districts. With the monsoon season at its peak, it is essential to take extra care of your skin, and implement steps to protect it from infections. Common skin infections to watch out for One may be susceptible to fungal skin infections and other skin-related conditions during monsoon. “The skin infections during this season are generally associated with increased sweating or oil production. Dampness in the skin folds can cause fungal infections. People with acne-prone skin may experience more breakouts, and those with eczema-prone skin may see flare-ups,” informs Dr Sana Bhamla, paediatric dermatologist at Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital in Mumbai. Dr Nakhawa shares the following skin infections that one should watch out for: 1. Ringworm: It is a fungal infection that shows up as itchy, red, circular patches on the body. 2. Athlete’s Foot: This fungal infection affects the feet, particularly the area between the toes, causing skin peeling, burning, and odour. 3. Fungal Intertrigo: It refers to infection in skin folds, which is often caused due to trapped moisture. 4. Folliculitis: It is a bacterial infection of hair follicles that shows up as red bumps or pus-filled spots. 5. Eczema flare-ups: While not infectious, eczema can worsen in the monsoon due to excess moisture, allergens, and irritants. It presents itself as dry, itchy, flaky, and inflamed skin, often found behind the knees or on the arms and legs. Besides the skin, the hair also gets affected during the monsoon season. “Due to the high humidity and ambient temperature, the hair may become dry and frizzy, leading to seasonal increase in hair fall,” says Dr Bhamla. Who is more at risk? While anyone can develop skin infections, certain groups may be more at risk. These include: Individuals with diabetes or weakened immunity People who sweat excessively Children, the elderly, and individuals with existing skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis People with excessively oily skin Additionally, certain behaviours like wearing tight or non-breathable clothing, and staying in wet clothes and footwear for longer periods may elevate the risk of skin infection during monsoon. Immediate steps If you observe symptoms of skin infection, certain steps should be taken to avoid worsening of the condition. “One must gently clean the affected area and keep it dry. It is important to avoid self-medication, especially with steroid creams, which may worsen fungal infections. Additionally, one should avoid sharing personal items like towels, clothing, or footwear,” suggests Dr Nakhawa. She adds that seeking medical help on time is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. Dr Bhamla backs the same, adding, “One should consult a dermatologist. Some of these infections may be similar in appearance and have overlapping symptoms, making it difficult to distinguish between them. Every condition has a different treatment; hence it is important to seek medical help.” Preventing skin infections By following some basic steps and guidelines, one can reduce the risk of contracting skin infections. The experts recommend the following: 1. Wear loose, breathable clothes. 2. Change out of wet clothes and socks as soon as possible. 3. Use antifungal powders in areas prone to moisture. 5. Wash and thoroughly dry your feet, especially between the toes. 6. It is essential to always keep the skin dry. In addition to this, general skincare practices should be followed to protect and nourish the skin during monsoon. “One should select the right cleanser for acne-prone skin, which is meant to control sebum production. Moisturising the skin is important as it helps maintain balance. The skin shouldn’t be excessively oily or dry,” says Dr Bhamla. Dr Nakhawa shares the following monsoon skincare guidelines: 1. Cleanse the skin regularly to remove sweat, dirt, and pollutants. 2. Apply a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated. 3. Use sunscreen consistently, even on cloudy days. 4. Avoid heavy make-up or thick creams that can clog pores. 5. Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients that support skin health. Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Kindly consult a qualified medical expert for personalised guidance.
