Long-term exposure to air pollution particles like PM2.5 can prove to be detrimental to memory and cognition in people of all ages, finds a study, even as the air quality in the national capital continues to remain in the poor category. On Saturday morning, a layer of smog covered Delhi-NCR with the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national Capital registering a 'poor' rating. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi's average AQI was 294 at 7:30 A.M. on Saturday, with 18 areas reporting AQI levels above 300, indicating a 'very poor' category. The peer-reviewed study based on 8,500 children found that air pollution caused by ammonium nitrate -- which is usually a result of agricultural and farming operations -- can lead to poor learning and memory performance in children between 9- and 10 years of age. “The specific component of fine particle air pollution, or PM2.5, ammonium nitrate, is also implicated in Alzheimer’s and dementia risk in adults, suggesting that PM2.5 may cause neurocognitive harm across the lifespan,” noted the findings appearing in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives. Ammonium nitrate is formed when ammonia gas and nitric acid, produced by agricultural activities and fossil fuel combustion, respectively, react in the atmosphere. Megan Herting, an associate professor of population and public health sciences at the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California (USC) called “for more detailed research on particulate matter sources and chemical components”. Understanding the nuances can help in regulating air quality & decoding long-term neurocognitive effects, Herting said. For the study, the team used special statistical techniques to look at 15 chemical components in PM2.5 and their sources. They found ammonium nitrate as a prime suspect. 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.
02 November,2024 04:35 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSWhile poor sleep during pregnancy and after that is common, Canadian researchers suggested cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBTi), which can not only improve sleep patterns but also address postpartum depression. The team from the University of British Columbia Okanagan and Vancouver campus University of Calgary showed that CBTi, which can detect thoughts, behaviours, and sleep patterns that lead to insomnia, during pregnancy can significantly prevent the risk of postpartum depressive symptoms after a baby arrives. The therapeutic intervention includes challenging or reframing misconceptions and restructuring habits to improve sleep quality. Dr. Elizabeth Keys, an Assistant Professor in UBCO’s School of Nursing noted that early intervention with CBTi may be crucial both for the baby and the mother. Keys said that CBTi -- the gold standard for the treatment of insomnia -- is similar to antidepressant medications. Since it comes with fewer side effects, the therapy is considered safe in pregnancy. Postpartum depression (PPD) is a mood disorder that can affect women and men after childbirth. It can impact a person's behaviour and physical health. Crying more than usual, feeling angry, distant from the baby, doubting the ability to care for the baby, and thoughts of harming the baby or yourself are the common symptoms. The study included 62 women assessed for insomnia and depressive symptoms. While half were randomly assigned to an intervention group, the others were added to a control group. Keys found that the results, which appear in the issue of the Journal of Affective Disorders, were “enormously encouraging” and can help all women who have struggled in the early days with their newborns. Keys said the next thing is to find ways to “make the treatment more accessible to pregnant individuals to improve sleep health equity.” 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.
02 November,2024 02:15 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSA low-sugar diet in pregnancy, which if continued in the first two years of life can meaningfully reduce the risk of chronic diseases in adulthood, according to a new study. The study led by the US and Canadian researchers provides compelling new evidence of the lifelong health effects of early-life sugar consumption. Children who had sugar restrictions during their first 1,000 days after conception had up to 35 per cent lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. It can also reduce as much as 20 per cent the risk of hypertension as adults, revealed the study published in the journal Science. Diabetes and hypertension (high blood pressure) are the most common non-communicable diseases driving a significant health burden across the globe. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends no added sugars for children under two and not more than 12 teaspoons (50g) of added sugar daily for adults. Notably, exposure to sugar restrictions in utero alone was enough to lower risks, but disease protection increased postnatally once solids were likely introduced. If followed this can save costs, extend life expectancy, and, perhaps more importantly, quality of life, said the researchers from the McGill University in Montreal, and the University of California, Berkeley, who examined how sugar rationing during World War II influenced long-term health outcomes. Besides raising annual medical expenditures, earlier diagnosis of diabetes also means significantly shorter life expectancy, with every decade earlier that a diagnosis of diabetes is made cutting three to four years off of life expectancy. These numbers underscore the value of early interventions that could delay or prevent this disease, the researchers noted. Even as consumption of excessive amounts of added sugars during children’s early life, a critical period of development continues to mount the study raised concerns about children’s long-term health While adjusting child sugar consumption is not easy as added sugar is everywhere, even in baby and toddler foods, they called on policymakers to hold “food companies accountable to reformulate baby foods with healthier options and regulate the marketing and tax sugary foods targeted at kids.” 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.
