Health News - Page 16

How the rise of unqualified doctors is affecting Pakistan’s health system

Pakistan has a dubious record of unqualified medical professionals. These so-called doctors operate without registration numbers or even legal authorisation to practise. In most cases, they keep reusing resources and devices that should be thrown out after the first use, risking the people who come to them for treatment

Decades of nuclear tests linked to 4 mn premature deaths globally, report says

From Pacific islands to global fallout, a new report traces how decades of nuclear testing left a silent health crisis that still haunts millions worldwide

Swap screens for real life: All you need to know about the new analogue bag trend

In a world full of digital noise, the analogue bag fashion trend is picking up as an impactful digital detox. It defines how the simplest objects can help us slow down and notice the world around us again.

Abu Dhabi launches new blood test that detects over 70 hard-to-find cancers in early stages

Abu Dhabi has introduced a new blood test that can detect dozens of cancers at an early stage, offering a simpler and less invasive approach to screening and raising hopes for earlier diagnosis and improved treatment outcomes

Doctors say thyroid imbalance may affect fertility but pregnancy remains possible

Thyroid imbalance can affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes in both women and men but experts say early screening, timely treatment and regular monitoring can restore fertility and support safe, healthy pregnancies.

Why strength training is important for women after menopause

Strength training keeps bones and muscles healthy after menopause, when estrogen loss speeds up a reduction in bone density and contributes to the gradual loss of muscle mass. This type of exercise also helps women maintain a healthy weight

Sleeping less than 7 hours daily? You could live a shorter life

Short sleep cycles are no longer an exception. Hectic schedules, long work hours, and screentime addiction mean that most people do not get sufficient sleep. A new study reveals that sleeping less than seven hours regularly reduces your lifespan

Doctor explains: How missed heart warning signs and delayed screening fuel sudden cardiac deaths

India is grappling with a growing heart disease crisis, with lifestyle disorders causing silent and progressive damage to the heart. Firstpost brings expert insights on the importance of early screening, a prevention-first approach and timely care to curb the surge in heart attacks and cardiac deaths.

From digestion to stress: Why immunity, gut health and lifestyle choices matter for long-term cervical health

Cervical health depends on immunity, gut balance and lifestyle choices. Experts explain how holistic practices, stress management and nutrition support immune resilience alongside screening and vaccination to reduce long-term cervical disease risk.

Nipah scare in Bengal: 3 more found infected, nearly 100 quarantined after contact tracing

Of the three new infections, one is a doctor at the same Barasat hospital, while the others are a nurse and a staff member from the Katwa subdivisional hospital who had contact with an already infected female nurse

'Autistic, Bald Barbie make children feel seen': Representation or marketing ploy?

Authentic representation is an ongoing debate around the world. With the release of Autistic Barbie, this debate has found a new angle. While the internet is divided on whether these dolls make children feel seen or is it is just a marketing ploy, Firstpost spoke to Autism specialist, Dr. Sonali Mukherjee to gain insights on the real impact of such initiatives.

'Deadly and unpredictable': Nipah virus isn’t just another fever, experts call for urgent vigilance

Suspected Nipah virus cases have been reported, prompting expert warnings about its high fatality and contagious nature. Doctors advise early detection, isolation, strict hygiene and preventive measures to reduce transmission and complications.

India’s piggery waste poses serious public health risks, study warns

India’s unregulated piggery clusters are reportedly dumping untreated waste, posing serious public health risks including respiratory illnesses, zoonotic diseases and antimicrobial resistance, according to a study.

Can wearables really track brain health? neurologists warn against overpromising gadgets

As AI-powered wearables gain popularity, neurologists explain what these devices can truly measure, why they cannot diagnose brain disorders and how overreliance may cause unnecessary anxiety.

Budget 2026 expectations: Healthcare industry flags insurance gaps, funding needs and Atmanirbhar push

India's healthcare leaders call for structural reforms in Union Budget 2026, focusing on increased GDP allocation, domestic manufacturing incentives and enhanced insurance coverage to reduce out-of-pocket patient expenses.

Havana Syndrome is back in the spotlight: Is it linked to a secret Pentagon device?

Nearly a decade after US diplomats first reported mysterious neurological symptoms, Havana Syndrome is back in the spotlight. The US Defence Department reportedly funded the purchase of a device costing 'eight figures' that emits pulsed radio waves. At least 1,500 suspected cases have been reported across 96 countries since 2016

Nipah in Bengal: Centre forms joint response team for quick containment

According to state government officials, the two patients had recently visited Purba Bardhaman for personal reasons. In response, authorities have launched contact-tracing efforts spanning the districts of North 24 Parganas, Purba Bardhaman, and Nadia

Is health your top priority in 2026? Then keep it simple

Most people make New Year's resolutions to get in shape, eat clean, and hope for clearer skin, but by mid-year, many fail. It may be because the way to the goal is too complicated

A guide to better sleep. Pop into the shower but keep the lights off

We have tried different positions to sleep in. Some have popped pills to snooze better. But what if all you need is a shower with the lights off? That’s what experts are suggesting now

Post-Covid hair fall haunts Indians: Doctors decode the long-term shedding crisis

Post-Covid hair loss caused by telogen effluvium, affecting millions in India. Experts explain the role of stress, nutrition and inflammation, who is at risk and how early medical intervention can restore hair and confidence.

Silent to detect, too late to cure: Glaucoma threatens millions with permanent blindness

Glaucoma, the “silent thief of sight,” affects millions in India yet most cases go undiagnosed. Firstpost shares expert insights on risks, missed detection and how regular check-ups can prevent blindness.

Doctor explains: Symptoms, myths and screening tips to tackle thyroid complications

Thyroid disorders are increasingly common in India but often remain undiagnosed due to subtle symptoms and persistent myths. Firstpost brings expert insights on warning signs, risk factors, screening needs and why early detection is crucial to preventing long-term complications.

29-year-old survives life-saving hybrid cardiac surgery for ruptured thoracoabdominal aorta

Doctors at Fortis Hospital successfully performed a rare hybrid cardiac surgery on a 29-year-old man suffering from a ruptured thoracic abdominal aorta, a condition associated with extremely high mortality in what is claimed to be the first such case in South-East Asia.

Why do heart emergencies go up with rise in pollution in India’s capital city?

The data showed that for every 10-unit increase in the Air Quality Index (AQI), cardiovascular events jumped by 1.8 per cent. The impact of particulate matter was even more pronounced, with admissions increasing by 1.2 per cent for PM10 and 2 per cent for PM2.5 per 10-unit rise

'Eat more protein': How new US dietary guidelines contradict food pyramid

The US has unveiled sweeping new dietary guidelines that prioritise protein, full-fat dairy, and healthy fats while sharply reducing the role of grains and added sugar. The return of a flipped food pyramid reflects the Trump administration’s 'Make America Healthy Again' under Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr

After 17 years of research, India’s homegrown dengue vaccine reaches final trials

After nearly two decades of research, India’s first dengue vaccine, DengiAll, is ready to make its mark. Designed to fight all four virus types, it brings hope to millions at risk from this dangerous tropical disease

China’s AI robot pulls off complex surgery on pig without any human assistance

A Chinese AI-powered surgical robot has successfully performed a complex operation on a pig. Unlike standard robotic procedures controlled by surgeons, the robot independently handled almost the entire operation, including precise bile duct clamping and cutting

Britain bans junk food ads on daytime TV and online to curb child obesity

The UK has enforced a ban on daytime TV and online junk food advertising, aiming to curb childhood obesity. Local authorities have also been given the power to stop fast food shops setting up outside schools.

China: Alibaba’s AI model detecting deadly cancers that doctors fail to spot in tests

An AI system tested in eastern China is helping doctors detect pancreatic cancer before symptoms appear, allowing earlier treatment and improving patients’ chances of survival

Dr explains: How the first oral drug mitapivat could change anaemia treatment in thalassaemia

FDA approval of mitapivat signals a shift in thalassaemia care, offering the first oral option to treat chronic anaemia. Firstpost brings out expert views on its benefits, limitations and access challenges.