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Mumbai: Mother with uterine fibroid gives birth to child in complex delivery

Doctors in Mumbai have successfully performed an elective caesarean section (LSCS) of a 37-year-old woman with a 13-cm uterine fibroid, give birth to her child.  The patient, who had conceived naturally for the first time after eight years of marriage, was ecstatic to start her journey towards motherhood. However, during her initial scan, a huge intramural fibroid on the uterus was identified, with apprehension regarding the progress of the pregnancy and eventual delivery method. In spite of the diagnosis, all scans including nuchal translucency (NT) scan, double marker, and anomaly scan were normal. At 12 weeks, she had a low pulsatility index (PI) of bilateral uterine arteries, for which low-dose aspirin (75 mg) was started to improve placental blood supply and foetal growth. During the course of pregnancy, the mother had intermittent bursts of severe backache due to the enlarging fibroid. The doctors at Narayana Health SRCC Children's Hospital treated these conservatively with 650 mg of Paracetamol twice daily. Aspirin was discontinued at 32 weeks according to obstetric practice. By 36 weeks, a growth scan had confirmed the fibroid's severe obstruction of the birth canal, and vaginal delivery was considered impossible. With the malpresentation and the central position of the fibroid on the anterior wall, an elective LSCS was planned, with full appreciation of the likely surgical challenges. Dr Kekin Gala, consultant obstetrics and gynecology, at the hospital said, "This was a very difficult case because of the location of the fibroid. It was in the very area where classical and lower segment incisions are usually made, making it a dilemma. We had to plan a modified incision pathway to deliver the baby safely." During intraoperative management, the surgeons identified a minor spot below the fibroid and cautiously made the cut in that space. After a successful delivery, the team made a deliberate choice to delay myomectomy to another time, to avoid causing intraoperative morbidity. The patient had an uneventful recovery and was discharged within 72 hours. The family and patient expressed their appreciation. "We waited eight years to experience this beautiful moment, so we were initially apprehensive when we heard of the fibroid and the possible complications. But the Narayana Health SRCC team tackled the issue with so much calm and confidence that we were reassured. Their professionalism gave us the biggest blessing —a healthy baby," the new mother said. Dr Zubin Pereira, facility director at the hospital added, “Pregnancy fibroids are known to complicate gestation and delivery and create malpresentation, pain, obstructed labour, as well as heightened surgical risks. A well-coordinated effort and preoperative planning by our hospital medical team, were crucial in the prevention of a bad outcome.”

25 July,2025 05:33 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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Monsoon skin SOS: Why your skin's acting out, and how to bring back the balance

The monsoon in India brings a refreshing respite from the heat, but it often brings a host of skin troubles too. The increased humidity, fluctuating temperatures, and dampness can throw your skin's balance completely off-kilter, leading to breakouts, fungal infections, and irritation.  To understand why your skin's acting out and how to restore its calm, mid-day spoke to Dr Mikki Singh, dermatologist and cosmetologist, founder and medical director at Bodycraft Clinics, and Dr Prachi B. Bodkhe, dermatologist at Envi Aesthetics.The humidity huddle: Why monsoon triggers breakoutsEven if you don't typically battle acne, the monsoon's high humidity can unleash a wave of breakouts. Mikki Singh explains the science behind this phenomenon, "Increased humidity during the monsoon season causes your skin’s sebaceous (oil) glands to become overactive.”  She outlines two major issues: Occlusion of pores: Sweat and humidity mix with sebum, dirt, and dead skin cells, clogging pores.Altered skin microbiome: The moist environment encourages overgrowth of cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes), leading to inflammation and breakouts.“Even dry or normal skin types may start overproducing oil as a compensatory mechanism, especially when indoor air alternates between dampness and air-conditioning. Individuals who normally don’t struggle with acne can suddenly experience breakouts during this season,” Singh explains.  Monsoon skincare pitfalls: Steer clear for healthy skinWhile proper care needs to be paid during the monsoon, one must also not overdo it. Prachi B. Bodkhe lists key pitfalls to steer clear of:1. Over washing the face: Stick to washing twice a day with a mild cleanser.2. Skipping moisturiser: Use a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer. Alternatively, you can use hyaluronic acid-based serums and cover it with hydrating sunscreens.3. Heavy makeup: Use breathable, non-comedogenic makeup, or skip it when possible. Alternatively, you can use tinted sunscreens.4. Linen care: Not changing towels and pillowcases often.5. Ignoring footwear-related hygiene: Use open footwear whenever possible. Dry your feet thoroughly and use antifungal powders wherever needed.Your monsoon skincare arsenal: A daily routine for oily and acne-prone skinTo combat oiliness and prevent breakouts, a targeted skincare routine is crucial.  Singh recommends the following daily regimen:MorningCleanser: Use a gentle foaming cleanser with salicylic acid (1 to 2 per cent) or tea tree oil to unclog pores and reduce oil.Serum: Lightweight, non-comedogenic serum with niacinamide (5 per cent) or azelaic acid (10 per cent).Moisturiser: Gel-based, non-comedogenic, oil-free moisturiser with hyaluronic acid.Sunscreen: Matte-finish, gel-based broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+).EveningDouble cleanse: Use micellar water or a gentle oil cleanser followed by a foaming salicylic acid face wash.Treatment: Spot treat with benzoyl peroxide (2.5 per cent) or a retinoid (like adapalene 0.1 per cent) at night. It is recommended to consult a doctor before starting a retinoid.Moisturise: Non-comedogenic moisturiser with ingredients like ceramides or centella asiatica.Ingredients to avoidHeavy creams, petroleum-based products, and alcohol-based toners. Avoid layering too many actives (e.g., AHA + retinoid) without guidance—it can increase sensitivity.The fungal factor: Preventing and recognising monsoon infectionsFungal infections like ringworm and athlete's foot flourish in the humid monsoon climate. Singh outlines key preventative measures and early warning signs:Preventative measures1. Keep skin dry, especially in folds (groin, underarms, toes).2. Change wet clothes and socks immediately after exposure to rain.3. Use antifungal powders (clotrimazole or ketoconazole-based) in high-sweat areas.4. Avoid synthetic or tight clothing—opt for breathable cotton.5. Footwear hygiene: Use open-toed sandals when possible and disinfect shoes regularly.Early signs to watch1. Ringworm: Red, circular, itchy rashes with raised edges—typically on groin, thighs, or chest.2. Athlete’s foot: Scaling, peeling, or itching between the toes, often with a foul odour."Always consult a dermat especially if the itch worsens, spreads, or doesn't improve in 5–7 days of over the-counter treatment," Singh advises. Beyond hygiene: Lesser-known triggers for monsoon rashesIt's not just about cleanliness. Several environmental and lifestyle factors contribute to monsoon-related skin rashes. Singh sheds light on these often-overlooked culprits:Environmental triggers:1. Wearing damp clothes and shoes for prolonged hours may lead to frictional dermatitis.2. Allergens in rainwater (pollutants, bacteria) may trigger eczema or contact dermatitis.3. Increased indoor mould from moisture may cause flares in atopic or sensitive skin.Lifestyle habits:1. Over-cleansing due to the sticky feeling strips skin barrier, causing irritation.2. Skipping moisturisers paradoxically worsens oil production and sensitivity.3. Using hot water baths frequently exacerbates dryness and inflammation.Home treatments (for mild irritation):1. Calamine lotion for soothing irritation.2. Cold compresses and fragrance-free moisturizers.Professional intervention is required if:1. Rash spreads rapidly or becomes painful.2. There is oozing, crusting, or fever.3. No improvement within 3 to 5 days of home care.As always, consult a dermatologist before the condition gets worse.Tackling excessive sweating (Hyperhidrosis) in monsoonFor those experiencing excessive sweating, the monsoon can be particularly challenging. Bodkhe offers strategies to manage hyperhidrosis and prevent associated skin issues saying, "During the monsoon, many people experience excessive sweating, especially in areas like the underarms, back, and groin. This, along with tight clothing, can lead to clogged pores, sweat rashes, and infections (folliculitis).”  Bodkhe recommends:1. Antiperspirants over deodorants: Switching to antiperspirants from deodorants helps by reducing sweat output. Apply them at night for best results.2. Antibacterial cleansers: Shower daily with antibacterial cleansers. Benzoyl peroxide-based soaps and cleansers work best to keep odour in check.3. Professional treatments: Botulinum toxin works wonders for axillary and palmoplantar hyperhidrosis (sweating over palms and soles). Iontophoresis is one more easily available and less invasive approach.The sunscreen imperative: Don't skip it on cloudy daysA common misconception is that sunscreen isn't needed on cloudy or rainy days. Bodkhe clarifies why broad-spectrum sunscreen remains non-negotiable during monsoon, "UV rays are present year-round, and up to 80 per cent of UV rays can penetrate clouds, so sunscreen is a must.”  1. Look for sunscreens labelled SPF 30 or higher with 'broad-spectrum' protection.2. Opt for gel-based, mineral, or hybrid sunscreens that are oil-free, lightweight, and won’t clog pores.3. Remember to reapply every 2 to 3 hours if outdoors.Nurturing sensitive skin during monsoon's fluctuationsSensitive skin can be particularly prone to irritation and flare-ups due to the fluctuating monsoon weather.  Bodkhe advises on protecting and caring for delicate skin:1. Avoid experimenting with new products during this season.2. Stick to gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturisers.3. Use ceramide-based creams to strengthen the skin barrier and protect against environmental irritants.4. Dry properly after getting wet, as rainwater can be slightly acidic and full of pollutants.5. Use light, hydrating serums, then seal in with a non-greasy moisturizer.6. Keep indoor areas ventilated and use organic air purifiers if needed.