02 November,2024 01:51 PM IST | New Delhi | IANS
Like every year, International Brain Tumour Awareness Week is being observed from October 26 to November 2, 2024. This initiative was started by the International Brain Tumour Alliance (IBTA) in 2005. Any form of malignant tumour is dangerous and can't be ignored. It is no different for brain tumours. According to the Asian Heart Institute, Brain Tumour Foundation of India, and other research papers, the number of people affected by brain tumours in India is estimated to be between 40,000 and 50,000 annually. This number includes both adults and children. Recognising the widespread lack of awareness about brain tumours among the general public, midday.com reached out to Dr Kaustubh Mahajan, Consultant Neurologist, SL Raheja Hospital, Mumbai and Dr. Ravikiran Vutha Consultant Neurosurgery, Apollo Hospital Navi Mumbai to shed some light on brain tumours. What are the causes of brain tumours?Vutha: The causes of brain tumours are complex and often elusive, as they can stem from a variety of factors, some of which remain unidentified. Clinically, genetic mutations are a primary cause, where the DNA within brain cells undergoes abnormal changes, leading cells to grow uncontrollably and form a tumour. Some individuals may inherit genetic conditions like neurofibromatosis, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, or Von Hippel-Lindau disease, which increase their risk for brain tumours. Additionally, prolonged exposure to ionising radiation, often from medical treatments like radiotherapy, is linked to a higher risk. For many, the cause remains unknown, making it challenging to implement preventive measures. The lack of clarity on the causes can be emotionally taxing for patients and families, as it leaves them grappling with "why" this happened, underscoring the importance of psychological support in treatment. Mahajan: There's no definite cause for any particular brain tumour. But usually, we divide them into genetic causes and environmental causes. But most of the tumours, we don't find the cause, in that some environmental causes are mainly related to radiation exposure, like x-ray radiation, atomic radiation, and the one that can be coming from phones or network towers. Are there different types of brain tumours?Vutha: Yes, brain tumours are varied and classified into two main categories: primary and secondary. Primary brain tumours originate within the brain itself and include both benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous) forms. Some common primary types are:● Gliomas: Including astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, and glioblastomas, these arise from glial cells and are often aggressive.● Meningiomas: Typically benign, these tumours arise from the meninges, the layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord.● Medulloblastomas: More common in children, these malignant tumours form in the cerebellum and can spread through the cerebrospinal fluid.Secondary (metastatic) brain tumours originate elsewhere in the body, such as the lungs or breasts, and spread to the brain. This classification informs treatment plans, as benign tumours may only need observation or limited surgery, while malignant tumours often require a multi-faceted approach involving surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Each type has unique characteristics and impacts, affecting patients' daily lives in different ways, from cognitive functions to mobility. Mahajan: The different types of brain tumours are divided basically from where they arise in the brain, and from which cells they arise. There are many different types of cells in the brain, like glial cells, which cause glioma, and meningeal cells, which are the covering of the brain, which cause meningioma. Pneumos are the most common type of brain tumours. Also, we can divide these brain tumours into grades. Where grade 1 and grade 2 are low-grade tumours, called benign or non-cancerous tumours, while grade 3 and grade 4 are high-grade tumours, which can be classified as malignant or cancerous tumours 3. What are the early signs and symptoms of brain tumour?Vutha: Early symptoms of a brain tumour are often nonspecific, meaning they can be mistaken for more common health issues. Persistent headaches, especially those that worsen upon waking or with coughing and sneezing, are a hallmark sign. Additionally, changes in vision or hearing, unexplained nausea or vomiting, memory lapses, and difficulty with coordination or balance may occur. As the tumour grows and affects specific brain regions, symptoms may intensify, causing muscle weakness, seizures, or speech difficulties. The varied presentation of these symptoms makes it crucial for patients and their loved ones to seek medical evaluation promptly, as early detection can improve outcomes. Mahajan: Brain tumours usually give signs and symptoms from where they are arising, like which part of the brain they are coming from. In some parts of the brain, like the frontal lobes of the brain, tumours can become very large and people may not come to know, and there will be very subtle signs mild changes in behaviour, irritability without any obvious cause. Then, that can be a sign of a frontal lobe tumour, or sometimes there can be side effects, like cataract issues; there is no obvious cause of that happening, but still, you notice these patients are patients having changes in their behaviour.