How the ‘tech neck’ epidemic from modern lifestyles is fuelling orthopaedic ailments – Firstpost

Modern life, with its long hours spent sitting at desks, constant screen time and increasingly sedentary habits is taking a silent toll on our bodies. Musculoskeletal conditions are on a sharp rise globally, becoming a leading cause of pain and disability. According to a 2023 World Health Organization (WHO) report, approximately 1.71 billion people worldwide […]

The new human organ scientists discovered in 2020 can help fight cancer of head and neck: Research – Firstpost

Dutch scientists have discovered hidden salivary glands that could ease cancer treatment side effects in the head and neck In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists in the Netherlands have identified a previously unknown organ in the human throat, a finding that could transform cancer care for patients with head and neck tumours. The new organ, termed […]

What is ‘mouse fever’, the illness that has struck Russian soldiers in Ukraine? – Firstpost

A frontline Russian military unit, infamous for its flashy combat videos on social media, has been struck by a serious outbreak of a dangerous disease spread by rodents. The Akhmat Battalion, a Chechen special forces group widely referred to as Russia’s “TikTok soldiers,” is dealing with confirmed cases of hantavirus infection, commonly known among troops […]

For the first time, world has more obese school kids than underweight – Firstpost

For the first time ever, global childhood obesity now outstrips underweight, affecting 1 in 10 school-aged children. UNICEF warns ultra-processed food and poor policy have created a new, urgent form of malnutrition. For the first time in modern history, global childhood obesity has eclipsed underweight among school-aged children and adolescents, according to a new UNICEF […]

How water could be your new stress buster – Firstpost

A new study, published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, found that people who drank less than one-and-a-half litres daily showed dramatically higher levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, when faced with stressful situations. The findings further add hydration to the growing list of lifestyle factors that influence stress resilience Daniel Kashi, Liverpool […]

Why Pap smears can’t detect ovarian cancer and which tests women should rely on instead – Firstpost

Ovarian cancer remains one of the deadliest gynaecological cancers, largely because it is detected late and lacks effective early screening tools. Despite advances in treatment, many women are still unaware of the early signs, myths and genetic risks associated with the disease. Firstpost spoke with Dr. Himani Sharma, Clinical Head & Senior Consultant – Obstetrics […]

What is this rare medical condition? – Firstpost

In a remarkably rare case, doctors in Gurugram recently removed two ‘parasitic’ foetuses growing inside the abdomen of a one-month-old baby girl. The condition, known as foetus in fetu, is extremely rare, seen in only about 1 in 5,00,000 live births worldwide. Here’s how doctors managed to save the infant In an extraordinary case from […]

How gardening is a good stress-buster – Firstpost

Research suggests 20 to 30 minutes of gardening a few times a week can reduce stress and lift mood, with benefits increasing the more regularly one gardens. Digging the dirt also strengthens social connections, and increases fibre intake, which helps reduce risk factors for some physical and mental illnesses, including high blood pressure, type 2 […]

Why 60% of liver cancers are preventable and how early action can save lives – Firstpost

Liver cancer remains one of the world’s most lethal cancers, ranked sixth in incidence but fourth in cancer-related mortality globally, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Alarmingly, nearly 60% of liver cancer cases are preventable, as highlighted in a recent Lancet Commission report. Factors such as hepatitis B (HBV) and C virus (HCV) infections, […]

How heatwaves are making people age faster – Firstpost

Heatwaves are no longer just temporary episodes of discomfort; scientists are uncovering how they silently shape long-term human health. Beyond immediate dangers such as dehydration and heatstroke, new research shows that sustained exposure to extreme heat speeds up the body’s biological ageing. The findings are reshaping the medical and public health understanding of climate-related risks, […]

What is the flesh-eating screwworm parasite detected in a person in the US for the first time? – Firstpost

For the first time, the United States has reported a human case of the flesh-eating screwworm parasite, raising fresh alarm among authorities. The infection was detected in Maryland in a traveller who had recently returned from Central America, where an outbreak of the parasite has been spreading northwards since late 2024. Officials are now worried […]

London clinic claims to remove microplastics from body for Rs 13.5 lakh. What is the procedure? – Firstpost

Microplastics are now being found in almost every part of the human body, from the brain to the heart. A 2019 study in the journal ‘Environmental Science & Technology’ estimated that an average person takes in about 39,000 to 52,000 microplastic particles each year. ALSO READ | Love chewing gum? You’re probably ingesting microplastic particles, […]

Talking to chatbots can lead to ‘AI psychosis’. Is this a growing mental health risk? – Firstpost

Artificial intelligence chatbots have quickly become embedded in everyday life. Millions of people across the globe now interact with tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Copilot on a weekly basis. For many, these systems provide convenience: drafting emails, assisting with coding, brainstorming creative ideas, or offering quick information. However, people are also using chatbots as […]

Why chronic venous insufficiency is often mistaken for ageing in seniors – Firstpost

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a progressive condition where leg veins struggle to return blood to the heart, is often dismissed as a natural part of ageing. In India’s rapidly ageing population, the disorder frequently goes unnoticed until it leads to severe complications such as painful ulcers, skin damage, and mobility loss. Symptoms like swollen ankles, […]

What is ‘tooth-in-eye-surgery’, the procedure that helped Canadian woman regain her vision? – Firstpost

Gail Lane, a 75-year-old Canadian woman, regained vision after a decade of suffering from visual impairment; she had damaged her corneas due to an autoimmune disorder. However, through a very rare procedure, osteo-odonto keratoprosthesis, or colloquially known as “tooth-in-eye” surgery, she can now see again A tooth in your eye to help you see again? […]

What is this condition? – Firstpost

Seeking dietary advice from artificial intelligence (AI) proved costly for a 60-year-old man. According to a US medical journal, the man developed a rare condition after he consulted ChatGPT about removing table salt from his diet. An article published in the Annals of Internal Medicine on August 5 warned against using ChatGPT for health information, […]

What are its symptoms? – Firstpost

Symptoms are similar to other Omicron subvariants, including fever, chills, shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, loss of taste or smell, and diarrhoea Several western US states are seeing sharp increases in Covid-19 activity, with the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data showing wastewater virus levels at […]

It’s all in the brain – Firstpost

Noise sensitivity, often dismissed by health professionals, can significantly impact both mental and physical wellbeing. Affecting up to 40% of the population, this condition is linked to anxiety, sleep disturbances, and long-term health risks. read more While noise sensitivity is often overlooked by health professionals, it can have long-lasting effects on the mental and physical […]

How does this disease spread, what Beijing is doing to tackle it? – Firstpost

Southern China is currently witnessing an unprecedented spike in chikungunya virus cases, with over 7,000 infections recorded in a matter of weeks. The outbreak — originating in Foshan, a populous city in Guangdong province — has prompted public health measures, including both conventional mosquito-control strategies and unconventional methods rarely seen outside research settings. China has […]

What happens to the human body without food? – Firstpost

Since Israel launched its war on Gaza in October 2023, dozens have died from starvation and malnutrition-related conditions. The majority of these deaths have been recorded in recent months, as the already fragile humanitarian situation collapsed further. In March this year, Israel tightened its blockade into what aid workers describe as a “total siege,” halting […]

How AI and adaptive therapy are revolutionising lung cancer radiotherapy – Firstpost

Lung cancer, long associated with late-stage diagnosis and limited treatment success, is now witnessing a transformative shift in care. Driven by advances in high-precision radiotherapy and personalised medicine, this evolution is offering new hope for patients. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the disease accounts for nearly 2.5 million new cases and 1.8 million […]

Why Swedish company is offering 30-minute masturbation breaks to employees – Firstpost

