Long COVID Symptoms makes many changes like hair loss, low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, etc in the body – a study report

A study reveals that the long Covid Symptoms make many changes in the body. It includes hair loss and reduced libido. Other symptoms included chest pain, fever, bowel incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and limb swelling. About 2 million people in the UK have persistent symptoms after COVID infection, termed long COVID. They commonly reported long COVID symptoms, such as fatigue and shortness of breath, which have a significant effect on people's daily activities, quality of life, and capacity to work. But long COVID symptoms are much broader than this. In a new study published in the journal, Nature Medicine  62 symptoms have been identified as associated with long COVID.  

Much of the initial work undertaken to understand long COVID has been among people who were hospitalized, but most people infected with COVID have been managed in primary care, therefore, it is known relatively little about long COVID in people with typically milder initial infections. In the study, it has been analyzed electronic primary care records from more than 450,000 people in England with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID, and 1.9 million people with no prior history of COVID, from January 2020 to April 2021.  Both groups were matched very closely in terms of their demographic, social, and clinical characteristics, then, scientists assessed the relative differences in the reporting of 115 symptoms to GPs. For those who had COVID, they measured this at least 12 weeks after they were infected. 

They found that people who had been diagnosed with COVID were significantly more likely to report 62 symptoms, only 20 of which are included in the World Health Organization's clinical case definition for long COVID. Some of these symptoms were expected, like loss of sense of smell, shortness of breath, and fatigue. But some of the symptoms that they found to be strongly associated with COVID beyond 12 weeks were surprising and less well known, such as hair loss and reduced libido. Other symptoms included chest pain, fever, bowel incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and limb swelling. 

These differences in symptoms reported between the infected and uninfected groups remained even after we accounted for age, sex, ethnic group, socioeconomic status, body mass index, smoking status, the presence of more than 80 health conditions, and past reporting of the same symptom. 

They also found that younger age, female sex, belonging to certain ethnic minority groups, lower socioeconomic status, smoking, obesity, and a wide range of health conditions were all associated with a higher risk of reporting persistent symptoms more than 12 weeks after COVID infection.

 Stay healthy, stay safe...

Are you Underweight? Know some healthy ways to gain body weight.

 On health grounds, it is mandatory to maintain a healthy weight. Both underweight and overweight can give adverse effects on the body and may prone to acquire many malnutrition or more nutritional disorders to the body. 

Being overweight can cause obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, and other health conditions and all of these conditions can damage different vital and important internal organs of the body and that can be fatal. On the other hand, if you are underweight, you might face issues such as low blood pressure, anemia, and low immunity among other tiredness, severe muscular pain, and other health conditions. It is, therefore, important that you maintain a healthy weight so that you don’t have health complications. 

Some people thought, that gaining weight is very difficult, however, on the practice ground, it is observed that gaining weight is too easy in comparison to reducing weight.  

Anyway, some people are interested to gain a little weight to look, not like a very thin personality. It is, however, important that you gain weight in a healthy manner and not just include all sorts of food in your diet to gain weight.

[Are you underweight? check regularly]

One more point I would like to add is that the genetic factors are also involved in making the body fatty or slim, although the genetic impact will not give more value if you are determined to maintain yourself healthy, it is seen in many cases that some people diet is very less in comparison to other but have more body weight whereas some are eating more but no gain of the body weight observed. There are many medical terminologies involving these conditions like imbalancing of hormonal secretion from respective glands like pancreatic glands. The pituitary gland, thyroid glands, etc, and to maintain the hormonal balances in the body or make the good function of the respective glad to work well with the appropriate amount of secretion of hormones, health screening followed by doctors consultation is very important. However, I will suggest a few ways that will help you to add some pounds if you are underweight. 

1. Add simple carbohydrates to your diet: If you want to add some extra pounds to your diet, it is recommended that you add a bit of carb to your diet and that could be some potatoes or a bit of rice that could help you add some extra kilos. 

2. Add smoothies and shakes to your diet: Smoothies and shakes have calories in them and consuming them can add to your weight. Also, they have good nutrients in them which is again a healthy option. 

3. Exercise: This might sound weird but yes, exercising is important for weight loss as well. When you exercise, you stop the accumulation of fat and work on muscle building which eventually helps in weight gain. 

4. Get good sleep: When you get good sleep, it helps to improve your metabolism and also helps in muscle gain which eventually adds to the weight.

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness program or making any changes to your diet.

 

Eating disorders in children and preventive meausres

Eating disorders are more common in young children and can be seen in any age group. Eating disorders mean problems with the way a child eats. It can be stressful for the parents to deal with the child having an eating disorder as it can impact them mentally and physically children with eating disorders tend to experience adverse effects on nearly every organ in the body thus, timely treatment is key to helping children with eating disorders. 

