With stroke cases rising rapidly across India and delays in diagnosis often costing patients their lives or mobility, a Mumbai hospital has taken a unique step to bridge this critical gap. Keeping the importance of the “golden window” of 4.5 hours in mind, the hospital has launched an AI-based Hub-and-Spoke stroke care model, with diagnostic centres acting as spokes and Gleneagles Hospital in Parel functioning as the central hub. This initiative ensures that the moment a suspected stroke is detected on CT or MRI, the hospital’s stroke team is alerted instantly, allowing faster decisions, quicker transport, and timely treatment. AI-enabled stroke response network Under this model, Dr Nitin Dange heads the stroke response team, supported by Dr Shirish Hastak and Dr Pankaj Agarwal, Dr Kushal Bhatia, and Dr Mayur Gharat receives real-time AI notifications on their mobiles the moment a suspected stroke is detected at any connected diagnostic centre. Understanding stroke and the urgency of time A stroke occurs when blood supply to the brain is either blocked (ischemic stroke) or when a blood vessel ruptures, causing bleeding (hemorrhagic stroke). Common causes include high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol, and heart disease. If not treated quickly, a stroke can lead to paralysis, speech loss, permanent disability, or even death. The biggest challenge in stroke care is time. Many patients lose precious hours after diagnosis due to a lack of awareness, delayed referrals, or being taken to centres without advanced stroke facilities. Recognising this gap, the city hospital conceptualised an AI-driven Hub-and-Spoke model to ensure that diagnosis immediately translates into action. Dr Nitin Dange, director - Interventional Neurologist and Neurosurgeon, Gleneagles Hospital Parel says, “Gleneagles Hospital has taken the initiative of launching an AI-based Hub-and-Spoke stroke model to address the growing burden of stroke cases and the delays we commonly see in treatment. For the past six months, we have installed this AI software at selected diagnostic centres offering CT scan and MRI services in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai areas such as Ghatkopar, Mulund, and Panvel (and which other areas). The moment a scan suggests a stroke, the software automatically identifies whether it is a bleeding stroke or a blockage stroke, estimates the time of onset, and sends instant alerts to our stroke team on their mobile phones. This allows us to act immediately. In cases of blockage stroke, if the patient is within the 4.5-hour golden window, we can even start thrombolysis on the way while shifting the patient to our hospital for advanced procedures like mechanical thrombectomy. Till now, we have treated 3-4 patients so far under this model, all have shown good recovery. With more awareness and more diagnostic centres joining this network, many more stroke patients can receive life-saving treatment on time.” “This Hub-and-Spoke model is not just about technology; it is about saving time, brain function, and lives. By connecting diagnostic centres directly with our stroke specialists, we are ensuring that no patient loses crucial minutes due to confusion or delays. Our vision is to expand this network and collaborate with more centres so that early diagnosis leads to immediate treatment. With the rising incidence of stroke, such integrated care models will play a vital role in improving outcomes and creating greater public awareness,” concludes Dr. Bipin Chevale, CEO of the hospital. Strengthening stroke care through the Hub-and-Spoke Model The AI-based Hub-and-Spoke stroke model offers advantages for both diagnostic centres and hospitals. Diagnostic centres benefit by becoming active participants in life-saving care, ensuring that stroke findings are immediately escalated to specialist teams rather than ending at diagnosis. For the Hospital, the model enables early clinical decision-making, faster patient transfers, better utilisation of the golden window, and improved treatment outcomes. By creating a seamless, technology-driven link between diagnosis and intervention, the model reduces delays, optimises resources, and sets a new standard for coordinated stroke care.
30 January,2026 01:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFor decades, the conversation around brain health has been dominated by a single image: a piece of salmon or a bottle of fish oil. For vegetarians, vegans, or those participating in Veganuary, this has often felt like an exclusion from essential cognitive nutrition.However, as we enter a new era of nutritional science, the focus is shifting. Experts argue that the brain can thrive on plant-based sources—if you know the kitchen chemistry required to unlock them. This Veganuary, we look at strategically using walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds to help you feed your brain effectively while adhering to a plant-based lifestyle. The cognitive engine: Why your brain craves omega-3s The human brain is nearly 60 per cent fat, making the quality of your dietary fat intake a direct reflection of your cognitive performance. As Dr Preeti Mohanty, dietician at Apollo Clinic, explains, “For years, omega-3s have been closely associated with fish, leaving many vegetarians wondering where that leaves them. The good news is that plant-based foods like walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds do offer Omega-3s. They are not just a single nutrient but a family of fats that serve as the building blocks for brain cells.” Below, she details reasons why omega 3 is important for brain health: Mood and motivationIn terms of mood regulation, Omega-3s have a positive effect on the neurotransmitters that affect the mood and motivation, such as serotonin and dopamine. Adequate Omega-3 intake appears to be associated with less anxiety, a better mood, and less mental fatigue. These improvements lead to better concentration, more effective stress management, and clearer thinking during mentally challenging situations, including exam periods and busy workdays. The anti-inflammatory shieldIn addition to providing a number of important functions, Omega-3s provide an additional benefit through their anti-inflammatory effects. Chronic, low-grade inflammation in the brain has been linked to cognitive decline and mood problems. By decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, Omega-3 fatty acids support long-term brain health and may help to slow the decline of cognitive function due to age.The conversion challenge: Understanding ALA, EPA, and DHA Walnuts, chia seeds and flaxseeds contain high amounts of ALA (Alpha Linolenic Acid), which is an Omega 3 fatty acid that comes from plants. “However, when it comes to brain function, Omega 3 fatty acids exist mainly in the form of EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid). ALA can be converted to both EPA and DHA by our bodies, however, this conversion process is not the most effective,” explains Dr Mohanty. The primary hurdle for vegetarians is that plant sources contain ALA (Alpha-Linolenic Acid), whereas the brain primarily uses EPA and DHA. Mohanty notes that the body must convert ALA into these active forms, but the process is inefficient. On average: 1. ALA to EPA: 5 per cent to 10 per cent conversion.2. ALA to DHA: Less than 1 per cent to 5 per cent conversion. Factors influencing conversion Not everyone converts these fats at the same rate. Factors include:• Gender: Women of childbearing age often convert ALA more efficiently due to the influence of estrogen.• Age and genetics: As we age, our enzymatic efficiency may decrease.• Dietary habits: What you eat alongside your seeds determines how much of that ‘brain fuel’ actually makes it to its destination. Unlocking the nutrients: Preparation is everything “You cannot simply eat a handful of seeds and expect results. The physical structure of these foods determines their bioavailability,” explains Dr Mohanty. She outlines the best way to consume essential seeds:The flaxseed ruleThe grinding of flaxseeds drastically increases the number of nutrients absorbed by the body. Because of the hardness of the outer shell of a flaxseed, it typically does not break down until after passing time through the entire digestive tract. Therefore, the body is not capable of absorbing all of the Omega-3 from a whole flaxseed. To access the ALA and lignans inside, you must use freshly ground flaxseed. It is important to remember that ground flaxseed is highly sensitive to light and heat. For maximum storage efficacy, ground flaxseeds should be stored in an air-tight container in the refrigerator to avoid the possibility of their oxidation.The chia seed strategyWhen chia seeds are soaked or mixed with liquid, they form a gel-like substance that aids the body in digesting them. Although soaking chia seeds in liquid before consuming them may improve the absorption of the nutrients contained within slightly, for the majority of people, soaking them is more than adequate in order to achieve maximum absorption of nutrients.Kitchen chemistry: Managing heat and oxidationOne of the most common mistakes in plant-based nutrition is killing the fats before they reach the plate. “Omega-3s are polyunsaturated, making them the most chemically fragile fats in your pantry,” says Dr Tehseen Siddiqui, chief dietitian at Saifee Hospital. The heat shield conceptShe elaborates on the ‘bread and muffin rule.’ While Omega-3s are fragile, they can survive baking at 180 degree Celsius f they are encased in a moist dough. The water content acts as a heat shield, protecting the nutrients.No fryingIt is not advisable to use flax or walnut oil for high-heat frying.No dark toastingIf you toast walnuts until they are dark brown, the oils have likely oxidised, turning a healthy fat into a pro-inflammatory one. Optimisation strategies: The synergy secret For you to benefit from your seeds fully, you need to take them along with foods that aid in their absorption or conversion. “To overcome the low conversion rate of ALA, you must use synergistic foods—ingredients that work together to enhance absorption,” says Dr Siddiqui. She details four ways to extract the most nutritional benefit from your diet: Antioxidant powerhouseCombine your walnuts with blueberries and dark chocolate to get their polyphenols to preserve the Omega-3 fatty acids from becoming oxidised in your body and reaching your brain cells intact. A touch of fatWhile seeds contain their natural fat, having them after adding a touch of monounsaturated fat from an avocado is helpful for absorption. The turmeric