Erica Lust, the founder of a Swedish adult entertainment company, said she started offering 30-minute masturbation breaks to her employees during Covid-19 as a means to reduce stress. The experiment soon received a positive response, with employees feeling ’less aggression’ and ‘more productive’, prompting the firm to make the policy permanent. So, how does self-pleasure […]

What is this rare pregnancy? – Firstpost

Doctors in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, were left stunned after an MRI scan of a 30-year-old woman revealed something highly unusual, she was 12 weeks pregnant, but the foetus wasn’t in her uterus. It was growing in her liver. The woman had unknowingly developed intrahepatic ectopic pregnancy, a condition so rare that many doctors go their […]

How air pollution, stress and late pregnancies are fuelling India’s fertility crisis – Firstpost

Infertility is emerging as a pressing public health concern in India, affecting an estimated 10–15% of couples according to studies published in The Lancet and other medical journals. The issue has been further spotlighted by government data and clinical observations pointing to a surge in conditions like PCOS, endometriosis and declining sperm quality, particularly in […]

Can sunbathing lead to brain haemorrhage? – Firstpost

Sunbathing for long proved costly for an elderly woman in China. The 67-year-old reportedly suffered a brain haemorrhage and slipped into a coma after sunbathing her back for two hours in intense summer heat. The incident has spread shockwaves across mainland China. While there are advantages of sunbathing, the exposure to the sun for long […]

Why DIY skincare isn’t always safe – Firstpost

Scrolling through social media, it’s hard to miss influencers raiding the pantry for “natural” beauty fixes: baking-soda scrubs, garlic spot sticks, cayenne masks that promise to tighten pores and banish dullness. The appeal is obvious. Why pay for a dermatologist-tested cream when everyday ingredients come with antimicrobial or exfoliating properties? Yet what looks sensible in […]

How diet, sleep and gut health impact GLP-1 and weight regulation – Firstpost

As GLP-1-based drugs like semaglutide gain popularity, new insights highlight how gut health, diet, protein, and sleep can naturally support GLP-1 hormone function. Firstpost presents expert views on how lifestyle changes can aid metabolic health and weight management. read more In recent years, GLP-1-based medications such as semaglutide and liraglutide have captured global attention for […]

What is chronic venous insufficiency, the vein condition Trump is suffering from? – Firstpost

Speculation ran wild this week after viral photos showed bruising on President Donald Trump’s hand and noticeably swollen ankles, sparking intense online chatter about his health. Amid the growing buzz, the White House confirmed that the President has been diagnosed with a chronic vein condition known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). In a media briefing […]

Why reels are short but their mental health impact isn’t – Firstpost

In the age of endless scrolling, short-form video content like Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts and TikTok has woven itself into the daily routine of millions, especially teenagers and young adults. While these clips may seem harmless entertainment, experts warn that compulsive consumption can lead to what is now increasingly referred to as ‘reels addiction.’ Characterised […]

Major cancer drugs could become cheaper as India considers import duty waiver – Firstpost

The documents show that blockbuster cancer drugs like pembrolizumab (brand Keytruda), osimertinib (brand Tagrisso), and trastuzumab deruxtecan (brand Enhertu), used to treat lung and breast cancer, will be fully exempted from customs duty read more India will likely slash the prices of medicines used to treat critical conditions like HIV Aids and cancer as a […]

What is RFK Jr doing about it? – Firstpost

The United States is facing its most severe measles outbreak in over three decades, with 1,277 confirmed infections recorded so far this year across 38 states and Washington, DC, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Outbreak Response Innovation (CORI). This marks the largest annual tally of cases since 1992, when more […]

How doctors are adapting to the digital transformation of healthcare – Firstpost

As AI, telemedicine and digital tools transform healthcare, doctors are adapting to a tech-driven future while preserving the human touch. Experts say technology can enhance care but empathy, intuition and doctor-patient relationships remain essential in modern medicine’s evolving role. read more As technology continues to transform healthcare at an unprecedented pace, doctors are learning to […]

