Doctors in Bengaluru have achieved a major medical milestone by successfully performing a rare and highly complex robotic double valve replacement using the latest-generation Da Vinci Xi Surgical System on an elderly woman giving her a new lease of life. The procedure was led by Dr Sathyaki Nambala, renowned cardiac surgeon and chief of Robotic Cardiac Surgery at Apollo Hospitals, Bengaluru. This landmark surgery marks a significant advancement in bringing complex multi-valve replacement into the domain of minimally invasive, robotic-assisted cardiac care in India. Although robotic double valve replacement was reported in India over a decade ago, those early attempts were limited to first-generation robotic systems. The patient, a 53-year-old elderly woman, presented with severe destruction of both the aortic and mitral valves due to infective endocarditis. She also suffered from multiple comorbidities, including rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, thyroid dysfunction, and a prior stroke, making her a high-risk candidate for conventional open-heart surgery. Given the complexity, the surgical team opted for a minimally invasive robotic approach using the Da Vinci Xi Surgical System. A simultaneous aortic and mitral valve replacement with bioprosthetic valves was successfully performed under transesophageal echocardiographic (TEE) guidance. The entire surgery was completed through small keyhole incisions, without the need for a midline sternotomy.The patient was extubated and mobilised within 12 hours, transferred to the ward shortly thereafter, and discharged on the third postoperative day. At her one-week follow-up, she remained asymptomatic and in good health, highlighting the safety, precision, and patient-centric advantages of robotic cardiac surgery even in high-risk cases. Dr Nambala, National Director, Robotic Cardiac Surgery, Apollo Hospitals said, “This achievement represents a major milestone not only for the hospital, but for the cardiac surgery community in Asia. While robotic double valve replacement has been attempted in the past, performing it today with next-generation robotic platforms introduces an entirely new level of precision, control, and safety. This evolution has allowed us to reinvent what is possible in complex multi-valve surgery through a truly minimally invasive approach.” Dr. Girish B. Navasundi, Director Cath Lab & Senior Consultant – Cardiology, at the hospital, added, “The success of this procedure highlights how advanced robotic technology is redefining the landscape of cardiac surgery. It demonstrates the immense potential of minimally invasive, robotic-assisted interventions in managing complex valvular heart disease safely and effectively—ensuring reduced surgical trauma, minimal blood loss, and faster recovery for patients.” Akshay Oleti, CEO of the hospital in Karnataka, stated, "Dr Sathyaki and his team reached this milestone through their unmatched experience of over 3,000 minimally invasive cardiac procedures and more than 600 robotic cardiac surgeries.”
10 December,2025 05:31 PM IST | Bengaluru | mid-day online correspondentIntegrating universal screening for depression in India's primary healthcare system could be expected to generate a net savings of Rs 291 billion to Rs 482 billion, a study published in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia has estimated. Researchers, including those from the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh and National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru, said the savings is equivalent to 0.19 per cent to 0.32 per cent of the country's gross domestic product. People aged 20 and older would be cheaper to screen than those above 30, the study found. The researchers also noted that the screening programme could save money if at least 60 per cent of patients receiving treatment go through public healthcare facilities. Current practices involve 'opportunistic diagnoses' -- in which diagnosis is incidental, such as through tests done for other reasons -- and managing patients showing symptoms of the mental disorder. Cashless healthcare services related to 22 procedures of the mental disorder specialty, including intellectual disability, schizophrenia and autism, are available to those eligible under the health benefit package of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri-Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), according to a March 2025 statement by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The study indicates "substantial public health and economic benefits" of integrating population-based depression screening into the primary healthcare system, the researchers said. The findings also support the case for a primary healthcare oriented-health system, they added. Data from National Mental Health Survey and the National Sample Survey, along with those from previously published studies were analysed. "The (universal depression screening) program is expected to generate net savings of Rs 291 billion (USD 3.7 billion) to Rs 482 billion (USD 6.1 billion), equivalent to 0.19 per cent to 0.32 per cent of GDP," the authors wrote. "Expanding coverage to individuals aged 20 years and above, along with ensuring high diagnostic accuracy through quality training and supportive supervision, will be key to sustaining and maximising the programme's impact," they added. The population-based screening is also projected to reduce depression-related suicides by about 15 per cent yearly, highlighting the importance of early detection and intervention in averting fatal outcomes, the authors said. "Our analysis strongly supports the adoption of a universal two-step screening strategy for depression, using PHQ-2 (questionnaire) followed by PHQ-9 within India's government primary healthcare system," they said. Patient Health Questionnaire-2 and 9 are designed for screening, diagnosing and monitoring depression severity in adults, and used widely around the world in diverse settings, including primary care and research. 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
10 December,2025 11:51 AM IST | New Delhi | PTIFrom limited exposure to sunlight to reduced physical activity, there are a number of changes in lifestyle during the colder months, that lead to an increased susceptibility to illness especially among seniors. As winter grips the nation, it becomes critical to maintain a balanced diet to ensure the well-being of seniors. With the winter season underway, health experts outline the common nutritional deficiencies, and dietary challenges faced by seniors, such as decreased appetite, limited mobility, and dehydration. They also delve into the importance of key nutrients to focus on, and practical tips that can be incorporated in daily routines. Common nutritional deficienciesDuring these colder months, our body's ability to fight off infections can weaken, increasing the risk of various ailments. Beyond respiratory health concerns, flu, and sinus infections, winter can pose unique dietary challenges for seniors. Decreased sunlight exposure, and changes in appetite can impact their nutritional intake. “Lack of movement during winters is also observed among seniors which can lead to weight gain, digestive issues such as constipation, indigestion and unhealthy gut,” explains Edwina Raj, head of services - clinical nutrition and dietetics, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru. Understanding these common dietary challenges is essential for ensuring that seniors receive the proper nourishment they need. Vitamin D deficiencyMost seniors prefer to stay indoor during winter season that prevents them from exposing to sunlight which may result in low Vitamin D levels. Low levels of Vitamin D reduce the absorption of calcium in our body which is crucial in ageing population and disrupts various mechanism involved leading to deficiency. Protein deficiencyThe process of ageing itself increases the burden of muscle loss which worsen by not eating adequate protein in your diet. DehydrationThis chilled weather does not make you feel thirsty and to avoid visiting rest room frequently or changing adult diapers, seniors choose to drink less water which may anticipate urinary tract infections, dehydration and constipation. Essential fatty acid deficiencyNutrient deficiencies related to essential fats such as omega 3 are commonly observed due to poor quality diets, lack of interest in preparation and awareness among elderly are commonly observed but cold weather can aggravate their body aches and joint pain which can be controlled through anti-inflammatory property of omega 3 an antioxidant-rich foods. Dietary essentials to consume dailyFortunately, we can significantly improve our winter well-being through a combination of healthy lifestyle choices and a balanced diet. Swati Mohapatra, chief dietician, Manipal Hospital, Bhubaneswar outlines dietary essentials and their sources that should be consumed by seniors daily. IronEssential for oxygen transport and preventing issues like anaemia and fatigue. Iron is commonly found in green leafy vegetables, jaggery, eggs, fish, millets, and dates. Vitamin CBoosts immunity, aids iron absorption, and provides antioxidant protection. It is advised to maintain a healthy intake of citrus fruits, amla, and leafy vegetables. FibreImproves digestion, reduces the risk of heart disease, and helps regulate blood sugar. Including complex carbs with fibre-rich foods such as whole grains, millets, vegetables and fruits would be helpful to even boost the intake of good quality nutrients too that combats stress, controls blood glucose, can manage weight with better digestive health. Vitamin DCritical for calcium absorption and bone health. Milk products, ragi, leafy vegetables, fish, eggs, and nuts should be consumed daily by seniors. HydrationStaying hydrated is essential in winter, even though you may not feel as thirsty. Water is a vital nutrient to keep one hydrated and flush out toxins which will keep your infection at bay. Dehydration can worsen existing health conditions. Aim for glasses of water or fluids daily. Protein and healthy fatsInclude adequate sources of protein that prevent you from muscle degradation with regular exercise. These are crucial for maintaining muscle mass and overall health. Good sources of protein and healthy fats are nuts, seeds, eggs, fish, chicken, legumes, pulses, millets, rice bran oil, and olive oil. Anti-inflammatory and fermented foodsAnti-inflammatory rich foods such as omega 3 and antioxidant rich foods such as nuts, seeds, fish, vegetable oils, turmeric, pepper, mild spices, fruits and vegetables are beneficial for overall health. Yogurt, fermented foods can benefit you with probiotic which can maintain good gut health. 5 tips for maintaining a balanced diet It is not uncommon to experience appetite changes with progressing age. With age, there may be decline in both appetite and taste sensitivity, making it harder for seniors to consume enough nutrients. Ensuring adequate nutrition is paramount, as nutritional deficiency might lead to muscle loss, impact bone health, cause weakness and affect overall energy levels,” states Dr Sreenivasa D, consultant - gastroenterology, Manipal Hospital, Hebbal. She shares five practical tips to help seniors achieve their nutrition goals: 1. Aiming for five smaller meals a day rather than three large meals, to help increase food intake without overwhelming the digestive system.2. Limiting fluids during meals but ensuring adequate water intake throughout the day to stay hydrated.3. Including protein-rich snacks, like nuts or yogurt, between meals to boost protein intake.4. Consuming a colourful diet that includes different fruits, vegetables, and nuts regularly to make meals more appealing, even if appetite is reduced.5. Using nutritional supplements (if needed) like protein shakes between meals to help meet nutritional needs. Eight strategies for managing digestive issuesConstipation is a common concern among seniors, especially during the winter months. To manage this issue, it’s important to address both physical and lifestyle factors. Dr Sreenivasa recommends the following lifestyle modifications:1. At least 30 to 45 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week to promote healthy digestion.2. Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water daily to support bowel function.3. Include 1 to 2 servings of fruits and vegetables daily to increase fibre intake, which helps prevent constipation.4. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule to help regulate digestion and overall health.5. Elevating the feet while sitting on the toilet can help in easier bowel movements, especially if using a Western-style toilet.6. If these lifestyle changes don’t provide relief, fibre supplements or gentle laxatives like psyllium (isabgol) may help. 7. Avoid stimulant laxatives, as they can lead to dependency. 8. If there are signs of severe constipation, weight loss, or blood in stools, it’s crucial to seek medical advice. Healthy winter recipes for seniorsThe best kind of meal is one which leverages the nutritional prowess of seasonal vegetables. Mohapatra shares a few simple yet nutritious recipes for seniors that are ideal for winter: Easy to digestDishes like mixed lentil and vegetable khichri, dalia khichri, curd rice, soups, and stews. Flavourful and nutritiousExplore options like turmeric milk, ginger lemon tea, steamed fish, palak or methi paratha, missi roti, ragi pudding, ragi cake, ragi idli, millet khichri, and sprout chilla.
09 December,2025 05:16 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalThe Karnataka High Court on Tuesday stayed the state government's notification mandating one-day menstrual leave a month for working women. The November 9 notification made provision for one day paid menstrual leave per month to women employees aged between 18 and 52 years working in permanent, contractual and outsourced jobs. The stay was granted by a bench of Justice Jyoti M based on a petition filed by Bangalore Hotels' Association and Avirata AFL Connectivity Systems. The petitioners contended that the Karnataka government did not consult them before making such provisions. The menstrual leave was meant for women working in all industries and establishments registered under the Factories Act, 1948, Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1961, Plantation Workers Act, 1951, Beedi and Cigar Workers (Conditions of Employment) Act, 1966, and Motor Transport Workers Act, 1961. On December 2, the government had ordered the granting of one day of menstrual leave every month to female government employees of the state with immediate effect. 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
09 December,2025 04:46 PM IST | Bengaluru | PTIMumbai doctors are seeing more women report Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) cases during and after pregnancy. Pregnant and new mothers should watch for symptoms like leg swelling or pain and seek timely medical help. Early diagnosis and simple preventive measures can significantly reduce complications. With increasing awareness about maternal health, it is necessary to pay attention to another silent yet dangerous condition, Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). The condition occurs when a blood clot forms in the deep veins, usually in the legs, which can become life-threatening if the clot travels to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. Pregnancy naturally increases the risk because of hormonal changes, reduced mobility, and pressure on veins from the growing uterus. Timely intervention is key to managing this condition. DVT is a condition where blood thickens and forms clots in the deep veins, blocking normal blood flow. “During pregnancy, the body’s clotting tendency increases to prevent bleeding during childbirth, but this also raises the risk of abnormal clot formation. Other factors like long periods of sitting, cesarean delivery, obesity, and dehydration further contribute to DVT risk. The symptoms are swelling in one leg, pain or tenderness in the calf or thigh, and warmth or redness over the affected area. Pregnant and postpartum women should be alert to symptoms like swelling, pain, or heaviness in the legs. DVT is preventable if recognized early, and prompt medical evaluation can save lives,” said Dr Surabhi Siddhartha, consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Kharghar. Dr Surabhi further added, “DVT is diagnosed through Doppler ultrasound, which helps detect clots in the deep veins. Management involves blood-thinning medications prescribed under medical supervision. In pregnancy, doctors tailor treatment carefully to ensure both the mother's and the baby’s safety. To prevent this condition, stay active with light walking or prenatal exercises. Avoid sitting for long periods; stretch legs frequently. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Wear compression stockings if advised by your doctor. Report any leg pain or swelling immediately. While pregnancy brings joy, it also demands careful attention to maternal health. Awareness of DVT and timely medical guidance can prevent serious complications, ensuring a safe journey to motherhood and recovery after delivery.” Dr. Anagha Chhatrapati, senior consultant Gynecologist, Gleneagles Hospital, Mumbai, explains, "Pregnant women are not only at risk of hypertension, gestational diabetes, but also DVT. There is a higher risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) in pregnant women as the body becomes more prone to clotting to prevent bleeding during childbirth. In pregnant women, reduced mobility, pressure from the growing uterus on leg veins, and hormonal changes further slow blood flow, raising the chances of DVT. The symptoms seen in women are leg swelling, warmth, redness, and persistent pain, usually in one leg. Early management consists of prompt medical evaluation, Doppler scans, and safe anticoagulant medicines to be able to help women stay healthy and mobile. Staying active, hydrating well, and avoiding long periods of sitting are simple steps recommended for pregnant."
09 December,2025 03:24 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA total of 2,501 new confirmed cases, including 12 deaths due to mpox, were reported from 44 countries in October, said the World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday. The latest situation report for the multi-country outbreak of mpox showed that all clades of the monkeypox virus (MPXV) continue to circulate. When mpox outbreaks are not rapidly contained, and human-to-human transmission is not interrupted, there is a risk of sustained community transmission. “In October 2025, 44 countries, across all WHO regions, reported a total of 2,501 new confirmed mpox cases, including 12 deaths (case fatality ratio [CFR] 0.5 per cent),” the WHO report said. Twenty-one countries in Africa reported active transmission of mpox in the last six weeks (from October 12 to November 23), with 1,734 confirmed cases, including 10 deaths. Democratic Republic of Congo, Liberia, Ghana, Kenya, and Uganda reported the highest number of cases, with Mali reporting mpox for the first time. New imported cases of mpox due to clade Ib MPXV were reported among travellers in Belgium, Germany, Greece, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. A total of 43 new confirmed cases of mpox due to clade Ib MPXV have been reported across six WHO regions, between September 5 and November 24, outside areas where sustained community transmission of this virus strain has been occurring. In four of these regions (the Americas, Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Western Pacific), 24 cases reported no recent international travel, suggesting local transmission. Based on this, Italy, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and the US are now considered to be experiencing community transmission of clade Ib MPXV. In addition, travel-related cases continue to be reported in many countries. Among the 43 cases, half (22) were documented among men who have sex with men, while other cases were linked to travel to countries with known community transmission of clade Ib MPXV, or secondary to travel-related cases (household contacts and/or sexual partners). However, the “WHO assesses the public health risk posed by clade Ib MPXV as moderate for men who have sex with men with new and/or multiple partners, and the risk to the general population as low,” the global health agency said. Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is a viral infectious disease that spreads through close contact. Symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, muscle aches, skin rash, and back pain. It spreads primarily through skin-to-skin contact. 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
09 December,2025 01:34 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSAn immune and cancer cell-targeting antibody therapy has shown potential to eradicate residual traces of deadly blood cell cancer, multiple myeloma, according to interim results from a clinical trial. The trial included 18 patients who underwent up to six cycles of treatment with the antibody linvoseltamab. On highly sensitive tests, none of the patients had detectable disease, revealed the study presented at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) annual meeting in Orlando, US. The preliminary success suggests linvoseltamab -- a bispecific antibody -- could allow patients to avoid bone marrow transplants, which involve intense, high-potency chemotherapy. It also points to the long-term potential to improve patients’ odds against this disease. “These patients received modern and effective, up-front treatment that eliminated 90 per cent of their tumour,” said lead researcher Dickran Kazandjian, from the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine. “Usually, patients like these would receive high-dose chemotherapy and transplant. Instead, we give them a treatment with the drug linvoseltamab,” Kazandjian added. The researchers called the results so far “extremely impressive” and said the disappearance of the lingering myeloma cells bodes well for patients’ futures. While the new therapy can keep the disease away for years, the possibility of it returning cannot be eliminated. Multiple myeloma arises from antibody-producing immune cells called plasma cells. These cancerous cells build up, interfering with normal blood cells and causing damage. There is no established cure. The researchers noted that linvoseltamab binds to CD3, a protein on the T cells that destroy cancerous cells, and to a second target, BCMA, a protein on multiple myeloma cells. By bringing these two types of cells into contact, the antibody invigorates the body’s immune response to the cancer. In the study, a few patients experienced side effects, including decreases in white blood cells called neutropenia and upper respiratory infections, but all these events fell within an acceptable safety profile, according to Kazandjian. Based on its performance so far, researchers hoped that linvoseltamab could offer patients more durable responses than transplants, perhaps providing long-term control over the disease -- a “functional cure.” 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.
08 December,2025 01:33 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSChildren who spend more than 30 minutes on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat are likely to experience a gradual decline in their ability to concentrate, according to a study of more than 8,000 children from around age 10 through age 14. Researchers at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden and Oregon Health & Science University in the US investigated a possible link between screen habits and symptoms related to Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). They followed 8,324 children aged 9-14 in the US for four years, with the average time children spent on social media, watching TV/videos, and playing video games -- from approximately 30 minutes a day for 9-year-olds to 2.5 hours for 13-year-olds. Children who spent a significant amount of time on social media platforms, such as Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), or Messenger, gradually developed inattention symptoms, revealed the findings. In the study, the average time spent on social media rose from approximately 30 minutes a day for 9-year-olds to 2.5 hours for 13-year-olds, despite the fact that many platforms set their minimum age requirement at 13. The study, published in Pediatrics Open Science, however, found no such association among children watching television or playing video games. “Our study suggests that it is specifically social media that affects children’s ability to concentrate,” said Torkel Klingberg, professor of cognitive neuroscience at the Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet. “Social media entails constant distractions in the form of messages and notifications, and the mere thought of whether a message has arrived can act as a mental distraction. This affects the ability to stay focused and could explain the association,” Klingberg added. The association was not influenced by socioeconomic background or a genetic predisposition towards ADHD. In addition, children who already had symptoms of inattentiveness did not start to use social media more, which suggests that the association leads from use to symptoms and not vice versa. The researchers found no increase in hyperactive/impulsive behaviour. While the effect on concentration was small at the individual level. At a population level, however, it could have a significant impact, they 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.
08 December,2025 11:38 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSWith a rise in the ageing population in India and failing artificial joints, the demand for skilled surgeons for revision knee and hip surgeries is rising in the country, said experts on Saturday. Revision knee or hip replacement surgery, called Revision Arthroplasty, is done when any hip or knee replacement loosens, wears out, or fails. The artificial knee and hip joints are increasingly being subject to wear and tear, with their lifespan reduced to 20 to 25 years. “In India, a lot of elderly patients have undergone joint replacement, primarily due to a rise in degenerative arthritis, in the last 15-20 years. So, the burden of revision surgeries is going to increase, as the implants can wear off or any infection might occur, or some complication occurs,” Prof Vijay Kumar, Department of Orthopaedics, from AIIMS, told IANS. “With the number of ageing implants rising rapidly in India, the lack of specialised training can lead to premature failures, repeated operations, higher healthcare expenses, and long-term functional challenges for patients,” added Dr Samarth Mittal, Additional Professor, Orthopaedics, JPNA Trauma Centre, AIIMS, Delhi. The health experts, speaking on the sidelines of the three-day Revision Arthroplasty Conference (RAC) 2025, noted that revision surgeries are far more complex and a surgically demanding procedure than the primary implant surgery and require additional surgical skills. Kumar highlighted that the complexity is much higher, as, unlike the primary implant, during a revision surgery, there's already an implant inside. The failing implant is also causing a lot of bone loss, requiring special techniques and highly specialised training, planning, and experience. As India’s population of ageing implants continues to grow, inadequate training may result in early re-failure, repeat surgeries, escalated treatment costs, and long-term disability for patients. “India is entering an era where trained ‘revision’ knee and hip replacement surgeons are no longer optional - they are essential,” said Dr (Prof.) Anil Arora, a Robotic Knee and Hip Replacement and Orthopaedics surgeon, at a leading hospital in the city. “India urgently needs more skilled revision surgeons to meet the rising demand. Revision surgeries require advanced implants, sophisticated instrumentation, meticulous planning for bone loss, and expertise in dealing with aseptic loosening, implant wear, periprosthetic fractures, infections, and instability,” added Arora, also the organising chairman of RAC 2025. 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.
08 December,2025 09:51 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSChronic kidney diseases may accelerate cognitive decline but its manifestation differs in men and women, according to a new study. The decline is primarily due to damage to the "heart-brain link" triggered by chronic kidney illness, it said. Studying a rural population in the US, researchers from Marshall University found that men with chronic kidney disease experienced a higher cognitive impairment and a more pronounced reduction in heart function, compared to women. The findings, published in the American Journal of Physiology-Heart and Circulatory Physiology, suggest a stronger relation between the heart-brain link and cognitive decline among men, the researchers said. The study also sheds light on why men with chronic kidney diseases often face more severe cognitive effects, and points to potential sex-specific targets for early diagnosis and treatment, they added. "These results demonstrate that the biological pathways linking the kidney, heart, and brain are distinct in men and women," lead author Sneha S Pillai, research assistant professor of biomedical sciences at Marshall University's school of medicine, said. The authors wrote, "CKD (Chronic kidney disease) patients have higher blood pressure vs controls (normal), and men with CKD exhibited a decline in cardiac function vs sex and age-matched controls." The study looked at a community-dwelling rural population to understand sex-specific communication links of the kidney-heart-brain axis in patients of chronic kidney disease, they said. "Our findings will broaden the current understanding and clinical consequences of the pathophysiological interactions between kidney and CV (cardiovascular) damage with brain function in a sex-dependent manner that could prompt innovative pharmacological interventions," the authors wrote. Lead researcher Komal Sodhi, associate professor of surgery at Marshall University's school of medicine, said, "This work underscores the urgency of tailored strategies to prevent progression to more serious neurological disorders." 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
07 December,2025 05:25 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIIn fast-paced, densely populated metropolitans, the daily grind often involves navigating a complex web of environmental and digital stressors. While a fleeting moment of irritation in traffic is completely normal—"everyday frustration"—a more intense, chronic reaction is taking a significant toll on mental and physical health. This pervasive issue, often manifesting as road rage or chronic urban stress, is more than just a bad mood; it's a full-body stress reaction that, over time, can lead to serious health risks. This Anger Awareness Week, mental health experts delve into the clinical, physiological, environmental, and digital roots of urban rage, and offer actionable strategies to reclaim your calm. Understanding the clinical shift: From frustration to rageMehezabin Dordi, clinical psychologist at Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital (Mumbai) clearly delineates the clinical difference between normal frustration and genuine road rage. “Most of us sigh, mutter under our breath, or feel our shoulders tighten and then we move on. That’s just everyday frustration,” she explains. Road rage, however, is fundamentally different. It shows up as:1. Anger that feels too intense for the situation.2. A sense of being “hijacked” by emotion.3. Behaviours that feel unsafe like shouting, chasing, honking aggressively.4. Struggling to calm down even long after the trigger has passed. According to Dordi, when someone notices that these reactions happen often, feel out of control, or spill over into the rest of their life, that’s usually when a psychologist should step in. It may point to something deeper, like chronic stress, poor emotional regulation, or even a condition such as intermittent explosive disorder. The crucial rule of thumb is: If your anger feels bigger than the moment, it’s worth getting help. Physiological impact: The full-body stress reaction“Road rage isn’t ‘just anger’, it’s a full-body stress reaction. The moment something feels threatening on the road, the brain hits the panic button. The amygdala fires, adrenaline surges, the heart races, breathing gets faster, and cortisol floods your system. Your body thinks you're in danger even though you’re actually stuck in traffic,” shares Dordi.The long-term health risks of repeated exposure to this stress response are significant. Dordi notes that over time, repeated bursts of this reaction can take a real toll, leading to:1. Higher blood pressure.2. Increased risk of heart problems.3. Sleep issues.4. Constant fatigue or irritability.5. Lowered immunity. “It’s like running a marathon on the inside every time someone cuts you off. Your body isn’t designed to stay in “fight-or-flight mode” during daily commutes and yet that’s exactly what happens for many people living with chronic urban stress,” she concludes. Co-morbidity: Chronic anger rarely exists in a vacuumFrequent road rage can sometimes be a sign that something else is going on emotionally. Dordi highlights how often chronic anger issues are linked to underlying mental health conditions:1. People with anxiety often feel on edge, so a small traffic error can feel like a real threat.2. Depression can show up as irritability, making anger quicker to surface.3. Individuals with trauma histories or PTSD may react strongly to situations that feel unpredictable or out of their control. She also mentions that some people use substances to cope with stress, and that lowers impulse control even further. “While not everyone with anger issues has a diagnosable mental health condition, chronic anger rarely exists in a vacuum. When someone starts noticing that they’re more reactive, more easily triggered, or less patient than before, it’s often a sign that their emotional reserves are running low,” Dordi emphasises. How traffic anger rewires the brain“Without realising it, our mood in cities like this is often influenced by our commutes. In traffic, many people feel irritation and carry it into meetings, conversations, and even their homes. This happens because the repeated anger of being ‘blocked’ becomes a learned emotional response,” explains Bhavya Shah, consultant psychologist at Saifee Hospital, Mumbai. “Every time we get stuck in a traffic jam and feel annoyed, our brain creates a strong neural pathway. Over time, this pattern turns into a habit. The amygdala, the part of the brain that handles quick emotional reactions, activates even before we fully grasp the situation. Meanwhile, the rational prefrontal cortex takes a backseat, making it harder to calm ourselves at that moment,” she explains. When asked for a way to break this harmful habit, she says, “The solution is to create new responses that compete with the old ones. When you practice a calmer response—like taking deep breaths as your car stops, relaxing your shoulders, or changing the radio station to distract from the traffic—you signal to your brain that there is no real threat. With regular practice, most people notice real changes in about 4 to 8 weeks, which is often how long it takes to rewire emotional habits.” The lasting effect of attention residueThe stress from driving doesn’t go away as soon as your car stops or you get off the bus. Shah introduces the concept of attention residue to shed light on this lingering mental load. “After a near miss, a clash with another driver, or just from being in a noisy environment, the brain keeps replaying the event. This means your focus stays partially stuck on that past experience. This lingering mental load weakens working memory and slows down full attention, even on simple tasks. Many people say that the first 20 to 45 minutes after they get home or to work can feel muddled or tense, which is what attention residue looks like in practice.” Shah suggests designing a healthier transition. “Following simple rituals can help the brain shift between different states. A few minutes of deep breathing before starting the workday, stepping outside for fresh air, or listening to something calming as you finish your commute can help. These mini resets clear away residue, reduce emotional carryover, and prepare you for a more balanced day,” she says. Environmental and digital triggers: The micro-stressors that break the camel's back Hyper-local and environmental factors: The cumulative effectWe know major events cause stress, but the cumulative effect of constant, low-level irritants (micro-stressors like poorly designed queues, repetitive minor honking, lack of timely information) is equally corrosive. Dr. Ajit Dandekar, head of mental health (psychology and psychiatry) at Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital in Mumbai observes, “Long-term exposure to such irritants may cause annoyance, sleep problems, tiredness, headaches and generally higher stress levels. Individuals who develop ongoing irritation with honking, engine sounds or loud neighbours can potentially experience some psychological problems.” The core issue is that the brain has a limited tolerance level. “Every badly managed queue, loud neighbour or heavy traffic laden with continuous honking makes one more likely to snap, even though such an incident, in isolation may be a minor one. Especially those who live with anxiety or depression may experience the effects even strongly and the link between irritants and poor mental health becomes stronger,” he explains. Dandekar warns, “Don’t ignore these minor irritants that make you ‘a bit grumpy’ repeatedly because, over a period of time, they lower the anger threshold, especially in densely packed metropolitans such as Mumbai where there are little or no quiet places or time to recover.” Environmental triggers: Beyond the obviousBesides the obvious (traffic, noise), subtle environmental factors contribute significantly to increased irritability and rage. Dandekar poses, “Our expectations of the world around us and the real time overall quality and design of our surroundings can strongly influence the stress levels of an individual.” He notes studies have proved that greener streets with proper pedestrians can offer much higher levels of relaxation as compared to car-dominated, noisy and polluted urban streets. This is why each one of us craves holidays to much quieter, greener and natural spaces after every two to three months, to reset our stress levels. The subtle environmental factors he sees contributing to irritability or the build-up of rage are:1. Air quality: Most major irritant is poor air quality, laden with vehicular or industrial fumes and dust. Several people develop visible signs of discomfort, and their bodies show more signs of stress with higher levels of air pollution.2. Lack of green space: Trees, plants and open sky have a major ‘restorative’ effect on people, helping their brain to recover from stress. On the contrary, concrete jungles with no tree in sight and traffic can undo the sense of restoration.3. Ambient environment: Noise combined with heat, overcrowding, stench, and visual clutter are major ambient stress factors.4. Badly designed public spaces: Pedestrians hijacked by street vendors or used as parking spaces, lack of open spaces, confusing crossings, densely stacked buildings with little space for manoeuvring are some of the many issues associated with higher stress. Digital stressors: Instant gratification vs. real-world delayThe constant expectation of instant gratification, driven by the digital world, fuels anger when faced with real-world delays. “People living all their life in a fast-paced metropolitan like Mumbai are used to instant responses. We digitally track our cabs, food and even messages all the time and have conditioned our brains to expect speed and predictability. Annoyance, irritability and rage build up in some of us when situations become unpredictable, uncontrollable and repetitive,” explains Dandekar. Digital screens have taught people to expect instant feedback but the real world is slow and thus becomes stressful. “Especially those exposed to constant urban stressors like noise, pollution or overcrowding with limited or no recovery time, such extra frustration can quickly tip into road rage: shouting, abusing, aggressive honking or at times even a physical altercation. We live in environments surrounded by smartphones and digital screens that keep triggering our stress systems. A factor of unpredictability, and loss of control such as a sudden horn or a buffering app can amplify anger.” Seven one-minute strategies for reclaiming controlTo combat the physiological and neurological cascade of urban stress, the experts recommend building practical, immediate strategies into the daily routine. Dandekar shares seven practical strategies to follow when you feel irritated or experience the rage building: 1. Create a ‘quiet zone.’ Cut the noise. Roll up the window, switch to softer music or simply use earplugs. Such, even smaller reduction in honking and engine sound can help the nervous system settle.2. Use a de-stressor: Studies have shown that a green line of trees can potentially reduce stress. Spot a tree, small garden, even a potted plant, spend a minute just looking at it. Use this as a ‘restorative break’ to help your brain shift out of fight-mode.3. Breath: Fastest way to calm down is to slow your breathing. Inhale through your nose, count till 4, exhale gently while counting till 6, and repeat 6–8 times.4. Reset your body: Use the sudden stoppage in your activity to pause and move your body within your space. Roll the shoulders, stretch the neck, unclench the jaw and loosen your grip from the steering wheel. This helps to release the pent-up energy into movement instead of aggression.5. Identify the feeling, not the people: When you are surrounded with noise and overcrowding avoid blaming the whole environment and instead try to silently label your feeling. Naming the emotion help the brain to regain control and reduces the urge to react impulsively.6. The glass half full: Deliberately reframe an irritating situation into an ordinary one. Tune into your favourite song when stuck in a traffic jam, observe people and their quirks when stuck in a queue, don’t deny the problem but don’t let it own you emotionally.7. Planning self-care: Plan your routine in a way that it offers you a realistic and healthy ‘reset,’ for later. A short walk in the park after dinner, a quiet cup of tea without screens or going to bed ten minutes early for a longer peaceful sleep. Plan a recovery point to reduce the sense of helplessness and calm down the chronic rage. By understanding the distinct clinical markers of road rage, recognising the physiological and neurological damage caused by chronic stress, and implementing these actionable, one-minute resets, individuals can begin the essential process of healing their brains and reclaiming their emotional well-being amidst the chaos of urban life.
06 December,2025 03:51 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalADVERTISEMENT
