News Analysis India

Tag: health

  • AI Can Give Psychological First Aid, Curb Mental Health Burden In India: Expert |

    New Delhi: Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be an effective tool in providing psychological first aid, which may help curb the rising burden of mental health issues in India, said Samir Parikh, Consultant Psychiatrist and Chairperson, Fortis Healthcare on Wednesday.

    Speaking to IANS, the mental health expert noted that AI may not only boost cost-effective care but also reach the masses, as niche experts are fewer in this sector. “The prevalence of mental illnesses and mental health concerns are very high. But the number of experts in the domain is very low. And these experts are also disproportionately distributed,” Samir said.

    He noted that the number of experts dwindles, beyond metro cities, in Tier – III, and IV, and even further while moving towards district, and rural levels. According to the latest data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, about 60 to 70 million people in India have been reported to suffer from common and severe mental disorders.

    “India’s mental health burden is estimated at $2-3 billion with about one in every eight people estimated to be suffering from a mental health disorder in some form. Hence, mental wellness solutions are pertinent, especially in a society like India where mental health is deeply stigmatised leading to lack of awareness,” said Samir while launching ‘Adayu Mindfulness’– a dedicated vertical for comprehensive mental health care at Fortis, in collaboration with United We Care and Adayu.

    “I do believe that digital India and AI interventions are the way forward for a country like ours, as well as for a large part of the developing world where we need to ensure that cost-effective and highest outreach is needed for mental health care, given the fact that experts are less,” he added.

    But when it comes to mental health, is AI on par with humans?

    “AI is not substituting clinical expertise, rather it is supporting,” Samir said, noting that AI can help in screening and help understand whether a person must see a psychologist or a psychiatrist.
    “There are some people who will have distress, some will require a bit of assistance and help, but not expert intervention in terms of therapy. This help could be about self-correction, basic guidance, some self-help, some do-it-yourself, some educator videos or content, but given by reliable sources, which also come from a clinically evidence-based background.

    “So psychological first aid can be given. AI can listen, give some education, help people understand what to do, provide lifestyle-related support, thought-related support which means helping with positive thinking affirmations, among others,” said the doctor.

    At the same time, it can also screen the patients and rule out the presence of a condition that requires an expert intervention. “So AI can help in psychological therapy, guidance and it can also help in the continuity of treatment and compliance as well as overall relapse management.”

    “Available 24/7 in a scientific evidence-based manual, and under the supervision of experts, AI is not about substituting or being at par with human support, rather it will work as an adjunct as a support system,” the doctor said.

  • What Is The Right Age To Let Children Use Social Media? Check 3-Step Parenting Guide In Digital Age | Parenting News

    We live in a world dominated by screens, and the mantra for survival is consumption without overindulgence. However, striking the right balance may not be as easy as it seems, especially in the case of children. Here is where the role of parents becomes immensely important. Parents need to help their children navigate the tremulous landscape of social media without getting lost in its dangerous twists and turns.

    “The internet, while a powerful tool for information and connectivity, has been implicated in contributing to anxiety among children. One prominent factor is the pervasive influence of social media. Kids are exposed to curated versions of others’ lives, fostering unrealistic standards and a constant sense of comparison. Cyberbullying on these platforms further adds to the stress, creating an environment where online interactions can be a source of anxiety,” shares Dr Munia Bhattacharya, Consultant Psychologist with Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurgaon.

    Risks and Benefits of a Social Media Presence

    The dangers extend to severe body image issues, threats to the sense of identity, the risk of physical harm, a distraction from life goals, and, contrary to popular belief, isolation. All of these can cause significant psychological damage, which may be difficult to come back from.

    On the other hand, social media can enhance your child’s learning by extending and sharing school lessons. It’s a platform for exploring hobbies, fostering creativity, and improving mental health through connections with family and friends.

    Mr Sandeep Kumar, Founder and Managing Director – Baatu Technologies further emphasizes, “At this juncture, the most important question seems to be, ‘What is age-appropriate exposure and how can it help mitigate the mentioned ill effects?’ Unfortunately, there is no right answer to this. It depends on the maturity level and cognitive abilities of the child. However, the general rule of thumb is that it is only after the age of 13 that children should be allowed on social media. Even then, parents need to monitor their children and be a part of their virtual lives.”

    Tips for Parents For Navigating Social Media In Kids’ Lives

    Set clear boundaries

    When it comes to parenting in the digital age, the number one decree is to set clear boundaries and parameters of usage in terms of the hours of use, banned sites, and the kind of content that can be accessed. Announcing mandates, however, may do more harm than good. A better way of going about this would be to talk to your child about your concerns and come up with these limits together.

    mindful monitoring

    The second step is to ensure that the rules that you have come up with are being followed. The best way to do this is to be in regular communication with your child about their social media presence. Along with this, gadgets that allow parents to monitor virtual activity are very helpful. Such devices enable carers to stay abreast of any challenges that their wards may be facing and help them deal with them effectively.

    Leading by example

    Highlighting your own mistakes and their consequences is also helpful, as that would help them see you as fallible humans who are making an effort to improve their lives. It would also enable them to look more kindly at their mistakes and give them the courage to start again with the rules in mind.

  • From Blocks To Brains: Impact Of Toys On Kid's Brain Development, Experts Share Facts | Parenting News

    Kids and cognitive development go hand in hand, with early childhood being a crucial period for laying the foundation. Cognitive development refers to how children think, explore, and figure things out. It involves skills like memory, problem-solving, attention, and language. The first three years of a child's life are crucial, shaping their cognitive, emotional, and social capacities.

    This period lays the foundation for lifelong learning and development. Educational toys play a pivotal role in this formative stage, aiding in holistic brain development and unlocking children's potential.

    Impact of Toys on Child Development

    According to Renu Gupta, a Psychologist at MindMatters, “Toys have a profound impact on unlocking a child's potential. Each toy becomes a key, unlocking doors to creativity, imagination, and cognitive growth. By selecting toys that stimulate various senses and encourage exploration, we can guide children on a journey of discovery, paving the way for optimal brain development and lifelong learning.”

    Enhancing Cognitive Abilities Through Play

    As children grow older, their cognitive abilities become more complex. They learn to think abstractly, solve problems creatively, and understand others' perspectives. Cognitive development is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, and experiences.

    “Toys such as puzzles, brainteasers, and construction sets are instrumental in encouraging analytical thinking, problem-solving, and logical reasoning. They help children deconstruct complex issues, establish connections, and explore innovative solutions. Memory games, matching exercises, and sequencing toys also play a crucial role in strengthening their ability to retain information”, adds Devanshi Kejriwal, Co-founder & CPO, Skillmatics.

    Developing Spatial Reasoning and Creativity

    Mr Devanshi highlights, “Manipulatives, sorters, and stackers enrich children's spatial reasoning abilities, aiding in the comprehension and manipulation of spatial concepts. These toys help cultivate visualization prowess and a deeper understanding of concepts such as symmetry and proportions. Additionally, art and craft kits empower children to explore alternative approaches and nurture their creativity.

    Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in supporting children's cognitive development. Providing opportunities for play, exploration, and learning can help children develop essential cognitive skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.

  • Hair Superfoods: 7 Lesser-Known Foods For Gorgeous And Stronger Locks | Beauty/Fashion News

    Haircare is a crucial aspect of maintaining healthy and luscious locks. From choosing the right products to adopting a suitable routine, proper care can prevent hair loss and promote regrowth. Incorporating vitamins like biotin and minerals such as zinc can strengthen hair follicles and stimulate growth. Regular scalp massages and avoiding heat styling can also improve circulation and reduce breakage. Also, staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in proteins and omega-3 fatty acids are vital for nourishing hair follicles.

    According to Dr Shailendra Chaubey, Head of Ayurveda at Traya, “Hair loss is a common concern for many individuals, and while there are various factors contributing to this issue, diet plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy hair. In Indian culture and cuisine, “Several lesser-known food items offer potent benefits for combating hair loss and promoting hair growth.”

    “Their holistic approach not only addresses the symptoms but also targets the underlying causes, reflecting the profound wisdom embedded in Indian culinary traditions towards achieving optimal hair health.”

    7 Food Items That Contribute To Better Hair Health

    With these simple yet effective practices as suggested by Dr Shailendra, one could possibly achieve voluminous and vibrant hair:

    1. Cow's Ghee, a staple in Indian cooking, is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, essential for nourishing the scalp and strengthening hair follicles. Its abundance of vitamins A, D, E, and K further supports overall hair health, making it a valuable addition to one's diet.

    2. Kulthi Dal, also known as Horse Gram, and Mung Dal, are nutrient-dense pulses prevalent in Indian cuisine. Packed with protein, iron, and antioxidants, these dals fortify hair strands, reduce hair breakage, and stimulate hair growth, addressing key factors contributing to hair loss.

    3. Moringa offers a plethora of nutrients, including vitamins C and E, which promote collagen production and combat free radicals that damage hair follicles. Amchur, derived from dried unripe mangoes, provides a rich source of vitamin C, essential for maintaining scalp health and preventing hair loss.

    4. Amla, or Indian Gooseberry, is a powerhouse of vitamin C and antioxidants. Its regular consumption strengthens hair follicles, prevents premature graying, and stimulates hair growth, making it a potent remedy for hair loss.

    5. Sesame seeds are packed with protein, iron, and vitamins crucial for maintaining healthy hair. They prevent hair breakage, nourish the scalp, and promote hair growth, offering an effective solution to combat hair loss.

    6. Amchur is made from dried unripe mangoes and is commonly used as a souring agent in Indian cooking. It is rich in vitamin C and iron which aids in collagen production and strengthens hair follicles.

    7. Fenugreek seeds are often used in Indian cooking as well as in hair care remedies. They are rich in protein, iron, and vitamins A, K, and C, which help prevent hair breakage, promote hair growth, and maintain overall hair health.

  • Technology And Kids: 5 Lesser-Known Ways Screen Time Impacts Children’s Eating Habits | Parenting News

    In today’s digital age, screens have become an inseparable part of children’s lives, from smartphones to tablets to televisions. While the effects of excessive screen time on children’s physical health and cognitive development are widely discussed, the impact on their eating habits often goes unnoticed.

    How Does Screen Time Impact Children’s Eating Habits

    Excessive screen time poses multifaceted challenges to children’s eating habits and overall health. Mrs. Tanya Mehra, Child Nutritionist, “Firstly, prolonged screen exposure can disrupt natural eating patterns by diverting attention away from hunger cues, potentially leading to irregular eating habits and overeating. Secondly, screen time can influence children’s food preferences, as research suggests that exposure to Advertisements for unhealthy foods can promote a preference for sugary, salty, and fatty snacks.”

    “Furthermore, excessive screen time often replaces more active forms of play and social interaction, which are essential for developing a healthy relationship with food. Additionally, the blue light emitted from screens can interfere with children’s sleep patterns, impacting their appetite and food choices. Understanding these effects is crucial for parents and caregivers, as it can help them make informed decisions about managing screen time and promoting healthier eating behaviors in children.”

    5 Lesser Known Impact of Screen Time on Eating Habits

    Beyond the obvious association between screen time and snacking, Mrs. Sonal Katyal, Mom Blogger & Parenting Expert shares more subtler ways in which screens influence what and how children eat. Here are five such lesser-known impacts:

    Mindless Eating:

    When children are engrossed in screen-based activities, they tend to eat mindlessly. As a result, they are more likely to overeat without realizing it. Due to overeating, their hunger regulation gets disrupted and they don’t feel hungry for the next meal soon enough and again parents end up in distraction feeding.

    Food and Advertising:

    Screens bombard children with advertisements for unhealthy foods, promoting sugary snacks, fast food, and sugary drinks. These ads create powerful cravings and preferences for unhealthy foods, influencing children’s food choices and preferences.

    Disrupted Mealtime Routine:

    Excessive screen time disrupts regular mealtime routines, leading to irregular eating patterns. Children may skip meals or eat at irregular times when they are glued to screens, leading to poor dietary habits and nutritional imbalances.

    Emotional Eating:

    Screens often serve as a source of comfort or distraction for children when they are bored, stressed, or upset. This emotional connection with screens can lead to emotional eating, where children seek solace in food while engaged in screen activities.

    Influence of Screen Time on Parental Feeding Practices:

    Parents’ own screen habits can indirectly influence children’s eating behaviors. When parents are preoccupied with screens, they may be less attentive to their children’s nutritional needs and mealtime behaviors.

  • India gets UN award for hypertension control

    By Express News Service

    NEW DELHI:  India on Wednesday won a UN award for its Hypertension Control Initiative. The initiave is a large-scale intervention under the National Health Mission (NHM).

    Announcing the achievement, the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr Mansukh Mandaviya tweeted, “India wins an @UN award for “India Hypertension Control Initiative (IHCI)” – a large scale hypertension intervention within existing primary healthcare system under National Health Mission. IHCI has strengthened PM @NarendraModi Ji’s mission to ensure health & wellness for all.”

    The ‘2022 UN Interagency Task Force, and WHO Special Programme on Primary Health Care Award’ was announced at the UN General Assembly side event in New York. The award comes at a time when the WHO has estimated that one in every four adults in India suffers from hypertension and only 12 per cent of these adults have hypertension under control. Under the initiative, 3.4 million hypertensive people were identified and put on treatment at various government health facilities. 

    IHCI is a multi-partner initiative of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), WHO Country Office for India and Resolve to Save Lives (Technical partner).Hypertension or uncontrolled blood pressure is one of the risk factors for cardiovascular-related diseases such as stroke, heart attack, etc. Cardiovascular deaths are responsible for one-third of the total deaths in India. 

    “Hypertension kills more adults than any other cause. Treatment of people with a high-risk of CVD is one of the best buys recommended by the WHO and scaling hypertension treatment and control can save millions of lives in the next decade,” according to Roderico H. Ofrin, WHO Representative to India.

    NEW DELHI:  India on Wednesday won a UN award for its Hypertension Control Initiative. The initiave is a large-scale intervention under the National Health Mission (NHM).

    Announcing the achievement, the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr Mansukh Mandaviya tweeted, “India wins an @UN award for “India Hypertension Control Initiative (IHCI)” – a large scale hypertension intervention within existing primary healthcare system under National Health Mission. IHCI has strengthened PM @NarendraModi Ji’s mission to ensure health & wellness for all.”

    The ‘2022 UN Interagency Task Force, and WHO Special Programme on Primary Health Care Award’ was announced at the UN General Assembly side event in New York. The award comes at a time when the WHO has estimated that one in every four adults in India suffers from hypertension and only 12 per cent of these adults have hypertension under control. Under the initiative, 3.4 million hypertensive people were identified and put on treatment at various government health facilities. 

    IHCI is a multi-partner initiative of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), WHO Country Office for India and Resolve to Save Lives (Technical partner).
    Hypertension or uncontrolled blood pressure is one of the risk factors for cardiovascular-related diseases such as stroke, heart attack, etc. Cardiovascular deaths are responsible for one-third of the total deaths in India. 

    “Hypertension kills more adults than any other cause. Treatment of people with a high-risk of CVD is one of the best buys recommended by the WHO and scaling hypertension treatment and control can save millions of lives in the next decade,” according to Roderico H. Ofrin, WHO Representative to India.

  • Cigarette and other tobacco product packs will get a new warning from Dec 1

    Express News Service

    NEW DELHI: All tobacco products manufactured, imported, or packaged before December 1 must display a new image with the textual health warning “tobacco causes painful death”, the Union Health Ministry said Friday.

    The ministry said the government had notified new sets of specified health warnings for all tobacco product packs by amending the Cigarettes and other Tobacco Products (Packaging and Labelling) Rules, 2008 on July 21, 2022, which will be applicable from December 1, 2022.

    The ministry released two images – both displaying a man with substantial cancerous growth on his mouth due to tobacco use – and two textual warnings.

    While the first one, which will be displayed from December 1, 2022, will have the warning ‘Tobacco causes painful death’. This will be valid for one year.

    The second image and warning – tobacco users due younger – will be displayed in all tobacco products manufactured, imported, or packaged on or after December 1, 2023.

    “Any person engaged directly or indirectly in the manufacture, production, supply, import or distribution of cigarettes or any tobacco products shall ensure that all tobacco product packages shall have the specified health warnings exactly as prescribed,” the health ministry said in a statement.

    “Violation of the provision mentioned above is a punishable offence with imprisonment or fine as prescribed in Section 20 of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003,” it added.

    The ministry said that the notification along with the soft or printable version of the specified health warnings in 19 languages will be available on the official websites —www.mohfw.gov.in and ntcp.nhp.gov.in.

    Violation of the guidelines is a punishable offence with imprisonment or fine as prescribed in Section 20 of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003, the government said.

    Tobacco-related cancers constitute the highest-burden among all types of diseases in India. As many as 27 per cent of cancer cases were caused due to tobacco consumption, according to a new report released by the National Cancer Registry of India (NCRI) on August 18, 2020.

    NEW DELHI: All tobacco products manufactured, imported, or packaged before December 1 must display a new image with the textual health warning “tobacco causes painful death”, the Union Health Ministry said Friday.

    The ministry said the government had notified new sets of specified health warnings for all tobacco product packs by amending the Cigarettes and other Tobacco Products (Packaging and Labelling) Rules, 2008 on July 21, 2022, which will be applicable from December 1, 2022.

    The ministry released two images – both displaying a man with substantial cancerous growth on his mouth due to tobacco use – and two textual warnings.

    While the first one, which will be displayed from December 1, 2022, will have the warning ‘Tobacco causes painful death’. This will be valid for one year.

    The second image and warning – tobacco users due younger – will be displayed in all tobacco products manufactured, imported, or packaged on or after December 1, 2023.

    “Any person engaged directly or indirectly in the manufacture, production, supply, import or distribution of cigarettes or any tobacco products shall ensure that all tobacco product packages shall have the specified health warnings exactly as prescribed,” the health ministry said in a statement.

    “Violation of the provision mentioned above is a punishable offence with imprisonment or fine as prescribed in Section 20 of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003,” it added.

    The ministry said that the notification along with the soft or printable version of the specified health warnings in 19 languages will be available on the official websites —www.mohfw.gov.in and ntcp.nhp.gov.in.

    Violation of the guidelines is a punishable offence with imprisonment or fine as prescribed in Section 20 of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003, the government said.

    Tobacco-related cancers constitute the highest-burden among all types of diseases in India. As many as 27 per cent of cancer cases were caused due to tobacco consumption, according to a new report released by the National Cancer Registry of India (NCRI) on August 18, 2020.

  • PM Narendra Modi enquires about Lalu Prasad Yadav’s health

    By PTI

    PATNA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday enquired about the health of RJD supremo and former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, who fractured his right shoulder after suffering a fall at his house in Patna on Sunday.

    According to a statement issued by Chitaranjan Gagan, RJD spokesperson (Bihar), here on Tuesday, “The PM spoke to Tejashwi Yadav on Tuesday and enquired about the health of the RJD supremo. The PM wished speedy recovery to RJD chief.”

    The former Bihar chief minister fell down the stairs of his house at 10 Circular Road in Patna on Sunday and had to be rushed to a city hospital.

    The condition of the 74-year-old RJD chief is stated to be stable.

    “Lalu Yadav is undergoing treatment and is being monitored by multiple doctors,” said a senior RJD leader.

  • Post-Covid mental health cases increased, says expert

    By Express News Service

    NEW DELHI: India has over 10 percent psychiatric disorders but post-Covid the ‘hidden cases’ have come up, which need urgent counselling and help, without them being stigmatised.

    These ‘hidden cases’ should be diagnosed and treated, said Dr Nimesh Desai, senior consultant in psychiatry and former Director Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS) at an interaction at Indian Women’s Press Corps (IWPC) on Saturday.

    Citing data, he said 25 percent of psychiatric disorders are reported globally, as compared to 50 percent in the US alone. India reports 10-12 percent of psychiatric disorders.

    “There is no denying that the three Covid waves were traumatic for people, especially the second wave when distress, sadness and anxiety levels increased. However, the rest of the two years of the pandemic, people were able to deal with their problems,” he said.

    He said the Tele Mental Health Programme, announced during the union budget 2022-23 to support people who have been facing deteriorating mental health, especially amid the pandemic, is a good move and would be able to address the needs of the masses regarding mental health issues.

    What goes in India’s favour is the strong family support, he added.

    “People should not get scared of post-Covid compilations. One should not connect mental health issues with Covid alone,” he said.

    One can identify if they are having mental health problems if they find their sleep patterns disturbed, along with daily life being affected. “These people should go for counselling and further diagnosis and treatment,” he added.

  • Closely following Covid trajectory globally: Government

    By PTI

    NEW DELHI: Noting that various mathematical models meant for predicting coronavirus waves have repeatedly failed to give reliable results due to a small sample size, the Centre on Tuesday said it is closely following the virus trajectory globally, given the emergence of its new variants.

    In a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Health Bharati Pravin Pawar further said the network of Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) of laboratories is undertaking whole genome sequencing of samples for a timely detection of the mutant variants of the virus.

    On whether researches at the Indian institutes of technology (IITs) have predicted a fourth wave of the pandemic in the country between June and August, she said the IIT Kanpur has clarified that it has not forecast a fourth wave of COVID-19.

    It is an independent study conducted by a team of researchers from the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at the institute that has prepared a mathematical model and submitted the same to a pre-print server for experts to comment. The same is not peer-reviewed, Pawar said.

    Modelling studies are based on a certain set of inputs either based on real-world scenarios or approximations of those inputs that are not available (which may vary in accuracy according to the technique used), she stated.

    “Often these studies involve taking a relatively small actual sample and extrapolating the result to the entire population. While this may achieve near accurate results for a small homogenous country or region, such techniques have failed repeatedly to give reliable results for a large, diverse population,” the minister said.

    “Given the emergence of variants of COVID-19 virus with variable transmissibility and other public health implications, Union Ministry of Health is closely following COVID-19 trajectory globally and in the country, along with various expert committees,” she added.

    Listing the preparatory steps, Pawar said the ministry provides the requisite technical and financial support to the states and Union territories to enhance preparedness and response capacities against Covid and other public health emergencies.

    Funding support has been provided to the states for health system strengthening to meet any exigency due to a resurgence of cases in the country through the National Health Mission (NHM), the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and Emergency COVID-19 Response and Preparedness packages.

    Regular review meetings are undertaken with all the relevant stakeholders, including subject experts and the states, to review the preparedness and response measures to address the pandemic, following the five-fold strategy of test-tack-treat-vaccinate and adherence to COVID-appropriate behaviour, the minister said.