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 […]

How safe are sleep gummies for kids? Here’s what sleep researcher says – Firstpost

US-based online store iHerb has suspended sales of melatonin gummies to Australia. This comes after a rise in reports of non-fatal overdoses in Western Australia in children who took these popular supplements. This latest move raises fresh concerns about the safety of these non-prescription sleep aids. I have been a sleep researcher and a psychologist […]

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, […]

Was CDC director Susan Monarez fired for opposing RFK Jr’s vaccine policy? – Firstpost

The leadership of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been thrown into turmoil following the abrupt removal of its director, Susan Monarez, less than a month after her swearing-in. The White House announced her termination on Wednesday, but Monarez’s legal team has forcefully denied that she resigned or was fired. Monarez’s […]

Do you get safe drinking water? UN says 25% don’t have access to it – Firstpost

In 2024, 89 countries had universal access to at least basic drinking water, of which 31 had universal access to safely managed services More than two billion people worldwide still lack access to safely-managed drinking water, the United Nations said Tuesday, warning that progress towards universal coverage was moving nowhere near quickly enough. The UN’s […]

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 […]

How brain-liver miscommunication drives severe weight loss in cancer patients – Firstpost

A ground-breaking new study has highlighted the crucial role of disrupted communication between the brain and liver in causing severe weight loss that impacts a large fraction of cancer patients. Oncologists stressed that understanding the metabolic and neural drivers of this syndrome could be key to improving outcomes for thousands grappling with the physical and […]

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 […]

After billions spent, why is polio still spreading in Pakistan and Afghanistan? – Firstpost

For the last ten years, Sughra Ayaz has walked from house to house in southeastern Pakistan, urging parents to permit their children to receive polio vaccinations as part of a worldwide drive to eliminate the crippling illness. She often hears their concerns and objections. Some are rooted in daily struggles — families often prioritise essentials […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

A victory in progress as death rates tumble with new drugs, screening and prevention – Firstpost

The chances of getting affected by cancer increase as people age. Since the 1990s, the age-adjusted death rate related to cancer has fallen considerably read more The fight against cancer has been yielding results slowly and steadily. Data on cancer’s manifestations and treatment has painted a positive picture. Could that mean that the world is […]

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 […]

How a new ‘milestone’ technique could help chemo patients from losing their hair – Firstpost

For many cancer patients, hair loss during chemotherapy is one of the most emotionally difficult parts of treatment. For most patients, maintaining their hair is not just about vanity –it’s about holding on to a part of themselves—their identity, confidence, and a sense of control in the middle of something so uncertain. That’s why scalp […]

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 […]

US faces worst measles outbreak in decades amid falling vaccination rates under Trump – Firstpost

More than two-thirds of states have reported at least one case, with 27 outbreaks identified nationwide. Three deaths have occurred, two unvaccinated children in Texas and one adult in New Mexico, with dozens hospitalised read more The US is currently witnessing its worst year of measles outbreak since 1992, as the country has recorded 1,288 […]

How regular physical activity can help prevent cancer and aid recovery – Firstpost

In recent years, science has made one thing clear: exercise isn’t just about fitness, it’s a vital component in preventing and managing serious diseases including cancer. From cutting the risk of developing certain cancers to improving treatment outcomes and lowering the chances of recurrence, staying physically active has powerful, proven benefits. Dr. Arun Kumar Goel, […]

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 […]

Doctors call for pre-monsoon malaria vigilance – Firstpost

As summer sets in, doctors warn that heat, stagnant water and increased outdoor exposure are driving malaria risks higher. With the WHO flagging seasonal shifts and behavioural patterns as key contributors, timely prevention and awareness can help avert pre-monsoon outbreaks. read more As temperatures rise across India, health experts are raising alarms over malaria transmission […]

How AMH+ and other new tests are changing PCOS diagnosis for Indian women – Firstpost

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is rising among Indian women, especially in urban areas. This article explores its symptoms, diagnostic challenges, and how new tools like the AMH+ test offer accurate, non-invasive early detection—empowering women to manage their reproductive health more effectively and proactively. read more Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) has emerged as one of the most […]

How sickle cell disease quietly impacts childhood in India – Firstpost

Sickle cell disease (SCD) remains one of the most under-recognised genetic conditions affecting children in India with profound long-term effects on the brain, organs, growth and quality of life. While many associate the disease primarily with painful episodes, experts say the damage often begins quietly, early in life, and worsens over time without timely intervention. […]

RT-PCR test for Cabinet ministers? What rules are in place for rest of India – Firstpost

Experts have recommended maintaining Covid-appropriate behaviour, such as wearing masks, practising hand hygiene, and avoiding crowded areas. read more The Indian government has mandated an RT-PCR test for ministers meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi amid a rapid increase in the number of Covid-19 cases in the country, reported Times of India. The country reported […]