● Seizures: When tumours increase in size and press the adjacent normal brain tissue. And then the brain, whatever it is responsible for, that deficit is seen in the patient. So for example, you will get a seizure if the brain tumour is coming from the right side of the brain, then start getting left focal seizures, which are in the left side. Seizures are small jerky movements in one part of the body, which can sometimes increase and involve the whole body. ● Headache: It usually comes last if the brain tumour is really large and it is coming from inside and stretching the covering or obstructing the circulation of the brain or drainage of the blood in the brain. Brain parenchyma is painless. It's only the coverings of the brain when stretched, when you experience pain, or only when the venous system or the drainage system, when stretched or there is a clot, you get pain. If a person is used to having headaches, then suddenly the pattern changes, or it's a different kind of headache, or there is a sudden severity change in the headache. Patterns and decisions, or a new onset headache or early morning headaches, especially which wakes you up from your sleep. So these are what we call red flags and addiction, and neurological signs and symptoms should not be ignored and be immediately shown to a neurologist or a neurosurgeon. ● New neurological deficits: like blurred speech, imbalance, and blindness ● Vomiting: This is very important. Headaches are associated with vomiting. Otherwise common in migraines. But not when it is tumour-related. Usually, the vomiting is not associated with prior nausea. Vomiting and headaches can be classically seen early in the morning when you wake up or when it wakes you up from your sleep, and third, the nausea component before vomiting will not be there. 4. Which age group and gender is most likely to get brain tumours? Are people with a particular type of past health history more vulnerable to it?Vutha: Brain tumours can affect any age group, but the risk often correlates with age, and certain types are more common in specific demographics. In children, tumours like medulloblastomas are more prevalent, while older adults are at a higher risk for gliomas and meningiomas. Research suggests a slight male predominance in brain tumours overall, although specific tumours like meningiomas occur more frequently in women. Individuals with certain health histories, including those with previous cancer treatments (especially radiation), genetic predispositions, or family histories of brain tumours, may have heightened vulnerability. For these individuals, clinicians often advise regular monitoring, as early signs can otherwise go unnoticed, potentially leading to late-stage diagnosis. Mahajan: Yes, people who have risk factors for cancer, like smoking or having certain habits like tobacco, then definitely have cancer in the body, which can spread in the brain. Sometimes, the brain tumour is the first symptom, which is the seizures, and then the primary cancer is detected. Sometimes, people who have trauma frequently, like falls, bleeding tendencies in the brain, and an already existing benign tumour can bleed in the brain, which can give rise to symptoms. The cause of brain tumours is not very definite. Many times we cannot find the cause, but radiation, chemical exposures, and cancer, which can be either familial, genetic, or environmental risk factors, like tobacco and smoking. Age groups, again, certain tumours are specific to children, like retinoblastoma, which is present very acutely. Certain tumours are specific to the elderly, like benign tumours which are usually cancerous, but there is no specific rule. And even if it's a benign tumour, it will be very slowly growing, and it will present at an elderly age. So the elderly population is more prone to having tumours. 5. When should a person consult a doctor about a brain tumour? Are timely checkups advisable?Vutha: Persistent symptoms, particularly those that interfere with daily functioning—such as unrelenting headaches, sudden changes in vision or personality, or unexplained nausea—warrant prompt medical consultation. Delaying evaluation could result in a more advanced diagnosis, complicating treatment. Regular check-ups may not be common for everyone, but individuals with genetic predispositions or those previously exposed to high doses of radiation are encouraged to monitor their health more closely. Early intervention can provide more treatment options and, potentially, a more favourable prognosis, emphasising that timely action can be lifesaving. Mahajan: If any of these signs and symptoms are there, then definitely one should approach a doctor.