Is Covid vaccine to blame? – Firstpost

Heart attack-related deaths have gone up alarmingly in Karnataka’s Hassan district. In the past 40 days, 23 people have died after suffering heart attacks. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has now set up a team of experts, led by Dr Ravindranath from the Jayadeva Institute, to find out what is behind the spike. The panel has […]

Why appendix cancer is rising among the young & how it differs from colon cancer – Firstpost

Once considered extremely rare, appendix cancer is now showing a worrying rise particularly among younger adults. New research suggests that cases have quadrupled in recent decades with many detected at advanced stages due to vague or absent symptoms. As awareness remains low and early detection difficult, understanding the signs, risk factors and treatment pathways becomes […]

How to spot early Alzheimer’s symptoms and why younger adults should care too – Firstpost

Alzheimer’s disease isn’t just a condition of old age. Subtle symptoms can appear earlier than expected and are often mistaken for routine forgetfulness. Firstpost spoke to an expert on how to recognise the red flags, distinguish the disease from normal ageing, and adopt preventive measures to protect brain health early. read more Alzheimer’s disease, often […]

Why sickle cell disease disproportionately affects India’s tribal communities – Firstpost

Sickle Cell disease disproportionately affects India’s tribal populations, with complications impacting both children and adults. Firstpost brings out experts’ view on early signs, treatments and strategies for managing pain and infection in sickle cell patients. read more Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), a hereditary blood disorder, remains a serious public health challenge in India, especially among […]

Is it time to sound the alarm bell? – Firstpost

India’s total fertility rate (TFR) has dipped below the replacement rate, according to a new United Nations demographic report. It also estimates that the South Asian country’s population will touch 1.46 billion (146 crore) in 2025. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)’s 2025 State of World Population (SOWP) Report, titled ‘The Real Fertility Crisis’, calls […]

Why booster shots are crucial even with mild Covid-19 symptoms prevailing – Firstpost

India is experiencing a mild surge in Covid-19 cases driven by new Omicron subvariants, with mostly mild symptoms. Experts stress the importance of boosters, surveillance and protecting vulnerable groups. Firstpost brings out a doctor’s view on symptoms, vaccine effectiveness, and the country’s preparedness in tackling the evolving situation. read more According to the Ministry of […]

What’s really on your plate? How pesticide residues could increase your cancer risk – Firstpost

Scientific evidence indicates that long-term exposure to pesticide residues in food can increase the risk of certain cancers, say leading medical and agricultural experts. While the risk to a single consumer from low-level exposure is generally low, chronic consumption, especially of produce with high pesticide loads can have cumulative health effects. Explaning the complex relationship […]

Covid patient dies in Thane due to comorbidities, civic body says total active cases rise to 18 – Firstpost

The patient was admitted on Thursday for diabetes issues and later tested positive for Covid-19 on Friday night. Thane Municipal Corporation said eight new Covid-19 cases were reported in the city, bringing the total active cases to 18 read more On Saturday (May 24), a 21-year-old man with severe diabetes died at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj […]

How safe is this cosmetic procedure? – Firstpost

A full head of thick, beautiful hair – who doesn’t want that? But for many, it is becoming a fantasy. As hair loss has become increasingly common, it has led many people to opt for hair transplant surgery. However, combating hair loss turned deadly for two engineers in Uttar Pradesh’s Kanpur. Both died allegedly after […]

What’s going on? – Firstpost

A surge in Covid-19 cases in some regions of Asia has sparked fears in India. Singapore, Hong Kong, China and Thailand are reporting an uptick in coronavirus cases. In Singapore, the rise in Covid-19 infections has been attributed to strains linked to the JN.1 variant. India has also seen a spike in fresh COVID-19 cases […]

How preeclampsia turns hypertension into a deadly pregnancy crisis – Firstpost

Preeclampsia, a serious hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, affects 2–8% of pregnancies globally and remains a leading cause of maternal and new-born deaths, claiming around 46,000 maternal lives and 500,000 fatal or neonatal deaths each year. Despite being preventable and treatable, particularly with magnesium sulphate, its use remains limited in many low-resource settings. Preeclampsia and eclampsia […]

