Medical specialists have warned residents of Delhi-NCR about a severe health crisis triggered by the high air pollution in the region. Dr Arvind Kumar, Thoracic (Chest) Surgeon & Lung Health Specialist, Medanta Hospital, said that hospitals are seeing a spike in cases related to effect of pollution The NCR Region faces poor air quality with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 345 at 8 am. on Monday, placing the national capital firmly in the 'very poor' category. While talking to ANI, Dr Arvind Kumar described how hospitals are overwhelmed with respiratory cases, especially among children, due to air pollution. It includes symptoms like cough, cold, fever and difficulty breathing. "There are patients all around. Everywhere, children are being brought to hospitals coughing, sneezing, having a runny nose, breathing fast, and having a fever. We have patients who are coming back with a cough or pneumonia. There is a huge spike in the number of chest cases. It's all the doctors across the city," said Dr Arvind Kumar. While addressing the result of growing concerns among the national capital's population due to air pollution, the Chest Surgeon said that people have resorted to the usage of Nebulisers, which help patients inhale medicine directly into their lungs. "The most common thing being used today is the nebuliser. Many of my friends have bought the machine. It is actually wrong because self-administration of medicine can be harmful. Once you are breathing in air with AQI of 700, there is no way that you can avoid these diseases," said Arvind Kumar. The Thoracic (Chest) Surgeon & Lung Health Specialist of Medanta Hospital advises people to "stay indoors" and avoid going to "crowded areas" to keep themselves safe from the high air pollution. "Stay indoors as much as you can. Avoid going to crowded areas. Take medicines regularly. Keep yourself well hydrated. Avoid fatty foods. If you develop redness or itchiness in the eyes, you can put ice-cold water," added Dr Arvind Kumar. Meanwhile, the air quality in the national capital plunged into the 'severe' category on Sunday, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 391 at 7 am, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Several parts of the city registered alarming pollution levels with AQI readings crossing the 400-mark. As per CPCB data, Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 412, Alipur reported 415, and Bawana registered the highest level at 436. Chandni Chowk recorded an AQI of 409, while RK Puram and Patparganj logged 422 and 425, respectively. Sonia Vihar also recorded a 'severe' AQI of 415, indicating hazardous air conditions across the city. Since Diwali, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) has been reeling under the 'poor' and 'very poor' categories in several areas, even as Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) remains in effect. The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has already announced the doubling of parking fees across the national capital after the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage II was invoked due to deteriorating air quality. According to CPCB, an AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor', and 401-500 'severe'. 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 November,2025 02:38 PM IST | Gurugram (Haryana) | ANICheeseburgers are extremely mouthwatering and that is what makes them tempt each and every one of us who loves cheese or burgers. While the classic cheeseburger has delicious ingredients that include two buns loaded with a ground beef patty, melted cheese, juicy tomatoes, lettuce, and onions, the vegetarian versions, have also become popular over time. However, Mumbai doctors say you may have to reconsider everything you love about the delicious version of the burger, for the sake of your health. Interestingly, the glorious burger enjoys many different days to celebrate the creation including International Burger Day May 28, National Burger Day on August 21, and most recently National Cheeseburger Day on September 18. While there are many different types, the latter is easily the most desirable, especially because of all the cheese that is added to the dish. Are cheeseburgers healthy? At a time when the focus on health is more than ever before, and ahead of the holiday season, which is usually associated with binge-eating, health experts serve a reminder. Suvarna Sawant, chief dietician and HoD, Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital in Mumbai shares, “Cheeseburgers, at least the way they are served traditionally, are not healthy. They are rich in calories, fats and low in fibre. Especially with the western influenced foods available today, if served with original ingredients such as refined-flour bun, high-fat patty, cheese, and salty sauces, such fast foods will only increase the risk of chronic diseases.” Fauziya Ansari, who is the dietitcian at Apollo Spectra Hospital in Tardeo, says cheeseburgers are loved by many, especially children but should be enjoyed occasionally. She explains, “Remember that eating them frequently can take a toll on the heart. Cheeseburgers are high in saturated fats, cholesterol, and sodium, which can increase the risk of heart disease and weight gain. So, don’t rely on cheeseburgers or other junk items that can impact the overall well-being.” In fact, she recommends enjoying them every eight to nine months and avoided as much as possible because they are loaded with saturated fats, calories, and sodium. If you are still not convinced, the city-based dietitian highlights the nutrition content of each cheeseburger. “A cheeseburger contains around 300–600 calories, with 15–30 grams of fat, 20–40 grams of carbohydrates, and 15–30 grams of protein. It is jam-packed with sodium and has a lower number of vitamins and minerals, depending on the toppings used,” she shares. Easy tips to make cheeseburgers healthyAvoiding cheeseburgers is literally the best option to stay away from its effects on one’s health, according to both the dieticians, by simply controlling your cravings and choosing healthy options such as fresh fruits. However, if you still want your fix of cheeseburgers, then they suggest using some quick alternatives. Ansari further adds, “There is a common myth that the cheeseburger must be heavily spiced or greasy to suit the Indian palate. However, it is not true at all. Fresh ingredients and moderate seasoning can make them tasty and nutritious.” So, how can cheeseburgers be made healthier? She says, “Using millet veggie burger, sweet potato burger, paneer, or a chana burger can be a good option. Focus on grilled or baked cooking methods, use whole grain buns, and add a lot of fresh vegetables and healthy fats instead of those calorie-laden sauces and cheese. Use roasted or steamed veggies as the filling. Use lettuce instead of burger buns to wrap your burger and all the fixings.” Using healthy and indigenous ingredients, especially for children, explains Sawant can help a lot because it can keep the appearance of the burger intact but use local seasonal produce. She suggests, “The buns can be made of whole-wheat or multigrain. Replacing polished or refined cereals with whole grains introduces fibre in the burger. Secondly, the patties need to be healthier by grilling the chicken tikka on tawa with limited oil or for vegetarians, you can make the patties with paneer, tofu, rajma-galouti, chana-masala, or mixed-dal. You can add finely chopped seasonal vegetables like carrot, beetroot, spinach for fibre and micronutrients in them. Use fresh vegetables like onion, tomato, lettuce to be added with the patty. For protein intake, you can add pulses.”Lastly, the city-based dietitian says skip sugary sauces and add chutney and dip made from coriander-mint-lemon, hung-curd dip, or tomato-onion instead.
09 November,2025 06:43 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento Pinto"We have discovered the secret of life," said American scientist James Watson in 1962, along with Maurice Wilkins and Francis Crick, as the trio shared the Physiology and Medicine Nobel Prize for the DNA's double helix structure discovery. Famous geneticist Watson, who died at 97 as confirmed by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in the US -- where he worked and researched for decades -- was associated with one of the greatest breakthroughs of the 20th century. Although DNA was discovered in 1869, it took scientists until 1943 to discover that it made up the genetic material in cells. To date, the structure of DNA remains a mystery. Watson died on Thursday, November 6 (US time) after a brief illness, according to a statement from his former employer. “I think early on, I wanted to do something important with my life. I still want to think about science and really nothing else,” Watson was quoted as saying in CNN in 2013. Being driven by the desire to find the truth, that’s really my legacy. The truth, sometimes you don’t find it and it’s complicated, but what you always have is that if you can start with the truth, it’s helpful, he added. Born in the US state of Chicago in April 1928, he won a scholarship to study at the University of Chicago at age 15. To pursue his research into DNA structures, he went to Cambridge University in England, where he met Crick. Together, they began constructing large-scale models of possible structures. As per reports, Watson took over the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in New York State in 1968. He is credited with turning it into one of the world's foremost scientific research institutions. However, his extra-ordinary work was marred owing to his “racist and homophobic remarks” against various groups of people, claiming they had genetic differences. The remarks led to him losing some of his honorary titles. Watson also made headlines when he sold his Nobel Prize in 2014 for $4.76 million at auction. Watson told CNN in 2013: “DNA was my only gold rush. I regarded DNA as worth a gold rush.” 