● Headaches: Mainly if it is a headache, change headache pattern or is associated with vomiting. ● Neurological deficit in the form of deep slurring, imbalance, visual symptoms, or any particular hand that is getting weak. Hand weakening, in simple words, is paralysis, many people use the term where your hand starts getting hand or one side of the body starts getting weak, or if it is a sudden thing like suddenly your arm got weak but two minutes back, it was perfectly okay, or when you slept in the night, that time it was okay, but you woke up in the morning, it was weak. This kind of weakness is usually seen in a stroke, but in a tumour-related paralysis, it will usually be over the period, slowly over the weeks, progressing step by step. Initially, it was only the hand and the thumb that were weak. Now the whole hand has got weak. Now the whole arm has gotten weak over a period of weeks. ● Seizures, which can be catapulted, but if it is a focal seizure, then usually some people may miss it. Also Read: Tuberculosis resurges as leading infectious disease killer: Know all about the condition 6. What is the impact of a brain tumour on a person mentally and physically?Vutha: The presence of a brain tumour impacts patients profoundly, both physically and psychologically. Physically, depending on the tumour’s location and size, individuals may face challenges such as muscle weakness, seizures, loss of coordination, and sensory impairments. These physical effects can lead to decreased mobility and dependence on others for basic tasks, significantly impacting their quality of life. Mentally, the tumour or treatment may induce mood changes, cognitive impairment, memory issues, and emotional distress, creating a sense of isolation. Such challenges underscore the importance of comprehensive care, which includes physical rehabilitation and psychological support, helping patients cope with their altered abilities and emotional turmoil. Mahajan: The impact of a brain tumour is very huge, not only mentally and physically, but also on the family. The important factor that I would like to address here is that most of the brain tumours are grade 1, or grade 2, which means they are benign, where they must have been sitting for a long time and not causing any problem, and your headaches may be related to something else. So knowing whether the brain tumour is the culprit of your symptoms or it's an incidental finding on the MRI is very important. If this is not sorted out with the neurologist properly, then it is a stigma and it affects the patient mentally so much that the whole quality of life gets ruined. Knowing whether it is the culprit, whether it needs to be treated or not, and what to do for the treatment, all these things have to be sorted out with a neurologist. Sometimes, there are certain tumours that are incidental and which need not be treated but ignored and only monitored on repeated six monthly, one yearly MRIs. And sometimes the person would have grade three and grade four and just by seeing the imaging patterns, we have to do something quickly. So what usually happens in a family, if somebody had a grade one tumours, he says we just kept repeating and nothing happened. And somebody who has a grade three may think he may follow the same pattern. That is not true. So the doctor has to guide them properly and be urgent. 7. What is the severity of a brain tumour?Vutha: The severity of a brain tumour depends largely on its type, location, and growth rate. Benign tumours like meningiomas may remain stable and asymptomatic for years, while malignant tumours such as glioblastomas grow rapidly and invade surrounding tissues, often leading to significant neurological deficits. If left untreated, brain tumours can severely impair brain function, impacting everything from cognition to vital processes like breathing and heartbeat regulation. Malignant tumours can metastasise to other parts of the body or cause increased intracranial pressure, which, if unchecked, may be fatal. This highlights the urgency for early diagnosis and proactive management to mitigate the potential life-threatening effects. Mahajan: We divide brain tumours into 4 grades which are Grade 1, 2, 3, 4, and this is a WHO grading. Grade 1 and 2 are low-grade gliomas, anything that is above 2, that is, 3 and 4, are high grade gliomas that will turn out to be malignant, or, in simple words, cancerous. That's why they have to be treated. Grade 1 and Grade 2 turn out to be the same and usually non-cancerous, which can be monitored over time and need not be touched if they are not causing any symptoms. If the symptoms are fixed, then we will usually manage it only with medicines. We may not touch the tumour, we may not operate, but in grade three, grade four, even if it is not causing any symptoms, we have to remove it because over the period, it will increase and cause a lot of harm. 8. What is the post-operation care schedule that people and their families need to follow? Are there any possible side effects they need to be aware of?Vutha: Post-surgical care is essential for recovery, as it aids in minimising complications and supporting overall health. Rehabilitation therapies, including physical, occupational, and speech therapies, often become part of the recovery routine to help regain lost functions and manage potential side effects like fatigue, weakness, or cognitive