Urgent action is needed to ban flavoured tobacco, nicotine products that are increasingly being disguised as safer alternatives and deliberately targeted at children and adolescents, said the World Health Organization (WHO) on May 30, ahead of World No Tobacco Day. World No Tobacco Day is observed every year on May 31. The theme this year "Bright products. Dark intentions. Unmasking the Appeal" sheds light on the concealed risks of tobacco products that are made to look attractive through enticing flavours, eye-catching packaging, influencer endorsements on social media, and misleading health claims. The WHO called on governments to urgently ban all flavours in tobacco and nicotine products, including cigarettes, pouches, hookahs, and e-cigarettes, to protect youth from addiction and disease. The products also include menthol, bubble gum, and cotton candy which mask the harshness of tobacco and nicotine products turning toxic products into youth-friendly bait. These not only make it harder to quit tobacco but have also been linked to serious lung diseases. “Flavours are fuelling a new wave of addiction, and should be banned. They undermine decades of progress in tobacco control,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO. SEE PHOTOS: Check out mid-day's top 10 lifestyle stories this May Flavoured tobacco is currently banned in over 50 countries, and more than 40 countries have also banned e-cigarette sales. While five nations specifically ban disposables, 7 ban e-cigarette flavours. Yet, flavoured accessories remain largely unregulated. Saima Wazed, regional director for WHO South-East Asia said an estimated 11 million adolescents aged 13-15 years are already addicted to tobacco products in the region -- nearly 30 per cent of the global total in this age group. “We now face aggressive industry marketing of new and emerging nicotine and tobacco products (NENTPs) -- such as electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and flavoured nicotine pouches. These are being disguised as safer alternatives and deliberately targeted at children and adolescents,” Wazed said. Tobacco use remains the single most preventable cause of death worldwide and is a leading risk factor for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory illness. Tobacco use remains the single most preventable cause of death worldwide and is a leading risk factor for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory illness. “Without bold action, the global tobacco epidemic, already killing around 8 million people each year, will continue to be driven by addiction dressed up with appealing flavours,” Ghebreyesus 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.
31 May,2025 11:00 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSEven though smoking's detrimental effects on general health are well known, many of us continue to underestimate how much of an impact it has on our oral health, which is often subtle. Apart from the known risks to your heart and lungs, smoking tobacco can silently and rapidly accelerate a number of crippling dental issues. The repercussions go far beyond appearances, ranging from disfigured teeth and persistent foul breath to severe gum disease, substantial tooth loss, and even increased risks of oral cancer. On World No Tobacco Day, observed on May 31, Dr Shivangi Sharma, consultant- dentistry at Nanavati Max Hospital, Mumbai, and Dr Shobhit Raizada, consultant - maxillofacial prosthodontist and oral implantologist at Manipal Hospital, Goa highlight the frequently overlooked oral health effects of smoking. They also outline the vital precautions you can take to safeguard your smile. The Smoker's Mouth: A breeding ground for problemsSmoking has a profound and often irreversible impact on your oral well-being. Here's how it accelerates and worsens common dental issues: Compromised immune response and impaired healingDr Shobhit explains, "Smoking compromises your body’s immune systems, making it harder to beat off infections, especially in the gums.” He adds that "Nicotine tightens the blood vessels in your mouth, cutting off blood flow to the gums reducing oxygen and necessary nutrients, which will negatively affect the healing process." This reduced ability to heal means that damage to your gums or other soft tissues will repair slowly, if at all, and it significantly lowers the success rates of dental procedures like deep cleanings or gum surgery. Increased risk and severity of gum disease "Smoking plays a major role in causing gum diseases, particularly periodontitis," states Dr Shivangi, continuing, "Periodontitis is a serious infection that damages the gums and can destroy the jawbone. The toxins present in cigarette smoke cause inflammation and swelling of the gums, making them more prone to infection." On the other hand, the Goa-based doctor further highlights the severity, stating, "Smokers are two to seven times more likely than non-smokers to