ArdorComm Media Group

Contact Us
Thursday, July 2, 2026 2:49 PM
logo
Menu
logo

Health & Wellness Community

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

/ Health & Wellness Community

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

/ Health & Wellness Community

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

/ Health & Wellness Community

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

/ Health & Wellness Community

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

/ Health & Wellness Community

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

/ Health & Wellness Community

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 »

WHO Chief Warns ‘Work Not Over’ After Hantavirus Cruise Ship Evacuation

/ Health & Wellness Community

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has said global efforts to contain the hantavirus situation are still ongoing, following the evacuation of passengers from the cruise ship MV Hondius after a deadly outbreak onboard. Speaking on Tuesday, May 12, at a joint press conference in Madrid alongside Pedro Sánchez, the WHO chief stated that while the immediate response had progressed, the threat had not fully passed. “Our work is not over,” Tedros said, adding that there was currently no evidence of a wider outbreak. However, he cautioned that the long incubation period of the virus means more cases could still emerge in the coming weeks. The MV Hondius has drawn international concern after three passengers died from the rare disease. Health experts, however, stressed that the current global public health risk remains low and said the situation should not be compared to the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic. Over 120 passengers and crew members were airlifted from Spain’s Canary Islands on Sunday and Monday. Many countries have adopted precautionary measures for returning evacuees, with most following WHO guidance that recommends a 42-day quarantine and close monitoring of high-risk contacts. In contrast, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States indicated that American evacuees may not automatically face quarantine. Acting CDC director Jay Bhattacharya said quarantine decisions would depend on individual circumstances. The handling of the ship also created diplomatic tension, as nations debated who would host the vessel and care for passengers. Cape Verde declined to receive the ship while it remained offshore near Praia, leading to emergency evacuations of critically ill passengers to Europe. Spain later permitted the vessel to anchor near the Canary Islands for evacuation operations, though regional leaders reportedly opposed the move. Defending Spain’s response, Sánchez said the world needs cooperation rather than fear, adding that nations must act with solidarity during such crises. Source: AFP Photo Credit: Reuters

WHO Chief Warns ‘Work Not Over’ After Hantavirus Cruise Ship Evacuation Read More »

Two Indian Nationals on MV Hondius Show No Symptoms as India Monitors Hantavirus Situation

/ Health & Wellness Community

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has confirmed that two Indian nationals currently onboard the cruise ship MV Hondius, where hantavirus cases were reported, are asymptomatic and remain under medical observation under international health guidelines. In an official statement issued Friday, the ministry said it is closely tracking developments and coordinating with the World Health Organization along with other global health bodies. Authorities added that preventive public health steps are being taken to ensure the safety of Indian citizens. According to preliminary information shared through the International Health Regulations (IHR) mechanism, eight probable hantavirus cases have been identified on the vessel so far. Out of these, five have been laboratory confirmed, while three deaths have also been reported. Officials stated that WHO was informed about the outbreak during the first week of May. The two Indian passengers onboard have not shown symptoms and continue to be monitored. The virus involved is reported to be the Andes strain of hantavirus, a variant found in South America that has limited ability for human-to-human transmission. Experts note that transmission generally requires close and prolonged contact. WHO has currently assessed the wider public health risk as low, though more cases may emerge due to the virus’s long incubation period. WHO is also overseeing response measures under IHR protocols, including diagnostic assistance, epidemiological review, and safe travel arrangements for passengers and crew. As a precaution, India’s Public Health Emergency Operations Centre under the National Centre for Disease Control and Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme held a high-level preparedness review meeting. Hantaviruses are commonly spread through rodents such as mice and rats, or through contact with their urine, droppings, or saliva. Symptoms may develop between one and eight weeks after exposure and often include fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. There is no specific cure for hantavirus infections, but early supportive treatment can improve outcomes by managing respiratory, heart, and kidney complications. Prevention mainly depends on avoiding exposure to infected rodents. Source: The Hindu

Two Indian Nationals on MV Hondius Show No Symptoms as India Monitors Hantavirus Situation Read More »

