The nutraceutical market in India is experiencing rapid growth, demanding enhanced regulatory oversight. Dr. Srinivas Rao Chinta from the Ministry of Ayush emphasized the critical need for stringent quality control mechanisms. The integration of Ayurvedic principles with modern supplement development presents a unique opportunity for India's health science sector. With a rich traditional knowledge base and emerging startup ecosystem, the nutraceutical industry stands poised for significant global expansion.
February 25, 2025
Need for stringent regulations, quality control in Nutraceuticals market: Ayush official
"Licensing
is a key factor that should not be overlapped in this emerging market" -
Dr. Srinivas Rao Chinta, Ayush Ministry
New Delhi,
Feb 25: There is an urgent need for stringent regulations and quality control
in the growing Nutraceuticals market in the country, a key Ministry of Ayush
official said on Tuesday.
Key Points
1 Nutraceuticals require robust regulatory mechanisms
2 Ayurvedic principles integral to supplement development
3 Health and wellness sector witnessing exponential growth
4 Traditional knowledge driving global nutraceutical expansion
Dr Srinivas
Rao Chinta, Joint Advisor of Ministry of Ayush, asked for regulatory aspects to
be advanced to increase efficiency and safety issues.
Licensing
is a key factor that should not be overlapped in this emerging market, he said
during the Assocham’s ‘10th Nutraceutical Summit’ in the national capital.
Nutraceuticals
are the formulation of nutrients which helps in prevention and treatment of
some diseases, in addition to a supplement diet.
Dr Chinta
focused on the importance of Nutraceuticals and how regulatory bodies play a
key role in monitoring products for daily usage.
He
advocated the holistic approach of Ayurveda routine that is being followed with
the help of Nutraceuticals as everybody is concerned for their health these
days.
The
integration of Ayurvedic principles into modern Nutraceuticals has been a focal
point in recent policy developments.
The FSSAI,
in collaboration with Ayush Ministry, introduced the 'Ayush Aahar' category to
regulate and promote Ayurvedic nutritional supplement to ensure that products
align with traditional Ayurvedic recipes and processes thereby facilitating
their production and marketing.
According
to Sandeep Verma, Co-Chairperson, Assocham National Wellness Council, expressed
how consumers continue prioritising health and wellness and the nutraceutical
industry is poised for exponential growth.
With
advancements in personalised nutrition and AI-driven supplement
recommendations, the future of nutraceuticals looks promising, he noted.
Meanwhile,
the country’s Nutraceutical industry is looking to expand globally with support
from its rich heritage of traditional knowledge, especially in Ayurveda.
India’s
longstanding history in health science, especially Ayurveda, offering unique
traditional knowledge is a key advantage in the Nutraceutical industry.
Moreover, besides expertise in pharmaceutical formulation, influencing
high-quality nutraceutical standards, the country also boasts of a thriving
startup ecosystem with a growing number of successful nutraceutical companies
catalysing sectoral growth.
Elderly, middle-aged at high risk of developing and dying from cancer: ICMR study
A groundbreaking ICMR study has unveiled alarming cancer trends in India, showing elderly and middle-aged populations are most vulnerable. The research indicates that people aged 70 and above have the highest cancer development and mortality rates, with a 10% and 7.7% risk respectively. Middle-aged individuals also face significant challenges, with an 8.3% cancer development probability. The study underscores the urgent need for targeted healthcare interventions to address the mounting cancer burden in the country.
"About
70 per cent of cancer cases and deaths occur in middle- and older-age
groups" - ICMR Researchers
Elderly,
middle-aged at high risk of developing and dying from cancer: ICMR study
Older
adults and middle-aged adults are more at risk of developing cancer, and dying
from the deadly disease in India, according to a study led by the Indian
Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
Key Points
1 Elderly face over 10% cancer development risk
2 Middle-aged adults show 8.3% cancer incidence
3 India expects two percent yearly cancer case increase
4 Three in five diagnosed cancer patients likely to die
The study
published in 'The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia journal showed that the
elderly (aged 70 years and above) had the highest risk of developing cancer --
more than 10 per cent --, and dying from it -- 7.7 per cent.
The risk of
middle-aged (15-49 years) developing cancer is 8.3 per cent, while their odds
of dying from the disease is 5.5 per cent.
The
researchers emphasised the need to increase targeted interventions and
strategies "to tackle the escalating cancer burden in India, with about 70
per cent of cases and deaths occurring in the middle- and older-age
groups", the team said.
The ICMR
researchers also projected that in the coming two decades, India will face a
formidable challenge in managing deaths related to cancer incidence, with a
yearly increase of two per cent in cases as the population ages.
Using the
Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) 2022 and Global Health Observatory (GHO)
databases, the team examined trends in 36 types of cancer across age groups and
genders in India over the past 20 years.
Notably, it
showed that three in every five people in India are likely to succumb to cancer
following diagnosis.
The findings
also revealed that the five most common cancers affecting both genders
collectively account for 44 per cent of the cancer burden in India.
