A new study has mapped how different body parts communicate with each other under physiological stress, such as during exercise or sleep deprivation, which researchers say could one day help diagnose an illness earlier. Researchers at the University of Portsmouth and University College London, UK, said the study encourages a "whole-body" view of physiology, instead of focusing on isolated measurements such as heart or breathing rate. Using 'transfer entropy' -- a method of monitoring body signals -- a complex network of maps was created showing which body parts act as 'information hubs' under different stress conditions, the team explained. For example, during exercise, the heart -- which is working hard to pump blood to muscles -- receives the most input from other systems and therefore, "takes the lead" in helping the body adapt, the researchers said. Described in a study published in the Journal of Physiology, the maps "show that our body isn't just reacting to one thing at a time," said author Alireza Mani, associate professor and head of the network physiology lab at University College London. "It's responding in an integrated, intelligent way. And by mapping this, we're learning what normal patterns look like, so we can start spotting when things go wrong," Mani said. Organ systems are known to work together to help one adapt and function under conditions that produce stress in the body. The study looked at 22 healthy volunteers who were monitored using wearable sensors during exposure to three stressed environments -- low oxygen (hypoxia), sleep deprivation and physical moderate intensity exercise (cycling). A face mask measured the participants' breathing gases, while a pulse oximeter tracked blood oxygen levels. The researchers analysed the signals recorded -- heart and respiratory rate, blood oxygen levels, and concentration of oxygen and carbon dioxide in exhaled breath -- and tracked how information was being transferred between the organ systems. In a low oxygen environment, blood oxygen becomes the "central player", working closely with breathing to adjust to the lack of air, the researchers said. They explained that when sleep deprivation is added, the changes are more subtle, with information shifting between organ systems -- if low oxygen is also involved, breathing rate suddenly steps up and takes the lead. The maps indicate early, hidden signs of stress that would not be obvious from heart rate or oxygen levels alone, meaning that the findings could one day help spot health problems before symptoms appear, the team said. "This matters in healthcare because early signs of deterioration, especially in intensive care units or during the onset of complex conditions like sepsis or COVID-19, often show up not in the average numbers but in the way those numbers relate to each other," Mani said. The authors wrote, "During exercise, heart rate emerged as the primary recipient of information, whereas (blood oxygen) served as the main disseminator. Hypoxia led to the engagement of (blood oxygen) as a hub in the network." "Sleep deprivation was associated with a shift in the flow of information between the nodes during hypoxia," they 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
10 July,2025 02:12 PM IST | Mumbai | PTIExposure to lead during pregnancy and early childhood may speed up the rate at which children forget information, potentially impairing learning and cognitive development, according to a new study. The study employed a well-established cognitive test known as the delayed matching-to-sample task to assess memory performance in children aged 6 to 8, Xinhua news agency reported. Researchers from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, US, applied a novel statistical model -- the nonlinear modified power function -- which had previously been used in animal and human studies but is now being adapted for environmental health research. The study found that higher blood lead levels between the ages of 4 and 6 were significantly associated with faster rates of forgetting, even at relatively low levels of exposure, with a median blood lead level of approximately 1.7 micrograms per decilitre. The findings, published in the journal Science Advances, suggest that even low-level lead exposure can compromise critical cognitive functions during early childhood. “There may be no more important a trait than the ability to form memories. Memories define who we are and how we learn,” said Robert Wright, from the Department of Environmental Medicine at the Icahn School. “This paper breaks new ground by showing how environmental chemicals can interfere with the rate of memory formation. Children with higher levels of blood lead forgot the test stimulus faster than those with low blood lead levels,” he added. The study opens the door for future work to explore how environmental exposures like lead intersect with other cognitive domains such as attention, executive function, and reward processing. It also strengthens the case for policy interventions that protect children’s developing brains before irreversible harm occurs, the researchers 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