25 July,2025 02:15 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai Agarwal
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International Self-Care Day: Why your mind deserves daily self-care

While the conversation around mental health has broadened over the years, self-care as a concept has been marketed in ways that lead you to think of it as spa treatments and luxurious indulgences. Understandably, it can be pleasurable to go on a holiday, but true self-care can be practiced daily, is critical for your mental health and far more accessible.  Every year, International Self-Care Day is observed on July 24 to highlight the role of self-care in life. While every person knows of the concept, people do need a reminder often, so mental health experts delve into how self-care is different from pampering yourself. They also highlight the benefits of digital detox and emotional check ins, and share practical strategies to help you include self-care in your everyday lives The essentials of self-care: Beyond pamperingDr Aparna Ramakrishnan, consultant, psychiatry, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, defines self-care, "Intentionally and consciously taking action to maintain or improve your physical, mental and emotional health. It is taking care of yourself so that you have enough resources to lead a healthy, happy, functional life and develop resilience to face life’s challenges. The core focus of self-care, is on long-term benefits and wellbeing." Self-care encompasses various practices. "Adequate sleep, rest and relaxation, nutritious and healthy dietary practices, regular physical activity and exercise, adequate stress management, mindfulness practices, developing a better and healthy relationship with oneself, maintaining a work-life balance and taking well-earned breaks from time to time, setting boundaries for emotional wellbeing and seeking professional help and therapy if required,” says Ramakrishnan, while stressing, "Self-care is consistent, routine based, necessary." Self-care versus pampering: Understanding the differenceWhile often confused, self-care and pampering serve different purposes. "Pampering oneself can be a part of self-care, but self-care has much broader dimensions than pampering. Pampering involves indulging in practices which provide immediate pleasure and comfort. It’s not always essential, but makes one feel good. Examples include shopping for yourself, taking a luxurious bath, getting massages or spa treatments, luxurious vacations. The rewards are immediate, but short term and temporary," explains Ramakrishnan. She highlights, "Maintaining a balance between consistent self-care and occasional pampering is important for a healthy happy life." The crucial role of self-care in mental healthSelf-care plays a significant role in maintaining everyday mental health and building resilience. “It actively reduces stress and anxiety levels reducing the risk of developing mental health disorders like depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse or even burnout. Furthermore, self-care practices reduce stress hormone levels which improve resilience, make us responsive not reactive to stressors and life’s challenges hence buffer us against chronic stress and its side effects," shares Ramakrishnan. Self-care also improves physical health which enhances our mood and improves our coping skills. She adds, “Self-care is instrumental in emotional regulation, allowing us to pause, reflect on our emotions, process them and respond adequately to situations rather than just react to them." This, in turn, helps in enhancing calmness, prevents us from being overwhelmed by our emotions and prevents burnout. It also makes up more equipped to deal with and bounce back from setbacks. Beyond emotional benefits, self-care empowers individuals to set boundaries, prioritise our needs, say no and not overcommit to things. “This practice increases self-respect, gives us a sense of agency, enhances self-compassion that I too deserve care which leads to increased self-esteem which is essential for survival," she poses. Ultimately, Ramakrishnan emphasises, "Self-care is not selfishness. It’s like recharging your mind before it burns out and making it strong enough to face life’s challenges." Recognising when to seek professional helpHow can individuals identify when their self-care efforts are insufficient and when it might be time for professional help? Dr. Ajit Dandekar, head and consultant – mental health (psychiatry and psychology), Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai provides a helpful checklist of early warning signs. If you answer "Yes" to any of these questions, it may be time to seek professional support:1. Do little things irritate me?2. Do I have trouble sleeping or wake up tired?3. Do I feel drained out, worried a lot, or trapped?4. Do I snap frequently at those I love?5. Has my output/efficiency gone down or have I been making a lot of mistakes in my professional work lately?6. Do I suffer from physical symptoms more frequently?7. Have I withdrawn from activities or people?8. Do I have persistent sadness or hopelessness?9. Do I have difficulty in concentrating?10. Is there appreciable increase in the use of substances like coffee, cigarettes, alcohol etc.?11. Do I have a change in appetite (undereating or overeating or unplanned weight changes)?12. Have I lost interest in things which I would usually find enjoyable? "If the answer to any of the above questions is Yes then it is time for us to seek professional help without any further delay. A stich in time saves nine. Otherwise sitting on the problem and leaving the stress unattended can lead to various serious physical, psychophysiological, psychological, interpersonal or professional consequences,” urges Dandekar. Setting healthy digital boundaries In today’s world, an essential aspect of self-care is setting digital boundaries. This means intentionally and consciously limiting the time and energy you spend with technology, including phones, TVs, video games, and other online activities.As Ramakrishnan shares ten practical ways to implement these boundaries:1. Set no-screen times: Avoid screens for at least 30 minutes after waking up, during meals, and for an hour before bedtime.2. Utilise app timers: Use features like digital well-being tools to set limits on social media apps.3. Manage notifications: Turn off non-essential notifications to reduce distractions.4. Take detox breaks: Plan periods away from social media, such as a full day or a weekend.5. Curate your feed: Unfollow sites, accounts, or people that trigger negative emotions, and curate your social media content to only include what genuinely adds value to your life.6. Designate screen-free zones: Establish areas in your home, like the bedroom, or situations, such as meet-ups with friends, where screens are not allowed.7. Set boundaries with people: Inform contacts about your availability and learn to say "no" to constant accessibility.8. Maintain work-life balance: Log out of work devices after hours, respond to work-related activities only during work hours, and consider having separate devices for work and personal use if possible.9. Practice mindful scrolling: Be intentional about how you engage with online content.10. Use Do Not Disturb (DND) mode: Activate DND, especially during sleep hours or when spending time with family and friends. The power of emotional check-insEmotional check in is also an important aspect of self-care. “It’s taking a moment, a mindful, conscious pause from our busy routine to analyse how we feel in that very moment – emotionally, physically, mentally without judging ourselves for that. This activity helps us to recognise and process emotions without letting them overwhelm us, dealing with them in a healthy way instead of ignoring or suppressing them, responding to the feelings and not just reacting impulsively and hence making healthy choices in any situation. This helps in emotional regulation, stress reduction and building resilience and self-esteem,” explains Ramakrishnan.It can be done anytime during the day, but especially if you aren’t feeling too good or are stressed. A quick way to do this is to stop what you are doing, close your eyes, focus on your breath for 10 seconds. Ask ‘what am I feeling right now?’ Name the emotion specifically. Don’t judge the emotion or yourself for feeling it. Scan your body to recognise where the tension is. Again, do not judge. Just observe. Ask yourself what could have brought this feeling about- with curiosity. Tell yourself ‘It’s ok to feel like this, what can I do to feel better right now’. Take a small action like a deep breath, a call to your loved one, a quick note about what you are experiencing at present.Emotional check ins prevent emotions from building up and causing anxiety and outbursts. They give us emotional clarity and help in emotional regulation. They also help us develop self-compassion. Practical strategies for daily mental self-careSelf-care is not just about spa treatments, luxury vacations, or indulgence. It plays a significant role in maintaining everyday mental health and building resilience. It actively reduces stress and anxiety levels reducing the risk of developing mental health disorders, and improves physical health which enhances our mood and improves our coping skills. Dandekar lists ten practical, low-cost mental self-care strategies:1. Mind-body connection: Engage in practices like mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing, and yoga. These harmonize mind and body, reduce stress, and foster self-acceptance. Short breathing exercises (2 to 3 minutes) can be done anytime.2. Journaling and gratitude: Write down thoughts and feelings for clarity, identify patterns, and celebrate small wins. Consider a gratitude diary, noting three things you're grateful for daily, or scheduling a dedicated "worry time."3. Engage your mind: Stimulate intellectual growth and reduce anxiety through reading, learning something new, or solving puzzles.4. Connect with nature: Spending time outdoors has a calming effect. Walks in a park, gardening, or even just 5 minutes of sunlight exposure can lift your mood and reduce mental fatigue.5. Express through creativity: Engage in art, music, dance, singing, or playing an instrument. These activities stimulate emotional expression and release pent-up emotions healthily. Instrumental music is recommended for focus, while singing and dancing are powerful, primitive forms of expression.6. Manage digital consumption: Practice limiting screen time (digital detox) to prevent mental overload and encourage healthier sleep. Set no screen times (e.g., before bed, during meals), use app timers, turn off non-essential notifications, and curate positive social media content.7. Prioritise physical well-being:- Regular physical exercise: Just 30 minutes of walking every day can boost your mood and improve your health.- Eat healthy, regularly, and stay hydrated: Focus on a balanced diet and hydrate yourself to nourish your body and mind.- Make sleep a priority: Aim for at least 6 to 7 hours of sleep. Reduce blue light exposure from devices before bedtime.8. Set boundaries and goals: Decide what must get done now, what can wait, and what can be let go. Learn to say a polite but firm ‘no’ to new tasks when you're taking on too much.9. Cultivate positivity and gratitude: Identify and challenge your negative and unhelpful thoughts with opposite positive thoughts, a practice known as Pratipaksha Bhavana in yoga. Remind yourself daily of things you are grateful for and appreciate your accomplishments.10. Foster connection and virtue: Reach out to friends or family for emotional support; social interaction is beneficial. Additionally, inculcate virtues like friendliness, compassion, finding joy in others' achievements, and being indifferent to unreasonable criticism, as highlighted in yogic principles (parikarmas). Remember, innocent humour is an effective stressbuster. In a fast-paced and demanding world, taking time to care for your mental health leads to a more meaningful and empowered life. Small, consistent actions can make a big difference. “Mental self-care is not a luxury-- it is a necessity. There is nothing wrong in being selfish when it comes to self-development. It’s only when you are physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually healthy that you can help others around you,” concludes Dandekar. 

