In a remarkable medical feat, a Mumbai Central-based hospital has successfully treated a rare and critical case of aluminium phosphide poisoning, which has an almost 100 per cent fatality rate. A 16-year-old boy, Neev Jain, along with his parents, were exposed to toxic fumes after home pesticide treatment. Due to severe inhalation, Neev's condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to multi-organ failure. However, with the prompt intervention of a multidisciplinary medical team at Wockhardt Hospital Mumbai Central, he was stabilised using advanced life support systems. The Jain family unknowingly inhaled Aluminium Phosphide fumes the morning after pest control was conducted in their home. Neev, who had been unwell for a few days before exposure, suffered the most. The boy's heart’s pumping capacity dropped to a critical 5-10 per cent, and his blood pressure was not recordable. Excessive acid buildup in his body further worsened his condition, while his kidneys, lungs, and liver also started failing. Recognising the urgency, the medical team at the hospital swiftly put Neev on ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) and IABP (Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump)—advanced life support systems that aid the heart and lungs. The boy's kidneys failed, requiring CRRT (Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy), a specialised dialysis treatment. After 15 days of continuous life support, Neev’s heart started recovering, and doctors were able to gradually wean him off ECMO and IABP. The lungs and liver have fully healed, and his kidneys are recovering without the need for further dialysis. Jain's father also suffered severe cardiac complications, with his heart’s pumping capacity dropping to 20 per cent. However, with timely intervention, he stabilised and was discharged after 6-7 days, with his heart function now normal. The boy's mother experienced only mild symptoms with minimal heart involvement. Dr Yogesh Jain, consultant physician at the hospital highlighted the need for public awareness: "People must be educated about the risks associated with home pesticide treatments. Poisoning from Aluminium Phosphide can be fatal, and quick access to advanced medical care can be the difference between life and death.” Dr Charudatt Vaity, director – critical care at the hospital emphasised the severity of the case, stating, "Aluminium Phosphide poisoning is extremely fatal, and survival is rare. The patient was in cardiogenic shock with multi-organ failure, but with rapid ECMO and IABP support, along with a dedicated critical care approach, we were able to pull him through. This case highlights the significance of quick medical intervention and multidisciplinary teamwork." Dr Nikesh Jain, consultant interventional cardiologist, at the hospital said, "Neev was in a life-threatening cardiac condition, with his heart’s pumping at just 5-10 per cent. We implemented ECMO and IABP support at the right time, which played a crucial role in his survival. His recovery has been nothing short of extraordinary." Part of the same team, Dr Chandan Chaudhari, consultant nephrologist shared insights on kidney involvement, "The patient’s kidneys had completely shut down, requiring CRRT, a highly specialised form of dialysis. Over time, with aggressive treatment and support, his kidneys have started recovering with good urine output without need of diuretics and not required dialysis for more than one week."
17 February,2025 07:40 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentExposure to pollution from car brake wear can prove to be more harmful to the lungs than diesel exhaust, according to a study. The study, led by researchers from the University of Southampton in the UK, emphasised that focusing on particulate matter (PM) exhaust emissions alone may be inadequate to mitigate the health effects of vehicle-derived pollution. Airborne PM2.5 is known to reach the alveolar regions of the lungs and is associated with more than 4 million premature deaths per year worldwide. While road traffic -- diesel exhaust emissions -- is a major source of PM in urban environments, non-exhaust emissions, especially from brake wear, represent an increasing component of traffic-related PM, about which there is a paucity of information. The researchers argued that car brake wear is also not on the target list in exhaust emission reduction measures. In the paper, published in the journal Particle and Fibre Toxicology, the team found that brake-wear particulate matter from copper-enriched non-asbestos organic, and ceramic brake pads induced “the greatest oxidative stress, inflammation” on lungs. It also affected a pathway implicated in diseases associated with air pollution exposure, including cancer, and pulmonary fibrosis, as well as causing perturbation of metabolism. “We demonstrate here that brake-wear PM may perturb cellular homeostasis more than diesel exhaust PM. Our findings demonstrate the potential differences in effects, not only for non-exhaust vs exhaust PM but also amongst different sources of non-exhaust PM,” said James G. H. Parkin, School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton. The study demonstrated that copper-enriched brake-wear PM has a greater detrimental effect than diesel exhaust PM. The perturbations caused by copper-enriched PM have the potential to contribute to the development and progression of a range of diseases, negatively impacting healthy living and lifespan. “Our results suggest that current legislation, which focuses on PM exhaust emissions, may be inadequate to mitigate the health effects of vehicle-derived PM, and that regulations also need to target not only non-exhaust PM emissions but also specific components of PM,” Parkin 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.
17 February,2025 07:04 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSWhile the discourse around gender equality is gaining momentum, mental health crises among men and boys are being ignored, according to a UK-based psychology expert. In his latest book, Benjamin Hine, professor of Applied Psychology at the University of West London (UWL), UK, argued that men struggle to negotiate harmful notions of masculinity and are not included in conversations around gender. Hine stated that body image, fatherhood, and sexual relationships are the key reasons stressing out men and boys. He called for addressing their concerns without framing them as “the problem”. The book also explored a range of other issues like education, gaming addiction, and homelessness -- most of these issues are often ignored because men are too readily seen as ‘the problem’ rather than ‘having problems’, Hine said. An urgent shift in thinking is needed to help men who struggle, said the professor while stressing the need to boost cultural and gender inclusivity, evidence-based approaches, and early intervention to improve gender equality. “In today's rapidly shifting societal landscape, where the discourse around gender equality has gained significant momentum, the unique set of challenges faced by men and boys frequently goes unnoticed or is overshadowed,” Hine said. “Men, like all individuals, are complex human beings with their own unique struggles, vulnerabilities, and challenges.” Crucially, inclusive, intersectional approaches for men and boys of all backgrounds, including across ethnic, religious, and gender/sexual identities, should be part of natural thinking for all organisations, including an immediate priority on men’s mental health and high suicide rate, said Hine. Hine noted that making young men feel ‘excluded or alienated’ from gender discussions, which often justifiably focus on critical issues facing ‘women and marginalised groups’, “can leave men feeling resentful and lead to them feeling lonely, alienated, depressed, and engaging with extreme views, especially when they seek solace in toxic online spaces”. Part of the problem, he argues, is that issues said to affect women and those that impact men have often been rigidly separated when they are in fact closely linked, the Professor said. The book urges the public, policymakers, practitioners, and other key stakeholders to explore and support policies and practices that promote male wellbeing. 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 February,2025 06:57 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSAlcohol-related cancers are a growing concern in India, said health experts on Monday, even as the World Health Organization (WHO) recently called for prominent health warning labels on alcoholic beverages. The WHO defines alcohol as a toxic, psychoactive, and dependence-producing substance that has been, decades ago, classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Group 1 carcinogen is the highest risk group, which also includes asbestos, radiation, and tobacco. “Alcohol consumption increases the risk of cancer, and more than 20 types of cancers can be attributed to consumption of alcohol,” Dr. (Prof) Puneet Garg, Vascular Interventional Radiologist and Endovascular Surgeon, Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, told IANS. The most common cancers linked to alcohol are of mouth, throat, foodpipe, stomach, colon, rectum, and pancreas. It also causes cancers of the breast in women and prostate in males. “In India, alcohol-related cancers are a growing concern. Alcohol metabolises into acetaldehyde -- a toxic compound that can damage DNA and proteins -- leading to mutations that initiate cancer development. In addition, alcohol can impair the body's ability to absorb essential nutrients like folate and vitamins A, C, D, and E, which are vital for maintaining healthy cells and preventing cancer,” Dr Taraprasad Tripathy, Assistant Professor at All India Institute of Medical Sciences Bhubaneswar, Odisha, told IANS. Alcohol is a well-established carcinogen that is contributing significantly to the global burden of the deadly disease. Nearly 4 per cent of cancers diagnosed worldwide can be attributed to alcohol consumption, according to the WHO. A recent study in the journal Lancet estimates that alcohol consumption was responsible for approximately 62,100 new cancer cases in the India 2020. Recently, US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy also recommended including cancer warnings on alcoholic beverages to curb the rising cancers of the breast, liver, and colon. The warning can empower consumers to make informed decisions, raise awareness of alcohol-attributable health risks. The experts noted that chronic alcohol consumption also weakens the immune system, reducing its capacity to identify and destroy cancerous cells. Tripathy explained that alcohol consumption is linked to several types of cancers, each presenting distinct early warning signs. Persistent mouth sores, unexplained bleeding, a lump or thickening in the cheek, difficulty swallowing, or a sore throat that doesn't heal can indicate oral and pharyngeal cancer. In the case of oesophageal cancer, patients are likely to face difficulty swallowing, chest discomfort, unintended weight loss, chronic cough, or hoarseness, while those with liver cancer can experience abdominal swelling, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, and fatigue. A lump in the breast or underarm, changes in breast shape or size, dimpling of the skin, or nipple discharge can signal breast cancer. The experts stressed the need for early detection of cancer to improve outcomes. With advanced treatments currently available, early detection can improve the chances of cure and survival. But, “if the disease is detected late and ignored then these cancers spread to other parts of the body known as metastasis. These metastases are difficult to remove by surgery and chemotherapy,” Garg said. He added that in advanced stages, these cancers cells also overwhelm the immune system of the body and damage the organs like brain, liver, heart, kidneys, and lungs which are important for the human body to function. The experts also suggested the need for regular screenings, especially for high-risk individuals, and prompt medical attention to unusual symptoms are crucial. “Reducing alcohol consumption is a proactive measure to lower the risk of developing these cancers. The WHO emphasises that no amount of alcohol consumption is safe, as even moderate intake increases cancer risk,” Tripathy said. Also Read: Eating veggies may reduce risk of liver cancer by 65 per cent, finds 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 February,2025 02:05 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSFertility health is often influenced by multiple factors, including genetics, medical conditions, environmental factors and lifestyle choices. While some of these issues are beyond one's control, making conscious lifestyle changes might assist create a more suitable atmosphere for conception. While it is not definite that lifestyle changes would result in increased fertility, specific actions and practices can help both men and women's reproductive health. In a conversation with mid-day.com, Dr Soumya Shetty, Fertility Specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Chembur, Mumbai, highlights some lifestyle practices that can improve fertility health. Nutrition What you consume has an impact on your overall reproductive health. “A diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, lean proteins and whole grains can provide essential nutrients for hormone balance. According to some studies, foods heavy in refined sugar and trans fats may impair reproductive function. Consuming food high in folate, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids may be beneficial, as these nutrients are usually linked to hormone regulation and egg or sperm quality,” she informs. Weight management Maintaining a healthy weight aids with fertility health. Dr Shetty explains, “Both underweight and overweight adults may experience hormonal changes that impact ovulation and sperm production. According to some studies, excess body fat may increase estrogen levels, interfering with reproductive processes. On the other hand, being underweight might lead to irregular menstrual cycles and ovulatory problems. Striving for a weight range that is consistent with one's general health may help with fertility-related functions.” Exercise According to Dr Shetty, exercising regularly has a positive effect on reproductive health. Moderate exercise helps to balance hormone levels, increase circulation and promote general health. However, extreme or high-intensity workouts may affect menstrual cycle or sperm production. Striking a balance between remaining active and avoiding overexertion may be critical for reproductive health. Stress management and emotional wellness While one often pays attention to physical health, mental and emotional well-being is often overlooked when it comes to fertility issues. “Chronic stress has been linked to hormone imbalances, which can impact fertility. Elevated stress levels can affect ovulation and sperm health. While stress is a natural part of life, using relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga or deep breathing can help control its effects on the body. Individuals struggling with fertility concerns do benefit from obtaining professional help or counselling,” the fertility specialist states. Sleep pattern Sleep patterns also have an impact on reproductive health. Dr Shetty informs, “Poor sleep quality or inconsistent sleep schedules can impact hormone regulation, particularly those that control ovulation and sperm production.” Getting seven to nine hours of good sleep every night benefits overall health. Environmental factors Certain environmental contaminants and substances may be harmful to reproductive health. “Some plastics, pesticides and personal care products include endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), which have been studied for their potential impact on hormone balance. Reducing exposure to such substances may improve overall reproductive function. Furthermore, limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding tobacco use may have a positive influence because these substances are usually linked to diminished reproductive potential,” she states. While lifestyle modifications alone may not result in increased fertility, they do contribute to a healthy reproductive system, and overall well-being. Anyone experiencing reproductive/fertility should consult a fertility specialist for customised guidance. Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Kindly consult a qualified medical expert for personalised guidance. Also Read: How lifestyle and environmental factors affect male fertility
17 February,2025 01:40 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentEating vegetables can help reduce the risk of liver cancer by 65 per cent, according to a study. The study, led by researchers from the INSERM, the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research, focused on patients diagnosed with cirrhosis -- scarring (fibrosis) of the liver caused by long-term liver damage. They examined the benefits of eating vegetables and or fruits among these patients Of the 179 patients analysed, 20 were diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer). The team found that a total of 42.5 per cent of patients with cirrhosis had insufficient fruit and/or vegetable consumption. “A 65 per cent reduction in the incidence (new cases) of liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) was observed in patients diagnosed with cirrhosis consuming more than 240 gram per day of vegetables,” the researchers said. The researchers, however, found no evidence of an association between fruit consumption and hepatocellular carcinoma. The team said that the association between fruit and vegetable consumption and the risk of HCC is poorly documented in the population of cirrhotic patients. However, “such knowledge is crucial for adapting HCC prevention messages,” they noted, in the paper published in the journal JHEP Reports. Liver cancer is the sixth most frequent cancer worldwide, mainly represented by HCC, accounting for about 85-90 per cent. HCC occurs when a tumour grows on the liver. HCC most commonly occurs in those with chronic liver disease especially those with cirrhosis or fibrosis, which occur in the setting of chronic liver injury and inflammation. Main causes of disease of underlying chronic liver disease are alcohol and viral hepatitis, while it also includes overweight and obesity, consumption of foods contaminated with aflatoxins (that is, toxins produced by moulds). The researchers called for larger studies “to assess the benefits of fruit regarding the risk of HCC”, and to provide evidence for promoting fruit and vegetable consumption in patients with liver cirrhosis. 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 February,2025 11:45 AM IST | Mumbai | IANSUnion Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Sunday urged the youngsters of the country to use cycles as a commuting option whenever possible to remain healthy and promote a better environment. Mandaviya led Fit India Movement's flagship programme, Sundays on Cycle, here this morning with an aim to create awareness among the masses to lead a fit and healthy lifestyle through cycling, while also promoting a solution for pollution. "I urge everyone, especially younger people, to use cycles to commute whenever possible. This will not only make them healthy; it will improve the overall health of our environment," he said. The ride was flagged off from the Gateway of India with more than 500 cyclists constituting wellness experts, various cycle clubs and individual fitness enthusiasts joining from across the country. Besides riding for good health, the message of this week's Sundays on Cycle was #FightObesity. The cycling event was also held simultaneously at the Dhyanchand National Stadium in New Delhi with over 170 riders including Shivani Pawar, bronze medallist at 2024 Senior Asian Wrestling Championship and 2025 National Games gold medallist, joining along among others. The Sundays on Cycle initiative was started on December 17 last year and has already been hosted in over 3500 locations across India. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
