For decades, endometriosis has been shrouded in a culture of endurance in India. As per Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), endometriosis is affecting approximately four crore women across the country. This chronic condition occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows in places it doesn’t belong—like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or even the bowels. According to a recent ICMR study, patients in India have faced an agonising wait of six to nine years for a formal diagnosis. However, 2026 marks a pivotal shift. With updated global guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the medical community is finally moving away from medical dismissal toward rapid, non-invasive intervention. Indian gynaecologists delve into non-invasive saliva-based testing, 7-D framework, presumptive diagnosis and advanced ultrasound mapping, allowing for molecular-level detection and immediate treatment that can facilitate a faster diagnosis and offer an alternative to laparoscopic surgery. The Saliva Test: A diagnostic paradigm shift The gold standard for diagnosis has long been laparoscopy—a surgical procedure where a camera is inserted into the abdomen. Because surgery is intimidating and expensive, many women delay it for years. Dr. Anshumala Shukla Kulkarni, head, minimally invasive gynaecology, gynaecology laparoscopic and robotic surgery at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, highlights the 2026 breakthrough: the saliva-based diagnostic test.How it works 1. miRNA as a messenger: Micro-RNAs (miRNAs) are small molecules that act like ‘on/off switches’ for our genes. In patients with endometriosis, the body’s inflammatory response creates a unique pattern among 190 specific miRNAs.2. Gene array technology: The test uses a multi-sequence array to scan your saliva for this specific signature. Because these markers appear in the bloodstream and saliva long before a lesion is large enough to be seen on a scan, it catches the disease in its infancy. The test is a major leap because it identifies the disease at a molecular level rather than waiting for physical growth. Accuracy According to studies published in NEJM Evidence, the saliva based Ziwig Endotest¬¬, which is available in India, has shown high accuracy for detecting endometriosis. Results indicate a diagnostic accuracy of approximately 96.6 per cent, with 97.3 per cent sensitivity and 94.1 per cent specificity. This means it is excellent at ruling in the disease for patients who have previously been told their scans are clear. The early-stage advantage The most significant hurdle in diagnostic delay is that early-stage endometriosis is often not visible on traditional scans.1. Beyond imaging: Traditional ultrasounds only see endometriomas or deep nodules. They often miss superficial peritoneal endometriosis—which can be just as painful but is too flat for a standard probe to detect.2. Avoiding negative surgery: Historically, many women underwent diagnostic laparoscopy only for the surgeon to find nothing because the lesions were too small. As Kulkarni notes, the saliva test allows for a diagnosis without the risk of a negative (unnecessary) surgery.3. Halting progression: By identifying the disease early, doctors can start empiric therapy (hormonal management) to stop these microscopic cells from growing into the dense, scarring adhesions that cause organ damage and infertility. It allows women to get an answer before the disease causes visible physical scarring. A crucial distinction: Diagnosis versus cure While the saliva test is a revolutionary diagnostic tool, Kulkarni provides an essential medical reality check regarding treatment, "Diagnosing endometriosis using a salivary test is good for detecting early cases, but it doesn't mean these patients are cured by medication alone.” Hormonal treatments (like GnRH antagonists or progesterone) are not a cure. "They only suppress the lesion and give symptom relief. They manage the pain, but they do not necessarily change the underlying disease status,” she explains. Redefining ‘normal’ pain: The 7 Ds framework A major barrier to diagnosis is the cultural myth that period pain is normal. Dr. Uddhavraj Dudhedia, director and head (chief), advanced robotic gynaecology, endometriosis, neuro gynaecology, Indo-Swedish uterine transplant program and uro-gynaecology at Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital in Mumbai, emphasises that 2026 protocols now use a structured 7 Ds framework to help patients and physicians identify red flags:1. Dysmenorrhea: Severe period pain that doesn't get better with rest or standard over-the-counter painkillers.2. Dyspareunia: Deep, sharp pain during or after sexual intercourse.3. Dysuria: Pain or a burning sensation while urinating during your period.4. Dyschezia: Painful bowel movements or lightning pains in the rectum during menstruation.5. Dysfunctional bleeding: Heavy, irregular, or unpredictable periods.6. Deep pelvic pain: A heavy, dragging sensation in the pelvis that persists even when you aren't on your period.7. Difficulty conceiving: Infertility after six months of trying (for those over 35) or one year (for those under 35). The presumptive approach: Treatment without surgery In a radical departure from the past, the 2026 WHO and ACOG guidelines now support a presumptive clinical diagnosis. As Kulkarni explains, “If a patient’s symptoms and medical history align with the new checklists, the use of medication helps to stop the disease from progressing without the need for immediate surgery.”1. Empiric therapy: Clinicians can now initiate treatments like GnRH antagonists or progesterones. According to Dr. Kulkarni, while these suppress the lesions and provide symptom relief, they allow the patient to avoid negative laparoscopic surgery.2. The goal: The focus has shifted from finding the lesion to improving the patient’s quality of life. Dr Dudhedia notes that tools like the EHP-30 (Endometriosis Health Profile) quantify how the disease disrupts work or school, providing the ‘good practice point’ needed to justify immediate therapy. Why standard ultrasounds often fail Many women are told everything looks normal after a routine ultrasound, yet they remain in excruciating pain. Dr Dudhedia says, “Standard scans often miss superficial endometriosis or deep nodules hidden behind the uterus.” The 2026 solution: Endometriosis Mapping (IDEA Protocol) Instead of a basic scan, patients should request Endometriosis Mapping via Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVUS). “This is a specialised, multi-planar sweep of the pelvic compartments. It is often preferred over MRI because it is dynamic—the doctor can move the probe to see if organs are stuck together (adhesions) in real-time,” he explains. The cost of delay: Why early detection matters The six to nine year diagnostic lag in India isn't just about pain. it’s about long-term health. Kulkarni warns of several hidden costs of waiting:1. Central sensitisation: Over years of untreated pain, the brain and spinal cord become hypersensitive. Eventually, even a light touch can feel painful because the nervous system is stuck in a high-alert state.2. Organ damage: Untreated endometriosis can cause the fallopian tubes to block or stuck ovaries, making natural pregnancy or even IVF significantly more difficult.3. The endo belly: This isn't just bloating, it’s an inflammatory response. The body sends fluid and immune cells to the abdomen to fight the misplaced tissue, causing a distended stomach that mimics irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). New tools help doctors distinguish between digestive issues and endometriosis. A patient’s guide to overcoming medical dismissal and navigating endometriosis in 2026If you suspect you have endometriosis, or if you have been told your pain is normal, Kulkarni’s advice is clear, “Medical gaslighting is real for endometriosis patients. Be your own advocate.” These are the specific questions and terms based on the 2026 ACOG and WHO guidelines to ensure you receive the most advanced care available. The red flag checklist for your doctor When describing your symptoms to a general physician or gynaecologist, avoid using general terms like bad cramps. Instead, use these 7 Ds and specific clinical indicators to trigger a faster referral:1. Non-responsive to NSAIDs: Tell your doctor if standard painkillers (like Ibuprofen or mefenamic acid) do not allow you to function.2. Adolescent warnings: Parents should look for red flags in teens, such as missing school every month or being unable to use a tampon due to pain. Early intervention in the teenage years can prevent Stage IV disease in adulthood.3. Quality of life disruption: Mention if you are missing school, work, or social events. The EHP-30 tool is now a standard metric for justifying immediate testing.4. Cyclical gastrointestinal or urinary symptoms: If you have diarrhoea, constipation, or pain during urination only during your period, this points to endometriosis rather than IBS.5. Shoulder tip pain: Mention if you feel a sharp pain in your right shoulder during your period; this is a key sign of diaphragmatic endometriosis. Questions to ask your gynaecologist To ensure you are being treated under the most current protocols, as outlined by Dr Kulkarni and Dr Dudhedia, ask the following:1. Regarding the saliva test: Am I a candidate for the new saliva-based diagnostic test to avoid an initial diagnostic laparoscopy?2. Regarding ultrasound: Can we perform an endometriosis mapping or deep endometriosis protocol rather than a standard pelvic scan?3. Regarding surgery: If we proceed with surgery, are you excision-ready? Will you remove the lesions during the same procedure if they are found?4. Regarding presumptive diagnosis: Based on my 7 Ds symptoms and history, can we begin empiric therapy now to stop the disease from progressing?
31 March,2026 10:22 AM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalUnion Minister Jitendra Singh on Sunday shed light on abdominal or central obesity as a greater risk factor compared to overall obesity, particularly in the Indian context, where even lean and thin-looking individuals often carry significant visceral fat. The minister stated that while overall obesity is rising among both men and women, the prevalence of abdominal obesity remains disproportionately high and acts as an independent determinant of cardiometabolic risk. "The presence of visceral fat around the abdomen, even without generalised obesity, has significant clinical implications and requires early detection and targeted intervention," Singh said during the launch of a book titled 'Advances in Obesity and Lipid Management in CVD'. The minister also highlighted the increasing incidence of metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes and cardiac events, among younger populations, reflecting changing lifestyle patterns, dietary habits, and reduced physical activity. Referring to projections indicating a sharp rise in obesity prevalence in India by 2050, Singh also called for strengthened awareness, early screening, and preventive healthcare measures to mitigate long-term health and economic risks. 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 March,2026 04:05 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIAn analysis of previously published studies has found that de-prescribing preventive medications among old, frail adults did not increase the risk of death, hospitalisation, or major heart-related events. Findings published in the journal BioMed Central (BMC) Geriatrics also suggest that de-prescribing was not related with an increased risk of falls -- a leading cause of disability among older adults -- fractures or a reduced quality of life. Researchers, including those from the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute for Research in Bacterial Infections, Kolkata, and Sweden's Karolinska Institutet, added however that evidence certainty -- a measure of confidence that the true effect of de-prescribing is close to one estimated from research -- was low and more studies are required. Frail, older adults having a limited life expectancy are commonly prescribed long-term preventive medications and concurrent multiple medications -- "polypharmacy" -- despite uncertain benefits and potential risks, the team said. They analysed 15 studies, involving more than 33,000 participants and taken from databases including the 'PubMed' and 'Web of Science'. The analysis produced evidence on the effect of de-prescribing preventive medications, such as antihypertensives, statins and antidiabetics, compared to continuing clinical, physiological, safety, and patient-centred outcomes among older adults with advanced frailty, dementia, or limited life expectancy. "De-prescribing preventive medications in frail or palliative older adults was not associated with worse outcomes; however, evidence certainty was very low, and further studies are needed," the authors wrote. "From 10,397 records, 15 studies were included. Overall, de-prescribing was not associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality, hospitalisation, or MACE (major adverse cardiovascular event) (certainty: very low GRADE)," they said. "De-prescribing was also not associated with increased risks of fracture, fall, or deterioration of quality of life, but with slightly increased systolic blood pressure (deprescribing antihypertensives)," they said.
27 March,2026 03:34 PM IST | New Delhi | PTITuberculosis, or TB as it is popularly known, is an infectious disease commonly affecting the lungs, but it also affects other parts of the body, including the brain, intestines, bones, and even the reproductive organs. Experts warn that genital tuberculosis is a common cause of infertility, more commonly in women. With India carrying one of the highest TB burdens in the world, doctors are increasingly highlighting the need for early detection and timely treatment to prevent long-term complications such as infertility. Many people are unaware that TB bacteria can spread from the lungs to other organs through the bloodstream. When it affects the reproductive system, it is known as genital TB. Because the symptoms may be mild or unclear, the condition often remains undiagnosed until couples face difficulty in conceiving. Experts, therefore, advise individuals experiencing fertility issues to consult a fertility specialist or doctor for proper evaluation. Tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. While pulmonary TB affects the lungs, extrapulmonary TB can affect organs such as the lymph nodes, bones, brain, intestines, and reproductive organs. Common symptoms of TB may include persistent cough, fever, night sweats, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. However, in genital TB, symptoms may be subtle or absent, making diagnosis more challenging. Dr. Avantika Vaze, who is a fertility specialist at Nova IVF Fertility in Vashi, explains, "Genital tuberculosis can have a huge impact on fertility if not diagnosed early. In women, the infection can damage the fallopian tubes, uterus, and endometrium, leading to blocked tubes, irregular menstrual cycles, scanty menstrual flow, and difficulty in implantation of the embryo. In men, TB may affect the testes, epididymis, or prostate gland, which can lead to reduced sperm count, blockage in the sperm transport pathway, or poor sperm quality. Because symptoms are often silent, many patients only discover the problem when they seek help for infertility." Dr Vaze added, “Tuberculosis is treatable if diagnosed in time. Anti-tuberculosis medications can help eliminate the infection and prevent further damage to the reproductive organs. In some cases where fertility has been affected, assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF or ICSI may help couples achieve pregnancy. Awareness, timely diagnosis, and proper medical care are key to protecting fertility and improving reproductive outcomes.” Dr Rita Modi, who is the senior consultant fertility health specialist at Motherhood Fertility & IVF in the city, adds, “Many couples are shocked to learn that tuberculosis can silently affect their chances of becoming parents. In women, genital TB can damage the fallopian tubes, cause blockage, and affect the lining of the uterus, making it difficult for pregnancy to occur. In men, the infection may affect the testes or epididymis, leading to reduced sperm count or blockage in the sperm pathway. These complications can deeply affect a couple emotionally, especially when they are unaware of the underlying cause. The good news is that with early diagnosis and proper treatment, many of these problems can be managed, giving couples hope and a chance to achieve parenthood.” Experts stress that individuals with a history of TB, persistent pelvic pain, unexplained infertility, or reproductive health concerns should seek medical advice promptly. Early action can help prevent complications and improve the chances of successful treatment and conception. Dr Kekin Gala, a consultant in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Apollo Spectra Hospital, further highlights, “Genital TB is often missed, but it is an important cause of infertility, especially in women who have irregular periods, long-term pelvic pain, or difficulty in getting pregnant. This infection can damage the fallopian tubes, uterus, and nearby organs, making it difficult to conceive naturally. Many women ignore early symptoms like irregular periods, lower abdominal pain, weakness, or sudden weight loss. These signs may seem small, but they can become serious if not treated in time. The good news is that if TB is detected early and proper treatment is taken, the damage can be controlled and fertility can be protected. It is very important to spread awareness and encourage timely testing. Women should not delay visiting a doctor if they have fertility problems or unusual symptoms. Early diagnosis, correct treatment, and regular follow-up can help avoid serious complications and increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy."
26 March,2026 11:21 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAmid serious concerns over recent introduction of multiple generic variants of GLP-1 based weight loss drugs in the Indian market, the government on Tuesday, March 24, said it has intensified regulatory surveillance against the drug’s unauthorised sale and promotion. In order to ensure ethical pharmaceutical practices in the supply chain of Weight Loss Drug (GLP-1), the Drugs Controller of India has intensified its regulatory surveillance, according to Health Ministry. Concerns have emerged regarding their on-demand availability through retail pharmacies, online platforms, wholesalers, and wellness clinics. These drugs, when used without proper medical supervision, may lead to serious adverse effects and related health risks. “Regulatory surveillance will continue to be intensified in the coming weeks and non-compliances will be dealt strictly with actions including cancellation of licenses, penalties, and prosecution under applicable laws,” said the government. The drugs controller, in collaboration with state regulators, has initiated a series of targeted actions to curb possible malpractices across the pharmaceutical supply chain and prevent unauthorised sales and use. “On March 10, 2026, a comprehensive advisory was issued to all manufacturers, explicitly prohibiting surrogate advertisements and any form of indirect promotion that could mislead consumers or encourage off-label usage,” according to a ministry statement. In the recent weeks, enforcement activities were significantly scaled up. Audits and inspections were conducted at 49 entities, including online pharmacy warehouses, drug wholesalers, retailers and wellness and slimming clinics. These inspections spanned multiple regions across the country and focused on identifying violations related to unauthorised sale, improper prescription practices, and misleading marketing. Further, notices have also been sent to defaulting entities. The regulator emphasises that patient safety remains paramount. The misuse of weight loss drugs without clinical oversight can lead to severe health complications. Citizens are advised to use such medications only under the guidance of qualified medical practitioners. The drug has been approved in India with condition of prescription by endocrinologists and internal medicine specialist and for some indications by cardiologists only. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
24 March,2026 11:52 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSA new type of blood test that analyses the folding of amino acids rather than their amounts may detect earliest biological signs of Alzheimer's disease, according to a study. Analysis of blood plasma samples from over 500 individuals show that structural differences in three proteins, one involved in immune signalling, another in protein folding, and a third that transports fats in bloodstream -- are strongly linked to Alzheimer's status, according to the findings published in the Nature Aging journal. Researchers, including those at The Scripps Research Institute, US, said structural differences of plasma proteins helped accurately distinguish cognitively normal individuals, from those with Alzheimer's and mild cognitive impairment -- the preceding stage. The method could eventually allow early diagnosis and treatment, they said. Alzheimer's disease is currently diagnosed by measuring amyloid plaques and tau tangles, formed due to accumulation of amyloid and tau proteins in one's brain -- in blood or spinal fluid. However, the neurodegenerative condition is increasingly thought to involve a broader failure of proteostasis, a system responsible for keeping proteins properly folded and removing damaged ones, researchers said. The system is said to become less effective with ageing, because of which proteins are more likely to fold incorrectly during formation or restructuring, they said. "Many neurodegenerative diseases are driven by changes in protein structure. The question was, are there structural changes in specific proteins that might be useful as predictive markers?" senior author John Yates, a professor at The Scripps Research Institute, said. The researchers proposed that if proteostasis is disrupted in the brain, similar structural changes might also appear in proteins circulating in blood. Plasma samples from the participants were divided into three groups -- cognitively normal adults, individuals with mild cognitive impairment and patients diagnosed with Alzheimer's. The analysis determined how exposed or buried certain specific areas were in three-dimensional amino acid chain, indicating changes to their structure. Machine learning, a form of artificial intelligence, was used to identify patterns connected to disease stage. As Alzheimer's disease advanced, specific blood proteins became less structurally "open", with structural changes of three showing the strongest association with disease. The proteins were C1QA, involved in immune signalling, clusterin, involved in protein folding and amyloid removal, and apolipoprotein B, which transports fats in the bloodstream and contributes to blood vessel health. The structural changes proved to be more informative for identifying disease stage than simply measuring protein concentrations, researchers said. "This multi-marker panel based on plasma protein structural alterations represents a promising diagnostic approach that may enhance early AD (Alzheimer's disease) detection and provide insights for clinical trials, improving therapeutic outcomes," the authors wrote. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
23 March,2026 04:58 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIChanges to one's hippocampus, the brain's memory centre, in response to prolonged pain could be an important factor for why some people develop depression in chronic pain, while others do not, according to a study. "Our findings suggest that the hippocampus acts as a control centre that helps the brain regulate emotional responses to long-term pain. Depression is not inevitable -- it depends on how this system responds over time," co-lead author Jianfeng Feng, professor of computer science at the UK's University of Warwick, said. The study, published in the journal Science, analysed brain scans from population cohorts, including data from the UK Biobank, and a rodent model. People living with chronic pain but without depression tended to show a slightly larger volume of and an increased activity in the hippocampus. The changes were accompanied by an improved performance in learning and memory tasks, suggesting that the brain may initially mount a compensatory response to persistent pain, the researchers said. However, individuals experiencing both chronic pain and depression showed a reduced volume of the hippocampus, disrupted activity, and poorer cognitive performance. Analyses of data collected over long-term indicated that the changes developed progressively over time. "The fact that these changes emerge gradually suggests they are driven by the experience of prolonged pain itself. This isn't simply a pre-existing vulnerability; it's something the brain is doing in response to ongoing pain," Feng said. The authors wrote, "Integrating human neuroimaging from the UK Biobank with a rodent model, we uncovered biphasic hippocampal remodelling." "Hippocampal volume increased during early pain stages, with paradoxical cognitive improvements, but declined with comorbid depression," they said. Conducting parallel studies in animal models with chronic pain, the researchers found that an increased sensitivity to pain appeared first, followed by anxiety-like behaviour, and later by depression-like symptoms. Structure and activity of the hippocampus gradually changed, showing how a prolonged pain can reshape brain circuits involved in emotional regulation, they said. A key regulatory hub was found to be located in a sub-region of the hippocampus, known as the 'dentate gyrus' -- one of the few areas of an adult brain where new neurons continue to form. Newly generated neurons in the dentate gyrus became highly active early in the course of chronic pain, suggesting the brain initially attempts to adapt to ongoing stress, the researchers said. However, over time, immune cells in the brain called microglia became abnormally activated, with a disrupted communication between neurons and microglia marking a tipping point from adaptive processes to dysfunctional signalling, they said. Suppressing the abnormal activity in the microglia was seen to improve depression-like behaviours, while overall brain function remained stable. "What this shows is that the brain is not simply overwhelmed by chronic pain. It actively tries to regulate emotional wellbeing. When that regulatory system remains balanced, people can stay resilient," Feng said. "When it becomes disrupted, particularly by inflammation in the hippocampus, depression can emerge. Understanding this process opens new possibilities for early intervention," the author said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
23 March,2026 12:00 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIPeople with type 1 diabetes have a higher risk of developing dementia, according to a study. Type 2 diabetes is also linked to an increased risk of dementia compared to those without diabetes. However, the findings show only an association and do not prove that diabetes causes dementia. Type 1 diabetes is relatively rare, accounting for about 5 per cent of all diabetes cases. "As advances in medical care have extended the lives of people with type 1 diabetes, it's becoming increasingly important to understand the relation of type 1 diabetes to the risk of dementia," said study author Jennifer Weuve, MPH, ScD, of Boston University. "We have known that type 2 diabetes is linked to an increased risk of dementia, but this new research suggests that, unfortunately, the association may be even stronger for those with type 1 diabetes." The study involved 283,772 people with an average age of 64. Of those, 5,442 had type 1 diabetes, and 51,511 had type 2 diabetes. The participants were followed for an average of 2.4 years. During that time, 2,348 people developed dementia, including 144 of the people with type 1 diabetes, or 2.6 per cent; 942 of the people with type 2 diabetes, or 1.8 per cent; and 1,262 of the 226,819 people who did not have diabetes, or 0.6 per cent. The study was published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. After accounting for factors such as age and education level, the researchers estimated that people with type 1 diabetes were nearly three times as likely to develop dementia as people without diabetes. People with type 2 diabetes were twice as likely to develop dementia as people without diabetes. Weuve added that in this study, an estimated 65 per cent of dementia cases among people with type 1 diabetes could be attributed to the condition itself. "Type 1 diabetes is not common, so this condition accounts for a small fraction of all dementia cases. But for the growing number of people with type 1 diabetes who are over 65 years old, these findings underscore the urgency of understanding the ways in which type 1 diabetes influences dementia risk and how we can prevent or delay it," Weuve said. A limitation of the study is that diabetes and dementia were identified using electronic health records and survey data, which may not capture every diagnosis. A neurologist is a doctor who specialises in the diagnosis, care and treatment of brain, spinal cord and nervous system diseases such as Alzheimer's, stroke, concussion, epilepsy, Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, headache and migraine. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
23 March,2026 10:59 AM IST | Minnesota | ANIThe AIIMS-Delhi is studying links between exposure to air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter 2.5, and the risk of developing lung cancer. The AIRCARE study, which the institution claimed is the first of its kind, is being led by Dr Abhishek Shankar, Assistant Professor, Radiation Oncology, AIIMS. Dr Shankar said that as air pollution continues to be an increasingly significant public health concern, there is a need for research to inform policy and disease management. He said India is home to some of the most polluted cities in the world, and there is an urgent need to scientifically look at the effects of pollution on people's health. "Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers among males in India, and there is a high number of non-smoking lung cancers among females and young adults," Dr Shankar stated. Air pollution has emerged as a contributing factor to lung cancer, but more evidence is needed on this issue from India, he said. "It is deeply concerning that lung cancer, once assumed to be a disease mostly associated with people who smoke tobacco, is now seeing a rapid increase in incidence amongst people who do not smoke," Dr Shankar said. The AIRCARE study will study 1,615 lung cancer cases with 1,615 controls from family members across the Delhi-NCR. The study is a complex undertaking involving both clinical and non-clinical components, Dr Shankar said. One aspect of the study will be to employ both a cohort and case-control design to track the effects of chronic PM 2.5 exposure on lung cancer across demographics and socio-economic groups, he said. Another aspect of the study is to search for a unique genetic signature in the Indian population being exposed to air pollution. Simply put, the study will attempt to isolate an Indian population-specific genetic imprint to see whether a particular early genetic event in response to air pollution exposure develops into lung cancer later in life, Dr Shankar said. With the data, the researchers will develop a risk-based screening model based on both clinical and molecular components specific to the Indian population and exposure levels. It will also identify the susceptible population among the cohort who are more at risk of developing lung cancer, he said. "Lung cancer continues to be the second most frequent cancer in males in India and the fourth most common type for both sexes. There is an urgent need to implement policy and management strategies to tackle this disease and mitigate further loss of life," Dr Shankar 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.
20 March,2026 11:57 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIBetween the exhausting traffic and corporate hustle of Indian metropolitan cities, stress has become the default setting for the Indian urbanite. We have long been conditioned to believe that happiness is a distant destination—a reward found only during a Himalayan trek or a Goan sabbatical. However, as people mark the International Day of Happiness, observed on March 20 every year, a new perspective is emerging: happiness isn't just an internal state, it is a biological negotiation with our environment. To move beyond surface-level self-care, mid-day spoke to mental health experts Rima Bhandekar, psychologist and head of Mpower toll-free mental health helpline, and Mehezabin Dordi, clinical psychologist at Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital. Together, they share an urban zen blueprint—a toolkit of somatic release, digital boundaries, and micro-joys designed to rewire the city-dweller’s nervous system for lasting, holistic well-being. The geography of joy: Navigating neuro-urbanism People often view happiness through a philosophical lens, but neuro-urbanism suggests our biology is under constant siege by our surroundings. In the rapid urbanisation of India, the friction of the city—constant noise, the lack of walkable green spaces, and extreme population density—physically reshapes our brain. The amygdala on high alert The brain’s threat detector, the amygdala, is built to scan for danger. In a serene environment, it remains dormant. However, Rima Bhandekar explains that in most Indian cities, the day begins with an assault of noise, construction, and unpredictability. "The amygdala stays mildly switched on. Not in full panic mode, but in a 'mild alert' mode. Over time, that low-level alertness becomes exhausting, leading to mental tiredness," Bhandekar notes. This explains why urbanites often feel unusually irritable or struggle to sleep even on days when nothing major happened. According to the World Health Organization’s 2022 World Mental Health Report, this chronic stress exposure is a key contributor to the rising tide of anxiety and depression in rapidly urbanising societies. Building a neural sanctuary To counter this, your home must become a reset space, regardless of its size. Bhandekar suggests practical buffers to signal safety to the brain:1. Warm lighting: Switch to amber or warm tones at night to avoid the high-alert stimulus of harsh white light.2. Predictable rituals: Evening tea at the same time every day provides the brain with the certainty it craves amidst city chaos.3. Clutter-free corners: Even a single small plant or a clean corner, acts as a visual pause button for a hyper-stimulated mind. From collective stress to collective joy India is a high-context, communal society. While we often suffer from collective stress—absorbing the frustration of a packed local train or a crowded market—we also possess a unique biological advantage: the ability to experience collective joy. "When people come together in rhythm and purpose, the body's calming system is triggered. Think of the neighbourhood park at 6 pm: familiar faces, slow conversations, and the sound of children playing. Or a local festival where people move and sing in unison. Something shifts neurologically. There is a sense of belonging that acts as a natural antidepressant. By engaging in these meaningful communal spaces, we trigger positive neurotransmitters that lift the mood and improve daily motivation,” explains Bhandekar. The dopamine detox in a high-stimulus city The modern city is a dopamine loop of notifications, work pings, and flashing billboards. We have become so conditioned to this constant stimulation that quietness and stillness actually feel uncomfortable. This isn't a lack of discipline, it is environmental conditioning. "A dopamine detox is not about abandoning technology or moving to the mountains. It is about creating spaces," Bhandekar clarifies. 1. High-value boredom: When we allow the mind to wander without digital input, creativity improves and emotional clarity returns. The brain integrates experiences instead of just reacting to them.2. Single-tasking: Accomplish one thing at a time without jumping between browser tabs.3. The unplugged commute: Take one trip to work looking only at the sky, buildings, and people. The discomfort you feel is simply your brain adjusting to a healthier baseline. Fixing 'chrono-disruption' and the internal clock Urban life may operate 24/7, but your biology does not. Dordi highlights the impact of Chrono-disruption, “It is the disturbance of our internal biological clock due to light pollution and late-night digital work. This disruption directly compromises our mood, cognitive stability, and stress tolerance, making us more susceptible to irritability and lower life satisfaction.” To fix your internal clock, Dordi recommends three non-negotiable habits: 1. Morning light exposure: Get natural sunlight within 20 to 30 minutes of waking. This synchronises the circadian rhythm, telling the brain the day has officially begun. 2. The digital sunset (60 to 90 minutes before bed): Blue light suppresses melatonin, but the cognitive stimulation also keeps the nervous system in alert mode. Set a hard boundary for emails and OTT platforms. 3. Fixed wake-up time: Consistency is more important than chasing perfect sleep duration. A regular wake-up time, even on weekends, builds nervous system safety through predictability. Somatic awareness: Releasing neck-down stress Most urban professionals are disconnected from their bodies, operating entirely from the neck up. However, stress is stored physically as muscular tension and breathing patterns. According to Dordi, the jaw clenches from cognitive overload, the shoulders carry the burden of responsibility, and the gut mirrors our anxiety. She outlines a simple 3-minute body scan that can aid in releasing stress: The 3-minute body scan protocol Step 1: Awareness (60 seconds): Stop. Sit up straight. Notice if your jaw is clenched or your shoulders are elevated. The act of noticing alone reduces amygdala activation. Step 2: Micro-release (90 seconds): Part your teeth to relax the jaw. Inhale and lift your shoulders; exhale and drop them heavily. Practice extended exhalation (inhale for 4 seconds, exhale 6 for seconds) to activate the vagus nerve. Step 3: Orienting (30 seconds): Look around and name five neutral objects in your environment. This signals to the brain that there is no immediate threat, preventing stress from accumulating into burnout. Endurance versus neural resilience In Indian corporate culture, there is often a confusion between endurance and neural resilience. Dordi outlines the difference: 1. Endurance means pushing through stress without recovery, leaving the nervous system in sympathetic (fight-flight) activation. Productivity may stay high, but emotional exhaustion builds underneath.2. Neural resilience is flexibility—the brain’s ability to activate under pressure and deactivate when safe. To build this resilience, she suggests: 1. Pairing stress with recovery: After a high-demand task, take a 5-minute walk or three slow breaths. Without this, the nervous system stays on high alert. 2. Scheduling micro-joys: Joy must be planned. Micro-joys are short, sensory-positive moments—listening to one song, drinking chai without a phone, or watching the sunset. Repeated exposure strengthens dopamine pathways through experience-dependent neuroplasticity. 3. Digital boundaries: Check emails in batches, turn off unnecessary notifications, and keep the phone away during meals to reduce digital intrusion. 4. Emotional labelling: At the end of the day, name your emotion: ‘Today felt overwhelming.’ Research shows that ‘naming is regulating’—it reduces amygdala reactivity. The blueprint for a regulated life Urban stress is inevitable, but chronic dysregulation is not. Lasting well-being for the Indian city-dweller rests on three pillars: Circadian discipline, somatic awareness, and intentional recovery. Joy is not the absence of the hustle; it is maintaining a regulated nervous system within it. By claiming our micro-joys and protecting our digital boundaries, we transform the city from a source of friction into a backdrop for a balanced, vibrant life. The Urban Zen Daily Checklist Based on expert inputs, here is a checklist of daily habits to rewire your city-stressed brain. Morning: The circadian anchor1. Sunlight first: Get 20 minutes of natural light within 30 minutes of waking to set your internal clock.2. Delay the ping: Avoid checking work emails or social media for the first half-hour to prevent early dopamine spikes. Mid-day: The somatic reset1. Batch your tasks: Check emails in clusters rather than reacting to every vibration throughout the day.2. The 3-point scan: Every 2 hours, unclamp your jaw, drop your shoulders, and take three slow 4 to 6 breaths.3. Single-task: Focus on one tab at a time to reduce cognitive friction and mental fatigue. Evening: The community pivot1. Look up: During your commute, name 5 neutral objects in your environment to signal safety to your brain.2. Seek connection: Swap a 10-minute scroll for a short, face-to-face conversation to move from collective stress to collective joy. Night: The digital sunset1. Warm lighting: Switch to lamps with warm bulbs 90 minutes before bed to trigger melatonin.2. Device dock: Put your phone away 1 hour before sleep to deactivate alert mode.3. Name the day: Briefly label your dominant emotion (e.g., today felt frantic). Remember, naming is regulating.
20 March,2026 10:50 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalNearly 18,000 people in the age group of 18-45 died due to heart attacks or heart failures in Haryana between January 2020 and January 2026, the Assembly was informed on Wednesday, March 18. The government shared this information in the House in a written reply to a question from a Congress MLA, who had sought to know the "year-wise and district wise number of youths in the 18-45 years of age group who have died due to heart attack/heart failure in Haryana from the year 2020 till date, and whether the government has conducted any study or survey to ascertain whether these deaths have any co-relation with COVID-19 infection or COVID-19 vaccinations; if so, the findings of such study/survey together with the action taken by the government in this regard". The House was informed that no such survey was conducted. The government said according to the information received from the districts, 2,394 such deaths were reported in 2020, 3,188 in 2021, 2,796 in 2022, 2,886 in 2023, 3,063 in 2024, 3,255 in 2025 and 391 in January 2026 (total 17,973). According to the data tabled for various districts, from January 2020 to December 2025, the number of such deaths in Yamunanagar district for each year was respectively 387, 461, 375, 378, 410 and 389. As against this, the figures for Rohtak district were far low at 33, 41, 40, 27, 30 and 30, and for Gurugram, the numbers were 113, 105, 116, 114, 93 and 83. 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.
20 March,2026 11:48 AM IST | Chandigarh | PTIADVERTISEMENT