25 July,2025 01:14 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai Agarwal
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Regular exposure to air pollution may raise risk of dementia: Study

Regular exposure to air pollution, including that coming from car exhaust emissions, can increased your risk of dementia, according to an analysis of studies published on Friday. Dementias such as Alzheimer's disease are estimated to affect more than 57.4 million people worldwide, a number that is expected to almost triple to 152.8 million cases by 2050. The study, published in the journal The Lancet Planetary Health, showed that for every 10 micrograms per cubic metre of PM2.5, an individual's relative risk of dementia would increase by 17 per cent. For each 1 micrograms per cubic metre of soot as found in PM2.5, the relative risk for the cognitive condition increased by 13 per cent. Soot comes from sources such as vehicle exhaust emissions and burning wood. "These findings underscore the need for an interdisciplinary approach to dementia prevention. Preventing dementia is not just the responsibility of health care: this study strengthens the case that urban planning, transport policy, and environmental regulation all have a significant role to play," said joint first author Dr. Christiaan Bredell from the University of Cambridge. Air pollution causes inflammation in the brain and oxidative stress (a chemical process in the body that can cause damage to cells, proteins, and DNA), leading to the onset and progression of dementia. "Tackling air pollution can deliver long-term health, social, climate, and economic benefits. It can reduce the immense burden on patients, families, and caregivers, while easing pressure on overstretched health care systems," said Dr. Haneen Khreis from the MRC Epidemiology Unit. For the study, the team carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis of existing scientific literature. They included 51 studies, including data from more than 29 million participants, mostly from high-income countries. Of these, 34 papers were included in the meta-analysis: 15 originated in North America, 10 in Europe, seven in Asia, and two in Australia. The researchers found a positive and statistically significant association between particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 microns or less (PM2.5), Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and soot and dementia. Further analysis revealed that the effect of exposure to these pollutants was stronger for vascular dementia -- a type of dementia caused by reduced blood flow to the brain. 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 July,2025 12:16 PM IST | Mumbai | IANS
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Yoga may help reduce diabetes risk by 40 per cent, claims study

Even as India continues to be the diabetes capital of the world, a new study on Thursday shows yoga can prevent the risk by 40 per cent. The findings, presented by Union Minister for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, himself a noted diabetologist, highlighted the potential of yoga in preventive healthcare. The study led by the Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI) suggests 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 developing of Type 2 diabetes among potential individuals who practice yoga regularly," Singh said. The research aimed to explore the role of yoga in the prevention -- rather than just the management -- of Type 2 diabetes. It also specified certain Yoga Aasans found useful for this. Singh pointed out that most earlier studies had focused on individuals already living with diabetes, examining how yoga could reduce their dependence on medication or insulin. In contrast, this study concentrates exclusively on individuals at risk of developing the disease, such as those with a family history of diabetes, and whether the onset can be prevented altogether. “The report has been submitted for further scrutiny. As per the authors, it is based on non-clinical observations,” the MoS said. The Minister further noted that similar research is also underway under the purview of the Department of Biotechnology, where studies are being conducted on how traditional wellness interventions like yoga can contribute to preventive and therapeutic health outcomes. “This study reflects how ancient practices like yoga, when rigorously examined through scientific methods, can offer real-world health solutions. It’s a step towards strengthening preventive healthcare and building a healthier India,” 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

25 July,2025 11:51 AM IST | Mumbai | IANS
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Kolkata docs help wheelchair-bound Bangladeshi woman walk again

Doctors at a hospital in Kolkata have successfully treated a 66-year-old female patient from Bangladesh to give her a new lease of life in a complex case. The doctors at Manipal Hospital in Mukundapur performed a bilateral total knee replacement surgery under the supervision of Dr Sutanu Hazra, senior consultant & HOD – Orthopaedics, at the hospital.  The patient had been wheelchair-bound for years due to crippling knee pain, and she has developed chronic kidney failure caused by prolonged and unsupervised use of over-the-counter painkillers to manage her knee discomfort. The knee replacement surgeries were conducted by Dr Hazra on July 1 and 3, and necessitated careful cross-specialty planning because the patient had compromised kidney function. She was monitored closely by Dr Ritesh Kauntia, consultant – Nephrology, transplant physician, during the procedure to maintain renal stability, along with experienced anaesthesia and post-operative management. Despite the complexity of the case, the procedure was a huge success. To everyone's surprise, the patient started walking with support just one day after her surgery, something she had not done in years. She is now under observation and is ready for a kidney transplant in the next few weeks. Talking about the case, Dr Kauntia shared, “Over the counter pain killers and alternative medicines are one of the major reasons for kidney disease. When this patient came to me for kidney transplantation in a wheelchair-bound state, we decided to treat the root cause first i.e. get her knee surgery done so that she is pain free and mobile before we plan for kidney transplantation. This was important to avoid future use of painkillers and safeguard the new graft kidney.” Dr Hazra added, “This patient’s journey is a critical reminder that while knee or joint pain significantly hampers daily life, long-term self-medication with over-the-counter painkillers can lead to irreversible damage, not just to the kidneys, but also to the heart and gastrointestinal system. In her case, the unchecked use of analgesics resulted in kidney failure. Early consultation with an orthopaedic specialist could have prevented this progression. People shouldn’t ignore persistent joint pain or rely solely on pharmacy-based remedies. Timely orthopaedic care can address the root cause, prevent severe complications, and help preserve mobility and quality of life. It is deeply rewarding to see her walking again after years, thanks to a coordinated, multidisciplinary effort.”

24 July,2025 04:21 PM IST | Kolkata | mid-day online correspondent
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Covid-19 pandemic may have accelerated brain ageing, finds study

Experiencing the COVID-19 pandemic may have accelerated brain ageing by five and a half months, regardless of one's infection status, according to a new study, which researchers said point to the indirect effects of aspects such as isolation and uncertainty. The researchers, led by those from the University of Nottingham, analysed brain scans of adults in the UK taken before and after the pandemic. They found that changes were most noticeable among the brains of older individuals, men, and people from disadvantaged backgrounds, such as those unemployed and having lower incomes or education. However, brain ageing was found to impact cognitive function, with 'brain fog' and difficulty in focussing being common symptoms, only in those who were infected with COVID-19, suggesting that brain ageing alone may not necessarily produce symptoms. The findings, published in the journal Nature Communications, highlight "how much the experience of the pandemic itself, everything from isolation to uncertainty, may have affected our brain health," said lead researcher Ali-Reza Mohammadi-Nejad, research fellow at the university's faculty of medicine and health sciences. "What surprised me most was that even people who hadn't had Covid showed significant increases in brain ageing rates," Mohammadi-Nejad added. According to the authors, the pandemic-related brain ageing "may be at least partially reversible", but being strongly linked with socio-economic deprivation, the policies addressing inequalities are urgently needed, given that existing gaps widened during this time. AI-powered models which were used for predicting brain age were first trained on magnetic resonance image (MRI) brain scans of over 15,000 healthy people from the UK Biobank. The models thus learnt to measure the 'brain age gap' i.e. how much one's brain age differed from their actual age. The models were then employed to analyse two scans of the brains of 996 healthy participants, in 564 people (controls) both the scans were taken before the pandemic, while in the 'Pandemic' group consisting of 432 individuals, one scan was taken before and one after. "The 'Pandemic' group shows on average (a) 5.5-month higher deviation of brain age gap at the second time point, compared with controls," the authors wrote. They also found that "accelerated brain ageing is more pronounced in males and those from deprived socio-demographic backgrounds and these deviations exist regardless of SARS-CoV-2 (virus that causes COVID-19) infection." Further, cognitive tests taken at the time of both scans revealed that an "accelerated brain ageing correlates with reduced cognitive performance only in COVID-infected participants." Senior author Dorothee Auer, professor of neuroimaging at the University of Nottingham, said "This study reminds us that brain health is shaped not only by illness, but by our everyday environment." "The pandemic put a strain on people's lives, especially those already facing disadvantage. We can't yet test whether the changes we saw will reverse, but it's certainly possible, and that's an encouraging thought," Auer 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

24 July,2025 02:23 PM IST | Mumbai | PTI
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7000 steps daily may reduce risk of cancer by 6 pc, depression by 22 pc: Study

Just 7,000 daily steps can be key to reducing your risk of developing a range of chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, and cognitive issues like depression, dementia, as well as death, according to a new study published in the journal The Lancet Public Health on Thursday. The comprehensive review, including 57 studies, analysed data from over 160,000 adults, and found that walking approximately 7,000 steps per day is associated with reductions in the risk of several serious health outcomes. The 7,000 steps aided in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease (by 25 per cent), cancer (by 6 per cent), type 2 diabetes (by 14 per cent), dementia (by 38 per cent), depression (by 22 per cent), and falls (by 28 per cent). The all-cause mortality was cut down by nearly 50 per cent. Notably, while the current unofficial target of 10,000 steps per day, the study highlighted that 7,000 steps daily may be more realistic, particularly for less active people. “Although 10,000 steps per day can still be a viable target for those who are more active, 7,000 steps per day is associated with clinically meaningful improvements in health outcomes and might be a more realistic and achievable target for some,” said corresponding author Prof Ding Ding, from The Charles Perkins Centre, at The University of Sydney in Australia. The study also revealed that even modest step counts (around 4,000 steps per day) are linked to better health compared to very low activity (around 2,000 steps per day). For some conditions, such as heart disease, health benefits continued to increase beyond 7,000 steps, but for most conditions, the benefits tended to level off. However, the team also acknowledged limitations, such as the small number of studies available, particularly for cancer and dementia, and a lack of age-specific analysis and biases at the individual study level. Yet, the findings underscore the value of using daily step counts as a straightforward way to measure physical activity, the researchers said. They suggest these results could help shape future public health guidelines and recommendations, encouraging more people to track their steps as a practical way to improve their health. 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 July,2025 01:48 PM IST | Mumbai | IANS
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Compulsive nature could be why one indulges in self-sabotaging acts: Study

A person's compulsive nature could be the reason why such individuals indulge in self-destructive behaviour, making harmful choices despite knowing the obvious negative outcomes, according to a new study. The study, published in the journal Nature Communications Psychology, also found that making compulsive decisions did not appear to be random mistakes or people having "bad days". "They're stable traits — almost like personality types. This is not to say they're fixed, just that they may require (an) intervention to break," said lead researcher Philip Jean-Richard Dit Bressel, a behavioural neuroscientist and experimental psychologist at The University of New South Wales. Researchers said self-sabotaging choices do not arise out of a lack of motivation or capacity — rather from a subtle, yet persistent failure to connect their actions with consequences. The team observed three distinct behaviours among Australian participants whose choices in an online game resulted in either a reward or punishment — 'Sensitives', 'Unawares' and 'Compulsives'. The 'Sensitives' were those who worked out which choices led to unfavourable outcomes and adapted their behaviour. The 'Unawares' were those who did not work out, yet were able to modify their strategies once their errors were brought to their attention. The third group — 'Compulsives' — "persisted in harmful decisions despite both punishment and informational intervention", the authors explained in the study. "We basically told them, 'this action leads to that negative consequence, and this other one is safe'. Most people who had been making poor choices changed their behaviour immediately. But some didn't," said Jean-Richard Dit Bressel. Playing the online game required the participants to click on either of two planets — one would lead to a spaceship that delivered points (reward), while the other to a spaceship that stole from the points accrued thus far (punishment). After a few rounds of trial and error, the researchers found that the sensitive participants were able to work out which planet led to punishment, but the 'Unawares' and 'Compulsives' failed to make the connection and therefore, were "punished intermittently". In another group of participants — a more diverse, international pool of 267 people from 24 different countries with different backgrounds and a wider age range — the researchers found similar results. Further, when this diverse group played the same game six months later, most were seen to display the same behaviours. "That was one of the more striking findings. It suggests these aren't just random mistakes or bad days. They're stable traits — almost like personality types. This is not to say they're fixed, just that they may require intervention to break," Jean-Richard Dit Bressel said. The patterns seen in the study — "where people ignore both experience and information" — are similar to those noted in gambling and other compulsive behaviours, the lead researcher said. The team also said the research has important implications for public health messaging, as campaigns largely rely on providing information — about smoking, drinking, diet, or financial risks — assuming that people will act on it. "We've shown that standard information campaigns work for most people — but not for everyone. For compulsive individuals, we may need a different kind of intervention," Jean-Richard Dit Bressel 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

23 July,2025 03:19 PM IST | Mumbai | PTI
Ozzy Osbourne (Pic/AFP)

What is Parkinson’s disease, the condition Ozzy Osbourne was suffering from?

English singer-songwriter Ozzy Osbourne, widely regarded as the godfather of heavy metal, passed away on Tuesday, July 22, at the age of 76. In a statement, his family said, “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love.” While the cause of death has not been disclosed, the frontman of the pioneering heavy metal band ‘Black Sabbath’ had been battling health issues in recent years. In 2020, the musician had revealed that he was suffering from Parkinson’s disease. What is Parkinson’s disease? Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement and balance, but can also lead to pain, disturbed sleep, mental health challenges, and other health complications. The condition may result in disability and a need for constant care, significantly reducing quality of life. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the prevalence of Parkinson’s disease has doubled over the past 25 years. Global estimates from 2019 showed that more than 8.5 million people were affected by the condition. Signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease The condition includes both motor and non-motor symptoms, which can progressively worsen over time. Motor symptoms, as listed WHO, include slow movement, tremors, rigidity or stiffness, involuntary movements, imbalance, and difficulty walking. Non-motor symptoms include cognitive decline, mental health disorders, dementia, sleep problems, pain, and sensory disturbances. Risk factors of Parkinson’s disease The likelihood of developing Parkinson’s disease increases with age. It typically affects older adults, with the average age of onset being around 60, although it can also occur in younger individuals. WHO also notes that men are more commonly affected by the condition than women. Though the exact cause remains unknown, genetic factors play a key role in many cases. Individuals with a family history of the disease are at a higher risk of developing it. Management and treatment There is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease. However, symptoms can be managed through medication, surgery, and rehabilitation therapies such as physiotherapy, according to WHO. 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

23 July,2025 02:49 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Image for representational purposes only (Photo Courtesy: Pixabay)

Beetroot juice may help lower blood pressure in elderly: Study

Older adults with high blood pressure may benefit from drinking beetroot juice, claimed a study on Wednesday. The blood pressure-lowering effect of nitrate-rich beetroot juice in older individuals may be attributed to specific changes in their oral microbiome, according to a study led by researchers at the University of Exeter in the UK. Nitrate is crucial to the body and is consumed as a natural part of a vegetable-rich diet. In the study, when the older adults drank a concentrated beetroot juice ‘shot’ twice a day for two weeks, their blood pressure decreased. However, the effect was not observed in the younger group, as revealed by the findings published in the journal Free Radical Biology and Medicine. “This study shows that nitrate-rich foods alter the oral microbiome in a way that could result in less inflammation, as well as a lowering of blood pressure in older people. This paves the way for larger studies to explore the influence of lifestyle factors and biological sex in how people respond to dietary nitrate supplementation,” said Professor Andy Jones, of the University of Exeter. The study recruited 39 adults aged under 30 and 36 adults in their 60s and 70s who spent two weeks taking regular doses of nitrate-rich beetroot juice and two weeks on a placebo version of the juice with nitrate stripped out. The older age group experienced a notable decrease in the potentially harmful mouth bacteria Prevotella after drinking the nitrate-rich juice, and an increase in the growth of bacteria known to benefit health, such as Neisseria. The team said that an imbalance between beneficial and harmful oral bacteria can decrease the conversion of nitrate (abundant in vegetable-rich diets) to nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is crucial to the healthy functioning of the blood vessels, and therefore the regulation of blood pressure, the researchers explained. "The good news is that if you don’t like beetroot, there are many nitrate-rich alternatives like spinach, rocket, fennel, celery, and kale,” added Professor Anni Vanhatalo, from the varsity. 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

23 July,2025 11:45 AM IST | Mumbai | IANS
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