develop gum disease." He also points out a critical danger: "Smoking also cloaks early signs of gum disease like bleeding gums, since it decreases the blood flow. This makes that a lot of smokers overlook the first symptoms and only have themselves treated when the disease is advanced." Increased risk of tooth decay"Tobacco and its constituents modify the composition and function of saliva,” says he says, adding, "It raises acidity, so the saliva becomes less able to neutralise damaging acids and flush the mouth." This more acidic environment, he explains "contributes to carbohydrates feeding harmful bacteria responsible for the growth of plaque and associated increased risk for tooth decay”. Warning signs you might be missingMany early symptoms of smoking-related dental issues are mild and can easily be overlooked or mistaken for temporary problems. Dr Shobhit recommends paying attention to these indicators:1. Chronic bad breath (Halitosis): Be mindful if you sense a persistent, hard-to-mask smell, even after brushing or using mouthwash. Halitosis arises from bacteria build-up enhanced by the dry mouth smokers commonly experience.2. Stained teeth and plaque build-up: Due to the residue from tar, teeth can turn an unhealthy yellow or brown appearance, which also leads to increased plaque accumulation.3. Dry mouth: Smoking decreases saliva flow, leaving you with a dry, uncomfortable mouth, making it more susceptible to bacteria and plaque.4. Loss of soft tissue plumpness: A cigarette smoker may start to observe that their cheeks, lips, and gums begin to look a little thinner.5. Inflamed salivary gland ducts: The ducts in the salivary glands can become irritated from smoking and cause swelling and inflammation that may go unnoticed until serious problems arise. Since many of these symptoms develop slowly and often without pain, they're frequently dismissed until significant damage has occurred. The broader impact: taste, appearance and cancer riskLong-term smoking carries several serious consequences for overall oral health. Sharma lists some of the significant possibilities below:1. Dull sense of taste: The chemicals in tobacco smoke dull taste receptors on the tongue, reducing the ability to taste foods properly. Smokers often find food bland, resulting in increased salt or spice intake, common in Indian diets, which can lead to further dietary imbalances.2. Impact on social interactions and self-esteem: Tooth discolouration and persistent bad breath can significantly impact social interactions and self-esteem.3. Significantly increased risk of oral cancer: Smoking drastically raises the risk of developing oral cancer, a severe and potentially fatal condition. What can you do?In India, where tobacco products like cigarettes, bidis, and chewing tobacco are widely used, understanding these risks is paramount. Many Indian smokers start due to social pressures or stress, common in fast-paced urban lifestyles. However, the financial strain from treating smoking-related oral diseases adds significant socioeconomic burdens to families already facing health disparities. Dr Shobhit recommends three ways for you to mitigate the damage and prioritise your oral health: 1. Quit smoking immediately and completelyThe most important advice any dental professional can give to patients who smoke is clear and firm: Quit smoking immediately and completely. This is the most effective way to protect not just your oral health, but your overall wellbeing. He further advises seeking professional tobacco cessation programs that offer not only behavioural support, but also medication options and personalised tactics to help patients quit — for good. 2. Practice better oral hygieneSmokers frequently report these symptoms [gingival bleeding, tooth stains, persistent bad breath], indicating poorer oral hygiene practices and greater plaque accumulation. Brush your teeth two times a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss once a day, and rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash. 3. Schedule regular dental visitsFrequent check-ups and cleanings allow your dentist to monitor for early signs of damage and intervene before problems escalate. A clear path to a healthier smileThe message is clear: Smoking profoundly damages oral health, leading to severe conditions like gum disease, tooth loss, impaired taste, and oral cancers. Understanding these risks, adopting healthier lifestyle choices, and promoting smoke-free environments can drastically reduce these impacts. Dr Shivangi states, "Public health initiatives aimed at reducing smoking through education, cessation programs, and stricter tobacco control policies can substantially improve oral health outcomes in India.” Encouraging smokers to quit through increased awareness about these specific risks can ultimately enhance their quality of life, reduce healthcare costs, and promote a healthier, more productive society,” she concludes.