However,
women in India were found to bear a "disproportionate burden", as
breast cancer continues to be the most prevalent cancer. Breast cancer
contributes to 13.8 per cent of new cases from both genders followed by
cervical cancer (9.2 per cent).
Exercise may boost survival in cancer patients post-treatment
A groundbreaking study from Louisiana State University demonstrates the powerful impact of exercise on colon cancer survival rates. Researchers discovered that patients engaging in higher levels of physical activity (over 18 MET-hours/week) experienced significantly better long-term survival outcomes. The research analyzed data from 2,875 patients, revealing that consistent exercise could potentially eliminate survival disparities after cancer treatment. This study offers hope and practical guidance for cancer survivors seeking to improve their health through manageable lifestyle changes.
"Patients
can control physical activity levels to impact long-term prognosis" - Dr.
Justin C. Brown
Exercise
may boost survival in cancer patients post-treatment
Higher
levels of physical activity may not only prevent the risk of cancers but also
boost survival rates in people who have undergone treatment.
Key Points
1 Research tracked 2,875 colon cancer patients post-treatment
2 Higher exercise levels linked to improved survival rates
3 18 MET-hours/week shows most significant survival benefits
4 Physical activity can reduce mortality disparities
Researchers
from the Louisiana State University in the US focussed on long-term survival
rates in colon cancer survivors. Individuals with colon cancer face higher
rates of premature mortality than people in the general population.
To assess
whether exercise might reduce this disparity, the team analysed data from two
posttreatment trials in patients with stage 3 colon cancer. A total of 2,875
patients self-reported physical activity after cancer surgery and chemotherapy.
For all
participants, physical activity was based on metabolic equivalent (MET) hours
per week. (Health guidelines recommend 150 minutes of moderate-intensity
exercise per week, translating to approximately 8 MET hours/week.)
The findings,
published in the peer-reviewed journal CANCER, showed that patients who were
alive at three years after cancer treatment, and those with less than 3
MET-hours/week had subsequent 3-year overall survival rates. It was 17.1 per
cent lower than the matched general population.
On the
other hand, people with more than 18 MET-hours/week had only 3.5 lower
subsequent 3-year overall survival rates than the matched general population.
Similarly in the second trial, patients who were alive at three years, those with
less than 3 and more than 18 MET-hours/week had subsequent 3-year overall
survival rates that were 10.8 per cent and 4.4 per cent lower than the matched
general population, respectively.
The results
indicate that "higher levels of physical activity may lessen and even
eliminate survival disparities," the researchers said. The study showed
that cancer survivors who were tumour-free by year three and regularly
exercised achieved even better subsequent survival rates.
"This
new information can help patients with colon cancer understand how factors that
they can control -- their physical activity levels -- can have a meaningful
impact on their long-term prognosis," said lead author Justin C. Brown,
from the Pennington Biomedical Research Center and the Louisiana State
University Health Sciences Center.
Lead Poisoning: Avoid alternative treatments without proper guidance, as they can lead to lead poisoning
A shocking medical case in Delhi reveals the hidden dangers of unregulated alternative medicine treatments. Doctors discovered a 65-year-old woman suffering from severe lead poisoning after prolonged use of indigenous medications. Her blood lead levels were an alarming 16 times higher than normal, causing serious health complications. The patient was successfully treated with chelation therapy, demonstrating the critical importance of medical oversight and careful screening of alternative health treatments.
"These
remedies may seem safe, but can contain harmful toxins like lead" - Dr.
Piyush Ranjan, Sir Gangaram Hospital
In a recent
case, doctors at a private hospital in Delhi have identified a rare and
preventable cause of severe abdominal pain and anaemia in a 65-year-old woman,
pointing to lead poisoning from prolonged use of alternative medicines.
Key Points
1 Lead levels 16x higher than normal in elderly patient
2 Alternative medicine poses hidden health risks
3 Chelation therapy successfully treated severe symptoms
4 Comprehensive testing crucial for accurate diagnosis
According
to Dr. Piyush Ranjan, Vice-Chairperson of the Institute of Liver
Gastroenterology & Pancreatico Biliary Sciences at Sir Gangaram Hospital,
emphasized, "This case is a stark reminder of the dangers that unregulated
alternative medicines can pose. While these remedies may seem safe or natural,
they can contain harmful toxins like lead that accumulate in the body over
time, causing severe health issues. Early recognition and intervention are
critical in such cases, and we encourage the public to be cautious when using
alternative treatments that lack proper regulation and quality control."
"The
patient was experiencing abdominal pain for over a month and was admitted with
severe anemia, with a hemoglobin level of just 7 gm/dL. Despite initial
investigations, including ultrasound, CECT abdomen, and endoscopies, no clear
diagnosis was made, leaving the medical team puzzled," stated the
hospital.
"However,
after considering the patient's history of using "alternative
medicines" for bone health, a comprehensive blood lead test and bone
marrow examination were performed. Shockingly, her blood lead levels were found
to be extremely high at 163.5 ug/dL (normal levels are below 10 ug/dL),
confirming the diagnosis of lead poisoning," the hospital further stated.
