Health

As the beauty and cosmetic industry evolves, many new skincare, haircare and hair styling products continue to flood the market. However, the safety of some of these products has come under scrutiny, in view of their potential health implications. A study conducted by National Institutes of Health (NIH) and published in International Journal of Cancer in 2019 had revealed a concerning association between the use of permanent hair dyes and chemical hair straighteners and an increased risk of breast cancer. The study found that women who used hair straighteners at least every five to eight weeks were about 30 per cent more likely to develop breast cancer. It also found that using permanent hair dye caused a 9 per cent increased risk of developing breast cancer compared to non-users. As mo...

The winter season brings several health challenges ranging from common cold to joint pain. Apart from these, a major health issue that can get exacerbated in the cold weather is the risk of strokes. According to a 2021 report by ICMR - National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research, stroke was the third leading cause of death and sixth leading cause of disability in India. Explaining how a stroke is caused, Dr Rahul Jankar, Consultant Neuro Physician and Stroke Specialist, AIMS Hospital, Dombivli, says, “A stroke is a medical emergency that can happen to anyone, anywhere and at any time. In this condition, the blood flow to a specific part of your brain is disrupted. This can further lead to the death of brain cells, which can impair your brain’s ability to perform various essentia...

As we step into 2025, the New Year brings not only celebrations but also a moment to reflect on the most valuable asset we possess-- our health. At a time when stress, poor diets, and sedentary lifestyles have become the norm, leading medical professionals are sounding the alarm on the pressing need for preventive healthcare. Neglecting our health doesn’t just take a physical toll; it also brings financial, emotional, and psychological burdens, leaving families vulnerable to preventable crises. Hyderabad’s renowned healthcare leaders have come together to share their insights on how people can safeguard their well-being and lead healthier lives. From managing stress and staying physically active to securing financial protection through health insurance, these experts provide actionable ...

Tea has been sipped for generations across the globe. While some rely on it for their dose of energy, some prefer its soothing properties at the end of the day. A warm tea can be a relaxing ritual to prepare for a restful night`s sleep. The key differentiator is the content of caffeine, which varies across teas. While black and green teas contain higher levels of caffeine which may delay or disrupt sleep, blends of herbal teas are potentially beneficial for relaxation and sleep quality. To better understand the science behind the calming effects of sleep-promoting teas, medical experts outline varying caffeine levels, and the types of tea which may help induce sleep. To help you leverage the soothing elements of tea, experts also share tips for a nighttime tea routine. Benefits of drinkin...

A significant milestone was achieved at the temporary hospital in the Maha Kumbh Mela area. Doctors successfully conducted their first delivery of a baby boy, bringing joy to everyone there. Under the leadership of Dr Gaurav Dubey, a team of three doctors carried out the delivery on Sunday. Dr Dubey, the Nodal Medical Officer of the Maha Kumbh Mela, confirmed the news, stating, "This marks the first successful delivery at the Central Hospital in Maha Kumbh Nagar." The 20-year-old mother, Sonam, gave birth to a healthy baby boy weighing 2.4 kilograms. The delivery was managed by Dr Dubey`s team, which included Dr Nupur and Dr Vartika. Both the mother and child are reported to be in good health. Dr Dubey expressed his gratitude to the dedicated team for their efforts and added, "This suc...

Adults in their 40s must undergo regular eye check-ups to prevent vision loss from glaucoma -- a chronic eye disease that can lead to vision loss and blindness, said an ophthalmologist at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi. Taking to social media platform X, Dr. Tanuj Dada, Professor of Ophthalmology and Head of Glaucoma Services at RP Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, said that early detection of glaucoma, which often presents no symptoms, is crucial. If left undetected it can lead to vision loss and blindness. “Glaucoma `silent thief of sight` can cause irreversible vision loss if left undetected. If you have no symptoms and are above 40 years of age, it is recommended that you get an eye check-up every two years,” Dada said. He explained that glaucoma or kala mo...

2025 is just few days away and several people have already set their goals for the new year. Health and fitness-centric resolutions often find a place in this list, with many looking to improve their well-being as they enter the new year. While some set specific goals based on personal health conditions, others just wish to improve their general wellness and maintain a healthy lifestyle. If you fall in the latter category, we have got you covered! In a conversation with mid-day.com, Dr Manjusha Agarwal, Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, shares five simple yet essential health goals that everyone should have in 2025. Essential health goals for 2025 Keep moving daily: Staying active is the key to a healthy lifestyle. Individuals are advised to eng...

According to a report published by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2023, around 17.5 per cent adult population (1 in 6 people) suffer from infertility worldwide. While the conversations around female infertility are gradually increasing, many people still don`t talk openly about male infertility because of social stigma and misconceptions. Declining sperm count is a major factor that affects male fertility. Factors affecting sperm health A lack of physical activity, unhealthy lifestyle changes, poor dietary habits, stress, environmental pollutants, addictions, among other factors, can impact sperm health. Toxic substances in the environment also play a role. Dr Ankita Kaushal, Consultant - Fertility & IVF Specialist, Motherhood Fertility & IVF, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, inf...

Cooking garlic and onions in vegetable oil at high temperatures can generate trans-fatty acids (TFA) and can prove to be detrimental to heart health, claims a study by Japanese researchers. TFAs are harmful fats that can accumulate along artery walls, restricting blood flow and increasing the risk of heart attacks. While TFAs are commonly present in processed foods, evidence suggests that they can also be created at home during cooking. Studies indicate that unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs), usually considered beneficial, can undergo trans-isomerisation -- a molecular reconfiguration that transforms them into TFAs when heated at 150 degrees Celsius or higher. To explore, researchers from Meijo University assessed the role of isothiocyanates and polysulfides -- sulphur-containing compounds...

The much-anticipated 4th Edition of Jupiter Marathon Thane’25 is all set to take place on January 5 in 2025. It will start at 5:30 am from Singhania School on Pokhran Road No. 1, J.K. Gram in Thane West. The marathon will have three distance categories - 5000 m, 10 km and 21 km. Participants can register through ticketing platforms. Organised by Jupiter Hospital, this annual event brings together marathoners and fitness enthusiasts to run for a greater purpose – raising awareness about the life-saving importance of organ donation. This year’s marathon will feature a diverse group of participants, including prominent figures from Mumbai and Thane, medical professionals, members of the armed forces, police and fire officers, as well as school students and community leaders. By coming togeth...