40 women using weight-loss drugs see unexpected pregnancies; prompt UK’s warning over contraceptives – Firstpost

The weight loss drugs, by mimicking gut hormones, effectively reduce appetite and promote weight loss, which can in turn boost fertility in women with obesity read more British health authorities have issued a warning to women using weight-loss medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro, urging them to use effective contraception after dozens of pregnancy […]

How Salmonella contamination spreads and what it means for consumers – Firstpost

Salmonella is a leading global cause of diarrhoeal diseases, often spread through contaminated food and water, including fresh produce like cucumbers. While most infections are mild, severe cases can be life-threatening, especially for vulnerable groups. Read here read more Salmonella is one of the four major global causes of diarrhoeal diseases, commonly affecting the intestinal […]

Four new Covid cases detected in Gurugram, total rises to 23 in latest surge – Firstpost

Four more people were diagnosed with coronavirus infection in Gurugram on Sunday, a health department official said. read more Four new coronavirus cases were reported in Gurugram on Sunday, bringing the total number of infections during the latest resurgence to 23, according to the district health department. Officials said 12 of the cases are currently […]

Why delay can be deadly in India’s fight against the disease – Firstpost

With over 100,000 cancer cases reported annually, India faces a growing health crisis worsened by myths, stigma and misinformation. Firstpost presents the expert’s view to debunk common misconceptions around causes and treatments—from family history to CAR T-cell therapy—emphasising that awareness, early diagnosis and timely medical action are key to improving outcomes and saving lives. read […]

Kissing spreads depression and anxiety, says new study. But why? – Firstpost

The research, published in Exploratory Research and Hypothesis in Medicine, examined the oral microbiome of 268 newly-married couples, the levels of cortisol in their saliva and their mental health. Here’s what the study found about kissing leading to depression and anxiety read more Can kissing spread depression and anxiety? It may sounds unbelievable, but this […]

How warming planet could trigger spread of fungi that could ‘eat you from inside out’ – Firstpost

Scientists from Manchester University have projected that Aspergillus, a common group of fungi present globally, could spread to new regions as the world heats up. These moulds can cause aspergillosis, a lung disease that could spread to other organs, including the brain read more A deadly fungus that causes millions of deaths annually will spread […]

Can a physiotherapist help you with your headaches? Here’s what science says – Firstpost

You might’ve noticed some physiotherapists advertise they offer treatments for headaches and wondered: would that work? In fact, there’s a solid body of research showing that physiotherapy treatments can be really helpful for certain types of headache. Sometimes, however, medical management is also necessary and it’s worth seeing a doctor. Here’s what you need to […]

Lifestyle changes alone won’t stop prostate cancer — here’s what else is needed – Firstpost

The recent revelation of former US President Joe Biden’s aggressive prostate cancer diagnosis has once again brought the spotlight to one of the most common cancers affecting older men. While prostate cancer is often treatable, Biden’s case highlights the complexities of diagnosis and the importance of timely screening, even for those who undergo regular health […]

How lifestyle changes can prevent hypertension from turning deadly – Firstpost

As hypertension emerges as one of India’s most pressing non-communicable diseases, lifestyle choices, early intervention, and public awareness have become critical in managing its growing burden. Several modifiable factors play a role in its onset and progression, from dietary habits and stress to sleep quality and tobacco use. The challenge is especially complex across various […]

How diet, exercise and sleep play a vital role in controlling hypertension naturally – Firstpost

Hypertension is a silent killer—learn the 4 warning signs you must never ignore. Discover diet tips, exercise plans & stress-reducing hacks to control high blood pressure naturally before it causes serious damage. read more Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because it develops quietly without obvious symptoms, yet […]

Is your child at risk? How climate change is worsening asthma and what you can do – Firstpost

Asthma affects over 260 million people worldwide, causing significant health and economic challenges particularly in low- and middle-income countries. While inhaled corticosteroids remain the cornerstone of treatment, underdiagnosis, stigma and unequal access to care hinder effective control. Emerging therapies and digital health tools show promise but addressing environmental triggers and ensuring equitable access to treatment […]

How cerebral malaria can turn a mosquito bite into a life-threatening emergency – Firstpost

Cerebral malaria, a severe complication caused by Plasmodium falciparum, can quickly escalate from a mosquito bite to a life-threatening brain emergency. Firstpost brings out an expert’s view on how the parasite invades the brain, the early warning signs like seizures and coma and why rapid diagnosis and intensive treatment are crucial to prevent permanent neurological […]

Why US is planning to remove artificial food dyes from cereals, candies – Firstpost

As the US edges closer to eliminating petroleum-based synthetic dyes from its food supply, the federal government — led by the Trump administration and United States Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr — is pushing for sweeping reforms that could transform the American food industry. Artificial dyes, often used to brighten cereals, […]