"The
patient had no history of blood in her stool, weight loss, or use of pain
medications. Despite normal imaging tests, her symptoms of abdominal discomfort
and constipation persisted. It was only when the possibility of lead exposure
was considered that the true cause was revealed," said the hospital
officials further while explaining about the symptoms of patient who come for
the treatment.
Lead
poisoning can occur through the ingestion of contaminated substances, and in
this case, the prolonged intake of indigenous medications led to the buildup of
toxic levels of lead in the patient's system.
The patient
was immediately started on chelation therapy, beginning with British Antimony
Lewisite (BAL) injections and subsequently switched to oral Succimer tablets.
Remarkably, her symptoms improved significantly within just three days.
Over 3 hours of sedentary behaviour may up mental health risks in teenagers: Study
A groundbreaking study reveals the potential mental health dangers of prolonged sedentary behavior in teenagers. Researchers discovered that more than three hours of daily screen time can significantly increase risks of anxiety and depression. Interestingly, not all screen time is harmful, with educational activities showing protective mental health benefits. The study emphasizes the importance of balanced digital engagement and structured screen time for adolescent psychological well-being.
"Most
research focuses on total sitting time, but we can have positive sedentary
activities" - Andre de Oliveira Werneck, University of Sao Paulo
Over 3
hours of sedentary behaviour may up mental health risks in teenagers: Study
Teenagers
and adolescents who spend more than three hours a day engaged in sedentary
behaviours -- which includes playing video games or increased screen exposure
-- have a higher risk of facing mental health issues such as anxiety and
depression, according to a study.
Key Points
1 Excessive screen time linked to psychological distress
2 Video games increase mental health risks by 3% per hour
3 Educational screen time can be protective for adolescents
The study,
published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, showed that adolescents who
spent more than 180 minutes a day on screens for leisure were associated with
greater psychological distress at age 17.
Video games
were particularly influential, with each additional hour associated with a 3
per cent increase in psychological distress. Those who spent more than three
hours a day reading for leisure (especially boys) also reported more
psychological distress.
At the same
time, moderate screen exposure (between 60 and 119 minutes per day) invested in
educational activities, such as doing homework or attending classes, was
considered a "protective" factor associated with less psychological
distress.
"Sedentary
behaviour includes a variety of activities, such as using a computer, watching
television, reading, listening to music, or attending class. Most research
focuses on analysing total sitting time, but we can have positive sedentary
activities, such as attending class and doing homework, for example. And there
are activities that are not beneficial, such as spending too much time on the
Internet or playing video games," explained Andre de Oliveira Werneck,
doctoral student, at the School of Public Health of the University of Sao Paulo
(FSP-USP) in Brazil.
Sedentary
behaviour among adolescents has become a growing problem worldwide. Besides
increasing physical health risks such as obesity and cardiovascular disease, it
can also affect mental health, increasing feelings of anxiety and depression.
To
understand, the team from King's College London in the UK, collected
information from 3,675 adolescents -- when they were 14 years old and then at
the age of 17. At 14, the participants were asked to complete a diary in which
they recorded their general physical activity, time spent sleeping,
recreational screen time, non-screen recreational time, and educational
sedentary behaviour.
At age 17,
the same participants reported their psychological distress.
While
previous research has shown that reading is associated with better mental
health outcomes and other healthy behaviours, the new research suggests that
excessive reading may be harmful in some cases.
Adolescents
who spend many hours reading are "displacing" time that could be
spent on activities with face-to-face or outdoor social interactions, which are
protective, leading to greater isolation, the researchers said. In addition, it
is possible that some of the reading is done on screen devices (cell phones,
computers, or tablets), which is also harmful.
Based on
the findings, the researchers suggested interventions such as setting clear
limits on screen time; and encouraging more educational and structured screen
activities rather than passive recreational screen time.
Celltrion's autoimmune disease treatment gets approval in Europe
Celltrion, a leading South Korean biopharmaceutical company, has received European Commission approval for Avtozma, its innovative biosimilar treatment for autoimmune diseases. The drug can be used to treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and giant cell arteritis in both intravenous and subcutaneous formulations. This approval follows recent FDA authorization and aligns with Celltrion's strategic plan to expand its biosimilar portfolio to 22 products by 2030. The company sees significant market potential, especially given the global ustekinumab market's substantial value of $20.4 billion in 2023.
"The
EC approval on Avtozma marks a critical step in our mission to provide
affordable healthcare solutions" - Ha Tae-hun, Celltrion SVP
Celltrion, a
major South Korean biopharmaceutical firm, on Monday said its new biosimilar
for an autoimmune disease treatment has obtained approval from the European
Commission (EC).
Key Points
1 Avtozma approved for EU market treating rheumatoid arthritis
2 FDA approval secured last month
3 Part of Celltrion's ambitious biosimilar expansion strategy
4 Targets 22 biosimilar products by 2030
The EC
approved Celltrion's Avtozma, a biosimilar to Actemra, in both intravenous and
subcutaneous formulations, for sales in the member countries of the European
Union, the company said, Yonhap news agency reported.