challenges. Regular follow-up visits and imaging (CT or MRI scans) are typically advised to monitor for signs of recurrence. Side effects from surgery can include swelling (edema), seizures, or infection, making it crucial for family members to stay informed and vigilant. Emotional support and patience from loved ones are invaluable during this phase, as patients often experience mood changes or frustration with their pace of recovery. Mahajan: Post-operation, just immediately after the surgery, you will be getting a set of dos and don'ts. Okay. Mainly regarding when to have a proper bath and when to wash your head. So usually, after a brain surgery, the hair is cut. They don't have hair, and the suture site can be sometimes irritating or itching, so instructions like what has to be done for that? What clean has to be applied? All these sets of rules are given. Other than things you have to watch for in a postoperative patient is mainly that Is the headache increasing? Earlier, it was not there. Or any new neurological deficit that was not there now has started to come, like the speech was pretty okay after surgery, but now the speech has started to become slurred or the headache was not there, but now the headache has started. Or an imbalance has started or seizures have started. So anything of this sort, neurologically, uh, new issues have to be watched for and told to be told to the consent physician. The families have to keep a watch on the patient; if the patient has balance issues, especially when the patient gets up and the patient turns, then there should be no falls. Because the patient who's immediately postsurgery has a fall, they can bleed. So, uh, being cautious about how they move around, being there behind them, knowing when the risk of falling is more, like when they get up or when they turn. Taking care of those instances has to be warned earlier by the concerned physician so that these things don't happen. Also, if the patients might have a food pipe for their nutrition, how to feed them through a food pipe, how much amount has to be given, when that amount has to be reduced, and to ensure that there is no already food inside the tummy while giving to the food pipe next time. So all these are trained for the caregivers and attendants of the patient when they are discharged.● After an operation that a patient would go through, the side effects of the operation are mainly dependent on whether the operation is a surgical operation or a radiation treatment. Usually, when you operate surgically, there can be immediate complications, like bleeding complications. Later complications can be like seizures, which if it happens, you may have to step up the medicines or add some medicine. Radiation can cause late complications like swelling in the brain and cause some neurological issues. Or any new neurological symptoms, for that matter, or any new symptoms that have come after the surgery or radiation have to be informed to the concerned physician. Usually in the first one or three months, you have to be vigilant. 9. Can brain tumours reoccur after treatment? Vutha: Unfortunately, brain tumours can sometimes recur, particularly malignant types. Factors such as the original tumour’s grade, location, and extent of surgical removal influence the likelihood of recurrence. To address this, doctors often implement a comprehensive treatment plan involving surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy to reduce the chances of recurrence. After completing treatment, patients typically undergo regular follow-ups, including imaging studies, to detect any early signs of a tumour returning. Although the risk of recurrence can be emotionally challenging, regular check-ups and vigilant monitoring provide reassurance, allowing doctors to intervene promptly if necessary. Mahajan: Grade 1 and grade 2 don't grow rapidly, so the recurrence rate is not there. But grade 3 and grade 4, especially grade 4 tumours like glioblastoma, are rapidly growing malignant brain cancer tumour even after removing radiation or even after chemotherapy, and they are likely to regrow. tumours do regrow, especially if they come into the grade three or grade four category. 10. Are there support resources available for patients and their families who have been through the process?Vutha: Yes, there is an array of resources available to help both patients and their families. Many hospitals offer access to social workers, support groups, and counselling services to assist with the emotional and logistical challenges of a brain tumour diagnosis. National organisations, such as the Brain tumour Foundation, provide educational materials, peer support networks, and assistance with navigating healthcare services. Additionally, online forums and local support groups can provide a sense of community and shared experiences. These resources play a vital role in helping patients and families cope with the emotional impact, manage daily care needs, and find solidarity in the shared journey of healing. Mahajan: Yes, there are support groups, brain tumour societies, which do counselling, and similar patients with similar problems can meet online or offline.