[Image showing Eating disorders]

According to Dr. Vrushali Bichkar, Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist at Motherhood Hospital in Pune's Lullanagar, there are many types of eating disorders that have been seen in children; however, the common and main eating disorders are under  

1. Anorexia Nervosa - This is an eating disorder wherein the weight of the child is below average for their age and height. Children with anorexia have a fear of getting fat or gaining weight. They tend to have a distorted body image, calling themselves “fat” even when very thin. Those with this issue tend to have mental health problems like mood disorders, depression, or anxiety disorders. Symptoms-  Bluish discoloration of the fingers due to a lack of oxygen, hair fall, fatigue, insomnia, fainting, and the absence of menstruation in teenage girls.

2. Bulimia Nervosa - Here, a child engages in episodes of bingeing during which he or she eats too much food and then purges, or tries to get rid of the extra calories. This means self-induced vomiting or excessive exercise, such as running on a treadmill for hours. Those suffering from it have anxiety and self-injurious behaviors. Symptoms-  Stained teeth, calluses on the backs of the hands or knuckles from self-induced vomiting, frequent weight fluctuations, and an irregular menstrual cycle.

3. Restrictive food intake disorder - If a child has this disorder then he/she is unable to or refuses to eat certain foods based on texture, color, taste, temperature, or even the aroma. Symptoms- The child may have weight loss problems, inadequate growth, and nutritional deficiencies. Here, a child may consume only a very narrow range of foods and refuse even those foods if they appear new or different.

4. Binge eating disorder - Having a binge eating disorder means the children will eat large amounts of food but do not attempt to get rid of calories once the food is consumed. Such children can be obese or overweight. 

Symptoms- They tend to have trouble coping with anger, sadness, worry, and stress. They will always feel guilty for eating a lot and not exercising. Causes: According to Dr. Vrushali Bichkar, genetics, stress and pre-existing psychiatric disorders can make a child prone to having an eating disorder. 

Treatment: “Psychotherapy, nutrition education, medical monitoring, and medications in some cases can help children with eating disorders,” suggested Dr. Vrushali Bichkar. 

Preventive measure - Dr. Vrushali Bichkar advised, “As parents, you need to speak to your child about unhealthy eating habits, encourage the child to eat healthy foods, maintain an optimum weight, exercise daily, sleep well and stay stress-free. Try to help your child to build a healthy body image, do not body shame the child. Do not diet around the child as he/she will feel that it is alright to skip healthy foods or even starve. So, make sure that your child gets all the essential nutrients from the diet.”

Make your children healthy and stay safe...

 

Pregnancy and skin care

Expecting a child and prepping to welcome a baby into this world is the most delightful feeling. However, pregnancy brings along tons of inconveniences. Pregnancy changes your entire lifestyle, including the skin-care products that you use. While the pregnancy glow is not news to many, not every woman experiences that due to hormonal changes some pregnant women struggle with blemishes and acne during pregnancy, leading to taking extra care of their skin. This is because the ingredients of the products get absorbed into your body and might harm the unborn child.  

[Pregnancy and skin care]

    

Dry skin is normal during pregnancy as the unborn child consumes water from whatever you eat or drink. Hence, it is crucial to stay hydrated as well as keep your skin moisturized all the time. Products containing shea butter, coconut oil, cocoa butter, peptides, and hyaluronic acid can be helpful in such a scenario. Once your skin is moisturized properly, its elasticity increases, which automatically helps with the stretch marks.        

Some of the common but important issues are listed below and to combat that skin problems during pregnancy are also given-:

Anti-aging or wrinkles- For common issues like anti-aging and wrinkles, you can rely on antioxidants and Vitamin C works like magic in such scenarios. Apart from safely enhancing your skin’s vitality, it protects it from any further damage and maintains collagen. Apart from Vitamin C, some of the pregnancy-safe antioxidants are Vitamin K, Vitamin E, Green tea, and Vitamin B3.

Sun protection- The importance of sunscreen can’t be stressed enough. However, it is crucial to use mineral-based sunscreen with SPF 50 and above. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are two components included in mineral-based sunscreen. 

Acne and hyperpigmentation- It is safe to avoid glycolic acid from your routine when you are pregnant, women struggling with acne and hyperpigmentation can use it in small quantities, which isn’t harmful. However, it is advisable to once consult an expert before using it.

Stay healthy, stay safe...

Healthy cardiovascular lifestyle may reduce risk of stroke- Recent Medical Outcome

As we know Genes and lifestyle factors together play a role in stroke risk. According to new research published today in the Journal of the American Heart Association. "People at high risk for stroke, adopting a healthy cardiovascular lifestyle may significantly lower the risk of stroke in their lifetime" According to Senior study author Myriam Fornage, Ph.D., FAHA, professor of molecular medicine and human genetics at the Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas, Health Science Center, Houston, a well-managed, modifiable risk factors, especially the treatment of hypertension, can noticeably lower an individual's risk of stroke,"     

"He confirmed that they may be able to mitigate the lifetime risk of stroke by modifying other risk factors and that regardless of genetics—whether you have a high polygenic risk score or low polygenic risk score—maintaining good cardiovascular health decreases the lifetime risk of stroke. So, modifiable risk factors are crucial in preventing stroke." For the study, researchers reviewed data from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study, a community-based study of more than 11,500 white and Black adults over the age of 45, who had no history of stroke at enrollment. Study participants were followed for 28 years; 45% were men, and 55% were women.         

Researchers estimated the lifetime risk of a first stroke according to levels of genetic risk based on a stroke polygenic risk score. Polygenic risk scores were derived from over 3 million genetic variants, or single-nucleotide polymorphisms, across the whole genome. Participants were categorized as having either low, intermediate, or high genetic risk based on an analysis of how many stroke-related single-nucleotide polymorphisms they had.  

The researchers investigated the potential impact of the American Heart Association's Life's Simple 7.  Life's Simple 7 scores are a composite measure of seven modifiable cardiovascular disease risk factors: smoking status, physical activity, healthy diet, body mass index, total cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose levels. Cardiovascular health is categorized as optimal, average, or inadequate based on each participant's total score of ideal cardiovascular health components according to Life's Simple 7. For this analysis, Life's Simple 7 scores were combined with the polygenic risk score to estimate lifetime stroke risk.     

This study used the American Heart Association's Life's Simple 7 metrics, which were established in 2010. On June 29, 2022, the organization expanded and relaunched the recommendations to Life's Essential 8, adding sleep as an additional component of heart health."

This is the first step in using genetic information to identify people who may be at higher risk for stroke, and also in motivating people to make lifestyle changes for cardiovascular disease prevention," Fornage said. "This type of study shows us the possibilities for the future. Polygenic risk scores are not used clinically at this point; however, this may be the first step towards achieving personalized risk information to be used in lifestyle and health change. Having optimal cardiovascular health is crucial in stroke prevention."     

The authors note that one major limitation of the study is that a polygenic risk score is a tool that needs improvement before it can be used broadly. The tool was developed and validated only among people who are white, which means it cannot be used to predict stroke risk accurately in people from diverse racial or ethnic backgrounds. 

The outcome of the study: 

1. At age 45, study participants with the lowest polygenic risk scores had the lowest lifetime risk of stroke, 9.6%. The lifetime risk of stroke was 13.8% for participants with an intermediate polygenic risk score and 23.2% for participants with a high polygenic risk score. 

2. Those with both high genetic risk for stroke and low cardiovascular health had the highest lifetime risk of stroke score of 24.8%. 

3. Across all polygenic risk score categories (low, intermediate, and high), people with optimal cardiovascular health had the most significant reduction in lifetime risk of stroke. Participants who had a high polygenic risk and optimal cardiovascular health were observed to mitigate their lifetime risk of stroke by up to 43%, compared to those with inadequate cardiovascular health. This translated into about six additional years without a stroke.

Recent study on Covid - 19 patient : Sore throat, dry cough may persist for long time even after recovery...

The campaign for booster doses to prevent from covid - 19 has been speeding up as the omicron virus has become the dominant variant in circulation. It has been seen the infection is very much involved with the upper respiratory tract infection, sore throat, and irritation. 

The patient is observed to see very normal except for the aforesaid symptoms but after a couple of days of infection, mild fever up to 101 Foernheit has been seen with severe calf muscle pain and body pain. The fever is seen subsidizing within 4 days by using paracetamol tablets under a doctor's prescription along with some other supplementary medicines for boosting the immune. It has also been seen that an affected person with Omicron virus is prone to invite some other seasonal as well as post covid infection.

Dry cough and throat irritation has been seen to persist in the patient suffering from Omicron virus. The upper respiratory tract is very much affected. It has been practically observed to the patient once the fever is subsidized they gradually start coughing with or without sputum. People who are about 40 years of age have been found with severe wheezing complaints along with severe sinusitis. 

As we know that after Covid-19, the immune system of the patient becomes very weak and there are many chances of other diseases in which cold-like symptoms are very common due to the growth of the bacteria in the respiratory tract and around the throat region. 

The persisting cough and growing bacteria may cause disturbance in the regular and routine life, although, this is not taken as important significance among the doctors and left out without considering to give treatment; however, if the cough and wheezing symptoms persist and throat infection or irritation is still there, it would be better to approach a physician, who may give some antibiotics along with immune boosting tablets to stop the growth of the harmful bacteria in the respiratory tract and lungs. 

The long-term cough should not be left untreated, it might convert into some other respiratory diseases, so, be aware, and take care of your health. 

Stay healthy, stay safe...      

Loss of 'Y' Chromosome in Men and Risk of Heart Failure

The Y chromosome is one of the two sex chromosomes in humans (the other is the X chromosome). The sex chromosomes form one of the 23 pairs of human chromosomes in each cell. The Y chromosome spans more than 59 million building blocks of DNA (base pairs) and represents almost 2 percent of the total DNA in cells. Geneticists have discovered that all human embryos start life as females, as do all embryos of mammals. About the 2nd month, the fetal tests elaborate enough androgens to offset the maternal estrogens and maleness develops.'Y' Chromosomes are also known as sex determination chromosomes.

[Chromosomes pairs in Female & Male]

According to the results of a study published in Science, it is presumed that the loss of the Y chromosome in white blood cells can cause fibrosis in the heart resulting in impaired heart function and develop severe cardiovascular disease in men; however, the causal relationship with CVD and Y chromosome is still not clearly identified. 

This study established a causal relationship when investigators from Uppsala University used the gene-editing tool, CRISPR, to generate mouse models with mLOY in their white blood cells. They found that mosaic loss of Y (mLOY) caused direct damage to the animals’ organs and that mice with mLOY had shorter survival than mice without mLOY. 

“In the mouse models used in the study, the mouse 'Y ' chromosome was eliminated to mimic the human mLOY condition and had analyzed the direct consequences that this had,” Lars Forsberg, associate professor at the department of immunology, genetics, and pathology at Uppsala University, said in a statement. “Examination of mice with mLOY showed increased scarring of the heart, known as fibrosis. We see that mLOY causes fibrosis which leads to a decline in heart function,” Forsberg said. Investigators also were able to corroborate the causal effect in mice via epidemiological studies in humans. They found that mLOY was a new significant risk factor for death from CVD in men. 

They found that men with mLOY in their blood at the start of the study displayed an approximately 30% increased risk of dying from heart failure and other types of CVD during the 11 years of follow-up. “ It has also been seen that men with a higher proportion of white blood cells with mLOY in the blood have a greater risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. 

This observation is in line with the results from the mouse model and suggests that mLOY has a direct physiological effect also in humans,” Forsberg said. These studies were performed using data from the United Kingdom Biobank, a database with genomic and health information from half a million normally aging individuals aged 40 to 70 years at the start of the study. 

The study described the mechanism by which mLOY in the blood causes disease in other organs and further identifies a possible treatment. Additionally, mLOY in a certain type of white blood cell in the heart of mice, called cardiac macrophages, stimulates a known signaling pathway that leads to increased fibrosis. When the research blocked the pathway, the pathological changes in the heart could be reversed. 

“The link between mLOY and fibrosis is very interesting, especially given the new treatment strategies for heart failure, pulmonary fibrosis, and certain cancers that aim to counteract the onset of fibrosis. Men with mLOY could be a patient group that responds particularly well to such treatment,” Forsberg said.

Diabetes patient has more risk to Tuberculosis....

The National Institute of Health has confirmed that a diabetic patient has more risk of tuberculosis than a common person. The NIH Scientist and Scientific Director,  ICER stated that diabetes can increase the risk of TB and vice versa. Both diseases can pace up each other's occurrence, the scientist confirmed. 

They told that diabetes even can worsen the situation while treating TB patients. There is an increased risk of TB replace even after being cured in the presence of diabetes. Diabetics can give the worst effect in treating TB patients said the scientist. 

In Chennai, a pioneer study has been conducted by Professor M. Vishwanathan, Diabetic Research Centre (MVDRC) has shown that over fifty percent of the people with TB are either Diabetics or pre-diabetics. ICER- INDIA, MVDRC, and ICMR-NIRT have also done studies on whether TB can trigger the onset of diabetes in TB patients. Dr. Babu explained, " TB can triger a process called stress-induced hyperglycemia and hence increase diabetes risk n non-diabetic individuals".

He further added that several studies including many of his clinical trials have shown the impact of diabetes on TB. TB may also increase the chances of developing severe complications with diabetics. 

Researchers told that TB is curable but it may take a longer time and more intensive care more than a couple of years even after completing treatment. It is also told by them that the lungs of the TB patient recover more slowly due to expansive damage to the lungs caused by the TB bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis responsible for damaging the lungs. Diabetes is a chronic disease in which either the pancreas does not produce a sufficient amount of insulin or the body organs do not effectively utilize the insulin produced in the body.  

  

Be aware, these drugs may reduce your sex desire…

As we know sex is one of the most beautiful and marvelous gifts that nature has blessed us with. Not only for procreation and increasing pedigree but sex is also considered the best way to feel the extreme ecstasy of the entire being and feel the intimacy with your loved one. 

{Avoiding intimacy}

Have you ever felt suddenly dropped down in the desire for sex with your partner? There are many physical and mental factors involved and among them the major and most common factor is drugs. Doctors always prescribe medicine by taking your clinical history and for certain limits but making a habit of taking medicines on your own as self-medication is very dangerous, it may affect the potency of the sexual organs resulting in disagreement of the sexual desire each other. 

These drugs are- 

Blood Pressure Medications: Blood pressure medications are used to lower the pressure of blood inside blood vessels so the heart doesn’t have to work as hard to pump blood throughout the body. While high blood pressure in itself can lead to sexual dysfunction, many drugs used to treat this condition also can increase sexual difficulties. In men, the decreased blood flow can reduce desire and interfere with erections and ejaculation. In women, it can lead to vaginal dryness, a decrease in desire, and difficulties achieving orgasm. 

Birth Control Pills: Condoms for men are considered to be the safest and most effective contraceptives with no side effects. But many men refuse to wear them as it reportedly reduces the pleasure and the feel. Hence, women have to take up the responsibility with oral contraceptives, or birth control pills. These pills can lower levels of sex hormones affecting the libido and desire for sex. 

Anti-depressants:   Anti-depressants provide much relief in the condition of depression but unfortunately can lower the libido. The most common symptoms of anti-depressants related to loss of libido are loss of interest in sex, delayed orgasm, delayed ejaculation or no orgasm, no ejaculation at all, and erectile dysfunction in men. 

Statins and Fibrates: Statins and fibrates are used to treat the condition of high cholesterol. These drugs limit the availability of cholesterol and mostly interfere with the production of testosterone, estrogen, and other sex hormones. Few studies about the side effects of statins and fibrates have concluded that both classes of drugs may cause erectile dysfunction.  

Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines, commonly known as tranquilizers are used to treat anxiety, insomnia, agitation, and muscle spasms. The sedative and muscle-relaxant properties of benzodiazepines affect sexual interest, excitement, and sensation. They may also interfere with the production of testosterone. The most common side-effects of benzodiazepines are weakened orgasms, painful sexual intercourse, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculation problems. 

Antihistamines: Antihistamines are mainly used to control symptoms associated with allergic reactions, such as incessant sneezing and running nose. Antihistamines can cause erectile dysfunction or ejaculation problems in men and vaginal dryness in women. 

Proscar: Proscar is used to treat enlarged prostate. The active ingredient in Proscar is finasteride, which prevents testosterone from converting into its active form. Lack of testosterone means a lack of libido. 

PsychiatricMedicinesAntipsychotics: These are used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other serious psychiatric conditions. Antipsychotics block dopamine, a brain chemical that regulates emotional responses and the brain’s reward and pleasure centers. They also increase levels of the hormone prolactin, which can lead to erectile dysfunction, reduced libido, and difficulties achieving orgasm. Antipsychotics block the action of acetylcholine, which can lead to problems in all areas of sexual function. 

Stay Healthy, stay safe...

Woman of above age 40 should make MAMMOGRAM- an important part of master health check up...

It has been seen that the ladies especially home maker ladies are not taking care well about their health. The lacunae have been seen from both sides husband and wife. The husband should induce their partner to make a compulsory check-up when a lady is 40 or above the age of 40 as there are many chances of an imbalance of body hormones that directly impact the health of a woman. 

[A technician performing a Mammogram]

Whole-body health check-up is highly recommended for everyone based on age. They are below 40, the master health check can be done every third of the year but after 40 it is yearly recommended. Among the health checkup, mammogram screening nowadays becomes the most important part of the lady after the age of 40. 

Though there are many reasons to develop breast cancer but avoiding breastfeeding the child and untouchability to their mate in order to maintain their physical fitness is most common. Wearing tight bras and chudidar round the clock is also very harmful, especially for working ladies. At least 5-7 hours, of free and loose wear is highly required to maintain the body in natural conditions. The food style is also one of the important reasons to get an issue like breast cancer.    

If you plan to get a master health check-up and you are a lady, also touching age 40 or above, please have a breast screening. The Mammogram is nowadays easy, simple, and takes just a few minutes to give you smily life.

Why it is too important to have Mammogram? 

1. Finding breast cancer early reduces your risk by 25-30% or more

2. Self-exams can’t detect early cancer. While you should always conduct regular breast self-exams, a mammogram is still necessary. It can detect cancer up to three years before a lump in the breast can be detected manually.

3. About 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer in their lives, and about 85% of breast cancers occur in women who have no family history. At this time, routine screening is not done for males, however. If you have a family history, find a lump, or have a concern, consult your doctor.

4. Your risk increases with age. Age is the strongest risk factor. Most women develop breast cancer after 50. As you age, it becomes increasingly more important to have a mammogram each year.

5. Regular mammograms help your doctor monitor your breasts. Changes in breast tissue can alert radiologists to early signs of breast cancer.  

6. It’s a simple procedure. While a mammogram may cause brief discomfort, it’s a very quick procedure. Most women will be in and out of the office in less than an hour. This is a small investment when it comes to saving your life.      

Important precautions are taken before going for a mammogram -

• Don’t use deodorant before your mammogram. Avoid using deodorants, antiperspirants, powders, lotions, creams, or perfumes under your arms or on your breasts. Metallic particles in powders and deodorants could be visible on your mammogram and affect the clarity of the image.
• Be sure to tell your technician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. In general, women will not be able to receive a mammogram at this time, but your physician can order an alternate screening method, if necessary.
• Timing if tender: For many women, breasts are most likely to be tender the week before and the week during your period. Typically, this is not the most comfortable time for a mammogram.
• Dress for success: You will be given a gown and asked to remove neck jewelry and clothing from the waist up. To make this easier, wear a two-piece outfit that day.
• Know your history: Be prepared to tell your technician the date of your last menstrual cycle, if you have had previous breast biopsies or surgery or if you are experiencing any problems.
• Choose a certified facility: Choose a facility that is not only certified but one that performs thousands of mammograms each year. Ask if your scan will be read by a board-certified radiologist.

 

IIT Madras developed an AI tool for personalised cancer diagnosis

According to the World Health Organization, cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide and accounted for nearly one in six deaths in 2020. 

Cancer is an uncontrolled growth of cells that can occur due to mutations in oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes or both. However, not all mutations necessarily result in cancer. Current cancer treatments are known to be detrimental to the overall health of the patient. Knowledge of the genes responsible for the initiation and progression of cancer in patients can help determine the combination of drugs and therapy most suitable for a patient's recovery. The tool, described in a peer-reviewed journal Frontier in Genetics, is based on a machine learning model that classifies genes as tumor suppressor genes, oncogenes, or neutral genes. 

According to the researchers of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras, an Artificial Intelligence-based tool that can predict cancer-causing genes in an individual has been developed, paving the way for devising personalized cancer treatment strategies. According to researchers of IIT, Madras, it would be a great tool to diagnose severe life-threatening diseases cancerin coming days. 

The tool named 'PIVOT' is designed to predict cancer-causing genes based on a model that utilizes information on mutations, expression of genes, and copy number variation in genes and perturbations in the biological network due to an altered gene expression. The tool, described in a peer-reviewed journal Frontier in Genetics, is based on a machine learning model that classifies genes as tumor suppressor genes, oncogenes, or neutral genes. 

Cancer, being a complex disease, cannot be dealt with in a one-treatment-fits-all fashion. As cancer treatment increasingly shifts towards personalized medicine, such models that build toward pinpointing differences between patients can be very useful," said a Doctor, Core Member, RBCDSAI, IIT Madras, in his statement. 

The new tool was able to successfully predict both the existing oncogenes and tumor-suppressor genes like TP53, and PIK3CA, among others, and new cancer-related genes such as PRKCA, SOX9, and PSMD4. The researchers built AI prediction models for three different types of cancer including breast invasive carcinoma, colon adenocarcinoma, and lung adenocarcinoma." The research area of precision medicine is still at a nascent stage.

PIVOT helps push these boundaries and presents prospects for experimental research based on the genes identified," informed by a Research Scholar, IIT Madras. The team is planning to extend PIVOT further to many more cancer types. The team is also working on a list of personalized cancer-causing genes that can help in identifying the suitable drug for patients based on their cancer profile.

How people of India in ancient times coped with the diseases?

In India, there were many systems followed in the name of folk or traditional medicines. These are mainly Ayurveda and Siddha. Ayurveda was followed all over India whereas Sidhha specifically was practiced in Tamil Nadu, the South part of great India. Ayurveda is believed to be related to Bhagwan Dhanvantari and Narayan Vishnu the God of Nourishment whereas the Siddha is come into existence through Bhagwan Shiva and then followed by Agastya and other 18 Sddhar. 

Both systems of medicines were in the fame due to their curing methods and uprooting the disease from the body of a patient. But, at those times the Tibetian and Unani medicines were also being practiced in some localized areas in India but the Tibetian medicines got famed in China and Unani medicine in the Greek. The main systems are the Ayurveda and Siddha practiced in India in ancient times. 

Those time might civilization was in the mode of establishment and at the time majority of the population was residing in the jungle. but some of the people come into the community and resided together as villagers and in such a way infectious diseases such as influenza, measles, polio, tuberculosis, dysentery, malaria, typhoid, and leprosy were very common finally the “big two” infectious diseases epidemics namely smallpox and plague; decimated the ancient world. The communicable disease was being treated by separating the patient from the community and providing treatment by maintaining a particular distance in order to avoid spreading. 

