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Doctors Warn First-Time Adult Seizures May Signal Brain Tumours; Early Diagnosis Key to Better Outcomes

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Medical experts have cautioned that seizures occurring for the first time in adulthood should not be overlooked, as they may be an early warning sign of an underlying brain tumour. The advisory comes in the wake of World Brain Tumour Day, observed on June 8, highlighting the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment. According to neurologists and oncologists, late-onset seizures are among the most significant early symptoms associated with brain tumours. Doctors stress that even a single seizure episode in an adult warrants immediate medical attention and diagnostic imaging, as it could be the first detectable indication of a tumour in the brain. Specialists note that brain tumours constitute a substantial share of central nervous system cancers reported in India. Data from the Indian Council of Medical Research’s National Cancer Registry Programme indicate that outcomes can be particularly challenging in aggressive tumour types such as gliomas, underscoring the need for early detection. Medical professionals also highlighted the progress made in brain tumour diagnosis and treatment over recent years. Advancements in high-resolution imaging, digital technologies, and neuronavigation systems have significantly improved the accuracy of diagnosis and surgical planning, enabling more effective patient care. Experts explained that brain tumours can be either benign or malignant, with treatment strategies varying based on the type, location, and stage of the tumour. Modern treatment approaches, including surgery, radiation therapy, and other targeted interventions, have improved disease management and, in some cases, offer the possibility of long-term control or cure. In addition, the growing adoption of genomic profiling and genetic sequencing is helping clinicians identify patients who may benefit from personalised treatment options. These precision medicine techniques are increasingly shaping the future of neuro-oncology by enabling therapies tailored to the molecular characteristics of individual tumours. Doctors urged the public to remain vigilant about neurological symptoms and seek medical evaluation promptly, emphasizing that early diagnosis can play a crucial role in improving treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients with brain tumours. Source: The Hindu

Doctors Warn First-Time Adult Seizures May Signal Brain Tumours; Early Diagnosis Key to Better Outcomes Read More »

Kerala Reports 85 Confirmed Shigellosis Cases in 2026, Health Department Intensifies Preventive Measures

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Kerala has reported 85 confirmed cases and more than 70 suspected cases of shigellosis, a highly contagious bacterial infection commonly known as bacillary dysentery, as of June 7, prompting health authorities to strengthen preventive measures across the state. The disease, caused by Shigella bacteria, has been detected sporadically in all districts, with localized outbreaks reported in Wayanad, Kozhikode, Alappuzha, and Malappuram. In Wayanad, two students from Mar Baselios School tested positive on Monday, while several other children are suspected to have contracted the infection. Health officials have expressed concern over the vulnerability of children under five years of age, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. While most healthy adults recover without complications, the disease can prove fatal in high-risk groups. Kerala has recorded two child fatalities linked to shigellosis this year, one in April and another on June 6, both in Kozhikode. Shigellosis spreads through contaminated food, water, and surfaces, as well as through close contact with infected individuals. Symptoms typically appear within one to two days and include fever, diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal discomfort, blood in stools, and frequent painful bowel movements. The Health Department has urged the public to maintain strict personal and food hygiene practices, including thorough handwashing with soap before meals, food preparation, and after using the toilet. People have also been advised to consume boiled drinking water, avoid stale or raw foods, use ORS to prevent dehydration, and complete prescribed antibiotic courses. Households with infected individuals have been instructed to keep personal items, utensils, clothing, and bedding separate to prevent transmission. Recovered patients have also been advised to avoid serving food or attending public gatherings for at least two weeks after symptoms disappear. Food establishments have been directed to ensure hygienic food handling practices and verify the health status of food handlers. Authorities have also warned against the use of industrial ice in beverages. Health Minister K. Muraleedharan said the Food Safety Department has been instructed to intensify inspections and take action, including issuing closure notices, against eateries and street vendors found violating hygiene norms. Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Pinarayi Vijayan called for urgent and coordinated action by health authorities and local self-government bodies to prevent further spread of the infection across the state. Source: The Hindu

Kerala Reports 85 Confirmed Shigellosis Cases in 2026, Health Department Intensifies Preventive Measures Read More »

