Health

Planning parenthood via in vitro fertilization (IVF)? Stay away from outdoor air pollution, suggests a study. The study showed that exposure to outdoor air pollution can negatively impact human embryo development in IVF cycles. Researchers from Emory University, US, found that exposure to air pollution at times when a female`s ovaries are producing eggs (also known as oocytes) and when a male`s testicles are producing sperm can have a negative impact. “We saw that both maternal and paternal air pollution exposures during gametogenesis have independent, largely detrimental, effects on early embryological outcomes," said Audrey Gaskins, lead author and associate professor of epidemiology at Rollins School of Public Health at Emory. The team conducted research on samples from 500 anonymou...

Targeting nine key health conditions may be crucial for women’s health and add the equivalent of 2.5 healthy days per woman per year, according to new research released at the ongoing World Economic Forum (WEF) on Tuesday.   The new report shows that compared to men, women live one-fourth more of their lives in poor health. Focussing on the nine conditions, categorised as lifespan and healthspan conditions may be key to boosting their lives and health. “The nine conditions are divided into lifespan conditions, related to the total number of years lived (maternal hypertensive disorders, postpartum haemorrhage, ischemic heart disease, cervical cancer, and breast cancer) and health span conditions, related to how many of those years are healthy (endometriosis, menopause, migraine, and preme...

According to World Health Organization (WHO), around 50 million people worldwide have epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent seizures. It is also estimated that up to 70 per cent of people living with the condition could live seizure-free if properly diagnosed and treated. To raise awareness and combat the stigma around epilepsy, people associated with Epilepsy Foundation India participated in Tata Mumbai Marathon 2025. The aim was to educate everyone about this condition and encourage support, compassion and actions to improve the lives of millions of people. Dr Nirmal Surya, Founder Trustee and Chairman of Epilepsy Foundation, India said, “This is an NGO dedicated to working for people with epilepsy. Nearly 500 people from the NGO participated in Tata Mumbai Marat...

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by someone else’s emotions, or found yourself endlessly comparing your life to others’? If the answer is "too much," you’re not alone. American author, former lawyer and podcast host Mel Robbins introduces the ‘The Let Them Theory’.  Diving into the theory in her audiobook on Audible, she offers a profound yet simple way to break free from this cycle. This guide unpacks how two words—"Let Them"—can revolutionise the way you manage stress, relationships, and self-perception. If you’ve ever found yourself struggling to balance others’ opinions with your own needs, this theory could be the life reset you need. These transformative tips from Robbins aim to inspire people to make conscious choices, and for those ready to embrace this empowering mindset. 1. Managi...

Men are three times more likely to die from a traumatic brain injury (TBI) than women, according to a study on Friday.  The study based on US mortality data in 2021 reveals the disproportionate impact of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) on older adults, males, and certain racial and ethnic groups. The findings, published in the peer-reviewed journal Brain Injury, indicate that suicides remain the most common cause of TBI-related deaths. This was followed by unintentional falls, and specific groups are disproportionately affected by these tragedies. Men were found to be most likely to die from a TBI – more than three times the rate of women (30.5 versus 9.4). “In addition to men, older adults are especially at risk, with unintentional falls being a major cause of TBI-related death,” said ...

On the occasion of its ninth anniversary, Mpower, a unit of the Aditya Birla Education Trust and mental wellness provider, unveiled an in-depth analysis of mental health calls received through its toll-free helpline, Mpower 1-on-1 Let’s Talk (1800-120-820050).  This comprehensive analysis, based on over 1,00,000 calls, provides critical insights into the mental health concerns affecting individuals across India.  "The analysis reveals key trends, with 60 per cent of callers being male and 40 per cent female. Young adults aged 18-25 (35 per cent) and 26-40 (39 per cent) represent the largest demographics, reflecting the pressures of navigating academics, careers, and relationships. Relationship problems (33 per cent) emerged as the most common concern, followed closely by anxiety (23 per ...

An ageing brain in people with sickle cell disease may be responsible for cognitive problems, finds a study. Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder characterised by the presence of abnormal haemoglobin (Hb). People with the illness are also likely to face trouble in remembering, focusing, learning, and problem-solving. The patients face these conditions even without brain stroke. To understand, researchers and physicians from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis examined more than 200 young adults with and without sickle cell disease. They participated in brain MRI scans and cognitive tests. Each person`s brain age was calculated using a brain-age prediction tool that was developed using MRI brain scans from a diverse group of more than 14,000 healthy people o...

As Tata Mumbai Marathon 2025, one of the biggest sporting events in the city, approaches, thousands of runners are excited to participate in the race and accomplish their goals. While marathons are exciting avenues for fitness and perseverance, runners can be prone to injuries due to the pressure on muscles and joints. However, with proper training, good footwear and mindful pacing, participants can cross the finish line without any injuries. Appropriate training is essential to prevent health issues. Dr Nikhil Bhamare, Consultant Neurosurgeon and Spine Surgeon, Medicover Hospitals, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, shares the following tips for runners to prevent joint issues. 1. Choose appropriate shoes: Wear high-quality running shoes as per your foot type to provide proper support, cushioning ...

Researchers have identified three psychological profiles that can help estimate an individual`s risk of dementia, by analysing how characteristics, such as having a sense of purpose in life or constant brooding combine to influence the risk. Previous studies have suggested that psychological traits, such as a tendency for distress and negative thoughts, are potential risk factors for cognitive decline and neurodegeneration, while having a sense of purpose and self-reflection could offer protection against mental decline. In a study involving 1,000 middle-aged adults and older people in Europe without cognitive impairment, researchers led by those at the University of Barcelona, Spain, examined how the combination of risky and protective psychological factors form `psychological profiles`...

The Tata Mumbai Marathon 2025 is all set to take place this Sunday on January 18. While marathon runners are very excited for the event, the chances of having difficulties due to exhaustion or getting sick can never be ruled out.  While everybody has been doing everything right till now and following everything that they should do, Dr Aashish Contractor, director, Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine, Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital, reminds you about what you shouldn`t do to not only stay health but also safe. Follow these tips: Don’t run if you’re not adequately prepared You usually register for a race, several months before and sometimes are not able to train adequately. The temptation is to still show up on race day, and ‘see how it goes’; this is a dangerous thing to do. If you...