According to the World Health Organization, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide, causing 3.5 million deaths in 2021. One common symptom and effect of COPD is difficulty in breathing. Certain kinds of exercises are not advisable in this situation. However, with the right exercise routine, individuals can improve lung function, strengthen muscles and enhance overall quality of life. In a conversation with mid-day.com, Dr Sarat Behera, Sr Consultant, Critical Care and Pulmonologist, Manipal Hospital, Bhubaneshwar, shares effective exercises that can help improve the condition. Breathing exercises within tolerance: Practice breath control to maximise oxygen absorption and minimise dyspnea. Breath control techniques such as abdominal breath and pursed-lip breath are capable enough to reduce the impact of dry breath and enhance lung capacity. Yoga and pranayama: Yoga, in particular pranayama (breathing workouts), can be beneficial for people with COPD. It can help lower blood pressure, expand the lungs and induce calmness. Muscle tightening exercises: A strategy to improve strength and endurance involves tightness/relaxation of the muscles in arms, legs, and torso. The exercises help blood flow and relieve fatigue causing better movement. Aerobic exercise (moderate intensity): Things like walking, cycling and dancing help the heart and lungs. Aerobic exercise performed regularly is good for the heart and people with COPD and increases general endurance. Resistance training: Resistance training is also valuable, as weights and bands help to strengthen muscles critical for breathing and posture, both vital components of function with COPD. Guidelines for people with COPD While certain exercises can help improve COPD, one should keep the following guidelines in mind, according to Dr Behera. Avoid intense or prolonged breathing effort: Do not do anything that troubles you breathing or any exercise that puts a lot of stress on lungs. Make sure to listen to your body and pull back if anything feels uncomfortable. Maintain a healthy weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can ease the burden on lungs and heart. Obesity aggravates the respiratory distress whereas good weight ensures better functioning of lungs. Also Read: Air pollution behind surging lung cancer in non-smokers in India: Experts Working out for 30 to 40 minutes four times a week is advisable. Additionally, Dr Behera recommends, “Avoid exposure to dust and pollutants that can trigger COPD symptoms by opting for outdoor spaces like parks or open areas. Regular exercise, when done safely, can really improve your quality of life and control over the COPD.” Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only. Consult a qualified medical expert for personalised guidance.
25 November,2024 07:49 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAfter facing severe backlash from oncologists across the country for claiming diet can cure cancer, former cricketer and Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu on Monday informed that his wife underwent surgeries, chemotherapy, hormonal and targeted therapy, along with a strict diet plan inspired by ancient Indian Ayurveda to fight cancer. Sidhu had in a recent press conference in Amritsar, Punjab, Sidhu described his wife, Navjot Kaur's treatment for her stage 4 breast cancer as "starving cancer by not eating dairy products and sugar". In the widely circulated video on social media, Sidhu said that his wife “consumed haldi (turmeric) and neem which helped cure her ‘incurable’ cancer. Following this, several oncologists, including from Tata Memorial Hospital and AIIMS, Delhi slammed Sidhu for spreading misinformation and stated that there is no scientific evidence to prove it. They also pointed out Kaur’s previous chemotherapy sessions. “My wife's cancer journey involved surgeries, chemotherapy, hormonal and targeted therapy, positivity and determination to fight cancer which was facilitated by a strict diet plan inspired by ancient Indian Ayurveda, the noble prize winning research of Yoshinori Ohsumi for 'discoveries of the mechanisms for autophagy' and observations of eminent doctors worldwide,” Sidhu shared in a post on X. Diet Plan pic.twitter.com/BGmJfSMoo3 — Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) November 25, 2024 He also shared the detailed diet plan, which included alkaline water, a concoction comprising cardamom, holy basil, (tulsi), mint, ginger, and cinnamon, intermittent fasting, a concoction of turmeric, lemon water, and neem leaves, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. It included juice of ash gourd, oranges, a concoction of either Soursop Leaves (Hanuman Phal) or Night jasmine (Harsingar), and a salad containing tomato, spinach, mushroom, carrot, onion, and more. The diet plan also had pulses and legumes and complete avoidance of "any form of refined carbs, refined sugar, refined oils, milk products, and any kind of packed food containing preservatives; and aerated drinks". All food cooked for Kaur was made in "cold-pressed coconut oil, mustard oil, or olive oil". She also consumed quinoa rotis, homemade almond milk, coconut milk, or coconut curd. In addition, Kaur followed regular exercise in the form of walking, and yoga. Doctors noted that “neem and turmeric may have potential health benefits, but there is no scientific evidence that they can cure cancer”. They urged for integrating diet as a complementary approach rather than a standalone solution. Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified medical expert for personalised guidance. Also Read: 'No single magic formula for cancer,' say oncologists slamming Navjot Singh Sidhu's recent claims on wife's treatment This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
25 November,2024 04:42 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSThe decision by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to ban the use of some antibiotics in animal food products will help curb the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), according to a new report. In October, the FSSAI banned the use of some antibiotics used in the production of meat, meat products, milk, milk products, poultry, eggs, and aquaculture. The ban in usage of antibiotics will enhance the quality of livestock farming in India. This regulatory decision is a crucial move to safeguard public health and curb the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which renders certain bacterial infections increasingly difficult to treat with standard medications among consumers, said GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company. “Being one of the major producers and exporters of milk, eggs, fish, and poultry meat, India needs to regulate the use of antibiotics during livestock farming and production in order to sustain itself in the global market,” said Susmitha Bynagari, consumer analyst at GlobalData. Also, the country needs to keep a constant check on the usage of antibiotics in animal production to maintain the quality of the products that are exported. “This ban on the usage of antibiotics in feed using for meat and poultry is also implemented in countries like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore,” Bynagari added. India has also committed to reduce the usage of antimicrobials used in animal production by 30-50 per cent by 2030. Indian consumers also prefer healthy products, which is bolstered by a recent GlobalData survey, where 73 per cent of the Indian respondents said that well-being always or often influences while purchasing food and beverage products. This shift in consumer behaviour is driving demand for more sustainable and safer food products, said the report. “To effectively tackle the issue of AMR, the FSSAI must ensure that the ban on these usage of on antibiotics in animal production is strictly implemented across the country,” said Francis Gabriel Godad, Consumer Business Development Manager at GlobalData. A grassroots approach will be critical to achieving long-term success in reducing antibiotic use in agriculture and ultimately protecting public health, he added. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
25 November,2024 01:25 PM IST | New DelhiChemotherapy, surgery, or radiation forms the backbone of the treatment against cancer and there is no single magic formula against the disease, said oncologists on Monday while slamming former cricketer and Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu’s recent claims of his wife being cured of the deadly disease via diet. The oncologists slammed Sidhu, a former Member of the Rajya Sabha, for “creating sensationalism” and misguiding people. In a recent press conference in Amritsar, Punjab, Sidhu described his wife, Navjot Kaur's treatment for her breast cancer as "starving cancer by not eating dairy products and sugar". In the widely circulated video on social media, Sidhu said that his wife “consumed haldi (turmeric) and neem which helped cure her ‘incurable’ cancer. Also Read: 'Unproven remedies': Tata Memorial Hospital slams Navjot Singh Sidhu’s viral ‘diet cure’ cancer claim “Cancer is not one disease, treated by a single magic formula. The treatment strategy is based on the subtype of cancer, specific genetic changes in the particular cancer cells, organ of origin, extent of spread of disease at the time of diagnosis and host of factors,” Dr. Harit Chaturvedi, Chairman - Max Institute of Cancer Care, told IANS. “The treatment of cancer is because of either chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. This forms the backbone of the treatment. The other adjuncts, like the diet control or diet rearrangements or the natural ingredients, cannot replace the treatment,” added Dr. Pritam Kataria, Consultant, Medical Oncology, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital. In the press conference, Sidhu revealed that his wife was given a 5 per cent chance to survive. However, she overcame stage 4 cancer following a simple dietary and lifestyle regimen. After Sidhu’s viral video, oncologists claimed that he had done major