Ancient Egyptians attempted to operate on excessive tissue growth or learn more about cancerous disorders after a patient's death, revealed a study on two 4,000-year-old skulls. Known to be the place of one of the early civilisations, ancient Egyptians have been known to identify, describe and treat diseases and traumatic injuries, build prostheses, and put in dental fillings. To understand their further prowess, an international team of researchers studied two human skulls -- male and female and each thousands of years old. The cut marks on the skulls revealed the extent of traumatological and oncological treatments practised by the ancient Egyptians, they said in the paper published in the journal Frontiers in Medicine. Edgard Camaros, a paleopathologist at the University of Santiago de Compostela in Spain called the discovery "unique and extraordinary" evidence of how ancient Egyptian medicine would have tried to deal with or explore cancer more than 4,000 years ago. The two skulls -- Skull and Mandible 236, dating from between 2687 and 2345 BCE, belonged to a male individual aged 30 to 35, while Skull E270, dating from between 663 and 343 BCE, belonged to a female individual who was older than 50 years. Microscopic observation of skull 236 showed a big-sized lesion consistent with excessive tissue destruction, known as neoplasm. Further, there were also 30 or so small and round metastasised lesions scattered across the skull, with cut marks probably made by a sharp object such as a metal instrument. "When we first observed the cut marks under the microscope, we could not believe what was in front of us," said Tatiana Tondini, a researcher at the University of Tubingen in Germany. Analysis of Skull E270 also showed a big lesion consistent with a cancerous tumour that led to bone destruction, and two lesions from traumatic injuries that received treatment. "This may indicate that although today's lifestyle and cancer-causing substances in the environment increase cancer risk, it was also a common pathology in the past," the team said. Also Read: Chennai docs perform world's first keyhole surgery for brain tumour via eyebrow
29 May,2024 10:49 AM IST | Mumbai | IANS
Summer's warmth and sunshine can bring a natural radiance to our skin, but for those with sensitive skin, it can also bring challenges. Allergies may flare, the sun's rays feel stronger, and even familiar products might cause irritation. But fear not! Consultant dermatologist, and author of Good Skin Bad Skin, Dr Ishmeet Kaur shares a comprehensive guide to shield you against summer skincare woes. Read on to equip yourself with the knowledge to identify your unique triggers, navigate the world of summer-friendly products, and establish a routine that keeps your skin healthy and vibrant all season long. By the end, you'll be basking in the summer sun with confidence, knowing your skin is happy and protected. Understanding heat rashes Heat rashes, also known as prickly heat or miliaria, occur when sweat ducts become blocked, trapping sweat beneath the skin. This blockage can lead to irritation, inflammation, and the development of small, itchy bumps or blisters. PreventionStay cool: Avoid prolonged exposure to hot and humid environments, especially during peak hours of the day.Dress appropriately: Opt for loose, breathable clothing made from natural fibres like cotton to allow air circulation and minimise sweating.Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help regulate body temperature and promote sweating. Treatment Cool compresses: Apply a cool, damp cloth to the affected area to soothe irritation and reduce inflammation. Calamine lotion: This over-the-counter remedy can help alleviate itching and discomfort associated with heat rashes. Avoid further irritation: Refrain from scratching or rubbing the affected area, as this can exacerbate symptoms and increase the risk of infection. Consult a dermatologist: If symptoms persist or worsen despite self-care measures, seek medical attention for further evaluation and treatment options. Protecting against sunburn Sunburn occurs when the skin is overexposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, leading to redness, pain, and sometimes blistering. Prolonged or repeated sun exposure can also increase the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. Prevention Use sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all exposed skin, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Seek shade: Limit time spent in direct sunlight, especially during peak hours of UV radiation between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Wear protective clothing: Cover up with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, pants, hats, and sunglasses to shield skin from the sun's harmful rays. Be mindful of reflective surfaces: Water, sand, and snow can intensify UV exposure, so take extra precautions when near these surfaces. Treatment Cool baths or showers: Gently cleanse the affected area with cool water to soothe inflammation and provide relief. Moisturise: Apply aloe vera gel or a soothing moisturiser to hydrate the skin and promote healing. Avoid further sun exposure: Protect sunburned skin from additional UV exposure until it has fully healed to prevent further damage. Consult a dermatologist: If symptoms persist or worsen despite self-care measures, seek medical attention for further evaluation and treatment options. Managing sun allergies Some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to sunlight, known as photosensitivity or sun allergy. Symptoms can range from mild redness and itching to more severe blistering and hives. Prevention Identify triggers: Keep track of activities, medications, or skincare products that may exacerbate sun allergy symptoms and avoid them when possible. Use sun-protective clothing: Wear tightly woven fabrics or clothing specifically designed to block UV rays for added protection. Consider sunscreens with physical blockers: Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide a physical barrier against UV radiation and may be better tolerated by those with sun allergies. Treatment Oral antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamine medications can help alleviate itching and reduce allergic reactions caused by sun exposure. Topical corticosteroids: For more severe symptoms, your dermatologist may prescribe corticosteroid creams or ointments to reduce inflammation and discomfort. Consult a dermatologist: If symptoms persist or worsen despite self-care measures, seek medical attention for further evaluation and treatment options. By understanding the causes and symptoms of heat rashes, sunburns and sun allergies, as well as implementing preventive measures and appropriate treatment strategies, you can enjoy the summer sun safely and minimize the risk of skin-related discomfort and complications. Remember to listen to your body, stay hydrated, and prioritise sun protection to keep your skin healthy and happy all season long. Summer Skin SOS: Understanding seasonal allergies and skin reactions Summer's sunshine can be a double-edged sword for sensitive skin. While it beckons with warmth and a natural glow, it can also trigger a cascade of allergies and reactions. Navigating seasonal allergies and potential skin reactions during the summer months requires a proactive approach to skincare. By identifying your triggers, establishing a tailored skincare routine, choosing suitable products, and implementing preventive measures, you can effectively manage allergies and maintain healthy, radiant skin throughout the summer. What are seasonal allergies? Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, occur when the immune system overreacts to allergens such as pollen, mould spores, pet dander, and dust mites. When these allergens come into contact with the skin or are inhaled, they can trigger a range of symptoms, including itching, redness, inflammation, sneezing, congestion, and watery eyes. Additionally, exposure to environmental factors like sunlight, heat, humidity, and pool chemicals during the summer months can exacerbate skin sensitivities and lead to various skin reactions such as dryness, irritation, sunburn and contact dermatitis. Know what triggers you The first step in managing seasonal allergies and skin reactions is to identify the specific triggers that affect your skin. Keep a journal to track your symptoms and potential triggers, including exposure to pollen, certain skincare products, pool chemicals and environmental factors like heat and humidity. Common triggers for skin reactions during the summer include: Pollen: Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds can aggravate allergies and cause skin irritation, especially when it comes into contact with the skin or is inhaled. Pool chemicals: Chlorine and other chemicals used to disinfect swimming pools can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, itchiness, and irritation. Sun exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can damage the skin, leading to sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Heat and humidity: High temperatures and humidity levels can exacerbate existing skin conditions such as eczema and rosacea, leading to flare-ups and discomfort. Skincare products: Certain skincare products containing fragrances, preservatives, and harsh chemicals can irritate the skin, especially when used in conjunction with sun exposure. Managing seasonal allergies Remember to cleanse gently, apply sunscreen diligently, moisturise regularly, and avoid harsh ingredients that can exacerbate allergies and irritate the skin. Incorporate antioxidant-rich serums, soothing treatments, and hydrating masks into your skincare routine to protect your skin from environmental damage and maintain its natural balance. By following these tips and adopting a holistic approach to skincare, you can enjoy a comfortable and symptom-free summer season while keeping your skin looking and feeling its best. If you have persistent skin concerns or severe allergic reactions, consult a dermatologist for personalised advice and treatment options. Identify your triggers Understanding what triggers your seasonal allergies is essential for effective management. Keep track of your symptoms and note any patterns or specific environments that seem to exacerbate your allergies. Limit exposure to allergens Once you've identified your triggers, take steps to limit your exposure to them. This may include staying indoors during peak pollen times, keeping windows closed, and using air conditioning with a clean filter to reduce indoor allergens. Use allergy medications Over-the-counter antihistamines can help alleviate symptoms such as itching. However, it's essential to consult with a dermatologist before starting any new medication. Practice good hygiene Showering and changing clothes after spending time outdoors can help remove pollen from your skin and hair, reducing the risk of allergic reactions. Additionally, don’t forget to take shower after swimming to remove the chlorinated water. Coping with skin reactions In addition to seasonal allergies, the summer months can also bring about skin reactions due to exposure to various irritants and allergens. Common triggers include: - Chlorinated pool water - Sunscreen - Insect bites - Heat and humidity Preventing skin reactions To prevent skin reactions during the summer months, consider the following tips: - Choose hypoallergenic sunscreen and skincare products to minimise the risk of irritation. - Wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves and hats, to shield your skin from the sun and insect bites. - Apply insect repellent to prevent bug bites, which can cause itching and irritation. - Rinse off with fresh water after swimming in chlorinated pools to remove chemicals from your skin. - Moisturise regularly to keep your skin hydrated and prevent dryness and itching. Treating skin reactions If you experience a skin reaction during the summer months, there are several steps you can take to alleviate discomfort: - Apply a cool compress to soothe irritated skin and reduce inflammation. - Use over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching and redness. - Take an antihistamine to reduce allergic reactions and ease symptoms such as itching and swelling. - Avoid scratching or rubbing the affected area, as this can worsen irritation and lead to infection. - Consult a dermatologist if symptoms persist, or are not managed with above-mentioned tips.
28 May,2024 05:46 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalChronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) -- a rare, yet treatable type of blood cancer -- is significantly rising among young adults, aged 30 to 40 years, in India, warned doctors on Tuesday. CML affects the bone marrow and is characterised by the uncontrolled growth of white blood cells (WBC), specifically granulocytes, in the bone marrow. Globally, CML affects a significant number of people, with estimates ranging between 1.2 to 1.5 million individuals. Despite its prevalence, CML remains relatively rare compared to other forms of leukaemia, comprising nearly 15 per cent of all leukaemia cases. A recent study published in the journal Lancet showed that the condition is found in much younger persons, with the majority of patients being diagnosed between the age of 30 to 40 years, in India. In comparison, the average age of diagnosis in Western countries is 64 years. "In my practice, I see about 5-10 new patients being diagnosed with CML every month, with an additional 10-15 patients coming in for follow-up," K.S. Nataraj, Senior Haematologist and Haemato-Oncologist, HCG Comprehensive Cancer Care Hospital, Bengaluru, told IANS. "This high number is largely because more people are nowadays diagnosed on time, as they regularly go for general check-ups and doctors advise testing, for example, when suspiciously high WBC counts are detected," he added. CML is largely curable if diagnosed and treated in the early stages. The common symptoms of CML include night sweats, weight loss, fever, bone pain, and an enlarged spleen. "CML is indeed a treatable form of blood cancer. However, achieving treatment success requires a delicate balance. Consistent medication intake and regular checkups are important in this journey. With vigilant monitoring and personalised treatment strategies CML can be managed," Tulika Seth, Professor Haematology, AIIMS, New Delhi, told IANS. "Living with CML is a journey that comes with unique challenges at each stage. Prioritising frequent monitoring, compliance with treatment aiming for optimal treatment goals, and embracing advancements in therapy is key," she added. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
28 May,2024 04:26 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSWipro announced a partnership with the Centre for Brain Research (CBR) at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru to develop a personal care engine to reduce and manage the risk of cardiovascular disease by utilising AI, the company informed the exchange in its filing. The company announcing the partnership on Tuesday informed that the collaboration will develop new technologies for the prevention and management of long-term health disorders and provide precision support for these diseases. The company highlighted that the personal care engine will focus on reducing and managing the risk of cardiovascular disease and correlated neurodegenerative disorders, by using AI to personalise its interaction with users, optimising for their long-term health and well-being. Wipro will test the engine through a digital app-based trial in collaboration with CBR at IISc. The company says that this partnership will focus on harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and big data analytics to develop these technologies. "We are delighted to be partnering with the CBR and IISc on this journey. Our personal care engine enables wide-ranging applications and benefits for health management. It has the potential to mitigate lifestyle-related conditions and even enhance cognitive and psychosocial functioning" said Subha Tatavarti, Chief Technology Officer, Wipro Limited. Wipro highlighted that its research & development (R&D) team, part of Lab45, will design and develop a personal care engine - an AI that will take into account an individual's health history, desired health state, and other behavioural responses - to promote healthy aging, positive lifestyle changes, and psycho-social wellbeing to meaningfully improve an individual's health over time. "Our collaboration with CBR will pioneer solutions at the intersection of computing and cognitive sciences, bringing scalable personalized care support for some of the most chronic health challenges globally. Cardiovascular conditions are a particular focus for us, because of their strong association with long-term cognitive issues and the potential for broad health and wellbeing benefits at lower costs," said Dr. Ajay Chander, Head of Research and Development, Wipro Limited. This trial will generate valuable evidence regarding the engine's effectiveness for contexts that are deeply relevant for long-term health outcomes. Wipro's technological expertise, combined with CBR's leading brain science research, will unlock new possibilities for patient care and cognitive and overall health. "Working with Wipro allows us to amplify our scientific expertise through large-scale digital applications. This partnership will accelerate the path from research to real-world solutions in cognitive and overall health," said Professor K.V.S. Hari, Director, Centre for Brain Research. The collaboration in R&D capability of both institutions will develop systems that deliver better health outcomes at the population scale. Also Read: India urgently needs stem cell donors to fight blood disorders, say experts
28 May,2024 12:33 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSUsing statin therapy as the first line of treatment for cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention was found effective in preventing heart disease risk and all-cause mortality, even in adults aged 85 years and older, according to a study on Tuesday. Statins are known to lower cholesterol levels in the blood, thereby decreasing the risk of CVDs. Previously, the consensus on using statins for primary prevention of heart disease in adults aged 75 years or older has been little because of a lack of proper representation of the population in randomised controlled trials, said researchers from the University of Hong Kong. The study, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, included adult patients over 60 without preexisting diagnosed CVDs. The average follow-up was 5.3 years. Of the 42,680 adults aged 75 to 84 years, 9,676 developed CVDs. Among the 5,390 adults aged 85 years or older, 1,600 developed CVD. The results showed that in all age groups, initiating statin therapy was associated with a lower incidence of CVD and all-cause mortality, said the researchers. This was seen “even among the older population aged 85 years or older," they added. The new study showed that statin use did not increase the risk for adverse events such as myopathies and liver dysfunction. The researchers also acknowledged limitations like unmeasured confounders, such as lifestyle factors like diet and physical activity. Also Read: As many as 1.9 million people dying every year from heart disease due to outdoor air pollution: World Heart Federation 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
28 May,2024 12:18 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSIn a significant medical feat, doctors here said on Monday of a simultaneous triple surgery on a 44-year-old man for heart disease, gallstones, and colon cancer -- all in 7 hours. The patient Kopparam, who had been living with diabetes and heart disease for the last three years, underwent three simultaneous complex procedures -- Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG), gallbladder stone removal, and colon cancer surgery in one session under general anaesthesia. He was brought to Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road, with persistent abdominal pain. An ultrasound examination revealed the presence of gallstones. Subsequent tests showed cancerous growth in the colon, which posed a significant challenge in Kopparam's treatment plan, particularly due to his pre-existing heart condition, which was being managed with blood thinners. Performing the CABG first was crucial to ensure the patient's heart was stable before proceeding with the colon cancer surgery, the doctors said. If the cardiac surgery had been done first, there would have been a three-month wait for the colon cancer surgery, but the delay wasn't an option because of the progressive growth in the tumour. The doctors used a specialised surgical technique known as OPCAB (Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass) with four grafts (blood vessels that are transplanted into a patient's body to repair or replace damaged ones) to perform the heart surgery. "This method, unlike traditional approaches, eliminates the need for a heart-lung machine. We carefully monitored the heart and gave medications to keep the blood pressure and sugar levels normal during the surgery," said Vivek Jawali, Chairman of Cardiac Sciences at Fortis. "We took four blood vessels from the patient's body to create new pathways around the blocked arteries in the heart. This helped improve blood flow to the heart muscle," he added. The whole surgery took about 260 minutes (a little over four hours), and the patient was stable, the doctor said. The team also deployed a laparoscopic extended right hemicolectomy to remove a portion of the colon affected by cancer, along with a laparoscopic cholecystectomy for the removal of gallbladder stones. "This intricate procedure demanded precise coordination, and it minimised surgical risks and facilitated a smoother and faster recovery for the patient," Ganesh Shenoy, Director -- GI, Minimal Access and Bariatric Surgery at Fortis, added. The patient was discharged from the hospital 15 days after the surgery and has since resumed his normal daily activities without any complications, the doctors 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.
27 May,2024 06:42 PM IST | Bengaluru | IANSIndia is urgently in need of stem cell donors to fight blood cancer that kills over 70,000 lives every year, said experts on Monday ahead of World Blood Cancer Day. World Blood Cancer Day is observed every year on May 28 to raise awareness about deadly cancer and other blood disorders, such as thalassemia and aplastic anaemia, which affect more than a lakh people in the country, Although conventional methods like chemotherapy and radiation therapy are available, a blood stem cell transplant is the only hope for survival for many blood cancer patients. The health experts noted that every 5 minutes, someone in India gets diagnosed with blood cancer. Yet, the country faces a severe shortage of blood stem cell donors. "Besides being the thalassemia capital of the world, India also has a high prevalence of blood cancers. Stem cell transplants are often the only curative option for these conditions, but finding a compatible stem cell match is difficult, especially in a country as genetically diverse as India," Dr Rahul Bhargava, Principal Director & Chief BMT, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, told IANS. "In India, someone is diagnosed with blood cancer or a severe blood disorder every five minutes. Despite the global registry having over 41 million donors, India has only about 0.6 million registered. Thousands of patients are in dire need of matching stem cell donors to undergo life-saving transplants. We need to expand our donor database significantly to provide these patients with a fighting chance," added Patrick Paul, CEO of DKMS BMST Foundation India -- a non-profit. The experts also lamented the lack of awareness and misconceptions about the process of stem cell donation that leads to hesitancy to register as a donor. "Increased awareness and participation in donor registries are crucial to meeting this life-saving need. In simple terms, stem cell therapy uses stem cells to repair damaged tissues or organs or even to replace them entirely. It is used to treat some types of blood cancers, such as leukaemia and lymphoma," Dr Rahul said. The experts stated that matching for stem cell transplants is based on Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) characteristics, not just blood type. To become a potential stem cell donor, the criteria is to be a healthy adult aged between 18 and 55. 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.
27 May,2024 06:01 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSMenopause is a condition experienced by women from the age 40 to 55 where their menstrual cycles stop for at least 12 months. In certain cases, if a menstrual cycle stops before the age of 45 then it can be classified as premature menopause. Almost 5 to 10 per cent of women in the world are prone to experience premature menopause. This can be caused due to various reasons such as genetics, certain lifestyle factors, and especially due to the correlation between cigarette smoking. According to the studies, women who smoke cigarettes are at higher risk of developing premature menopause than others and the lifespan of these women decreases over time with premature menopause. Dr Kiran Coelho, head of the obstetric and gynaecologist department, Lilavati Hospital shares key insights. Besides estrogen deficiency can cause long-term effects such as osteoporosis (thinning of the bones), chances of developing cardiovascular diseases like stroke and heart attack, experiencing stubborn joint pain, and risk of getting affected with cognitive disorders like dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease increases with premature menopause. The fertility rate decreases tremendously in women with premature menopause making it essential to plan pregnancy to avoid any further complications. In case of low fertility, it gets difficult to conceive. Which leaves no option other than choosing assisted reproductive technology like IVF and IUI. The symptoms experienced during menopause: Low estrogen formation in the ovariesHot flashesIrritationSudden weight gain mostly around the abdominal areaThinning of the hair and hair lossThe skin becomes sensitive and dryConstant mood swingsVaginal dryness which can discomfort and itchingBreast tenderness Sweating excessively during the nightIrregular periodsThe fertility rate decreases even before the preterm menopause. How does cigarette smoking cause premature menopause? It is crucial to understand that the toxins released during smoking are toxic and can be adversely harmful to the ovaries. These toxins eventually decrease the number of eggs available and interfere with the hormones that help regulate the reproductive system. As a result, women who smoke often experience menopause earlier than those who do not. The risk of developing premature menopause increases depending on certain factors like how early a woman starts smoking, how many cigarettes she smokes per day, and for how long she has been smoking. The more and longer a woman chooses to smoke, the higher the risk. However, the good news is if the woman quits smoking early, she can reduce and even reverse the harmful effects on ovaries, which results in experiencing menopause at a typical age like 45 rather than prematurely. Disclaimer: This information does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified specialist or your physician for personalised guidance.
27 May,2024 04:07 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAn international team of scientists from Finland, Canada, the US and New Zealand has discovered a specific brain network hub that plays a key role in stuttering, an advance that can lead to new treatment options. The research, published in the Brain journal, examines two different types of stuttering -- developmental and acquired. While both types are traditionally known to be separate, the study showed that besides "similarities at the behavioural level, there are also similarities at the neural level". "Stuttering affects approximately 1 per cent of adults and can result in significant communication problems and social anxiety, yet the cause of stuttering is still unknown," said lead author Catherine Theys, Associate Professor at the University of Canterbury, New Zealand. The professor said that while stuttering is a developmental disorder, it can also be caused by focal brain damage after a stroke or other neurological conditions. For the study, the team used two datasets and lesion network mapping to test whether lesions causing acquired stuttering map to a common brain network. They also used a third dataset to test whether this lesion-based network was relevant to developmental stuttering. Analysing each dataset, the team located a common stuttering network -- a specific part of the left putamen, which is responsible for lip and face movements and timing and sequencing of speech. They also identified two additional areas of interest for speech imaging and stuttering research -- the claustrum and amygdalostriatal transition area. "These are tiny areas of the brain - only a few mm wide - which is why they may typically not have been identified in previous studies. This shows a plausible network for stuttering," they said, adding that the findings have relevance for treatment. Also Read: 'Invisible disabilities remain overlooked in the domain of public policy,’ shares Autism activist Mugdha Kalra 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
27 May,2024 02:25 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSUrinary stones are small, hard deposits of mineral and acid salts that tend to form when urine gets concentrated. Staying hydrated by drinking enough water is key to prevent the condition. "Urinary stone problems are likely to increase in summer. This problem occurs when the amount of water in the body decreases due to heat. Every day, 2-3 patients come for treatment with complaints of abdominal pain," Dr Pawan Rahangdale, Urologist, Apollo Spectra Pune, told IANS. "One should drink water at regular intervals during hot weather, and urine colour should be like clear water. Yellow urine indicates dehydration," the doctor added. The doctor advised that fluid losses due to constant sweating must be compensated by adequate hydration, or else the kidney will make concentrated urine, and there will be formation of stones. ALSO READ: Mid-day explains: DINK lifestyle: Experts dissect the health, emotional and socio-economic impact of a childless marriage "If left untreated, then people with urinary stones can encounter renal infection or kidney damage," he said. According to doctors, severe pain in the back or abdomen, nausea, and blood in the urine, urgency of passing urine are some of the common symptoms that people encounter due to urinary stones. Dr Ravinder Hodarkar, Urologist at Zynova Shalby Hospital, told IANS that the stone may increase up to a few centimetres in size. "Some stones dissolve on their own without any treatment, while the bigger ones may require surgical procedure. Summer is synonymous with urinary stones," he added.ALSO READ: Mumbai heat: TV actors and expert share tips to keep home interiors cool naturally in summer The experts recommended following a diet low in oxalate-rich foods such as spinach, sweet potatoes, beet, and almonds to reduce the chances of stone formation, as well as lifestyle modifications. 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.
27 May,2024 02:07 PM IST | Pune | IANSThe impact of air pollution on heart disease will lead to millions of preventable deaths every year unless governments introduce legislation to tackle the issue, a new global report warns. Research by the World Heart Federation shows that the number of deaths from cardiovascular conditions caused by air pollution has been on the rise over the past decade and is set to increase further. A wide range of health problems, including obesity and diabetes, are being exacerbated by the global policy failure to meet air pollution targets, it says, describing it as “the greatest single environmental health risk”. The study found that air quality levels have barely improved despite a range of measures recommended by the WHO and other agencies, leading to as many as 1.9 million dying every year from heart disease and just under a million from strokes due to outdoor air pollution alone. Air pollution comes from many sources, including transport, industry and wildfires, but the report also details how indoor air pollution poses a serious health risk. Launched at this year’s World Heart Summit, the report reveals the extent of the health crisis caused by outdoor and indoor pollution: 1. The number of deaths from heart disease attributable to air pollution has increased in some regions by as much as 27 per cent over the past decade. 2. Air pollution is nearly ten times the recommended level in countries in Southeast Asia and the Eastern Mediterranean. 3. There are health inequalities between different countries from air pollution in terms of the level of exposure and effect. 4. Tiny invisible particles in air pollution are affecting heart rhythm, blood clotting, the build-up of plaques in arteries, and blood pressure, as well as adversely affecting respiratory diseases and other conditions across the body. 5. Energy efficiency measures in modern homes as part of net-zero can make buildings more air-tight and could increase the build-up of air pollutants in homes, schools, and workplaces. Data from the report shows that more than half of the nearly 7 million deaths due to air pollution are from cardiovascular conditions (CVDs), a number that’s been on the rise over the past decade. Experts say the number is likely to be significantly higher as this data is from only a single air pollutant and considers only heart disease and stroke, where as many other cardiovascular diseases are known to be worsened by air pollution. Already, cardiovascular disease is the world’s top killer, claiming more than 20 million lives each year. The Western Pacific region saw the highest number of deaths from heart disease and stroke due to outdoor air pollution with nearly 1 million deaths in 2019, and the Southeast Asian Region was a close second, with 762,000 deaths. In the Western Pacific region, 45 per cent of the countries have experienced rising air pollution and suffer the highest mortality from stroke and heart disease induced or exacerbated by it. In Southeast Asia, Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean, air pollution concentrations are nearly ten times higher than recommended. Countries facing the some of greatest challenges with air pollution include those in the Eastern Mediterranean, with Kuwait, Egypt, and Afghanistan having the highest levels of PM2.5 (fine particulate matter in the air). In Africa, the highest levels of PM2.5 were in Nigeria, Niger, and Cameroon. The report 'Clearing the Air to Address Pollution’s Cardiovascular Health Crisis' shows the sources of pollution and their effects on the heart and circulation. Beyond the smoke and smog that we can see, tiny invisible particles can get deep into the lungs, heart, and other organs. Even short-term exposure to air pollution can have many effects throughout the cardiovascular system, and long-term exposure worsens chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, respiratory disease and diabetes. Adverse effects are even seen on mental health, dementia and in pregnancy. “Air pollution is ubiquitous, sparing no one. Both outdoor and indoor pollution are driving deaths from cardiovascular disease which still claims the most lives every year. The impacts of air pollution from several sources add up, often widening gaps in healthcare for those also vulnerable to pollution, and worsening outcomes regardless of demographic,” said Dr Mark Miller of the University of Edinburgh, and the WHF’s Chair of the Air Pollution and Climate Change Expert Group. Particles that damage air quality vary in composition and size, with PM2.5 being the air pollutant most closely linked to detrimental health effects. The World Health Organisation recommends countries to not exceed 5 micrograms of PM2.5 per cubic metre – expressed as 5 µg/m³. Most are way beyond that threshold, and only 64 per cent have any form of established legislation that include outdoor air quality standards. While the elderly, children, and those with a lung or heart condition are among those most susceptible to air pollution, short- and long-term exposure affects everyone to varying degrees. Overall, lower-income countries have higher levels of stroke and ischemic heart disease mortality from both outdoor and household air pollution than higher income countries. The report shows links between type of disease risk and particular sources of pollution including all major cardiovascular conditions such as heart disease, heart failure, high blood pressure, stroke and many more. The increasing threat of other pollutants is concerning since global air pollution-related healthcare costs are already projected to surge from USD 21 billion in 2015 to USD 176 billion in 2060, with annual lost working days potentially increasing to 3.7 billion by 2060.ii Emphasising today’s visible impacts of air pollution, the new report urges action and targeted investment by governments, health and environment decision-makers, and urban planners. It highlights some countries’ efforts to reduce or mitigate air pollution with strong potential for yielding health and economic benefits, crucial steps given that the urban population is expected to reach nearly 6 billion in the next two decades. “We must combat air pollution’s stranglehold that is causing so many unnecessary deaths and ill health. We need to accelerate the implementation of air quality guidelines and minimise the use of fossil fuels. Improving transport standards, the provision of clean domestic fuels, smart infrastructure, urban design and agricultural policies can all help air quality. The current air pollution crisis in many parts of the world reflects known pollutants and could worsen with the emergence of others, all of which underscores the importance of preventive action now,” said Dr Miller.
26 May,2024 12:28 PM IST | Geneva | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
