India detects first case of HMPV in Karnataka’s Bengaluru, 8-month-old tests positive – Firstpost

India has reported first cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) from Karnataka’s Bengaluru. The ICMR has confirmed both the cases as of HMPV infection. read more The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has confirmed two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka’s Bengaluru. The ICMR said in a statement that the two cases were found […]

Can the HMPV virus in China trigger a health concern for India? – Firstpost

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus causing flu-like symptoms, has sparked concerns following a surge in cases in China. While the virus shares similarities with COVID-19, experts clarify it poses no immediate threat to India. Authorities urge precautionary measures like good hygiene and avoiding contact with sick individuals read more Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory […]

Why portion control and packaged food size is important for nutrition and health – Firstpost

In the contemporary Indian context, where dietary habits are evolving amid rapid urbanisation and changing lifestyles, the size of food portions and packaging plays a pivotal role in influencing nutrition intake and overall health outcomes. It is pertinent to keep in mind that non-communicable diseases or health issues are due to factors including genes, environment, […]

How much life are you losing? – Firstpost

Every cigarette you smoke costs an average of 20 minutes of your life, according to new research by University College London. With smoking cutting into healthy middle years and reducing life expectancy by a decade, experts urge smokers to quit as the new year approaches read more Smoking remains one of the most significant preventable […]

What is it? – Firstpost

Three years ago, 28-year-old Emily Morton from Australia was living a happy, ordinary life. She had recently married the love of her life, Andy, and the couple was enjoying every moment together. They were even planning to start a family soon. Life seemed perfect. But one day, Morton began experiencing a peculiar, persistent pain in […]

Red meat and Diabetes: Should we rethink our plate?

A groundbreaking study published in The Lancet has highlighted an alarming link between red meat consumption and type 2 diabetes, a disease affecting over 462 million people globally. Researchers found that high intake of both unprocessed and processed red meats significantly increased the risk of type 2 diabetes across diverse populations

How worried should humans be? – Firstpost

The United States has reported its first severe case of bird flu, marking a significant development in the ongoing outbreak of avian influenza. A 65-year-old resident of Louisiana is currently hospitalised in critical condition after exposure to an infected backyard flock. This case has been linked to the H5N1 strain of bird flu and is […]

Is flesh-eating bacteria that disfigures body spreading in Australia? – Firstpost

Australians are gripped in fear, as a flesh-eating bacteria known as Buruli ulcer, continues to spread, raising fears of its potential arrival in major cities.Previously considered rare in Australia, the ulcer has previously been reported across multiple regions, including North Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Victoria. However, its recent appearance in the coastal town of […]

Could a pill provide the benefits of yoga? – Firstpost

In today’s information age, anxiety and stress problems are more common than ever. There may soon be a revolutionary pill for those with such disorders that simulates the calmness of a yoga practice. Researchers have made significant progress in understanding how our brains regulate breathing, putting them on the path of creating this fascinating drug. […]

Worried about microplastics? You should fear lead more for your health – Firstpost

Lead exposure poses a more immediate and well-documented threat to human health compared to microplastics. In children, it can result in low IQ, stunted development, and other issues. In adults, it can cause hypertension and reproductive failure read more Microplastics— tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size— are pervasive in the environment and […]

First treatment for asthma attack in 50 years. Here’s what you need to know – Firstpost

A major breakthrough in asthma treatment has been achieved through the use of Benralizumab, which researchers are calling a “game-changer.” Benralizumab, the first new treatment for asthma attacks and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in 50 years, was initially approved by US and EU regulators in 2017. It was specifically designed to treat eosinophilic asthma, […]

Biden wants to make weight-loss drugs more accessible. Will it pass the Trump test? – Firstpost

Good news awaits millions of Americans suffering from obesity and desperate to shed the kilos. The Biden administration has announced a proposal to require Medicare and Medicaid to cover weight-loss drugs. The Health and Human Services (HHS) Department unveiled the proposal on Tuesday to add anti-obesity drugs like Wegovy, Zepbound, Ozempic and Mounjaro under Medicare […]

Why paracetamol, antiacid, and other common Indian drugs have failed quality tests – Firstpost

In a shocking revelation, India’s top drug regulator, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), has flagged over 50 commonly used medications, including household names like Paracetamol and antacid Pan D, for failing to meet safety and quality standards. These are not obscure drugs, but essentials found in millions of homes across the country. From […]

With heart attacks on the rise, why CPR is a life skill that every person should learn – Firstpost

Recently, a video went viral on social media in which a railway ticket examiner administered Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and saved a man’s life on a long-distance train between Bihar’s Darbhanga and Uttar Pradesh’s Varanasi. Social media users praised the Railways official for his quick thinking and preparedness to tackle the medical emergency. The incident has […]

Lifestyle, pollution & mental health linked to rising heart disease among youth  – Firstpost