India, Japan Strengthen Healthcare Partnership at High-Level Delhi Meeting

/ Health & Wellness Community

India and Japan on Tuesday reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in the healthcare sector during the third Joint Committee Meeting (JCM) on Healthcare held at Bharat Mandapam. The meeting was co-chaired by Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda and Japan’s Minister in charge of Healthcare Policy Kimi Onoda. Nadda said the partnership is driven by a common vision of stronger health systems, better access to healthcare, and innovation-led progress. Welcoming the Japanese delegation, Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava highlighted that the Joint Committee Meeting, conducted under the India-Japan Memorandum of Cooperation, has become an important platform for regular dialogue and deeper collaboration. During the discussions, both countries focused on several priority areas including prevention and management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), resilient healthcare supply chains, digital health, and human resource development. India underlined the growing burden of NCDs and shared its strategy centred on early screening, continuous care, and long-term health promotion aligned with Sustainable Development Goals. Japan presented its work in cancer screening, early diagnosis, and treatment systems through technical cooperation. On supply chain resilience, India emphasised the capabilities of its pharmaceutical and medical devices industries, along with efforts to boost local manufacturing and affordable healthcare access. Japan outlined its public-private partnership model to ensure availability of high-quality medical products. India also showcased its digital public health infrastructure through the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, while Japan shared expertise in system integration, AI-enabled healthcare technologies, and collaborative research. Concluding the meeting, Nadda said the discussions have given fresh momentum to the India-Japan healthcare partnership and laid a roadmap for building more inclusive and resilient health systems. Source: PTI

India, Japan Strengthen Healthcare Partnership at High-Level Delhi Meeting Read More »

Wealthy Nations May Eliminate Cervical Cancer by 2048, Poorer Countries Risk Falling Behind: Lancet Study

/ Health & Wellness Community

High-income countries could eliminate cervical cancer by 2048, but low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are expected to witness only modest declines over the next century, according to a new study published in The Lancet. Researchers warn that unless urgent action is taken, global inequalities in cervical cancer burden will widen sharply. The study found that richer nations are making rapid progress through strong vaccination and screening programmes, while poorer countries continue to face slower implementation, limited healthcare access, and lower coverage rates. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, with nearly 99% of cases linked to high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, a common virus transmitted through sexual contact, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Prevention through HPV vaccination and regular screening remains the most effective strategy. WHO Elimination Targets The WHO defines cervical cancer elimination as reducing incidence to fewer than four cases per one lakh women. To achieve this, countries are urged to meet the 90-70-90 goals by 2030: 90% of girls fully vaccinated against HPV by age 15 70% of women screened by ages 35 and 45 90% of women with pre-cancer or cancer receiving treatment Researchers said meeting these targets could prevent 37 million cervical cancer cases globally over the next 100 years. Slow Progress in Lower-Income Nations The study modelled five HPV prevention strategies for LMICs, including a continuation of current efforts. Under the “status quo” scenario, cervical cancer incidence in these countries would decline by only 23%, while wealthier countries could eliminate the disease entirely by mid-century. However, if LMICs achieve 90% vaccination coverage among girls, many regions outside sub-Saharan Africa could also move toward elimination. New Hope Through Affordable Vaccines The authors pointed to recent advances such as lower-cost vaccines, single-dose schedules, expanded screening programmes, and vaccinating multiple age groups, which could make cervical cancer elimination more realistic worldwide. Including boys in vaccination drives may further strengthen prevention efforts. They stressed that stronger global cooperation, higher investment, and support from governments and international health agencies are essential to close the gap. India Outlook A 2022 study published in The Lancet Oncology estimated that a single-dose HPV vaccine with 90% coverage could prevent up to 78% of cervical cancer cases among vaccinated birth cohorts in India, with high-incidence states likely to benefit the most. Source: PTI Photo Credit: Getty Images

Wealthy Nations May Eliminate Cervical Cancer by 2048, Poorer Countries Risk Falling Behind: Lancet Study Read More »