16 February,2025 02:27 PM IST | Mumbai | PTIHeadaches can be experienced by people at different times of the day and in varying intensity. It is especially common at the end of a long or stressful day. While sometimes a headache can occur as a result of stress, at other times, it can signal a deeper issue. Mechanism of headaches The cause and impact of a headache often depends on its timing, which is guided by several factors. Dr Aakash Agrawal, Consultant Neurophysician, Manipal Hospital, Bhubaneswar, informs, “The timing of a headache is mostly guided by our internal clock, or circadian rhythm, and managed by the supra-chiasmatic nucleus in our brain. This is a shared rhythm that dictates when that kind of headache is most likely to happen.” “Tension-type headaches (TTH), for instance, tend to occur later in the day or evening, while migraines peak in the early morning. Another type, called cluster headaches, can be extraordinarily painful and usually strike around midnight during a headache bout, much like hypnic headaches that subsequently wake patients from sleep. These patterns are associated with the person’s circadian rhythm, similar to the timing of heart attacks or strokes,” he further explains. While the timing of a headache can signal its cause, it doesn’t always tell you how bad it is. “Headaches related to increased intracranial pressure (e.g., from tumors) tend to occur upon waking or at night. In contrast, low-pressure headaches, like those from a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, tend to get worse as the day goes on. Primary headaches, including migraines, can be affected by your lifestyle and may present later in the day, depending on the issue that triggers the problem, such as an afternoon nap or coffee in the evening,” states Dr Agrawal. Headache after a long day Several factors can cause headaches towards the end of the day. Dr Amrut S D, Associate Consultant Neurology, Manipal Hospital, Goa, explains, “They may be caused by stress, lack of water intake, excessive straining of the eyes or slouching. Tension headaches are the most common type of headaches arising from neck and scalp muscle contraction due to prolonged working and screen time.” Should one be concerned? One needs to consult a neurologist when headaches are associated with certain symptoms and signs. Doctors take several factors into consideration to properly diagnose and treat certain headache types. “The red flags like headaches associated with vomiting, blurring vision, impaired awareness, fever and double vision need urgent evaluation. Headaches in elderly patients (above 65 years of age), one-sided severe headaches, associated with loss of speech, weakness or balance issues many need urgent imaging,” says Dr Amrut. Prevention and management A headache without red flags can be managed using a combined approach. “Medications can be used for acute pain relief. However, drinking plenty of water, avoiding screen time, having regular meals, cutting extra sugar, salt, caffeine and getting good sleep with healthy lifestyle practices like morning walks for at least 30 minutes, meditation, yoga and breathing exercises can help,” advises Dr Amrut. Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Kindly consult a qualified medical expert for personalised guidance.
16 February,2025 02:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentResearchers have found that the heart possesses "sweet taste" receptors, similar to those on our tongues, and stimulating these receptors with sweet substances can modulate the heartbeat. The discovery opens new avenues for understanding heart function and potentially for developing novel treatments for heart failure. The new research found that these receptors are not just present on heart muscle but also functional. When the researchers stimulated these receptors in both human and mouse heart cells using aspartame, a common artificial sweetener, they observed a significant increase in the force of heart muscle contraction and accelerated calcium handling – key processes for a healthy heartbeat. While taste receptors are traditionally associated with the tongue and our ability to perceive flavours, recent studies have shown that these receptors exist in other parts of the body, where they likely play different roles. This new study is the first to identify specific "sweet taste" receptors, known as TAS1R2 and TAS1R3, on the surface of heart muscle cells. “After you eat a meal, it's been shown that your heart rate and blood pressure actually are increasing,” said Micah Yoder, a graduate student in the lab of Jonathan Kirk at Loyola University Chicago. Previously, this was thought to be a neural axis that's being signaled. “But we're proposing a more direct consequence, where we have a spike in our blood sugar after eating a meal, and that's binding to these sweet taste receptors on the heart muscle cells, causing a difference in the heartbeat,” he added. Intriguingly, the researchers also found that these receptors are more abundant in the hearts of patients with heart failure, suggesting a possible link to disease. Further investigation revealed that stimulating the receptors triggers a cascade of molecular events within the heart cells, involving key proteins that control calcium flow and muscle contraction. Additionally, their research may explain why high consumption of artificially sweetened beverages is linked to arrhythmogenesis, or an irregular heartbeat. Not only are these sweet taste receptors particularly stimulated by artificial sweeteners like aspartame, overstimulation of these sweet taste receptors lead to a an increase in arrhythmic like behaviour in the heart cells, researchers found. However, further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of stimulating these receptors in the heart as well as how these receptors might be targeted to strengthen the heart in the case of heart failure. The work was set to be presented at the 69th Biophysical Society Annual Meeting in Los Angeles. The Biophysical Society has been established to lead development and dissemination of knowledge in biophysics. 