WHO Unveils $518 Million Emergency Plan to Contain Escalating Ebola Outbreak

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The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) have launched a six-month emergency response plan worth $518 million to combat the rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Announcing the initiative, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stressed the urgent need for financial support, political commitment, and community engagement to curb what has become the fourth-largest Ebola outbreak on record. The strategy will run from June through November 2026. Tedros warned that health authorities are still struggling to keep pace with the outbreak’s spread, emphasizing that effective containment will require sustained funding and strong public trust. According to the Africa CDC, the outbreak remained undetected for several weeks, allowing the virus to spread significantly before response measures were fully mobilized. The agency reported 381 confirmed infections and 62 confirmed deaths so far. The current outbreak is being driven by the rare Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which no approved vaccine or specific treatment currently exists. Africa CDC Director-General Jean Kaseya described the situation as the most severe Bundibugyo-related outbreak ever recorded. Kaseya noted that international donors have pledged approximately $315.8 million toward response efforts, though it remains unclear whether those funds will directly support the newly announced six-month action plan. He added that the pledged amount was revised downward after some donors updated their commitments. The Africa CDC officially declared the outbreak, Congo’s 17th Ebola epidemic, on May 15. Shortly afterward, the WHO classified the situation as a public health emergency of international concern, underscoring the global significance of the crisis. Source: Reuters

WHO Unveils $518 Million Emergency Plan to Contain Escalating Ebola Outbreak Read More »

90–120 Minutes of Weekly Strength Training Linked to Lower Risk of Death, 30-Year Study Finds

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A long-term study spanning three decades has found that engaging in 90 to 120 minutes of strength training each week may significantly lower the risk of premature death. Researchers reported that this level of resistance training was associated with a 13% reduction in the risk of death from any cause. Published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, the study also revealed that individuals who performed 90–120 minutes of weekly strength training experienced a 19% lower risk of death from cardiovascular diseases and a 27% lower risk of death from neurological conditions. However, researchers observed that benefits did not increase further beyond 120 minutes of strength training per week. The research team, which included scientists from Harvard University, examined data from three large participant groups, including the Health Professionals Follow-up Study conducted between 1992 and 2022. Among the 147,374 participants monitored over the study period, 35,798 deaths were recorded. Researchers noted that while the positive impact of aerobic exercise on longevity is well established, the long-term effects of muscle-strengthening activities have remained less certain. Their findings suggest that moderate resistance training over an extended period contributes to lower mortality rates, with benefits reaching a plateau at around two hours per week. The study also found that approximately 75% of participants exceeded the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity weekly. Aerobic exercise alone was linked to a 26–43% reduction in overall mortality risk. The greatest health benefits were seen among individuals who combined strength training with high levels of aerobic activity. Participants performing 30–44 MET hours of aerobic exercise weekly along with 60–119 minutes of strength training had a 45% lower risk of death. Those exceeding 45 MET hours of aerobic activity each week showed an even greater reduction in mortality risk, ranging from 53% to 58%, regardless of their strength-training levels. The findings highlight the importance of combining resistance exercises with regular aerobic activity to maximize long-term health and longevity. Source: PTI

90–120 Minutes of Weekly Strength Training Linked to Lower Risk of Death, 30-Year Study Finds Read More »

Bangladesh Measles Death Toll Climbs to 585 as Outbreak Continues to Spread

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Bangladesh’s measles outbreak has claimed two more lives, pushing the total death toll to 585 since March 15, according to health authorities. The latest fatalities, both involving children, were reported within a 24-hour period ending Sunday morning and have been classified as suspected measles deaths by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). With these additions, the number of suspected measles-related deaths has risen to 495, while 90 deaths have been officially confirmed. The outbreak continues to place significant pressure on the country’s healthcare system, with 1,324 new suspected cases reported over the past day. This has increased the cumulative number of suspected infections to 70,936. Meanwhile, 53 new confirmed cases were recorded, taking the total confirmed infections to 9,049. Since mid-March, 56,886 people with suspected measles symptoms have been hospitalised across Bangladesh. Of these, 52,841 patients have recovered, according to DGHS data. The crisis has also sparked concerns over vaccine availability. Last week, UNICEF revealed that it had repeatedly warned Bangladesh’s previous interim administration, led by Muhammad Yunus, about vaccine shortages that could lead to a widespread outbreak. Speaking at a media briefing in Dhaka, UNICEF Bangladesh Representative Rana Flowers said the organisation had sent multiple letters and raised the issue during at least 10 meetings with health officials between 2024 and 2026. According to Flowers, UNICEF consistently cautioned authorities that delays in vaccine procurement could trigger a major public health emergency. She further noted that UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Ted Chaiban had also highlighted the issue during discussions with Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry during his visit to the country last year. UNICEF has pledged to support the ongoing investigation launched by the current BNP-led government and provide relevant evidence regarding the vaccine shortage and the subsequent outbreak. Source: IANS

Bangladesh Measles Death Toll Climbs to 585 as Outbreak Continues to Spread Read More »

High Consumption of Packaged Foods Linked to Rising Blood Pressure Among Urban Youth: NIN Study

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A recent study conducted by researchers at the Hyderabad-based ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition has found a strong association between the frequent consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and elevated blood pressure among urban young adults, particularly males. The cross-sectional study involved 311 undergraduate students aged between 18 and 24 years from three colleges in Hyderabad. Researchers assessed participants’ dietary habits over the previous month using a 24-item food frequency questionnaire covering commonly consumed packaged foods such as biscuits, chocolates, and salty snacks — reflecting the changing dietary patterns among India’s urban youth. The study revealed that 12.5% of the participants had high blood pressure levels of 140/90 mmHg or above. The prevalence was notably higher among male students and individuals above the age of 20. After adjusting for variables such as age, gender, and socioeconomic status, researchers found that male participants and students from higher-income families had significantly greater odds of developing hypertension. Importantly, students consuming high-fat and high-salt UPFs at or above the median intake level were found to be independently more likely to have elevated blood pressure. Factors such as taste, affordability, and easy accessibility were identified as major reasons driving the consumption of these packaged foods. The research team included Karthikeyan Ramanujam, Abhigna Mahathi, Jarupula Namrathaa Pawar, Maheshwari Matla, Harichandana Ponnapalli, Vinay Kumar Soma, Keerthana Gajjala, SuryaGoud S. Chukkala, Mahesh Kumar Mummadi, SubbaRao M. Gavaravarapu, G Bhanuprakash Reddy, Jagajeevan Babu Geddam, and Samarasimha Nusi Reddy. Researchers observed that the frequency and type of UPF intake had a stronger influence on hypertension risk than overall dietary diversity. They noted that such health impacts are generally associated with older populations, making the findings concerning as they indicate that hypertension-related risks are emerging early in adulthood — a stage when the condition often goes undiagnosed. Although students residing in hostels showed slightly higher blood pressure levels compared to those staying at home, likely due to repetitive diets and dependence on packaged foods, the association was not statistically significant after adjustments. The findings align with trends reported in the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), which has documented a steady increase in hypertension among adolescents and young adults across India. Researchers stated that India is currently undergoing a nutrition transition phase, with young people increasingly shifting toward snack-based ultra-processed foods. The study, published in the latest edition of the journal Nutrients, stressed the urgent need to reduce consumption of foods high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats to lower the growing burden of non-communicable diseases. Researchers also recommended policy interventions such as higher taxes on packaged foods, restricting the sale of high-salt snacks near educational institutions, promoting affordable healthy food alternatives, and strengthening nutrition awareness programmes among young adults. Source: The Hindu  

High Consumption of Packaged Foods Linked to Rising Blood Pressure Among Urban Youth: NIN Study Read More »

India Advises Against Non-Essential Travel to Congo, Uganda and South Sudan Amid Ebola Surge