connectionSome research has now shown that complementing your body’s ability with curcumin, which can be found in turmeric, can help your body turn ALA from plants into DHA, which happens to be your brain’s favourite form of Omega-3s. The role of micronutrientsConversion requires specific cofactors, a diet rich in zinc, magnesium, vitamin B6, and iron (found in whole grains and pulses) provides the enzymes necessary for fatty acid metabolism. The blockers: What to remove from your diet Optimising your Omega-3 levels requires more than just high-quality intake, it requires the removal of biological blockers. “Even the best plant-based diet can be undermined by common dietary staples that compete for the same enzymatic pathways, effectively neutralising your efforts,” says Richa Anand, chief dietitian, Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital in Powai. The Omega-6 competition Refined vegetable oils—such as sunflower, soybean, and corn oil—are dense in Omega-6 fatty acids. Because Omega-6 and Omega-3 share the same enzymatic machinery for processing, a high intake of these oils creates a biological bottleneck. This effectively crowds out Omega-3s, preventing your body from converting them into usable brain fuel. Swap refined vegetable oils for extra virgin olive oil, mustard oil, or rice bran oil to clear the pathway for brain-healthy fats. The inflammation trap Highly processed foods loaded with trans fats and added sugars trigger systemic inflammation. This inflammatory state acts as a direct antagonist to Omega-3s, neutralising their neuroprotective benefits. Essentially, a high-sugar diet mops up the potential gains from your walnut and chia seed intake before they can reach your brain. Refined sugars Excess sugar triggers systemic inflammation, which acts as a direct biological antagonist to Omega-3s. This creates a physiological zero-sum game where the neuroprotective benefits of your healthy fats are effectively neutralized by the inflammatory damage of refined sugars. The daily prescription: how much is enough? Consistency is the golden rule. You don't need ‘bucketloads’ of seeds, you need a daily habit. Anand suggests the following daily targets: 1. 7 to 10 halves of walnuts that are raw or lightly baked.2. 1 to 2 tablespoons of chia seeds that have been soaked in liquid.3. 1 to 2 tablespoons of freshly ground flaxseeds.
30 January,2026 11:02 AM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalUse of artificial intelligence in Sweden's national breast cancer screening programme has revealed that AI-supported mammography screening is more effective than standard mammography, according to full results from a 2023 trial published in The Lancet journal. AI-supported breast cancer screening identified more women with clinically relevant cancers without a higher rate of false positives, the results show. Researchers from Lund University and other institutes in Sweden, Norway, Denmark and the Netherlands, also found that women who underwent AI-supported screening were less likely to be diagnosed with more aggressive and advanced breast cancer in the following two years. In August 2023, interim results from the Mammography Screening with Artificial Intelligence (MASAI) showed that use of AI resulted in the detection of 20 per cent more cancers compared with standard screening. The team also found that screen-reading workload for radiologists reduced by 44 per cent. The full results now show that AI-supported mammography also reduces cancer diagnoses in the years following a breast cancer screening appointment by 12 per cent -- a key test of screening programme effectiveness, the researchers said. "Our study is the first randomised controlled trial investigating the use of AI in breast cancer screening and the largest to date looking at AI use in cancer screening in general," lead author Dr Kristina Lang, a breast radiologist and clinical researcher from Lund University, Sweden, said. She added, "AI-supported screening improves the early detection of clinically relevant breast cancers which led to fewer aggressive or advanced cancers diagnosed in between screenings." Between April 2021 and December 2022, over 1,05,900 women were randomly assigned to either AI-supported mammography screening or to standard double reading by radiologists without AI. The AI system was trained, validated, and tested with more than two lakh examinations from multiple institutions across more than ten countries. During the follow-up period of two years, 1.55 interval cancers per 1,000 women (82/53,043) were detected in the AI-supported mammography group, compared to 1.76 interval cancers per 1,000 women (93/52,872) in the standard double reading group -- a 12 per cent reduction in interval cancer diagnosis for the AI arm. An interval cancer is a malignancy detected between scheduled screening tests, after a prior negative result and before the next routine check-up. Further, 81 per cent of cancer cases (338/420) in the AI-supported mammography group were detected at screening, compared to 74 per cent of cancer cases (262/355) in the standard reading group -- a nine per cent increase. Rates of false positives were similar for both the groups -- 1.5 per cent in the AI-assisted mammography reading and 1.4 per cent in the standard reading group. "Widely rolling out AI-supported mammography in breast cancer screening programmes could help reduce workload pressures amongst radiologists, as well as helping to detect more cancers at an early stage, including those with aggressive subtypes," Lang 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.
30 January,2026 09:47 AM IST | New Delhi | PTIDoctors in Thane have performed a combined liver–kidney transplant on a 55-year-old man who had been on dialysis for 15 years, offering him a renewed lease on life. The man had end-stage renal disease and was undergoing alternate-day dialysis for over a decade under the care of Dr. Pooja Binani, consultant nephrologist at Jupiter Hospital. Eight years ago, he was also diagnosed with liver cirrhosis caused by Hepatitis C. Although antiviral therapy cured the infection, his liver function progressively deteriorated, eventually leading to liver failure. The liver disease was managed by Dr Parijat Gupte, consultant hepatologist, who closely monitored the worsening hepatic function. With two vital organs failing simultaneously, the physiological stress on the patient’s body — particularly the heart and lungs — was significantly high. After meticulous optimisation by the nephrology and hepatology teams, the patient was listed for a simultaneous liver–kidney transplant. When a suitable deceased donor was identified, both organs from the same donor were allocated to him. The combined procedure posed multiple challenges, including prolonged surgical duration, strict fluid management in the absence of kidney function, and minimising blood loss. The kidney transplant surgery was led by Dr. Lokesh Sinha, while the liver transplant was performed by the hepatobiliary transplant team. Dialysis equipment was kept on standby, and the anesthesia team closely monitored fluid and electrolyte balance throughout the procedure. Both transplants were completed successfully in approximately nine hours, without the need for blood transfusion or intraoperative dialysis. Postoperatively, the transplanted kidney took some time to function, requiring one session of dialysis. Soon after, the patient began passing urine naturally—an emotional milestone after eight years without urine output. He was discharged in stable condition and continues to recover well. Speaking about the case, Dr Anand Ramamurthy, director – Liver Transplant and Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Jupiter Hospital, Thane, said, “Combined liver–kidney transplantation is a true test of teamwork, timing, and surgical precision. When two organ systems fail, the physiological impact on the body is profound. In this case, careful planning, minimising blood loss, and strict fluid management were critical to success. Watching a patient pass urine naturally after eight years is deeply rewarding and reminds us why advanced transplant programmes are life-changing, not just life-saving.” This successful combined liver–kidney transplant underscores the importance of seamless collaboration between nephrology, hepatology, transplant surgery, and critical care teams. With precise planning and expert execution, the procedure not only restored vital organ function but also transformed the patient’s quality of life—demonstrating how advanced transplant care can deliver truly life-changing outcomes.
29 January,2026 04:20 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentObesity is rising at an alarming rate and is today a major public health challenge in India, said Economic Survey for 2025-26 on Thursday. According to the Economic Survey, tabled in the Parliament by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the concerning trend was driven by unhealthy diets, lifestyle changes, including sedentary lifestyles, increased consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), and environmental factors. “It is affecting people across all age groups and increasing the risk of NCDs such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension, impacting both urban and rural populations,” the Survey said. Citing data from the 2019-21 National Family Health Survey (NFHS), the Survey said that 24 per cent of Indian women and 23 per cent of Indian men are overweight or obese. Among women aged 15-49 years, 6.4 per cent are obese, and among men, 4.0 per cent are obese. The prevalence of excess weight among children under five has risen from 2.1 per cent in 2015-16 to 3.4 per cent in 2019-21. As per estimates, more than 3.3 crore children in India were obese in 2020, and it is projected to reach 8.3 crore children by 2035. The Economic Survey also flagged concern over the rising UPF market in the country, which is displacing long-established dietary patterns, worsening diet quality, and is associated with increased risk of multiple chronic diseases. “India is one of the fastest-growing markets for UPF sales. It grew by more than 150 per cent from 2009 to 2023. Retail sales of UPFs in India surged from $0.9 billion in 2006 to nearly $38 billion in 2019, a 40-fold rise. It is during the same period that obesity has nearly doubled in both men and women. This mirrors the global rise of obesity, parallel to dietary shifts,” it said. “The rising use of UPFs imposes a substantial economic cost through higher healthcare spending, lost productivity, and long-term fiscal strain,” it added. The Survey also cited comprehensive, multi-pronged initiatives launched by the government to prevent, manage, and reduce obesity in the country. The interventions include POSHAN Abhiyaan & Poshan 2.0, Fit India Movement, Khelo India, Eat Right India, Nationwide Awareness Campaign - ‘Aaj Se Thoda Kam’ and AAMs, the School Health Programme, and Yoga promotion. These aim to promote a holistic approach that integrates health, nutrition, physical activity, food safety, and lifestyle modifications and continue to advance the goal of a healthier, stronger, and obesity-free India. 