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Poor Muscle Health Along With Obesity May Significantly Raise Type 2 Diabetes Risk: Study

/ Health & Wellness Community

A combination of poor muscle health and excess body fat may substantially increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, according to a new study published in the journal Diabetes Care. Researchers found that individuals with sarcopenic obesity—a condition marked by both obesity and reduced muscle mass and strength—face a considerably higher diabetes risk than those affected by either condition alone. The research, led by Zhongyang Guan, a PhD candidate at Curtin University in Australia, analyzed health data from 479,607 participants in the UK Biobank who were free of diabetes at the start of the study. During an average follow-up period of more than 14 years, nearly 32,950 participants developed type 2 diabetes. According to the findings, people with sarcopenic obesity were more than 3.5 times as likely to develop type 2 diabetes compared to individuals with a healthy body composition. They also had a 19% higher risk than people with obesity alone and a 91% higher risk than those with only sarcopenia. The study revealed that nearly 15% of participants with sarcopenic obesity developed type 2 diabetes within 10 years, compared with around 11% of those with obesity alone and only 3% of individuals without obesity or sarcopenia. Researchers also observed that the association between sarcopenic obesity and diabetes was particularly pronounced among women and adults younger than 60 years. Guan noted that while excess body weight is widely recognized as a diabetes risk factor, the findings highlight that muscle health plays an equally important role in determining an individual’s risk. The authors concluded that evaluating both body fat and muscle health could improve the identification of people at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Senior author Professor Mario Siervo from Curtin University’s Faculty of Health Sciences said healthcare providers should consider assessing muscle health alongside body weight. He added that maintaining muscle strength through regular physical activity, resistance training, and healthy lifestyle habits may help reduce the growing burden of type 2 diabetes, particularly as obesity rates continue to rise and populations age. Source: PTI

Poor Muscle Health Along With Obesity May Significantly Raise Type 2 Diabetes Risk: Study Read More »

One Billion More People Now Exposed to Extreme Heat Stress Than in the 1970s, Study Finds

/ Health & Wellness Community

A new study has revealed that nearly one billion more people across the world are now experiencing at least one day of extreme heat stress every year compared to the 1970s, highlighting the growing intensity, frequency, and duration of dangerous heat conditions globally. The research, conducted by scientists from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts based in the U.K. and Germany, suggests that governments urgently need stronger heat-health action plans, early warning systems, urban cooling strategies, and improved climate risk assessments to better protect populations from rising heat-related threats. Heat stress refers to the overall heat burden placed on the human body and is determined by multiple environmental factors, including temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation. Researchers used the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI), commonly described as a “feels-like” temperature, to evaluate how these combined factors impact human health. Published in the journal Nature Climate Change, the study examined global heat stress data spanning from 1950 to 2024 and found that both daytime and nighttime temperatures have significantly intensified since the 1970s. According to the researchers, during the 1970s nearly 55 percent of the world’s population experienced around 90 days of strong heat stress annually. In today’s climate, that figure has increased to 70 percent. Exposure to at least one day of extreme heat stress has also risen from 16 percent to 22 percent globally, translating into roughly one billion additional people being affected. The analysis further found that nighttime temperatures are rising faster than daytime temperatures. The 10 warmest nights recorded annually have been warming at an average rate of 0.32 degrees Celsius per decade, slightly higher than the 0.27 degrees Celsius increase observed during the 10 hottest daytime periods. Researchers also noted that extreme “feels-like” temperatures are becoming more frequent across every continent, with subtropical regions witnessing the sharpest rise in heat exposure. Areas including southern parts of North America, southern Europe, northern and southern Africa, as well as South America, are now facing up to 50 extra days every year of strong to extreme heat stress compared to conditions seen in the 1970s. The findings add to growing concerns over the accelerating impact of climate change and underline the urgent need for countries worldwide to develop stronger adaptation measures as extreme heat events become increasingly common. Source: PTI

One Billion More People Now Exposed to Extreme Heat Stress Than in the 1970s, Study Finds Read More »

