Blood sugar management redefined? Understanding the utility of a ‘Smart’ Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)

Most of the time we rely on a fasting value or a few values taken over a period of days or weeks, along with an HbA1c (a three month average of our blood glucose) to decide the course of treatment. These do not factor in variations in our blood glucose within each day. Devices do that, says Dr Ambrish Mithal, Chairman of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Max glucose monitorMost methods measure the glucose level in the interstitial fluid (the fluid between our cells) rather than the blood (Source: Freepik)

The young woman sitting across the table was perplexed and angry. “Why is my diabetes uncontrolled doctor? My fasting sugar value is 110 mg/dl, and after breakfast it never exceeds 170 mg/dl. I take all my medicines regularly. Why is my HbA1c (three-month average) invariably around eight per cent? How do I reach my target of seven per cent?”

After some discussion I managed to convince her to attach a continuous glucose monitor to her body, so that we could unravel the mystery of her high HbA1c. We had the answer next week. The monitor readings showed that her sugar began to rise late in the evening and returned to normalcy only by early morning. The conventional method of testing fasting and post prandial blood sugar was missing several hours of high blood glucose. A modification of her evening snack and adjustment of medication ensured that we were able to rectify her problem soon.

Many years ago, the legendary Elliott Joslin said that the aim of treating diabetes is to keep the blood glucose as close to normal as possible. Our blood glucose level is a widely varying parameter. However, most of the time we rely on a fasting value or a few values taken over a period of days or weeks, along with an HbA1c (a three month average of our blood glucose) to decide the course of treatment. Such estimates are at best crude as they do not factor in variations in our blood glucose within each day. The common way of obtaining blood glucose values during the day is by finger-prick testing using glucose meters. While these devices have greatly enhanced our ability to monitor and manage diabetes, they involve finger pricks, which can be uncomfortable. There is also a limit to the number of times one can check. There have been numerous attempts, therefore, to develop technology that will be able to monitor glucose on a continuous basis. This approach has met with success in recent years, and continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGMs) are now widely used.

https://indianexpress.com/article/health-wellness/smart-continuous-glucose-monitor-cgm-manage-your-blood-sugar-better-8860394/

Liver Health: Yoga practices that aid liver detoxification

Detoxifying and stimulating the liver is essential for maintaining optimal digestion and overall health. Yoga offers a great way to achieve this through specific postures that massage this vital organ, bringing vitality and wellness to the entire system.

Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Yoga and Spiritual Leader, Founder, Akshar Yoga Institutions says, “The liver plays a crucial role in filtering wastes, toxins, and carcinogens from the body, making it a key component for a healthy and efficient human anatomy. By practicing the following five yoga poses regularly, you can support your liver's function and maintain a clean and healthy organ”.

Start by standing in Samasthithi with your feet together. Exhale and gently bend your upper body, dropping your head while keeping your shoulders and neck relaxed. Focus on moving your torso from the hip joints rather than the waist. Hold your big toes, inhale, and look up as you straighten your arms. Exhale and fold forward, aiming to keep your legs and knees straight. Beginners may need to bend their knees slightly, gradually working towards straightening them with practice. Repeat this asana regularly to experience its benefits.

Lie down on your back, bend your knees, and place your feet on the floor. Pull your feet towards your pelvis. Stretch your arms over the floor beside your body and grip your ankles with your palms. Slowly lift your pelvis and back off the floor, forming a gentle arch in your back as you try to touch your chest with your chin. Gaze towards the sky while maintaining the pose.

Lie down on your back and lift both your upper and lower body to balance on your sitting bones. Your toes should be aligned with your eyes, and your knees and back should remain straight. Keep your arms parallel to the ground and pointing forward. Tighten your abdominal muscles and straighten your back. Inhale and exhale normally as you hold the pose.

With your arms by your sides, maintain a straight posture. Put your pelvis over your heels by bending your knees. Make sure your feet stay level on the ground. You have two options for making a prayer: either lay your hands on the ground at your feet or unite them in front of your chest. Keep your spine straight throughout the stance.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/wellness/liver-health-yoga-practices-that-aid-liver-detoxification/photostory/102137186.cms?picid=102137257

Sex ratio at birth dips in 13 states and UTs

The Centre’s reply to a question in the Lok Sabha has pointed to a decline in the sex ratio at birth in 13 states and UTs across the country — including Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh — in the last three years. This is a telling commentary on the deeply ingrained mindset of a society that prefers the male child and considers girls as a burden best avoided. The dip also reflects gaping holes in the implementation of the government’s much-tom-tommed Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign, which PM Narendra Modi had launched in 2015 from Panipat in Haryana to help improve the country’s skewed sex ratio.

Though the campaign that involved an aggressive public awareness drive and a clampdown on sex determination centres had in the initial years showed encouragingly positive results as the gap between the genders at birth was seen to be steadily closing, the latest trend has undone the gains. The government scheme has suffered a setback also because the perpetrators of female foeticide have been a step ahead of the law enforcement system. Among other things, they have been using tiny ultrasound devices, which are difficult to detect, to determine the sex of the unborn child.

Rendering this unfortunate development worse is another horrific indicator of the continued preference for a boy — female infanticide. Cases from two states have hit national headlines in the past. A woman from Jind (Haryana) allegedly smothered her nine-month-old twin daughters to death with a pillow, while a man from Pune (Maharashtra) reportedly poisoned his twin baby girls and later killed their mother between December 2018 and February 2020. He and his parents have finally been booked for the heinous crimes, which were allegedly committed as his wife did not bear him a son. When will this shameful patriarchal attitude go?

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/editorials/no-country-for-girls-529237

Dip in numbers must trigger robust response

ONCE notorious for its skewed sex ratio and deep-seated cultural preference for the male child, Haryana has over the years managed a steady improvement in the sex ratio at birth (SRB). But as it has now slipped to a six-year low, triggering alarm bells, reports of misuse of technology for pre-natal sex determination warrant a statewide clampdown. The January-June SRB has come down to 906 female births per 1,000 males from 917 in December last year. Though officials claim a year-long appraisal is a more precise barometer, the 11-point half-yearly dip is a setback to the efforts for curbing female foeticide. It is imperative for the district officers to take proactive measures. A close scrutiny of the factors at work is required.

An inter-state racket busted in Rajasthan two years ago brought to the fore the use of a phone-sized ultrasound machine to conduct illegal sex-determination tests. The same modus operandi is suspected in Haryana. The authenticity of the results of the not-so-costly gadget may be debatable, but not of its wide use. Stringent punitive action for detecting the sex of a foetus and sex-selective abortion has been an effective strategy, but social change requires an attitudinal shift. That remains a challenge. The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao programme is engineered as a collective inter-departmental initiative. A robust response to the latest figures is the way forward.

A 2011 study by a British medical journal found that up to 1.2 crore female foetuses had been aborted in India in the previous three decades. In 2014, the United Nations said the dwindling number of Indian girls had reached ‘emergency proportions’. Tracking tests and pregnancies is vital, but so are campaigns to change the perceptions about girls. For Haryana, it’s time for a renewed pledge in the fight against female foeticide.

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/editorials/haryana-sex-ratio-528655

Scale up curative, preventive measures

India’S cancer burden is rising; the mortality rate for the dreaded disease is also going northwards. The Centre informed the Lok Sabha on Thursday that of the 14.61 lakh cases of cancer detected in 2022 — 35,000 more than in the previous year — 8.08 lakh patients died as compared to 7.89 lakh in 2021. This calls for better curative, palliative and preventive measures and strengthening of cancer care infrastructure.

Another cause for concern is that the mortality-to-incidence ratio for cancer in India is among the highest in the world. The finding of a 2022 FICCI-EY study is even more alarming: the actual incidence of cancer could be two to three times higher than the official figures. Stressing the need for more and better hospitals equipped with oncologists and state-of-the-art machinery, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya presented a worrisome prognosis in the Lok Sabha last December: cancer prevalence in the country is slated for an increase by 12.8 per cent.

At the heart of the problem is the lack of easy access to specialist hospitals for timely detection of the disease and affordable treatment. With a large proportion of the cancer victims unable to afford quality care, the government would do well to speed up work on the promised 19 state

cancer institutes and 20 tertiary care centres. The public healthcare system is overburdened, while treatment in private hospitals is extremely costly. In this scenario, it is equally crucial to focus on campaigns aimed at raising public awareness about cancer detection and prevention. The risk factors listed by experts include tobacco and alcohol consumption, obesity, malnutrition and a sedentary lifestyle. Processed and packaged food that contains preservatives is also being linked to cancer. Practising healthy habits is the key to keeping the disease at bay.

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/editorials/cancer-mortality-528365

Early food allergies linked to childhood asthma and reduced lung function: Study

Babies with food allergies are more likely to develop asthma and have reduced lung function later in childhood, according to a recent study.

According to a world-first study, having a food allergy as a baby is connected to asthma and impaired lung function later in childhood. The research, led by Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and published in the Lancet Child & Adolescent Health, found that early life food allergy was associated with an increased risk of both asthma and reduced lung growth at six years of age. Murdoch Children’s Associate Professor Rachel Peters said this was the first study to examine the relationship between challenge-confirmed food allergy in infancy and asthma and poorer lung health later in childhood.

Babies with a food allergy were almost four times more likely to develop asthma at six years of age, compared to children without a food allergy. 

The Melbourne research involved 5276 infants from the HealthNuts study, who underwent skin prick testing to common food allergens, including peanut and egg and oral food challenges to test for food allergy. At six years, children were followed up with further food allergy and lung function tests.

The study found by six years of age, 13.7 per cent reported a diagnosis of asthma. Babies with a food allergy were almost four times more likely to develop asthma at six years of age, compared to children without a food allergy. The impact was greatest in children whose food allergy persisted to age six as opposed to those who had outgrown their allergy. Children with a food allergy were also more likely to have reduced lung function.

Associate Professor Peters said food allergy in infancy, whether it resolved or not, was linked to poorer respiratory outcomes in children. “This association is concerning given reduced lung growth in childhood is associated with health problems in adulthood including respiratory and heart conditions,” she said. “Lung development is related to a child’s height and weight and children with a food allergy can be shorter and lighter compared to their peers without an allergy. This could explain the link between food allergy and lung function. There are also similar immune responses involved in the development of both food allergy and asthma."

“The growth of infants with food allergy should be monitored. We encourage children who are avoiding foods because of their allergy to be under the care of a dietician so that nutrition can be catered for to ensure healthy growth.” Food allergy affects 10 per cent of babies and 5 per cent of children and adolescents. Suba Slater’s, son Zane, 15, is allergic to eggs, sesame and peanuts and has asthma.

“As a newborn he developed eczema on his back and I thought because I was breastfeeding, there was something in my diet causing the rash,” she said. “We took him into hospital for tests, which confirmed the multiple food allergies.” Suba said she wasn’t well informed of the link between food allergy and asthma prior to Zane’s diagnosis. “We were very focused and vigilant around the food allergy aspect given our eldest child also has allergies,” she said.

Having this link shown through this research and making parents and medical professionals aware of it is extremely important. After we discovered Zane had food allergies we didn’t know to lookout for asthma and it wasn’t on our radar. “Looking back, he most likely had asthma long before we could hear that he was struggling with his breathing. If we had been aware of the association we would have sought medical help much sooner.”

Suba said Zane had participated in several food challenges at the Murdoch Children’s but his asthma had complicated his participation at times. “By taking part in the food challenges we have found out that Zane is now able to tolerate egg in baked goods and certain nuts much more and has learnt how to include these foods in his diet,” she said.

“But before he does a challenge he is required to take a spirometry test to make sure his lung function is at its best in case the allergenic food triggers his asthma. There are times where he has missed appointments because his lungs haven’t been strong enough.” Murdoch Children’s and University of Melbourne Professor Shyamali Dharmage said the findings would help clinicians tailor patient care and encourage greater vigilance around monitoring respiratory health.

Children with a food allergy should be managed by a clinical immunology or allergy specialist for ongoing management and education. Professor Dharmage said clinicians and parents should also be vigilant for asthma symptoms in children with food allergy because poorly controlled asthma was a risk factor for severe food-induced allergic reactions and anaphylaxis.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/early-food-allergies-linked-to-childhood-asthma-and-reduced-lung-function-study-101690350546631.html

Dos and don’ts for gastric problems in monsoon

Follow these foolproof tips during monsoon to prevent gastric problems and ensure good gut health during rainy days.

Monsoon doesn’t only lead to skin, eye or joint problems but even gastric issues hence, it is essential to take utmost care during the rainy season and keep gastric problems at bay. Health experts suggest some of the vital measures one can take to ensure good gut health during rainy days as seasonal changes take a toll on one’s gut health.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Meghraj Ingle, Director and Senior Consultant Gastroenterology at Global Hospitals in Parel Mumbai, shared, “A large number of people encounter gastric problems during the rainy season. The factors leading to gastric problems are higher humidity levels, contaminated water, and food, leading to a weak immune system. The humid weather in monsoon slows down one’s digestion and one can suffer from bloating, gastric, acidity, and indigestion. Many people have problems such as vomiting and abdominal pain because of eating roadside food. There are many who also suffer from food poisoning because of eating stale or spoiled food.”

He cautioned, “Eating raw and undercooked foods infected with bacteria like Salmonella and E.coli cause food poisoning. Using contaminated water invites diarrhoea, and other stomach infections. One should keep the digestive system healthy during monsoon by sticking to these vital tips. Moreover, gastroenteritis or stomach flu is also another problem that leads to the inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, stomach, and intestines. It is highly contagious and spreads when one comes in contact with people who are infected or via contaminated food or water. The symptoms of it are watery diarrhoea and vomiting, abdominal cramp, pain, fever, nausea and a headache.”

He recommended to follow these foolproof tips during monsoon to prevent gastric problems -

• Opt for probiotics: They are good for the gut. Eat yogurt, buttermilk. Take the help of an expert if required.

• Drink enough water: To aid digestion and eliminate toxins from the body. It is advised to drink at least 101-2 glasses of water per day. Remember not to over hydrate the body as it can also be problematic.

• Do not eat raw vegetables: It is a good idea to opt for steamed or boiled veggies. Raw veggies may contain bacteria and viruses which can make one prone to stomach infections by disrupting gut health.

• Exclude RAW seafood from the diet: Since the water is contaminated during monsoons, eating RAW seafood like sushi, sashimi will lead to diarrhoea. Not only this, one should also limit the intake of junk, processed and canned food.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/dos-and-don-ts-for-gastric-problems-in-monsoon-101690429685158.html

Male fertility tips: 5 assisted reproductive techniques that can help men battling Infertility

Here is an overview of 5 different assisted reproductive technologies (ART) that can assist in addressing male infertility concerns.

In vitro fertilization or IVF has revolutionised the field of reproductive medicine and has helped millions of people worldwide to achieve their dream of parenthood and it is the need of the hour to promote public understanding and education about infertility, the available treatment options and also the emotional and physical impact it has on individuals and families. Few know that there are different assisted reproductive technologies (ART) that are available to men who are experiencing infertility.

Male fertility tips: 5 assisted reproductive techniques that can help men battling infertility.

In an interview with HT lifestyle, Dr Sneha Sathe, Fertility Consultant at Nova IVF Fertility in Chembur, gave an overview of the various methods and techniques that can assist in addressing male infertility concerns -

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): This procedure involves placing the husbands washed semen sample (semen sample processed in the laboratory) into the woman's uterus at the time when she is most fertile, thereby increasing the chances of fertilization. In cases where the husband's semen report shows mild to moderate abnormalities or when there are sexual issues such as erectile dysfunction or anejaculation, IUI is considered an appropriate choice. Alternatively, if the husband has a zero sperm count, IUI using donor sperm can be a viable option.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): IVF, a commonly employed assisted reproductive technology (ART), involves the retrieval of eggs from the woman's ovaries and their fertilization with sperm within a laboratory setting. The resulting embryos are subsequently transferred back into the woman's uterus. ICSI is often used in conjunction with IVF. It involves injecting a single sperm directly into a mature egg to facilitate fertilization. ICSI proves particularly advantageous in instances of severe male factor infertility, characterised by significantly impaired sperm count, motility, or morphology.

Percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration (PESA) and Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE): These procedures involve retrieving sperm directly from the epididymis or testes in men with azoospermia. Depending on the cause of azoospermia, it is possible for some men to be able to have their biological child. Surgical sperm retrieval and ICSI are often needed to achieve pregnancy in these cases.

Sperm and Embryo Cryopreservation: Sperm and embryos can be frozen and stored for future use. This practice proves particularly beneficial for men who may undergo treatments that could potentially impact their fertility (like Cancer treatment), as well as for couples who wish to preserve their fertility for later purposes.

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT): PGT involves screening embryos for genetic abnormalities before transferring them to the uterus. This technique can help identify healthy embryos and reduce the risk of passing on certain genetic conditions.

Dr Sneha Sathe advised, “When determining the most appropriate fertility treatment option for men, it is important to also consider additional factors such as the age of the wife, duration of infertility and the presence or absence of other factors contributing to infertility. Your fertility specialist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation that takes into account these factors, as they play a crucial role in devising a personalised treatment plan. Tailoring treatment plans specifically for the couple, enhances the likelihood of achieving successful results.”

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/male-fertility-tips-5-assisted-reproductive-techniques-that-can-help-men-battling-infertility-101690423879895.html

Semaglutide, lifestyle changes, and no invasive surgery: What AHA’s new heart health guidelines mean

Dr Nishith Chandra, Principal Director, Interventional Cardiology, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, Delhi, decodes the latest American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines, which have been updated after a decade. These make strength training mandatory, advocate diabetes medications like Semaglutide and Mounjaro for protecting the heart and recommend using beta blockers for shorter periods. And most importantly, they discourage the overuse of the heart stress test

The guideline is also endorsed by the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions 

“Earlier, the moment I told my patient they had blocked arteries, they would panic. But the messaging from the latest and updated guidelines from the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology on chronic coronary disease (CCD) is clear — Heart disease is treatable and doesn’t always mean invasive surgery. With good medication and a guideline-directed medical therapy, a diagnosis doesn’t mean morbidity. Besides, equal weightage to lifestyle management and preventing triggers can take care of CCD in patients. The thrust on preventive cardiac health has been the key shift in the guidelines,” says Dr Nishith Chandra, Principal Director, Interventional Cardiology, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, Delhi. Apart from improving lifestyle markers, the AHA guidelines, which have been updated after a decade, make strength training mandatory, advocate diabetes medications like Semaglutide and Mounjaro for protecting the heart and recommend using beta blockers for shorter periods. And most importantly, they discourage the overuse of the heart stress test.

Chronic coronary disease (CCD) is an umbrella term used to describe a variety of long-term vascular and heart conditions in which there is inadequate blood flow to or from the heart as arteries become narrowed by a buildup of fatty material within their walls. It applies to people with chronic, heart-related chest pain; people who have had a heart attack, coronary stent or bypass surgery; and people who have evidence of reduced blood flow to the heart based on diagnostic testing. “Since India has a huge burden of cardiac health issues, this emphasis on modifiable factors and recalibrating treatment parameters mean they can live long,” says Dr Chandra.

https://indianexpress.com/article/health-wellness/aha-revises-heart-health-guidelines-semaglutide-lifestyle-8857855/

5 common causes of fatty liver, according to the doctors

Fatty liver, medically known as hepatic steatosis, is a prevalent and concerning condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of fat within liver cells. This condition has become increasingly common in recent years and poses significant health risks. Understanding the common causes of fatty liver is essential for prevention and proper management.

Dr. D Rahul, Consultant, Medical Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist and Therapeutic Endoscopist, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad says, “Obesity is a major contributing factor to the development of fatty liver. When an individual is overweight or obese, their body's fat stores increase, and excess fat can also accumulate in the liver. This excessive fat deposition in the liver can lead to a condition called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The prevalence of obesity in modern society has made NAFLD one of the most common liver disorders worldwide.”

The Western diet, characterized by a high intake of unhealthy fats, added sugars, and processed foods, plays a significant role in the rising incidence of fatty liver. Consuming excessive calories and lacking essential nutrients can overload the liver's ability to metabolize fats efficiently, resulting in the storage of fat within liver cells.

“Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body's cells become less responsive to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. It is often associated with obesity and can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance and diabetes can contribute to fatty liver as insulin plays a crucial role in fat metabolism, and impaired insulin function can lead to fat accumulation in the liver,” says Dr. Rahul.

Alcohol abuse is a well-established cause of fatty liver. Excessive alcohol intake can lead to alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD), which is characterized by fat accumulation in the liver cells. Even moderate alcohol consumption can be detrimental to the liver and contribute to fatty liver in susceptible individuals.

According to Dr. Rahul, “Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that includes obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, and abnormal lipid profiles. People with metabolic syndrome are at an elevated risk of developing fatty liver due to the combined effects of these metabolic abnormalities on liver function.”

“Other contributing factors to fatty liver include rapid weight loss, certain medications, viral hepatitis, and genetic predisposition. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), may also increase the risk of fatty liver.

“Early detection and appropriate management are essential to prevent disease progression and potential liver-related complications. Lifestyle modifications, including adopting a balanced and healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, are key components of fatty liver prevention and management. For individuals at risk or those already diagnosed with fatty liver, seeking medical advice from healthcare professionals is crucial for tailored interventions and regular monitoring of liver health,” advises Dr. Rahul.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/5-common-causes-of-fatty-liver-according-to-the-doctors/photostory/102105580.cms?picid=102105619

WHO releases new guidelines on sexually transmitted infections: Key points

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has shared new guidelines on sexually transmitted infections (STIs) at the STI & HIV 2023 World Congress in Chicago. The UN health agency calls for better access to treating and diagnosis of STIs. The event will take place till July 27.

The WHO's guidelines come at a point where every day more than a million such cases are reported. The WHO says monitoring STIs in many countries, especially the low and middle income countries are blocked by limited access to diagnosis. This is further made difficult by the nature of the STIs; most of the STIs are asymptomatic by nature. Of the tota population who are affected by the STIs, more than 500 million people 15–49 years are estimated to have a genital infection with herpes simplex virus (HSV or herpes).

Point of care tests are the medical tests where healthcare can be provided to near or closer to the patients. It is also known as bed side testing. Common point of care tests are blood glucose monitoring and home pregnancy tests. WHO aims to include such testing for diagnosing syphilis (treponema pallidum), Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Trichomonas vaginalis. "Point-of-care tests can lower health-care costs, reduce waiting times, speed up initiation of and increase the accuracy of treatment, and improve patient follow-up," the WHO says.

As per the data available on the website of the WHO, 8 pathogens-- syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, hepatitis B, herpes simplex virus (HSV), HIV and human papillomavirus (HPV)-- account for maximum number of STI cases while more than 30 bacteria are known to cause these infections actively.

While some STIs are treatable, some can have potentially fatal consequences. Herpes, gonorrhoea and syphilis increase the risk of HIV; STIs in mothers can lead to stillbirth, premature births, congenital defects and neonatal conjuctivitis; HPV can lead to cervical, oral cancer; gonorrhoea and chlamydia lead to pelvic disease and infertility in women.

5 infections you can pick up from your own toilet seat; be careful!

Toilet seats are haven for germs. The common germs found on toilet seats are bacteria, influenza, streptococcus, E.coli, hepatitis, staphylococcus, salmonella, shigella and norovirus. As per several health reports, each square inch of a toilet seat carries more than 50 bacteria. Read this article to find out the common infection you can get from a toilet seat and why you should be more careful while cleaning your own toilet.

One of the most places from which people get UTI is a toilet seat. Unclean toilet seat makes it extremely easy for the germs to get into your body. In UTI, the germs infect the bladder, urethra and sometimes even the kidneys.

This is an infection where there is excessive bacterial growth in the vagina. This imbalances vaginal health and is characterised by off white discharge which has a foul smell. Due to bacterial infection, there is excessive vaginal itching and irritation and this is accompanied by a burning feeling.

This is a medical emergency condition in which the prostate of men swells due to inflammation which is caused by bacterial infection. This infection is characterised by pain in the genitals, groin region and is accompanied with flue like symptoms.

There is a major risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection from an unclean toilet seat. This does not apply to public restrooms only, personal toilets which are not clean can cause STDs though the chances of transmission are very rare. STDs spread through skin to skin contact mostly.

An overgrowth of yeast in the vagina, mostly Candida albicans, can cause candidiasis in women. You are at a greater risk of this infection if you are using unclean toilet. Avoid wiping from back to front as the rectal area has more yeast and wiping this way can spread the pathogens.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/5-infections-you-can-pick-up-from-your-own-toilet-seat-be-careful/photostory/102107750.cms?picid=102107823

Omega-3 fatty acids help in maintaining lung health: Study

In the future, this could translate into individualized dietary recommendations for people at high risk for chronic lung disease

Omega-3 fatty acids, abundant in fish and fish oil supplements, are promising for maintaining lung health, according to new research from a sizable, thorough study in healthy individuals funded by the National Institutes of Health.

The study highlights the importance of consuming omega-3 fatty acids, especially in light of the fact that many Americans do not consume enough of them, and provides the most compelling evidence of this connection to date.

“We know a lot about the role of diet in cancer and cardiovascular diseases, but the role of diet in chronic lung disease is somewhat understudied,” said corresponding author Patricia A. Cassano, PhD, director of the Division of Nutritional Sciences at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. “This study adds to growing evidence that omega-3 fatty acids, which are part of a healthy diet, may also be important for lung health.”

Whether nutritional therapies could aid in the fight against lung illness has recently gained more attention. Because of their well-documented anti-inflammatory effects, omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to promising results in earlier studies. However, until recently, there haven't been any reliable investigations of this link. To learn more, researchers developed a two-part study investigating the link between omega-3 fatty acid levels in the blood and lung function over time. In the first part, the researchers conducted a longitudinal, observational study involving 15,063 Americans from the NHLBI Pooled Cohorts Study, a large collection of NIH-funded studies that helps researchers to study determinants of personalized risk for chronic lung disease.

The participants studied were generally healthy when the study began, and the majority had no evidence of chronic lung disease. They comprised a racially diverse group of adults, with an average age of 56 years, and 55 per cent were female. The researchers followed participants for an average of seven years and up to 20 years. The longitudinal study showed that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in a person’s blood were associated with a reduced rate of lung function decline. The researchers observed the strongest associations for docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid that is found at high levels in fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and sardines. DHA is also available as a dietary supplement. In the second part, the researchers analysed genetic data from a large study of European patients (over 500,000 participants) from the UK Biobank. They studied certain genetic markers in the blood as an indirect measure, or proxy, for dietary omega-3 fatty acid levels to see how they correlated with lung health. The results showed that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids “including DHA” were associated with better lung function. One caveat of the current study is that it only included healthy adults. As part of this ongoing project, researchers are collaborating with the COPDGene study to examine blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids in relation to the rate of decline in lung function among people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD “including heavy smokers” to determine if the same beneficial associations are found.

“We’re starting to turn a corner in nutritional research and really moving toward precision nutrition for treating lung diseases,” said study first author Bonnie K. Patchen, PhD, a nutritionist and member of Cassanos research team at Cornell.

In the future, this could translate into individualized dietary recommendations for people at high risk for chronic lung disease. For now, the researchers point out that the US Department of Agriculture Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that people eat at least two servings of fish per week, which most Americans fall far short. In addition to fish and fish oil, other sources of omega-3 fatty acids include nuts and seeds, plant oils, and fortified foods.”This large population-based study suggests that nutrients with anti-inflammatory properties may help to maintain lung health,” said James P Kiley, PhD, director of the NHLBI’s Division of Lung Diseases. More research is needed since these findings raise interesting questions for future prospective studies about the link between omega-3 fatty acids and lung function.

