Various factors such as high work-related stress, extended working hours, and a lack of physical activity, can affect the fertility of women and men. People need to improve fertility by managing work-related stress, eating healthily despite irregular schedules and late shifts, and doing at least 30 minutes of daily exercise to get rid of sedentary habits. Prioritising careers can cause delays in marriage and family planning for both, women and men. Many women and men are choosing to postpone marriage and parenthood because of career aspirations and goals. While many tend t to give importance to professional life which is also important, doing so can impact fertility for females and males. Dr Rupali Tambe, fertility consultant Nova IVF Pune, explains, “In today's fast-paced world, there is cut-throat competition and pressure to succeed in the particular profession that one is a part of. If stress is not effectively managed, it can impact sleep patterns, and eating habits, and lead to reliance on substances like caffeine, alcohol, and drugs - all of which can hinder fertility. High stress levels raise the risk of hormonal imbalances, disrupt the ovulation cycle, and pregnancy issues that can be concerning. Irregular work schedules, late hours at the office, lack of physical activity, and unhealthy diet choices are certain factors that can impact a woman’s chance of conceiving. Postponing marriage for a career may result in reduced quantity and quality of eggs, necessitating assisted reproductive technologies for conception." Dr Padma Srivastava, consultant obstetrician & gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Lullanagar, Pune adds, "The mounting stress, long working hours, and sedentary lifestyles among today's working population are significantly impacting male fertility. High stress can diminish sperm quality and lower testosterone levels, hindering conception. Irregular sleep patterns and hormone disruptions caused by late working hours can exacerbate these issues. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to obesity and low sperm count, further contributing to fertility problems. Approximately 20-30 per cent of infertility cases are attributed to abnormal sperm counts, a trend that seems to be escalating alongside associated medical conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension. These health issues are often the result of unhealthy lifestyles. However, adopting a healthier diet, incorporating regular exercise, and effective stress management techniques can help improve sperm count and overall fertility outcomes. Relaxation practices like meditation and yoga, and adequate sleep are essential for maintaining reproductive health." “Both, females and males will have to be ahead of time by ensuring pregnancy planning with the guidance of a fertility consultant. The couple can choose the option of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment and egg freezing after discussing with the expert. Stay stress-free by doing yoga and meditation to help combat work-related stress, open up about your feelings with your family members and friends, practice self-care, and take counseling if required. It will also be imperative for females and males to exercise daily for at least 30 minutes and eat a nutritious diet as the work schedule is hectic and long. The working population should adhere to a healthy lifestyle to be able to conceive without any trouble in later life,” concludes Dr Rupali.
17 September,2024 04:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Pakistan confirmed its third case of the Mpox variant last week. It is the third in a series of cases being reported from around the world after Sweden, the Democratic Republic of Congo and other African countries in the last month. The rising number has even led the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare Mpox, formerly called Monkeypox, as a public health emergency of global concern. In India, experts have come out to suggest screening at the airports. The rising number of cases is especially concerning because even India has seen rising cases of Mpox in the past, particularly in 2022. Ever since then, the WHO has reported 27 cases in India and one death from the disease. Keeping the rising cases in mind, mid-day.com spoke to Dr Chhaya Vaja, internal medicine expert, Apollo Spectra Mumbai, and Dr Honey Savla, internal medicine, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central to know more about the disease and how it affects people. They not only delve into the causes but also the effects, treatment and severity. What is Monkeypox and how is it caused?Vaja: The Monkeypox virus was discovered in 1958. Even though this disease was named Monkeypox, till that time the main reason behind its occurrence was not known. The first human case of monkeypox was seen in 1970. However, the World Health Organization changed the name of this disease in 2022, following the modern guidelines regarding the naming of diseases. That guideline suggests disease names should avoid offending cultural, social, national, regional, professional, or ethnic groups and was created to minimise unnecessary negative impacts on trade, travel, tourism, or animal welfare. However, the virus that causes the disease still has its historical name. Savla: Mpox (previously referred to as monkeypox) is a viral zoonotic infection that is caused by monkeypox virus and results in a rash similar to that of smallpox. However, historically, person-to-person spread outside the household and mortality from mpox are significantly less than for smallpox. The rash of mpox can also be similar in appearance to more common