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The Indian government has issued a travel advisory urging citizens to avoid non-essential visits to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan following a growing outbreak of Ebola in central Africa. The advisory, released by India’s Health Ministry on May 23, 2026, comes after the World Health Organization classified the outbreak as a global public health emergency. The WHO had earlier designated the situation as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), citing a “very high” national risk in the DRC and a “high” regional threat level, while maintaining that the global risk remains low. Health authorities confirmed that the ongoing outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which there are currently no approved vaccines or specific treatments. Officials stressed the need for urgent containment measures, including surveillance, contact tracing, and rapid response systems. According to the latest figures released on Saturday, the Ebola outbreak has claimed 216 lives so far, while the total number of confirmed and suspected cases has reached 968. In response, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has intensified screening measures at major international entry points across India, including Indira Gandhi International Airport. Authorities have introduced targeted monitoring for travellers arriving from or transiting through the affected African nations. Airlines operating on these routes have been instructed to make mandatory health announcements onboard and distribute Self-Declaration Forms (SDFs) to passengers. Travellers displaying symptoms or those who may have come into contact with infected individuals are required to report to Airport Health Officers before immigration clearance. India has also strengthened physical screening measures at airports through round-the-clock thermal scanning and visual surveillance for fever-related symptoms. Dedicated isolation facilities and emergency ambulances have been deployed to ensure immediate transfer of suspected cases to designated hospitals. The Health Ministry further stated that all passengers arriving from high-risk regions must self-monitor their health for 21 days and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear, while fully disclosing their recent travel history. The WHO has repeatedly highlighted that Ebola control depends heavily on early detection, swift isolation, public awareness, and community participation. While effective vaccines and monoclonal antibody treatments exist for the Zaire strain of Ebola, the organisation has warned that similar medical countermeasures are not yet available for the rarer Bundibugyo variant. Source: The Hindu

India Advises Against Non-Essential Travel to Congo, Uganda and South Sudan Amid Ebola Surge Read More »

Everyday Movement Boosts Mood, Global Study of 3 Lakh Reports Finds

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A major international study analysing more than three lakh real-time mood reports has found a strong connection between physical activity and emotional well-being, revealing that everyday movement can significantly improve mood, while positive emotions also encourage people to stay active. The research, published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour, combined findings from 67 research groups across the world and involved data from over 8,000 participants. Researchers from Ruhr University Bochum and institutions across Europe and the United States used smartphones and wearable devices to track participants’ daily activities and emotional states in real time. The study monitored routine movements such as walking, climbing stairs, and household chores, allowing scientists to assess how physical activity influences emotions during normal day-to-day life. Researchers observed that physical activity was consistently linked to higher energy levels, more positive emotions, and improved overall mood. At the same time, participants were found to be more physically active when they were already feeling emotionally positive. Energy levels showed the strongest association with movement, with over 95 per cent of participants reporting increased energy around periods of activity. The study also found that individuals with lower levels of well-being experienced the greatest emotional benefits from physical activity. Co-author Amanda Staiano said the findings highlight the importance of studying health behaviours in real-world settings. She noted that even small amounts of daily movement can have a meaningful impact on emotional well-being. The researchers said the findings reinforce earlier evidence from laboratory and short-term studies that linked exercise with improved mental health. However, this study stands out because it examined physical activity and mood in natural everyday environments using digital tools like smartphones and fitness wearables. The team added that further research is needed to better understand the reasons behind individual differences in responses to exercise and to determine the exact causal relationship between movement and mood. Source: PTI  

Everyday Movement Boosts Mood, Global Study of 3 Lakh Reports Finds Read More »

WHO Estimates COVID-19 Linked to 22.1 Million Excess Deaths Worldwide Between 2020 and 2023