Is a desk job increasing your risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease? – Firstpost

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), now reclassified as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is emerging as a major health concern among young Indians, especially those engaged in sedentary occupations. Recent studies indicate a sharp rise in prevalence with lifestyle factors such as prolonged sitting, poor dietary habits and lack of physical activity being primary […]

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 […]

Spain goes back to school to fight obesity, to serve fruits, vegetables and fish to kids in lunches – Firstpost

Despite Spain’s reputation for its healthy Mediterranean diet, a 2019 study revealed that over 40 per cent of Spanish children between the ages of six and nine exceeded the recommended weight, with 17.3 per cent classified as obese read more Spain has waged a battle against obesity right from the developmental years of a child, […]

No more fillings or implants? Why world’s first lab-grown teeth are a big deal – Firstpost

Scientists at King’s College London have successfully developed a human tooth in a lab for the first time. The major development could someday lead to patients getting back their lost teeth, offering an alternative to fillings or dental implants read more While many animals can regrow their teeth throughout life, humans typically get just one […]

Parkinson’s striking younger Indians—what needs to be done – Firstpost

Once deemed a geriatric disorder, Parkinson’s disease (PD) is now emerging as a growing neurological threat among India’s younger population with early-onset cases escalating at an alarming rate. In the absence of a definitive cure, neurologists are advocating for prompt diagnosis and a comprehensive multidisciplinary management strategy to alleviate symptoms and enhance patients’ quality of […]

How deadly bipolar disorder is—why it cuts life expectancy by 10 years – Firstpost

Bipolar disorder, a leading cause of global disability, disrupts relationships, careers and daily life while shortening lifespans by over a decade. Dr. Sneha Sharma, a consultant psychiatrist and drug de-addiction specialist at Aakash Healthcare, unpacks the complexities of this condition—from recognising manic and depressive episodes to addressing stigma and the critical role of early intervention. […]

China’s modified virus therapy shows promise in last-stage cancer trials – Firstpost

A ground-breaking cancer therapy being tested in China is offering new hope for patients with advanced malignancies, particularly those who have exhausted conventional treatment options. The experimental treatment, HSV-1 VG161, utilises a genetically modified herpes simplex virus to target tumours directly while stimulating the immune system. The therapy was recently tested in a Phase 1 […]

Mounjaro, the injection to fight type-2 diabetes, draws global attention as new weight loss drug – Firstpost

Mounjaro, an injectable medication designed to support weight loss, works by imitating the effects of two natural hormones, GLP-1 and GIP, which help control appetite, blood sugar levels, and digestion read more Ozempic, the revolutionising weight-loss drug, has a new competition in the name of Mounjaro. Pharmaceutical joint Eli Lilly has introduced an injectable tirzepatide […]

How menopause affects heart health—and what women can do to stay healthy – Firstpost

As women around the world celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s crucial to shed light on an often-overlooked aspect of women’s health: the impact of menopause on heart health. Menopause, a natural biological transition, brings hormonal changes that can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. With heart disease being a leading cause of mortality among women, […]

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 […]

Study that reported microplastics in human brains might have relied on untrustworthy data – Firstpost

The images show particles extracted from postmortem human brain tissue, which were later analysed to identify their chemical composition. The duplications were initially flagged by an anonymous comment on PubPeer, a platform for post-publication peer review read more A well-placed study that was published in Nature Medicine last month used “duplicated images” to report high levels […]

What are these drugs? – Firstpost

India has banned the manufacture and export of two highly addictive opioids – tapentadol and carisoprodol after an expose found they were fuelling a public health crisis in parts of West Africa. India’s apex drug regulatory authority has asked the drug control authorities of states and Union Territories to withdraw all export NOCs and permission […]

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 […]

What is ‘polymicrobial respiratory tract infection’? What is next for the Pope? – Firstpost

Pope Francis’ hospitalisation continues as he is being treated with a ‘complex clinical’ condition, says the Vatican. He has been diagnosed with a ‘polymicrobial infection’ of his respiratory tract. What is this illness? read more Vatican authorities said Monday that Pope Francis has a complex infection in his respiratory system and will require more targeted […]

How eating from plastic containers can increase the risk of heart failure – Firstpost

A shocking study conducted by Chinese researchers, suggests that regularly eating from plastic takeout containers might significantly increase the risk of congestive heart failure. They found that plastic exposure can disrupt the gut microbiome—the collection of microorganisms that inhabit the human gut—and impact the circulatory system which can lead to heart problems read more Do […]

How ‘Devashis’ became ‘Deepshika’ for many losing hope and direction – Firstpost

Devasish Sharma, a bureaucrat by profession, made headlines in May 2020 when he undertook an extraordinary 2,731 km road journey from Mumbai to Guwahati. Leading a convoy of six buses, he accompanied 132 people—65 of whom were cancer patients, with the rest being their attendants. Among them were 40 women, including both patients and caregivers, […]