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 January,2026 02:06 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSAmid growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, a new large-scale clinical trial published in The Lancet on Thursday showed that an AI-enabled stethoscope can boost early detection of various heart diseases. A team of Spanish researchers found that an AI-enabled stethoscope helped doctors in identifying early signs of serious heart conditions, such as heart failure, arrhythmias, and valve disease, in primary care clinics. The study found that introducing the technology to doctors led to a substantially faster and more frequent detection -- nearly twice as many new heart failure cases and three times as many detections of irregular heart rhythms -- of these cardiovascular conditions, indicating that the device performed well. “Primary care faces a growing workload and limited resources, making it the ideal recipient of the efficiencies promised by artificial intelligence (AI). The potential of AI to improve diagnostic accuracy through decision support systems or image analysis is clear. However, implementing these tools into primary care workflows remains challenging,” said corresponding author Sergio Cinza-Sanjurjo from Santiago de Compostela University, Spain. The TRICORDER trial is the first cluster randomised controlled implementation trial (RCIT) of a clinical AI technology on a national scale, involving 205 UK NHS general practices and more than 1.5 million registered patients in the UK. The AI stethoscope integrates three algorithms designed to detect heart failure, irregular heart rhythms, and valve disease during routine appointments. Over the 12-month study period, doctors performed nearly 13,000 AI-assisted cardiac examinations. While the overall heart failure detection rates were similar between the groups (1,342 new cases in the AI group versus 1,984 in usual care), subgroup analyses showed that patients examined with the AI stethoscope had significantly higher detection rates compared to patients who were not examined with the AI device. The trial suggests that AI tools such as smart stethoscopes could help physicians detect heart problems earlier in routine care, but only if they’re properly integrated into day-to-day clinical operations. Despite strong algorithmic accuracy, real-world benefit depended heavily on clinician engagement and workflow integration. Many practices reported declining use of the AI stethoscope over time, citing extra steps in routine work and limited electronic health record integration as key barriers. 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 January,2026 12:37 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSLack of awareness on timely treatment is fuelling mental health disorders in young Indian adults, said health experts on Wednesday, January 28. Speaking at the 77th Annual National Conference of the Indian Psychiatric Society (ANCIPS 2026), leading mental health experts noted that the excess use of digital devices may further drive mental disorders. The high-level scientific deliberations revealed that nearly 60 per cent of mental disorders in India are diagnosed in individuals below the age of 35. They pointed out that the Covid-19 pandemic, combined with economic uncertainty and changing social structures, has further intensified stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms in this age group. “When 60 per cent of mental disorders are affecting people below 35 years of age, it becomes clear that India’s mental health crisis is unfolding far earlier than we once believed. These are the years when individuals are studying, building careers, and contributing to society,” said Dr. Deepak Raheja, Organising Secretary of ANCIPS Delhi. “Excess use of digital devices and dependency on the virtual world will further increase mental issues in the future. One of the main reasons for the rising cases in India is a lack of awareness of timely treatment. If reported on time, almost all the mental disorders can be treated successfully, and patients can lead a normal life,” added Dr. Nimesh G. Desai, former Director of the Institute of Human Behaviour & Allied Sciences (IHBAS). Desai emphasised that mental disorders that begin in youth often follow a lifelong course if not treated early. “These impact not just the individual, but families, workplaces, and the country’s overall productivity. Psychiatry in India must move from a reactive approach to a preventive and early-intervention-driven model,” he said. The experts cautioned that when mental disorders begin early and remain untreated, they often become chronic, leading to long-term disability and high social and economic costs. “Rapid social change has significantly altered young people’s lived experiences. Today’s youth are dealing with intense academic competition, constant digital comparison, loneliness despite connectivity, and uncertainty about employment and relationships. Mental health services must adapt to these realities and become more accessible, youth-friendly, and stigma-free,” said Dr Savita Malhotra, President of the Indian Psychiatric Society. Raheja said that early identification, school- and college-based mental health programmes, and destigmatisation are no longer optional; they are essential if we want to protect the future of our nation. 