Is India Winning the War Against Rising Non-Communicable Diseases? The latest health statistics paint a concerning picture: diabetes, heart disease, and cancer rates are climbing, impacting millions across the country. From rural healthcare access to the burgeoning urban health crisis, challenges remain significant. This week, we delve into the crucial initiatives underway – government policies, technological advancements in telemedicine, and the rising role of preventative healthcare – that aim to address this national health emergency. Experts weigh in on the effectiveness of current strategies and the critical need for increased public awareness campaigns targeting lifestyle diseases. Are these efforts enough? Explore Abtak.com's in-depth coverage on healthcare in India and discover the vital information you need to protect your well-being and the future of public health. Stay informed; stay healthy.
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], July 7 (ANI): A government-appointed expert committee in Karnataka has found no evidence linking COVID-19 infection or vaccination to the recent rise in sudden cardiac deaths in the state. In its official report, the panel concluded that the increase in such deaths appears to be multifactorial, with no single cause. It emphasized the need for greater public awareness about rising cardiovascular risks, especially among young adults. 'There is no single cause behind the observed rise in sudden cardiac deaths. Rather, it appears to be a multifactorial issue with behavioural, genetic, and environmental risks,' the report stated. 'While in the immediate post-COVID phase, there is an increase in the incidence of sudden cardiovascular events due to a pro-inflammatory state, this cannot be assumed to be true in the long term (>1 year). It has been three years since the end of the pandemic.' The report added that the investigation by this expert committee, constituted by the Government of Karnataka, highlights a growing public health challenge posed by the rise in sudden cardiovascular events, especially among young adults. The committee noted that conventional risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and smoking were present in a majority of cases. However, 'a significant minority of patients presented with none of these, suggesting the possible involvement of novel or under-recognised mechanisms.' An observational study conducted at Jayadeva Hospital supported the committee's findings. 'The observational study conducted at Jayadeva Hospital did not find any association between premature cardiovascular disease and a prior history of Covid-19 infection or Covid vaccination,' the report stated. It further cited global research, stating that no causal link has been established between COVID-19 vaccines and sudden cardiac events. On the contrary, the report said, 'COVID-19 vaccination has been shown to be protective against cardiac events in the long term.' Earlier, while speaking to ANI, former ICMR DG Dr Balram Bhargava said that there is no link between COVID-19 vaccination and sudden deaths. 'There is no link between COVID-19 vaccination and sudden cardiac death in young people. A recent study by ICMR clearly demonstrates this,' he said. He pointed out that many such deaths involve identifiable risk factors, saying, 'We are hearing more about such deaths in people between 18 and 45. Still, these are associated with identifiable risk factors - over 50% of young individuals who die suddenly are smokers and have a history of binge drinking. Many are diabetics or have high cholesterol levels. Chewing tobacco is also reported in lower and middle strata that causes constriction of arteries, fat deposition and clot formation, which can block coronary arteries and lead to heart attacks.' Another major risk is heavy gymming and the use of unverified substances like steroids, hormones, and herbal supplements for bodybuilding. While going to the gym is good, it's dangerous to start intense workouts while consuming such substances suddenly.' Dr Bhargava also warned against excessive gym workouts combined with unregulated use of steroids, hormones, or herbal supplements. 'My advice to youth, especially around 20-25 years of age, is to know your numbers - weight, blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Take steps to correct them if they are not in range and avoid harmful habits. It's important to remember - many such deaths may have occurred earlier too, but went unnoticed,' he said. NITI Aayog Member (Health) Dr VK Paul reiterated the safety of COVID-19 vaccines, saying, 'Covid vaccines were tested after systematic laboratory studies, animal toxicity studies and clinical studies, and they fulfil scientific and all regulatory and benchmark criteria.' Referring to the ICMR study conducted across 47 hospital sites and published in 2023, Dr Paul said, 'More than 700 young individuals who suffered sudden deaths were included... What emerged was that the Covid vaccine was actually protective against sudden deaths, decreasing its risk... What was responsible for sudden death was - if the individual had a genetic tendency due to a family history of heart ailments, if one had suffered a more severe COVID-19 illness that required hospitalisation, smoking, and those who had consumed excess alcohol.' He added, 'Let's not be prey to unfounded notions.' Speaking with ANI, former AIIMS Delhi Director, Dr Randeep Guleria, said, 'There are reports of young people dying because of sudden cardiac arrests. There have been studies to look into this cause. If you look at studies from ICMR and AIIMS, they have clearly shown that these young deaths are not related to COVID-19 vaccines. COVID-19 vaccines do have some side effects, and all vaccines/drugs have some side effects, but the link between COVID-19 vaccination and heart attacks is not there. None of the studies have shown that...' Dr Saumitra Rawat, Chairperson, Institute of Surgical Gastroenterology, GI and HPB Onco-Surgery, and Liver Transplantation at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, also emphasised the same. 'ICMR has done studies on the link between COVID-19 and sudden deaths, but there is no evidence to suggest that COVID-19 vaccination is linked to sudden cardiac death in young individuals. In fact, ICMR did a large-scale study in 2023, which found that the vaccine actually offered protection against such deaths. Sudden cardiac events in the 18-45 age group are often associated with identifiable risk factors such as a history of severe COVID-19, binge drinking, smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, or sudden intense physical activity, especially when combined with unregulated supplements like steroids or hormones. Chewing tobacco, common in lower-income groups, also increases the risk by narrowing arteries and promoting clot formation,' he said. 'My message to the youth is clear: know your health numbers, avoid harmful habits, and make informed choices. COVID-19 vaccines are safe and protective; the real focus should be on addressing lifestyle risks,' he added. (ANI)
People often think doing cardio will interfere with gaining muscle, so they only do strength training. This misses out on the balance that's key for health and fitness. When done right, cardio builds endurance and strengthens your heart. It helps you perform better and recover faster, which means you can actually grow muscle more effectively as part of a balanced fitness routine. The belief that cardio "eats away" at your muscles is a persistent myth that doesn't hold up to science. In reality, research shows that moderate cardio benefits strength training. It boosts heart health and enduranc ...Read More >
OCCRP had published news articles against Adani; BJP MP Sambit Patra calls Rahul 'traitor of highest order' After a hiatus of two days, the Winter Session of Parliament plunged into chaos again Thursday, this time due to the ruling BJP targeting Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi and the Congress, accusing them of being part of a plan to "derail" India's economy and "disrupt" its democracy. Senior BJP MP Nishikant Dubey raised the matter in the Lok Sabha, alleging that a "dangerous triangle" ...Read More >
Khordha (Odisha): A severe cold wave gripped northern Odisha on Sunday, with the Mayurbhanj in the northern part of the State bearing the brunt of the intense chill with Ramatirtha area in the district recording as low as -10 degrees Celsius. According to the Forest Department, temperatures while other areas such as Gurguria and Barehipani recorded 6 degrees Celsius, Chahala 4 degrees Celsius, Nawana -5 degrees Celsius, and Upper Baraha Kamuda (UBK) -3 degrees Celsius. Statement Of IMD Scientist Dr Soma Sen Roy On Saturday, IMD scientist Dr Soma Sen Roy said that the cold wave will last for ...Read More >
Khordha (Odisha) [India], December 15 (ANI): A severe cold wave gripped northern Odisha on Sunday, with the Mayurbhanj in the northern part of the State bearing the brunt of the intense chill with Ramatirtha area in the district recording as low as -10 degrees Celsius. According to the Forest Department, temperatures while other areas such as Gurguria and Barehipani recorded 6 degrees Celsius, Chahala 4 degrees Celsius, Nawana -5 degrees Celsius, and Upper Baraha Kamuda (UBK) -3 degrees Celsius. Also Read | CAT 2024 Results: IIM Calcutta Likely To Release CAT 2024 Results Today at iimcat.ac. ...Read More >
Guwahati, Jun 5 (PTI) The Assam Congress on Thursday demanded a CBI inquiry into alleged illegal stone mining in Karbi Anglong district in violation of a Supreme Court order. Addressing a press conference here, former Rajya Sabha member Ripun Bora also alleged that Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council Chief Executive Member Tuliram Ronghang was allowing illegal activities in the district in nexus with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. "Large-scale illegal stone mining is taking place in the hills of Karbi Anglong in violation of the Supreme Court order. The SC had banned mining in and around K ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], June 6 (ANI): In a move to uphold animal welfare and maintain public hygiene, the Delhi Government has issued a strict advisory against the illegal killing and sacrifice of cows, calves, camels, and other prohibited animals during the Bakra-Eid on June 7, a release said. The advisory issued by the Delhi Government outlines strict guidelines to ensure lawful and hygienic practices during Bakra Eid. Also Read | Chinnaswamy Stampede: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Suspends Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayananda, Orders Arrest of Representative of RCB and Others After FIR. It m ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], June 6 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday reaffirmed India's commitment to fighting terrorism, stating that India stands firm and resolute in its collective fight against this threat in the backdrop of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed optimism about strengthening ties with Central Asia, following the 4th India-Central Asia Dialogue and posted on X, 'Delighted to meet with the Foreign Ministers of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. India deeply che ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], June 7 (ANI): The Central government has raised financial limits under the General Financial Rules (GFRs) for procurement of scientific equipment and consumables. The simplification of GFRs will reduce delays and enhance autonomy and flexibility for the research organisations. Under the new rules, the Finance Ministry said that Vice Chancelors, Dierectors and academic institutions under specified departments and ministries will be able to make non-Government e-Marketplace (GeM) procurement of scientific equipment and consumables. As per the notification of the Finance Min ...Read More >
Hong Kong, December 3, (ANI): Mainland Chinese shoppers are once again flocking to stores in Hong Kong, but this time, their focus is on purchasing sanitary towels and other feminine care products, rather than infant formula, cooking oil, or Yakult drinks. This shift in shopping habits is driven by concerns over reports of contaminated and discoloured cotton fillings in similar products sold in mainland China. These safety issues have led many consumers to seek alternatives in Hong Kong, where the quality is perceived to be more reliable, Radio Free Asia reported. A shopper from Guangzhou, i ...Read More >
Hong Kong: Mainland Chinese shoppers are once again flocking to stores in Hong Kong, but this time, their focus is on purchasing sanitary towels and other feminine care products, rather than infant formula, cooking oil, or Yakult drinks. This shift in shopping habits is driven by concerns over reports of contaminated and discoloured cotton fillings in similar products sold in mainland China. These safety issues have led many consumers to seek alternatives in Hong Kong, where the quality is perceived to be more reliable, Radio Free Asia reported. A shopper from Guangzhou, interviewed by Radio ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], January 13 (ANI): Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw criticised Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and called him "factually incorrect" over his remark that most incumbent governments, including India in 2024 elections, lost post-COVID. He added that the people of India have reaffirmed their trust in the NDA led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "As the world's largest democracy, India conducted the 2024 elections with over 640 million voters. People of India reaffirmed their trust in the ND led by PM @narendramodi Ji's leadership. Mr. Zuckerberg's claim that most incumbent governments, ...Read More >
Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh) [India], May 22 (ANI): Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and YSRCP president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday launched a scathing attack on the current TDP-led government in the State, accusing Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu of failing to deliver on pre-election promises and engaging in financial mismanagement. The former chief minister also took aim at what he called the "yellow media" for biased reporting in favour of the ruling party. "I am not only fighting against Chandrababu Naidu but also against the 'yellow media'," Reddy said in a press conference. ...Read More >
Mumbai: On Thursday, the city added 34 new Covid-19 cases, taking the total since May to 569. There have been four Covid-19-linked deaths in the city since, and three more in MMR. All had pre-existing health conditions.In all, the state reported 98 Covid-19 cases on the same day. There were four in Thane, two in Kalyan, one in Vasai-Virar, four in Pune district, 10 in Pune city, one each in Satara, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district and Nagpur, and three in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation. Health officials said all those diagnosed on Thursday are mild cases. Since cases began t ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], June 7 (ANI): The Central government has raised financial limits under the General Financial Rules (GFRs) for procurement of scientific equipment and consumables. The simplification of GFRs will reduce delays and enhance autonomy and flexibility for the research organisations. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi To Visit Odisha on June 20 To Attend BJP Govt's First Anniversary Function, Says State Minister Suresh Pujari. Under the new rules, the Finance Ministry said that Vice Chancelors, Dierectors and academic institutions under specified departments and ministries will be abl ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], December 5 (ANI): Jitender Singh Shunty, a Social activist and Padma Shri awardee joined Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the presence of the Party's National Convener Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday. Jitender Singh Shunty is also the founder of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Sewa Dal (SBS) Foundation. Upon officially joining the party, Kejriwal expressed his admiration for Jitender Singh Shunty's significant contributions to society during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlighted Shunty's dedication and efforts in supporting those in need and commended his commitment to ...Read More >
Rajouri: State Health Department teams are continuing door-to-door surveillance in Badhal village as the mystery illness in Rajouri district in Jammu and Kashmir continues to claim lives. This after an 'unidentified' disease has claimed 16 reported fatalities and 38 affected individuals According to reports, NCDC (National Centre for Disease Control), ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) teams have been deployed for investigation as 16 deaths have been reported in Budhal village since December 2024 due to a 'mysterious illness.' Dilmir Choudhary, ADC Kotranka said, "Since December, we h ...Read More >
Haridwar: A woman politician has been arrested for allegedly letting her boyfriend and others repeatedly rape her 13-year-old daughter in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. The horrifying crime, which occurred between January and March, was exposed when the minor bravely confided in her father, prompting a police investigation that led to the arrest of the accused. The accused was arrested with her boyfriend and one more. According to police reports, the minor was gang-raped multiple times, often in the presence of her mother. The minor, who had been living with her father following her parents' separat ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], June 6 (ANI): In a move to uphold animal welfare and maintain public hygiene, the Delhi Government has issued a strict advisory against the illegal killing and sacrifice of cows, calves, camels, and other prohibited animals during the Bakra-Eid on June 7, a release said. The advisory issued by the Delhi Government outlines strict guidelines to ensure lawful and hygienic practices during Bakra Eid. It mandates that all sacrificial rituals must occur exclusively at designated locations, explicitly prohibiting sacrifices on roadsides, streets, or any public spaces. It emphas ...Read More >
BHUBANESWAR: The School and Mass Education (SME) department is keeping a close watch on the Covid situation and will follow appropriate precautions as per the advisory of the Health and Family Welfare department, once the schools reopen. Informing this on Thursday, SME minister Nityananda Gond asked citizens to remain alert in view of the rising Covid-19 cases. "The government is giving top priority to the health and safety of all," he said, asking people not to panic. The minister further informed that teachers and students would be sensitised on Covid-19 and asked to properly follow precau ...Read More >
Patna (Bihar) [India] June 6 (ANI): Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi attended the 'Samvidhan Sabha' in Rajgir, Nalanda, on Friday. Addressing the gathering, Gandhi emphasised the need for a caste census and criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's stance on the issue. He questioned PM Modi's claim of being an OBC while asserting that the BJP denies the existence of caste in India, emphasising the need for a genuine caste census. 'Narendra Modi used to say in every speech, I am OBC. Then, on the caste census, they say that there is no caste in India. If there is ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], June 6 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday reaffirmed India's commitment to fighting terrorism, stating that India stands firm and resolute in its collective fight against this threat in the backdrop of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed optimism about strengthening ties with Central Asia, following the 4th India-Central Asia Dialogue and posted on X, "Delighted to meet with the Foreign Ministers of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. India deeply che ...Read More >
PRNewswire Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], December 13: Star Health and Allied Insurance Company Limited, the first standalone health insurance company in India, today announced the launch of its revolutionary retail health insurance product, 'SUPER STAR'. This innovative policy offers a long-term policy for the retail health segment, combining advanced features and highly customisable covers to address the growing complexities of modern lifestyles, rising medical expenses, and unforeseen emergencies. * Offers a long-term policy and unparalleled, highly customisable solutions for evolving heal ...Read More >
New Delhi, May 29 (PTI) A genetic study has traced a 2023 outbreak of a neurological infection in Tamil Nadu to contaminated saline water used at a dental clinic, findings of which were published in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia journal. Twenty-one probable cases of neuromelioidosis -- a neurological infection caused by bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei -- between July 2022 and April 2023 were identified across four districts in the northern part of the state. Seventeen of the 21 cases came from a single district, of which 10 reported undertaking treatment at a dental clinic. T ...Read More >
Ahmedabad: More than half of the total Covid-positive cases in Gujarat -- over 700 identified so far -- were recorded in the 25 to 50 years age group, or the 'working age group', state health department officials have said. About 10% of the cases were among infants under one year of age, according to govt data. Officials also said that the number of senior citizens in recent cases is relatively very low. Health experts pointed out that three patients who died of Covid -- all from Ahmedabad -- were women aged 18, 20 and 47 years. "No definite pattern is emerging yet, as cases are under control ...Read More >
NEW DELHI: Former head of Air India and chairman of the Railway Board Ashwani Lohani is the new Prime Ministers Museum and Library (PMML) director. The official order for his appointment was issued on Wednesday. A 1980-batch officer of the Indian Railway Service of Mechanical Engineering (IRSME), Lohani is known for turning around various organisations during his illustrious career. Following his retirement from IRSME service, he joined the GMR Group as the CEO. According to the order dated June 4, his appointment to the post of director, Prime Ministers Museum and Library in the rank and pa ...Read More >
Guwahati: In a major scientific achievement on public health front, research scholars at the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati have developed an innovative, low-cost method to detect SARS-CoV-2 -- the virus responsible for COVID-19 -- using nothing more than a type of clay and saltwater. This innovative mechanism, which uses sedimentation to determine the presence and quantity of the virus, offers a simpler and more affordable alternative to current diagnostic methods such as PCR and antigen testing. The study, recently published in the peer-reviewed journal Applied Clay Science, could ...Read More >
Srinagar, June 7: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, on Saturday, congratulated the University of Kashmir for getting an A++ grade in the NAAC inspection. The Lt Governor extended his heartiest congratulations to the Vice Chancellor, faculty, staff, and students of the University of Kashmir for attaining the prestigious A++ Grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), and securing an outstanding Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.68 on a seven-point scale. Calling it a proud moment for J&K UT, the Lt Governor said, "The A++ Grade places the Un ...Read More >
Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], June 7 (ANI): Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel on Saturday noted that the state is fully prepared for COVID-19, with all arrangements including beds, ventilators, and ICU facilities in place, adding that the current Omicron variant is not very serious and does not seem to cause significant harm or death. Speaking to reporters, Minister Rushikesh Patel said, 'This Omicron virus is a virus of the Covid family, but it is not so serious. Varieties of this virus do not seem to cause any harm or death. But we have made all our arrangements, all beds, ventilators, ...Read More >
Bengaluru: The Karnataka government on Thursday took strong action against the police officers allegedly responsible for the Bengaluru stampede, suspending several high-ranking officials, including the city's police commissioner. Addressing a press conference, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also announced a one-man commission to probe the lapses that triggered the deadly stampede. "Cubbon Park Police Station police inspector, station house master, station house officer, ACP, Central Division DCP, cricket stadium in-charge, additional commissioner of police, commissioner of police have been susp ...Read More >
Gurgaon: A chemist and a lab operator have been arrested for allegedly selling medical termination of pregnancy (MTP) kits illegally. Two separate FIRs were lodged against the accused at Sector 10 and Sector 9A police stations, police said on Friday.The pharmacy was sealed and medical officials have initiated proceedings to cancel its licence. District drugs control officer Suresh Verma said the department received information about illegal sales of MTP kits - also called abortion kits - from Juneja Chemist, located near Civil Hospital. A pregnant woman, who was deployed as a decoy customer, v ...Read More >