The jwara (fever) was being treated by using many types of plant fresh roots and barks, body pain and impotency were treated with ashwagandha roots, and high blood pressure by the powder of sarpagandha. Root bark and stem bark of many plants were taken in utility for treating many types of life-threatening diseases. The lepa prepared by leaves, fruit rind, bark, etc, were taken to heal wounds. 

The doctors were famous in the name of Vaidyas and Siddhar for the system of Ayurveda and Siddha respectively. They were being trained by Rishi and Munis in their Gurukulam and totally sacrificing their lives for the welfare of humankind. 

Vaidya Sushain was the best example in the war between Shri Rama and Ravna when in the war Shri Laxmana was being saved by the Sanjeevani brought y Lord Hanuman Ji with the consultancy of vaidya Sushain.

 

Standard sleep hours of an adult for a healthy brain - New study...

Everyone is now running a competitive robotic life due to their lifestyle and a regular schedule from the day starting. The shift working many multinational companies is also playing important role in disturbing routine activities. 

In the ancient period, it was said as a proverb that “Boycott Nature means the reduction of the life.”  It is very true and we can’t ignore this. Due to activities using digital gadgets including mobile, computers, and other digital media, sound sleep has left away the majority of the people of the world, especially in developing countries. 

[Importance of sound sleep]

A new study has just revealed the standard sleep duration for a healthy brain. As we know that sleep is very important for our health. A new study result has been published in the journal Nature Aging just revealed standard sleep time to have probably the healthiest brain. 

To determine the sleep time necessary for a healthy brain, Christelle Langley, from the Department of Psychiatry at Cambridge University (United Kingdom) and researchers from Fudan University (China) came to analyze data from the UK Biobank of approx. Five lakhs people aged 38-73. The latter had been questioned about their sleep habits, mental health, and well-being. On top of that, about 40,000 people provided brain imaging data and genetic data. 

The results thus show that after the age of 40, the optimal duration of sleep is 7 hours is highly recommended. We also learn that shorter sleep time was directly associated with impaired cognitive performance, such as information processing speed, memory, problem-solving ability, and visual attention.  Of course, this optimal period of 7 hours of sleep implies sleeping in good conditions. Episodes of awakening during the night can for example impact the optimal efficiency of the brain. 

The researchers further add that the results show the importance of having a regular sleep pattern. The researchers then conclude: “7 hours of sleep per night is the optimal amount to maintain good cognitive performance. Finding ways to improve sleep in the elderly could therefore be crucial in helping them maintain good mental health and avoid cognitive decline, especially for patients with psychiatric disorders and dementias.” According to them, the association between insufficient sleep and cognitive decline is caused by the disturbance of deep sleep.

Stay healthy, stay safe...

Fourth wave of Corona and 5 strange symptoms, need to manage health carefully..

Coronavirus is changing rapidly. Its cases have started increasing. It is believed that the fourth wave has knocked. Along with this, some new symptoms have also emerged. 

Corona cases have once again registered a spurt in the country. according to a report in the last 24 hours, more than eighteen thousand new cases of corona have been reported. Corona cases are increasing rapidly in many states including Maharashtra, Delhi, Karnataka, etc. Not only this, but the new variant of Corona is also scaring people. 

The World Health Organization has reported that the new variant of Corona is BA.2.75. Some new symptoms of corona have also come to the fore. Which is very important to know for alertness. Now, the symptoms of corona are no longer just fever and cough. It is now targeting every part of the body. 

Five new symptoms have come to the fore. Let us know about those systems - 

1. Pinkness in the eyes: Pink eye or conjunctivitis has been seen as the new symptom of the corona. The eyes of corona patients are turning pink. Not only this, but he is also complaining of trouble due to light, pain in his eyes, and watery eyes. Researchers are getting to see such cases in different places.

2. Irregular heartbeat - The heartbeat of corona patients is getting irregular. Even among the patients who are recovering from corona, this problem related to the heart continues. This condition is being created due to a lack of oxygen and swelling of the heart. If this disease persists for a long time, then definitely contact the doctor.

3. COVID toes: One symptom of the corona is also related to the feet. Swelling and discoloration or roughness are seen in the toe and fingers. It is also visible in the hands, wrists, and ankles. It is called Covid Toes. This can trouble you for a long time even after the corona is cured.

4. Skin rash: Red rashes are also happening on the skin due to corona. In Kovid patients, these symptoms are visible even after recovery. It is necessary to treat it at the right time, otherwise, it can infect different parts of the body as well.

5. Chest Pain: Complaints of chest pain are being seen in corona patients. Not only this,  pain can persist even after recovering from the corona. It has also come to the fore that complaints of chest pain are starting even after recovering from the corona. If you are having any kind of chest problem, then contact the doctor immediately. 

To prevent the spread of COVID-19; Please-  

1. Maintain a safe distance from others (at least 1 meter), even if they don’t appear to be sick. 

2. Wear a mask in public, especially indoors or when physical distancing is not possible. 

3. Choose open, well-ventilated spaces over closed ones. Open a window if indoors. Clean your hands often. 

4. Use soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand rub. Get vaccinated when it’s your turn. 

5. Follow local guidance about vaccination. 

6. Cover your nose and mouth with your bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze. 

7. Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention. Call in advance so your healthcare provider can direct you to the right health facility. 

The aforesaid precautions protect you and prevent the spread of viruses and other infections.

Stay healthy, stay safe...

 

Best 7 Tips to Avoid Childhood Obesity

Children and adolescents are very much affected by the important medical disease known as childhood obesity. It is especially concerning because childhood obesity often predisposes children to health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol once thought to be the domain of adults. Also, sadness and low self-esteem in children can result from obesity. Improving your family’s eating and exercise habits is one of the best ways to combat childhood obesity. Obesity in children is treatable and preventable, helping to safeguard your child’s current and future health.

[An Obese Child]

Obesity is frequently associated with a number of chronic diseases. Another dangerous problem that requires rapid intervention is childhood obesity. In every nation of the world, childhood obesity is one of the most important global public health concerns of the 21st century, according to the WHO. Obesity among school-age children and adolescents has increased more than tenfold in just 40 years, from 11 million to 124 million. Childhood obesity can have a severe impact on a child’s physical, emotional, and social well-being if left unchecked. Though, there are many points to be adopted to avoid childhood obesity, however, here I would like to emphasize the following 7 tips that are practically working well. These are-  

1. Healthier eating habits- This is very important to monitor what type of diet, we are giving to our children? There is no place except own home to provide good and nutritional food to the children.   A child can have a very good day of dietary intake with careful planning. It includes a variety of whole-grain foods, vegetables, fruits, and dairy products in your child’s diet, along with low-fat or fat-free milk. They will receive most of the nutrients they need to build their bodies and minds from this.

2. Sleep well- It is very important to get proper sleep in childhood. Good and sound sleep in children more than 6-8 hours daily can help in the prevention of type 2 diabetes, obesity, accidents, poor mental health, and attention and behavior problems.  Did you know that teens ages 13-18 require 8-10 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night and teens ages 6-12 require 9-12 hours? Obesity is related to lack of sleep in part because it can cause us to eat more and do less physical activity. Make sure your kids are active during the day, keep screens out of their beds, and maintain a regular sleep routine even on the weekends to help them sleep better.

3. Consuming enough water- Water is vital for human health, as we all well know, and it is crucial to teach this to children as well. It is recommended to drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day. Give them a water bottle and explain that they should empty it completely four times (depending on the capacity of the water bottle) throughout the day to include this in their regular routine. This would help them establish a habit, but keep in mind that it may take some time and your child may not initially drink the entire bottle during the designated time. 

4. Never let children skip breakfast- This crucial meal jump-starts your metabolism, increases calorie expenditure, and prevents you from overeating later in the day. Notice what they are drinking as well. Most young people do not drink as much water as suggested. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, children ages 4 to 8 should have seven cups a day, while children ages 9 to 13 should have nine to 10 cups and teens should have 10 to 14 cups a day. Juices, sports drinks, and sodas are not healthy alternatives because they usually contain a lot of sugar. Instead, stick to drinking water or low-fat milk. 

5. Avoid distractions/entertainment during the meal- Children can now frequently eat while using a screen, for instance, watching TV, playing games on the computer, or using a mobile phone. It is a serious and harmful activity. The child is distracted by looking at a screen, which causes him to consume less or much more than he should. Enjoy the company of your family as you eat together without interruption. 

6. Reduce screen time- Not counting sleep, adults and children spend more than 7 hours a day sitting. Many of these sedentary hours are spent using a phone, tablet, or computer while sitting or lying down, watching TV, or playing video games (also known as screen time). Among health terms, excessive screen time is linked to poor sleep, weight gain, poor academic performance, and poor mental health in youth. Reducing screen time leaves more time for family activities. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends developing a family media plan, including tips such as avoiding technology use during meals, charging electronic devices out of bedrooms at night, turning off screens an hour before bedtime, and more.

7. Eliminate the temptations- Your child is more likely to eat junk food if you have it in the pantry. Children look up to their parents as role models for eating. So, set a good example for your kids by keeping high-calorie, sugar-laden, salty snacks out of the house. Remember that sugary drinks also include calories, so try to limit the amount of soda and juice you buy for your family.

Stay healthy, stay safe...