Doctor’s ‘Indians take Dolo 650 like it’s Cadbury Gems’ post goes viral. How this can be harmful – Firstpost

Like Victoria Ratliff of The White Lotus could not stop popping her Lorazepams, Indians have developed an affinity for Dolo-650. India’s go-to medicine for fever and aches is back in the spotlight. Dr Palaniappan Manickam, a US-based gastroenterologist and health educator, drew attention to the widespread use of Dolo-650, a brand of paracetamol. “Indians take…

What is Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, the rare brain condition that killed 2 people in the US? – Firstpost

A total of three cases of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, a rare and incurable brain condition, have been detected in Hood River County of Oregon state over the last eight months. This condition causes the brain to rapidly deteriorate, forming sponge-like holes that lead to severe neurological damage and, ultimately, death read more Two people are believed…

Parkinson’s striking younger Indians—what needs to be done – Firstpost

Once deemed a geriatric disorder, Parkinson’s disease (PD) is now emerging as a growing neurological threat among India’s younger population with early-onset cases escalating at an alarming rate. In the absence of a definitive cure, neurologists are advocating for prompt diagnosis and a comprehensive multidisciplinary management strategy to alleviate symptoms and enhance patients’ quality of…

How Parkinson’s hides in plain sight and why early detection matters – Firstpost

Parkinson’s disease is often mistaken for routine aging—but ignoring early warning signs can delay crucial treatment. For Parkinson’s Awareness Month, Firstpost brings out a doctor’s view on how to decode symptoms, causes and the promise of newer treatments for the disease. read more Parkinson’s disease (PD) often creeps in unnoticed, its early symptoms mistaken for…

What is postpartum preeclampsia? – Firstpost

In the first episode of her new podcast ‘Confessions of a Female Founder’, Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, has revealed that she was diagnosed with a ‘rare and scary’ health condition known as postpartum preeclampsia shortly after giving birth. While the condition only affects four to five per cent of pregnant women, it can result…

Why does the disease come back? – Firstpost

Filmmaker Tahira Kashyap has revealed that her breast cancer has relapsed, seven years after her initial diagnosis in 2018. In a heartfelt post on Instagram, she wrote, “Seven-year itch or the power of regular screening—it’s a perspective. I’d like to go with the latter and suggest the same for everyone who needs to get regular…

Climate change is rewriting India’s public health future – Firstpost

Warming cities, extreme weather and ecological disruption are now directly impacting food security, maternal health and the wellbeing of millions read more Recent weather patterns across India offer compelling evidence that climate change is no longer a looming threat, it is a lived reality. Rising urban temperatures, increased seismic activity and environmental degradation demand not…

India lags behind SDG goals on maternal health as World Health Day 2025 puts focus on mothers, infants – Firstpost

Despite progress in reducing maternal mortality, India continues to face significant challenges in ensuring the well-being of mothers and newborns. Experts stress the need for improved healthcare access, nutritional support, and early screenings to prevent avoidable deaths and complications The latest report by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) on Delhi’s public health…

Does intense heat make people age faster? – Firstpost

A new study suggests prolonged exposure to heat accelerates biological ageing in human beings. These effects are most noticeable in older people because they don’t sweat as much as younger people. The study is significant because heatwaves are becoming more frequent and severe, raising concerns about human health read more Heat not only drains our…

How Eli Lilly’s experimental drug can cut genetic heart disease risk by 94% in trial – Firstpost

A potential breakthrough in cardiovascular medicine has emerged with the development of lepodisiran, an experimental drug by pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly. The drug has demonstrated an unprecedented ability to lower levels of lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), a genetically inherited risk factor for cardiovascular disease. In a mid-stage clinical trial, patients who received either one or two…

How a daily nap can do more harm than good – Firstpost

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 read more You’re in the middle of the afternoon, eyelids heavy, focus slipping. You close…

Why some illnesses are named after food – Firstpost

From watermelon stomach to chocolate cysts, you might wonder why doctors decided to name some ailments after foods – after all, it’s enough to put you off your dinner. When early physicians and surgeons were studying the body to understand normal function or disease, they lacked modern microscopic and molecular imaging and diagnostic techniques. Instead,…

How toxic lifestyles, pollution are sabotaging men’s reproductive health – Firstpost

Male infertility now accounts for 30-40% of conception challenges in India, emerging as a major yet under-discussed public health issue. Driven by modern lifestyle factors, environmental exposures and genetic conditions, the problem affects an estimated 27.5 million people nationwide. Medical experts warn that addressing this challenge requires a three-pronged approach: improved diagnostic tools, timely medical…

How deadly bipolar disorder is—why it cuts life expectancy by 10 years – Firstpost

Bipolar disorder, a leading cause of global disability, disrupts relationships, careers and daily life while shortening lifespans by over a decade. Dr. Sneha Sharma, a consultant psychiatrist and drug de-addiction specialist at Aakash Healthcare, unpacks the complexities of this condition—from recognising manic and depressive episodes to addressing stigma and the critical role of early intervention.…

Is our screen addiction blinding us? – Firstpost

In an era where screen time has become an integral part of daily life, concerns about digital eye health, especially among children, are on the rise. Firstpost spoke to pediatric eye specialists Dr. Varshini Shanker and Dr. Sumedha Sharma from Shroff Eye Centre (Delhi) to understand the impact of prolonged screen exposure and how to…

India recorded 51 ragging-related deaths in colleges from 2022 to 2024: Report – Firstpost

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. read more A new study reveals 51 ragging-related deaths happened across Indian universities and colleges between 2022 and 2024 – a death toll comparable to student suicides in Rajasthan’s…

‘Workout Queen’ Katie Donnell dies at 28, mother blames energy drinks. Are they bad for the heart? – Firstpost

The sudden passing of Katie Donnell, a Florida fitness enthusiast, has reignited concerns about the potential dangers of energy drinks. The 28-year-old “workout queen”, who was dedicated to maintaining a fit and active lifestyle, suffered a fatal heart attack—one that her family believes may have been triggered by her regular consumption of high-caffeine energy drinks.…

China’s modified virus therapy shows promise in last-stage cancer trials – Firstpost

A ground-breaking cancer therapy being tested in China is offering new hope for patients with advanced malignancies, particularly those who have exhausted conventional treatment options. The experimental treatment, HSV-1 VG161, utilises a genetically modified herpes simplex virus to target tumours directly while stimulating the immune system. The therapy was recently tested in a Phase 1…

Is HCoV-HKU1 a cause for concern, or just another seasonal virus? – Firstpost

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. read more Human Coronavirus HKU1 (HCoV-HKU1), first identified in 2004 in Hong Kong, belongs…

Is it better than Ozempic? – Firstpost

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? read more As new…

Mounjaro, the injection to fight type-2 diabetes, draws global attention as new weight loss drug – Firstpost

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 read more Ozempic, the revolutionising weight-loss drug, has a new competition in the name of Mounjaro. Pharmaceutical joint Eli Lilly has introduced an injectable tirzepatide…

Why a women-only approach falls short – Firstpost

While HPV prevention efforts have largely focussed on women, the virus poses significant health risks to men as well emphasising the need for gender-inclusive vaccination strategies to curb its rising impact read more Conversations about the human papillomavirus or HPV, have become increasingly common in the past few years. However, the discussion is often times…

Experts warn of rising kidney disease in India, urge early screening to tackle crisis – Firstpost

As morning sunlight filtered through the windows of a Delhi hospital’s dialysis ward, patients shifted uncomfortably, adjusting the catheters in their arms. The rhythmic hum of machines underscored a stark reality—their lives had been upended. A year ago, many managed businesses, ran households and planned their futures. Now, they spend hours three days a week,…

Can aspirin stop cancer from spreading? – Firstpost

Aspirin, one of the world’s most common over-the-counter painkillers, may have a powerful new role beyond relieving headaches and reducing fevers. Scientists have discovered that this inexpensive drug could help fight cancer. While earlier studies hinted at a link between aspirin use and improved cancer survival rates, a recent study published in Nature journal sheds…

Anorexia kills more than it cures—why is it still ignored? – Firstpost

Anorexia nervosa with its devastating mental, behavioral, and physical symptoms has the highest mortality rate among psychiatric disorders, claiming lives through medical complications like cardiac arrhythmias, organ failure and suicide. Despite its lethality, societal misconceptions, stigma, and the proliferation of harmful online trends continue to fuel this silent epidemic. read more Anorexia nervosa remains one…

Are ultra processed foods bad for you? – Firstpost

US Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr has begun targetting ultra-processed foods. Kennedy Jr has begun the process of eliminating a US Food and Drug Administration program called GRAS or “generally recognised as safe” which critics say has been abused by the food industry for decades. Chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes and…

Is employee burnout draining company profits? – Firstpost

Employee burnout is no longer just a personal struggle — it’s a financial drain that is costing businesses millions. A recent study published in The American Journal of Preventive Medicine estimates that burnout costs the average US company with 1,000 employees approximately $5.04 million annually. This significant expense results from productivity losses, absenteeism and disengagement…

Study that reported microplastics in human brains might have relied on untrustworthy data – Firstpost

The images show particles extracted from postmortem human brain tissue, which were later analysed to identify their chemical composition. The duplications were initially flagged by an anonymous comment on PubPeer, a platform for post-publication peer review read more A well-placed study that was published in Nature Medicine last month used “duplicated images” to report high levels…

Can you observe Ramzan without triggering headaches? – Firstpost

During Ramzan observe spiritual fasting but this practice becomes challenging for migraine patients as dehydration along with lowering of blood sugar levels and withdrawal from caffeine and disturbed sleep patterns read more Muslims throughout Ramzan participate in spiritual fasting however this practice proves difficult for migraine patients because dehydration combined with blood sugar drops and withdrawal from caffeine and interrupted sleep cycles. Strategical planning enables you to practice Ramzaan fasting despite preventing possible headaches.…

How menopause affects heart health—and what women can do to stay healthy – Firstpost

As women around the world celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s crucial to shed light on an often-overlooked aspect of women’s health: the impact of menopause on heart health. Menopause, a natural biological transition, brings hormonal changes in women that can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, according to experts. With heart disease being a leading…

The ‘common’ bacterial vaginosis, may actually be an STI. Here’s what women should know – Firstpost

A common yet potentially serious vaginal infection affecting nearly one in three women worldwide should be recognised as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), according to a new study. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) has long been dismissed as just another women’s health issue, but new research is turning that belief on its head. If confirmed, this could…

Can Vitamin A really treat measles? Why RFK Jr’s claims have US health experts worried – Firstpost

Robert F Kennedy Jr, the US health secretary, has worried medical professionals, pediatricians, and lawmakers following his recent remarks on measles treatment. In response to a growing measles outbreak in Texas, Kennedy wrote an opinion piece for Fox News advocating the benefits of vitamin A and good nutrition — while notably omitting a strong endorsement…

Who was James Harrison? – Firstpost

He was known in Australia as the ‘man with a golden arm’. As per the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, he helped in saving the lives of over 2.4 million Australian babies. James Harrison passed away in his sleep at a nursing home in New South Wales, Australia, on February 17, at the age of 88.…

What are these drugs? – Firstpost

India has banned the manufacture and export of two highly addictive opioids – tapentadol and carisoprodol after an expose found they were fuelling a public health crisis in parts of West Africa. India’s apex drug regulatory authority has asked the drug control authorities of states and Union Territories to withdraw all export NOCs and permission…

Can vaping kill you? – Firstpost

She was just 10 years old when she picked up her first vape. Now, at 12, she lies in a hospital bed, fighting for her life. A young girl from Thailand is the latest victim of vaping—a dangerous habit that is hooking children with colourful packaging, sweet flavours, and the false promise of being “harmless.”…

How safe is this procedure? – Firstpost

YouTube star Nicholas Perry aka Nikocado Avocado, who is known for his extreme Mukbang videos, is no stranger to garnering attention on social media. The 32-year-old shocked his 4.6 million followers on YouTube when he shared his drastic weight loss transformation — he lost 250 pounds (nearly 114 kg). But the transformation didn’t end there.…

Pope Francis has pneumonia in both lungs after ‘polymicrobial infection’. Can this be life-threatening? – Firstpost

Pope Francis has been in hospital since last week. And his health condition is becoming more complex. The Vatican says he has now developed pneumonia in both lungs. This comes after Monday’s announcement that Pope was detected with a “polymicrobial infection” of his respiratory tract. The 88-year-old, who is one of the oldest popes in…

What is ‘polymicrobial respiratory tract infection’? What is next for the Pope? – Firstpost

Pope Francis’ hospitalisation continues as he is being treated with a ‘complex clinical’ condition, says the Vatican. He has been diagnosed with a ‘polymicrobial infection’ of his respiratory tract. What is this illness? read more Vatican authorities said Monday that Pope Francis has a complex infection in his respiratory system and will require more targeted…

How eating from plastic containers can increase the risk of heart failure – Firstpost

A shocking study conducted by Chinese researchers, suggests that regularly eating from plastic takeout containers might significantly increase the risk of congestive heart failure. They found that plastic exposure can disrupt the gut microbiome—the collection of microorganisms that inhabit the human gut—and impact the circulatory system which can lead to heart problems read more Do…

How Ozempic can help reduce alcohol consumption – Firstpost

Ozempic, the popular weight-loss drug, might have an unexpected new use. A recent study has found that it could help reduce alcohol cravings and consumption. Published in JAMA Psychiatry on Wednesday, the research provides the strongest evidence yet that semaglutide—the active ingredient in Ozempic and the weight-loss drug Wegovy—could genuinely help individuals struggling with alcohol…

India screens 146 mn women for breast cancer; health minister says 57,000 diagnosed, 50,000 receiving treatment – Firstpost

The National NCD Portal was rolled out by the government in 2018 under NP-NCD for non communicable diseases (NCDs) screening and management and ensuring continuum of care for five common NCDs, including breast and cervical cancer read more Over 14.6 crore women across the country have been screened for breast cancer and 57,184 were diagnosed…

World Cancer Day | India’s daycare cancer centres: A bold vision but can execution keep pace? – Firstpost

Cancer is more than a medical diagnosis—it’s a deeply personal battle that affects millions. Behind every case lies a unique human story of pain, resilience, healing, and love. This year’s World Cancer Day theme, ‘United by Unique’, emphasises the importance of a people-centered approach, urging us to look beyond the disease. Considering the rising number…

How does this disease spread? – Firstpost

Cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) are on the rise in both Maharashtra and West Bengal, triggering concern among health officials. As of January 29, Maharashtra’s Public Health Department has recorded over 120 cases of this rare immunological nerve disorder. Among them, 20 patients are currently on ventilator support. Meanwhile, in West Bengal, three people— including…

Is it really beneficial? – Firstpost

A debate about cow urine has been reignited after the director of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras endorsed the “medicinal value” of gaumutra. V Kamakoti’s remarks at a recent event invited backlash from several quarters, however, some have jumped in to defend him. Cow urine has often evoked mixed reactions. While proponents claim…

Is it dangerous? – Firstpost

News that actor Saif Ali Khan was stabbed at his Bandra home during an attempted burglary has left many shocked. The incident reportedly occurred around 2.30 am. Khan, who was awoken by suspicious sounds, is said to have been stabbed repeatedly after confronting the assailant. He was brought to Lilavati hospital and is now thought…

Is BMI enough to define obesity? Experts say it’s time for a new approach – Firstpost

Relying solely on BMI to diagnose obesity may be outdated, say global experts. A new report calls for a more comprehensive approach, introducing ‘clinical’ and ‘pre-clinical’ obesity categories based on fat distribution and health impacts. This framework aims to improve diagnosis, reduce stigma, and personalise care for the over one billion people living with obesity worldwide…

How ‘toxic’ semen could kill female mosquitoes and help curb spread of disease – Firstpost

Scientists from Australia have developed a new weapon against battling deadly diseases caused by mosquitoes: genetically engineered mosquitoes with “toxic” semen. While the concept may sound unusual, this groundbreaking technique could revolutionise global public health by reducing the spread of life-threatening illnesses like malaria, Zika, and dengue fever—diseases that claim countless lives every year. “This…

Artificial Intelligence better than doctors in detecting breast and ovarian cancers, find studies – Firstpost

Artificial intelligence has proven to be helpful in identifying more cases of breast and ovarian cancer. Studies conducted in Germany and Sweden have shown that AI models can outperform doctors and medical experts in detecting these cancers. read more Artificial intelligence has proven to be helpful in detecting breast and ovarian cancer and could even…

What is the ‘Quad-demic’ that the US and UK are grappling with? – Firstpost

The US and UK are battling a ‘quad-demic’ as COVID-19, flu, RSV, and norovirus converge, overwhelming healthcare systems. Hospitals face record admissions, with paediatric wards and emergency rooms stretched thin. Experts urge vaccinations, hygiene measures, and vigilance to curb the viral surge read more The term “quad-demic” refers to the simultaneous surge of four major…

Can the HMPV virus in China trigger a health concern for India? – Firstpost

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus causing flu-like symptoms, has sparked concerns following a surge in cases in China. While the virus shares similarities with COVID-19, experts clarify it poses no immediate threat to India. Authorities urge precautionary measures like good hygiene and avoiding contact with sick individuals read more Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory…

Why portion control and packaged food size is important for nutrition and health – Firstpost

In the contemporary Indian context, where dietary habits are evolving amid rapid urbanisation and changing lifestyles, the size of food portions and packaging plays a pivotal role in influencing nutrition intake and overall health outcomes. It is pertinent to keep in mind that non-communicable diseases or health issues are due to factors including genes, environment,…

How much life are you losing? – Firstpost

Every cigarette you smoke costs an average of 20 minutes of your life, according to new research by University College London. With smoking cutting into healthy middle years and reducing life expectancy by a decade, experts urge smokers to quit as the new year approaches read more Smoking remains one of the most significant preventable…

What is ‘holiday heart syndrome’ that is caused by binge drinking? How dangerous is it? – Firstpost

It’s the season for Christmas parties and festive gatherings with family and friends. You may find yourself drinking more than usual, thinking, “it’s the holidays” or “it’s that time of year.” ALSO READ | Do you find yourself sneezing during the holidays? It might be the Christmas tree syndrome However, research indicates that more people…

What is it? – Firstpost

Three years ago, 28-year-old Emily Morton from Australia was living a happy, ordinary life. She had recently married the love of her life, Andy, and the couple was enjoying every moment together. They were even planning to start a family soon. Life seemed perfect. But one day, Morton began experiencing a peculiar, persistent pain in…

Red meat and Diabetes: Should we rethink our plate?

A groundbreaking study published in The Lancet has highlighted an alarming link between red meat consumption and type 2 diabetes, a disease affecting over 462 million people globally. Researchers found that high intake of both unprocessed and processed red meats significantly increased the risk of type 2 diabetes across diverse populations

Journal retracts study that promoted Trump’s ‘miracle drug’ hydroxychloroquine as Covid treatment – Firstpost

In the retraction notice, Elsevier mentioned that its integrity and publishing ethics team, as well as the journal’s co-owner, the International Society of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, found multiple issues with the study read more A controversial study which promoted the use of hydroxychloroquine drug as a treatment for COVID-19 was officially withdrawn from an academic journal.…

How worried should humans be? – Firstpost

The United States has reported its first severe case of bird flu, marking a significant development in the ongoing outbreak of avian influenza. A 65-year-old resident of Louisiana is currently hospitalised in critical condition after exposure to an infected backyard flock. This case has been linked to the H5N1 strain of bird flu and is…

Is flesh-eating bacteria that disfigures body spreading in Australia? – Firstpost

Australians are gripped in fear, as a flesh-eating bacteria known as Buruli ulcer, continues to spread, raising fears of its potential arrival in major cities.Previously considered rare in Australia, the ulcer has previously been reported across multiple regions, including North Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Victoria. However, its recent appearance in the coastal town of…

What is Dinga, Dinga, the excessive body shaking disease leaving people in Uganda sick? – Firstpost

A bizarre and unsettling disease has taken hold in Uganda, leaving hundreds of people, mostly women and children, shaken—literally. Known as ‘Dinga Dinga’,  which translates to “shaking like dancing” in the local dialect, is a mysterious illness that causes uncontrollable body shaking and difficulties in walking. Though it has yet to cause any deaths, the…

Is intermittent fasting bad for your hair? – Firstpost

Intermittent fasting is today one of the biggest trending diets in the world. The time-restricted diet permits individuals to consume the daily calorie intake in eight to twelve hours, with the remainder of the day being spent fasting. Benefits of such diets include weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, and improved diabetes control, according to studies…

Study in Lancet – Firstpost

Bowel cancers are rising among younger persons aged 25-49 as compared to older adults, according to a new study published in Lancet. The findings are notable because cancer has traditionally been associated with advanced age. Therefore, the increasing instances of cancer among younger people is a cause of concern. In their paper titled ‘Colorectal cancer…

Could a pill provide the benefits of yoga? – Firstpost

In today’s information age, anxiety and stress problems are more common than ever. There may soon be a revolutionary pill for those with such disorders that simulates the calmness of a yoga practice. Researchers have made significant progress in understanding how our brains regulate breathing, putting them on the path of creating this fascinating drug.…

First treatment for asthma attack in 50 years. Here’s what you need to know – Firstpost

A major breakthrough in asthma treatment has been achieved through the use of Benralizumab, which researchers are calling a “game-changer.” Benralizumab, the first new treatment for asthma attacks and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in 50 years, was initially approved by US and EU regulators in 2017. It was specifically designed to treat eosinophilic asthma,…

Biden wants to make weight-loss drugs more accessible. Will it pass the Trump test? – Firstpost

Good news awaits millions of Americans suffering from obesity and desperate to shed the kilos. The Biden administration has announced a proposal to require Medicare and Medicaid to cover weight-loss drugs. The Health and Human Services (HHS) Department unveiled the proposal on Tuesday to add anti-obesity drugs like Wegovy, Zepbound, Ozempic and Mounjaro under Medicare…