harm to society by misguiding people over the disease which claims more than 9 lakh lives annually in India. Notably, Sidhu had in June tweeted about Kaur successfully undergoing chemotherapy sessions under “Dr.Rupinder Batra (Former Tata Memorial Oncologist) at Waryam Singh Hospital, Yamunanagar”. In an open letter, posted on LinkedIn, Dr. Abhishek Shankar, Assistant Professor, Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr BR Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital at AIIMS, Delhi called out the former cricketer for spreading misinformation. “We expect a lot from a public figure like you when it comes to overcoming the myth among the general population to boost cancer care in India. Despite the best efforts, more than 9 lakh people are dying from cancer every year in India, and the reason for many deaths is misinformation,” Shankar said. “The general public might lose the best opportunities to get cured by just adopting your advice seriously,” Shankar said. He noted that “neem and turmeric may have potential health benefits, but there is no scientific evidence that they can cure cancer”. “The idea that ‘sugar feeds cancer’ oversimplifies how the body and cancer cells use energy. Eliminating sugar from the diet will not starve cancer cells but may lead to nutritional imbalances and that may be fatal for cancer patients. A balanced diet is crucial for maintaining strength and supporting treatment outcomes and may contain sugar and dairy products,” he added in the letter. Many other oncologists claimed that Sidhu’s video promoting home remedies for cancer has done “long-term harm to society”. With the video going viral in WhatsApp groups, more people are likely to choose home remedies over proper cancer treatment, resulting in countless preventable deaths. “Claims of curing cancer through diet alone lack scientific validation. Treatment plans should integrate diet as a complementary approach rather than a standalone solution, tailored to the individual’s cancer type and overall condition,” Dr. Mandeep Singh Malhotra, Director of Surgical Oncology at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, told IANS. “We appeal to the people not to get misguided by such stories that lack scientific and data scrutiny. Such anecdotes are generally not shared with honesty for any good but are shared to create sensationalism,” Chaturvedi said. Also Read: ‘It was shocking’: How to manage being a family caregiver for a cancer patient This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
25 November,2024 01:09 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSWorld Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) is observed annually from November 18 to 24 to raise awareness about Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and prevent its spread. Many people, when experiencing minor ailments like a cough, sore throat, or fever, often rush to pharmacies to purchase antibiotics without consulting a doctor. Moreover, they discontinue the antibiotics after one or two doses instead of completing the prescribed course. Such practices contribute to AMR, where antibiotics lose their ability to effectively treat infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. This condition makes infections harder to treat and poses significant public health risks. Dr Arcy Billoria, Microbiologist at Aster Prime Hospital, explained the risks associated with antibiotic misuse and offered essential guidance to combat AMR. AMR leads to prolonged infections, increased mortality rates, and the spread of multidrug-resistant organisms or "superbugs." The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified AMR as one of the top 10 global health threats. According to the Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (GRAM), AMR causes approximately 1 million deaths annually and could result in 39 million deaths by 2050 if left unaddressed. One of the leading causes of AMR is the misuse of antibiotics. Many people take antibiotics without a prescription, discontinue them prematurely, or use leftover medication. Billoria emphasised that such behaviour must stop. Antibiotics should be used only under a doctor’s guidance, in the prescribed dosage, and for the recommended duration. She suggested people to stop practices like demanding antibiotics from doctors unnecessarily, taking antibiotics prescribed for others and using leftover or expired antibiotics. Runny noses, sore throats, and diarrhoea are typically caused by viruses and do not require antibiotics. Antibiotics work against bacteria, not viruses. Using them unnecessarily can disturb the body’s natural bacterial balance and lead to resistance. Vaccination can prevent bacterial infections, reducing the need for antibiotics. Ensuring good hygiene practices like regular handwashing and covering the mouth while coughing or sneezing can also prevent infections. Dr Billoria urged everyone to use antibiotics responsibly to preserve their effectiveness for future generations and avoid a health crisis caused by resistant infections.