Cure for a damaged heart? Scientists say lab-grown ‘patch’ made of stem cells may hold key – Firstpost

Researchers writing in the journal ‘Nature’ say they have developed a ‘patch’ that can repair failing hearts. Results of the clinical trial, which took place in 2021, were published on Wednesday. A 46-year-old woman who had a heart attack in 2016 and later suffered heart failure was the subject. After 10 patches of 400 million cells […]

What is achalasia, rare swallowing disorder, due to which UK woman can eat only while standing up? – Firstpost

Imagine having to stand every time you eat to drink anything, not by choice but to avoid choking to death. This is the daily reality for 25-year-old Elise Baynard, a healthcare worker from Dover, Kent, who lives with achalasia—a rare disorder that affects the oesophagus. For Elise, what most people take for granted—eating—is a delicate […]

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 […]

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 […]

Is BMI enough to define obesity? Experts say it’s time for a new approach – Firstpost

Relying solely on BMI to diagnose obesity may be outdated, say global experts. A new report calls for a more comprehensive approach, introducing ‘clinical’ and ‘pre-clinical’ obesity categories based on fat distribution and health impacts. This framework aims to improve diagnosis, reduce stigma, and personalise care for the over one billion people living with obesity worldwide […]

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 […]

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 […]

What is Dinga, Dinga, the excessive body shaking disease leaving people in Uganda sick? – Firstpost

A bizarre and unsettling disease has taken hold in Uganda, leaving hundreds of people, mostly women and children, shaken—literally. Known as ‘Dinga Dinga’,  which translates to “shaking like dancing” in the local dialect, is a mysterious illness that causes uncontrollable body shaking and difficulties in walking. Though it has yet to cause any deaths, the […]

Study in Lancet – Firstpost

Bowel cancers are rising among younger persons aged 25-49 as compared to older adults, according to a new study published in Lancet. The findings are notable because cancer has traditionally been associated with advanced age. Therefore, the increasing instances of cancer among younger people is a cause of concern. In their paper titled ‘Colorectal cancer […]

The alarming rise in Alzheimer’s cases and its impact on global health – Firstpost

As cases of Alzheimer’s disease continue to rise across the world, concerns are growing about the impact of this progressive neurological disorder on individuals. Alzheimer’s, which impairs various brain functions leads to a severe decline in cognitive abilities, affecting memory, decision-making, and overall quality of life. The surge in cases is linked to factors like […]

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 […]

Delhi’s toxic air drives surge in nebulizer sales, one-third for children – Firstpost

Experts highlight that the toxic air, laden with harmful pollutants such as ozone, carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide is impacting not just the lungs but multiple organs, causing severe health issues among adults, children and even unborn babies. read more Air pollution is one of the greatest environmental risks to child health. The surge in […]

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 […]

What is this disease? – Firstpost

Labyrinthitis can lead to vertigo— a sensation of spinning— dizziness, nausea, and potential hearing loss read more World Health Organisation (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has been hospitalised in Rio de Janeiro’s Hospital Samaritano Barra da Tijuca, according to a report by local newspaper O Globo on Thursday (November 21). Tedros sought medical attention after […]

The disastrous fallout of Taliban’s suspension of polio vaccines in Afghanistan – Firstpost

Afghanistan is one of only two countries, alongside neighbouring Pakistan, where polio has continued to spread. So the news that the Taliban have suspended polio vaccination will probably have major consequences for the control of the disease in the country and the surrounding region read more The Taliban recently announced that they are suspending its […]

‘October heat’ is here. How does it affect your health? How can you stay safe? – Firstpost

Just as you begin to settle into the idea of cooler days and refreshing autumn breezes, October heat rolls in, making it feel like summer isn’t done yet. With unseasonably high temperatures and lingering humidity, this distinctive weather phenomenon follows the rainy season, particularly in tropical regions like India. Unlike the dry heat of summer, […]

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 […]

How should you place your arm during a blood pressure reading? – Firstpost

Researchers have found that improper arm positioning can affect the accuracy of blood pressure readings. The study is significant because variations in readings may result in an increased number of high blood pressure diagnoses and the prescription of unnecessary medications to patients. Let’s take a closer look. What does the study say? Researchers at Johns […]

What is hormone replacement therapy that Sanjay Bangar’s child underwent? – Firstpost

Former Indian cricketer and coach Sanjay Bangar’s son, Aryan Bangar, has been in the news lately — not for his profession but for his quest for self-discovery. Aryan has come out as a transgender woman after a gender transition procedure called hormonal replacement therapy (HRT). The 23-year-old cricketer now goes by the name ‘Anaya Bangar’. […]