31 May,2025 10:24 AM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalSleeping disorders may act as an early indicator of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia (LBD) -- a type of dementia, according to a study. The study focused on patients with Rapid eye movement behaviour disorder -- a sleep disorder where individuals physically act out their dreams during the rapid eye movement (REM) stage of sleep. "Normally, when we're asleep and dreaming, our muscles are paralysed, but around age 50, some people become very agitated during sleep and start punching, kicking and screaming," said Shady Rahayel, a medical professor at Université de Montréal in Canada. Unlike sleepwalking, which occurs during slow-wave sleep, RBD occurs during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, he added, and it affects people of middle age. In the study, published in the journal eBioMedicine, the researchers said that nearly 90 per cent of people with the disorder will go on to develop either Parkinson's disease or LBD. “RBD is an early warning sign that certain mechanisms in the brain are no longer working as they should," said the team. "The people with RBD who come to see us are in good health... but of those who subsequently develop a disease, half will have Parkinson's and the other half LBD." Rahayel explained that with LBD, the second most common form of dementia after Alzheimer's, "patients are no longer able to function in everyday life". In addition to dementia, "they will have Parkinson's-like symptoms, vivid visual hallucinations, fluctuating attention and other symptoms." For the study, the team used data from 1,276 MRI scans of people at risk of, or with, Parkinson's disease or LBD, and also of healthy people. Using machine learning and computational models, the researchers identified two trajectories of brain atrophy progression. LBD seems to be associated with brain atrophy that begins in the cortex and then spreads to the interior of the brain, while in Parkinson's the atrophy progresses from the interior to the exterior of the brain. The team next aims to investigate the factors that lead to this deterioration in the cortex, such as vascular lesions, the effects of drugs, and of lifestyle choices. "Now that we have identified these new progression patterns, our goal is to be able to determine from an MRI whether a person has one of them so that we can provide the best possible care," said Rahayel. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
30 May,2025 10:09 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSAs Mumbai's monsoon season gets underway this May, it will only become more frequent from June for the next three months. While rainfall makes many people happy, there are others who don't like it due to many reasons including the chaos that ensues in travel and daily life. Interestingly, there is more that the change in season does than many may realise. Mumbai doctors say people feel low than usual as they experience monsoon blues, and it only becomes more pronounced for those who already suffer from mental health issues. Dr Santosh Bangar, senior consultant psychiatrist at Gleneagles Hospitals in Parel, explains, "The monsoon season can take a toll on one’s mental well-being. It can trigger loneliness, low energy, and mood swings due to the lack of sunlight and limited outdoor activity. People living away from home may feel increased homesickness and isolation during gloomy weather, even without prior mental health issues, making emotional support important. Hence, people can end up feeling fatigued, may have mood swings, and become frustrated due to harsh weather conditions. Also, the wet weather limits their movement as people stay back at home. So, it is imperative to take care of the mental well-being during the monsoon." With the monsoon underway, mid-day spoke to Dr Bangar and Dr Simran Agrawal, US-based clinical psychologist about how the monsoon season affects mental health. They not only dived into the causes but also the effects, and how it affects people who have pre-existing mental health conditions. How does the monsoon season affect mental health? Apart from those with mental health challenges, do people who live away from home also face it?Agarwal: The lack of sunlight that typically accompanies prolonged periods of rain can lead to mood changes. People may feel more tired, less motivated, and generally low. Some may also experience anxiety or restlessness during persistently gloomy weather, as it can disrupt daily routines and limit outdoor activities. Overcast and dark days can affect sleep patterns by disrupting the body’s circadian rhythm, which relies on natural light cues. For those living away from home, the emotional impact may feel even more pronounced—not just due to the weather itself, but because it is compounded by distance from support systems and loved ones What are monsoon blues, and how can one recognise the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder?Bangar: Though many people enjoy the monsoon, some may find it difficult to navigate through