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 January,2026 05:01 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSA team of Indian and US researchers has developed an artificial intelligence (AI)-based technique to detect diabetes without the traditional blood tests. The technique can detect whether a person has high blood sugar by taking a high-resolution photo of the retina (back of the eye). The study, published in the Diabetes Technology and Therapeutics journal, showed that AI can spot tiny warning signs in the eye’s blood vessels that are invisible to the human eye, which can differentiate people with and without diabetes without a finger-prick blood test. "India has over 100 million people with diabetes, and very often, many do not even know they have it. If the use of AI tools with simple retinal photos can help early diagnosis of diabetes, it can be used in real-time in the future to screen for diabetes," said Dr. V. Mohan, a Chennai-based diabetologist and a Padma Shri awardee, who was part of the study. Dr. Sudeshna Sil Kar, from Emory University, US, shared that the researchers trained the AI to look at specific shapes and patterns in the veins using retinal photos of people without and with diabetes. The team, including those from Yenepoya (deemed to be) University in Karnataka, analysed 273 retinal images from 139 participants. They extracted 226 quantitative vessel tortuosity features separately for arteries and veins using machine vision-based approaches. The AI technique was precise in correctly identifying diabetes using retinal photographs in the test group with 95 per cent sensitivity. The system could even spot ‘prediabetes’, which is the stage where lifestyle modification can help prevent diabetes. It could prove to be an effective non-invasive mode of detecting diabetes early, as it does not require expensive laboratory equipment. The patients also do not need to fast or undergo a blood test. The method just requires a quick photo of the back of the eye, said the researchers. The expert, however, stressed the need for validating the research findings in a larger population. 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 January,2026 04:50 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSHealth experts on January 27 have urged the government to introduce tax-funded Universal Health Care, and boost resources at government hospitals in the upcoming Union Budget 2026. The experts also highlighted the lack of funds to in public health care institutions to deliver adequate services to a large number of patients and stressed the need to expand PMJAY to include outpatient care. “We advocate tax-funded Universal Health Care with a basic health package for all citizens and to increase public health allocation to 2.5-5 per cent of GDP, strengthening government hospitals and human resources,” said Dr Vinay Aggarwal, past National President, Indian Medical Association. “The government should reform PMJAY to include outpatient care, realistic package rates, DBT, copayments, and timely reimbursements,” he added. The expert also urged the government “to provide GST exemption on lifesaving equipment, consumables, and all vaccines". A recent report by The Lancet Commission stressed that the public sector healthcare system is the backbone for achieving the universal health coverage goal. An accompanying Comment paper examined India’s progress towards universal health coverage and highlights structural weaknesses in the health system. It particularly highlighted fragmented governance, poor coordination across levels of care, health services organised around institutions rather than citizens, and persistent gaps in quality, equity, and continuity of care as major barriers to UHC. The paper suggested that India’s path to universal health care requires multiple programmes and noted that operating in silos can weaken accountability and service continuity. Healthcare delivery must remain facility-centred rather than focused on patient journeys and long-term care needs. It also mentioned that weak referral systems and poor integration between primary, secondary, and tertiary services limit efficiency and outcomes. The study stressed that policy intent alone is insufficient without institutional capacity to execute reforms. “While over the last few years, the government has increased the allocation for healthcare in its budget, the continued prioritisation on capacity building has often left public healthcare facilities with insufficient funds to deliver adequate services to the large number of patients that they serve,” said Aditya Banerjee, Member at Medical Technology Association of India (MTaI). “A deliberate shift in the public procurement criteria, from the lowest upfront price to the best long‑term value for the overall healthcare system, is essential for delivering better patient outcomes for every Rupee spent,” he added. Banerjee said that it will help avoid the spiralling healthcare budgets, that today is becoming unsustainable in many developed economies of the world. 