02 November,2024 12:57 PM IST | Mumbai | Joy ManikumarAs Diwali celebrations light up homes and streets across India, eye care professionals are urging the public to take extra precautions to prevent eye injuries and allergies caused by firecrackers and smoke exposure. Firecracker-related accidents, especially during Diwali, result in numerous eye injuries each year, with many leading to permanent vision impairment if not treated promptly. Recent statistics reveal that Diwali sees a significant rise in eye trauma cases, particularly among children and young adults. Careful handling and protective measures are essential to protect eyesight during this festive season. Dr Supriya Sriganesh, phaco and refractive surgeon, executive director, Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital, stated, “Most eye injuries during Diwali are caused by firecracker explosions in close proximity, leading to burns, corneal abrasions, and, in severe cases, even partial or complete blindness. Accidents can happen within seconds, and unfortunately, many of these injuries can cause irreversible damage to vision.” Dr Supriya stressed the importance of maintaining a safe distance of at least five metres from firecrackers and wearing protective eyewear to mitigate the risk of injuries. She also advised against holding the cracker in your hand as much as possible, as it increases the risk of fumes entering your eyes and causing instant irritation and subsequent complications. In addressing the common injuries seen during Diwali, she explained, “During Diwali season, we very often see patients with burns and lacerations in their eyes at our round-the-clock emergency department. While minor cases might be treated with eye drops and antibiotics, serious injuries often require surgical intervention and prolonged treatment by specialists. It's essential to remember that any delay in treatment can lead to complications, increasing the risk of partial or complete vision loss. Hence, it is important to visit a specialist eye care center at the earliest.” In addition to firecracker injuries, the high levels of smoke and particulate matter during Diwali can cause severe eye irritation, especially in individuals with pre-existing conditions like dry eye or allergies. Eye experts recommend keeping the eyes hydrated with lubricating eye drops and avoiding prolonged exposure to smoky areas to reduce irritation. They also urge those celebrating to keep their hands clean at all times, as the tendency to rub eyes vigorously due to smoke exposure can result in severe eye infections. During the ongoing festival season, eye care professionals recommend using protective glasses to prevent overexposure to harmful chemicals, hydrating yourself to avoid succumbing to eye fatigue, using air purifiers indoors to enhance the quality of the air inside your home, and finally consulting a doctor if any injury occurs. Raising awareness and taking simple precautions can go a long way in preserving eye health and ensuring a safe and joyous Diwali for all.In case you or your dear ones suffer any eye injuries, kindly reach out to the emergency number +91 98451 95898.
01 November,2024 03:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIndia has one of the highest levels of treatment coverage for tuberculosis, among the 30 high TB burden countries, revealed a recent report by the World Health Organization (WHO). The report showed that India is among seven of 30 high TB-burden countries -- Brazil, Mozambique, Papua New Guinea, Sierra Leone, Uganda, and Zambia -- with more than 80 per cent of treatment coverage in 2023. The country also achieved a significant increase in the number of people receiving preventative therapy for household contacts of TB patients and people living with HIV, the report showed. According to the report, 12.2 lakh people in India were put on preventive therapy in 2023, up from 10.2 lakh in 2022, and 4.2 lakh in 2021. While TB medicines are expensive and the therapy may continue for as long as two years, increasing household expenditures, the government is currently offering free drugs. The treatment was successful in 89 per cent of the people with drug-susceptible TB; 73 per cent of those with an infection resistant to one of the common medicines rifampicin or resistant to multiple drugs; and 69 per cent of those with extremely drug-resistant TB. India aims to end TB by 2025, five years ahead of the global target, but the country reported 28 lakh TB cases, accounting for 26 per cent -- the highest -- global TB burden. India also reported an estimated 3.15 lakh TB-related deaths, accounting for 29 per cent of the deaths globally. The report also showed a narrowing of the gap in the estimated number of cases and the number of people actually getting diagnosed. India reported 25.2 lakh cases in 2023, increasing from 24.2 lakh the previous year, the report said. Globally, the WHO report noted that TB again emerged as the leading infectious disease killer in 2023, surpassing Covid-19. In 2023, about 8.2 million people were newly diagnosed with TB -- the highest number and a notable increase from 7.5 million reported in 2022. 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 November,2024 03:39 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSIn a bid to curb the rising superbug outbreaks in hospitals, a new study on Thursday suggested broader screening of all patients, irrespective of their risk. A team of researchers at the Mount Sinai Brooklyn Hospital in the US conducted a study to compare screen results and patient outcomes before and after adopting a broader screening method that includes all patients, and not just high-risk ones. The study focussed on screening protocols for Candida auris -- a dangerous and often drug-resistant fungal pathogen that spreads easily in hospital environments. It was first identified in 2009 and is now found around the world. The results, published in the American Journal of Infection Control, showed that expanding screening helped in the early detection of cases, enabling infection prevention and control teams to isolate them before they could infect other patients or contaminate shared hospital equipment. While broader screening catches more cases, it requires more resources and can be impractical in healthcare facilities where patients cannot easily be isolated while results are generated. "Early identification of patients colonised with C. auris allows us to protect other patients and helps to prevent the spread of the pathogen to the hospital environment and shared equipment," said Scott Lorin, president of Mount Sinai Brooklyn. "When you consider how many other people they came into contact with during their hospital stays, that's a lot of patients kept safer by the implementation of broader screening. This expanded screening protocol has allowed us to detect Candida auris cases earlier, helping us prevent potential hospital outbreaks," Lorin said. The study was triggered by the case of a single patient, who was admitted to Mount Sinai in 2022 and diagnosed with a C. auris infection after more than two months at the hospital. As the patient was classified as low-risk, the hospital did not screen for C. auris upon admission. After diagnosis, the hospital conducted a full outbreak investigation, testing 118 people who were directly exposed to the patient or shared equipment with the patient. The investigation identified eight additional patients who tested positive for C. auris. "Expanded screening is an effective infection prevention practice that should be considered at all hospitals, particularly in areas where this pathogen has been circulating," Lorin 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.
01 November,2024 11:01 AM IST | New Delhi | IANS
According to the Global Tuberculosis Report 2024 released by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on October 29, approximately 8.2 million people were newly diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB) in 2023—the highest number recorded since WHO began global monitoring in 1995. This is almost a 9 per cent increase from 7.5 million cases reported in 2022, leading to TB returning to its place as the top infectious disease killer in 2023, which was temporarily occupied by Covid-19. Approximately 1.25 million people died due to TB last year. Another worrisome finding in the report is that the global burden of TB cases lies primarily in 30 countries, with India leading at 26 per cent, followed by Indonesia (10 per cent), China (6.8 per cent), the Philippines (6.8 per cent) and Pakistan (6.3 per cent).As the prevalence of TB raises alarms and public health systems globally strive to combat the disease, mid-day.com speaks to Dr. Kamlesh Pandey, Consultant Chest Physician, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, and Dr. Pujan Parikh, Consultant - Pulmonary Medicine, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai, who explain the causes, symptoms, effects, and treatment of this global health burden.What is Tuberculosis and how is it caused? Is it a chronic disease?Pandey: Tuberculosis is caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium Tuberculosis. This bacteria is very common in India. People who get infected with this bacteria do not always develop this disease. It remains latent in the body, and whenever immunity goes down, it can evolve into a disease. This is called latent TB.TB is a chronic disease. In patients left untreated, it behaves like a disease and gradually can spread to other organs as well.Parikh: Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium Tuberculi. TB infection is broadly classified into pulmonary - when lungs are involved (85%), and extrapulmonary, when organs other than lungs are involved (15%).How does TB affect the body? Pandey: TB can affect multiple systems of the body. The most common form of TB is pulmonary TB, in which the bacteria affect the lungs. But there is also brain TB, spine TB, abdominal TB, etc.Parikh: TB can affect any organ of the body. In India, 85 per cent of TB cases are related to the lungs and 15 per cent other organs. TB causes necrosis of the affected organ.What are some symptoms of TB that one must look out for? Pandey: The symptoms appear depending on the organ system involved. For example, if it's brain TB, a person can have persistent headaches, vomiting, or even develop seizures. If it is pulmonary TB, a person can get chronic fever, weight loss, blood in sputum, etc.Parikh: Common symptoms of TB are persistent cough for more than 3 months, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, persistent low grade evening rise fever, chest pain, and occasionally blood in sputum. When organs other than the lungs are affected, TB gives rise to symptoms related to that organ.Is there any group of people who are more vulnerable to the disease? Pandey: Any patient who is immunocompromised, i.e., someone whose immunity is on the weaker side, is more at risk. This weak immunity can be due to multiple factors, like the presence of other chronic diseases like diabetes, chronic kidney or lung diseases, etc. In our country, diabetes is on the rise, which is a major risk factor for TB. Another important risk factor for TB is low body mass index (BMI).Parikh: Immunocompromised patients like HIV patients, patients on chemotherapy, and diabetics are more vulnerable to TB.How can one differentiate between common cold and TB symptoms? Pandey: TB develops gradually, so symptoms appear over a period of time. They gradually start losing weight and develop a cough that is not getting treated even with medications.On the other hand, common cold or cough develops acutely. With medications, people recover within 7-10 days.Parikh: Symptoms of the common cold usually settle in a few days, whereas symptoms of TB persist for long, like cough, which persists for more than 3 months even after taking routine medications. Along with cough, weight loss, loss of appetite, and persistent low-grade evening rise fever are also found in TB infection.How dangerous can TB prove to be? Is it treatable? Pandey: If TB is diagnosed early, it is usually 100 per cent treatable. But a lot of times, diagnosis is delayed. Complications of TB start appearing as it starts affecting multiple organs. There’s another case where the bacteria is resistant to the commonly-used anti-TB medications. These cases are difficult to treat and need longer treatment.If untreated or diagnosed at a dangerous stage, TB can lead to mortality.Parikh: TB can severely damage lungs, leading to fribrobronchiectasis. Untreated TB can lead to infertility also. TB is actually one of the most common causes of infertility in India. Untreated TB can even lead to the death of the patient.The disease can be treated if proper treatment as per drug sensitivity is started on time.Can TB be prevented? If yes, please share some tips. Pandey: TB is a communicable disease. If active TB patients are diagnosed early and treated, that is the best form of prevention for other people. Those who are diagnosed should follow proper cough hygiene, like covering the mouth with a mask or handkerchief. Active screening of active or latent TB symptoms and subsequent treatment is important.For the common public, focusing on nutrition is extremely important. What we see is that a lot of young people skip breakfast to go for classes and work. It compromises their immunity. In my practice, I have found a lot of young, college-going people getting TB, and this has been a prevailing risk factor.Parikh: Keeping good hygiene, taking nutritious food, and wearing a mask in crowded places helps to reduce the risk of getting a TB infection.