25 November,2024 12:59 PM IST | Hyderabad | IANSAmid poor air quality in the national capital, doctors on Friday warned that the air pollutants, besides causing respiratory and cardiovascular issues, can also lead to weight gain, contribute to rising obesity rates, and also affect hormonal health. The air quality in Delhi-NCR on Friday morning was reported to be in the ‘very poor’ category with a thin layer of smog engulfing the region. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi's average air quality index (AQI) at 7.15 a.m. remained at 371. In seven areas of Delhi, the AQI level remained above 400 and between 450. The AQI was 410 in Anand Vihar, 411 in Bawana, 426 in Jahangirpuri, 402 in Mundka, 410 in Nehru Nagar, 402 in Shadipur, and 413 in Wazirpur. “Air pollution can affect weight gain by altering metabolism and can also affect hormonal health. Air pollution causes metabolic disorders that can lead to weight gain. It can also cause inflammation which leads to obesity,” Dr. Shailly Sharma, Senior Consultant and Associate Director, Obstetrician and gynaecologist, at Cloudnine Hospital, said. “Air pollution can precipitate sedentary behaviour because it can cause certain respiratory symptoms like coughing, and shortness of breath, which can restrict physical activity and precipitate weight gain. It also increases insulin resistance, leading to weight gain and obesity,” Sharma said. Recent studies show that prolonged exposure to air pollution which contains particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide, could lead to systemic inflammation and metabolic disturbances -- key in weight gain and obesity. A meta-analysis published in BMC Public Health in July found that air pollution can impact metabolic function by influencing inflammation in fat tissue, increasing oxidative stress, and altering individual dietary habits. Breathing toxic air affects immune function and breathing pathways. This raises inflammation markers and increases oxidative stress. Dr. Vikas Mittal, Pulmonologist and director, Department of Respiratory Medicine, CK Birla Hospital told IANS that while there have been reports about air pollution affecting metabolism, leading to metabolic syndrome and obesity, the exact mechanism by which air pollution affects metabolism and hormonal health is not known. “It could be because air pollution is an irritant and it can cause inflammation in the airways, and then leads to the secretion of inflammatory markers in the body and blood, which then affects various organs, and thus can lead to increase the change in the hormonal milieu and increase in the pro-inflammatory markers. This can lead to worsening of cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes -- an important part of anybody having metabolic syndrome,” the doctor explained. Studies have shown that long-term exposure to the pollutants in the air can disrupt hormones, causing imbalance and also leading to reduced conception rates and overall fertility. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
24 November,2024 02:32 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSProlonged standing at work had a negative impact on blood pressure and in contrast, spending more time sitting at work was associated with better BP, a new study has revealed. The Finnish study from University of Turku, published in the journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, suggests that activity behaviour during working hours may be more relevant to 24-hour blood pressure than recreational physical activity. “Rather than any single measurement, 24-hour blood pressure is a better indication of how blood pressure stresses the heart and blood vessels throughout the day and night,” says doctoral researcher Jooa Norha. If blood pressure is slightly high throughout the day and does not fall sufficiently even at night, blood vessels start to stiffen and the heart has to work harder to cope with the increased pressure. “Over the years, this can lead to the development of cardiovascular disease,” Norha added. In the Finnish Retirement and Aging study (FIREA) conducted at the University of Turku, the physical activity of municipal employees approaching retirement age was measured using thigh-worn accelerometers during working hours, leisure time, and days off. In addition, the research participants used a portable blood pressure monitor that automatically measured their blood pressure every 30 minutes for 24 hours. The results confirm previous findings that physical activity at work can be harmful to the heart and circulatory system. In particular, prolonged standing can raise blood pressure as the body boosts circulation to the lower limbs by constricting blood vessels and increasing the pumping power of the heart. “A standing desk can provide a nice change from sitting at the office, but too much standing can be harmful. It's a good idea to take a break from standing during the work day, either by walking every half an hour or sitting for some parts of the day,” Norha said. In addition, the results of the study suggest that sedentary work in itself is not necessarily harmful to blood pressure. Instead, researchers stress the importance of recreational physical activity for both office and construction workers. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
24 November,2024 01:35 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSAfter a video of former cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu surfaced in which he described his wife's treatment for her breast cancer as "starving the cancer by not eating dairy products and sugar", Tata Memorial Hospital doctors on Saturday warned that diet alone is no cure for the disease, which requires a range of medical interventions. Oncologists at Tata Memorial Trust, in a post shared on X, said: "Diet alone is not a cure for cancer. While it plays a crucial role in supporting treatment and improving outcomes, cancer cure typically requires medical interventions like surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies. Nutraceuticals and dietary changes can enhance the effectiveness of these treatments by targeting cancer pathways and improving the patient’s overall health. However, claims of curing cancer through diet alone lack scientific validation. Treatment plans should integrate diet as a complementary approach rather than a standalone solution, tailored to the individual’s cancer type and overall condition." Sidhu in a video, widely circulated on social media, had said that his wife starved the cancer by not eating dairy products and sugar and consumed haldi (turmeric) and neem which helped cure her "incurable" cancer. He said she ate her first meal of the day at 10 a.m. and the last meal of the day at 6.30 p.m. To this, the Tata Memorial doctors said: "These statements have no high-quality evidence to support them. While research is ongoing for some of these products, there is no clinical data currently to recommend their use as anti-cancer agents. We urge the public to not delay their treatment by following unproven remedies, but rather to consult a doctor, preferably a cancer specialist, if they have any symptoms of cancer. Cancer is curable if detected early and proven cancer treatments include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy." At least 262 oncologists (present and past, from Tata Memorial Hospital) signed the statement. “Make this go viral. We have to keep fighting misinformation,” the Tata Memorial said.
24 November,2024 01:25 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSDo you often wake up in the morning feeling tired? Worry not, because celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar has a few tips for you. Many people consider mornings to be the most active time of the day. Feeling energetic after waking up can not only boost mood but also set the tone for what is to follow. Taking to Instagram, Diwekar shared a reel, revealing tips to wake up with more energy. “The only way to get more energy in the morning is to sleep better. And the only way to sleep better is to have a proper dinner. And the only way to have a proper dinner is to have it three hours prior to bedtime,” she said in the video. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rujuta Diwekar (@rujuta.diwekar) Further elaborating on how food choices and habits can impact sleep and energy levels in the morning, she said, “The way to ensure that you are not overeating that meal three hours prior to bedtime is to plan what you are going to eat between 4-6 PM in the evening a week ahead of time.” “Wrong food consumption usually occurs between 4-6 PM. This happens because one doesn’t decide in advance what they have to eat. So, sit every Sunday and plan what you are going to eat during this time in the week,” she added. In an earlier video, Diwekar had advised people to have a fresh homemade meal between 4-6 PM every day. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rujuta Diwekar (@rujuta.diwekar) She gave the following three reasons why this is essential: It helps to unwind and de-stress. It reduces late-night cravings. It allows you to have a smallish dinner so that you sleep well. About Rujuta Diwekar Rujuta Diwekar is a Mumbai-based nutritionist, fitness and wellness expert, and author. She has worked with celebrities like Kareena Kapoor, Karisma Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan, Anupam Kher and Richa Chadda. She has authored several books on eating right and busting food myths.
23 November,2024 01:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentGynaecological cancer, which originates in a woman’s reproductive system, requires early detection for accurate and timely treatment. Understanding symptoms is key to navigate the condition. It affects one of the following organs – ovaries, uterus, cervix, vulva or vagina. In a conversation with mid-day.com, Dr Surabhi Siddhartha, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Kharghar, shares five types of gynaecological cancer that every woman should be aware of. Five types of gynaecological cancer Ovarian cancer Also known as a “silent killer”, ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries in women. Dr Siddhartha informs, “It usually goes undetected until it spreads to other parts like the pelvis and abdomen.” Symptoms include: Bloating Pain in the pelvic area Inability to eat or swallow Frequent urge to pee Uterine cancer Also called endometrial cancer, uterine cancer starts in the lining of the uterus. Dr Siddhartha suggests to look out for the following symptoms: Abnormal bleeding in the vagina particularly after menopause Vaginal discharge Difficulty having bowel movements Loss of appetite Sudden weight loss Changes in your menstrual cycles. “People with PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome), obesity, certain age groups, and family history are at higher risk of being detected with this particular cancer,” she further informs. Cervical cancer This cancer starts in the cervix. Dr Siddhartha explains, “Cervical cancer is often linked with HPV (human papillomavirus) infection in women. Detecting cervical cancer at an early stage can be difficult as most of the women do not experience visible symptoms. This is why it becomes crucial to go for routine pap smear tests for early diagnosis and timely intervention.” As cervical cancer progresses, one may start to notice the following symptoms: Vaginal bleeding Extreme pelvic pain Unusual discharge “Being vaccinated against HPV infection can help reduce the risk of cervical cancer,” the doctor adds. Vulvar cancer This cancer tends to affect the external genitalia in women, known as the vulva. Some common symptoms include: Persistent itching Pain Significant changes in the skin around that area Lumps and sores. “Dealing with these symptoms can be overwhelming and frustrating. Many tend to ignore these symptoms as minor inconveniences or infections that may get better with time. This can delay the diagnosis,” cautions Dr Siddhartha. Also read: ‘I was always exhausted’: Things about menopause that no one prepares you for Vaginal cancer A rare type of cancer in women, vaginal cancer develops in the vaginal walls. “Recognising its symptoms becomes essential to minimise the damage caused,” says Dr Siddhartha, sharing the following symptoms: Lump in the vagina Spotting or bleeding after intercourse Vaginal bleeding Unusual discharge Difficulty in urinating Visible swelling in the legs. Various risk factors can increase one’s likelihood of developing this particular type of gynecological cancer. “The risk factors may include people of a certain age, those who were previously diagnosed with cervical cancer, significant exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES), weakened immune systems and smoking,” she concludes. Regularly visiting your gynaecologist can help detect these cancers on time, facilitating proper treatment. Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified medical expert for personalised guidance.
23 November,2024 12:09 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentLung cancer is significantly on the rise among non-smokers in India, and air pollution is a major contributing factor, said experts amid the continued poor air quality in the national capital. After eight days of severe air pollution, Delhi on Thursday saw slightly improved air quality. At 7 am, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 379, placing the city in the “very poor” category. “While traditional risk factors for lung cancer include smoking cigarettes, pipes, or cigars, exposure to secondhand smoke, radon, air pollution, asbestos, and family history are the major reasons for lung cancer in non-smokers. Long-term exposure to particulate matter can trigger mutations in lung cells, leading to uncontrolled cell growth,” said Dr. Ashish Gupta, Chief of Medical Oncology, at Unique Hospital Cancer Centre, said. A recent study published in the Lancet's eClinical Medicine Journal showed that most lung cancer patients in India are non-smokers. It is due to increased exposure to air pollution. It also showed that lung cancer cases are also manifesting in India about 10 years earlier as compared to Western countries. “The rising levels of air pollution in India have become a significant contributor to the increasing cases of lung cancer. Prolonged exposure to pollutants like PM2.5 and toxic gases damages lung tissue and raises cancer risk,” Dr. Rahul Bhargava, Principal Director of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, told IANS. Importantly, Gupta said that lung cancer in non-smokers is often different from lung cancer in smokers. It usually remains asymptomatic, meaning there are no initial symptoms, leading to late detection. “The most common type of lung cancer in non-smokers is adenocarcinoma, which usually starts in the outer areas of the lungs,” the doctor said. Despite the slight improvement seen in Delhi, several air monitoring stations across the national capital still recorded AQI levels above 400, which is categorised as “severe”, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The agency said that Jahangirpuri and Wazirpur saw the highest readings at 437, Bawana at 419, and Ashok Vihar and Mundka registered 416. The rising air pollution has also spiked several respiratory disorders like asthma and Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the capital. “The number of patients reporting breathing problems has risen by approximately 20 per cent compared to last month, with most cases involving individuals with preexisting respiratory conditions exacerbated by pollution-induced inflammation,” Dr. Harsh Mahajan, Chair of FICCI-Health and Services, told IANS. He noted that while X-rays often appear normal, complications can arise if bacterial or viral infections coexist. Children, with their underdeveloped immune systems, are especially vulnerable to persistent conditions like asthma and allergies. To avoid further deterioration of health, the experts urged the need to adopt preventive measures, such as wearing N95 masks, limiting outdoor activity as much as possible, and using home air purifiers to improve indoor air quality. They also advised people to closely monitor their health, look for symptoms like breathlessness, persistent cough, or chest pain, and seek immediate medical assistance, if necessary. Adopting a well-balanced diet that is rich in antioxidants and maintaining proper hydration is also important to boost the immune system and shield oneself from the long-term health impacts of air pollution. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
22 November,2024 11:00 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSADVERTISEMENT