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the primary cause of mortality worldwide, resulting in a substantial number of fatalities and disabilities. The alarming statistics from 2021 reveal that CVDs claimed 20.5 million lives, accounting for approximately one-third of all global deaths. Young Indians are increasingly vulnerable to heart disease due to alarming environmental and lifestyle factors. Rising […]

What makes methanol poisoning so lethal? – Firstpost

A series of events in a Southeast Asian nation has brought the dangers of methanol poisoning into sharp focus after four foreign nationals, including a 19-year-old Australian teenager, died in Laos. Several others have fallen ill, leading to heightened warnings from governments and experts about the risks associated with consuming alcohol in certain regions. What […]

A growing risk factor for stroke in older adults – Firstpost

Particulate matter PM2.5 and PM10 pose significant health risks including stroke. Preventive action is essential to reduce the harmful effects of air pollution, particularly for vulnerable populations by identifying the sources of particulate matter pollution, we can strive for cleaner air and improved health outcomes. read more Exposure to air pollution has been recognised as […]

How early diagnosis can prevent millions from losing their sight – Firstpost

Blindness remains a significant global health challenge with millions vulnerable due to preventable or treatable conditions. Globally, the primary causes of vision impairment and blindness are refractive errors, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration. According to WHO only 36% of individuals with distance vision impairment due to refractive error and 17% of those […]

Study in Lancet – Firstpost

The groundbreaking international study found that the rates of diabetes in adults doubled from about 7 per cent to about 14 per cent from 1990 to 2022 read more A new study by Lancet found that the number of people suffering from diabetes has doubled over the past 30 years to more than 800 million […]

What is it? How common is it? – Firstpost

Bollywood actor Alia Bhatt has gone into more detail about her battle with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Alia, in an interview with The Lallantop, said, “I have been zoning out from things since childhood. I would zone out while in the classroom or in the middle of a conversation. Just recently, I took up […]

What is E. coli and how deadly is it? – Firstpost

Who doesn’t love McDonald’s? It is the world’s largest food chain, with over 40,000 stores worldwide. However, the popular food chain’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers have caused concern in the United States after one person died and several others became ill due to E. coli infections in 10 states, the US Centres for Disease Control and […]

Experts call for early detection, lifestyle changes as breast cancer cases surge among younger women – Firstpost

The rising incidence of breast cancer is becoming a global health crisis, affecting women at increasingly younger ages. In March 2024, renowned actress Olivia Munn, 43, revealed her battle with aggressive luminal B breast cancer, leading to a double mastectomy. In India, recently Bollywood actress Hina Khan, 36, was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer.  […]

All about U-WIN, India’s new online vaccine portal for pregnant women, children – Firstpost

Giving a significant boost to India’s Universal Immunisation Programme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday will unveil U-WIN, an online portal that will revolutionise vaccination tracking in the country. Much like CoWIN, which managed COVID-19 vaccinations, U-WIN will create a centralised digital record for vaccinations given to both pregnant women and children. The digital platform […]

How Bamboo charcoal act as natural shield against pollution – Firstpost

The World Health Organisation (WHO) considers air pollution a major environmental health risk and a significant cause of skin diseases. Exposure to particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) significantly impacts skin health, triggering oxidative stress, inflammation, and barrier damage in the skin. Scientific research, such as the “Review of Green Synthesis: […]

4 ways how cancer care has improved in India

Cancer cases are expected to exceed 35 million by 2050, up from an estimated 20 million in 2022, said the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Image used for representational purposes/Pixabay Cancer care in India is undergoing a profound transformation, marked by a shift towards more effective and personalized treatment strategies. The nation is […]

WHO applauds extension of healthcare coverage to ASHA, Anganwadi workers under Ayushman Bharat Scheme

Dr Roderico H. Ofrin, WHO Representative to India. Source: who.int The World Health Organization, or WHO, welcomed the Budget 2024 announcement of extension of healthcare coverage to ASHA, Anganwadi workers and helpers under Ayushman Bharat Scheme. “ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, and helpers are at the forefront of health and care delivery at the grassroots level. […]

Can Alzheimer’s disease spread from person to person?

The study raises new questions about Alzheimer’s disease. Image used for representational purposes/Pixabay You can’t ‘catch’ Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia. Until now. A new study has revealed that five people may have “caught” the brain disorder after receiving growth hormone from human cadavers during childhood. The study, published in the journal […]

Can birth control cause infertility?

Birth control measures do not cause infertility. AP Infertility poses a significant challenge for numerous couples globally, with approximately 40 per cent to 50 per cent of cases attributed to female infertility. Amidst this concern, it is crucial to highlight a reassuring fact: a woman’s future ability to conceive is not contingent on her current […]

Demand, challenges, and way forward

Representational image. Pixabay In India, there are more than 2 million Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 5 (CKD5) patients who have only two options to stay alive – transplant or maintenance dialysis. With transplant having its challenges, dialysis hence is the mainstay of survival for these patients. Significant numbers get added every year with a high […]

A Daily Routine for Male Skin

Moisturizing is essential for every skincare routine, regardless of gender (Image: Pexels) Skincare is not just for women; men need to take care of their skin, too. Male skin has unique characteristics that require a tailored skincare routine. In this article, we will explore the essential steps and products that men can incorporate into their […]

Common Skin Problems and Their Solutions

Dry skin is often characterised by itching, redness, and flakiness. (Image: Pexels) Our skin is a remarkable organ, serving as a protective barrier against the external environment. However, various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental conditions, can contribute to a range of common skin problems. In this guide, we’ll dive into some of these issues […]

The Importance of Mental Health in Science of Skin

The mind-skin connection underscores the importance of a holistic approach to well-being. (Image: Pexels) In the intricate dance between mind and body, the skin emerges as a canvas that reflects the intricacies of our mental well-being. Beyond its physical appearance, the skin serves as a powerful communicator of our emotional states and internal struggles. The […]

Navigating Skincare for Mature Skin with Grace

Mature skin tends to be drier as the skin’s ability to retain moisture diminishes. (Image: Pexels) As the pages of time turn, our skin undergoes changes that reflect the journey of life. While ageing is a natural part of this odyssey, embracing mature skin can be a beautiful experience with the right care. In this […]

Understanding and Managing PCOS and PCOD in Women

Regular cheque-ups with healthcare professionals are essential to monitor symptoms (Image: Pexels) In the intricate tapestry of women’s health, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) stand as significant challenges, affecting the lives of many. These conditions, often used interchangeably, share similarities but also have distinct characteristics. We intend to delve into the […]

Unveiling the secrets to identify and treat alopecia

Identifying and treating alopecia is a multifaceted journey that requires a combination of medical interventions, lifestyle adjustments, and emotional support (Image Courtesy: Pexels) In the intricate world of beauty and self-expression, our hair plays a significant role. However, for many individuals, the journey takes an unexpected turn with the onset of alopecia. This condition, characterized […]

Will the state impose curbs for New Year’s?

A medic puts up a notice at a COVID-19 testing centre of the district hospital after cases of COVID-19 sub-variant JN.1 were detected in the country, in Chikkamagaluru district. Karnataka is witnessing a surge in COVID cases. PTI New Year is just around the corner and people in India are all gearing up for the […]

A balancing act we must get right

Representational Image. Pixabay The healthcare industry is experiencing an unprecedented wave of digital transformation. Aided by technologies such as Electronic Medical Records (EMRs), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and more, healthcare providers are revolutionising the way they deliver services. This transformation is not merely about replacing paper with digital records; it’s about harnessing the power of data […]

Navigating the Adolescent Brain: Puberty and Neurological Development

The prefrontal cortex, often referred to as the “executive center” of the brain, undergoes significant development during puberty. (Image: Pexels) Puberty is a transformative period marked by physical changes, emotional shifts, and, notably, significant alterations in neurological development. As adolescents navigate this crucial stage, understanding the cognitive changes associated with puberty becomes paramount. In this […]

Parental Strategies for Handling Children’s Moods and Changes During Puberty

Puberty often brings about changes in physical appearance that can impact self-esteem (Image: Pexels) Puberty is a tumultuous phase of life, marked by physical, emotional, and psychological transformations. As children navigate this journey of self-discovery, parents play a pivotal role in providing support and understanding. Acknowledging and addressing the moods and changes during puberty is […]

Why Knowing CPR Could Be Your Most Important Skill

Life is unpredictable, and emergencies can happen at any time. Whether it’s a sudden cardiac arrest, choking, or a near-drowning incident, being equipped with the knowledge of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) can make the crucial difference between life and death. In this article, we explore the profound impact of knowing the CPR process and how it […]

The Art of Balancing Protein Intake for Optimal Well-being

Proteins are the building blocks of life, participating in an array of vital physiological processes. (Image: Pexels) In the ever-evolving landscape of wellness, maintaining a balanced diet stands as a cornerstone for overall health. Among the macronutrients, protein plays a pivotal role in supporting numerous bodily functions, making the art of balancing protein intake essential. […]

A surprising ally for mental health

Ice cream is more than just sugar and fat. AP In the realm of dietary discussions, ice cream often finds itself labelled as a guilty pleasure, synonymous with indulgence rather than health. However, beyond its reputation for decadence, ice cream possesses nutritional elements that can positively impact mental well-being. Surprising as it may seem, this […]

Is India on the cusp of another COVID wave?

In the winter of 2021, India detected its first case of the Omicron coronavirus variant, which then spread rapidly, fuelling a third wave in the country. Now, a year-and-a-half-later, the nation is once again witnessing a rise in JN.1 cases, causing people to worry about yet another COVID wave. On Wednesday (20 December), India confirmed […]

What are the symptoms to look out for?

Amid the festive season, COVID-19 has reared its ugly head once again. The number of coronavirus infections across the globe is seeing an uptick with many attributing the rise to COVID-19 sub-variant JN.1. On Tuesday, reacting to the rise in cases, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified it as a “variant of interest” separate from […]