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 January,2026 09:39 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSIn the modern digital landscape, the glow of a smartphone is often the last thing we see before closing our eyes. While the impact of blue light on sleep quality is well-documented, a new frontier of endocrine research is emerging: the connection between high-energy visible (HEV) light and the thyroid gland. This Thyroid Awareness Month, we delve into the surprising biological link between our late-night screen use and the endocrine system. Does scrolling through social media at midnight actually interfere with your body’s metabolic pace? To answer this, mid-day spoke to Dr Pranav Ghody, consultant endocrinologist and diabetologist at Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai Central, and Dr Tejaswi V, consultant in diabetes and endocrinology at Manipal Hospital in Kanakapura Road in Bengaluru. The invisible connection: The master clock theory To understand how a screen affects a gland in your neck, one must first look at the brain. Dr Pranav explains, “The key link is the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), located in the hypothalamus. Often referred to as the body’s master clock, the SCN receives light signals directly from the eyes.”While the thyroid itself does not 'see' light, the blue light—which is abundant in digital screens—activates the SCN, signalling to the brain that it is daytime. “This synchronisation (or lack thereof) governs multiple hormonal systems, specifically the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Thyroid (HPT) axis, the command centre for your metabolism. When you use a screen late at night, you aren't just staying awake; you are confusing the conductor of your hormonal orchestra,” he elaborates. The TSH Rhythm: Why timing is everything The thyroid gland controls everything from body temperature and energy levels to mood and heart rate. However, these hormones aren't released at a steady rate throughout the day.Dr Tejaswi notes, “The body operates on a 24-hour biological clock called the circadian rhythm. Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) typically peaks at night and falls during the day. The HEV light during the night can interfere with regular thyroid hormone production time.”Dr Pranav adds that while a single night of scrolling won't ‘switch off’ your TSH, chronic exposure can blunt the amplitude of this natural cycle. “For individuals with borderline thyroid function, this repeated disruption can become clinically relevant, leading to persistent fatigue even when blood tests appear normal," he adds. The cortisol connection: Stress versus metabolism One of the most significant ‘hidden’ impacts of late-night blue light is its effect on cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. Studies suggest that bright artificial light at night can elevate cortisol levels by up to 15 per cent as the brain stays in a state of high alert.This creates a secondary hurdle for thyroid health. Dr Tejaswi explains, “Elevated cortisol levels can hamper the conversion of inactive thyroid hormone (T4) into its active form (T3), which the body actually uses for metabolism. You may have enough thyroid hormone in your system, but your body can't unlock it for use because the stress signals are standing in the way.” Metabolism and the domino effect Can late-night scrolling actually make you gain weight? Indirectly, the answer is yes. The Mumbai-based expert states, “When your circadian rhythm is disturbed, it triggers a domino effect across several metabolic markers.”1. Insulin sensitivity: It begins to decline, making it harder for your body to process sugars.2. Appetite hormones: Ghrelin (the hunger hormone) rises while Leptin (the fullness hormone) falls.3. Energy expenditure: Metabolic inefficiency leads to reduced calorie burning the next day.Dr Pranav iterates, “While blue light alone doesn't cause hypothyroidism, it creates a metabolic environment where weight gain and chronic fatigue become much more likely.” Night shifts versus late-night scrolling Is your phone habit as damaging as working a night shift? Dr Pranav clarifies, “While night-shift workers experience a much more severe and chronic misalignment—linked to higher rates of cardiovascular risk and metabolic disorders—the mechanism for screen users is comparable. Late-night screen use mimics a milder version of shift-work physiology. Over years, this repeated minor disruption increases vulnerability, particularly for those with a genetic predisposition to thyroid disease.” The vulnerable population: Who is most at risk? Individuals already diagnosed with thyroid disorders or those taking medication like Levothyroxine are particularly sensitive to the blue light effect, according to Dr Tejaswi. She notes that patients with hypothyroidism or autoimmune thyroid disease may experience:1. Greater symptom perception: Worsening fatigue and joint pain due to aggravated stress hormones.2. Medication inconsistency: Sleep disturbances can affect how efficiently the body responds to and processes thyroid medication.3. Sleep fragility: A heightened sensitivity to the wake-inducing effects of HEV light. The filter fallacy: Are night mode settings enough? A common question in the endocrinologist's office is whether blue light filters or night shift modes on phones are a cure-all. Both experts urge caution.While these tools shift the light spectrum to warmer wavelengths, they are rarely a complete solution for the endocrine system. The Bengaluru health expert highlights that mental stimulation is just as disruptive as the light itself. Engaging with social media, news, or work emails keeps the brain active and the SCN awake, regardless of the colour of the screen.The most effective strategy remains limiting use entirely for 60 to 90 minutes before sleep to allow the endocrine system to transition into rest mode.Protecting your thyroid in the digital age: A strategic plan The goal, according to Dr Pranav, is smart exposure, not fear. We cannot avoid screens entirely, but we can manage our hormonal hygiene. He outlines four simple ways through which you can strategically manage exposure: 1. Prioritise morning sunlightThe thyroid benefits from predictable routines. Exposure to natural daylight first thing in the morning strengthens the SCN’s master clock, making it more resilient to minor disruptions later in the evening.2. The 90-minute ruleAvoid screens in the final hour and a half before bed. Use this time for reading physical books, relaxation techniques, or light stretching to lower cortisol levels.3. Create a device-free sanctuaryThe sleep environment should be dark and cool. Even small LED lights from chargers or routers can interfere with melatonin production in sensitive individuals.4. Medication disciplineIf you are on thyroid medication, consistency is vital. Take it exactly as prescribed, and ensure you are getting 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep to allow the medication to work in harmony with your body’s natural rhythms. The expert verdict Dr Pranav offers a final, powerful metaphor for thyroid health: "Think of the thyroid as part of an orchestra. When the conductor—the master clock—is confused, the entire performance suffers." Protecting your sleep and respecting your body's natural timing is not just about feeling rested; it is a fundamental pillar of long-term endocrine health. While blue light may not damage the thyroid in the way a physical injury would, it creates a discord in the delicate balance of hormones that regulate your life.
27 January,2026 01:10 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalChinese researchers have unveiled a crucial mutation in the Ebola virus that significantly enhanced its infectivity during a major outbreak, providing new insights for epidemic surveillance and drug development. The study, published in the journal Cell, focused on the Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) from 2018 to 2020, the second-largest in history, which caused over 3,000 infections and more than 2,000 deaths, Xinhua news agency reported. "The research tells us that during major emerging infectious disease outbreaks, real-time genomic surveillance and evolutionary analysis of the pathogen are crucial," said Professor Qian Jun from Sun Yat-sen University. "This is not only able to warn of changes in transmission risk but also to prospectively assess the effectiveness of existing drugs and vaccines, guiding us to preemptively adjust control strategies," Jun added. A key question drove the research, namely, beyond the impact of local healthcare challenges, did viral evolution itself contribute to the Ebola outbreak's prolonged duration? "We have long been aware that key viral mutations often act as invisible drivers accelerating transmission during major outbreaks. Having worked on Ebola for over a decade, we had to investigate whether similar patterns of mutation existed for this virus," said Jun, explaining the team's motivation. In 2022, the team analysed 480 complete Ebola virus genomes and discovered that a variant carrying a specific mutation in the viral glycoprotein, named GP-V75A, had emerged early in the DRC epidemic. This variant rapidly replaced the original strain, and its rising prevalence closely mirrored the surge in case numbers, suggesting it might confer a transmission advantage, according to the research team. Subsequent experiments using various models confirmed the mutation's biological impact. It showed that GP-V75A had significantly enhanced the virus's ability to infect multiple types of host cells and mice. Furthermore, this study revealed a potential clinical concern, notably that the GP-V75A mutation had diminished the antiviral effectiveness of some existing therapeutic antibodies and small-molecule entry inhibitors, indicating a possible risk of drug resistance. These findings underscore the importance of continuous viral genome monitoring during outbreaks to anticipate evolutionary threats and inform the development of broad-spectrum countermeasures, the research team 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 January,2026 12:31 PM IST | Beijing | IANSADVERTISEMENT