this season. Monsoon blues are feelings of sadness, fatigue, or irritability due to gloomy weather. It may lead to feeling fatigued, loss of interest, oversleeping, or changes in appetite. Hence, these can be the warning signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression associated with seasonal changes, especially during prolonged rainy days or winter months. Agarwal: It is not uncommon for people to experience brief periods of low mood or lethargy during the rainy season—often referred to as "monsoon blues". These symptoms are typically mild, short-lived, and do not significantly impair daily functioning. In contrast, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a clinically recognised form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, often triggered by reduced sunlight. To meet diagnostic criteria, this pattern must repeat consistently for at least two years, with more seasonal than non-seasonal episodes. Symptoms of SAD are more persistent and include low energy, excessive sleep, increased appetite, weight gain, and pronounced carbohydrate cravings. While the season affects one's mood, is it more severe for people who already suffer with mental health issues? Bangar: The gloomy weather during monsoon can give a tough time to people with existing mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The lack of sunlight, disrupted routines and social isolation may impact one’s emotional health, leading to feelings of highs and lows and anxiety. Agarwal: The emotional impact of the monsoon season can be more severe for individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions. Those already managing depression, anxiety, or mood disorders may find that the lack of sunlight, disrupted routines, and limited social engagement during prolonged rainy days can intensify their symptoms. The weather can act as a trigger, making it harder to regulate emotions, stay motivated, or maintain healthy coping strategies. What can people do to keep their mental health in check? Please share tipsBangar: To maintain mental health during the monsoon, stay active indoors, follow a structured routine and get natural light, whenever possible. Eat healthy and balanced meals inclusive of fresh vegetables, whole grains, pulses and lentils, stay connected with loved ones and limit screen time. Practice mindfulness, journaling, or deep breathing exercises. Seek help of a counselor if needed. Having a positive mindset will help one sail through the monsoon. Agarwal: To support mental well-being during the monsoon, maintaining a consistent daily routine can go a long way. Try to get exposure to natural light when possible—sit by a window or take short walks during breaks in the rain. Avoid oversleeping, as it can worsen symptoms and increase lethargy. Even something as simple as starting the day with a set wake-up time, a short stretch, and setting an intention can help anchor the mind. For those feeling persistently low or overwhelmed, reaching out to a mental health professional can offer timely support and help prevent symptoms from worsening. How does one manage anxiety and depression during the monsoon season? Does extended period of rain, flooding or deteriorating situation worsen it?Bangar: To manage anxiety and depression during the monsoon, stay socially connected and engage in mood-boosting activities such as reading, gardening, listening to music, solving puzzles, painting, or learning a new skill. Do self-care, pamper yourself with a massage or a warm bath at home. Remember, rain or flooding can heighten feelings of helplessness, isolation and fear, especially in children, pregnant women and the older population, so seek timely help. Agarwal: An extended period of rain or flooding can heighten symptoms of anxiety or depression, especially when it disrupts daily life or creates a sense of unpredictability. For some, this can trigger a loss of control or safety, intensifying emotional distress. In such moments, grounding exercises—like box breathing (inhaling for 4 counts, holding for 4, exhaling for 4, holding again for 4)—can help regulate the nervous system and reduce anxiety. It’s also helpful to recognise when news consumption crosses into overconsumption. Being mindful of how much you take in—and choosing when and how to engage—can help preserve your emotional bandwidth during times of ongoing uncertainty.