30 July,2025 03:05 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentNearly half a kilogram of hairball has been removed from the stomach of a 10-year-old girl through surgery in Maharashtra's Amravati city after she complained of digestion related issues, doctors have said. The girl informed doctors that she had the habit of eating hair for a long time, paediatric surgeon Dr Usha Gajbhiye, from a private hospital where the minor underwent the surgery, told reporters on Tuesday. The girl was brought to the hospital 20 days back with complaints of vomiting, loss of appetite and weight loss problems since the last five to six months, she said. After her medical examination and counselling, the girl told Dr Gajbhiye that she used to eat hair. It came to light from the medical examination that the mass of hair had gathered into a ball in her stomach, the doctor said. "We decided to operate upon her, and during the surgery conducted a few days back, about half a kilogram of hairball was found in her stomach," she said. The hairball was removed successfully, and the girl is now able to eat properly and she has no other problem, Dr Gajbhiye said. The girl will be discharged soon, she 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
30 July,2025 02:20 PM IST | Amravati, Maharashtra | PTIIn today’s fast-paced world, everyone is talking, but very few are actually listening. Being truly heard is one of the deepest emotional needs we all have. Whether it’s a friend going through a rough time or just someone needing to vent, active listening can do wonders for both them and you. If you often find yourself wondering how you can be there for a friend who is struggling, or being supportive in a larger sense, it is key to remember that sometimes, what a friend truly needs isn't advice, but a non-judgmental space to be heard. International Day of Friendship is observed on July 31 every year to celebrate the uniqueness of friends. Highlighting its importance, psychiatrists delve into how powerful good listening can be. They outline simple and real tips that anyone can use to become a better listener and a dependable friend. The nuance of hearing versus listeningWhat's the main difference between just hearing someone and really listening to them? According to Dr. Pallavi Joshi, consultant psychiatrist at Manipal Hospital, Varthur Road, Bengaluru, hearing is a passive process we all engage in during casual conversations, where we might hear words without truly processing them. "In contrast, listening requires an intentional and conscious effort. It involves paying full attention, putting aside your own thoughts for the moment, and focusing on what the other person is trying to say," she explains. This deeper engagement includes understanding, processing, and even reflecting on what’s been said, like confirming, “Is this what you’re trying to say?” When a friend needs genuine support, they are often looking for more than just someone to hear them; they want a safe space to share, a vent buddy, or simply a human presence that validates their feelings. Simple ways to show you're truly listeningDr. Kanishka Meel, psychiatrist consulting with Practo, suggests, "Simply start with being present, not perfect. You don’t need special training to listen well; you just need to be there." She recommends techniques like making eye contact, keeping your phone aside, and giving small nods to show you're paying attention. "Sit in a relaxed but open posture; remember not to fold your arms and never glance at the clock or your watch, as it can reflect that you are not really interested in the conversation. Your body language says a lot," she advises. To encourage a conversation, Dr Meel suggests using comforting phrases like “I’m here with you,” or “That sounds really difficult”. Even repeating a few of the words back can make the other person feel heard. "Instead of jumping in with solutions, just hold space and let them talk," she adds. Gently encourage with prompts like, “What happened then?” or “How did you feel about that?” She affirms, "Believe me, these little things create quite a safe emotional space. Research even shows that this kind of listening lowers anxiety and deepens trust." Cultivating the habit of listening firstMany of us want to quickly give advice or fix problems when a friend talks to us. How can we learn to just listen first instead of trying to solve things right away? "It’s a matter of practice and conditioning," says Dr Joshi. She recommends making it a habit to give people, especially those who matter, at least 20 minutes of uninterrupted attention each day, "That means no phones, no TV, just being fully present." She proposes the “15 and 5” method, “Let the other person talk for 15 minutes while you listen attentively, then spend the last 5 minutes reflecting and validating their feelings." This practice helps resist the urge to rush into problem-solving. "In today’s fast-paced world, we often want to give quick solutions and move on, but relationships require time and patience... It’s not just about fixing the problem—it’s about truly being there," she adds. Common listening mistakes to avoidWhile listening is important, Joshi points out common pitfalls such as looking at your phone, texting, or getting distracted, that can hamper the process. These actions make the other person feel unheard or unimportant. She also warns against shifting topics suddenly, bringing up unrelated past events, or blaming the person for their problems, which can make them feel worse. Interrupting is another issue. "It may seem harmless, but it can signal disinterest... Interruptions can also make someone feel their issue isn’t serious." She highlights the inappropriate use of "paradoxical intention," where a challenge is issued (e.g., "Okay, go ahead, let’s see how you do it" in response to "I want to die") in emotionally vulnerable situations. Joshi also advises avoiding "GOCHI": Guilt, Over-involvement, Criticism, Hostility, and Indifference. "If someone is opening up to you, don’t feel guilty or overly responsible, don’t criticise them, show indifference, or respond with hostility. Being a good vent buddy means avoiding all of these." Understanding "holding space"Both doctors emphasise the concept of "holding space." Dr Joshi explains, “It refers to establishing a secure, accepting setting where people feel free to express themselves. It’s a space where the conversation remains confidential and the person speaking knows they’re being truly heard." The listener gives their full attention, listens actively, and does not interrupt or judge. "In psychiatry, we often call this a 'ventilation box' or a 'vent buddy'—someone who simply holds space and allows the other to release what’s on their mind," she clarifies. Showing empathy without fixingHow can we show a friend empathy without necessarily agreeing with their choices or trying to "fix" their situation? Dr Joshi suggests various simple and supportive ways to show empathy. These include small gestures like cooking their favourite meal or bringing them food, or a gentle touch such as holding hands or a comforting pat. "You can offer to go with them to a mental health appointment, remind them to take their medication, or just check in on how they’re doing emotionally," she adds. Helping with daily chores, especially during difficult times, is another form of support. Crucially, Dr Joshi states, "You can be honest and say, 'I might not be the right person to solve this, but I’m here to listen,' and guide them to someone who can help. That’s what being a vent buddy is all about—not fixing the problem but simply being there.” How good listening strengthens friendships and mental well-beingDr Meel explains, "When someone truly listens to you, it feels like a hug for your mind. It builds trust, closeness, and a sense of being valued.” This positive emotional impact is also scientifically backed. "Studies show that strong social support improves mental health, lowers stress levels, and even helps physical well-being. When we feel seen and understood, our body’s stress hormones like cortisol go down. So yes, good listening is not just emotional support, it's biological care too!" When professional help might be needed"It’s important to recognise when your friend might need more than just someone to talk to," advises Dr Meel. She lists signs like persistent sadness, no interest in things they used to enjoy, poor sleep or appetite, or talking about feeling hopeless. If these symptoms are present, it might be time to gently suggest professional help. "You don’t need to solve anything, just show care," Dr Meel explains. You could say, “You’ve not seemed like yourself lately, and I’m genuinely worried. Have you thought about talking to someone who can help professionally?” She emphasises keeping it kind and non-judgmental, assuring that "your concern will mean the world to them." Bringing up therapy can feel tricky, but Dr Meel suggests choosing a calm moment, speaking with warmth, and avoiding labelling their emotions. "Try saying something like, 'sometimes it helps to talk to a therapist; they can really offer support in ways friends can’t. I can help you find someone if you’d like.'" She reminds, "asking for help isn't a weakness. In fact, it’s strength. Offer to help with research or even go with them if they feel unsure." Your first step towards active listeningDr Meel offers a powerful skill: reflective listening. When your friend shares something, say it back in your own words. For example, you can say, ‘So you’re feeling frustrated because work is just not giving you a break?'. She acknowledges, "It may feel awkward at first, but it works like magic. The other person feels truly understood, and your bond gets stronger. The more you practice this, the more natural it becomes, and your conversations will start to feel more meaningful." To sum it up, active listening doesn’t require fancy techniques or deep psychology. It just requires your attention, your empathy, and your heart. When you listen with genuine care, you don’t just help someone else, you build deeper, more resilient relationships for life. So next time a friend opens up, don’t worry about what to say. Just be there, that’s more than enough.
30 July,2025 01:18 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalSalt warning labels on menus in restaurants may help diners rethink over high-salt meals and make healthier choices, according to a study. It may also be a key strategy to fight cardiovascular diseases as well as kidney damage caused by a high-salt diet. In a first-of-its-kind research, a team from the University of Liverpool in the UK compared people ordering at a restaurant after seeing salt warnings with those who received a menu without warnings. The findings, published in the journal The Lancet Public Health, showed that warning labels are perceived by consumers as effective in discouraging the selection of high-salt items. Warning labels also prompted greater awareness of salt content when ordering, and significantly reduced the amount of salt actually ordered. "Our study has found that salt warning labels on menus help people make healthier choices," said lead author Dr. Rebecca Evans, Postdoctoral Researcher in Psychology at the varsity. "Given that excess salt intake is a leading cause of diet-related disease, this kind of labeling policy could play a vital role in improving population health." The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends less than 5 grams per day of salt (roughly under a teaspoon) or below 2g of sodium per day. Each year, 1.89 million deaths are associated with excessive salt consumption. The salt content of many common foods eaten in restaurants is very high, but policy options to address this are lacking. Studies have proved that too much salt in the diet can increase blood sodium, trigger water retention, increase blood volume, raise blood pressure (hypertension), leading to stroke, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, osteoporosis, and obesity. The research included both an online and a real-world randomised controlled trial (RCT), with findings supporting the potential of menu labeling as a scalable public health strategy. In the restaurant setting, 454 participants took part, and those who received the salt warning labelled menus ordered 12.5 per cent (0.54g) less salt on average relative to people who received menus without warning labels, said the researchers. In the online RCT with 2,391 UK adults, salt warning labels were perceived by participants as effective in discouraging the selection of high-salt items and reduced the amount of salt ordered by 0.26g per meal. Across both trials, labels were found to be equally effective regardless of age, sex, or education level -- suggesting the intervention may be helpful for all and therefore will not exacerbate health inequalities. "This study demonstrates that even small nudges at the point of purchase can encourage healthier choices," added Dr. Evans. 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
30 July,2025 11:11 AM IST | Mumbai | IANSADVERTISEMENT
