Health News Updates

A study led by Dr. Woong-Ki Kim at Tulane University reveals that an experimental cancer drug, BLZ945, significantly reduces Simian Immunodeficiency Virus in the brain. The research targeted specific immune cells and achieved up to 99% reduction in viral DNA without harming crucial brain cells or causing liver toxicity.

A study published in 'Frontiers in Cancer Control and Society' reveals that pesticides pose a cancer risk comparable to smoking, impacting non-Hodgkin lymphoma, leukaemia, and bladder cancer. It highlights the exposure of non-farmers in agricultural zones to multiple pesticides.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has released 32 new Standard Treatment Workflows (STWs) for various diseases. Developed with the National Health Authority and WHO India, these STWs span five specialties, enhancing the 125 previously released STWs to ensure uniform healthcare standards.

India's medical devices industry could grow five-fold to $50 billion by 2030 with proper regulation, said DCGI Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi. Speaking at a PHD Chamber conference, he emphasized quality monitoring and international acceptance as growth drivers. He highlighted the need to reverse the import-manufacture ratio and develop in-house reagents for diagnostic kits.

The latest State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) report by UN agencies reveals that about 733 million people faced hunger globally in 2023. The report predicts that by 2030, approximately 582 million will be chronically undernourished, highlighting a failure to meet SDG 2, Zero Hunger. Despite progress in specific areas, global hunger levels have plateaued for three years. Africa and Asia remain severely impacted while Latin America shows improvement.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in the Union Budget 2024, announced customs duty exemptions on three cancer drugs—Trastuzumab deruxtecan, Osimertinib, and Durvalumab—to ease financial burdens on patients. Additionally, she proposed exemptions for X-ray tubes and flat panel detectors to boost domestic manufacturing capacity.

A 14-year-old boy from Mallapuram, Kerala, succumbed to Nipah virus, confirmed by NIV Pune. The Union Health Ministry has advised active case searches and contact tracing. A multi-member team and monoclonal antibodies have been deployed for support.

Kerala Health Minister Veena George confirmed a 14-year-old boy in Malappuram is infected with the Nipah virus. The Pune National Institute of Virology verified the infection. Precautionary measures, including contact tracing and isolation, are underway. The minister highlighted Pandikkad as the epicentre and urged public caution.

In rural areas of Ganjam district, quacks are ruling the roost, putting the lives of innocent people at risk.

Union Minister Anupriya Patel highlighted the importance of adequately spaced pregnancies in boosting maternal and child health during a meeting with public health experts. She cited government initiatives like PMSMA, Anaemia Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, and family planning programs, noting their success in reducing maternal mortality. Additional Secretary Aradhana Patnaik emphasized achieving replacement-level TFR nationwide.

Low sodium levels, known as hyponatremia, pose significant health risks to older adults over 60. Experts highlight symptoms like headache, confusion, and fatigue. Major risk factors include kidney failure and certain medications. Awareness and prompt intervention are crucial for improving elderly well-being.

Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel announced six child deaths from suspected Chandipura virus infections, with 12 cases reported. Samples have been sent for verification to the National Institute of Virology. Most deaths occurred at Himatnagar civil hospital.

A University of Cambridge survey reveals that 70% of people in the UK are most concerned about late cancer diagnosis. The poll indicates that early detection and effective treatment are top priorities, with strong public support for AI-assisted medical processes.

Experts highlight the increased risk of foot ulcers among diabetics during monsoons due to high humidity. They emphasize the importance of specialized care, regular check-ups, proper footwear, and maintaining foot hygiene to prevent severe infections and amputations.

Smoking exacerbates health issues in diabetic individuals, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and complications. Dr V Mohan highlights that smoking raises insulin resistance, impairs blood circulation, and heightens fatal health outcomes.