10 July,2025 01:48 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSFinland is demonstrating a different approach to modern healthcare—one that prioritizes accessibility, respect, and efficiency. In contrast to the often complex and delayed systems in many parts of Europe, Finnish providers are enabling patients to access treatment for sensitive issues like erectile dysfunction and obesity through secure, digital means. This approach reduces the need for in-person visits, long queues, and administrative barriers. In particular, the clinic Medilux has established a fully remote model for treating erectile dysfunction. Using secure identity verification via BankID, patients can consult licensed physicians online and receive prescriptions directly within Finland’s national digital system, Kanta. The medications prescribed—such as sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil, avanafil, alprostadil, and testosterone—are well-researched and prescribed based on medical necessity. This process helps reduce stigma and makes it easier for men to seek timely treatment. Compared to more traditional models, where access might be delayed or encumbered by procedure, Finland’s structure is designed to be safe, traceable, and patient-centered. Instances of recurring payment fraud, like those reported elsewhere in Europe, are practically impossible within this tightly integrated and regulated system. The Obesity Crisis: What Europe Still Pretends Isn’t Happening The issue of obesity, often overshadowed by other health concerns, continues to pose a significant challenge to public health systems and government budgets throughout Europe. Despite the availability of effective pharmacological treatments, patients in many countries face limited access due to outdated administrative structures and slow-moving approval pathways. In this environment, individuals are sometimes left with little choice but to seek unreliable alternatives, including unauthorized imports of weight-loss injectables sourced through informal online markets. In Finland, however, several licensed healthcare providers such as DocPort and Mehiläinen have adopted a more accessible model. Through semi-remote evaluations supported by digital identity verification, these clinics enable patients to consult physicians and obtain prescriptions via the country’s integrated e-prescription infrastructure. While certain cases still require laboratory tests or physical follow-up, the process is significantly more streamlined than in most of Europe. What sets Finland apart is the range of approved therapies actively prescribed based on patient profiles. These include well-known branded medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy (semaglutide), Saxenda (liraglutide), Mounjaro (tirzepatide), Mysimba (bupropion/naltrexone), Qsymia (phentermine/topiramate), and Xenical (orlistat). These treatments are dispensed legally through regulated pharmacies under medical supervision, ensuring patient safety. Meanwhile, in other European healthcare systems, access to the same drugs is often delayed or restricted, increasing the appeal—and the risk—of black-market substitutes. Shame Isn’t a Policy — It’s a Barrier A defining strength of Finland’s healthcare approach lies not only in accessibility, but in the trust it builds between patients and providers. Unlike systems that equate complex procedures with security, Finland demonstrates that clear, digitally-supported processes can enhance both safety and transparency. Every stage—from online consultation to pharmacy fulfillment—is documented, verifiable, and designed to prevent misuse. This structure also helps eliminate one of the most persistent barriers to care: stigma. Embarrassment often keeps men from addressing issues like erectile dysfunction, while many women struggle to discuss weight-related concerns due to societal judgment. When healthcare becomes more discreet and easier to access, patients are more willing to seek help. Finland’s system doesn’t deny the demand—it responds to it with regulated digital tools and patient-centered design. Naturally, some critics view this approach with skepticism, calling it overly liberal or risky. Yet the results speak for themselves: more people receiving appropriate care, less reliance on unregulated markets, and improved outcomes over time. As digital health continues to expand, other European countries face a critical decision: adapt to a more open and responsive model—or risk leaving patients underserved and vulnerable to unsafe alternatives. Finland has already taken that step. The question is whether the rest of Europe is ready to follow.
10 July,2025 11:43 AM IST | Geneva | ANIA Mumbai hospital has successfully performed a rare and intricate heart surgery on an 18-month-old child diagnosed with a large ventricular septal defect (VSD) along with an exceptionally uncommon coronary artery anomaly. The child was brought to Dr Supratim Sen, senior consultant paediatric cardiologist at Narayana Health SRCC Children's Hospital, Mumbai - OPD, with symptoms including poor weight gain, frequent respiratory infections, and delayed developmental milestones. A detailed cardiac evaluation revealed not only a significant VSD—an abnormal opening in the heart’s ventricular septum—but also raised suspicions of a rare condition involving the coronary arteries. Normally, the coronary arteries originate from the aorta and supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart. In this case, however, one of the coronary arteries – the left anterior descending (LAD) artery – was suspected to be originating from the pulmonary artery on the patient’s echocardiogram. This rare anomaly, known as Anomalous Left Anterior Descending Coronary Artery Arising from Pulmonary Artery (ALADAPA), was confirmed through a CT coronary angiogram. Only about 10 such cases have been documented worldwide in medical literature. The case was reviewed in a multidisciplinary cardiac team meeting. Given the complexity, the surgical team led by Dr Pradeep Kaushik decided to proceed with a dual procedure: the re-implantation of the anomalous LAD into the aorta and closure of the VSD. The surgery posed significant technical challenges. The LAD, being a delicate vessel of just about one millimetre in diameter, had to be carefully mobilised and reconnected to the aorta without any distortion to ensure long-term blood flow. This step was critical to restoring the heart’s normal pumping function. Both the VSD closure and LAD re-implantation were completed in a single surgery that lasted nearly 10 hours. Post-surgery, the child was closely monitored in the cardiac ICU for 10 days. Follow-up echocardiograms confirmed successful revascularisation, showing that oxygenated blood was now reaching the heart efficiently- an essential indicator of a positive outcome. The child is currently recovering well. Dr Sen explained, “This was an exceptionally rare and challenging case, both in terms of diagnosis and surgical planning. The ALADAPA is a condition so uncommon that it can easily be missed unless we look closely at every detail during the echocardiogram. The fact that we were able to identify this condition and successfully address both the VSD and the anomalous coronary artery during the complex surgery is a testament to the expertise available at Narayana Health SRCC. This case underscores the importance of high-quality paediatric cardiac care and the need to remain vigilant for even the rarest conditions. Dr Kaushik, senior consultant pediatric cardiac surgeon at the hospital added, “I am proud of the entire cardiac team—from the cardiologists who confirmed our suspicion, to the surgical team that carried out a technically demanding operation with great precision, to the anesthesia and ICU teams who ensured that the patient recovered well from this complex surgery.” Dr. Zubin Pereira, facility director at the city hospital further added, “Timely diagnosis, detailed planning, and seamless teamwork were the keys to saving this child’s life. This achievement reinforces our commitment to providing advanced, high-quality paediatric cardiac care. The expertise and dedication of our team ensure that rare and complex conditions can also be managed successfully.” The child will continue to receive regular cardiac follow-ups to monitor long-term outcomes.
09 July,2025 08:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAsthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Affecting more than 300 million people worldwide, asthma is a significant public health concern that can severely impact an individual's quality of life if not properly managed. Although the exact cause of asthma is multifactorial—ranging from genetic predisposition to environmental triggers—the underlying mechanisms involve immune system dysregulation, airway hyperresponsiveness, and chronic inflammation. Conventional asthma treatment usually includes inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, leukotriene modifiers, and biologic agents targeting specific immune pathways like IgE or interleukin-5. These therapies help control inflammation, relax airway muscles, and reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. While these medications are effective for many patients, they often require lifelong use and do not fully address the systemic factors contributing to asthma progression. With advancements in medical science and biotechnology, new pathways have emerged in the field of asthma disease treatment. Precision medicine is gaining attention, especially in severe and treatment-resistant cases, where biologic therapies tailored to a patient’s unique immunological profile are showing encouraging outcomes. Moreover, stem cell-based therapies and immunomodulatory approaches are being studied for their potential to repair damaged lung tissues and restore immune balance. Another evolving area in the asthma disease treatment landscape is the identification of endotypes—biological subtypes of asthma defined by specific molecular and cellular mechanisms. Understanding these endotypes allows for more accurate and effective treatment decisions, enabling physicians to target the root cause of the disease rather than simply alleviating symptoms. Embracing Regenerative and Holistic Treatments for Asthma At AMSA Biotech, we are dedicated to developing and delivering next-generation therapies that not only manage symptoms but aim to correct the underlying mechanisms of chronic diseases. For asthma, this means integrating advanced biologic research with holistic treatments for asthma that support long-term respiratory health and immune regulation. Regenerative strategies, such as those using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), are being investigated for their anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects in patients with asthma. Preclinical studies suggest that MSCs can reduce airway inflammation, decrease mucus production, and promote tissue repair in the lungs. This opens a promising window for cellular approaches to asthma treatment, particularly in cases that are not adequately controlled by conventional drugs. In parallel, holistic treatments for asthma are gaining recognition in comprehensive care models. These treatments consider the patient's overall lifestyle, environmental exposure, diet, and stress levels. Nutritional support with anti-inflammatory foods, breathing techniques like Buteyko and pranayama, allergen avoidance, and even gut microbiota modulation are all part of integrative asthma care aimed at improving the patient’s resilience and respiratory health naturally. Furthermore, exosome-based therapies—utilizing extracellular vesicles derived from stem cells—are also under scientific investigation for their potential to carry regenerative signals to inflamed lung tissues. Exosomes may help in reducing chronic airway inflammation without the risks associated with systemic immunosuppressive drugs, making them a viable component of future asthma disease treatment protocols. At AMSA Biotech, we believe that successful asthma treatment must be comprehensive, evidence-based, and personalized. Our research focuses on combining regenerative technologies with lifestyle-based interventions to address not only the symptoms but the root biological causes of asthma. This multi-dimensional approach is designed to enhance patient outcomes, reduce dependency on steroids, and ultimately lead to better long-term control of the condition. In summary, the future of asthma treatment lies in the fusion of scientific innovation and holistic care. With continued research and patient-centered solutions, AMSA Biotech is committed to transforming the way asthma is managed—helping individuals breathe easier, live better, and move toward a healthier, more resilient future.
09 July,2025 04:30 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWhile cancer has seen some significant advancements in treatments that have shown promise and increased lifespan, these may also cause serious side effects, which can affect quality of life. A new study by researchers from Australia is shedding new light on the reasons behind these side effects, Xinhua news agency reported. The team from Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI) in Melbourne discovered that the protein MCL-1 -- a key target in cancer drug development -- plays not only a role in preventing cell death in cancer cells but also supplying energy to normal cells. As a result, drugs that inhibit MCL-1 can inadvertently damage healthy tissues that rely on this protein for energy, especially in organs with high energy demand like the heart and liver, leading to the severe side effects observed in clinical trials, said the team. The new findings clarify that these side effects may be linked to the protein's critical role in cellular energy production, which enables the development of safer, more targeted cancer therapies that reduce harm to healthy tissues while staying effective against cancer. First author Dr Kerstin Brinkmann said that while previous research in cell cultures had hinted at the metabolic role of MCL-1 in providing energy to cells, it was unclear whether this mattered in living organisms. “The findings open up a completely new way of thinking about the intersection between programmed cell death and metabolism – something that’s been speculated on for years but never been shown in a living organism until now,” Brinkmann said. The study, published in the journal Science, also paves the way for safer combination therapies by enabling smarter dosing and pairing of MCL-1 inhibitors with other treatments to reduce toxicity. "If we can direct MCL-1 inhibitors preferentially to tumour cells and away from the cells of the heart and other healthy tissues, we may be able to selectively kill cancer cells while sparing healthy tissues," said Andreas Strasser, a researcher at the WEHI laboratory head. 