01 November,2024 10:37 AM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainH5N1 bird flu has been confirmed in a pig in the United States for the first time, said the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). The farm has been quarantined to prevent further spread of the virus. Other animals on the farm, including sheep and goats, remain under surveillance, the USDA said on Wednesday. The Oregon Department of Agriculture said last Friday that the first H5N1 case was detected in a pig at a farm in the state, reports Xinhua news agency. USDA's National Veterinary Services Laboratories confirmed Tuesday that one of the farm's five pigs was infected with H5N1, the first detection of H5N1 in swine in the United States. The farm is a non-commercial operation, and the animals were not intended for the commercial food supply. "There is no concern about the safety of the nation's pork supply as a result of this finding," said USDA in a statement. Two field safety trials have been approved for vaccine candidates designed to protect dairy cows from H5N1, it 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
31 October,2024 03:00 PM IST | Los Angeles | IANSFresh, slivered onions served on Quarter Pounders and other menu items from McDonald's are the likely source of E. coli outbreak in the United States, said the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). A total of 90 cases caused by E. coli have been reported across 13 US states as of Wednesday, including 15 new cases, according to the latest CDC data. Among these cases, 27 were hospitalised and one died, reports Xinhua news agency. The CDC said more illnesses have been reported, but they are from before McDonald's and Taylor Farms took action to remove onions from food service locations. Due to the product actions taken by both companies, the CDC said it believes the risk to the public is very low. E. coli are bacteria found in many places, including in the environment, foods, water, and the intestines of people and animals. Most E. coli are harmless and are part of a healthy intestinal tract. However, some E. coli can make people sick with diarrhoea, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, sepsis, and other illnesses, according to the CDC. 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 October,2024 02:46 PM IST | Los Angeles | IANSWhile earlier age menopause is known to be detrimental to a woman’s health, a new study on Tuesday showed that a later age at natural menopause can pose a greater risk for asthma. Asthma is a common, chronic disease affecting more than 300 million people worldwide. Multiple studies have suggested a possible link between asthma and sex hormones. Most notable is the fact that adult-onset asthma is more common in women than men. While in childhood, asthma is more prevalent in boys, after puberty, asthma occurs more often in girls. Women also tend to have more severe asthma and are less likely to have remission of the disease. The study, published online today in Menopause, the journal of The Menopause Society, suggested the role of natural oestrogen and synthetic oestrogen, such as those used in hormone therapy. The study researchers found that women with early menopause (which occurs between 40 and 44 years of age) are at a reduced risk of asthma, which led them to suggest the role of oestrogen in raising asthma risk. The study showed that women who used hormone therapy had a 63 per cent increased risk of asthma, while those who stopped the therapy were two times more likely to quit asthma treatment. “This study highlights sex-based differences in asthma, with women at a greater risk for asthma than men in adulthood. It also showed that women with later onset of menopause are at greater risk than those with early onset of menopause,” said Dr. Stephanie Faubion, medical director for The Menopause Society. “Clinicians should be aware of this link and should monitor women with later age at natural menopause for asthma symptoms,” Faubion added. Higher body mass index was also found to be a risk factor for women, but not men, because fat produces oestrogen. The study is based on 10 years of follow-up data from more than 14,000 postmenopausal women. Also Read: ‘I was always exhausted’: Things about menopause that no one prepares you for 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 October,2024 12:39 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSADVERTISEMENT