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/health/omega-3-fatty-acids-help-in-maintaining-lung-health-study-528311

Increasing omega-3 intake may help protect your hearing: Study

The study explores how blood levels of omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid are inversely related to hearing problems.

A new population-based cross-sectional study found that blood levels of the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) were inversely connected to hearing problems. Higher DHA levels in middle-aged and older persons were 8-20% less likely to report age-related hearing impairments than lower DHA levels.

“Higher DHA levels have previously been found to be associated with a lower risk of heart disease, cognitive impairment, and death. Our study extends these findings to suggest a role for DHA in maintaining auditory function and helping reduce the risk of age-related hearing loss,” said Michael I. McBurney, PhD, a senior scientist with the Fatty Acid Research Institute and an adjunct professor in the Department of Human Health & Nutritional Sciences at the University of Guelph and the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University.

McBurney, a Fellow of the American Society for Nutrition and the Canadian Nutrition Society, will present the findings at NUTRITION 2023, the flagship annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition held July 22–25 in Boston.

Using data from the UK Biobank, the researchers analyzed self-reported hearing status and blood DHA levels of over 100,000 people 40-69 years of age in the United Kingdom. After accounting for potential confounding variables, the results showed that people in the highest quintile (one-fifth of participants) of blood DHA levels were 16% less likely to answer yes to the question ‘do you have difficulty hearing’ compared with those in the lowest quintile of DHA levels. Similarly, those in the highest quintile for DHA levels were 11% less likely to answer yes to the question ‘do you have difficulty following conversations when there is background noise’ compared with people in the lowest quintile for DHA levels.

While the results show a significant association between DHA levels and hearing, McBurney cautioned that a cross-sectional population study does not provide enough evidence to definitively conclude that DHA maintains auditory function or that inadequate DHA levels contribute to hearing loss. However, the findings add to a mounting body of evidence of the importance of omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA in particular, to maintain health and help protect against aging-related declines in a variety of body functions.

Omega-3s may help to protect the health of cells in the inner ear or mitigate inflammatory responses to loud noises, chemicals, or infections. Previous studies conducted in older adults and in animals have similarly suggested that higher omega-3 levels are inversely related to and may protect against age-related hearing loss.

Our bodies have a limited ability to produce DHA, so the amount of DHA found in our blood and tissues largely depends on our omega-3 intake. DHA levels can be increased by regularly consuming seafood or by taking dietary supplements.

“There is strong evidence that higher blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial,” said McBurney. “Fatty fish and omega-3 supplements are both good dietary sources. If choosing to use a dietary supplement, compare products by reading the Supplement Facts panel for eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) DHA content.”

It is estimated that around 20% of people—over 1.5 billion people worldwide—live with hearing loss, and this number is expected to rise as the population ages in the coming decades. Hearing loss can range from mild to profound; it affects communication and social interactions, educational and job opportunities, and many other aspects of daily life.

Environmental factors as well as genetic proclivities and medicines contribute to hearing loss. Proven ways to reduce the risk of hearing loss include protecting the ears from loud noises by using protective equipment and getting appropriate medical care for infections.

This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/increasing-omega-3-intake-may-help-protect-your-hearing-study-101690259713097.html

Welcome development: On the ICMR and Controlled Human Infection Studies

Robust institutional mechanisms must be in place for human challenge studies

With the Bioethics Unit of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) placing a consensus policy statement on Controlled Human Infection Studies (CHIS) for comments, India has taken the first step in clearing the deck for such studies to be undertaken here. CHIS, also called human challenge studies, where healthy volunteers are intentionally exposed to a disease-causing microbe in a highly controlled and monitored environment, has been carried out for hundreds of years, an example being the yellow fever study in the early 1900s to establish that mosquitoes transmit the virus. Typically, a less virulent strain of the microbe is used to study less deadly diseases that have proven drugs for treatment. They are more often undertaken on a small number of volunteers to understand the various facets of infection and disease, and, occasionally, to accelerate the development process of a medical intervention. When used as part of vaccine development, these studies are initiated only when safety and immune responses of the candidate vaccines are known through early phases of clinical testing. Importantly, human challenge studies are not done as an alternative to phase-3 efficacy trials, but to help select the best candidate for testing in a conventional phase-3 clinical trial. Phase-3 clinical trials that follow human challenge studies often require fewer volunteers, speeding up the development process. In the last 50 years, CHIS studies have been carried out with thousands to accelerate vaccine development against typhoid and cholera. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Imperial College London used 36 volunteers to study facets of the SARS-CoV-2 infection. In 2020, the World Health Organization approved using CHIS for accelerating COVID-19 vaccine development.

There are several ethical challenges with human challenge studies, which require well-trained and robust systems in place. While collaborations with institutions and scientists well versed in conducting such studies are a must, navigating the ethical minefield is a challenge. Several clinical trials, including those by or involving the ICMR, have been mired in ethical violations, such as the Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine trial in Andhra Pradesh, in 2010. The ethical challenges while conducting CHIS are of a higher magnitude, the scope for misuse vast, and the repercussions severe. There is potential for exploitation, given the monetary dimension involving volunteers. If it becomes a reality, India should use CHIS only to study diseases with safe and effective treatment. Using CHIS to study novel microbes/disease with limited medical intervention should wait till Indian scientists gain expertise, and robust institutional structures and mechanisms are in place.

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/welcome-development-the-hindu-editorial-on-the-icmr-and-controlled-human-infection-studies/article67119963.ece

World IVF Day: Debunking common misconceptions about in-vitro fertilisation

Senior embryologist Dr Gurpreet Kaur Nagi says IVF or in-vitro fertilisation is “a medical procedure which involves collection of eggs from a woman's ovaries" which are to be "fertilised with sperm in a laboratory dish. This creates embryos that are then carefully placed back into the woman's womb to grow into a baby."

World IVF Day is observed every year on July 25 to commemorate the birth of the first test tube baby – Louise Brown – who was born on this day in 1978 through the in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) technique. This day celebrates the hope and joy that IVF has brought to millions of couples facing infertility challenges globally.

Also known as World Embryologist Day, it serves as a reminder of the groundbreaking advancements in fertility treatments – giving hope to those longing for parenthood. It raises awareness about infertility issues, encourages open conversations and reduces the stigma around seeking fertility assistance.

Before IVF, many couples struggled with infertility and had limited options to have children. In 1978, Robert Edwards and Patrick Steptoe achieved a milestone by successfully helping a woman give birth to the world’s first test tube baby. Till date, IVF remains one of the most effective and widely used assisted reproductive technologies.

Talking about the technique, Dr Gurpreet Kaur Nagi, senior embryologist at Baby Joy IVF, Delhi, said, “IVF or in-vitro fertilisation is a medical procedure which involves collection of eggs from a woman’s ovaries to be fertilised with sperm in a laboratory dish. This creates embryos that are then carefully placed back into the woman’s womb to grow into a baby.”

Dr Nagi added that it helps couples with blocked fallopian tubes, low sperm count and other fertility issues. “The process involves hormone medications to stimulate egg production, and the embryos are closely monitored for quality before being transferred.”

However, she noted that it is essential to understand emotional and physical aspects before considering IVF as an option. Consulting a fertility specialist can provide valuable guidance throughout the journey.

Despite the growing popularity of the technique, there is a lot of confusing information to sift through when considering IVF. Numerous misconceptions have arisen – suggesting that it leads to severe health problems and has a harmful impact on the body. Hence, it is imperative

to dispel these myths surrounding this assisted reproductive technology. So, we turned to Dr Nagi to bust some myths around IVF.

Consulting a fertility specialist can provide valuable guidance throughout the journey. (Source: Freepik)

Myth: IVF is only for female infertility

Fact: IVF can be used for both male and female infertility. It is true that IVF is often associated with female infertility, but it is also used when male factors affect fertility, such as low sperm count or motility. In some cases, both partners may have fertility challenges and IVF can be a viable option to achieve pregnancy.

Myth: IVF should only be done after trying naturally for many years or after other treatments of infertility have failed

Fact: While many couples do try natural conception and other fertility treatments before considering IVF, there is no specific timeline for when to begin IVF. It is essential to consult a fertility specialist early on, especially if there are known fertility issues or if the couple is older. IVF can be a suitable option at various stages of the infertility journey.

Myth: IVF is risky and unsafe

Fact: IVF is a well-established and safe medical procedure. Like any medical treatment, it may carry some risks, but serious complications are rare. Fertility specialists work diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of their patients throughout the IVF process.

Myth: IVF is painful

Fact: IVF is generally not a painful procedure. While some women may experience mild discomfort during the egg retrieval process, it is usually done under sedation or anaesthesia. The subsequent embryo transfer is a relatively painless procedure similar to a pap smear. Most women tolerate IVF well without significant pain.

Myth: IVF is a long treatment

Fact: While IVF involves several steps, including fertility medications, egg retrieval, fertilisation and embryo transfer, the overall process is not excessively long. It typically takes a few weeks and some clinics offer a “fast-track” approach for selected patients– shortening the timeline.

Myth: Complete rest is required after IVF

Fact: While some rest and reduced physical activity is advised for a short period after embryo transfer, complete bed rest is not necessary. Light activities and maintaining a normal routine are generally encouraged to reduce stress. However, each person’s situation may be different, and it is essential to follow the specific guidelines given by the fertility specialist.

Dr Nagi concluded that IVF is suitable for various individuals and couples facing specific challenges in conceiving a baby naturally, including couples with infertility, women with tubal damage or blockage, age-related infertility or unexplained infertility.

“Ultimately, IVF provides hope and an opportunity for parenthood to those struggling with fertility challenges – making it a widely used and successful assisted reproductive technology,” she said.

https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/world-ivf-day-debunking-common-misconceptions-about-in-vitro-fertilisation-8855416/

Gene therapy eyedrops restored a boy’s sight

Gene therapy eyedrops restored a boy’s sight; similar treatments could help millions

Treatment, called Vyjuvek, uses an inactivated herpes simplex virus to deliver working copies of that gene; the eyedrops use the same liquid as the skin version, just without the added gel

Dr Alfonso Sabater pulled up two photos of Antonio Vento Carvajal’s eyes. 

One showed cloudy scars covering both eyeballs. The other, taken after months of gene therapy given through eyedrops, revealed no scarring on either eye. Antonio, who’s been legally blind for much of his 14 years, can see again. 

The teen was born with dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, a rare genetic condition that causes blisters all over his body and in his eyes. 

But his skin improved when he joined a clinical trial to test the world’s first topical gene therapy. That gave Sabater an idea: What if it could be adapted for Antonio’s eyes? This insight not only helped Antonio, it also opened the door to similar therapies that could potentially treat millions of people with other eye diseases, including common ones. 

Antonio’s mom, Yunielkys “Yuni” Carvajal, teared up thinking about what Sabater did for her son.

 “He’s been there through everything,” she said in Spanish during a visit to the University of Miami Health System’s Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. “He’s not only a good doctor but such a good human being and provided us with hope. He never gave up.” The family came to the US from Cuba in 2012 on a special visa allowing Antonio to get treatment for his condition, which affects around 3,000 people worldwide. He had surgeries to remove scar tissue from his eyes, but it grew back. Antonio’s vision kept getting worse, eventually deteriorating so much that he didn’t feel safe walking around. 

Sabater had no answers then, and tried to reassure the boy: “I’ll find a solution. I just need some time. I’m working on it.”

“’Yeah, I know you’re going to do it,’” Sabater recalled Antonio saying. “That gave me the energy to continue.” At one point, Carvajal told Sabater about the experimental gene therapy gel for Antonio’s skin lesions. He contacted drugmaker Krystal Biotech to see if it could be reformulated for the boy’s eyes. 

Suma Krishnan, co-founder and president of research and development for the Pittsburgh-based company, said the idea made sense and “it didn’t hurt to try it.” 

Antonio’s condition is caused by mutations in a gene that helps produce a protein called collagen 7, which holds together both skin and corneas. The treatment, called Vyjuvek, uses an inactivated herpes simplex virus to deliver working copies of that gene. The eyedrops use the same liquid as the skin version, just without the added gel. 

After two years, which included testing the drug in mice, the team got “compassionate use” approval from the US Food and Drug Administration and permission from university and hospital review boards. Last August, Antonio had surgery on his right eye, after which Sabater started treating him with the eyedrops. 

Krishnan said they were cautious, frequently watching to see that it was safe. 

Antonio’s eye recovered from the surgery, the scarring didn’t return and there was significant improvement each month, Sabater said. Doctors recently measured the vision in Antoni’s right eye at a near-perfect 20/25. 

This year, Sabater began treating Antonio’s left eye, which had even more scar tissue. That one is also steadily improving, measuring close to 20/50, which Sabater said “is pretty good vision.” 

Antonio comes to the eye institute for checkups almost weekly and gets the drops once a month. During visits, Antonio must wear protective clothing covering his arms, hands, legs and feet. Like other kids with the condition — who are sometimes called “butterfly children” — his skin is so fragile that even a touch can wound him. 

Antonio still uses the skin gel, which was approved by the FDA in May and can also be used off-label on eyes. It doesn’t modify DNA, so it’s not a one-time treatment like many gene therapies. 

Sabater, director of the Corneal Innovation Lab at the eye institute, said gene therapy eyedrops could potentially be used for other diseases by changing the gene delivered by the virus. For example, a different gene could be used to treat Fuchs’ dystrophy, which affects 18 million people in the US and accounts for about half the nation’s corneal transplants. 

The prospect of treating more conditions this way is “exciting,” said Dr Aimee Payne, a dermatology professor at the University of Pennsylvania who isn’t involved in the research. The approach “delivers gene therapy that really addresses the root cause of disease”. 

With his vision restored, Antonio has enjoyed a typical teen pastime he’s wanted to do for quite a while: playing video games with his friends. And he finally feels safe walking around. 

Sabater said the two-year journey seeking government and hospital approvals “was worth it. Just for Antonio, it was worth it ... but also because it opens the space to treat other patients in the future”. 

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/health/gene-therapy-eyedrops-restored-a-boys-sight-similar-treatments-could-help-millions-528603

Why do we lose fat

The study sheds light on how wasting - losing fat and muscle - helps in battling infections.

Although infections can cause a variety of symptoms, one typical indication is the loss of fat and muscle, a process known as wasting. Salk researchers wanted to discover if wasting was useful in battling infections.

Why do we lose fat, muscle during infection? Study sheds light (Freepik )

Researchers in Professor Janelle Ayres’ lab discovered the wasting response to T brucei infection in mice occurs in two phases, each regulated by different immune cells. While fat loss did not benefit the fight against infection, muscle loss did—a surprising clue that some wasting may help manage illness.

The findings, published in Cell Reports on July 24, 2023, can inform the development of more effective therapeutics that spare people from wasting and increase our understanding of how wasting influences survival and morbidity across infections, cancers, chronic illnesses, and more.

“But if instead we ask, what is the purpose of wasting? We can find surprising and insightful answers that can help us understand the human response to infection and how we can optimize that response.”

Defending the body from an invader requires a lot of energy. Prior studies suggested this immune-related energy consumption had the unfortunate consequence of wasting. But Ayres and team were curious to know whether wasting could be beneficial and not just a side effect.

Specialized immune cells called T cells are slow to respond to infections, but when they do respond, they adapt to fight the particular infection. Ayres was interested to know whether it was these T cells causing wasting. If T cells are responsible for the condition, that would indicate wasting is not simply an unproductive side effect of energy-hungry immune cells.

The cells of interest are called CD4 and CD8 T cells. CD4 T cells lead the fight against infection and can promote the activity of CD8 T cells, which can kill invaders and cancerous cells. The two T cell types often work together, so the researchers hypothesized their role in wasting may be a cooperative effort, too.

To work out the relationship between CD4 and CD8 T cells and wasting, the researchers turned to the parasite T brucei. Because T brucei lives in fat and can block the adaptive immune response—which includes T cells—it was a perfect model infection for their questions about fat wasting and how T cells mediate that process.

The team investigated

1) the role of CD4 and CD8 T cells during T brucei infection and 

2) how removing CD4 and CD8 T cells changed the longevity, mortality rates, parasite symptoms, and amount of parasite present in infected mice.

The researchers found that CD4 T cells acted first and initiated the process of fat wasting. Afterwards, but completely independent of the fat wasting, CD8 T cells initiated the process of muscle wasting. The CD4 T cell-induced fat wasting had no impact on the ability for the mice to fight T brucei or to survive infection. The CD8 T cell-induced muscle wasting, however, contrary to the traditional assumptions about wasting, helped the mice fight T brucei and survive the infection.

"Our discoveries were so surprising that there were times I wondered if we did something wrong,” says first author Samuel Redford, a current visiting researcher and former graduate student in Ayres’ lab. “We had striking results that mice with fully functioning immune systems and mice without CD4 T cells lived the same amount of time—meaning, those CD4 T cells and the fat wasting they caused were completely disposable in fighting the parasite. And beyond that, we found that normally cooperative T cell subtypes were working totally independently of one another.”

The findings illustrate the important role of immune cells in both fat and muscle wasting and the necessity to understand the function of such responses to inform therapeutic interventions.

“We can learn so much about our immune systems by looking at the environments and infections we have co-evolved with,” says Ayres. “While T brucei is an interesting and important case, what is exciting is extrapolating our findings to understand, treat, and overcome any disease that involves immune-mediated wasting—parasites, tumors, chronic illnesses, and so much more.”

In the future, the team will examine the T cell mechanism in other mammals and eventually humans. They also want to explore in more detail why muscle wasting is occurring and why CD4 and CD8 T cells play these distinct roles.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/why-do-we-lose-fat-muscle-during-infection-study-sheds-light-101690259700178.html

Five foods rich in the highest prebiotic content

RESEARCHERS IDENTIFY TOP FIVE FOODS RICH IN THE HIGHEST PREBIOTIC CONTENT

THE STUDY FOUND THAT DANDELION GREENS, JERUSALEM ARTICHOKES, GARLIC, LEEKS, AND ONIONS HAVE THE HIGHEST PREBIOTIC CONTENT OF ANY FOOD.

Prebiotics are certain types of fibre that are frequently found in plants and encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, according to mounting evidence. Prebiotic consumption has been linked to improved gut health and researchers recently calculated the prebiotic content of thousands of different food kinds using previously published material to determine which foods have the highest prebiotic content.

Prebiotic consumption has been linked to improved gut health. (Pixabay)

The study found that dandelion greens, Jerusalem artichokes, garlic, leeks, and onions have the highest prebiotic content of any food. Prebiotic-rich foods contain significant amounts of fibre, which most Americans do not get enough of. Fibre supports gut microorganisms.

“Eating prebiotic-dense foods has been indicated by previous research to benefit health,” said Cassandra Boyd, a master’s student at San José State University who conducted the research with Assistant Professor John Gieng, PhD. “Eating in a way to promote microbiome wellness while eating more fibre may be more attainable and accessible than you think.”

Boyd presented the findings at NUTRITION 2023, the flagship annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition held July 22–25 in Boston.

Prebiotics, which can be thought of as food for the microbiome, are different from probiotics, which contain live microorganisms. Both can potentially benefit microbiome health, but they work in different ways.

Studies have linked higher prebiotic intake with improved blood glucose regulation, better absorption of minerals like calcium, and markers of improved digestive and immune function. Although most dietary guidelines do not currently specify a recommended daily allowance for prebiotics, the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics — a non-profit scientific organization that established the currently held definition of prebiotics — recommends an intake of 5 grams per day.

Researchers used previously published scientific findings for the study to analyze the prebiotic content of 8,690 foods contained in the Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies, a resource many scientists use to study nutrition and health.

About 37 per cent of the foods in the database were found to contain prebiotics. Dandelion greens, Jerusalem artichoke, garlic, leeks, and onions had the greatest amounts, ranging from about 100-240 milligrams of prebiotics per gram of food (mg/g). Other probiotic-rich foods included onion rings, creamed onions, cowpeas, asparagus, and Kellogg's All-Bran cereal, each containing around 50-60 mg/g.

“The findings from our preliminary literature review suggest that onions and related foods contain multiple forms of prebiotics, leading to a larger total prebiotic content,” said Boyd. “Multiple forms of onions and related foods appear in a variety of dishes as both flavouring and main ingredients. These foods are commonly consumed by Americans and thus would be a feasible target for people to increase their prebiotic consumption.”

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/researchers-identify-top-five-foods-rich-in-the-highest-prebiotic-content-101690186252528.html

B12 deficiency signs

B12 deficiency signs: Tingling in the hands and feet can be an early warning sign of vitamin B12 deficiency

Why is vitamin B12 important?

Our bodies need several vitamins and nutrients to carry out all the bodily functions properly. So if your body is deficient in certain vitamins, it can lead to minor or major health complications, depending from person to person.

Such is the case with vitamin B12 deficiency, an essential vitamin used by the body to create healthy red blood cells.

Risks of long term deficiency

Long-term vitamin B12 deficiency can be dangerous for your health. It can lead to potential lasting side effects such as nerve damage, heart failure and even stomach cancer. It is important to be aware of any warning symptoms to help detect the deficiency timely, and be treated immediately. Here are some common signs to note:

Tingling in the hands or feet

An early sign of vitamin B12-related nerve damage is tingling in the hands or feet. It may feel like having 'pins and needles'. This can happen due to nerve damage or nerve conduction problems due to absence of required amounts of vitamin B12 in the body.

Vitamin B12 and dementia risk

Since vitamin B12 supports nerve function, deficiency can even lead to permanent nerve damage that can result in cognitive decline (dementia).

Other symptoms

Vitamin B12 is vital for red blood cells to divide and become active. These red blood cells carry oxygen around the body. A lack of vitamin B12 can lead to fatigue due to the lack of oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood. This is called megaloblastic anemia. Apart from fatigue, other symptoms of B12 deficiency can include rapid breathing or shortness of breath, headaches, indigestion, loss of appetite, palpitations, problems with your vision, feeling weak, diarrhea, a sore or red tongue, problems with memory, understanding and judgment (cognitive changes). 06/6How to prevent B12 deficiency?

Vitamin B12 is found in animal product foods such as meat, fish, cheese, eggs and butter. For vegetarians, it can be found in fortified plant milks, fortified cereals, nutritional yeast such as Marmite and other processed foods such as some meat alternatives. However, according to health experts, these sources have not been shown to provide a reliable, adequate amount of vitamin B12. So, if you are vegetarian or vegan, it is recommended to take supplements after consultation with your doctor or certified nutritionist.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/b12-deficiency-signs-tingling-in-the-hands-and-feet-can-be-an-early-warning-sign-of-vitamin-b12-deficiency/photostory/102074332.cms

Studies underway on cases of sudden cardiac arrest among youngsters after Covid: Govt

The study among adults aged 18 to 45 in India is ongoing at around 40 hospitals/research centres

Studies underway on cases of sudden cardiac arrest among youngsters after Covid: Govt

Sudden deaths have been reported in some young people after Covid-19 but sufficient evidence is not available to confirm the cause, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya told Parliament on Friday.

The Indian Council of Medical Research is conducting three different studies to ascertain the facts regarding rising cases of cardiac arrest after the pandemic, Mandaviya said in response to a question in the Lok Sabha.

He said a multi-centric matched case control study on factors associated with sudden deaths among adults aged 18 to 45 in India is ongoing at around 40 hospitals/research centres.

Another multicentric hospital-based matched case control study is underway at around 30 COVID-19 clinical registry hospitals to determine the effect of the Covid vaccine on thrombotic events among the population aged 18 to 45 in 2022 in India.

Besides, another study for establishing the cause of sudden unexplained deaths in young people through virtual and physical autopsy is underway, Mandaviya said.

To address the health issues related to cardiovascular disease, the Centre's Department of Health and Family Welfare provides technical and financial support to states and Union

Territories under the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD).

Cardiovascular disease is an integral part of NP-NCD. The programme includes strengthening infrastructure, human resource development, health promotion, population-based screening of the population in the 30-year and above age group under the Ayushman Bharat Health Wellness Centre, early diagnosis, and management and referral to an appropriate level of health care facility.

Under NP-NCD, 724 district non-communicable disease clinics, 210 district cardiac care units, 326 district day care centres and 6,110 community health centre non-communicable disease clinics have been set up.

Cardiovascular disease patients are getting treatment at various health facilities in the healthcare delivery system, including medical colleges, central institutes such as AIIMS, central government and private sector hospitals, Mandaviya said.

There is also focus on cardiovascular diseases in its various aspects in case of new AIIMS and many upgraded institutions under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana.

To facilitate accessible and affordable health care and treatment under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), health insurance cover of Rs 5 lakh per family per year for secondary or tertiary care hospitalisation is provided to over 60 crore beneficiaries.

The treatment packages are comprehensive, covering various treatment related aspects such as drugs and diagnostic services.

Under the umbrella scheme of the Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi, financial assistance is provided to families living below the threshold poverty line for treatment in government hospitals.

Besides, quality generic medicines are made available at affordable prices to all under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana, in collaboration with the state governments.

Affordable medicines and reliable implants for treatment (AMRIT) pharmacy stores have been set up in some hospitals/institutions with an objective to make available cardiovascular drugs at a substantial discount, vis-à-vis the maximum retail price.

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/health/studies-underway-on-cases-of-sudden-cardiac-arrest-among-youngsters-after-covid-govt-527718

Omega-3 fatty acids help in maintaining lung health: Study

Omega-3 fatty acids, abundant in fish and fish oil supplements, are promising for maintaining lung health, according to new research from a sizable, thorough study in healthy individuals funded by the National Institutes of Health.

The study highlights the importance of consuming omega-3 fatty acids, especially in light of the fact that many Americans do not consume enough of them, and provides the most compelling evidence of this connection to date.

“We know a lot about the role of diet in cancer and cardiovascular diseases, but the role of diet in chronic lung disease is somewhat understudied,” said corresponding author Patricia A. Cassano, PhD, director of the Division of Nutritional Sciences at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. “This study adds to growing evidence that omega-3 fatty acids, which are part of a healthy diet, may also be important for lung health.”

Whether nutritional therapies could aid in the fight against lung illness has recently gained more attention. Because of their well-documented anti-inflammatory effects, omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to promising results in earlier studies. However, until recently, there haven't been any reliable investigations of this link. To learn more, researchers developed a two-part study investigating the link between omega-3 fatty acid levels in the blood and lung function over time. In the first part, the researchers conducted a longitudinal, observational study involving 15,063 Americans from the NHLBI Pooled Cohorts Study, a large collection of NIH-funded studies that helps researchers to study determinants of personalized risk for chronic lung disease.

The participants studied were generally healthy when the study began, and the majority had no evidence of chronic lung disease. They comprised a racially diverse group of adults, with an average age of 56 years, and 55 per cent were female. The researchers followed participants

for an average of seven years and up to 20 years. The longitudinal study showed that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in a person’s blood were associated with a reduced rate of lung function decline. The researchers observed the strongest associations for docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid that is found at high levels in fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and sardines. DHA is also available as a dietary supplement. In the second part, the researchers analysed genetic data from a large study of European patients (over 500,000 participants) from the UK Biobank. They studied certain genetic markers in the blood as an indirect measure, or proxy, for dietary omega-3 fatty acid levels to see how they correlated with lung health. The results showed that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids “including DHA” were associated with better lung function. One caveat of the current study is that it only included healthy adults. As part of this ongoing project, researchers are collaborating with the COPDGene study to examine blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids in relation to the rate of decline in lung function among people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD “including heavy smokers” to determine if the same beneficial associations are found.

“We’re starting to turn a corner in nutritional research and really moving toward precision nutrition for treating lung diseases,” said study first author Bonnie K. Patchen, PhD, a nutritionist and member of Cassanos research team at Cornell.

In the future, this could translate into individualized dietary recommendations for people at high risk for chronic lung disease. For now, the researchers point out that the US Department of Agriculture Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that people eat at least two servings of fish per week, which most Americans fall far short. In addition to fish and fish oil, other sources of omega-3 fatty acids include nuts and seeds, plant oils, and fortified foods.”This large population-based study suggests that nutrients with anti-inflammatory properties may help to maintain lung health,” said James P Kiley, PhD, director of the NHLBI’s Division of Lung Diseases. More research is needed since these findings raise interesting questions for future prospective studies about the link between omega-3 fatty acids and lung function.

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/health/omega-3-fatty-acids-help-in-maintaining-lung-health-study-528311

How soon can prediabetes transition to diabetes?

Of late, a lot is being discussed about prediabetes. As the name is, prediabetes happens just before the onset of diabetes, a metabolic disorder that has millions of people in its grip currently. Lack of awareness, underdiagnosis, and overlooking the symptoms of the disease are the main reasons why people are not aware of prediabetes when they should be and why it transitions to diabetes without giving any hint.

Dr. Rahul Baxi, Consultant Diabetologist, Bombay Hospital explains in a tweet: When glucose levels don’t meet the criteria for Diabetes but are still high to be considered normal. Includes

1. IFG - Impaired Fasting glucose - FPG 100-125 mg%

2. IGT (75 gm OGTT)- Impaired Glucose Tolerance - 2 hr PG 140-199 mg%

3. HbA1C - 5.7-6.4%

Adults with overweight or obesity with first degree relative with diabetes, history of cardiovascular disease, hypertension (high BP), HDL < 35 mg% or TG > 250 mg%, women with PCOS, physical inactivity, insulin resistance association should get tested for prediabetes or diabetes, he explains in the series of tweets.

Prediabetes is frequently asymptomatic, which means that a person might fail to notice any symptoms. The risk factors like obesity, sedentary lifestyle, lack of sufficient physical activity, and consumption of various carbohydrate, and fat, in excess amount, leads to pre-diabetes. Certain markers in the body, such as Acanthosis nigricans, along with various other indicators, can help identify individuals with a genetic background or a family history of prediabetes. These multiple aspects aids in determining whether a patient may be at risk of developing prediabetes,” explains Dr. Saibal Chakravorty, Senior Consultant - Internal Medicine, Metro Hospitals & Heart Institute, Noida.

Obesity or increased body weight, sedentary lifestyle, lack of physical activity, and intake of excess amount of fat and carbohydrate contribute to a faster transition, says Dr Chakravorty.

Dr Chakravorty highlights the common mistakes one makes and recommends precautions for them.

He explains: Precautions are extremely necessary. It is essential to encourage everyone to go ahead with the physical activity on a daily basis, and restrict their diet to the calories that are required as per their BMI, you can consult A dietician who will calculate the exact calorific value of the diet which is required for your body to keep the sugars under control.

“Apart from weight management, avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption, getting plenty of sleep, monitoring blood sugar levels at regular intervals and regular checkups are some precautionary steps one can take,” he says.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/how-soon-can-prediabetes-transition-to-diabetes/photostory/102041394.cms?picid=102041450

Anti-inflammatory medicine might work well in Alzheimer's treatment: Study

The study states that a number of anti-inflammatory drugs help in improving symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

A study is predicated on the idea that a number of anti-inflammatory drugs might work well as Alzheimer's disease (AD) treatments.

The Sanders-Brown Centre on Ageing at the University of Kentucky's Linda Van Eldik, PhD, released an article in PLOS ONE.

This investigation focused on the p38 protein. This protein has been investigated in numerous labs as a potential target for the creation of drugs to treat neuroinflammatory diseases like Alzheimer's.

In order to halt the synthesis of p38 in the main immune cell type in the brain, the microglia, Van Eldik and her team employed genetic approaches. They investigated whether this might affect the trajectory of amyloid plaque production, a crucial aspect of AD pathology, in an early-stage mouse model of the disease.

The proportion of microglia around the plaques was reduced, despite the fact that the plaques themselves were unaffected. This finding suggests that microglial p38 reduction may have an impact on how these microglia interact with various components of AD pathogenesis.

P38 inhibitors, which are now undergoing clinical development and have produced positive results in recent human clinical trials, are among the classes of anti-inflammatory medications.

However, it is still not clear when during the disease process these p38 inhibitors should be administered and whether long-term suppression of p38 is harmful.

The findings reported by the Van Eldik lab indicate that early inhibition of p38 may be able to alter interactions between brain immune cells and AD pathology, and they suggest that long-term suppression of p38 does not cause noticeable adverse effects.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/antiinflammatory-medicine-might-work-well-in-alzheimers-treatment-study-101690096644995.html

Omega-3 fatty acids help in maintaining lung health: Study

The study shows that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in a person’s blood were associated with a reduced rate of lung function decline.

Omega-3 fatty acids, abundant in fish and fish oil supplements, are promising for maintaining lung health, according to new research from a sizable, thorough study in healthy individuals funded by the National Institutes of Health. The study highlights the importance of consuming omega-3 fatty acids, especially in light of the fact that many Americans do not consume enough of them, and provides the most compelling evidence of this connection to date.

Omega-3 fatty acids, abundant in fish and fish oil supplements, are promising for maintaining lung health. (Shutterstock)

“We know a lot about the role of diet in cancer and cardiovascular diseases, but the role of diet in chronic lung disease is somewhat understudied,” said corresponding author Patricia A Cassano, PhD, director of the Division of Nutritional Sciences at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. “This study adds to growing evidence that omega-3 fatty acids, which are part of a healthy diet, may also be important for lung health."

"Whether nutritional therapies could aid in the fight against lung illness has recently gained more attention. Because of their well-documented anti-inflammatory effects, omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to promising results in earlier studies. However, until recently, there haven't been any reliable investigations of this link.To learn more, researchers developed a two-part study investigating the link between omega-3 fatty acid levels in the blood and lung function over time. In the first part, the researchers conducted a longitudinal, observational study involving 15,063 Americans from the NHLBI Pooled Cohorts Study — a large collection of NIH-funded studies that helps researchers to study determinants of personalized risk for chronic lung disease.

The participants studied were generally healthy when the study began, and the majority had no evidence of chronic lung disease. They comprised a racially diverse group of adults, with an average age of 56 years, and 55 per cent were female. The researchers followed participants for an average of seven years and up to 20 years.

The longitudinal study showed that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in a person’s blood were associated with a reduced rate of lung function decline. The researchers observed the strongest associations for docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid that is found at high levels in fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and sardines. DHA is also available as a dietary supplement.In the second part, the researchers analyzed genetic data from a large study of European patients (over 500,000 participants) from the UK Biobank. They studied certain genetic markers in the blood as an indirect measure, or proxy, for dietary omega-3 fatty acid levels to see how they correlated with lung health. The results showed that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids — including DHA — were associated with better lung function.

One caveat of the current study is that it only included healthy adults. As part of this ongoing project, researchers are collaborating with the COPDGene study to examine blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids in relation to the rate of decline in lung function among people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD — including heavy smokers — to determine if the same beneficial associations are found.

“We’re starting to turn a corner in nutritional research and really moving toward precision nutrition for treating lung diseases,” said study first author Bonnie K. Patchen, PhD, a nutritionist and member of Cassano’s research team at Cornell. “In the future, this could translate into individualized dietary recommendations for people at high risk for chronic lung disease.”

For now, the researchers point out that the US Department of Agriculture’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that people eat at least two servings of fish per week, which most Americans fall far short. In addition to fish and fish oil, other sources of omega-3 fatty acids include nuts and seeds, plant oils, and fortified foods.“This large population-based study suggests that nutrients with anti-inflammatory properties may help to maintain lung health,” said James P Kiley, PhD, director of the NHLBI’s Division of Lung Diseases. “More research is needed since these findings raise interesting questions for future prospective studies about the link between omega-3 fatty acids and lung function.”

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/omega3-fatty-acids-help-in-maintaining-lung-health-study-101690104271721.html

Healing naturally: Ayurvedic remedies for wounds and cuts to promote faster recovery

Discover the ancient healing wisdom of Ayurveda as we explore natural remedies for wounds and cuts. Embrace nature's soothing touch for faster recovery....

“First aid is the prompt, efficient assistance provided in the event of any emergency. If left untreated, even a little wound can develop into a severe condition owing to infections. First aid strives to protect life, avoid harm, and encourage a speedy recovery,” says Dr Dimple Jangda, Ayurveda &amp; gut health coach, in her recent Instagram post.(Freepik )

“Minor injuries like cuts, scrapes, and wounds are a necessary part of daily living. No matter how careful you are, you're still going to get hurt occasionally. Some of the best at-home treatments for these small injuries are provided by Ayurveda. However, it is advised to seek medical attention right away in the event of a serious or significant injury,” says Dr. Dimple. She further suggested some affective Ayurvedic remedies.(Freepik)

Turmeric soothes the pain, fastens healing, prevents infection and reduces the risk of formation of a scar. Curcumin, in turmeric, has anti- inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties that relieve inflammation and pain. The antibiotic action prevents bacterial infection of the wounds.(Pixabay) 

Coconut oil stops the bleeding, speeds up the healing process and protects the wound from dirt and dust. Coconut oil has anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties that protect wounds from infection.(pexels)

Neem has antiseptic and curative properties. It closes the wounds faster, protects them from infections, and reduces the pain and the chances of getting a scar.(Pixabay)

Tea tree oil has antiseptic and antibacterial properties that kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria. It gives instant relief in case of minor injuries.(Shutterstock )

https://www.hindustantimes.com/photos/lifestyle/healing-naturally-ayurvedic-remedies-for-wounds-and-cuts-to-promote-faster-recovery-101690113742622-2.html

Espresso coffee may prevent Alzheimer’s symptoms; lab study finds

To make espresso coffee, hot water is forced through finely ground coffee beans, creating a concentrated extract

Compounds in espresso coffee may inhibit a process that is believed to be involved in the onset of Alzheimer’s disease, according to early findings of a study conducted in lab.

To make espresso coffee, hot water is forced through finely ground coffee beans, creating a concentrated extract. This is often used as a base for other drinks, including the trendy espresso martini.

Recent research has suggested that coffee could also have beneficial effects against certain neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease.

In healthy people, tau proteins help stabilise structures in the brain, but when certain diseases develop, the proteins can clump together into fibrils—a process that is believed to be involved in the onset of Alzheimer’s.

The study, published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, nalaysed if compounds in espresso could prevent tau aggregation in vitro.

Researchers from the University of Verona in Italy pulled espresso shots from store-bought beans, then characterised their chemical makeup using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

They chose caffeine and trigonelline, both alkaloids, the flavonoid genistein and theobromine, a compound also found in chocolate, to focus on in further experiments.

These molecules, along with the complete espresso extract, were incubated alongside a shortened form of the tau protein for up to 40 hours.

As the concentration of espresso extract, caffeine or genistein increased, tau fibrils were shorter and didn’t form larger sheets, with the complete extract showing the most dramatic results.

Shortened fibrils were found to be non-toxic to cells, and they did not act as “seeds” for further aggregation. In other experiments, the researchers observed that caffeine and the espresso extract could both bind pre-formed tau fibrils.

Although much more research is needed, the team says its preliminary findings could pave the way towards designing other bioactive compounds against neurodegenerative diseases.

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/health/espresso-coffee-may-prevent-alzheimers-symptoms-lab-study-finds-527448

How diabetes slows healing in the eye: Research

The study explores the role of Diabetes in slowing down healing of the wounds in the eye.

For the first time, researchers from Cedars-Sinai have identified two connected disease-associated changes to the cornea that explain how diabetes slows down wound healing in the eye.

The research, which was published in the peer-reviewed journal Diabetologia, also discovered three therapeutic routes that may be used to reverse these modifications and partially restore the cornea's capacity to mend wounds. This finding may one day lead to the development of new diabetes treatments.

“We have found that diabetes induces more cellular changes than we were aware of previously,” said Alexander Ljubimov, PhD, director of the Eye Program at Cedars-Sinai’s Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute and senior author of the paper. “The discovery does not affect gene sequence but entails specific DNA modifications altering gene expression—what are known as epigenetic alterations.”

More than 37 million people in the United States—11% of the population—have diabetes, a systemic disorder that can result in kidney disease, heart disease, amputation, stroke and nerve damage. Most diabetes drugs are designed to increase glucose tolerance or supply depleted insulin, but do not address molecular and cellular changes or their associated complications.

The new research also identifies for the first time an important role of Wnt-5a, a secreted signaling protein investigators found responsible for corneal wound healing and the function of stem cells—cells capable of differentiating into many cell types.

“Current treatments only address symptoms, so there is an urgent need to understand the molecular mechanisms of diabetes-related wound-healing problems,” said Ruchi Shah, PhD, a scientist in Ljubimov’s lab and the study’s first author. “Understanding of this novel epigenetically regulated wound-healing mechanism could lead to therapeutic treatments that could help patients avoid further long-term ocular health issues.”

Though much focus of diabetic eye disease is on the retina, up to 70 per cent of diabetes patients suffer from problems of the cornea, the transparent, protective exterior surface of the eye. In advanced diabetes, corneal stem cells become dysfunctional, and the cornea heals more slowly and less completely following an injury or procedures such as cataract surgery and laser treatment for diabetic retinopathy.

To identify the epigenetic changes discovered in this study—changes not hard-wired into the genome from birth, but introduced later—Ljubimov and his team compared cells from the corneas from six diabetic patients with those of five healthy donors. They found that in diabetic corneas, the protein product of the WNT5A gene was repressed. Additionally, in diabetic samples, they found an increase in the microRNA that inhibits WNT5A.

The team of scientists then induced wounds to corneal cells in culture and corneal organ cultures, and tested three interventions designed to normalize Wnt-5a protein expression. They added the Wnt-5a protein directly; they introduced a DNA methylation inhibitor, originally approved to treat cancer; and they targeted microRNA levels with a novel gene therapy approach using a nanoscale compound. The team developed the compound, which uses synthetic molecules to block the microRNA, as a substitute for a viral gene therapy they found to be toxic to stem cells.

All three therapeutic methods, in the diabetic samples, stimulated stem cell marker production and improved tissue regeneration, accelerating wound healing.

“Novel therapies to reverse epigenetic effects could improve corneal function, and may also prove significant in other diabetic complications,” said Clive Svendsen, PhD, director of the Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute and study co-author. “This work certainly helps move the field forward.”

Investigators will continue to analyze their data to better understand the mechanisms of WNT5A and other genes related to wound healing. They are also studying a combination therapy to target both microRNA and DNA methylation in hopes that it will more thoroughly normalize wound healing by increasing Wnt-5a protein.

“Our goal is to develop topical, sustained-release drugs for corneal wound healing,” said Ljubimov. “Drugs that are FDA [Food and Drug Administration] approved and could be easily applied may be one of the most promising approaches for effective future therapies.”

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/how-diabetes-slows-healing-in-the-eye-research-101689837681081.html

Bipolar disorder associated with risk of early death from external causes: Study

The study shows that mood swings, an indicator of Bipolar disorder, can accelerate a person's risk of death from external causes, such as accidents and suicide.

Extreme mood swings are an indicator of bipolar disease, which increases a person's risk of premature death from external causes like accidents, violence, and suicide by six times.

The findings of the research were published in the open-access journal BMJ Mental Health.

And they are twice as likely to die from somatic (physical) causes, with alcohol a major contributing factor, the findings show.

A heightened risk of an early death from any cause has been consistently reported in those with bipolar disorder from several countries. But it’s not clear if there are particular drivers, or to what extent somatic illness—physical disease—contributes to this risk.

The Finnish researchers therefore drew on nationwide medical and social insurance registers to identify and track the health of all 15-64 year olds with bipolar disorder between 2004 and 2018.

They calculated the ratio of the number of deaths observed over a given period (around 8 years of monitoring) among those diagnosed with bipolar disorder to the number expected in the Finnish general population—the standard mortality ratio (SMR)—to find the excess deaths directly attributable to the condition.

|They tracked the outcomes of 47,018 people with bipolar disorder who were 38, on average, at the start of the monitoring period. More than half (57%) were women.

In all, 3300 (7%) of them died during the monitoring period compared with 141,536 people in the general population, equating to a 6-fold higher risk of death from external causes and a 2-fold higher risk of death from somatic causes.

Their average age at death was 50; almost two-thirds (65%; 2137) of these deaths were among men. The cause of death was somatic in 61% (2027) and external in 39% (1273).

Among the 2027 somatic illness deaths, alcohol caused the most at 29% (595); followed by heart disease and stroke (27%, 552); cancer (22%, 442); respiratory disease (4%,78); diabetes (2%,41); and behavioural disorders associated with other substance misuse (1%, 23). The remaining 15% (296) comprised various other causes.

Of the 595 alcohol-related deaths, liver disease accounted for nearly half (48%), followed by accidental alcohol poisoning (28%), and alcohol dependence (10%).

Among the external cause deaths, most were due to suicide (58%, 740), nearly half of which (48%) were due to overdose with prescribed mental health meds, including those used to treat bipolar disorder.

Overall, nearly two thirds (64%, 2104) of the deaths from any cause were excess deaths—higher than would be expected for comparable age and sex and directly attributable to bipolar disorder.

Of those due to somatic causes, 51% (1043) were excess deaths compared with 83% (1061) of those due to external causes.

Most of the excess deaths from somatic illness were either due to alcohol-related causes (40%)—a rate that is 3 times higher than that of the general population—cardiovascular disease (26%), or cancer (10%).

Of the excess deaths from external causes, 61% (651) were due to suicide, a proportion that is around 8 times higher than that of the general population.

Excess deaths from external causes were substantial in all age groups, but while most of the excess among 15–44 year olds was from external causes, external and somatic causes contributed in nearly equal numbers to this among 45–64 year olds.

The researchers excluded those diagnosed with schizophrenia and other psychotic illnesses, which may have resulted in an underestimation of the excess deaths due to bipolar disorder, they acknowledge. A history of persistent symptoms of psychosis, delusions and hallucinations is known to be associated with a greatly increased risk of death, they explain.

Given that external causes seem to have a greater role than physical illness in excess deaths among those with bipolar disorder, the current therapeutic focus on preventing physical illness to reduce this excess should be reconsidered, argue the researchers.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/bipolar-disorder-associated-with-risk-of-early-death-from-external-causes-study-101689837661282.html