Health News - Page 30
Protein in yoghurt and even pizza. But is it actually good for your health?
No matter what your fitness goal is, most fitness instructors and doctors advise you to increase your protein intake. While protein does play an important role in maintaining muscles, we may have gone too far with our love for it. Now, scientists and fitness experts are asking whether we really need it?
Doomscrolling on your phone before bed? It might be stealing your sleep
A new study, published in Frontiers journal, suggests that spending an hour on your phone in bed can increase the risk of insomnia by as much as 63 per cent, and cuts down your sleep time by around by an average of 24 minutes. The study conducted by Norwegian Institute of Public Health surveyed over 45,202 young adults aged 18 to 28 about their screen habits in bed
India lags behind SDG goals on maternal health as World Health Day 2025 puts focus on mothers, infants
In India, maternal and newborn health remains a pressing concern. The National Institute of Health (NIH) estimated that 1.3 million women died from maternal causes over the last two decades.
How long can you go without peeing? US Senator Cory Booker didn't for 25 hours during speech
Democrat Cory Booker made headlines after delivering the longest US Senate speech in history earlier in the week. He revealed his preparation, which included fasting for days and dehydrating himself the night before the D-day to avoid taking a bathroom break. However, urologists warn against holding your pee for too long. Here’s why
Is Russia facing a mystery ‘Covid-like’ virus that makes patients cough up blood?
Multiple reports have surfaced about a mysterious ‘Covid-like’ virus spreading in Russia, causing high fever and, in some cases, even coughing up blood. Local media and social media posts suggest the illness begins with symptoms similar to Covid-19, like fatigue and muscle aches. It is worth noting that Russia’s public health agency, Rospotrebnadzor, has dismissed claims of any outbreak
Why sleeping with a cuddly is good even for adults
A growing number of adults are snuggling up with their favourite stuffed toys at night, not just as a quirky habit, but as a real way to unwind, sleep better, and maybe even feel a little less lonely. But this trend isn’t just about nostalgia. There’s actual science behind why stuffed animals provide comfort, no matter your age. Here's what it is
‘The White Lotus’ has sparked interest in lorazepam. How safe is this anti-anxiety drug?
Everyone’s talking about Hollywood actor Parker Posey and her role as Victoria Ratliff in Season 3 of HBO’s ‘The White Lotus’. But it’s not her performance but her love for the anti-anxiety drug lorazepam that has piqued interest. Through the episodes, she is seen gulping down the medicine like candy. But what is lorazepam?
Love chewing gum? You're probably ingesting microplastic particles, research says
While often marketed as a harmless, chewy sweet, most mass-produced gums, including prominent names like Wrigley, are made using synthetic rubbers and petroleum-based polymers, some of which are also found in products like car tyres
An experimental drug cuts genetic heart disease risk by 94% in trial: What we know
Eli Lilly’s experimental drug, lepodisiran, reduces lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) levels by an average of 93.9 per cent in a mid-stage clinical trial involving 141 patients. Lp(a) is a genetic risk factor for heart attacks, strokes and aortic valve narrowing, affecting 1.4 billion people globally. Unlike LDL cholesterol, Lp(a) cannot be managed through diet or statins, and no approved treatments exist
‘Strawberry nose’ to ‘flat-cake’: Why some illnesses are named after food
Ever wondered why some medical conditions are named after food? Strawberry nose or milky leg syndrome? This is because early physicians and surgeons, who had to rely on basic observation to study the body and understand diseases, used familiar descriptors to explain the appearance of organs and medical conditions
Catching Zzzzs: How a daily nap can do more harm than good
Napping has long been praised as a tool for boosting alertness, enhancing mood, strengthening memory and improving productivity. However, for some, the practice can sabotage nighttime sleep. Therefore, the key lies in understanding how the body regulates sleep and wakefulness
Male infertility in India: How toxic lifestyles, pollution are sabotaging men’s reproductive health
Male infertility affects millions worldwide, with India alone accounting for 27.5 million infertile people. Firstpost talked to experts to understand the causes, treatment options and latest advancements in managing this growing health concern.
Doctor explains: How deadly bipolar disorder is—why it cuts life expectancy by 10 years
Bipolar disorder is not a life sentence but a manageable condition. Experts stress the importance of awareness, early intervention, and tailored treatment to improve outcomes. Firstpost explores the urgent need for early diagnosis, personalised care and societal empathy to combat stigma and support millions living with the disorder.
US reports nearly 500 confirmed cases of measles, Texas worst hit
The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that 97 per cent of the measles cases have been reported in unvaccinated or those people whose vaccination status was unknown
No time to eat? Why having your meals in 20 minutes or less is bad for you
If you regularly have your breakfast, lunch or dinner in less than 20-30 minutes, you are eating too fast. According to experts, when people eat rapidly, they can miss signals from the body that indicate fullness. Doing so over a long time can lead to a range of health problems, including obesity
'Workout Queen' Katie Donnell dies, mother blames energy drinks. Are they bad for the heart?
Katie Donnell, the 28-year-old 'workout queen' from Florida, died following a heart attack, which her family blames on energy drinks. While Donnell led a healthy lifestyle, her mother said she was 'used to the buzz' from the energy drinks and used to consume at least three cans before her twice-a-day sessions. Can the consumption of such beverages lead to heart ailments?
World TB Day: India’s TB decline outpaces global average but high burden remains a concern
World Tuberculosis Day 2025: India accounts for 30% of the global TB burden and 62% of multidrug-resistant cases. Despite a 17.7% reduction in incidence since 2015, achieving the 2025 target remains daunting. Experts advocate for private sector integration, mandatory lab accreditation and community awareness to strengthen TB control
China’s modified virus therapy shows promise in last-stage cancer trials
A new cancer therapy utilising a genetically modified herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) offers hope for late-stage patients, especially those resistant to existing immunotherapies.
India recorded 51 ragging-related deaths in colleges from 2022 to 2024: Report
Based on 3,156 complaints registered at the National Anti-Ragging Helpline from 1,946 colleges, the report identified key trends, high-risk institutions, and the severity of ragging-related cases.
What is the new self-injecting jab that will help avoid pregnancies?
Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed a DIY jab that could soon offer women long-term protection from pregnancy, without the need for daily pills or invasive procedures. While it is yet to be tested in humans, scientists are hopeful about its effectiveness as a contraceptive
UK detects first H5N1 bird flu case in sheep, raising livestock spread fears
The H5N1 virus was detected in a single sheep in Yorkshire, England, during routine testing conducted on a site where avian influenza had previously been identified in birds. No other sheep in the flock tested positive for the virus.
It's getting hot! How much water should you drink in summer?
Staying hydrated in summer isn’t just about guzzling litres of water. Too little can sap your energy, while too much can disrupt your body’s natural balance. So, how much water should you ideally drink? We explain
930 deaths daily: How air pollution, malnutrition and stigma fuel India’s TB surge
India carries a significant share of the global TB burden. According to the WHO Global TB Report 2023, the country recorded 2.8 million new TB cases in 2022, a 13% increase from pre-pandemic levels. An estimated 340,000 Indians die from TB annually, translating to 930 deaths per day.
How blood donations could help provide a lifeline to donors
A new study shows that rolling up your sleeve to give blood might do more than just help others — it could also improve the donor’s health in many ways, including reducing cancer risks and improving insulin sensitivity
Is HCoV-HKU1 a cause for concern or just another seasonal virus?
HCoV-HKU1, which spreads through respiratory droplets, is less severe than SARS or COVID-19. Experts suggested preventive measures like hand hygiene, masking and vaccination can help reduce the risk of infection. While recovery is usually quick, vulnerable groups may experience prolonged symptoms.
7 common summer skin problems and expert tips to prevent them
Summer brings sunshine and outdoor fun, but it also introduces skin issues like sunburn, heat rash, acne and fungal infections due to heat and humidity. Experts recommend using SPF 30 sunscreen, wearing breathable clothing, staying hydrated and avoiding heavy creams. With proper care, you can enjoy the season while keeping your skin healthy and glowing.
Is screen time stealing your vision? Here’s what experts say
The average screen time has steadily increased over the last few years. From recognising early symptoms of digital eye strain to preventive measures and the role of outdoor activities, the experts shared invaluable insights on maintaining healthy vision in a screen-dominated world.
Mounjaro, the injection to fight type-2 diabetes, draws global attention as new weight loss drug
Mounjaro, an injectable medication designed to support weight loss, works by imitating the effects of two natural hormones, GLP-1 and GIP, which help control appetite, blood sugar levels, and digestion
Weight-loss drug Mounjaro in India: Is it better than Ozempic?
US pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly has launched Mounjaro, a diabetes and weight-loss drug, in India. Priced at Rs 3,500 for a 2.5 mg vial, the 'game-changing' medication has debuted in the Indian market as the country tackles high rates of obesity and diabetes. But is Mounjaro a better option than Ozempic?
National Anaemia Day: When should anaemia patients consider a bone marrow transplant?
Anaemia remains a major public health concern in India, affecting women, children and pregnant mothers, leading to severe health complications. Firstpost brings you an expert's view on when a transplant becomes necessary and the risks associated with the procedure