Avtozma can
be used as a treatment for multiple autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid
arthritis and giant cell arteritis.
"The
EC approval on Avtozma marks a critical step in Celltrion's mission to provide
European healthcare systems with affordable, effective solutions for
immunological disorders," Ha Tae-hun, senior vice president in charge of
Celltrion's European operations, said in the release.
Avtozma was
also approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for local sales last
month.
The Korean
drugmaker aims to commercialise 22 biosimilar products by 2030, up from the
current 11. Celltrion had said Avtozma has great sales potential, noting its
original drug, Actemra, raised 2.63 billion Swiss francs ($2.89 billion)
globally in 2023.
Earlier,
the company announced another autoimmune disease treatment by Celltrion has
been launched in five major European nations. The treatment - SteQeyma -- is an
ustekinumab biosimilar treatment for multiple chronic inflammatory diseases.
According
to Celltrion, it was released in France, following its launch in Italy and
Spain in January, Yonhap reported.
The launch
in France follows its release in Britain in December and Germany in November.
In last August, the drug won the European Commission's (EC) approval for
biologic therapy in gastroenterology, dermatology, and rheumatology
indications.
It marked
Celltrion's seventh biosimilar to win the EC's approval, following Remsima,
Truxima, Herzuma, and others.
Celltrion
said it plans to expand sales of SteQeyma in Europe and also introduce the
product in the US in the future.
According
to data from healthcare researcher Iqvia, the European ustekinumab market was
valued at $3.1 billion in 2023, with the global market size reaching $20.4
billion.
https://www.newkerala.com/news/o/celltrions-autoimmune-disease-treatment-gets-approval-europe-212
Breathing can be linked with vision: Study
Scientists at Karolinska Institutet have uncovered a fascinating connection between breathing and vision that challenges previous understanding. Their research reveals that pupil size dynamically changes during breathing cycles, potentially impacting how we perceive visual information. This groundbreaking study introduces a fourth mechanism for pupil size variation, expanding our knowledge of human perception. The findings could have significant implications for understanding cognitive functions and potential clinical applications.
"Our
vision may switch between optimising for distinguishing small details when we
inhale and detecting faint objects when we exhale" - Martin Schaefer,
Karolinska Institutet
Washington
DC, February 23: Researchers have discovered a fundamental mechanism that
affects pupil size: breathing. The study shows that the pupil is smallest
during inhalation and largest during exhalation, which could affect vision.
Key Points
1 Breathing creates fourth known mechanism affecting pupil size
2 Pupil smallest during inhalation and largest during exhalation
3 Study conducted with over 200 participants
4 Research suggests potential clinical applications
Researchers
at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden have discovered a fundamental mechanism. The
study was published in The Journal of Physiology.
Like the
aperture in a camera, the pupil controls how much light reaches the eye.
Therefore, it is fundamental to vision and how we perceive our surroundings.
Over a
century ago, three mechanisms that can change the size of the pupil were known:
the amount of light, focus distance, and cognitive factors such as emotion or
mental effort.
Now,
scientists have discovered a fourth: breathing. The pupil is smallest around
inhalation onset and largest during exhalation.
"This
mechanism is unique in that it is cyclical, ever-present and requires no
external stimulus," explains Artin Arshamian, associate professor at the Department
of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, who led the research.
"Since
breathing affects brain activity and cognitive functions, the discovery may
contribute to a better understanding of how our vision and attention are
regulated."
The researchers
conducted five experiments with over 200 participants, examining how breathing
affects pupil size under different conditions. The results showed that the
effect persisted whether participants breathed quickly or slowly, through their
nose or mouth, if lighting conditions or fixation distance varied if they were
resting or performing visual tasks.
The
difference in pupil size between inhalation and exhalation was large enough to
theoretically affect vision.
The
researchers are now investigating whether changes in pupil size during
breathing also affect vision. Previous research shows that smaller pupils make
it easier to see details, while larger pupils help us find hard-to-see objects.
"Our
results suggest that our vision may switch between optimising for
distinguishing small details when we inhale and detecting faint objects when we
exhale, all within a single breathing cycle," says Martin Schaefer, a
postdoctoral researcher at the same department at Karolinska Institutet and the
study's first author.
There may
also be clinical applications, according to the researchers.
Only 1 hour of daily screen use can up nearsightedness risk: Researchers
A groundbreaking study reveals that just one hour of daily digital screen time can dramatically increase the risk of nearsightedness in children and young adults. Researchers examined data from over 335,000 participants and found a significant correlation between screen exposure and myopia development. The study suggests a potential "safety threshold" of less than one hour of daily screen time to minimize eye health risks. Beyond vision problems, prolonged screen use can also impact cognitive functions and physical health, highlighting the importance of managing digital device usage.
"These findings can offer guidance to clinicians and researchers regarding myopia risk" - JAMA Network Open Study Researchers
Here comes
another warning for those who love to spend hours on digital screens. According
to a new study, spending as little as one hour per day on tablets or
smartphones could significantly increases the risk of myopia or
nearsightedness.
1-hour
digital screen time increases myopia risk by 21%
In the
systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis, a daily 1-hour increment in
digital screen time was associated with 21 per cent higher odds of myopia
(nearsightedness), according to the study published in JAMA Network Open.
The
dose-response pattern exhibited a sigmoidal shape, indicating a potential
safety threshold of less than 1 hour per day of exposure, with an increase in
odds up to 4 hours.
"These
findings can offer guidance to clinicians and researchers regarding myopia
risk," said researchers.
There has
been a surge in nearsightedness cases largely driven by an increased use of
digital screens.
The team
reviewed data from 45 investigations that looked at the association between
screen time and nearsightedness in more than 335,000 participants from toddlers
to young adults.
The
researchers said the risk increased significantly from 1-4 hours of screen time
and then went up more gradually.
However, no
association was found with exposure under 1 hour, suggesting a potential safety
threshold. The authors say these findings can offer guidance to clinicians
addressing the "myopia pandemic."
Recently,
industry experts in India discussed the role of technology and gadgets, which
are some of the biggest dilemmas faced by students, parents and teachers alike,
especially during exams.
Long
periods of screen time can affect the brain's cognitive functions. This is
basically because of the decreased attention span and prolonged screen time,
which often involves sitting in a difficult posture on the bed or couch.
Daily Cannabis use linked to cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome: Study
A new study analyzed the disease burden and risk factors for severity among people who suffer from cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome.
Researchers
at George Washington University said that the condition occurs in people who
are long-term regular consumers of cannabis and causes nausea, uncontrollable
vomiting and excruciating pain in a cyclical pattern that often leads to
repeated trips to the hospital.
"This is one of the first large studies to examine the burden of disease
associated with this cannabis-linked syndrome," says Andrew Meltzer,
professor of emergency medicine at the GW School of Medicine & Health
Sciences and lead author of the study.
"Our findings
suggest that cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome could represent a costly and
largely hidden public health problem." While the exact prevalence of the
condition is unknown, many experts say that the condition is on the rise as the
number of daily or near-daily users of cannabis has increased in the US.
To assess
the burden of disease, Meltzer and his colleagues conducted a survey of 1,052
people who reported suffering from cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. The
researchers asked questions about the frequency of use, duration of the habit,
the age at which they started using the drug, and the need for emergency
department or hospital care.
Key findings of
the study:
85%
reported at least 1 emergency department visit, and 44% reported at least 1
hospitalization associated with the hyperemesis symptoms.
Early age
of cannabis initiation was associated with higher odds of emergency department visits.
Daily use
of cannabis before the onset of the syndrome was nearly universal, with over
40% of respondents reporting they used marijuana more than 5 times a day.
Prolonged
use was common, with 44% reporting regularly using for more than 5 years before
the onset of the syndrome.
Although
this study had some limitations, including self-reported use of cannabis,
Meltzer says it suggests a substantial risk of this painful and costly
condition, especially for users who begin daily use of cannabis as adolescents.
He says more research is needed to understand why some people suffer from the condition after prolonged cannabis exposure, and others do not.
https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/health/daily-cannabis-use-linked-to-cannabinoid-hyperemesis-syndrome-study/
February 20, 2025
WHO's ICD-11 series officially introduces new module dedicated to traditional medicine
The World Health Organization has officially introduced a groundbreaking module in its International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) specifically dedicated to traditional medicine. This landmark development recognizes Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani medical systems as legitimate healthcare approaches with global significance. The new module comprises 529 categories, enabling unprecedented systematic documentation and research into traditional medical practices. By integrating these indigenous healthcare systems, WHO is promoting a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to global health reporting and policy-making.
"By allowing dual coding and improving data collection,
this update fosters evidence-based policymaking" - Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha,
Ayush Ministry Secretary
WHO's ICD-11 series officially introduces new module dedicated
to traditional medicine
The World Health Organization's (WHO) Disease Classification
Series ICD-11 has officially introduced a new module dedicated to traditional
medicine, the Ayush Ministry said on Wednesday.
Key Points
1 WHO releases comprehensive traditional medicine classification
module
2 529 categories document indigenous healthcare practices
3 Enables global research and policy integration
4 Supports holistic healthcare approach
The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) 11th Revision
is the global standard for diagnostic health information. The ICD-11 series had
recognised the traditional medicine (TM2) module in 2024. It was then followed
by successful year-long testing and deliberations for Ayurveda, Siddha, and
Unani systems of medicine.
"The ICD-11 TM 2 module is now officially released on the
ICD-11 Blue Browser of WHO," the Ministry said.
"The introduction of the new module dedicated to
traditional medicine conditions, marks a monumental step in the systematic
tracking and global integration of traditional systems of healthcare practices
related to Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani, alongside conventional medical conditions,"
the Ministry said.
The official release will boost the status of traditional
medicines in global health reporting, research, and policymaking.
The TM2 module comprises 529 categories which revolve around
traditional medicine disorders and patterns. This will enable data collection
and analysis on an unprecedented scale, according to the ministry.
"By allowing dual coding and improving data collection,
this update fosters evidence-based policymaking, enhances patient care, and
supports the inclusion of traditional medicine in national healthcare
strategies, promoting holistic and inclusive healthcare worldwide," said
Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, of the Ministry of Ayush.
"With the new updates, the ICD-11 offers more ease of use,
improved interoperability, and accuracy, which will benefit national health
systems and the people they serve," added Dr. Robert Jakob, Team Leader,
Classifications and Terminologies Unit, WHO.
Traditional medicine has long been an essential component of
healthcare, particularly in Asia, Africa, and other regions where indigenous
practices complement modern medical approaches. Its introduction in ICD-11
aligns with WHO's mission to promote universal health coverage and sustainable
development goals.
It also recognises the therapeutic potential of these systems
alongside contemporary medical treatments.
This will enable the systematic documentation of traditional
medicine practices, said the ministry noting that the WHO has created a
platform for enhancing both the visibility and credibility of Ayurveda, Siddha,
and Unani on the world stage.
1 in 5 newborns with neonatal seizures to develop epilepsy by age one: Study
A groundbreaking study from Denmark has uncovered significant insights into neonatal seizures and their long-term neurological implications. Researchers found that 20% of newborns experiencing seizures will develop epilepsy by age one, with varying risk levels depending on underlying conditions. Brain malformations, perinatal injuries, and low Apgar scores were identified as key risk factors for future epileptic development. Importantly, the study also emphasizes that the majority of neonatal seizure survivors do not ultimately develop epilepsy, offering hope for early intervention and personalized medical care.
"Our study highlights risk factors that may be used to
identify infants for tailored follow-up" - Jeanette Tinggaard, Copenhagen
University Hospital
1 in 5 newborns with neonatal seizures to develop epilepsy by
age one: Study
One in five or 20 per cent of newborns with
neonatal seizures will go on to develop epilepsy by age one, finds a study on
Wednesday.
Key Points
1 Danish researchers analyzed 1,998 children with neonatal
seizures
2 Highest epilepsy risk linked to brain malformations and
perinatal injuries
3 Four out of five neonatal survivors do not develop epilepsy
Seizures in newborns are one of the most frequent acute
neurological conditions among infants admitted to neonatal care units.
Researchers from the Copenhagen University Hospital –
Rigshospitalet in Denmark showed that after neonatal seizures, the risk of
epilepsy is persistently increased throughout adolescence. The team analysed
data on all 1,998 children born in the country who experienced neonatal
seizures.
The results, published in the journal Developmental Medicine
& Child Neurology showed that the cumulative risk of epilepsy was 20.4 per
cent among children with neonatal seizures compared with 1.15 per cent among
children without.
Among these children, epilepsy was diagnosed before 1 year of
age in 11.4 per cent of children with neonatal seizures, in an additional 4.5
per cent between 1 and 5 years, 3.1 per cent between 5 and 10 years, and 1.4
per cent between 10 and 22 years. Stroke, haemorrhage, or structural brain
malformations in newborns, as well as low scores on the Apgar test (Appearance,
Pulse, Grimace, Activity, and Respiration), were associated with the highest
risks of developing epilepsy.
Neonatal seizures are often caused by acute cerebral injury or
stress, such as hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy, stroke, and cerebral
infection, as well as transient and reversible brain alterations of metabolic
or toxic origin; however, congenital brain malformations and genetic disorders
are also recognised causes.
Furthermore, the study showed that the risk of epilepsy after
neonatal seizures was highest among those with cerebral malformation or
perinatal brain injury, although children with perinatal asphyxia (lack of
oxygen) alone also had an increased risk.
In addition, the risk of febrile seizures (convulsions caused by
a fever) was also significantly higher in neonatal survivors with neonatal
seizures, although not to the same extent as the risk for epilepsy.
“Our study highlights that there are risk factors that may be
used to identify infants for tailored follow-up and preventive measures,” said
Jeanette Tinggaard, from the varsity.
“Importantly, four out of five neonatal survivors with a history
of neonatal seizures did not develop epilepsy, and we suggest future studies to
explore a potential genetic predisposition,” Tinggaard added.
https://www.newkerala.com/news/o/newborns-neonatal-seizures-develop-epilepsy-age-one-study-465
Study explains why youth are more vulnerable to nicotine addiction
A groundbreaking study from Pennsylvania State University reveals that young adults are more susceptible to nicotine's harmful effects compared to middle-aged individuals. Researchers discovered that younger subjects experience more intense physiological reactions to the same nicotine doses, potentially increasing their addiction vulnerability. The study highlights the complex interactions between age and chemical responses in the body. These findings could have significant implications for addiction prevention and treatment strategies targeting younger populations.
"People continue to develop and change across their entire
lifespan" - Thomas Gould, Penn State Professor
Study explains why youth are more vulnerable to nicotine
addiction
Young adults are more susceptible to the
impact of nicotine, as their bodies are more sensitive to the dangerous and
highly addictive chemical than middle-aged adults, according to a new study.
Key Points
1 Mice study shows young adults more sensitive to nicotine
2 Nicotine lowers body temperature faster in younger subjects
3 Age significantly impacts chemical response mechanisms
4 Increased addiction risk for youth exposed to nicotine
In a mice study, researchers from the Pennsylvania State
University in the US showed that the effects of drugs on the body -- both
medication and misused substances -- change as per age.
They stressed the need to consider this factor when developing
and prescribing treatments against nicotine. The findings, appearing in the
journal Behavioral Pharmacology, showed that nicotine lowers the body
temperature of young adult mice more quickly and reduces their movement more
significantly than middle-aged mice.
Further, young adult mice -- aged two months – were found to
respond more acutely to a nicotine dose of the same strength relative to their
body size than middle-aged mice -- aged eight months.
These results indicate how the effects of nicotine change as
people age, said the researchers.
"People continue to develop and change across their entire
lifespan, and this affects how our bodies respond to medications and other
chemicals, including nicotine. This research adds one piece to the puzzle of
all the factors -- age, biological sex, genetics, and many others -- needed to
create effective medical treatments and policies for all people," said
Thomas Gould, Professor of Biobehavioral Health and head of Penn State
Department of Biobehavioral Health.
In the study, both young adult and middle-aged study subjects
displayed decreased movement after receiving nicotine, but young adults reduced
their movements more than middle-aged subjects. This indicates that the young
adult subjects experienced the effects of nicotine more intensely, the
researchers said.
The study shows that the younger a person is, the more acute is
the response to nicotine. This has implications both for prevention messages
and for supporting young nicotine users who want to quit.
Increased susceptibility to nicotine may also spike the risk of
developing an addiction that can have serious health implications, said the
team.
https://www.newkerala.com/news/o/study-explains-youth-vulnerable-nicotine-addiction-714
Combination immunotherapy may cure patients with deadly advanced skin cancer
A groundbreaking clinical trial reveals a promising combination immunotherapy that could dramatically improve survival rates for advanced melanoma patients. The seven-year study showed over 50% of patients achieved long-term disease control, a remarkable improvement from the previous 16-week survival expectation. Researchers from the Melanoma Institute Australia are confident this treatment could become the new standard of care for patients with brain metastases. The research, published in Lancet Oncology, offers renewed hope for those facing this deadly form of skin cancer.
"We are now confident these patients are cured, a term not
used lightly in cancer." - Professor Georgina Long, Melanoma Institute
Australia
Combination immunotherapy may cure patients with deadly advanced
skin cancer
A combination immunotherapy may help cure a
majority of patients with melanoma -- a deadly skin cancer -- that has spread
to the brain, revealed a seven-year follow-up results from a clinical trial on
Tuesday.
Key Points
1 Combination immunotherapy achieves 51% long-term survival in
advanced melanoma
2 Brain metastasis patients show significant treatment response
3 Seven-year clinical trial proves breakthrough cancer treatment
strategy
The trial, published today in the journal Lancet Oncology,
showed that more than 50 per cent of patients given combination immunotherapy
as first-line treatment achieved long-term disease control. Currently, patients
with brain metastases -- which account for 30-40 per cent of patients with
Stage 4 melanoma -- only survive for around 16 weeks.
Professor Georgina Long AO, Medical Director of Melanoma
Institute Australia said the combination immunotherapy led to the overall
survival of 48 per cent of patients, which then increased to 51 per cent in
patients given the treatment upfront.
“This proves we have achieved long-term disease control in this
group of advanced melanoma patients,” said Long AO, who is also the lead author
of the study.
“We are now confident these patients are cured, a term not used
lightly in cancer. This combination immunotherapy should now become standard of
care for melanoma patients with brain metastasis,” she said.
The randomised, phase 2 trial conducted between 2014 and 2017,
enrolled 79 patients. Of these 36 were given combination checkpoint inhibitor
immunotherapy (anti-PD-1 plus anti-CTLA-4) and 43 were prescribed single-agent
immunotherapy (nivolumab).
The results, after a follow-up of seven-years, show
progression-free survival rate was 42 per cent with ipilimumab plus nivolumab,
compared to 15 per cent with nivolumab alone. Overall survival was 48 per cent
and 26 per cent respectively.
In patients treated upfront, or as first-line treatment, the
seven-year progression-free survival rate was 47 per cent with the combination
immunotherapy and 14 per cent with the single agent, with overall survival 51
per cent and 29 per cent respectively.
Health Ministry to launch nationwide screening drive for high BP, diabetes, cancer
The Health Ministry is launching a critical nationwide screening program targeting non-communicable diseases. Individuals over 30 can get free health checks for hypertension, diabetes, and various cancers at government facilities. The initiative comes as NCDs increasingly affect younger Indians, with two-thirds of patients aged between 26-59 years. This comprehensive health drive aims to raise awareness and early detection of potentially life-threatening conditions.
"Take charge of your health" - Ministry of Health and
Family Welfare
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
(MoHFW) has announced a nationwide screening drive for non-communicable
diseases (NCDs) like high blood pressure, diabetes and cancer.
Key Points
1 Nationwide free screening for major non-communicable diseases
2 Targeting individuals above 30 years old
3 NCDs account for 66% of mortality in India
4 Screening available at government healthcare facilities
The screening drive will be held from February 20 to March 31.
The Health Ministry called on individuals above 30 years of age, to get
screened for these diseases from the nearest government healthcare facility.
"Take charge of your health -- join the nationwide
screening drive for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) from February 20th to
March 31st, and get screened for free at your nearest government healthcare
facility," said the MoHFW in a post on social media platform X.
"All government health facilities will conduct a nationwide
special screening drive for: hypertension, diabetes, oral, breast and cervical
cancer," it added.
The Ministry also listed the symptoms of diabetes that one
shouldn't ignore in an infographic along with the post. These include "blurred
vision, increased appetite, delayed healing of wounds, fatigue, constant
thirst, sudden weight loss, and frequent urination".
"Don't ignore these symptoms of diabetes!" the
Ministry said.
The screening drive comes even as the country is seeing a
significant rise in the NCDs. According to data from the Indian Council of
Medical Research-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN), NCDs account for
66 per cent of all mortality in the country.
The burden of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic
respiratory diseases, and cancers has also become a significant public health
challenge, particularly among individuals over the age of 30.
Unlike the much-developed Western world, where NCDs typically
manifest later in life, India faces these diseases at a much younger age.
Alarmingly, two-thirds of Indians with NCDs fall within the
26-59 age group, the most productive years of their lives. Most of it is due to
unhealthy diet choices and other lifestyle practices.
A recent study by ICMR-NIN highlights that 56 per cent of the
disease burden is due to an unhealthy diet.
Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address to the
athletes and other delegates at the 38th National Games held in Dehradun
emphasised the importance of a healthy body that is key to a healthy mind,
which in turn could lead to a healthy nation.
Talking about the Fit India Movement, he also spoke about the
importance of exercise and diet, with a focus on balanced intake. Stressing the
importance of reducing unhealthy fat and oil in food, he gave the novel
suggestion of reducing daily oil consumption by 10 per cent.
Study explores role of immune cells in cancer treatment outcomes
A groundbreaking study from University College London has uncovered critical insights into how immune cells impact cancer treatment outcomes. Researchers developed an innovative technique called ImmuneLENS that examines genome sequencing to evaluate immune cell proportions in patients. The research revealed that higher T cell levels in blood are associated with significantly improved survival rates, potentially offering a new diagnostic approach for clinicians. These findings could revolutionize cancer prognosis and treatment strategies by providing more precise predictive markers.
"May be able to predict how long a cancer patient will
survive better than the number of T cells in the tumour alone" - Prof.
Nicholas McGranahan, UCL Cancer Institute
The immune systems of cancer patients may
play a significant role in their treatment outcomes, according to a study on
Tuesday.
Key Points
1 Pioneering ImmuneLENS technique analyzes genome sequencing
data
2 T cell proportion strongly predicts cancer outcomes
3 Male cancer patients show faster immune cell decline
4 Potential early cancer detection through blood immune markers
In the study, researchers at the University College London and
the Francis Crick Institute found that cancer patients with a higher number of
immune cells in their blood have a better survival rate.
They used a pioneering technique -- Immune Lymphocyte Estimation
from Nucleotide Sequencing (ImmuneLENS), which enables researchers to calculate
the proportion of T cells and B cells (types of immune cells) from whole genome
sequencing (WGS) data.
The team analysed over 90,000 WGS samples -- both of healthy
individuals and cancer patients. The findings described in the journal Nature
Genetics showed that cancer patients had a lower proportion of T cells
circulating in the blood compared to healthy individuals.
Further, T cell proportion was found to be a strong predictor of
cancer outcomes, with higher proportions associated with 47 per cent fewer
deaths over five years after surgery.
This effect was still significant when accounting for age,
cancer stage, and across all cancer types -- biological markers which can be
added to current genetic diagnostic tests to help clinicians with more
information on which to base treatment plans, said the researchers.
Professor Nicholas McGranahan, senior author of the study from
UCL Cancer Institute, said while most immune system analysis until now has
focused on the tumour itself, with the new tool, doctors "may be able to
predict how long a cancer patient will survive better than the number of T
cells in the tumour alone".
The study also showed that in people with cancer, particularly
males, the proportion of immune cells in the blood diminishes faster. However,
the reason behind these sexual differences remains unclear.
They also observed that individuals who were seemingly healthy
at the time their sample was taken for sequencing, who subsequently went on to
develop cancer, had below-average levels of B cells in their blood.
This could be because of undiagnosed early-stage cancer, or
pre-cancerous changes to the immune system that could potentially have been an
early sign of disease or even a factor in cancer development.
This information could be used in the future for cancer early
detection or to help clinicians understand how the patient may respond to
treatment, said the researchers.
https://www.newkerala.com/news/o/study-explores-role-immune-cells-cancer-treatment-outcomes-673
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