India Aims to Eliminate Sickle Cell Anaemia Before 2047, Says President Murmu

/ Health & Wellness Community

Droupadi Murmu has expressed confidence that India will eliminate sickle cell anaemia much before the government’s 2047 target, urging all states to intensify efforts and spread awareness about the disease, particularly among tribal communities where prevalence remains significantly higher. Speaking at a government event in Omkareshwar, Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh, the President said that with collective participation from all states, the country is well-positioned to achieve its mission of eradicating sickle cell-related diseases ahead of schedule. She highlighted that since the launch of the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission in 2023, several major milestones have already been achieved, including the screening of over seven crore individuals aged between 0 and 40 years. The initiative has so far identified nearly 2.5 lakh affected patients and over 20 lakh carriers, making it one of the world’s largest genetic disease screening programmes. President Murmu also commended Madhya Pradesh for screening more than 1.25 crore people and distributing genetic counselling cards to a majority of beneficiaries. She emphasized that sickle cell anaemia should not be underestimated, as the hereditary disease passes from one generation to another, but can be treated and eventually eliminated through sustained intervention. The President praised the mission launched by Narendra Modi in Shahdol in 2023, describing it as India’s first nationwide campaign integrating public health, tribal welfare, genetic science, and digital monitoring. She noted that 17 states are actively participating in the campaign to help India achieve a sickle cell disease-free future. Source: The Hindu

India Aims to Eliminate Sickle Cell Anaemia Before 2047, Says President Murmu Read More »

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

/ Health & Wellness Community

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

Preventive Healthcare: Why It Matters More Than Ever

/ Blogs

For decades, healthcare systems across the world have largely been reactive—we visit a doctor when something goes wrong. But today, that model is rapidly becoming outdated. Rising lifestyle diseases, increasing healthcare costs, and the lessons from global health crises have made one thing clear: waiting for symptoms is no longer sustainable. Preventive healthcare represents a powerful shift—from treating illness to anticipating and avoiding it altogether. It is not just a medical approach; it is a mindset, one that prioritizes long-term well-being over short-term fixes. What is Preventive Healthcare? Preventive healthcare refers to measures taken to prevent diseases before they occur or worsen. This includes: Regular health check-ups and screenings Vaccinations and immunizations Healthy lifestyle practices (diet, exercise, sleep) Mental health care and stress management Early diagnosis and timely intervention At its core, preventive care is about staying one step ahead of disease, rather than reacting after damage has been done.  Why Preventive Healthcare Matters More Than Ever 1. The Rising Burden of Lifestyle Diseases Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer are now the leading causes of death globally—and in India. In fact, over 60% of deaths in India are linked to preventable lifestyle diseases.  These diseases often develop silently over years. By the time symptoms appear, significant damage may already have occurred. Preventive healthcare helps detect risks early and delay or completely avoid disease onset. 2. Early Detection Saves Lives Many serious conditions—like cancer, hypertension, and diabetes—show little to no symptoms in early stages. Regular screenings can detect these conditions early, when they are easier and more effective to treat.  Research even suggests that routine preventive check-ups can significantly reduce mortality risk, especially for chronic diseases. In simple terms: Early detection = Better outcomes + Lower risk 3. Healthcare Costs Are Skyrocketing Medical treatment today is expensive—and chronic diseases often require lifelong management. Preventive healthcare helps reduce this burden by: Avoiding costly hospitalizations Minimizing long-term medication needs Reducing emergency interventions India alone is expected to face an economic burden of over ₹511 lakh crore due to NCDs by 2030.  Preventive care is not just good for health—it is financially smart. 4. Post-Pandemic Awareness and Behavior Shift The COVID-19 pandemic fundamentally changed how people view health. There is now greater awareness around: Immunity and hygiene Regular health monitoring Importance of vaccinations Preventive healthcare has evolved from being optional to essential, as individuals increasingly take responsibility for their own well-being. Mental Health is Finally in Focus Preventive healthcare is no longer limited to physical health. Rising stress, burnout, and anxiety have made mental health screening and care equally important. Early interventions—like counseling, mindfulness, and stress management—can prevent long-term psychological issues and improve overall quality of life.  6. Technology is Making Prevention Smarter The integration of technology is revolutionizing preventive healthcare: Wearables track heart rate, sleep, and activity AI predicts disease risks using health data Telemedicine enables early consultations Predictive analytics can now identify at-risk individuals even before symptoms appear, enabling personalized and timely interventions.  This shift is transforming healthcare from generalized treatment to personalized prevention. The Indian Context: A Critical Turning Point India is at a unique crossroads: A young population increasingly affected by lifestyle diseases Rising urbanization and sedentary lifestyles Growing healthcare costs and infrastructure gaps Historically, India has focused more on curative care, but the trend is shifting. Preventive healthcare is gaining momentum, driven by: Increased awareness Growth of digital health platforms Expansion of diagnostics and wellness sectors The preventive healthcare market in India is also growing rapidly, reflecting a broader societal shift toward proactive health management. Key Pillars of Preventive Healthcare 1. Regular Health Screenings Routine tests like blood sugar, cholesterol, and cancer screenings help detect risks early. 2. Healthy Lifestyle Choices Balanced nutrition, physical activity, and adequate sleep form the foundation of prevention. 3. Vaccination & Immunization Vaccines remain one of the most effective preventive tools in public health. 4. Mental Well-being Stress management, therapy, and emotional resilience are essential components. 5. Health Awareness & Education Informed individuals make better health decisions—prevention starts with awareness. Challenges in Adoption Despite its importance, preventive healthcare faces several barriers: Lack of awareness and health literacy Cultural tendency to seek care only when ill Accessibility issues in rural areas Perception of preventive care as an “extra cost” In reality, the cost of inaction is far greater. The Way Forward: Building a Preventive Culture To truly benefit from preventive healthcare, a collective effort is needed: Individuals must prioritize regular check-ups and healthy habits Institutions should integrate health programs and awareness initiatives Governments must invest in accessible preventive services Healthcare providers should promote early intervention models The goal is to move from a “sick-care system” to a “health-care system.” Conclusion: Prevention is the New Cure Preventive healthcare is no longer a luxury—it is a necessity in today’s fast-paced, high-risk world. It empowers individuals to take control of their health, reduces the burden on healthcare systems, and ensures a better quality of life. The future of healthcare lies not in hospitals alone, but in daily choices, early actions, and informed decisions. Because ultimately, the most effective treatment is the one you never need.

Preventive Healthcare: Why It Matters More Than Ever Read More »

Diabetes Driving India’s Silent Liver Disease Crisis, Study Warns

/ Health & Wellness Community

A groundbreaking study has revealed that Type 2 diabetes is emerging as a major cause of advanced liver disease in India, often progressing unnoticed until it becomes life-threatening. Published in The Lancet, the DiaFib-Liver Study is the largest real-world research of its kind in a developing country, highlighting the liver as a critical yet overlooked organ at risk among diabetic patients. The study, which assessed 9,202 adults across 27 healthcare centres, found that nearly 25% of patients had significant liver fibrosis, while about 14% had advanced disease. Alarmingly, around 5% had already reached a stage suggestive of cirrhosis—despite showing no obvious symptoms. Experts note a shift in the primary causes of severe liver conditions, with diabetes and obesity now surpassing viral infections like Hepatitis B and C. The underlying mechanism involves fat accumulation in the liver, leading to insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, and eventual scarring. Interestingly, the research also challenges the belief that liver disease primarily affects overweight individuals. Cases were observed even among lean patients, with a phenomenon termed “burnt-out” liver disease—where fat diminishes as fibrosis worsens—making detection even more difficult. Given that liver damage often remains silent until advanced stages, researchers emphasize the need for improved screening. They recommend tools like the FIB-4 score, derived from routine blood tests, and FibroScan imaging for early detection, instead of relying solely on ultrasounds. Encouragingly, the study highlights that early-stage liver damage can be reversed. A 5% reduction in body weight may reverse fibrosis in many cases, while a 10% reduction can significantly slow disease progression. With India home to over 10 crore diabetics and millions more at risk, integrating liver health checks into diabetes care programs could be key to preventing a large-scale health crisis. Source: TNN

Diabetes Driving India’s Silent Liver Disease Crisis, Study Warns Read More »