Yoga for mental peace: Stress and anxiety relieving yoga asanas to try

Mindfulness is the practice of being fully aware and present in the current moment. It involves observing your surroundings and your inner experiences without judgment. This simple yet powerful technique can help reduce stress and anxiety in your daily life. Along with meditation, Tai chi, and other spiritual practices, mindfulness is a valuable tool for cultivating awareness and improving mental well-being.

Building focus

Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, yoga guru, founder, Akshar Yoga Kendraa says, “Mindfulness is often compared to yoga in its ability to train the mind to focus. Just as in meditation, where the attention is directed to the breath, body, and mind, mindfulness encourages us to pay attention to the present moment. With regular practice, you can learn to be a non-judgmental observer of your own thoughts and feelings.”

Keeps you in the present

One of the key benefits of mindfulness is that it removes the distractions of the past and the worries about the future. It allows you to connect with the here and now in a way that keeps you firmly rooted in the present. This is essential for managing stress and anxiety, as much of our unease is related to our inability to accept our reality without judgment.

Yoga cultivates mindfulness

Yoga, a well-known practice for improving physical and mental well-being, is also an effective technique for developing mindfulness. You can incorporate mindfulness into your yoga practice by paying close attention to your breath and body as you move through asanas (yoga poses), engage in pranayama (breathing exercises), and practice meditation. The following yoga techniques can help you enhance your mindfulness:

Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation)

Surya Namaskar is a sequence of yoga poses that pay homage to the Sun. It is traditionally performed in the morning before sunrise. This practice can bless you with physical and mental strength, improve your control over your body, calm your mind, balance your energies, and bring peace to your consciousness. By synchronizing movement with breath, Surya Namaskar fosters mindfulness and helps you become more aware of your body's sensations.

Sthiti Dhyan (Observation Meditation)

This meditation technique involves finding a quiet, preferably natural setting where you don't often go. You start by sitting in a comfortable posture, such as Sukhasana (Easy Pose), and spend a few moments observing your surroundings. Afterward, you close your eyes and try to recollect as many details as possible. This practice not only instills a sense of calmness but also enhances your observational skills and memory power.

Khand Pranayama (Segmented Breath)

Khand Pranayama is a breathing exercise that can improve lung capacity, stamina, and overall well-being. To practice it, sit in a comfortable pose, keep your back straight, and close your eyes. As you inhale, divide your breath into two equal parts, and then exhale twice without retaining the breath in your lungs. This pranayama not only benefits your physical health but also promotes mental clarity and focus. Mindfulness is a practice that, when integrated into your daily life, can bring about profound changes. It enables you to immerse yourself fully in whatever you are doing, which can reduce stress, enhance your performance, and provide insight into your own thoughts and feelings. As you develop self-awareness through mindfulness, you also become more attuned to the well-being of others. Mindfulness allows you to embrace the present moment without judgment, leading to a more peaceful and balanced existence.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/fitness/yoga-for-mental-peace-stress-and-anxiety-relieving-yoga-asanas-to-try/photostory/104021312.cms

World Heart Day: Does consumption of a small amount of alcohol affect your blood pressure

Elevated blood pressure is one of the risk factors for cardiac or heart disease. Does the consumption of a small amount of alcohol affect your blood pressure?

According to World Health Organization (WHO), alcohol consumption is considered as a risk factor for people suffering from comorbidities like hypertension, obesity and other risk factors include ageing, leading a sedentary lifestyle and eating a high salt diet. According to health experts, there are cardiovascular risks associated with light drinking as well, which is why WHO now maintains that there are no safe levels of alcohol consumption.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle on World Heart Day, Dr Farah Ingale, Director-Internal Medicine at Fortis Hiranandani Hospital in Vashi, revealed, “A recent study conducted involving 20,000 participants of various ethnicities, including those from United States, concluded that even low levels of alcohol when consumed regularly, can increase the systolic blood pressure in both men and women. This was regardless of their baseline blood pressure values. The above-mentioned study was then published in the American Heart Association's journal.”

She shared, “When the analysis was done at averages, it was found that 12 grams of alcohol consumption per day led to 1.25 mmHg increase in systolic blood pressure, which is by definition, even smaller than a standard drink. Higher amounts of consumption of alcohol were associated with a significant increase in systolic blood pressure - 48 grams of daily alcohol consumption led to an average increase in systolic blood pressure of 4.9 mmHg. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), for most adults, blood pressure is considered normal when the systolic reading is less than 120 mmHg, and the diastolic reading is below 80 mmHg. Hence, people are diagnosed with Hypertension when their systolic blood pressure is at least 130 mmHg, or when their diastolic readings are over 80 mmHg.”

Dr Farah Ingale concluded, “When patients do drink alcohol consistently, even if it’s 3-4 drinks a week, that can elevate their blood pressure. That elevated blood pressure is one of the risk factors for cardiac or heart disease and amongst many other things like smoking and diabetes, cholesterol and family history. Hence, in order to have a stable blood pressure, high risk patients should avoid consumption of alcohol.”

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/world-heart-day-does-consumption-of-a-small-amount-of-alcohol-affect-your-blood-pressure-101695953545050.html

World Heart Day: Severe Covid survivors face 2-3 times higher heart disease risk for a year, says AIIMS cardiologist

AIIMS cardiologist Dr Ambuj Roy says that people who have had severe Covid-19, face higher heart disease risk for at least one year.

Renowned AIIMS cardiologist Dr Ambuj Roy said that severe Covid-19 survivors face a greater risk of suffering from heart illnesses as compared to those who did not get the disease and should be more cautious about their health and monitor risk factors for cardiovascular diseases such as high BP, diabetes, and cholesterol.

Dr Ambuj Roy says heart attacks in India are on rise due to multiple factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, tobacco use, uncontrolled high BP, stress and obesity.

"For people who have had severe Covid-19, their risk of heart ailments is higher by 2-3 times for at least one year. They need to exercise greater caution and ensure that they have their assessment done for risk factors for heart disease like diabetes, hypertension and bad cholesterol and make sure they are treated for the same if needed," said Dr. Ambuj Roy, Professor of Cardiology, AIIMS New Delhi, in an exclusive conversation with HT Digital.

Dr Roy says heart attacks in India are on rise due to multiple factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, tobacco use, uncontrolled high BP, stress and obesity.

"The high rate of heart attacks in India is due to a combination of factors. Poor dietary choices, insufficient physical activity, tobacco use, unmanaged hypertension, stress and obesity especially central obesity that is truncated fat. all these factors exacerbate the prevalence of heart attacks in the country," said the renowned cardiologist.

"In India, lifestyle changes in the last decade have played a huge role in increasing the incidence of heart diseases among the population. For instance, smoking and usage of e-cigarettes has steadily increased among the youth, which poses a major risk to the heart. At the same time, India is touted as the diabetes capital of the world because of the massive disease burden. Further, South Asians are also genetically predisposed to heart diseases, which complicates matters further," said Dr Roy.

How to reduce risk of heart attack

Adopting a healthy lifestyle with special focus on green vegetables and fruits, regular exercise, saying no to smoking, managing stress and weight can go a long way in taking care of heart health.

"Reducing the risk of a heart attack involves adopting behaviours that mitigate the risk and addressing any existing risk factors for heart disease. Embracing a heart-healthy lifestyle, which includes balanced eating rich in greens and fruits, regular physical activity, smoking cessation, stress management, and weight maintenance, is key to heart disease prevention. These changes remain beneficial even if you already have coronary artery disease, as they can diminish the likelihood of a heart attack. Additionally, it's crucial to seek treatment for other health conditions that elevate heart attack risk," said Dr Ambuj Roy.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/world-heart-day-severe-covid-2-3-times-higher-heart-disease-risk-aiims-cardiologist-dr-ambuj-roy-interview-101695908951186.html

Is a healthy diet enough for a healthy heart? Expert shares cholesterol care tips on World Heart Day

To protect your heart, it's crucial to understand and know your target LDL-C levels. Here are cholesterol care tips by health expert on World Heart Day

According to the Global Burden of Disease, nearly a quarter i.e. 24.8% of all deaths in India are due to heart diseases where among Indians, causes of concern are early age of onset, rapid progression and high mortality rate but additionally, high levels of cholesterol can significantly increase the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular problems. Health experts insist that now, more than ever, it is your heart's call to action for informed living because typically, high cholesterol symptoms are hard to detect as they do not create any noticeable symptoms but create complications as the level increases.

Is a healthy diet enough for a healthy heart? Expert shares cholesterol care tips on World Heart Day

It is important to keep low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), often referred to as "bad cholesterol", levels in check as elevated LDL-C can contribute to the formation of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease like heart attcks and stroke. To protect your heart, it is crucial to understand and know your target LDL-C levels.  

In an interview with HT Lifestyle on World Heart Day, Dr Rahul Sharma, Additional Director Cardiology at Fortis Escort Heart Institute and Research in Jaipur, said, “As a cardiologist, I have seen the importance of cholesterol management to prevent heart diseases. While diagnosing patients I have noticed that a significant number of patients with heart diseases have high cholesterol levels, which makes it crucial to understand and maintain your cholesterol levels, including HDL-C (good cholesterol) and LDL-C (bad cholesterol), as many patients are unaware of the link between cholesterol and heart diseases. Regular check-ups to know your LDL-C levels are essential and it is crucial to discuss treatment plans with a cardiologist to help maintain one’s overall well-being and healthy heart.”

What is the link between cholesterol and a healthy heart?

Cholesterol levels play a significant role in heart health. It is a waxy, fat-like substance necessary to make hormones and vitamin D, and to help you digest food. Your body produces cholesterol and it's also found in few sources of food.

 Are Indians more prone to cholesterol-linked heart problems?

Indians are significantly affected by cardiovascular disease, making it a major health concern in the country. Cholesterol problems are very common among South Asians due to genetic risk, lack of physical activity and suboptimal dietary habits. According to the Indian Heart Association, LDL and total cholesterol levels among Indians are higher in comparison to other Asians. Additionally, the high prevalence of hypertension and diabetes further aggravate the risk of cardiovascular complications. Prioritising cholesterol management and maintaining a healthy lipid profile are essential components of overall cardiovascular well-being.

Is a healthy diet enough for a healthy heart?

Consumption of fat-free, organic vegetables does not mean that you've got your cholesterol control covered. In reality, cholesterol management needs a comprehensive plan. It involves maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active, and adhering to medication to keep your LDL-C levels in target range.

Understanding this intricate interplay between cholesterol, particularly LDL-C, and heart diseases underscores the importance of proactive management to mitigate risks and safeguard heart health, talk to your doctor today if you think you may be at risk for high cholesterol so you can take action before it’s too late.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/is-a-healthy-diet-enough-for-a-healthy-heart-expert-shares-cholesterol-care-tips-on-world-heart-day-101695954852365.html

Chinese virologist warns ‘Disease X’ could be next pandemic, kill 50 million people

Another Covid outbreak, akin to the recent deadly pandemic, may be “highly likely”, warned Chinese virologist Shi Zhengli, best known as 'batwoman', in a new study.

In the study, Shi and colleagues from the Wuhan Institute of Virology evaluated the human spillover risk of 40 coronavirus species.

The findings published in the English-language journal Emerging Microbes and Infections in July reported 20 ‘highly risky' coronavirus species.

“If a coronavirus caused diseases to emerge before, there is a high chance it will cause future outbreaks,” she was quoted as saying by the South China Morning Post (SCMP).

Of the 40 species, six are already known to have caused diseases that infected humans, while there is evidence that a further three caused disease or infected other animal species.

“It is almost certain that there will be future disease emergence and it is highly likely a (coronavirus) disease again,” the study warned.

The study was based on an analysis of viral traits, including population, genetic diversity, host species and any previous history of zoonosis – diseases that jump from animals to humans, the SCMP reported.

Shi and her colleagues also identified important hosts of the pathogen, which include natural hosts such as bats and rodents, or possible intermediate hosts, including camels, civets, pigs or pangolin.

The study comes as the former chair of the UK Vaccine Taskforce Kate Bingham in a new book warned of a next pandemic that could come from a million unknown viruses and kill about 50 million people.

According to the experts, thousands of different viruses could evolve to spark a pandemic. There is also a risk that viruses could jump between species and "mutate dramatically".

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/health/chinese-virologist-warns-disease-x-could-be-next-pandemic-kill-50-million-people-547958

Why are women more likely to die of cancer?

The report, “Women, Power and Cancer”, highlights how societal apathy towards women’s health, lack of awareness and absence of quality expertise at the primary care level delayed their access to cancer prevention, detection and care.

Thirty six-year old Rama Devi from Mumbai’s Nala Sopara area did not know that her headaches stemmed from a developing brain cancer as her alcoholic husband never thought it merited a basic consultation. “If you die, then die. If you live, then live,” he told her as she went through physical abuse. The local doctor dismissed her condition as an eye problem. It was because of her father-in-law, a small-time vendor, who ensured she got medical attention and diagnosis. Her story is a representative case of women living with cancer, domestic violence and poverty, who cannot access treatment and quickly degenerate into advanced stages. She features among many others in a new Lancet Commission report on gender inequity in cancer care.

The report, titled “Women, Power and Cancer,” highlights how societal apathy towards women’s health, lack of knowledge, awareness and absence of quality expertise at the primary care level delayed their access to cancer prevention, detection and care. The study authors found that nearly two-thirds of the cancer deaths in Indian women were preventable and 37 per cent were treatable if only they had been diagnosed on time and accessed optimal care. Around 6.9 million cancer deaths in women were preventable and 4.03 million were treatable.

Dr Ishu Kataria, Commissioner, Lancet, pointed out that women in India diagnosed with cancer died because of family apathy, their own indifference to their condition, lack of access and finance. Emphasising the need for a feminist approach to cancer, she says, “We need cancer to be seen as a priority issue in women’s health. Women interact with cancer in various ways, not only as people living with the disease but also as unpaid caregivers, individuals participating in cancer prevention and screening at the national level, healthcare providers, researchers and policy makers. In this context they face gender bias and discrimination on multiple fronts, be it due to their age, ethnicity, socio-economic status, gender identity or sexual orientation. This hinders their ability to seek good quality care for both diagnosis and treatment.”

To be the biggest risk factor for cancer in Indian women, contributing to 23 per cent of deaths. Infections that increase the risk of cancers include the HPV virus, which causes cervical cancer, and Hepatitis B and C infections that increase the risk of liver cancer. Tobacco was the second important risk factor for cancer, contributing to six per cent of the cancer deaths, the report said. Alcohol consumption and obesity each contributed to one per cent of cancer mortality in India.

Rama’s case is representative of many dispossessed women in India. Married at the age of 16 to a man 15 years older, she birthed two daughters, now aged 18 and 13, and a son, currently aged five. Rama’s husband drives an auto-rickshaw in the day and drinks at night, too self-involved to bother about her headaches and vomitting, which began in 2015. For two years, Rama consulted a local doctor, who dismissed it as an eye problem, recommending glasses that she got made for Rs 1,000. But her headaches and the vomiting continued and she was admitted to a hospital and diagnosed with brain cancer. With an apathetic husband, the family ran into financial problems forcing the children to drop out of school. Her elder daughter took up a factory job while Rama sold her family jewellery.

The trend in Lancet is also echoed by patients at Tata Memorial Centre’s Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre at Muzaffarpur, Bihar. Thirty nine-year-old Ranidevi (name changed) from the nearby Kanhara village developed a small ulcer on the right side of her tongue last December. Her salesman-husband took her to a local doctor, who assured them that it would heal with pills and ointments. The doctor failed to gauge the seriousness of the situation and it was only seven months later, when she had difficulty in eating and swallowing, that she came to the centre and was diagnosed with Stage IV tongue cancer. Here access was not the problem but the local doctor’s lack of knowledge was. Ranidevi is now struggling to speak as 80 per cent of her tongue has been removed. “Had she come in early, only 20 per cent of her tongue would have been removed. She would not have required a tracheostomy to breathe and her quality of life would have been better,” says Dr Burhanuddin Qayyumi, Assistant Professor, Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Muzaffarpur.

Ranidevi’s story is like many others in the Lancet study who fail to seek early treatment due to multiple reasons, be it family responsibilities or not taking their condition seriously enough. “Awareness is important among women who are educationally and financially less empowered,” says Dr Pankaj Chaturvedi, Deputy Director, Centre for Cancer Epidemiology, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai.

https://indianexpress.com/article/health-wellness/over-63-cancer-deaths-of-indian-women-were-preventable-lancet-8957750/

Sugar's bitter mechanism: Here’s how it can be leading you to cancer

While including sugar in your diet can help you stay healthy, going overboard with sugary foods and drinks, can go over your daily allowance and cause a number of health problems.

Sugar, a ubiquitous element in modern diets, has been a topic of ongoing research concerning its potential link to cancer development. Delving into this relationship is crucial to understanding how our daily lifestyle choices, particularly our sugar consumption, may affect our risk of cancer. While sugar consumption can be part of a balanced diet, overreliance on sugary diets, especially from beverages, can exceed recommended daily limits and potentially contribute to various health concerns, including an increased risk of metabolic syndrome and obesity. Current guidelines suggest that sugar consumption, within appropriate limits, is generally considered safe. For instance, the American Heart Association recommends a daily sugar intake of up to 25 grams for females and 35 grams for males. The key lies in moderation and being mindful of the sources of sugar in our diets. In contemporary society, sugar has become a ubiquitous component of our daily diets. Sugary beverages, such as colas and sodas, are particularly concerning due to their high sugar content. Studies indicate that the average American consumes around 77 grams of sugar daily from these beverages, far surpassing the recommended daily limits. The proliferation of sugar consumption can be traced back to the post-World War II era. The surplus production of sugar in the UK during that time revealed its popularity, primarily due to its brain-activating properties. Sugar's ability to enhance brain activity has even been subtly exploited in commercial strategies, where shopkeepers offer sugar-laden tea or coffee to stimulate purchasing behavior.

Sugar and its metabolic effects

Excessive sugar intake, especially from beverages and processed foods, can contribute to the accumulation of fats in the body. This can lead to weight gain and obesity, conditions associated with an elevated risk of various health issues, including cancer.

Sugar sources and impact on health

Sugar derived from natural sources like fruits, vegetables, and grains is less concerning compared to added sugars found in processed foods and beverages. The latter can have a more pronounced negative impact on health due to their rapid absorption and potential to disrupt metabolic processes.

Why is it crucial to delve into the relationship between sugar and cancer?

Dr. Minish Jain Director Medical Oncology Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune says, “Cancer is a complex disease with many contributing factors, including genetics, environment, and lifestyle. While there is no single cause of cancer, research has shown that sugar intake may play a role in its development and progression. One reason why it is crucial to delve into the relationship between sugar and cancer is that sugar consumption is on the rise worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, the average global intake of added sugars has increased by 10% since 1975. This increase in sugar consumption is likely contributing to the growing cancer burden worldwide.”

How do your daily lifestyle choices affect your risk of cancer?

Your daily lifestyle choices, such as diet, exercise, and smoking, can all have an impact on your risk of cancer. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking are all important for reducing your cancer risk. Diet is a particularly important lifestyle factor for cancer prevention. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains has been shown to reduce the risk of many types of cancer, including colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and lung cancer. On the other hand, eating a diet high in processed foods, sugary drinks, and red meat has been linked to an increased risk of cancer.

How is added sugar related to the development of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS)?

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high triglycerides, and low HDL cholesterol. People with metabolic syndrome have an increased risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Added sugar is a major contributor to the development of metabolic syndrome. When you eat or drink sugary foods and beverages, your body releases insulin to help regulate your blood sugar levels. However, over time, high levels of insulin can lead to insulin resistance, which is a hallmark of metabolic syndrome

What happens within your body when you indulge in high-sugar foods and beverages?

When you indulge in high-sugar foods and beverages, your body experiences a surge in blood sugar levels. Your pancreas releases insulin in response to this. Insulin helps to move glucose from your bloodstream into your cells, where it can be used for energy If you consume more sugar than your body needs, the excess glucose is converted into fat and stored in your liver and other tissues. This can eventually result in weight gain and obesity. In addition to its effects on blood sugar levels and weight gain, sugar can also promote inflammation and oxidative stress. Inflammation and oxidative stress are two key processes that have been linked to the development of cancer.

How does metabolic syndrome increase your risk of developing cancer?

People with metabolic syndrome have an increased risk of developing many types of cancer, including liver cancer, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and pancreatic cancer. There are a few reasons why metabolic syndrome may increase cancer risk. First, people with metabolic syndrome tend to have higher levels of insulin and insulin resistance. Insulin can promote the growth of cancer cells. Second, people with metabolic syndrome are more likely to be overweight or obese, which is a risk factor for many types of cancer. Third, people with metabolic syndrome are more likely to have chronic inflammation, which can also promote the development of cancer.

Recent studies on the relationship between sugar and cancer

A number of recent studies have shed light on the relationship between sugar and cancer. For example, a 2022 study published in the journal Cancer found that people who consumed the highest amount of added sugar had a 28% higher risk of developing colorectal cancer than those who consumed the lowest amount of added sugar. Another 2022 study, published in the journal Nature Reviews Cancer, found that high sugar intake can promote cancer development and progression in a number of ways. For example, sugar can: Increase inflammation Promote oxidative stress Alter DNA methylation Disrupt immune function Promote cancer cell growth and survival

The takeaway

The evidence is mounting that sugar intake may play a role in the development and progression of cancer. It is important to be aware of the risks associated with high sugar consumption and to make healthy choices about your diet. You can reduce your sugar intake by limiting your consumption of processed foods, sugary drinks, and sweets. You can also increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods are low in sugar and high in nutrients, which can help to protect you against cancer and other chronic diseases. While the relationship between sugar consumption and cancer is a topic of ongoing research and debate, the impact of excessive sugar intake on our overall health cannot be denied. Understanding the potential risks associated with high sugar consumption and making conscious dietary choices is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and reducing the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases. It is crucial to strike a balance and consume sugar in moderation, primarily from natural sources like fruits and vegetables, to promote overall well-being and reduce the risk of developing serious health conditions.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/sugars-bitter-mechanism-heres-how-it-can-be-leading-you-to-cancer/articleshow/103966187.cms

Genetic code of rare kidney cancer: Research

The study investigates the inherited characteristics of reninoma - a rare form of kidney cancer.

For the first time, the inherited characteristics of reninoma, a rare form of kidney cancer, have been investigated. Researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute, Great Ormond Street Hospital, and The Royal Free Hospital also identified a potential pharmacological target that may be used as an alternative to surgery in the new report.

The findings were published in Nature Communications.

Reninoma is one of the rarest cancers in humans, with just about 100 instances having been identified globally to date (1). Even though surgery can usually treat it, it can still spread and generate metastases or cause severe hypertension. Reninoma is currently managed only by surgery since there are no available medication treatments. It was unknown till now.

Researchers discovered that the development of this rare cancer is caused by a specific error in the genetic code of the cancer gene NOTCH1.

The team examined two cancer samples — from a young adult and a child (2) — with advanced genomic techniques, known as whole genome and single nuclear sequencing (3). Their findings suggest that the use of existing drugs targeting this specific gene is a possible solution to treating reninoma for patients where surgery is not a viable option.

Taryn Treger, first author of the study and The Little Princess Trust Fellow at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, said: “Many cancerous tumours have already been deciphered with genomic technologies, however, this is not so true in rare cancers, particularly those affecting children. Our work aims to fill that gap. This is the first time that we have identified the drivers for reninoma and we hope that our work continues to pave the way towards new therapies for childhood cancers.”

Dr Tanzina Chowdhury, co-lead author of the study, at Great Ormond Street Hospital, said: “Rare kidney cancers known as reninomas do not respond to conventional anti-cancer therapies. The only known treatment at the moment is surgery. Our study shows that, actually, there is a specific and well-studied gene that drives this rare cancer. If we use already known drugs that affect this gene, we might be able to treat it without the need for an invasive technique such as surgery.”

Dr Sam Behjati, co-lead author of the study, Wellcome Senior Research Fellow at the Wellcome Sanger Institute and Honorary Consultant Paediatric Oncologist at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, said: “Rare cancers are exceedingly challenging to study, and patients with such tumours may therefore not benefit from cancer research. Here, we have a powerful example of cutting-edge science rewriting our understanding of an ultra rare tumour type, reninoma, whilst delivering a finding that potentially has immediate clinical benefits for patients.”

Phil Brace, Chief Executive of The Little Princess Trust, said: “We are committed to funding research searching for more effective treatments for all childhood cancers and so we are delighted to hear of the discoveries that have been made. We also want to help researchers find kinder solutions for young people and so we are very pleased to hear there may be ways to treat this rare kidney cancer without the need for surgery.”

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/genetic-code-of-rare-kidney-cancer-research-101695705126504.html

World Rabies Day: Can rabies be cured? Symptoms and stages of the infection in humans

Rabies is a deadly viral infection that affects humans and animals, transmitted primarily through the saliva of infected animals.

World Rabies Day is observed every year on September 28 in order to bring awareness about the world’s deadliest infectious disease. Rabies is a deadly viral infection that is spread by the bite of an infected animal such as stray dogs, coyotes, fox, bats, among others. It is very important to immediately take vaccination after potential exposure to prevent rabies as once the symptoms start showing, it turns fatal, and in most cases results in death. The symptoms begin with fever, and headache, and progress to hallucination, confusion, fear of water, paralysis and eventually coma. One should be very careful while touching or feeding wild animals or pets like dogs or cats. It is very important to vaccinate your pet to protect them from the infection and in turn protecting yourself.

It is very important to immediately take vaccination after potential exposure to prevent rabies as once the symptoms start showing, it turns fatal,

"Rabies is a deadly viral infection that affects humans and animals, transmitted primarily through the saliva of infected animals, typically via bites. Unfortunately, once clinical symptoms manifest, rabies is almost invariably fatal, and there is no known cure for it," says Dr Aniket Mule, consultant internal medicine, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road.

Stages of rabies

The progression of the disease in humans follows distinct stages. From relatively mild symptoms, the disease eventually affects the patient severely, leading to respiratory failure and death.

"The incubation period, which can vary from days to years, marks the time between initial infection and the onset of symptoms. Next, the prodromal phase emerges, featuring early, flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, and discomfort at the site of the wound. This phase lasts only a few days, leading to the acute neurologic phase, the most severe stage. During this phase, individuals exhibit symptoms such as confusion, hallucinations, agitation, and hydrophobia (fear of water), often progressing to paralysis," says Dr Mule.

Dr Mule says once these neurologic symptoms surface, the disease becomes virtually incurable, with death as the inevitable outcome.

What happens in final stage of rabies

"In the final stage, victims may fall into a coma, ultimately succumbing to respiratory failure. Preventative measures, including immediate vaccination after potential exposure, remain the most effective means of combating rabies and saving lives. Vigilance and swift action are paramount in regions where rabies is prevalent, as this disease demands proactive prevention," concludes the expert.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/world-rabies-day-can-rabies-be-cured-symptoms-and-stages-of-the-infection-in-humans-101695723253518.html

What is Disease X; can this potential threat be deadlier than Covid? Doctor explains

While Covid-19 pandemic is almost over, healthcare professionals are now preparing for a potential new pandemic called Disease X.

The next pandemic could take 50 million lives said Dame Kate Bingham, who chaired the UK's Vaccine Taskforce saying that it might already be on its way and that Covid-19 was not that lethal. The new pandemic has been dubbed Disease X by World Health Organisation (WHO) and Bingham says it could be 20 times deadlier than Coronavirus. Bingham told Daily Mail, “The world will have to prepare for mass vaccination drives and deliver the doses in record time…Imagine Disease X is as infectious as measles with the fatality rate of Ebola (67 per cent). Somewhere in the world, it's replicating, and sooner or later, somebody will start feeling sick.”

According to Bingham, while scientists have identified 25 virus families encompassing thousands of individual viruses, there are millions of other viruses yet to be discovered, reported the Daily Mail. 

"While Covid-19 and its variants have impact in terms of recurring and familiar health issues, healthcare professionals are now preparing for a potential new pandemic called Disease X. Healthcare experts have issued a caution that this new virus can be as devastating as the Spanish Flu. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Disease X refers to pathogen - known/potentially unknown that can cause large scale, serious pandemic leading to mass scale human disease," says Dr Neha Rastogi, Consultant, infectious disease, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram.

What is Disease X?

"Disease X is possibly and plausibly caused by a 'pathogen X'. It could be related to zoonotic disease likely an RNA virus, emerging from an area where the epidemiological triad - environment host favours sustained transmission. These emerging/re-emerging z pathogens can be labelled as X and they are a threat which mandates intense and ongoing active surveillance and monitoring," says Dr Rastogi.

There are postulated data about the possibility of syndrome X as an engineered pandemic pathogen. Incidental laboratory accidents or as an act of bioterrorism, might lead to a disastrous Disease X which can be potentially pose global catastrophic risk, says the expert.

Prevention

"Containment and mitigation strategies involve development and implementation of uniform international guidelines to control bioterrorism. Immediate and appropriate travel restrictions including strict airport screening requires to be implemented to contain the spread of pathogen X across borders. It also necessitates collaborative approach of global leaders, scientists, epidemiologists, and infectious disease experts to investigate, control, and eliminate disease X. Widespread and mass testing, surveillance and aggressive contact tracing are potential effective tools to timely contain outbreak like situations," says Dr Rastogi.

"Concentrated efforts to accelerate the access, rapid availability of immediate medical measures - test kits, vaccines, and first aid required before and during the pandemic. Ongoing continuum of research on preventive aspect -development and process of vaccines needs boost and heightened priorities to abate and combat severe adverse consequences of disease X," she says.

"A One Health approach which aims at bridging institutional gaps, building and stratifying priority risk and alert pathogens and emphasizing on mitigation strategies for emerging and re-emerging pathogens - potential disease X should be the need of an hour to prevent these global and global catastrophes," concludes the expert.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/what-is-disease-x-can-this-potential-threat-be-deadlier-than-covid-doctor-explains-101695737927298.html