health risks Archives - Page 3 of 4

Jan62025 by Editor DeskNo Comments

First HMPV Cases Reported in Bengaluru: Health Ministry Gears Up for Monitoring

Breaking News, Disasters, Environment, Fact Check

India reported its first two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Bengaluru. The cases involve a 3-month-old infant, who has been discharged after recovery, and an 8-month-old infant, currently recovering in a hospital in the Karnataka capital. Both infants and their families have no recent travel history, ruling out exposure from other regions or countries. The cases were identified as part of routine surveillance for respiratory viral pathogens conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). “HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with HMPV have been reported in various countries,” the Centre stated. The Health Ministry convened a meeting on HMPV preparedness today, emphasizing monitoring and con...

Jan62025 by Editor DeskNo Comments

8 Month Old Bengaluru Suspected of HMPV Infection No Symptoms Reported

Breaking News, Disasters, Fact Check

An eight-month-old in Bengaluru is suspected to have tested positive for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), based on a laboratory report dated January 2. The infant’s family had no recent travel history and the child displayed no concerning symptoms, according to sources from the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) health department. Although the Karnataka state health department has not independently verified the results, they have acknowledged the credibility of the private laboratory’s testing procedures. “We trust the accuracy of their findings,” stated a health department official. Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) identified in 2001 in the Netherlands, is a significant cause of acute respiratory infections, particularly in children. Globally, it accounts for about 0.7% of flu cases...

Dec312024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Each Cigarette Costs Men 17 Minutes, Women 22 Minutes of Life: Study

Breaking News, Environment, Learning & Developments

London: Smoking takes a far greater toll on life expectancy than previously believed, a new study from University College London (UCL) reveals. For men, each cigarette smoked shortens life by 17 minutes, while for women, the cost is even higher at 22 minutes per cigarette. These figures surpass earlier estimates, which suggested an 11-minute loss per cigarette. Commissioned by the UK’s Department for Health and Social Care, the study urges smokers to make quitting their top resolution for the New Year. The research concludes that a pack of 20 cigarettes robs an average smoker of nearly seven hours of life. Over a lifetime, smokers who don’t quit lose approximately a decade of life, according to Dr. Sarah Jackson, a principal research fellow at UCL. “Smokers lose about the same num...

Dec262024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Does Acetaminophen Influence Risk-Taking Behavior? New Study Says It Might

Breaking News, Fact Check

Acetaminophen, one of the most commonly used pain relievers worldwide, may do more than ease headaches it could also impact how people perceive risks. A 2020 study from The Ohio State University suggests that this popular over-the-counter drug might lower risk awareness and increase risk-taking behavior. "Acetaminophen seems to make people feel less negative emotion when they consider risky activities they just don't feel as scared," explains neuroscientist Baldwin Way, the study's lead author. Given that nearly 25% of Americans take acetaminophen weekly, these findings could have broader implications for decision-making and risk perception in everyday life. In a series of experiments, researchers tested the effects of a 1,000 mg dose of acetaminophen the maximum recommended singl...

Dec212024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Kolkata’s Air Pollution Woes: Is It the Next Delhi?

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Disasters, Environment

KOLKATA – As Delhi grapples with hazardous air pollution levels, Kolkata’s deteriorating air quality raises pressing questions about its future. Though Kolkata has not reached Delhi’s alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) highs, its current AQI of 150-200 (classified as "very unhealthy") highlights an escalating problem that demands immediate attention. With Delhi’s AQI peaking at an unprecedented 700 in some areas this year, emergency measures were implemented, including school closures and a return to masks reminiscent of the COVID-19 era. The crisis has underscored the urgent need for sustained action not just in the capital but across the nation. Kolkata, while geographically distinct, faces its own set of challenges that could lead to a similar scenario if not addressed proactively. ...

Dec172024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Study Warns Claims that Pet Cats May Trigger New Bird Flu Pandemic

Breaking News, Disasters, Environment, Learning & Developments

A recent study has raised alarms about pet cats potentially becoming carriers of the deadly H5N1 bird flu virus, which has devastated poultry farms in the U.S. over the past two and a half years. Published in the journal Taylor and Francis, the study warns that just one or two mutations in cats could allow the virus to jump to humans, posing significant public health risks. Bird Flu’s Hidden Threat H5N1, responsible for the deaths of over 100 million birds, has remained a limited threat to humans due to its difficulty in transmitting between people. However, scientists fear cats common household pets could serve as a bridge for the virus to evolve and spread more easily. The warning comes after the deaths of 10 cats in South Dakota earlier this year. Researchers found that the cat...

Dec102024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

H5N1 Bird Flu Scientists Warn of Potential Human Transmission Risk

Breaking News, Disasters

The H5N1 bird flu virus, a highly deadly strain responsible for devastating animal populations, is raising alarms in the United States as scientists closely monitor its spread and mutation patterns. New research indicates that the virus may require only one genetic mutation to become capable of human-to-human transmission, prompting heightened vigilance among public health experts. H5N1 is notorious for its lethality, with a fatality rate of 50% among infected humans. So far, human cases have been rare, typically linked to direct contact with infected birds, contaminated environments, or other animals such as poultry and dairy cows. However, the findings published in Science on December 5, 2024, by researchers at the Scripps Research Institute in California, suggest that the virus could...

Dec32024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Scientists Reveal Impact of Shifting Daily Routine by 5 Hours

Breaking News, Learning & Developments

A groundbreaking study has shed light on how our bodies respond to disruptions in daily schedules revealing a stark contrast in how quickly metabolism and sleep-wake cycles recover. The findings have significant implications for shift workers and frequent travelers who routinely face circadian desynchrony, a misalignment between internal body clocks and external environmental cues. The study, led by researchers investigating human circadian rhythms, explored the effects of delaying bedtime by five hours. It focused on how this modest disruption influenced sleep, alertness, and metabolic processes. Participants, aged around 45 and classified as overweight but otherwise healthy, experienced notable changes, particularly in their energy expenditure and blood sugar regulation. Circadian ...

Nov222024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Microplastics Found in Clogged Arteries Linked to Increased Stroke and Heart Attack Risk

Breaking News, Environment, Learning & Developments

Microplastics, tiny plastic fragments that infiltrate human tissues, have been detected in arterial plaques, raising significant concerns about cardiovascular health. A groundbreaking study published in The New England Journal of Medicine explores the association between microplastics in fat-clogged arteries and increased risks of stroke, heart attacks, and death. Led by Dr. Raffaele Marfella from the University of Campania, Naples, the study analyzed fatty deposits removed from 257 patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy, a surgical procedure to reduce stroke risk. Key findings include: Microplastics Presence: Nearly 60% of the plaques contained polyethylene, commonly found in plastic bags and bottles. Additionally, 12% contained polyvinyl chloride (PVC), used in pipes, flooring,...

Nov212024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Tamil Nadu Declares Extreme Heat a State-Specific Disaster: A Welcome Move with Caveats

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Disasters, Environment

In a significant step towards tackling the growing threats of climate change, the Tamil Nadu government officially notified extreme heat as a State-specific disaster in October. This decision broadens the scope of institutional mechanisms to protect those at risk of heat-related health issues or fatalities, offering a safety net for citizens during deadly heatwaves. However, while the move reflects foresight in addressing climate-induced risks, there are critical aspects that warrant closer scrutiny. Expanded Welfare Responsibilities By recognizing extreme heat as a disaster, Tamil Nadu takes on the responsibility to mitigate its effects, aligning with the broader mandate of public welfare. The notification includes proactive measures such as ensuring access to medical care, provi...