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A new report released by the World Health Organization has revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with an estimated 22.1 million excess deaths globally between 2020 and 2023, underscoring the devastating impact the crisis had on health systems and societies worldwide. Published in the WHO’s latest World Health Statistics report, the figure is more than three times higher than the officially reported COVID-19 death toll, as it includes both direct fatalities caused by the virus and indirect deaths resulting from disrupted healthcare services, delayed treatments, and strained medical systems. According to the report, the pandemic erased nearly a decade of progress in global life expectancy, with recovery remaining slow and uneven across different regions of the world. Despite the setbacks, the report highlighted encouraging progress in several public health areas. New HIV infections declined by 40% between 2010 and 2024, while tobacco and alcohol consumption also registered reductions during the same period. The number of people requiring treatment for neglected tropical diseases dropped by 36%. The WHO further noted improvements in access to essential services between 2015 and 2024. Nearly 961 million people gained access to safe drinking water, 1.2 billion received improved sanitation facilities, 1.6 billion gained access to basic hygiene services, and 1.4 billion people benefited from cleaner cooking solutions. Regional progress was also evident in some areas. The WHO African Region recorded a 70% reduction in HIV infections and a 28% decline in tuberculosis cases, outperforming global averages. Meanwhile, the South-East Asia Region was reported to be on course to meet its 2025 malaria reduction milestone. However, the report warned that several health challenges continue to threaten global progress. Malaria incidence has risen by 8.5% since 2015, moving the world further away from international targets. Anaemia continues to affect 30.7% of women of reproductive age globally, with little improvement over the last decade. The prevalence of overweight children under five reached 5.5% in 2024, while violence against women remains a serious concern, with one in four women worldwide experiencing intimate partner violence. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the findings reflect “both progress and persistent inequality,” adding that millions of people, especially women, children, and underserved populations, still lack access to the fundamental conditions required for healthy living. The report also expressed concern over slowing progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Between 2015 and 2023, the global UHC service coverage index improved only slightly from 68 to 71. Additionally, one in four people globally experienced financial hardship due to healthcare expenses, while nearly 1.6 billion people were either living in or pushed into poverty because of out-of-pocket medical costs in 2022. Childhood vaccination coverage also remains below global targets, contributing to renewed outbreaks of preventable diseases. Although maternal mortality has declined by 40% since 2000 and under-five mortality by 51%, many nations are still unlikely to meet the 2030 health goals. Progress in reducing deaths from non-communicable diseases has slowed considerably since 2015. The WHO further highlighted environmental and lifestyle risks contributing to poor health outcomes. Air pollution was linked to an estimated 6.6 million deaths globally in 2021, while unsafe water, sanitation, and hygiene conditions contributed to 1.4 million deaths in 2019. Yukiko Nakatani stressed the urgent need for stronger investment in primary healthcare, prevention strategies, and sustainable health financing to build more resilient healthcare systems. The report also exposed major shortcomings in global health data collection. By the end of 2025, only 18% of countries were reporting mortality data to the WHO within a year, and nearly one-third had never submitted cause-of-death information. Out of an estimated 61 million deaths worldwide in 2023, only about one-third included cause-of-death reporting, while just one-fifth contained properly coded International Classification of Diseases (ICD) data. The WHO warned that these data gaps severely weaken the ability of governments and health agencies to monitor disease trends, compare health outcomes internationally, and respond effectively to future public health emergencies. Source: The Hindu

WHO Estimates COVID-19 Linked to 22.1 Million Excess Deaths Worldwide Between 2020 and 2023 Read More »

PCOS Renamed as PMOS in Landmark Move to Improve Global Diagnosis and Women’s Healthcare

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In a major step toward better awareness and treatment, the condition long known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) has officially been renamed Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS). The disorder affects more than 170 million women globally, or roughly 1 in 8 women, and experts say the new name more accurately reflects its complex nature. The renaming initiative was the result of a 14-year international collaboration involving over 50 medical and patient advocacy organizations, including the Endocrine Society. The announcement and findings were published in The Lancet. Health experts explained that the old term “PCOS” often created confusion by focusing on ovarian cysts, despite evidence showing that abnormal cysts are not a defining feature of the condition. This misunderstanding frequently led to delayed diagnoses, incomplete treatment, and a narrow view of a disorder that also impacts hormones, metabolism, mental health, skin, weight management, and reproductive health. Professor Helena Teede of Monash University, who led the global process, said the new terminology is designed to improve recognition and long-term care for millions of women. She noted that although medical guidelines have improved over time, changing the name was essential to better reflect the science and lived experiences of patients. The consultation process included more than 22,000 survey responses, workshops with healthcare professionals, and direct input from women living with the condition across multiple countries. Experts also emphasized the importance of selecting a name that works across cultures and avoids unnecessary stigma, especially in regions where reproductive terminology can carry social sensitivity. A three-year transition period has now begun, with global education campaigns underway. PMOS is expected to be fully adopted in the 2028 International Guideline update. Patient advocates welcomed the change, calling it a historic moment that could lead to earlier diagnosis, fairer healthcare access, and stronger research investment for future generations. Source: Endocrine Society  

PCOS Renamed as PMOS in Landmark Move to Improve Global Diagnosis and Women’s Healthcare Read More »