30 May,2025 05:27 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoDepression can significantly raise the risk of dementia both in middle age as well as among those aged 50 and above, according to a study. Dementia affects over 57 million people globally. There is currently no cure, so identifying and treating the factors to reduce the risk, such as depression, is an important public health priority. The findings showed that potential links between depression and dementia are complex and may include chronic inflammation, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation, vascular changes, alterations to neurotrophic factors, and neurotransmitter imbalances. Shared genetic and behavioural-related modifications may also increase the risks. The study, published in the journal eClinicalMedicine, highlights the importance of recognising and treating depression across the life course, not just for mental health, but also as part of a broader strategy to protect brain health. “Public health efforts need to place greater emphasis on preventative brain health, including scaling up access to effective mental health care," said Jacob Brain from the Institute of Mental Health and School of Medicine at the University of Nottingham, UK. Previous studies have shown that people with depression are more likely to develop dementia later in life. Still, there's been a lot of debate about when depression matters most, whether it's depression that starts in midlife -- in the 40s or 50s, or depression that appears later in life -- in the 60s or beyond. This new research brings together all the existing evidence and adds new analysis to examine this timing in more detail. "Our findings raise the possibility that depression late in life may not just be a risk factor, but it could also be an early warning sign of dementia beginning to develop. By clarifying this timing, our work helps guide future research, treatment, and prevention strategies," Brain said. The study, based on a meta-analysis of more than 20 studies involving over 34 lakh participants, specifically focused on the timing of when depression was measured, whether it was measured in midlife or later life, and calculated how much it increased the risk of developing dementia. This essentially helped the researchers to provide a more accurate and up-to-date picture of how depression at different life stages is linked to dementia risk." This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
30 May,2025 12:25 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSOver eight per cent of outbreaks reported under India's infectious disease surveillance system between 2018 and 2023 were zoonotic -- spread from animals to humans, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, according to an analysis. Zoonotic outbreaks consistently peaked during June, July, and August, researchers from the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Epidemiology, Chennai said. Typically, about seven zoonotic outbreaks -- also sometimes called 'spillover events' -- occurred in a month, and such instances significantly increased over the years, specifically, post-pandemic, the study published in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia journal found. The team analysed a total of 6,948 outbreaks reported under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP) to identify trends. Of these, 583 (8.3 per cent) were zoonotic -- Japanese encephalitis was found to account for 29.5 per cent of zoonotic outbreaks, followed by leptospirosis (18.7 per cent) and scrub typhus (13.9 per cent). Region-wise, the northeast part of the country contributed 35.8 per cent of zoonotic disease outbreaks, followed by the southern (31.7 per cent) and western regions (15.4 per cent), the researchers found. They added that late reporting of disease outbreaks has declined over the years -- 52.6 per cent in 2019, 40.9 per cent in 2021, and 5.2 per cent in 2023. Overall, a third of the outbreaks during the study period were reported late, the team said. "Of the 6948 outbreaks reported in IDSP, 583 (8.3 per cent) were zoonotic, with a median of seven monthly zoonotic outbreaks. Outbreaks significantly increased over the years," the authors wrote. The researchers said that while outbreaks of measles, chickenpox, and dengue have been individually analysed, zoonotic events from the national-level infectious disease surveillance system have not been comprehensively examined. A lack of analysis of geographical patterns and documentation of reporting delays hindered evidence-based decision-making and targeted interventions, the team said. "Critical gaps in weekly outbreak reports were identified, particularly the lack of follow-up documentation. To address these gaps, we recommend strengthening disease-specific surveillance systems in hotspot regions," the authors concluded. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
30 May,2025 11:32 AM IST | Mumbai | PTIEven as India is witnessing a surge in Covid-19 cases, the early arrival of rain is also raising the risk of monsoon diseases like seasonal flu (influenza), dengue, malaria and typhoid, among others. Currently, Maharashtra is among the three regions in India reporting the highest number of Covid-19 cases, Delhi and Kerala being the other two. According to the latest data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the state had reported 210 active Covid-19 cases as of May 26. At the same time, with the arrival of the monsoon season, Maharashtra is also witnessing heavy rainfall, which poses a risk of various monsoon illnesses. This comes with the possibility of people getting confused about some symptoms resembling those of Covid-19, especially because this not the first time. The last time Covid-19 took over the world in 2020, there was confusion and this simply serves as a reminder. As cases of the respiratory virus increase, there is a possibility of panic, or lack of people taking it seriously. This reaction can make it difficult for people to differentiate between Covid-19 and seasonal diseases to seek timely medical attention. Dr Sandeep Gore, who is the director of Emergency Medicine at Fortis Hospital in Mulund says, “Some monsoon diseases like dengue, malaria, leptospirosis, seasonal flu (influenza) and chikungunya present symptoms similar to Covid-19. These include fever, body ache, fatigue, headache, cough and sore throat, and gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting/diarrhea.” Covid-19 vs monsoon diseases: What’s the difference? It is important to know the specific symptoms of these diseases to get correct and timely diagnosis and medical attention. Dr Harish Chafle, who is the senior consultant intensivist chest physician, bronchoscopist and sleep disorders specialist at Gleneagles Hospital in Parel, informs, “To tell the difference, one has to watch out for specific signs of diseases. Dengue and malaria often cause high fever with chills and body rashes, typhoid gives stomach pain and slow-rising fever, while Covid-19 may cause loss of smell, cough, and breathing issues. However, a proper test by a medical professional is the best way to confirm the exact illness and avoid confusion.” While not all monsoon diseases can get transmitted from person to person, Covid-19 spreads through respiratory droplets. Hence, one needs to be on the lookout for specific symptoms of the respiratory virus not only to get timely treatment but also prevent further spread of infection. Dr Gore reveals the following ways one can identify Covid-19: Respiratory symptoms: Dry cough, shortness of breath, and loss of smell or taste are hallmark Covid-19 symptoms and are less common in dengue, malaria or chikungunya. Fever pattern: Covid-19 fever may be intermittent and often responds to paracetamol, whereas dengue fever is typically high-grade (104–105 degrees Fahrenheit) and persistent, and malaria fever is cyclical. Gastrointestinal/neurological symptoms: Severe gastrointestinal issues (diarrhea, vomiting) or neurological symptoms (dizziness, seizures) in Covid-19 are less common in monsoon diseases, except typhoid or severe dengue. Steps to take if you observe symptoms Experts recommend seeking medical attention if you observe symptoms of Covid-19 or any other monsoon disease. While it is important to rest well and consume healthy foods and fluids if you experience fever, cough or fatigue, you should also isolate immediately if Covid-19 is suspected, to prevent the spread of infection. Dr Chafle says, “Monitor your health, wear a mask, and seek medical advice without wasting any time. Get tested to know the exact illness so the right treatment can start without delay. Don’t try any home remedies and avoid self-medication.” Beyond the symptoms, taking diagnostic tests are important to identify the illness. Dr Gore shares, “Get tested with RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) or Antigen test, along with CBC (Complete Blood Count), Dengue NS1 (Non-Structural Protein 1), and MP (Malarial Parasite) test as per presenting symptoms.” Age groups and gender at risk Everyone should be careful about these diseases, take precautions and keep an eye on symptoms; however, certain groups can be more at risk. While the elderly (above 65 years), immunocompromised individuals, unvaccinated people and those with comorbidities like diabetes and heart disease should be more careful about Covid-19, people living in areas with heavy rainfall, poor drainage and mosquito infestation are more at risk of contracting monsoon diseases. Additionally, children and pregnant women may be more susceptible to dengue and malaria and individuals with open wounds or exposure to contaminated water may be more at risk of leptospirosis, according to Dr Gore. Precautions Indian health experts and authorities have said that there is no need to worry about Covid-19 since most infections are not severe, however, precaution is highly advised. Similarly, one can protect themselves from a range of monsoon diseases through a few simple prevention measures. Dr Chafle and Dr Gore recommend the following precautions: Against Covid-19 Wear masks in crowded or enclosed spaces. Practice social distancing whenever possible. Avoid being around people who might be sick. Ensure you are up to date on your vaccination/booster doses. Eat a well-balanced diet, follow cough etiquette, and disinfect frequently touched surfaces. Avoid any travel if you are symptomatic. Against monsoon diseases Keep your surroundings clean and dry to stop mosquito breeding. Avoid stagnant water inside and around your home. Use mosquito nets, insect repellents, and wear long or full-sleeved clothes. Drink clean, boiled water and eat freshly cooked food to avoid infections. Avoid street food or uncovered food. Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Kindly consult a qualified medical expert for personalised guidance.
29 May,2025 05:12 PM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainA silent health crisis is brewing within corporate India, with a significant number of employees suffering from chronic illness, poor mental health, and burnout, according to an alarming report on Thursday. The report by Plum, an Indian employee health benefits platform, showed that chronic illness hits working professionals by the age of 40. The report noted that 40 per cent of employees take at least one sick day each month for mental health reasons, and 1 in 5 are considering quitting due to burnout. Alarmingly, the data reveals a consistent pattern across the onset of major health conditions: heart disease (by age 32), cancer (by age 33), diabetes (by age 34), chronic kidney disease (by age 35), cerebrovascular disease such as strokes, ischemia (by age 36) This early onset not only threatens individual well-being but also puts long-term pressure on workforce productivity, healthcare costs, and India’s economic potential. Chronic disease costs companies up to 30 days per employee every year in productivity losses and disengagement. The report urged Indian companies to redefine "value" in employee benefits, prioritising prevention, holistic care, and addressing the unique needs of their workforce. "We need to urge companies to think of healthcare beyond the transactional nature of insurance. True employee well-being lies in providing access to holistic healthcare solutions that encompass mental, physical, and social well-being," said Abhishek Poddar, Co-founder of Plum. "Our report underscores the urgency for a comprehensive approach that empowers employees to take charge of their health journey, including addressing the specific mental health needs of different demographics within the workforce," he added. Despite the growing burden of disease, only 20 per cent of companies offer regular health check-ups, and even when available, just 38 per cent of employees use them, said the report. In addition, mental health issues are escalating quickly: with anxiety being the leading concern. The data also shows a gender divide in access and stigma with men dominating healthcare utilisation (58 per cent) in the 30-49 age group. However, women in the 50-59 age group account for 68 per cent of benefit utilisation. This is due to the typical age for menopause and perimenopause onset, and years of deprioritising their own health due to caregiving roles often lead to late detection and more severe conditions, finally pushing them to seek treatment, according to the report. 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
29 May,2025 02:39 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSInfants under two-years-old, suffering from long Covid are more likely to experience trouble sleeping, fussiness, poor appetite, stuffy nose, and cough, while children aged three to five are more likely to have a dry cough and tiredness, according to a new study in the US. "Children with these symptoms often had worse overall health, lower quality of life, and delays in development," co-first author Tanayott Thaweethai, associate director of biostatistics research and engagement at Massachusetts General Hospital, US, said. Long Covid refers to symptoms that persist well beyond having recovered from an acute COVID-19 infection. The findings, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Pediatrics, are the latest from the US National Institutes of Health's 'RECOVER' initiative, aimed at understanding and preventing long Covid. An earlier analysis by the team in August 2024, found that children aged six to 11 displayed brain- and stomach-related symptoms such as headache, trouble focussing and sleeping, while teenagers experienced a loss of smell and taste, fatigue and physical pain. Notably, teens were found to display long Covid symptoms more similar to adults -- who often report brain fog and fatigue -- than to children. This study is "important because it shows that long COVID symptoms in young children are different from those in older children and adults," Thaweethai said. "Infants (or) toddlers (0-2 years) with infection history were more likely to experience trouble sleeping, fussiness, poor appetite, stuffy nose, and cough, and preschool-aged children (3-5 years) were more likely to experience dry cough and daytime tiredness (or) sleepiness or low energy," the authors wrote. The researchers examined 472 infants and 539 preschoolers, of which 278 infants and 399 pre-schoolers had previously suffered from COVID-19. The participants were enrolled between March 2022 and July 2024. Among those with a history of infection, 40 infants (14 per cent) and 61 pre-school children (15 per cent) were identified as having long Covid. Symptoms lasting at least 90 days after COVID infection for both age groups were analysed -- 41 symptoms in the infant group and 75 in preschoolers. Parts of India, including Delhi-NCR, West Bengal and Karnataka, are seeing an uptick in COVID-19 cases, which have been attributed to Omicron sub-variants. Severity of infections as of now is generally mild and there is no cause for worry, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) had said on May 26. 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