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 February,2025 11:52 AM IST | Mumbai | IANSA study has found that hormonal contraceptives are related with a higher risk of stroke and heart attack. However, researchers from the University of Copenhagen said that while the overall risk remains low, clinicians should consider the potential risks before prescribing them. Following over 20 lakh women in Denmark for more than 10 years, the team found that the most commonly used hormonal contraceptive -- the combined oestrogen-progestin pill -- was associated with double the risk of ischaemic stroke and heart attack. The results translated to one extra stroke for every 4,760 women using the combined pill for one year, and one extra heart attack for every 10,000 women per year of use, the researchers said. They stressed that even though the risk remains low, given the widespread use and seriousness of the conditions, clinicians should consider the potential risks when prescribing hormonal contraceptives. "Use of contemporary oestrogen-progestin and progestin-only contraceptives was associated with an increased risk of ischaemic stroke and, in some cases, myocardial infarction," the authors wrote in the study published in the British Medical Journal. They said that previous studies have found an increased risk of cardiovascular events due to using hormonal contraceptives, but the findings have been inconsistent and outdated. The study also found that non-oral contraceptives, such as the vaginal ring and patch, had higher associated risks. The vaginal ring increased ischaemic stroke risk 2.4-fold and heart attack risk 3.8-fold, while the patch increased ischaemic stroke risk 3.4-fold, the team said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
15 February,2025 09:18 AM IST | New Delhi | PTIJumping workouts may be key to thwart the risk of cartilage damage and boost bone strength in astronauts during long space missions, claimed an animal study on Thursday. The findings, although in mice, comes even as Indian-origin NASA astronaut Sunita Williams is stranded in space since June last year. Williams along with colleague Butch Willmore are stuck in space due to technical problems with Boeing's Starliner which took them to the International Space Station (ISS). Recent experiments by the European Space Agency (ESA) also showed evidence of cartilage degradation in astronauts who spend several months aboard the ISS. The reduced movement can lead to cartilage thinning and cellular clustering -- early indicators of arthritis. The new study, appearing in the journal npj Microgravity, showed that engaging in jumping exercises boosted knee cartilage in mice. Jump training thrice a week also led to thicker, healthier cartilage with normal cellular structure in the animals, said researchers from Johns Hopkins University, US. Healthy cartilage is essential for pain-free movement, as it cushions joints and decreases bone friction. Notably, cartilage damage heals slowly and does not regenerate as fast as other tissue. Prolonged periods of inactivity -- as expected during space travel -- can accelerate cartilage breakdown. This damage can also be accelerated by space radiation. “Since the next step in human exploration of space is going to Mars and spending long periods of time in permanent bases on the moon, cartilage damage is a really major issue that space agencies need to address despite how very poorly understood it is,” said Marco Chiaberge, an astrophysicist at Johns Hopkins University, the Space Telescope Science Institute, and the ESA. “The positive effect we saw in these mice is huge, and the magnitude of it was unexpected. They can basically make their cartilage thicker if they jump. Maybe astronauts could use similar training before their flight as a preventive measure,” he added. In the study, a nine-week programme of reduced movement in mice led to a 14 per cent reduction in cartilage thickness. However, those in the jump-training group had a 26 per cent increase compared to the control group. In addition, the jumping mice had 110 per cent thicker cartilage than the reduced activity group. Jumping also enhanced bone strength by 15 per cent. While more research is needed to confirm whether humans would enjoy the same benefits, the findings offer promising information to protect cartilage and bone structure, said the researchers.
14 February,2025 06:13 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSADVERTISEMENT
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