Climate change expanding dengue’s reach? Why India’s fight needs more than fogging – Firstpost

Dengue fever is rapidly emerging as a major health concern across India, particularly during the monsoon and post-monsoon months from July to mid-November. Traditionally concentrated in certain regions, the disease is now spreading to new areas such as Nagaland and parts of Himachal Pradesh, with experts attributing this expansion largely to climate change. Data from […]

10 facts about Malaria you need to know – Firstpost

Malaria, an ancient disease traced back to Egyptian mummies, remains a deadly global threat despite medical advancements. Unlike common perception, malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites rather than viruses or bacteria, transmitted exclusively by female Anopheles mosquitoes during blood-feeding. Firstpost brings out facts related to the disease. read more Malaria remains a persistent global health […]

Why Tamil Nadu has banned egg mayo – Firstpost

Tamil Nadu has banned the manufacture, storage, distribution or sale of mayonnaise prepared from raw eggs for a year, beginning April. According to the state’s food safety commissioner, food business operators use raw egg to make mayonnaise, which, if not stored properly, is a serious health hazard read more Tamil Nadu is the latest state […]

How lifestyle choices and late diagnosis are fueling India’s liver cancer crisis – Firstpost

As India marks World Liver Day, health experts are raising concerns over the rising burden of liver cancer, a disease often linked to modern lifestyle habits and late diagnosis. Despite advances in oncology, liver cancer cases, especially hepatocellular carcinoma are climbing steadily in India. Firstpost brings out a doctor’s view to explore the reasons behind […]

How harmful is it? – Firstpost

Indians and their love for paneer is legendary. Whether it’s a wedding reception, a Sunday dinner, or a fancy night out, paneer always finds its way to the table. But what if the paneer you’ve been happily digging into isn’t the real deal? That’s the question stirring up the internet after an influencer and YouTuber, […]

Equity in bleeding disorder care isn’t optional — it’s long overdue – Firstpost

As India observes World Hemophilia Day 2025 under the theme “Access for All: Women and Girls Bleed Too,” the spotlight turns to persistent gender disparities in the diagnosis and treatment of bleeding disorders. From systemic stigma and misdiagnosis to limited access to preventive therapy, the country continues to grapple with long-standing challenges, especially for women […]

Doctor’s ‘Indians take Dolo 650 like it’s Cadbury Gems’ post goes viral. How this can be harmful – Firstpost

Like Victoria Ratliff of The White Lotus could not stop popping her Lorazepams, Indians have developed an affinity for Dolo-650. India’s go-to medicine for fever and aches is back in the spotlight. Dr Palaniappan Manickam, a US-based gastroenterologist and health educator, drew attention to the widespread use of Dolo-650, a brand of paracetamol. “Indians take […]

What is Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, the rare brain condition that killed 2 people in the US? – Firstpost

A total of three cases of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, a rare and incurable brain condition, have been detected in Hood River County of Oregon state over the last eight months. This condition causes the brain to rapidly deteriorate, forming sponge-like holes that lead to severe neurological damage and, ultimately, death read more Two people are believed […]

Does drinking pee have any health benefits? – Firstpost

Former Indian prime minister Morarji Desai claimed he drank a daily glass of urine, which contributed to his longevity. British adventurer Bear Grylls also endorses it. From whitening teeth to treating allergies, ancient medicine emphasises on the benefits of urophagia or urine therapy. But are these claims foolproof? How can drinking waste be healthy? read […]

How Parkinson’s hides in plain sight and why early detection matters – Firstpost

Parkinson’s disease is often mistaken for routine aging—but ignoring early warning signs can delay crucial treatment. For Parkinson’s Awareness Month, Firstpost brings out a doctor’s view on how to decode symptoms, causes and the promise of newer treatments for the disease. read more Parkinson’s disease (PD) often creeps in unnoticed, its early symptoms mistaken for […]

Climate change is rewriting India’s public health future – Firstpost

Warming cities, extreme weather and ecological disruption are now directly impacting food security, maternal health and the wellbeing of millions read more Recent weather patterns across India offer compelling evidence that climate change is no longer a looming threat, it is a lived reality. Rising urban temperatures, increased seismic activity and environmental degradation demand not […]

India lags behind SDG goals on maternal health as World Health Day 2025 puts focus on mothers, infants – Firstpost

Despite progress in reducing maternal mortality, India continues to face significant challenges in ensuring the well-being of mothers and newborns. Experts stress the need for improved healthcare access, nutritional support, and early screenings to prevent avoidable deaths and complications The latest report by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) on Delhi’s public health […]

How Eli Lilly’s experimental drug can cut genetic heart disease risk by 94% in trial – Firstpost

A potential breakthrough in cardiovascular medicine has emerged with the development of lepodisiran, an experimental drug by pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly. The drug has demonstrated an unprecedented ability to lower levels of lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), a genetically inherited risk factor for cardiovascular disease. In a mid-stage clinical trial, patients who received either one or two […]

How a daily nap can do more harm than good – Firstpost

Napping has long been praised as a tool for boosting alertness, enhancing mood, strengthening memory and improving productivity. However, for some, the practice can sabotage nighttime sleep. Therefore, the key lies in understanding how the body regulates sleep and wakefulness read more You’re in the middle of the afternoon, eyelids heavy, focus slipping. You close […]

How toxic lifestyles, pollution are sabotaging men’s reproductive health – Firstpost

Male infertility now accounts for 30-40% of conception challenges in India, emerging as a major yet under-discussed public health issue. Driven by modern lifestyle factors, environmental exposures and genetic conditions, the problem affects an estimated 27.5 million people nationwide. Medical experts warn that addressing this challenge requires a three-pronged approach: improved diagnostic tools, timely medical […]

‘Workout Queen’ Katie Donnell dies at 28, mother blames energy drinks. Are they bad for the heart? – Firstpost

The sudden passing of Katie Donnell, a Florida fitness enthusiast, has reignited concerns about the potential dangers of energy drinks. The 28-year-old “workout queen”, who was dedicated to maintaining a fit and active lifestyle, suffered a fatal heart attack—one that her family believes may have been triggered by her regular consumption of high-caffeine energy drinks. […]

India recorded 51 ragging-related deaths in colleges from 2022 to 2024: Report – Firstpost

Based on 3,156 complaints registered at the National Anti-Ragging Helpline from 1,946 colleges, the report identified key trends, high-risk institutions, and the severity of ragging-related cases. read more A new study reveals 51 ragging-related deaths happened across Indian universities and colleges between 2022 and 2024 – a death toll comparable to student suicides in Rajasthan’s […]

Is our screen addiction blinding us? – Firstpost

In an era where screen time has become an integral part of daily life, concerns about digital eye health, especially among children, are on the rise. Firstpost spoke to pediatric eye specialists Dr. Varshini Shanker and Dr. Sumedha Sharma from Shroff Eye Centre (Delhi) to understand the impact of prolonged screen exposure and how to […]

Is HCoV-HKU1 a cause for concern, or just another seasonal virus? – Firstpost

HCoV-HKU1, which spreads through respiratory droplets, is less severe than SARS or COVID-19. Experts suggested preventive measures like hand hygiene, masking and vaccination can help reduce the risk of infection. While recovery is usually quick, vulnerable groups may experience prolonged symptoms. read more Human Coronavirus HKU1 (HCoV-HKU1), first identified in 2004 in Hong Kong, belongs […]

Is it better than Ozempic? – Firstpost

US pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly has launched Mounjaro, a diabetes and weight-loss drug, in India. Priced at Rs 3,500 for a 2.5 mg vial, the ‘game-changing’ medication has debuted in the Indian market as the country tackles high rates of obesity and diabetes. But is Mounjaro a better option than Ozempic? read more As new […]

How does popular weight-loss drug work? – Firstpost

India’s wait is over. The popular anti-obesity drug Mounjaro is finally here. The development comes after Eli Lilly received approval from India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). But what do we know about it? How does it work? Let’s take a closer look: What is it?  How does it work? Mounjaro is the brand […]

Can aspirin stop cancer from spreading? – Firstpost

Aspirin, one of the world’s most common over-the-counter painkillers, may have a powerful new role beyond relieving headaches and reducing fevers. Scientists have discovered that this inexpensive drug could help fight cancer. While earlier studies hinted at a link between aspirin use and improved cancer survival rates, a recent study published in Nature journal sheds […]

Anorexia kills more than it cures—why is it still ignored? – Firstpost

Anorexia nervosa with its devastating mental, behavioral, and physical symptoms has the highest mortality rate among psychiatric disorders, claiming lives through medical complications like cardiac arrhythmias, organ failure and suicide. Despite its lethality, societal misconceptions, stigma, and the proliferation of harmful online trends continue to fuel this silent epidemic. read more Anorexia nervosa remains one […]

Are ultra processed foods bad for you? – Firstpost

US Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr has begun targetting ultra-processed foods. Kennedy Jr has begun the process of eliminating a US Food and Drug Administration program called GRAS or “generally recognised as safe” which critics say has been abused by the food industry for decades. Chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes and […]

Experts warn of rising kidney disease in India, urge early screening to tackle crisis – Firstpost

As morning sunlight filtered through the windows of a Delhi hospital’s dialysis ward, patients shifted uncomfortably, adjusting the catheters in their arms. The rhythmic hum of machines underscored a stark reality—their lives had been upended. A year ago, many managed businesses, ran households and planned their futures. Now, they spend hours three days a week, […]

Is employee burnout draining company profits? – Firstpost

Employee burnout is no longer just a personal struggle — it’s a financial drain that is costing businesses millions. A recent study published in The American Journal of Preventive Medicine estimates that burnout costs the average US company with 1,000 employees approximately $5.04 million annually. This significant expense results from productivity losses, absenteeism and disengagement […]

The ‘common’ bacterial vaginosis, may actually be an STI. Here’s what women should know – Firstpost

A common yet potentially serious vaginal infection affecting nearly one in three women worldwide should be recognised as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), according to a new study. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) has long been dismissed as just another women’s health issue, but new research is turning that belief on its head. If confirmed, this could […]

Can you observe Ramzan without triggering headaches? – Firstpost

During Ramzan observe spiritual fasting but this practice becomes challenging for migraine patients as dehydration along with lowering of blood sugar levels and withdrawal from caffeine and disturbed sleep patterns read more Muslims throughout Ramzan participate in spiritual fasting however this practice proves difficult for migraine patients because dehydration combined with blood sugar drops and withdrawal from caffeine and interrupted sleep cycles. Strategical planning enables you to practice Ramzaan fasting despite preventing possible headaches. […]

Can Vitamin A really treat measles? Why RFK Jr’s claims have US health experts worried – Firstpost

Robert F Kennedy Jr, the US health secretary, has worried medical professionals, pediatricians, and lawmakers following his recent remarks on measles treatment. In response to a growing measles outbreak in Texas, Kennedy wrote an opinion piece for Fox News advocating the benefits of vitamin A and good nutrition — while notably omitting a strong endorsement […]

Obesity isn’t just a lifestyle issue—it’s a ticking time bomb driving diabetes, heart disease – Firstpost

In his 119th Mann Ki Baat address last month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a stark warning about India’s growing obesity crisis, highlighting that cases have doubled in just a few years, with children being the most affected group. His radio program emphasised not only the alarming increase in obesity rates but also how younger […]

Does intense heat make people age faster? – Firstpost

A new study suggests prolonged exposure to heat accelerates biological ageing in human beings. These effects are most noticeable in older people because they don’t sweat as much as younger people. The study is significant because heatwaves are becoming more frequent and severe, raising concerns about human health read more Heat not only drains our […]

Can vaping kill you? – Firstpost

She was just 10 years old when she picked up her first vape. Now, at 12, she lies in a hospital bed, fighting for her life. A young girl from Thailand is the latest victim of vaping—a dangerous habit that is hooking children with colourful packaging, sweet flavours, and the false promise of being “harmless.” […]

Pope Francis has pneumonia in both lungs after ‘polymicrobial infection’. Can this be life-threatening? – Firstpost

Pope Francis has been in hospital since last week. And his health condition is becoming more complex. The Vatican says he has now developed pneumonia in both lungs. This comes after Monday’s announcement that Pope was detected with a “polymicrobial infection” of his respiratory tract. The 88-year-old, who is one of the oldest popes in […]

How Ozempic can help reduce alcohol consumption – Firstpost

Ozempic, the popular weight-loss drug, might have an unexpected new use. A recent study has found that it could help reduce alcohol cravings and consumption. Published in JAMA Psychiatry on Wednesday, the research provides the strongest evidence yet that semaglutide—the active ingredient in Ozempic and the weight-loss drug Wegovy—could genuinely help individuals struggling with alcohol […]

India screens 146 mn women for breast cancer; health minister says 57,000 diagnosed, 50,000 receiving treatment – Firstpost

The National NCD Portal was rolled out by the government in 2018 under NP-NCD for non communicable diseases (NCDs) screening and management and ensuring continuum of care for five common NCDs, including breast and cervical cancer read more Over 14.6 crore women across the country have been screened for breast cancer and 57,184 were diagnosed […]

Healthcare experts hail Budget 2025’s push for daycare cancer centers, drug cost relief – Firstpost

The central government will facilitate the establishment of day-care cancer centers in all district hospitals over the next three years with 200 of these set to be established in 2025-26, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced on Saturday while presenting the Union Budget 2025-26. Catch all the LIVE Updates from  Union Budget 2025 In her […]

Is it really beneficial? – Firstpost

A debate about cow urine has been reignited after the director of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras endorsed the “medicinal value” of gaumutra. V Kamakoti’s remarks at a recent event invited backlash from several quarters, however, some have jumped in to defend him. Cow urine has often evoked mixed reactions. While proponents claim […]

Why France is warning young men to stay away from ‘aphrodisiac’ honey – Firstpost

French authorities are raising red flags over a growing trend: “aphrodisiac” honey, which has become increasingly popular among men across the country. Promoted as a “natural” solution to boost sexual performance, this honey is far from harmless. Officials warn that if this illegal ’love honey’ is consumed without proper regulation, can lead to serious and […]

Is it dangerous? – Firstpost

News that actor Saif Ali Khan was stabbed at his Bandra home during an attempted burglary has left many shocked. The incident reportedly occurred around 2.30 am. Khan, who was awoken by suspicious sounds, is said to have been stabbed repeatedly after confronting the assailant. He was brought to Lilavati hospital and is now thought […]

Artificial Intelligence better than doctors in detecting breast and ovarian cancers, find studies – Firstpost

Artificial intelligence has proven to be helpful in identifying more cases of breast and ovarian cancer. Studies conducted in Germany and Sweden have shown that AI models can outperform doctors and medical experts in detecting these cancers. read more Artificial intelligence has proven to be helpful in detecting breast and ovarian cancer and could even […]

What is the ‘Quad-demic’ that the US and UK are grappling with? – Firstpost

The US and UK are battling a ‘quad-demic’ as COVID-19, flu, RSV, and norovirus converge, overwhelming healthcare systems. Hospitals face record admissions, with paediatric wards and emergency rooms stretched thin. Experts urge vaccinations, hygiene measures, and vigilance to curb the viral surge read more The term “quad-demic” refers to the simultaneous surge of four major […]