29 May,2025 10:48 AM IST | Mumbai | PTIProviding hearing aids to older adults, along with counselling their families, were found to reduce falls by nearly 30 per cent over a three-year period, according to a study published in The Lancet Public Health journal. Falls -- a leading cause of injury and major health concern among the elderlies -- have been linked with hearing loss, among other factors, including a decline in physiological responses, mobility and cognitive skills. Researchers, including those from Edinburgh Napier University, UK, provided hearing aids and counselling to family members of half of 977 adults in the US, aged 70-84, with untreated hearing loss and without substantial cognitive impairment. The other half -- 487 participants -- were the 'control group' and given health education. Results from the 'ACHIEVE' trial revealed that the average number of falls over three years among those receiving hearing interventions -- hearing aids and counselling -- was 1.45, compared to 1.98 in the control group. "The intervention group had a 27 per cent reduction in the mean number of falls over three years compared with the control group," the authors wrote. The team said that evidence from previous studies that examined the link between using hearing aids and falls has been contradictory. The ACHIEVE trial is the "first large-scale" randomised control trial that has explored the potential effect of hearing intervention on falls, the researchers said. Findings from the trial suggest that hearing aids and counselling may reduce falls among older adults with hearing loss, even as further research is required to examine the longer-term effects of hearing intervention on falls. A study, published in 'The Evidence' journal in March 2024, found that prevalence of falls among older adults in India (aged 60 and above) was 11.43 per cent. Data of 28,710 participants from the Longitudinal Aging Study of India (LASI), collected during 2017-2019, was analysed. The study attributed the risk of falling to chronic conditions, such as diseases of bones and joints, and vision problems. Self-reported poor health emerged as a strong predictor for falls, emphasising the interplay of physical health and self-perception in risk of falling, it said. Further, women were found to be at a 31 per cent higher risk of falling, compared to men. 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
29 May,2025 10:34 AM IST | Mumbai | PTIConversations about women's health have come a long way. While they were earlier in hushed whispers, today, discussions about menstruation among other subjects previously considered ‘taboo’ are commonplace due to social media. However, there is still a lot more to know about the health risks periods may pose if proper hygiene practices are not followed. Every year, Menstrual Hygiene Day is observed on May 28 to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining menstrual hygiene and advocating for access to safe period products and sanitation facilities. Besides the social stigma that is still associated with periods in some regions, accompanying physiological effects and other potential health issues related to the process may affect menstruators both physically and mentally. Potential health issues Dr Manjula Anagani, clinical director, HOD – CARE Vatsalya, Women and Child Institute at CARE Hospitals in Hyderabad reminds that menstruation is a natural biological process but it can come with a range of physical and emotional challenges. She explains, “Some common challenges are increased bleeding and painful cramps, which can vary from mild discomfort to pain that interferes with daily activities. Many women also experience bloating, headache, fatigue and mood fluctuations due to hormonal changes,” she shares. While menstruation may be a smooth process for some, it can prove to be difficult for others. Highlighting other health issues, Dr Surabhi Siddhartha, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital in Kharghar, says, “Some may experience heavy bleeding (menorrhagia), irregular periods, or premenstrual syndrome (PMS). In certain cases, conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis can cause severe pain or extended menses. Digestive problems like constipation or diarrhea are commonly seen in menstruating women.” The experts highlight that women need to take utmost care of themselves during menses and follow practices that not only ensure a safe period but also help in easing menstrual discomfort. “Women should know what is normal and when to seek intervention. Menstrual hygiene conversation should take centre stage. Awareness will always lead to healthier choices,” Dr Anagani remarks. Menstrual hygiene tips Apart from being aware of signs and symptoms that may point towards menstruation-related conditions, it is important to follow certain practices to maintain basic menstrual hygiene, that goes much beyond just staying clean. Poor hygiene practices can lead to several issues including, but not limited to, urinary tract infections, rashes and even reproductive tract infections. Dr Siddhartha and Dr Anagani share the following menstrual hygiene tips: 1. Always use clean sanitary products like pads, tampons, or menstrual cups. Change them every 4–6 hours to prevent infections, allergies and rashes. Wash your hands before and after changing pads. 2. Clean your vaginal area daily using water and mild soap. Don’t use harsh soaps or chemical-laden products down there. 3. Wear clean and breathable cotton underwear to reduce moisture build-up. Avoid wearing tight clothes. 4. Dispose of used pads properly by wrapping them in paper and throwing them in a dustbin. Avoid using sanitary products that are bleached or contain harsh plastics. 5. Stay hydrated and eat healthy food consisting of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Avoid eating junk, oily, canned, spicy, and processed foods that can trigger discomfort, bloating, headaches and migraine. 6. It is also important to be well-rested. 7. In order to prevent any irregularities, indulge yourself in any form of exercise like yoga or gym or stretches. 8. Always keep track of your menstrual cycle. Dr Siddhartha highlights, “If you notice any unusual pain, heavy bleeding, or foul smell, consult a doctor immediately." Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Kindly consult a qualified medical expert to get personalised guidance.
28 May,2025 10:56 PM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainADVERTISEMENT