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 November,2025 01:33 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSIndia had the second-highest number of people with chronic kidney disease in 2023 at 138 million, following China at 152 million, according to a global study published in The Lancet journal. The condition was the ninth-leading cause of death and claimed nearly 15 lakh lives globally the same year, researchers led by those at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington and other institutes in the US and UK found. The highest prevalence was seen in North Africa and the Middle East at 18 per cent each, nearly 16 per cent in South Asia and over 15 per cent in each of Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America and the Caribbean. Chronic kidney disease is a major contributor to heart disease and accounted for almost 12 per cent of cardiovascular deaths around the world in 2023. It ranked as the seventh leading cause for heart-related mortality, ahead of diabetes and obesity, the team said. Fourteen risk factors for chronic kidney disease were detailed in the study, with diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity driving the highest loss in healthy living. "Chronic kidney disease is both a major risk factor for other leading causes of health loss and a significant disease burden in its own right. Yet, it continues to receive far less policy attention than other non-communicable diseases, even as its impact grows fastest in regions already facing the greatest health inequities," senior author Theo Vos, professor emeritus at IHME, said. The researchers analysed data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2023 study, tracking trends in disease, injuries and health risk factors across 204 countries and territories from 1990 through 2023. The IHME coordinates the GBD study. Dietary factors, such as a low intake of fruits and vegetables and a high consumption of sodium, also made substantial contributions towards one's risk of chronic kidney disease, they said. The authors said that in 2023, most people with chronic kidney disease were in the early stages, highlighting the importance of screening programmes and strategies addressing disease risk. The measures can help reduce heart-related deaths due to kidney disease and delay one's requirement of replacement therapies, usually seen in advanced stages of the disease, the team said. Because access to kidney replacement therapies, including dialysis and transplantation, remains limited and uneven worldwide, a greater emphasis is needed on preventing disease progression and ensuring equitable care, they added. Improving access to diagnosis and affordable care, tackling key risk factors, and investing in strategies that prevent the disease from advancing will be essential to address the growing burden of chronic kidney disease on patients, families, and health systems worldwide, 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
08 November,2025 09:54 AM IST | New Delhi | PTIFor millions, the vibrant energy of Diwali and the festive season —the sudden roar of fireworks, the dazzling blaze of lights, non-stop festive music, and the whirl of intense socialising—can feel less like a celebration and more like a sensory ambush. This high-octane environment, while a source of joy for extroverts, often triggers extreme anxiety, exhaustion, and burnout for introverts and the socially anxious. Your nervous system is genuinely being taxed, not by a lack of spirit, but by sheer overload. This festive season don't just white-knuckle your way through the gatherings. Instead, mental health professionals offer therapeutic, evidence-based strategies designed to help you not just survive the dazzling chaos but actually find moments of genuine peace and potentially even enjoy the festival—all without sacrificing your most precious asset: your well-being. It's time to light up your life on your own terms. Understanding the overload: Introversion versus social anxietyDr. Ajit Dandekar, head of mental health at Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital in Mumbai, clarifies the key difference between preference and disorder when faced with Diwali stress. “A continuous, out-of-proportion fear of social gatherings with continuous, out of proportion fear, avoidance, and functional impairment around social situations it is identified as social anxiety disorder or SAD. Most individuals suffering from SAD fear they will do something humiliating like sweating, shaking or looking awkward and this drives avoidance and distress. It is also important to understand that if the festival stress is mainly preference-based that’s not a disorder,” explains Dandekar. For individuals with SAD, the best treatment is one-to-one Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. “CBT is a structured discussion or conversation therapy which mainly identifies and changes unhelpful thoughts and behaviours, to help the individuals feel and function better. However, you don’t need medical treatment if you’re just introverted, or mainly opt for calmer and personal, smaller groups and don’t experience social anxiety as such,” he notes. Such individuals should focus on:1. Visiting at quieter times.2. Opting for less crowded events.3. Choosing activities that can be done alone or with just close people. Physiological impact of sensory overloadDr Ravindra Agarwal, consultant, psychiatry at Manipal Hospital, Bhubaneswar, delves into the physiological strain of the festive environment, “The intensity of Diwali stimuli — bright lights and loud sounds, combined with constantly moving around — can overload the nervous system for introverts or those sensitive to sensory input. The brain’s sensory processing centres are taxed to groan under the strain of filtering out competing inputs, which contributes to fatigue and crossness.” He states that this is not merely preference but physiology, as introverts generally have a lower threshold for sensory stimulation. The result is a state of hyperarousal where even minor triggers can feel overwhelming. Advanced strategies for managing social anxiety Dandekar suggests two evidence-based strategies people might not have considered for addressing social anxiety:1. Video feedback to correct distorted self-imagery: Many with social anxiety imagine landing themselves in foolish or embarrassing situations. Showing them video feedback or showing real footage or events or them in such situations to compare feared images with reality can help. This often helps to correct misperceptions.2. Training to externalise attention: Major cause of social anxiety is attention to self and imagined flaws. One can learn to systematically externalise the same attention, to people, activities or the environment. Coming out of your head is the ideal way to abolish anxiety. This involves trying experiential exercises to understand how focused, safety-seeking behaviours—like avoiding eye contact or clutching an object like a phone—are often unhelpful, allowing you to drop such habits and move your attention outwards. Coping with loud noise: The firework factorFor someone who dreads the sudden, loud noise of fireworks, Agarwal recommends grounding techniques as the most effective in-the-moment coping mechanism. “One easy technique is the 5-4-3-2-1: Find five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell and one you can taste. It drags the mind back into the present and removes it from panic. Combine this with controlled breathing — inhale for a count of four, pause for a count of four and exhale for six,” he advises. Other tips include:1. Changing the way your space sounds: close your eyes and put on noise-cancelling headphones or turn on white noise.2. Moving to a spot that’s less noisy.3. Using anticipatory coping, such as scheduling quiet activities during the fireworks’ peak hours, which diminishes anxiety over time. Negotiating space and taking a breakWhen an immediate break is needed, Dandekar suggests a simple, non-confrontational way to step out of an overwhelming gathering, “If you experience social anxiety, it’s best to let someone in your close contact know about the same. Its same as having a confidant to whom you can turn to during periods of extreme anxiety to help you take a break from such situations.” He also suggests focusing attention on the external environment like lamp colours, rangoli patterns or distant sounds, rather than internal thoughts like ‘Did anyone react the way I reacted?’ Agarwal suggests utilising technology and quiet corners:1. A pair of noise-cancelling headphones can help mute the madness but keep you party to the festivities.2. At home, a quiet corner, such as a darkened room with calming smells or a meditation app, becomes the mental reset destination.3. For communicating the need for a break, Agarwal suggests a safe word or signal, “It can be something as simple as ‘pause,’ ‘breathe’ or ‘green tea’ — it doesn’t have to mean anything, so long as it’s memorable. Nonverbal actions, such as lightly touching a wrist or holding up a certain item, can also work, provided the plan is shared ahead of time with a support person.” For multi-generational homes, Dandekar stresses that home is supposed to be the safe space:1. Work with your parents and family to create conditions that can support your treatment.2. Create a quiet waiting or retreat area in your house which can serve as your own safe space. “The family should be aware of the same and avoid confrontation during the time of your ‘break.’3. The family should also be aware that the individual may ‘opt out,’ of certain larger groups. Long-term impact and pre-festival preparation“Constantly stepping outside comfort zone in high stimulation environment can be a recipe for chronic stress, emotional exhaustion and some slight to severe burnout. Over time, this can become anxiety about things related to social activities, or avoidance of these situations,” warns Agarwal about the long-term impact of consistently enduring extreme environments. He recommends aiming for balance, not avoidance, to link celebrations with positive, manageable experiences. To charge the social battery before the festival, Dandekar recommends:1. Psychoeducation: Learn about aspects of social anxiety such as self-focused attention, safety cues and negative predictions.2. Map triggers and predictions: Make a note of specific Diwali situations (like meeting relatives or being watched while eating), highlight your fears, and find ways of addressing such situations with a counsellor.3. Practice focusing attention externally: Practice shifting attention to your environment, rather than over scanning your internal sensations.
07 November,2025 10:56 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalHaving a neurodevelopmental condition such as autism and ADHD could be related with a nearly five times higher chance of dying before age 25, compared to those without, according to a study conducted in New Zealand. While relative risk between the two groups is high, it is important to remember that deaths in this group remain rare, said lead author Nick Bowden, from the University of Otago's department of paediatrics and child health. Symptoms of neurodevelopmental conditions can emerge in early childhood, impairing one's development in skills such as language, communication or behaviour. Social communication and behaviour is affected in autism, while ability to pay attention and focus on a task and emotion regulation is impaired in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Using the StatsNZ database, the researchers followed nearly nine lakh children born between 1995 and 2009 until 2019. About 40,000 (4.5 per cent) of the total had a neurodevelopmental condition, identified from hospital records, specialist mental health services, disability support databases, or through prescriptions. "Mortality risk was significantly higher (4.67 times) for youth with NDCs (neurodevelopmental conditions) compared with those without NDCs," the authors wrote in the study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Pediatrics. Death risk was also found to be higher among females with neurodevelopmental conditions, compared to females without. The risks also varied according to the condition -- doubling for children with ADHD and a more than eight-fold risk for learning and motor disorders, the researchers said. Causes for death also differed by condition, with medical causes posing the greatest risk -- about 12 times higher compared to those without neurodevelopmental conditions, the team found. The higher risk of deaths due to medical causes points to challenges faced in managing health problems that can occur simultaneously in the affected individuals -- such as respiratory, neurological, and gastrointestinal conditions, said co-author Dr Colette Muir, developmental paediatrician at Starship Child Health in Auckland. A study published in January this year in the British Journal of Psychiatry suggested a reduced life expectancy among adults who were diagnosed with ADHD in childhood. Researchers from the University College London estimated that men having the condition may live about seven years fewer than men in the general population and women nine years fewer. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
07 November,2025 04:30 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIThe 40s age group marks a pivotal and high-risk decade for women's breast health. Defined by significant hormonal shifts, demanding careers, and active family lives, this decade requires women to navigate confusing bodily changes while maintaining vigilance for subtle cancer signs. Medical guidance is moving beyond routine screening, emphasising the critical need for women to proactively understand their bodies, know their individual risk profiles, and advocate for personalised care. While October is observed as Breast Cancer Awareness Month every year, India also observes National Cancer Awareness Day on November 7, and there can never be enough awareness around any type including breast cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) underscores the seriousness of this challenge, noting that breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women worldwide. In 2022 alone, an estimated 2.3 million women were diagnosed globally, resulting in approximately 670,000 deaths. This highlights the importance of early detection and tailored screening protocols, particularly as women enter this high-risk decade. This comprehensive guide, featuring insights from leading surgical oncologists, delves into personal risk assessment, modern self-awareness techniques, the complexities of breast density, and the often-missed red flags—empowering women to take charge of their health during this critical phase.Assessing your personal risk profileAn accurate risk assessment is the starting point for personalised breast care. Dr Vidhi Shah, consultant, breast oncology surgeon at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, stresses the importance of evaluating key factors such as:1. Family history: Especially first-degree relatives with breast cancer.2. Reproductive factors: Age at first period and childbirth.3. Genetic predisposition: The presence of a genetic mutation like BRCA1 or BRCA2.Shah notes that while only 5 to 10 per cent of breast cancers are genetic, a confirmed mutation significantly impacts screening protocols. She explains, "If someone is BRCA-positive, screening typically starts earlier and follows a more intensive schedule—for example, alternating between a mammogram and an MRI every six months."Even without a confirmed mutation, a strong family history may warrant earlier screening. Shah advises, "If a close relative has tested positive or was diagnosed with breast cancer at an early age, screening should begin five years prior to the age at which the relative was diagnosed." For most women, screening starts at the age of 40, but for those with strong risk factors, it may begin at 35 years or earlier.The shift to breast self-awareness (BSA)The method for self-checking has evolved from rigid, monthly checks to a continuous state of Breast Self-Awareness (BSA). Shah clarifies the modern, medically recommended approach, "The modern approach to self-examination focuses on breast self-awareness rather than rigid, scheduled monthly checks. The goal is to understand what is 'normal' for your own body so that any new or unusual changes can be detected early."These unusual changes include new lumps, thickened areas, size/shape changes, skin dimpling, redness, or nipple discharge. Rather than a fixed day, Shah suggests, “Rather than adhering to a fixed day each month, women are encouraged to check their breasts regularly and intuitively, ideally at a consistent time in their menstrual cycle when hormonal fluctuations are minimal. During the seven days following your period, breast fullness and tenderness are typically reduced, making this the most recommended time to perform a self-examination."Hormonal masking and overlooked red flagsThe hormonal fluctuations of perimenopause once you turn 40 years and through the decade can be deceptive. Dr Bhavisha Ghugare, senior consultant surgical breast oncology at HCG Cancer Centre in Borivali, highlights how perimenopausal symptoms like breast tenderness and glandular changes can mask malignancy, "Women often attribute changes like fullness, pain, or small nodules to hormonal variations. But what we want women to watch for are non-cyclic changes—those that persist beyond their menstrual cycle.”Beyond the well-known lump, Ghugare stresses several commonly overlooked red flags, "Often, women overlook signs such as skin dimpling, puckering, redness, or an orange-peel-like texture, which could indicate underlying malignancy. Similarly, nipple inversion, scaling, crusting, spontaneous discharge (especially if blood-stained), or persistent localised pain are red flags.”Knowing one's baseline—how the breasts normally look and feel—is key to identifying even small deviations early.The hidden challenge of breast densityBreast density is a critical, yet often under-discussed, factor in detection, particularly for women in their 40s. Dense breast tissue not only increases cancer risk but can also hide tumours on a standard mammogram because both appear white.Ghugare explains this ‘masking effect’, "Many women in their 40s have dense breasts due to ongoing hormonal activity. Knowing your breast density is vital—it should be mentioned in your mammogram report. If you have dense breasts, talk to your doctor about what additional screening you might need.”She emphasises that for women with dense breasts, a strong family history, or genetic predisposition, relying solely on an annual mammogram may not be enough. “Supplemental imaging such as breast ultrasound, digital breast tomosynthesis (3D mammogram), or breast MRI can help detect cancers that a standard mammogram may miss,” Ghugare advises.Need for self-advocacy “During an annual health check-up after 40, women should be proactive in discussing their breast health to ensure that screening recommendations are tailored to their individual risk profile. Personalised screening starts with an open and informed conversation with your doctor,” says Shah. She recommends women to be prepared to ask key questions, including:1. How to do a proper breast self-exam.2. Whether genetic testing is appropriate.3. If screening should begin earlier due to family history.4. What symptoms warrant immediate medical attention.5. What should be the recommended frequency of clinical breast examinations or imaging.Lifestyle modificationsWhile not all breast cancers can be prevented, lifestyle plays a major role in lowering overall risk. In your 40s, adopting sustainable habits can have a lasting protective impact. Shah notes that lifestyle plays a major role in lowering overall risk. Protective measures include:1. Avoiding tobacco use entirely.2. Limiting alcohol consumption.3. Maintaining a healthy weight and balanced diet.4. Engaging in regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week).Ghugare concludes with an empowering message for women entering this critical decade. She says, “Your 40s are the decade to be breast-aware, not breast-anxious. Listen to your body, track what’s normal for you, and never hesitate to ask for clarity or additional tests. Awareness, not fear, is your best defence.”
07 November,2025 01:18 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalThe awareness around stuttering in India is growing every day but there are still many misconceptions around it that adults have to deal with on a daily basis. However, there is a lot that can be done to help those people who live with it, especially when they are growing up as children. Every year, October 22 is observed as International Stuttering Awareness Day or International Stammering Awareness Day, to raise awareness about the speech challenge, that is known to affect one percent of the world’s population. While it is seen across ages, it starts early as a child for many, and with Children’s Day around the corner as it is celebrated in India on November 14, there is still a lot more to be done to create awareness about it. What is stuttering? For the uninitiated, stuttering, also known as stammering, is a speech disorder that tends to interrupt the natural flow of talking. A child who stutters may repeat sounds, syllables, or words; stretch out certain sounds; or experience blocks where no sound comes out. Dr Jagdish Kathwate, consultant neonatologist and paediatrician at Motherhood Hospital Kharadi Pune, explains, “Many children go through a phase of stuttering while learning to speak, but persistent speech blocks or repetition may need professional attention. So, parents know that early support can help children communicate confidently and overcome speech difficulties. Read on to know more about this and seek timely intervention.” He further explains, It is commonly seen in children aged 2-6 years. This is the time when their language skills are rapidly developing. While many children outgrow it, some continue to stutter into adolescence or adulthood if not addressed early. The causes of stuttering can be genetic, speech and language development, as the child’s brain may process speech and language differently, causing disruptions in fluency.” It is the not only these early challenges but also the pressure to speak correctly or in stressful situations that may worsen stuttering. Differences in how the brain coordinates speech muscles may play a role when it comes to stuttering, the Pune-based expert adds.Causes, symptoms and effectsThe causes of stuttering are not fully understood but few factors play a role like genetic factors, speech and language development, emotional and environmental factors like stress, pressure to speak perfectly, neurophysiological differences like how the brain coordinates the muscles for speech and family communication style like fast paced or interruptive conversations at home sometime might increase chances of stuttering.Some of the common symptoms are as follows: 1. Repetition of sounds or words2. Prolonged sounds or pauses while speaking3. Difficulty starting a word or sentence4. Tension in the face, lips, or neck when trying to speak5. Avoiding speaking situations or showing frustration while talkingUntreated stuttering can often lead to low self-esteem, social anxiety, or fear of speaking in public. Children may withdraw from conversations, struggle academically, or develop communication-related insecurities that persist into adulthood. If stuttering lasts for more than 6-8 months, or worsens over time, or is accompanied by distress, then parents should approach a speech therapist for help. The therapist will give the child some exercises, teach pronunciation to improve the speech. This will be done by regular sessions that can help the child deal with stuttering. Can stuttering be treated?Dr Kathwate says seeking help from a certified speech and language therapist at the first sign of persistent stuttering is the easiest way to manage it. However, there is a lot more to understand before that. Dr Chhya Vaja, internal medicine expert at Apollo Spectra Hospital in Tardeo in Mumbai says stuttering in children is more common than many parents realise. She further explains, “Moreover, it’s important to understand that it isn’t a sign of low intelligence or poor parenting. It happens when the brain’s speech and language systems don’t perfectly sync, causing the child to repeat sounds, stretch words, or pause frequently while speaking. Stress, fast speech, or pressure to ‘speak properly’ can make it worse, which is why creating a calm and patient environment is key.” Tips for parents with children who stutter Parents often make the mistake of finishing their child’s sentences or correcting them too quickly, says Dr Vaja, which can add to their frustration and anxiety. “Instead, listen patiently, maintain eye contact, and let them finish at their own pace. With early speech therapy, most children learn to manage stuttering effectively and gain confidence in communication. Therapy focuses on slowing down speech, using breathing techniques, and building self-assurance. The goal isn’t fluent speech; it’s helping the child feel heard, relaxed, and supported. When children feel understood rather than judged, their confidence improves, and speech becomes more natural over time. So, seek help from an expert without any delay. It is possible to overcome stuttering,” she adds. Sharing tips to manage it better, Dr Kathwate shares, “Let your child speak without interruption or correction. Don’t pressurise the child or scold him/her. Praise the child’s efforts instead of criticising him/her.” With timely therapy, family support, and patience, majority of children will be able to tackle stuttering and become confident as they grow. So, parents, seek timely intervention.
06 November,2025 07:06 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoEvery year, Diwali is a festival that is widely celebrated across India. Known to as the "Festival of Lights", it brings joy and togetherness but not without its fair share of smoke and noise pollution, which only gets worse for people who are already suffering from related diseases. In the days following the celebrations, many individuals, particularly between 35-65 years, experience a surge in respiratory problems. Exposure to smoke, dust, and particulate matter from fireworks, combined with seasonal pollution, can exacerbate underlying conditions and lead to new illnesses. Experts urge people to be aware of warning signs and seek timely medical care to avoid serious complications. Diwali is indeed exciting, but many people can experience respiratory issues that can be a matter of concern. Post-Diwali pollution impacts respiratory health, especially for those with pre-existing conditions. After Diwali, exposure to smoke, dust, and fine particulate matter from fireworks, along with seasonal air pollution, can irritate the lungs and worsen existing respiratory conditions. These environmental triggers can also lead to new problems such as asthma flare-ups, bronchitis, or even pneumonia if timely precautions aren’t taken. Dr Tanvi Bhatt, pulmonologist, Zynova Shalby Hospital in Mumbai says, “We see a sharp rise in cases of asthma flare-ups, COPD exacerbations, bronchitis, and even pneumonia during this period. Asthma causes wheezing and difficulty breathing, COPD leads to long-term airflow obstruction, bronchitis triggers a persistent cough and mucus, and pneumonia is a severe lung infection that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Patients should not ignore symptoms such as persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest tightness, or fever, as early intervention can prevent severe complications and improve recovery outcomes. About 40 per cent of people experience respiratory problems after Diwali. Four out of 10 people between 45-55 years come with cough and breathlessness linked to pneumonia, three come with asthma flare-ups, two with bronchitis, and around one with triggered COPD and are advised prompt management.” Dr Tanvi added, “Limit outdoor exposure during heavy smog or firework days, use N95 masks in high pollution areas, keep windows closed and air purifiers on at home, stay hydrated, and avoid smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke and seek medical help immediately if you experience a persistent cough, fever, or breathing difficulty. Take charge of your respiratory health, prevent pneumonia and other critical issues, and save your lungs." “Air pollution after festivals like Diwali may seem unavoidable, but simple precautions can save lives. Around 30 per cent of people experience respiratory problems post-Diwali. Of every 10 patients aged between 45-55 years, three come with cough and breathlessness linked to pneumonia, two with asthma flare-ups, one with bronchitis, and another with triggered COPD, while the rest may suffer from congestion, sore throat, or cold. Families should closely monitor vulnerable members, especially children and the elderly, and seek prompt medical care. Using masks outdoors, staying hydrated, limiting exposure to smoke, and maintaining clean indoor air are simple yet effective steps to protect health and prevent avoidable complications,” concluded Dr Tushar Rane, internal medicine expert at Apollo Spectra in Mumbai.
06 November,2025 04:37 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a story that redefines resilience and medical triumph, a 37-year-old woman Lallianpuii from Aizawl in Mizoram, has achieved the extraordinary, she conceived naturally twice, first in 2023 and again in 2025, after undergoing two kidney transplants, in Kolkata. Lallianpuii was first diagnosed with chronic kidney disease over a decade ago and underwent her first kidney transplant in 2012. After developing graft rejection, she required a second transplant in 2020. Despite the physical and emotional challenges of lifelong immunosuppressive therapy, she defied all odds by conceiving naturally twice. During her first pregnancy in 2023, Lallianpuii gave birth to a healthy baby girl after a carefully monitored journey that drew admiration from her medical team. Just two years later, in 2025, she once again conceived naturally and delivered a healthy male baby weighing 3.2 kg through cesarean section at 36+6 weeks. Both pregnancies were free of major complications, with her kidney function remaining stable throughout. Both her high-risk pregnancies were meticulously managed and delivered by of Dr. Rohit Rungta, senior consultant, Nephrology, and Dr. Shilpita Banerjee, Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Manipal Hospital EM Bypass in Kolkata marking an exceptionally rare and inspiring feat in medical science. While discussing her case, Dr Rungta, shared, “Pregnancy in a kidney transplant recipient is rare and complex, as patients are on lifelong immunosuppressive drugs. What makes Lallianpuii’s case extraordinary is that she conceived naturally not once, but twice, after two transplants. Both pregnancies were carefully managed to maintain kidney function and ensure normal fetal development. It’s an inspiring example of determination, medical teamwork, and hope.” Dr Banerjee, who handled both the pregnancies, shared, “Managing consecutive pregnancies in a renal transplant recipient is rare and requires meticulous coordination. We had to balance her medications, protect the transplanted kidney, and closely monitor the baby’s growth. Her courage and trust in the medical process made these outcomes possible.” Expressing her joy, Lallianpuii shared, “After battling kidney failure and going through two transplants, I never imagined becoming a mother, even once. But with Dr. Rungta and Dr. Banerjee’s care and constant support, I have now been blessed with two beautiful children. They gave me not just medical care but hope and confidence to dream again.” Her journey stands as a beacon of hope for women with chronic illnesses, proving that with medical expertise, perseverance, and faith, even the most impossible dreams can come true, not just once, but twice.
06 November,2025 01:33 PM IST | Kolkata | mid-day online correspondentAntimicrobial peptides can control pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli -- a major cause of foodborne diseases -- and can also act as an alternative to antibiotics to help combat increasing antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Antimicrobial peptides, which are short chains of amino acids, have the potential to kill harmful bacteria without inducing resistance to antibiotics. The findings show that antimicrobial peptides have the potential to improve food safety and protect public health without relying on antibiotic use. “Antimicrobial peptides have the potential to be alternatives to antibiotics and thereby could mitigate antibiotic resistance,” said corresponding study author Gireesh Rajashekara, Professor at College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. “These peptides not only can kill Salmonella but also other related bacterial pathogens such as E. coli, so they could be really valuable in controlling a broad range of pathogens,” he added. The researchers conducted their study to identify antibiotic alternatives to control Salmonella in chickens. Salmonella is one of the major causes of foodborne illnesses in the US, and chickens and chicken products (eggs and meat) have been considered the main vehicles of Salmonella infection in humans. In the new study, published in the journal Microbiology Spectrum, researchers identified a set of antimicrobial peptides that could kill many different types of Salmonella in test tubes, then showed they could also kill Salmonella in chickens. The antibacterial activity of the peptides is likely due to their effect on Salmonella membranes. The researchers said the peptides retain their activity upon exposure to heat and protease treatments, characteristics necessary for the use of antimicrobial products in the poultry industry. “We identified 2 antimicrobial peptides that kill many different types of Salmonella and also reduce Salmonella load in chickens,” Rajashekara said. The expert noted that their next step "is to test these peptides in chickens on a large scale, optimise their delivery in water and/or feed, understand better how they kill Salmonella, and explore more peptides like these for their anti-Salmonella activity.” 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
06 November,2025 12:57 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSADVERTISEMENT