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 July,2025 01:28 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSEven in moderation, consumption of ultra-processed foods is linked with measurable increases in risk for chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancers, according to research. A study showed that low but regular intake of processed meat, sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), and trans fatty acids (TFAs) can increase the risk of diseases like Type 2 diabetes, ischemic heart disease (IHD), and colorectal cancer. While the risks have long been known, systematic characterisation of the dose-response relationships between these foods and health outcomes is limited, said the researchers from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington. In the paper published in the journal Nature Medicine, the team showed that consumption of processed meat between 0.6 grams and 57 grams daily can raise the risk of type 2 diabetes by at least 11 per cent compared with no consumption. For colorectal cancer, the risk was 7 per cent higher for consumption between 0.78 grams per day and 55 grams per day. The relative risk of IHD was estimated at 1.15 at 50 grams per day intake. Further, an intake of sugar-sweetened beverage between 1.5 and 390 grams daily was found to raise the average risk of type 2 diabetes by 8 per cent. Intake between 0 and 365 grams per day was associated with a 2 per cent higher average risk of IHD. “The new analysis supports dietary guidelines to reduce the consumption of processed meat, sugar-sweetened beverages and trans-fatty acids -- highlighting the need for a collaborative, meticulous health assessment framework for ultra-processed foods,” said the researchers in the paper. The findings showed that the risk increased continuously at every level of consumption, with the steepest increases occurring at low habitual intake, approximately equivalent to one serving or less daily. Several previous studies have linked ultra-processed foods, particularly processed meats, sugar-sweetened beverages, and trans fatty acids, with elevated chronic disease risks. Estimates suggest that diets high in processed meat contributed to nearly 300,000 deaths worldwide in 2021, while diets rich in sugar-sweetened beverages and trans fats accounted for millions of disability-adjusted life years. It is because processed meats preserved through smoking, curing, or chemical additives often contain compounds such as N-nitroso agents, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and heterocyclic amines -- compounds implicated in tumour development, explained the researchers. 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 July,2025 12:53 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSLungs of teenagers need protection, not pollution from vapes, medical experts have stressed while highlighting the dangers of vaping and the emergence of new-age gateway devices. A group of doctors supporting the movement of Mothers Against Vaping, a collective dedicated to raising awareness about the ill effects of vaping and working to eradicate it, said vaping has health implications, including issues like coughing, dry throat, shortness of breath, or headaches. More alarmingly, it can affect the heart, raising blood pressure, increasing heart rate, and even leading to a heart attack, they said. Dr K K Handa, chairman, ENT, head and neck surgery, Medanta Hospital, said the common myth that vaping is safer than smoking is totally incorrect. "Vaping can damage lungs after prolonged use since vapes contain nicotine, which has a serious addictive potential. Over time vape addiction can cause severe and serious mental issues like depression and anxiety. There is also a physical safety concern, as the devices used for vaping can sometimes catch fire. So, vaping is not safe at all," Dr Handa said. According to Mothers Against Vaping, multiple reputed studies have clearly indicated the health risks of vaping and e-cigarettes. A recent study in April 2025 by Johns Hopkins Medicine analysed medical data gathered from almost 250,000 people over a four-year period. The findings significantly linked the exclusive use of e-cigarettes to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and high blood pressure. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has called for urgent action to protect children and prevent the uptake of e-cigarettes. These products are openly available and are aggressively marketed to young people. Children are being targeted and trapped into early nicotine addiction through the use of e-cigarettes. Dr Harish Bhatia, Director and Head of Respiratory Medicine, MGS Super Speciality Hospital, Punjabi Bagh, said vapes, e-cigarettes, Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS), Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) devices and other Heated Tobacco Products (HTPs) directly damage the lungs. Lungs of teens need protection, not pollution from vapes. And any teen that is vaping needs immediate course correction. Only with good lungs will there be the beginning of Viksit Bharat, Dr Bhatia said. Mothers Against Vaping has been consistently highlighting how teenagers and even children are falling prey to vapes, posing a real danger of losing the next generation to these new-age gateway devices. Dr Rajesh Gupta, Director of Pulmonology at Fortis Hospital, said adolescents often start vaping socially at parties or under peer pressure, believing it is harmless or even better than smoking. But this is a myth, and even occasional vaping exposes the lungs to harmful chemicals, which irritate and inflame their delicate tissues, often leading to serious problems. In children whose lungs are still developing, this damage can be very long-lasting. And this damage does not stop at the lungs. Nicotine in the e-cigarettes is highly addictive and affects the brain, altering attention, memory, learning, and emotional regulation, Dr Gupta said. "Social vaping can quickly spiral into regular addictive use, resulting in lifelong health consequences. As adults, parents, and educators, we must speak openly with children about the risks and act early. We should not assume that it's just a phase because every casual use is a potential gateway to long-term harm," Dr Rajesh added. On the various ways and means of tackling vaping, Dr Bhavna Barmi, clinical psychologist and founder, Happiness Studio, said, "First of all, it is very important to build emotional literacy because vaping is not just peer pressure; it's also an emotional escape. "When we teach our kids to name their feelings through journaling, mood charts, and open reflections, they will not need to numb them. There is also a need for guidance and awareness among parents, as most of them miss warning signs or respond with shame. We should provide workshops and conversation guides that encourage calm, curious dialogue. Punishment shuts kids down; understanding opens them up," Dr Barmi stressed. "We also need to unpack the role of social media. Vaping looks glamorous online, but we should teach who profits and what the hidden agenda is. Teaching media literacy helps kids build critical thinking -- their best defence. Replace, don't just remove, should be our key. Let's give our children healthy alternatives - connection, creativity, and a sense of identity beyond grades or popularity. "When our children are going to feel valued, they will stop escaping. Also, addiction recovery is not about control; it is about care, building safe, slow, and non-judgmental therapy spaces," Dr Barmi added. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
08 July,2025 08:19 PM IST | Mumbai | PTIWith the monsoon season underway, experts have said there is a surge in viral fevers and other seasonal infections during this time of the year. Prolonged fever, often neglected and labeled as a mild infection, could be an early sign of a serious condition. Timely investigation and proper diagnosis are important, especially in children, where fever may be the only visible symptom of an underlying issue. Dr Nimitt Nagda, internal medicine expert, Zynova Shalby Hospital in Ghatkopar said, "With the start of the monsoon, we are seeing a big rise in cases of viral fever and PUO (pyrexia of unknown origin). In fact, about 30–40 per cent of patients visiting the OPD during this time come with fever-related complaints. The humid weather, waterlogging, and mosquito breeding create ideal conditions for infections to spread. Many patients come with high fever, body pain, headache, weakness, and sometimes skin rashes. It becomes difficult to find the exact cause without proper tests. In such cases, advanced tests help us identify the infection early and start the right treatment quickly. He adds, "Early diagnosis also helps avoid complications and prevents the unnecessary use of antibiotics. We strongly advise people not to take medicines on their own. Drink enough water, maintain hygiene, and see a doctor if fever lasts more than three days. It is also important to control mosquitoes by keeping your surroundings clean and avoiding stagnant water. During this season, taking care of your health, getting tests done on time, and starting treatment early can help reduce serious infections. Staying alert and taking preventive steps is the best way to protect yourself and your family during the monsoon." Dr. Abhik Banerjee, zonal technical chief, East India, Apollo Diagnostic in Kolkata says viral fever happens due to different viruses that result in an elevated body temperature. These include dengue, influenza, chikungunya, and viral gastroenteritis, all of which spike during the monsoon. He further explains, “The incidences rise due to stagnant water, mosquito breeding, and consumption of contaminated food and water. The symptoms seen in people can be body aches, fatigue, sore throat, cough, rashes, or nausea. Alongside viral fevers, bacterial infections like typhoid and leptospirosis also see a rise, particularly in flood-affected or poorly drained areas. Treatment suggested by the expert is rest, hydration, and fever-reducing medications, while severe cases may need antiviral or supportive care. Preventive tips are maintaining hygiene, using mosquito repellents, drinking clean water, and avoiding street food during the rainy season.” Dr Banerjee adds, “Moreover, Pyrexia of Unknown Origin (PUO) happens when a fever lasts more than three weeks. In pediatric cases, this becomes concerning as children may not show clear symptoms and struggle in silence. Common causes can be viral or bacterial infections to autoimmune conditions, or even hidden cancers. Parents should watch for signs like lethargy, poor appetite, weight loss, or intermittent fever and consult an expert if fever persists beyond 7–10 days. Remember, PUO requires a detailed testing involving blood cultures, imaging, and advanced lab tests to find the root cause and initiate prompt management without any delay.” Timely diagnosis and management are key. “Advanced diagnostics measures such as multiplex PCR panels, inflammatory markers, ultrasound or MRI, and immunological tests help doctors to know the cause behind the fever. Managing PUO involves antibiotics and antivirals, to immunosuppressant’s. In all cases, early testing leads to faster recovery. So, parents should exercise caution and follow the guidelines given by the expert,” he concludes.