infectious rashes, such as those observed in secondary syphilis, herpes simplex infection, and varicella-zoster virus infection. The WHO has declared it a public health emergency of global concern. Why is the viral infection so deadly?Vaja: There are two types of mumps viruses, Clade 1 and Clade 2. Clade 1 is a more serious disease than the others and can also cause death. Despite this, considering its seriousness it is not right to ignore it. Clade 2 is the cause of the outbreak that started in 2022. However, the symptoms in patients of this Clade 2 are indeed mild and 99 percent of people recover from this disease. Savla: The mortality associated with mpox varies. In the 2023 outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where it is prevalent, the estimated case fatality rate is 4 per cent overall, but is 11 per cent in children under five years of age. In earlier studies, the fatality rate in Central Africa was reported as approximately 10 percent, with deaths generally occurring in the second week of illness. Hence, it's a global emergency. Who is most likely to suffer from the disease and why? Is it seen more in males and females?Vaja: Mpox is seen in children and adults. Savla: Most patients diagnosed with mpox reported high-risk sexual behaviour (for example: sex with multiple partners) as a potential risk factor. It is commonly seen in men having sex with men. Direct exposure to animals (including exposure to ill prairie dogs' urine and faeces) without personal protection equipment (PPE) was felt to be the likely source of transmission, although person-to-person transmission could not be entirely excluded. What are the symptoms of Monkeypox and when should people visit the doctor?Vaja: The symptoms include fever, feeling cold, swollen lymph nodes, tiredness, muscle and back pain, headache respiratory problems such as sore throat, nasal congestion and cough.Also Read: ‘Chikungunya can be confused with malaria and dengue’: Mumbai doctors highlight symptoms, treatment What are the short-term and long-term effects of Monkeypox?Vaja: The effects of monkeypox include painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes, and fever in the short term and severe complications like bacterial infection from skin lesions, mpox affecting the brain (encephalitis), and heart (myocarditis). Savla: Long-term effects will be known in the coming years. Can Monkeypox be treated? If not, how can people take care?Vaja: Antiviral drugs are used to treat monkeypox. Savla: Most immunocompetent patients with mpox have mild disease and will recover without medical intervention. However, some patients may require pain relief medication for pain related to proctitis or tonsillitis. In addition, for conditions like proctitis, stool softeners and sometimes sitz baths may need to be used. Tecovirimat was the agent most commonly used since it was available through an expanded access investigational new drug (EA-IND) protocol held by the CDC. However, data supporting the efficacy of antiviral therapy for patients with mpox are limited. How can people prevent the disease? What are the precautions that people take?Vaja: To prevent Mpox, it is important to get vaccinated. It is necessary to take both its recommended dosages within four weeks. If for some reason there is a delay in getting the vaccine, then it would be better to stay away from infected people. Avoid coming in skin-to-skin contact with people. Especially, do not touch people who are seeing Mpox-like rashes on their hands, face, chest, mouth, etc. Avoid kissing or having sex with people infected with mumps. If you belong to a place where this disease is spreading, avoid touching animals in such places, which carry the mumps virus. Savla: Here are some of the precautions that people can take:1. Skin lesions should be covered with long sleeves, long pants to minimise risk of contact with mpox lesions2. Patients should avoid sharing their used clothes, towels, food, utensils, or face masks with others and should not allow animals to access them.3. Individuals with mpox should wear a well-fitting facemask when around others, even if respiratory symptoms are not present. Ideally, household members should wear a facemask when in the presence of a person with mpox as well.4. Household members providing care to patients with mpox should use disposable gloves for direct contact with lesions.Also Read: 'Rawdogging' travel trend raises alarms: Health experts warn of serious risks Why are there increasing cases in African countries, Sweden and Pakistan? What is the prevalence in India and is there a possibility of it affecting people here?Vaja: From Africa to Sweden and now Pakistan, mpox is spreading across the globe. It is a concerning viral infection that spreads through close contact with the infected person. At least 27 confirmed cases and one death due to Monkeypox have been reported in India since 2022, according to the WHO data. How has monkeypox as a disease of concern evolved since it was first declared a health concern in 2022 by WHO?Vaja: According to WHO data, at least 99,176 cases and 208 deaths from Mpox have been reported in 116 countries since 2022. Can the symptoms of monkeypox be confused with any other disease in India?Vaja: The mpox rash may be similar to chickenpox. Savla: Mpox can be confused with smallpox or chicken pox or shingles. During the 2022 global outbreak, even India reported cases of mpox, albeit of the less deadly Clade 2 type. Initially, infections were reported among some people from Kerala who had a history of international travel. However, later even those without a history of international travel got infected in Delhi.
17 September,2024 03:59 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoPrice sensitivity, quality, and environmental awareness play a significant role in shaping women's attitudes toward menstrual cup adoption in India, according to a study by researchers at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow, on Tuesday. The study, published in the esteemed Journal of Social Marketing, investigates the various factors influencing women's intentions to adopt menstrual cups. Focusing on how perceived values -- functional, emotional, conditional, epistemic, and environmental -- impact adoption decisions, the team surveyed 304 women. The findings reveal that emotional values had the most significant influence, “suggesting that respondents believe that they are making personal contributions towards sustainability and society by adopting menstrual cups”. This was followed by environmental factors. Previous studies showed that the environmental costs of menstrual cups are less than the conventional products, as sanitary pads produce substantial environmental waste, and therefore, result in high plastic pollution. The environmental factor regarding menstrual cups “forms a positive attitude towards behavioural intention; which resonates well with social marketing principles, where societal and environmental well-being is a central theme”, said the team. In addition, factors such as the desire for knowledge, price sensitivity, and quality considerations also greatly influence adoption intentions. “Adopting menstrual cups in India can revolutionise feminine hygiene by promoting health, comfort, and environmental sustainability, reducing waste and infection risks for millions of women. It is a vital step toward empowering women with safer, eco-friendly choices," said Prof. Priyanka Sharma, from IIM Lucknow “Prioritising menstrual health is key to fostering well-being and dignity for women across the nation,” she added. The insights gained from this research can be instrumental for social marketers and policymakers aiming to promote menstrual cup usage. By emphasising the emotional value of menstrual cups and showcasing their sustainable benefits, such as reducing environmental waste, marketing campaigns can be designed to encourage more women to make the switch, the researchers said. Also Read: Skincare and haircare products linked to hormonal disruptions in children: Study 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
17 September,2024 12:59 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSEven as injectable weight loss drugs have become a popular option for people struggling with obesity, 1 in 4 or 25 per cent consider using them without consulting their doctor, exposing themselves to several health risks, finds a study on Tuesday. Cost and lack of insurance coverage are some reasons for seeking prescription alternatives, said the team from The Ohio State University, US, who surveyed 1,006 adults in America. “Some people are skipping the doctor’s office and reaching out to potentially unreliable sources such as unlicensed online pharmacies or telehealth sites, which could expose patients to risks,” the team said. Cost (18 per cent) is the major reason identified in the survey, followed by not being covered by insurance (15 per cent), inability to get a prescription from their doctor (9 per cent), and lack of availability through a pharmacy (6 per cent). “It’s really important for those who want to lose weight to first discuss options with their doctor. It is not one size fits all, and every medication can have risks and side effects,” said Shengyi Mao, an Ohio State internal medicine physician. Mao said doctors will “go through a patient’s medical history” and prescribe medications by assessing “their particular risks and benefits”. Recently developed weight loss drugs called GLP1-RA (with brand names Ozempic and Wegovy) help in weight loss because they can curb appetite and slow emptying of the stomach. The medication which comes with Semaglutide salt has been approved by the US FDA for reducing cardiovascular risk in adults who are overweight or obese and have established cardiovascular disease. But the regulator also issued two warnings about compounded Semaglutide including reports of dosing errors resulting in hospitalisation and ineffective ingredients. Compounded drugs are custom-made alternatives to brand names and made in state-licensed pharmacies instead of by drug manufacturers when a drug is in short supply. Mao said “Obesity is a serious and complex chronic disease” and should be addressed by a “comprehensive weight management programme”. “These weight loss drugs may be effective for some people but they can cause serious side effects and the weight may return after they stop taking them.” 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.
17 September,2024 12:12 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSCovid seems to be rising again with a new and more contagious variant -- XEC -- spreading rapidly across 15 countries. First detected in Germany in June, XEC is a combination of the KS.1.1 and KP.3.3 variants. According to reports, it has already overtaken the previously dominant FliRT strain of the deadly virus. The strain, belonging to the Omicron variant, is currently spreading "quite rapidly" across Europe, North America and Asia. About 550 samples have now been reported, from 27 countries, including Poland, Norway, Luxembourg, Ukraine, Portugal, the US and China have now reported samples. "At this juncture, the XEC variant appears to be the most likely one to get legs next," Eric Topol, Director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute in California, US, said in a recent post on X. As per experts, XEC comes with some new mutations that might help it spread this autumn. However, vaccines may help prevent severe cases. In a post on X, a Melbourne-based data expert Mike Honey stated that XEC strain is "a likely next challenger to the currently dominant variants". Honey noted that XEC has already charged ahead of other variants like the FLiRT, FLuQU and DEFLuQE strains. The strain reportedly causes symptoms that are similar to those experienced with common illnesses such as influenza and colds. While most people will get better within a few weeks, for some it may take longer to recover and some may even require hospitalisation. According to the UK NHS, the variant causes flu-like symptoms which includes a high temperature or shivering (chills), a new, continuous cough, a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste, shortness of breath, fatigue, body ache, loss of appetite, among others. 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.
17 September,2024 11:56 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSA team of researchers on Monday said that exposure to arsenic and other toxic metals may accelerate the progression toward diabetes. In a study of over 500 Mexican Americans living in southern Texas in the US, researchers from University of Illinois Chicago found that high levels of toxic metals in urine predicted faster increases in blood sugar over subsequent years. The study, published in Diabetes Care, highlights an underappreciated risk factor for diabetes. Environmental exposures have largely been neglected as drivers of the diabetes epidemic. “These data support using environmental policy as a new tool to mitigate the devastating burden of diabetes on individuals and society at large,” said Margaret Weiss, first author of the study. Based on these results, individuals with the highest levels of arsenic in their urine were projected to qualify as prediabetic 23 months earlier and diabetic 65 months earlier than those with the lowest exposure to the toxic metal. The study emphasised that this risk factor can be addressed by reducing exposure to contaminated food, water and other products. On average, blood sugar levels increased in all participants. But in those who initially exhibited higher urinary levels of arsenic, selenium, copper, molybdenum, nickel or tin, blood sugar increased at a faster rate over the three years. This acceleration puts those who started with normal blood sugar levels at risk of developing prediabetes and diabetes earlier than others in their population. In clinical medicine, time really matters. The earlier you develop diabetes, the worse the complications are. The longer you have diabetes, the worse the complications are. It underscores the need to engage these folks sooner in the clinic,” said Dr Robert Sargis, associate professor in the College of Medicine. How arsenic and other metals increase the risk of diabetes isn’t completely understood. Other metals, namely cobalt and zinc, were associated in the study with lower blood sugar in subsequent years, suggesting a potentially protective effect of some elements. However, the alarming results with arsenic and other toxic metals suggest they are environmental risk factors that could be new targets to prevent the disease. 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.
17 September,2024 11:54 AM IST | New York | IANS
The streets of Mumbai and many other cities are currently brimming with the excitement of Ganeshotsav 2024. There’s activity and vibrancy throughout the country. People are dressing up, preparing delicious treats, visiting friends and family and participating in community activities, and there’s a general atmosphere of joy and excitement. Festivals like Paryushan Parv, Onam and Eid also fall during this time. However, the curtains will soon be drawn on this festive season. As Ganpati Bappa bids the final farewell on September 17 and other festivals also draw to a close, the vibrant festive atmosphere will make way for normalcy. This shift can lead to some people experiencing an emotional phenomenon called the post-festival blues. Moreover, after the busyness of the festive season, which is characterised by indulging in sweets and other treats, a body detox may become essential to get your system back on track. Mid-day.com speaks to health experts who share tips to keep your mental and physical health on track after the festive season. Navigating post-festival blues Post-festival blues refers to a feeling of sadness or a sense of dullness upon returning to normalcy after the extravagance of a festival. Dr Kedar Tilwe, Consultant Psychiatrist, Fortis Hospital Mulund and Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi, says, “It is fairly common to experience low mood or slight anxiety, especially if you have had a great festive season.” Shruti Shah, a Mumbai-based psychologist and founder of Holistic Mind Therapy, further explains, “As the festive season wraps up, many people experience a drop in mood and energy, commonly referred to as ‘post-festival blues’. In Indian culture, where festivals like Ganeshotsav, Diwali, Navratri and Eid hold immense significance and are times of great joy and connection, the emotional shift post-festivities can be particularly noticeable.” She adds, “Post-festival blues can manifest as feelings of low mood, lack of energy, irritability, and a sense of emptiness once the excitement fades. From a psychological perspective, any intense experience, such as a festival, often brings with it a build-up of emotions and expectations. Once it's over, the abrupt drop in activity and stimulation can leave people feeling adrift.” Also Read: Grief, loneliness, fear of missing out: Experts share tips to navigate mental health challenges during the festive season But why does this occur? Shah states the following factors that can contribute to post-festival blues: Emotional highs and lows: The lead-up to festivals involves excitement, anticipation and participation in joyous activities like family gatherings, rituals and celebrations. Once this is over, the contrast between the high-energy festive atmosphere and the return to normal routine can feel stark. Unmet expectations: Festivals often come with emotional and social expectations—whether it’s reconnecting with family, enjoying certain traditions or simply having a "perfect" celebration. When these expectations aren’t met, it can result in disappointment and a feeling of loss. Financial and physical strain: In India, festivals often involve significant expenditures, from gifts to travel and elaborate celebrations. This can create financial stress afterward. Similarly, the physical toll of late nights, heavy food and travel may leave people exhausted and more prone to emotional fluctuations. Social withdrawal: Indian festivals are typically community-driven, full of interactions with friends, neighbours and extended family. Post-festivities, this sudden drop in social engagements can lead to feelings of loneliness. Tips to ensure mental well-being during the festive season While post-festival blues are real and a common occurrence, there are ways in which one can manage their emotions better during this time. Dr. Tilwe suggests the following: Talking about this with your immediate family would be helpful. If possible, reconnect with your cousins and friends whom you met after such a long time over the next week or a couple of weeks. Follow through on the plans that you made together. Gratitude journaling is a great way to handle the post-festival blues. If you want to add a twist to it, you could decide the activities that you plan to do in the coming festive season, which starts next month. Shah has the following tips: Embrace the transition mindfully: Acknowledge that it’s normal to feel a little down once the festivities are over. Be gentle with yourself and try to adopt a mindful approach to transitioning back into your routine. Grounding exercises, such as deep breathing or spending a few quiet moments in reflection, can help. Focus on small pleasures: Once the festival is over, shift your attention to smaller joys that can offer fulfillment, such as enjoying your morning coffee, reading a good book or even trying a new recipe. Keeping the joy alive in everyday activities helps prevent that sense of emptiness. Stay connected: While the festive season is over, continue to maintain social connections. Reach out to friends or relatives you enjoyed spending time with during the celebrations, even if just for a casual conversation. This sense of continuity can help bridge the emotional gap. Recovery plan: Festivities can be physically and emotionally draining. Schedule some rest days to allow your body and mind to recover. This helps avoid burnout and restores your energy levels gradually. Set new goals: Post-festivities can be a great time to set fresh intentions or goals. Whether it’s a health goal, a work project or even learning a new skill, giving yourself something to look forward to can ease the transition and create a positive focus for the coming weeks. Seek professional help if needed: If the post-festive blues persist or start affecting your daily functioning, consider speaking to a therapist or counsellor. Post-festive blues are a natural emotional response, but with awareness and some simple steps, one can navigate through this smoothly and maintain well-being. Tips for post-festival body detox Mental health might be affected after the festive season, and so might physical health. Due to constant activity, travelling, and eating sweets and fried foods, your body may get exhausted and need a detox. Khushboo Jain Tibrewala, nutritionist, diabetes educator and founder of The Health Pantry, explains, “The festive season is synonymous with sugar, fried and retried foods, refined oils, refined flours and random food colour, etc., that come in our diet by way of the foods we eat. For a lot of homes, there might also be more alcohol consumption.” “All of this puts a lot of pressure on your liver, which is the housekeeping unit of your body. These foods also impact digestion. Just one day of bad food can impact your gut microbiome. Add to that the fact that we tend to eat and sleep at odd hours during festivals. All of these make a week-long detox essential post-festive season,” she adds. Jain Tibrewala shares the following nutrition and lifestyle tips for body detox after the festive season: The best way to support the detoxification system of your body is fasting. Eat your last meal by sunset and then break the fast by 11-12 the next day. Have a glass of ginger, mint, coriander, celery, black pepper and ACV juice on an empty stomach. Add at least 1 fistful of fresh herbs of different types in each meal. Have a cup of Cumin Coriander Fennel Tea post-lunch. Boil 1/2 tsp each of the cumin, coriander and fennel seeds in 300 ml water for 4-5 minutes. Strain and drink. Stay off wheat completely. Sleep for 1 hour extra. Also Read: Ganesh Chaturthi 2024: Replace sugar with honey, churma for sattu, and other sweet hacks
16 September,2024 06:34 PM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainA diet low in carbohydrates could be beneficial for children and young adults with Type 1 diabetes, claimed a study. People suffering from Type 1 diabetes -- an autoimmune disease that results in the loss of beta cell mass -- have insulin deficiency and hence need lifelong insulin therapy. Researchers from Charles University and Motol University Hospital in the Czech Republic showed that a short-term low-carbohydrate diet led to an improvement in glycemic parameters. To achieve optimal metabolic control, T1D requires frequent insulin administration and daily control of carbohydrate intake and physical activity. While the targets are often missed, especially in children and adolescents, dietary interventions can be a promising way to achieve the goal, said the team. A low carbohydrate diet (LCD) is defined by American Diabetes Association (ADA) for adults as more than 130 grams of carbohydrates per day or less than 26 per cent of daily recommended energy intake from carbohydrates. The study comes amidst clinical guidelines from the International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (ISPAD) recommending against low carb diet for children and adolescents with or at risk for developing diabetes. Despite ISPAD’s recommendation of 45-50 per cent of daily energy intake from carbohydrates for children and young people with type 1 diabetes, there is growing evidence that carbohydrate reduction is a popular strategy, the team said. For the study, they investigated whether a short period of tightly controlled low-carbohydrate diet leads to a higher time in range without increasing the associated risks in children and young people with diabetes. They included 35 children and young people with type 1 diabetes in a randomised controlled cross-over study. The interventions were five and five weeks of ready-made food box deliveries of isocaloric diets in random order: either a low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) or recommended carbohydrate diet (RCD). Children are known to be at risk of hypoglycemia -- a condition when blood sugar levels drop too low -- with a low-carb diet. However, the study results published in the journal Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice showed that short-term LCD led to an improvement of glycemic parameters without increasing time in hypoglycemia. It did not “disturb the lipid profile or negatively affect the quality of life of children and young people with diabetes”, said 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.
16 September,2024 12:08 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSWhile the importance of exercise in stroke rehabilitation cannot be overstated, experts on Saturday affirmed that short bursts of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) could be more effective than continuous moderate physical exercise. When a stroke occurs, blood flow to the brain is disrupted, leading to damage that can impact physical and cognitive functions. Exercise plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation process by promoting neuroplasticity, where the brain reorganises itself to recover lost functions. HIIT involves repeated one-minute bursts of intense exercise followed by short recovery periods. Use of a stationary bike, treadmill, bodyweight, kettlebell, dumbbells, or jumping rope are some examples of HIIT workouts. “HIIT represents a paradigm shift in rehabilitation, particularly for stroke recovery,” Dr Vikram Huded, HOD and director and Clinical Lead, Interventional Neurology, Narayana Health City. “Unlike traditional continuous moderate exercise, HIIT enhances cardiovascular health more efficiently by pushing the body to adapt to short, intense bursts of activity,” added Dr Raghvendra Ramdasi, consultant neurosurgeon, Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai. Several studies have shown that exercising after a stroke offers several health benefits, including reduced risk of stroke recurrence and boosted overall recovery. A recent research, published in the journal Stroke, showed that one-minute bursts of high-intensity interval training over 19 minutes were more effective than traditional moderate exercise for improving the body’s aerobic fitness after a stroke. Evidence suggests that HIIT can accelerate cardiovascular recovery and improve overall physical endurance more effectively than conventional methods. Ramdasi said the method not only boosts heart and lung capacity but also improves circulation, which is vital for brain recovery. However, HIIT may not be suitable for everyone, said the experts. “Patients with severe cardiovascular conditions or those who are not yet physically stable post-stroke should avoid this form of exercise until they have regained a certain level of baseline fitness,” Huded said. Ramdasi said patients who have regained some mobility and are medically stable benefit most from HIIT. The experts also urged stroke patients to perform “any exercise regimen, particularly HIIT, according to an individual's abilities and under supervision of an expert to avoid potential risks” They also advised to begin with lower intensity and gradually increase as tolerance improves. 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.
16 September,2024 11:59 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSLove to binge on savoury snacks, ready meals, and sugar or artificially-sweetened beverages? Beware, every 10 per cent intake of these ultra-processed foods (UPF) may raise your risk of type 2 diabetes by 17 per cent, according to a study published in The Lancet Regional Health-Europe on Monday. Importantly, the study showed that the risk can be lowered by consuming less-processed foods instead, said researchers from the University College London (UCL), University of Cambridge, and Imperial College London. To investigate the relationship between the degree of food processing and diabetes risk the team included 311,892 individuals from eight European countries in the study. They were followed over 10.9 years on average, during which time 14,236 people developed diabetes. In the top 25 per cent of UPF consumers, where UPF made up 23.5 per cent of their total diet, sweetened beverages alone accounted for nearly 40 per cent of their UPF intake and 9 per cent of their diet overall. On the other hand, substituting 10 per cent of UPF in the diet with 10 per cent of minimally processed food such as eggs, milk, and fruit or processed culinary ingredients such as salt, butter, and oil reduced diabetes risk by 14 per cent. Further, replacing 10 per cent of UPF in the diet with 10 per cent of processed foods (PF) like tinned fish, beer and cheese reduced diabetes risk by 18 per cent. PF also includes salted nuts, artisanal breads, and preserved fruits and vegetables. The findings add to the growing body of research that links consumption of UPF with a higher risk of certain chronic diseases including obesity, cardiometabolic diseases, and some cancers, said the team. Also Read: Eating junk food regularly can make you nutrient deficient, say experts 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
16 September,2024 11:46 AM IST | Mumbai | IANS
The rapid spread of a new strain of mpox, formerly called monkeypox, triggered the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare it a ‘public health emergency of international concern’ in August. The viral disease, which has mainly affected Africa, has also been reported in other countries. India reported its first mpox case last week, although it was declared an isolated case with no link to the new strain of the virus. Mpox is a zoonotic disease that can spread from animals like monkeys to humans. Similarly, other zoonotic diseases have also affected public health in recent times. Nipah, Zika and Chandipura viruses, which wreaked havoc in India and other parts of the world in the past few months, can all spread from animals to humans. Cases of avian influenza (bird flu) have also been reported in humans. Given the severe health concern zoonotic diseases pose, mid-day.com speaks to Dr. Rituja Ugalmugle, Internal Medicine, Wockhardt Hospitals, and Dr. Disha Padalkar, Consultant Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, Pune, who decode why infections are spreading from animals to humans, the possible implications of this trend and steps that can be taken to prevent this public health concern. What are zoonotic diseases? Ugalmugle: Zoonotic diseases are infections caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites that spread between animals and humans. They can result from direct contact, through contaminated food or water or via vectors like mosquitoes. Common examples include rabies, avian influenza (bird flu) and Covid-19. Padalkar: As per WHO, zoonotic disease is any infection that is naturally transmissible from vertebrate animals to humans. How do viruses transmit from animals to humans? Ugalmugle: Viruses transmit from animals to humans through direct contact with infected animals, consumption of contaminated animal products or exposure to vectors like ticks or mosquitoes. Sometimes, viruses mutate to infect humans, as seen with SARS, MERS and Covid-19, enabling human-to-human transmission. Padalkar: Viruses can transmit from animal to humans by direct, indirect contact or through insect vectors. Direct contact can occur through an infected animal’s bodily fluids such as blood, saliva, urine etc. An example is rabies infection. Indirect contact can occur by touching contaminated soil or feed and then touching your face, mouth or eyes. Viruses are also transmitted to humans through insect bites after the insect has fed on an infected animal. Why have there been rising instances of zoonotic diseases in recent times, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic? Ugalmugle: The rise in zoonotic diseases post-COVID-19 may be due to increased human-animal interactions, habitat destruction and intensive farming practices. Globalisation and climate change also contribute, creating environments where pathogens can jump between species more easily and spread more rapidly. Padalkar: Emerging infectious diseases are diseases that have newly appeared in a population or have existed but are rapidly increasing in incidence. As per various studies, 60-70 per cent of them are zoonotic diseases. These are slowly increasing in number in the last half-century. After COVID-19, these are being reported and getting attention. A new outbreak of zoonotic diseases continues to occur as the human-animal interface grows. Destruction of animal habitats and human population sprawl increases contact between human and wild animals. Studies have shown a rise in the incidence of these diseases, particularly in tropical, bio-diverse areas. Also Read: Mpox: Mumbai doctors highlight why the viral disease is deadly Does climate change play a role in the spread of zoonotic diseases? Ugalmugle: Yes, climate change influences the spread of zoonotic diseases by altering animal migration patterns, increasing vector populations (e.g., mosquitoes) and disrupting ecosystems. Warmer temperatures can extend the range of disease-carrying insects and force wildlife into closer contact with humans, increasing transmission risks. Padalkar: The availability of suitable vectors is a precondition for the emergence of new zoonotic diseases. Climate change has catastrophic effects on human, animal and environmental ecosystems. It can also result in human socio-demographics and migration. The complex interaction between climate change and ecosystem disturbance along with exposure to vector insects or wild animals results in the emergence of zoonotic diseases. What are the possible implications of this trend? Ugalmugle: The rise in zoonotic diseases threatens global public health, leading to new pandemics, overwhelming healthcare systems and economic strain. In the long term, frequent outbreaks may weaken immune systems, increase antibiotic resistance and create a need for rapid medical advancements to combat emerging diseases. Padalkar: Emerging zoonotic infectious diseases affect human health in different ways. These long-term outcomes include the pandemic (Covid-19), recurring outbreaks (Ebola virus disease), neurological effects (Nipah virus can cause neurological effects in survivors) and sometimes it might result in antibiotic resistance. On a large scale, they can cause economic losses and public health burdens. Do zoonotic diseases affect children differently? Padalkar: Children have immature immune systems. Hence, sometimes zoonotic diseases can affect them differently. They have a higher risk of contracting disease. The severity of the diseases may also vary in children. For example, the Covid-19 infection was not that severe in children as compared to the adult population. In contrast, the recent outbreak of Chandipura virus infection in 2024 in the western and central parts of India affected children under 15 years with death in 33 per cent of infected children. Also Read: Chandipura virus: Know all about the infection that has claimed children's lives in Gujarat How can one contain or prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases? Ugalmugle: Preventing zoonotic disease spread involves reducing human-wildlife contact, ensuring proper sanitation in livestock practices and controlling vector populations. Public education, vaccinations, safe food handling and maintaining healthy ecosystems are essential measures. Monitoring wildlife health and early detection systems can help mitigate outbreaks. Padalkar: Zoonosis involves the interaction of humans, animals and the environment. Hence multi-sectoral measures are necessary to ensure effective control. The following precautions are required to prevent this. • Surveillance is crucial to prevent and control zoonotic diseases. Identification of “hot-spot areas” and monitoring is necessary. All potential sources such as exotic animals and birds need to be subjected to surveillance. • There’s a need for mass campaigning to increase public awareness about such diseases. • Ensure safe food production of animal origin. • Some zoonoses spread through vectors like mosquitoes, ticks and lice. Hence, successful vector control strategies are necessary. • Ensure safe infectious disease testing laboratories to avoid the accidental spread of zoonotic diseases. Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional medical advice.
16 September,2024 11:24 AM IST | Mumbai | Raaina JainADVERTISEMENT