08 July,2025 12:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentOver 15 million people in the world born between 2008 and 2017 might develop gastric cancer at some point in life, with India contributing the second highest number among these cases, after China, a study has projected. Two-thirds of the more than 15 million projected cases could be concentrated in Asia, followed by the Americas and Africa. Researchers, including those from the International Agency for Research on Cancer — the World Health Organisation's cancer agency — analysed data on the incidence of gastric cancer across 185 countries using the GLOBOCAN 2022 database, along with death rates projected from United Nations demographic data. "Globally, 15.6 million lifetime gastric cancer cases are expected within these birth cohorts, 76 per cent of which are attributable to Helicobacter pylori (bacteria)," the authors said in the study published in the journal Nature Medicine. A persistent infection due to 'Helicobacter pylori' — a common bacteria found in the stomach — is said to be the main driver of gastric cancer, which ranks as the world's fifth leading cause of death from cancer. The authors called for more investment in preventing gastric cancer, especially through population-level screening and treating of the bacterial infection, known to be preventable through effective treatment. They added that increasing incidence among the young and an ageing population together threatens to reverse recent efforts in bringing down death rates and cases of gastric cancer. The study projected 10.6 million of new gastric cancer cases will occur in Asia, with 6.5 million cases expected in India and China alone. Cases from India could be 1,657,670 with no changes in the current measures for controlling gastric cancer, it projected. Further, sub-Saharan Africa — currently having a relatively low burden of gastric cancer — could see a future burden at least six times higher than 2022 estimates suggest, the authors said. However, if measures to control gastric cancer in the population are taken, such as screening for and treating bacterial infections, the authors found that expected cases of the disease could be brought down by up to 75 per cent. 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 July,2025 12:33 PM IST | Mumbai | PTIPeople relishing tea, pakoras and other seasonal delicacies while enjoying the weather outside is common during the monsoon season, but so is the risk of contracting infections due to unhygienic or unsafe food and water. The risk of certain diseases like dengue, malaria and leptospirosis increases during the monsoon. Another illness that sees a surge during the rainy days is typhoid, or typhoid fever, which is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi. It usually spreads through the ingestion of contaminated food and water. If not diagnosed and treated on time, the condition can also prove to be life-threatening. Hence, it becomes essential to watch out for warning signs of the disease. Symptoms of typhoid According to the World Health Organization (WHO), some common symptoms of typhoid are prolonged high fever, fatigue, nausea, headache, abdominal pain and constipation or diarrhoea, and in some cases, rashes. If a person or their family members observe these symptoms, they should immediately contact a doctor to confirm the diagnosis through medical tests. Risk factors Poor sanitation and lack of access to safe food and drinking water are major risk factors of typhoid. Additionally, children are more at risk of contracting the infection. Prevention tips Typhoid is usually treated through antibiotics, and supportive care if required. However, one can reduce the risk of contracting the infection, especially during the monsoon season, through some simple steps. The WHO lists the following prevention tips: 1. Ensure food is properly cooked and still hot when served. 2. Avoid raw milk. It is advisable to consume pasteurised or boiled milk. 3. Boil water before drinking, especially if its safety is questionable. 4. Wash fruits and vegetables before consuming. 5. Follow proper hand hygiene. In June 2025, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) had issued an advisory stating precautionary measures to protect oneself from monsoon-related diseases. Also Read: BMC issues guidelines as Mumbai sees rise in Vector borne diseases in June According to the health advisory, here are some steps that can be taken to prevent water-borne diseases like typhoid: 1. Avoid consuming street food. 2. Drink boiled water. 3. Wash hands or use hand sanitiser before eating. Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Kindly consult a qualified medical professional for personalised guidance.
07 July,2025 05:36 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
