About 75 per cent of consumers and 97 per cent of primary care providers (PCPs) in India are ready to embrace artificial intelligence (AI)-powered healthcare solutions for tasks such as disease prediction, risk assessment, and diagnosis, a new report said on Thursday. The report by, ZS -- a leading management consulting and technology solutions firm -- showed how India is on the brink of a healthcare transformation, driven by unprecedented levels of trust in AI. It highlights that over 60 per cent of Indians are open to adopting virtual care models for services ranging from routine consultations to chronic disease management -- marking a pivotal shift toward digital-first healthcare. Further, more than 63 per cent of Indians show a strong interest in using AI-powered health apps for various healthcare needs including awareness, triage, and adherence. The report also stressed challenges and barriers such as accessibility; increasing pressure on healthcare systems due to ageing populations; overburdened providers and workforce shortages; infrastructure gaps and fragmented care delivery. Regulatory frameworks for data privacy and ethical AI usage also raise significant concerns. “There is a substantial opportunity for healthcare providers and technology companies to capitalise on the high digital health adoption rate. Leveraging data, AI, and technology can transform healthcare by closing care gaps, enhancing patient empowerment, and enabling healthcare providers to deliver flexible care models,” said the report. It recommended stakeholders collaborate to create integrated solutions that align with consumer preferences and relieve strained healthcare systems. The report surveyed more than 12,000 consumers and 1,500 healthcare professionals across India, the US, the UK, China, Brazil, and Japan to reveal critical insights into the current market challenges and future opportunities shaping the global healthcare landscape. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
07 March,2025 01:03 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSA common type of diabetes medication may help cancer patients ward off the risk of heart failure by 50 per cent and boost long-term recovery, according to new research on Thursday. Heart failure is common among cancer patients, and can lead to a reduced quality of life, multiple admissions to hospital, or even death. It is caused both due to the deadly disease as well as because of chemotherapy -- the first line of cancer treatment. Researchers from the University of East Anglia in the UK showed that a type of diabetes medication -- an SGLT2 inhibitor -- may help protect the heart during and after cancer treatment. The study, published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, showed SGLT2 inhibitors can lower the risk of heart failure and unplanned hospital visits related to heart failure by more than 50 per cent. The benefits were found to be particularly promising for breast cancer patients receiving a common chemotherapy type called anthracycline chemotherapy, which can affect heart health, said the team. "Chemotherapy has played an instrumental role in improving patient outcomes. But up to 20 per cent of cancer patients who have had chemotherapy go on to develop heart problems, with up to 10 per cent having heart failure,” said lead researcher Prof Vassilios Vassiliou, from the University. "We know that SGLT2 inhibitors are recognised for their cardiovascular benefits. They can improve the symptoms of heart failure such as breathlessness and tiredness, and also reduce people's risk of becoming frail," Vassiliou added. To see whether SGLT2 inhibitors could help protect the heart during and after cancer treatment, the team analysed 13 studies with a total of 88,273 cancer patients and survivors. The team found that hospital admissions for heart failure were reduced by half. The number of new heart failure cases appeared to fall by more than two-thirds (71 per cent), suggesting these pills might help protect the heart during and after cancer treatment. However, the researchers noted that more research is needed to confirm the findings.
07 March,2025 10:09 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSMakhana, a popular snacking option and a staple in Indian pantries for decades, has been in the spotlight in recent times, being hailed as a superfood due to its health benefits. During Budget 2025 session, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the formation of a special ‘Makhana Board’ in Bihar. Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also revealed in a rally that he consumes makhana 300 days in a year. Given the rising demand for this global superfood, which is also referred to as fox nut or lotus seed, and an increased focus on its cultivation in India, Amreen Sheikh, Head Dietician, Fortis Hospital, Mulund, reveals why it should be a part of your diet. “Makhana is often considered a superfood because of its rich nutritional profile. It is naturally gluten-free, low in calories, and high in protein, fibre and essential micronutrients like calcium, magnesium and iron,” she informs. Health benefits of makhana From weight management to supporting bone health, makhana can contribute in one’s well-being in several ways. Sheikh reveals the following health benefits of fox nuts: Weight management: Being low in calories and high in fibre, makhana can make one feel satiated for longer. Heart health: They are low in cholesterol, fat and sodium, that makes them heart-friendly. Bone health: The calcium and magnesium content in makhanas helps strengthen bones. Diabetes-friendly: With a low glycemic index, makhana helps regulate blood sugar levels when taken in moderation. Rich in anti-oxidants: The presence of flavonoids helps in reducing oxidative stress, delaying aging and improving immunity. How much makhana should one consume? While makhana offers various benefits, it should be consumed in moderation. “A moderate intake of 25-30 grams (approximately one small bowl) per day is generally safe and beneficial,” says Sheikh. “While makhana is a healthy snack, consuming it in excess (more than 100 grams per day) may lead to digestive issues as excess fibre may cause bloating, constipation or flatulence,” she further warns. Also Read: Want to know how turmeric can improve your health? Experts share some lesser-known benefits of the spice
06 March,2025 01:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIsraeli researchers have discovered a surprising immune defense role of the proteasome, a cellular structure known for degrading and recycling proteins. The study, published in Nature, could inspire new strategies against antibiotic-resistant infections, Xinhua news agency reported. The study, led by the team from Weizmann Institute of Science (WIS), found that when breaking down old proteins, the proteasome constantly and regularly releases antimicrobial peptides, Xinhua news agency reported. These antimicrobial peptides are considered vital components of the body's first line of defense as they attack and kill bacteria. Experiments showed that human cells with active proteasomes effectively controlled bacterial growth, while blocking proteasome activity allowed infections to spread, WIS said. In infected mice, proteasome-produced peptides reduced bacteria numbers, decreased tissue damage, and even improved survival rates, performing as effectively as strong antibiotics in clinical use. The team identified over 270,000 potential antibacterial peptides hidden within 92 per cent of human proteins. “This peptide database opens a new frontier for developing personalized treatments against infections and other medical conditions,” said Prof. Yifat Merbl’s lab at WIS. The findings may open a new frontier for developing tailored therapies to strengthen immune defenses in high-risk patients, such as those with cancer or weakened immune systems. Beyond the clinical implications, the team said the greatest thrill was discovering a fundamental cellular mechanism that is regulated by the proteasome and is different from anything previously known. “This study highlights how technological innovation and basic research intertwine in unforeseen ways. Without the technology that allowed us to analyse the cellular trash, we would not have made this discovery, but when we developed this technology, we never imagined that we would uncover a new immune mechanism,” Merbl said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
06 March,2025 01:04 PM IST | Jerusalem | IANSLong-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medications may decrease the risk of developing dementia, claimed a study on Wednesday. Previous research has suggested that inflammation may contribute to the development and progression of dementia. The NSAID medications, with their anti-inflammatory effects, can help protect against dementia -- which affects more than 55 million people worldwide. “Our study provides evidence on possible preventive effects of anti-inflammatory medication against the dementia process,” said M. Arfan Ikram, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, in the Netherlands. The researchers focussed their study on 11,745 adults with an average follow-up of 14.5 years. Of these 9,520 participants had used NSAIDs at any given time, and 2,091 participants developed dementia. The results, published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, showed that long-term NSAID use was associated with a 12 per cent reduced risk of developing dementia. Short- and intermediate-term use did not provide benefits. Also, the cumulative dose of NSAIDs was not associated with decreased dementia risk, the team said. The findings suggest that prolonged, rather than intensive, use of anti-inflammatory medications may help protect against dementia. “There is a need for more studies to further consolidate this evidence and possibly develop preventive strategies,” Ikram said. A recent study published in the journal Alzheimer’s and Dementia: Translational Research & Clinical Interventions, that looked at health data from over 130 million individuals showed that antibiotics, antivirals, vaccinations, and anti-inflammatory medication are associated with reduced risk of dementia. This finding supports the hypothesis that common dementias may be triggered by viral or bacterial infections. According to data from the World Health Organization, every year, there are nearly 10 million new cases of dementia -- currently the seventh leading cause of death and one of the major causes of disability and dependency among older people globally. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia and may contribute to 60-70 per cent of cases. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
06 March,2025 10:21 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSThe global number of cases of osteoarthritis, as well as the disability associated with the condition, have risen by more than 130 per cent over the past three decades among women who have gone through menopause, according to a study. Deterioration and damage of joint cartilage lead to osteoarthritis. It is followed by bony remodelling, joint dysfunction, and chronic pain. In 2020 alone, an estimated 595 million people worldwide were living with the condition, comprising nearly 8 per cent of the world’s population, with postmenopausal women at heightened risk. In 2021 there were 14,258,581 new cases of osteoarthritis; 278,568,950 existing cases; and 99,447,16 years of healthy life lost (DALYs), representing increases of 133 per cent, 140 per cent, and 142 per cent since 1990, respectively, showed the study, published in the open access journal BMJ Global Health. One reason is that menopause leads to a decline in female hormones oestrogen levels, said a team of researchers from China. The lack of oestrogen affects skeletal health and also impacts the function and stability of the joint system, they explained. Excess weight accounted for 20 per cent of the total years lived with the resulting disability. “The burden of [osteoarthritis] among postmenopausal women continues to escalate, highlighting its significant impact on [their] global health,” said the researchers from the Hangzhou Medical College and Zhejiang University in China. “There is an urgent need for proactive measures to rigorously monitor and manage risk factors, with a particular emphasis on promoting lifestyle adjustments aimed at controlling BMI. Additionally, policies should be implemented that take into account socio-demographic disparities, to effectively alleviate the burden of [osteoarthritis] in postmenopausal women,” they added. To better understand the global impact of osteoarthritis in postmenopausal women, the researchers drew on The Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 study. They analysed data from 204 countries and territories between 1990 and 2021 for new and existing cases of knee, hip, hand, and ‘other’ osteoarthritis and years of healthy life lost (DALYs) among postmenopausal women, aged 55 and above. Osteoarthritis of the knee was the most common type and associated with the highest loss of healthy years of life (1264.48/100,000 people), followed by that of the hand and ‘other’. Osteoarthritis of the hip was the least common and associated with the lowest rates of DALYs. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
05 March,2025 12:09 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSA plastic spoon’s worth of plastic is inside your brain, researchers warned on Tuesday, showing alarming new evidence about microplastic accumulation in human brain tissue. Published in the journal Brain Medicine, the research revealed that human brains contain approximately a spoon's worth of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs), with levels 3-5 times higher in individuals with documented dementia diagnoses. More concerning still, brain tissues showed 7-30 times higher concentrations of MNPs compared to other organs like the liver or kidney. "The dramatic increase in brain microplastic concentrations over just eight years, from 2016 to 2024, is particularly alarming," said Dr Nicholas Fabiano from the University of Ottawa's Department of Psychiatry and lead author of the commentary. "This rise mirrors the exponential increase we're seeing in environmental microplastic levels,” he mentioned. Of particular concern are particles smaller than 200 nanometers, predominantly composed of polyethylene, which show notable deposition in cerebrovascular walls and immune cells. This size allows them to potentially cross the blood-brain barrier, raising questions about their role in neurological conditions. The commentary said that switching from bottled to filtered tap water alone could reduce microplastic intake from 90,000 to 4,000 particles per year. "Bottled water alone can expose people to nearly as many microplastic particles annually as all ingested and inhaled sources combined," said Dr Brandon Luu, an Internal Medicine Resident at the University of Toronto. Switching to tap water could reduce this exposure by almost 90 per cent, making it one of the simplest ways to cut down on microplastic intake. Other significant sources include plastic tea bags, which can release millions of micro and nano-sized particles per brewing session. Heating food in plastic containers — especially in the microwave — can release substantial amounts of microplastics and nanoplastics, said researchers. "Avoiding plastic food storage and using glass or stainless-steel alternatives is a small but meaningful step in limiting exposure. While these changes make sense, we still need research to confirm whether lowering intake leads to reduced accumulation in human tissues,” said Dr Luu. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
04 March,2025 10:26 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSLeg, ankle and foot swelling is often considered common and dismissed as nothing serious, citing its causes to be sitting too long, standing too long, eating a salty dinner, etc. However, persistent or increasingly serious swelling, which doctors refer to as ‘edema’, may warn of a serious issue such as kidney disease. Dr Manas Ranjan Pradhan, Senior Consultant, Urologist, Manipal Hospital, Bhubaneshwar, explains, “The kidneys are essential to maintain the fluid balance in the body through filtration of waste and excess fluid from the blood. As kidney function falls, the body is unable to expel this excess fluid, and it accumulates in tissues—most commonly in the lower limbs. This causes evident swelling, which is most prominent around the ankles and feet.” Signs to look out for Not all swelling signifies kidney disease, but certain symptoms and characteristics may be alarming. Dr Pradhan shares the following warning signs to look out for: Worsening or unrelenting swelling: Swelling that does not subside or gets worse on resting, or after changes in diet or lifestyle, might indicate kidney disease. Swelling around the eyes: Fluid build-up can be seen as face swelling, most commonly around the eyes -- one of the earliest signs of kidney disease. Foamy or coloured urine: A distortion of urine colour may be associated with kidney-related swelling, signifying protein loss (proteinuria), a signature of kidney injury. Fatigue and shortness of breath: Swelling can spread to the lungs, and there may be shortness of breath and tiredness. “A variety of kidney conditions can cause fluid retention, including chronic kidney disease and acute kidney injury,” informs Dr Pradhan. When to see a doctor It is essential to be aware of signs and seek timely medical attention when required. “If you have ongoing swelling, particularly if it is accompanied by other signs such as changes in urination, tiredness or breathlessness, it is important to get medical assessment. Early detection of kidney disease can avoid further complications and enhance outcomes,” the doctor explains. Prevention and management Although treatment options vary with the cause, changes in lifestyle can assist in managing fluid build-up and subsequent swelling. Dr Pradhan shares the following tips: Decrease salt consumption: Excess sodium may lead to fluid build-up, aggravating swelling. Stay hydrated: Adequate hydration maintains kidney function and avoids fluid imbalances. Monitor blood pressure and blood sugar: Hypertension and diabetes are major causes of kidney disease. Exercise regularly: Exercise improves circulation and avoids fluid accumulation in the lower limbs. Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Kindly consult a qualified medical expert for personalised guidance.
04 March,2025 02:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPeople with obstructive sleep apnoea have an increased risk of suffering from Parkinson's disease, according to a study. Obstructive sleep apnoea is when throat muscles relax during sleep, blocking the airway, causing a person to wake up repeatedly to breathe. This disrupted sleep pattern can lower oxygen levels, affecting the brain. Researchers from the VA Portland Health Care System in Oregon, US looked at rates of Parkinson's disease five years after a sleep apnoea diagnosis. They reviewed more than 20 years of medical records to identify nearly 1.6 million older adults who had obstructive sleep apnoea. After adjusting for age, sex, and health factors such as smoking, they found among people with sleep apnoea, there were 1.8 more cases of Parkinson's disease per 1,000 people compared to people without sleep apnoea. Parkinson's is a chronic and progressive neurodegenerative disease. Sleep disorders are one of the most common non-motor symptoms in Parkinson's patients. Notably, the study showed that using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) may help reduce the risk. With CPAP, pressurised air is delivered through a mask to keep the airway open while a person sleeps. The study found using CPAP within two years of a sleep apnoea diagnosis reduced the risk of Parkinson's -- 2.3 fewer cases per 1,000 people when compared to people who did not use CPAP. "Obstructive sleep apnoea is common, and previous research has found that when untreated, it is associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke," said Gregory D. Scott, of the VA Institute. "While our study found an increased risk of Parkinson's disease, the good news is people can do something about it by using CPAP as soon as they are diagnosed with the sleep disorder," he added. The findings will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology's 77th Annual Meeting scheduled to take place from April 5-9 in San Diego, US. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
03 March,2025 03:23 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSGaining popularity for its sustainability, and impressive health benefits, pea protein has emerged as a nutritional powerhouse. Pea protein is also known for its digestibility, and being a complete plant-based protein source that supports muscle growth, recovery, and overall well-being. To delve deeper into its nutritional profile, comparative benefits, and suggested daily intake, Edwina Raj, head of services, clinical nutrition and dietetics at Aster CMI hospital, Bangalore, and Samriddha Dasgupta Sarkar, clinical nutritionist consulting on Practo, answer the most frequently asked questions about pea protein. What makes pea protein a ‘complete’ protein? Raj: Pea protein is often regarded as a complete protein due to its impressive profile of essential amino acids. It contains all nine of the essential amino acids that our bodies cannot produce on their own, making it a valuable source of nutrition, especially for those following plant-based diets. The quantities of these amino acids are particularly noteworthy; while it may not have the same levels of certain amino acids as animal proteins, it still provides a well-rounded balance that supports muscle growth, repair, and overall health. This makes pea protein an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their protein intake without relying on animal sources. Why is pea protein considered to be a sustainable source of protein? Sarkar: Pea protein is considered one of the most sustainable protein sources because its production requires fewer resources, including water and land, compared to animal-based proteins like meat and dairy. Peas naturally undergo a nitrogen-fixing process that replenishes nitrogen in the soil, thereby decreasing the need for synthetic fertilizers. This improves the health of the soil while lowering damage done to the environment. The process of producing pea protein results in lesser greenhouse gas emissions and a smaller carbon footprint when compared to livestock farming, which itself is a huge contributor to global emissions. The infrastructures required for pea protein production are extremely low as compared to other protein sources; thus, it becomes an affordable source of protein and an environmentally friendly option to choose. What are some creative ways to incorporate pea protein into a balanced diet? Sarkar: Pea protein is a highly versatile ingredient that can be easily incorporated into various meals to enhance protein intake. Because of its neutral taste, pea protein works really well in both sweet and savoury recipes, making it such a budget-friendly and versatile addition to your day-to-day meals. There are many ways to use pea protein: Mix into smoothies or shakes for post-workout recovery Mix into pancake or waffle batter for a high-protein breakfast Textured pea-protein chunks can be used in curries, stir-fries, soups, and pasta Pea protein powder can also be made into homemade protein bars or energy balls for small snacks. It can also be added to muffins, cakes, or bread for some added protein. Is pea protein suitable for everyone? Sarkar: Pea protein is generally well-tolerated and is considered among most safe protein sources. It is less allergenic than common protein sources such as dairy (whey) or soy, and it is an excellent alternative for people who have a soy allergy or are lactose intolerant. Plant proteins like pea protein tend to be tolerated better by people who suffer from chronic kidney disease, as they are less stressful on the kidneys than animal protein. However, the increased risk for those patients with hyperuricemia (high uric acid levels) should be on the cautious side while ingesting pea protein because this could further increase the uric acid buildup in the body leading to a flare-up of gout. Also, people who have an allergy to specific legumes should consult a doctor before adding pea protein in their diet. What are the different types of pea protein available? Sarkar: There are different types of pea protein, mainly pea protein isolates, pea protein concentrates, and textured pea protein, each with distinct nutritional profiles and uses. Each type of pea protein serves different dietary needs, making it a flexible and valuable protein source. Pea protein isolate is the most refined form, containing the highest protein concentration with minimal carbohydrates and fats. It is commonly used by athletes, bodybuilders, and vegans to support muscle protein synthesis and prevent muscle loss. Pea protein concentrate, on the other hand, is less processed and retains some carbohydrates and fats, making it a balanced option for general dietary supplementation. Textured pea protein comes in chunk or granule form and is often used as a plant-based meat substitute in burgers, stir-fries, and curries. It is a great option for children during their growth phase, as it provides essential nutrients in an appealing texture. How does the protein content of pea protein compare to other plant-based protein sources like soy, rice, or hemp? Raj: When evaluating the protein content of pea protein in relation to other plant-based sources such as soy, rice, and hemp, it becomes evident that pea protein stands out for its impressive amino acid profile and digestibility. While soy protein is often lauded for its complete amino acid content, pea protein offers a robust alternative that is not only rich in essential amino acids but also hypoallergenic, making it suitable for those with soy allergies. Compared to rice protein, which is lower in lysine, pea protein provides a more balanced amino acid profile, enhancing its appeal for those seeking a well-rounded plant-based protein source. Beyond muscle growth and recovery, what other health benefits are associated with pea protein consumption? Raj: Incorporating pea protein into your diet can thus contribute to a holistic approach to health and wellness, making it a smart addition for anyone looking to enhance their overall well-being. Pea protein offers a multitude of health benefits that extend far beyond just muscle growth and recovery. One significant advantage is its role in weight management; being high in protein and low in calories, it can help promote satiety, reducing overall calorie intake and aiding in weight loss efforts. Pea protein is beneficial for heart health, as it can help lower cholesterol levels and improve overall cardiovascular function. It plays a crucial role in blood sugar control, as its low glycaemic index helps stabilise blood sugar levels, making it an excellent choice for those looking to manage their diabetes or maintain steady energy levels throughout the day. Is pea protein easily digestible? Raj: Pea protein is often praised for its digestibility, but many wonder if it truly is easy on the stomach. While it is generally considered a gentle protein source, some individuals may experience digestive discomfort, including symptoms like gas or bloating, after consuming it. This can vary from person to person, depending on their unique digestive systems and dietary habits. Therefore, it's essential to pay attention to how your body reacts when incorporating pea protein into your diet, as understanding your own digestive responses can help you make informed choices about your nutrition. What is the recommended daily intake of pea protein, and how does that vary based on individual needs? Raj: Understanding the optimal daily intake of pea protein is essential, as it can significantly differ based on individual requirements, such as those of athletes, vegans, and the general population. For athletes, who often have higher protein demands to support muscle recovery and growth, current intake needs to be assessed and additional requirement should be based decided which is up to 20 to 30 grams may be beneficial. In contrast, vegans, who rely on plant-based sources for their protein, might aim for a similar range to ensure they meet their nutritional needs without animal products. Meanwhile, the general population typically requires less, with recommendations suggesting around 10 to 15 grams per day to maintain overall health. It is crucial to consider these varying needs to tailor protein intake effectively, ensuring that everyone can achieve their health and fitness goals while enjoying the benefits of this versatile plant-based protein source.
03 March,2025 02:55 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalLimiting exposure to screens and reducing gaming volume is essential to prevent hearing loss in children, said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on World Hearing Day on Monday. World Hearing Day is observed every year on March 3 to raise awareness about preventing deafness and hearing loss and to advocate for ear and hearing care worldwide. The theme this year is "Changing mindsets: Empower yourself to make ear and hearing care a reality for all”. The Ministry noted that kids are the most vulnerable for hearing loss due to increased exposure to screen time, and loud sounds from online games. “WorldHearingDay2025 | Children are more vulnerable to hearing damage caused by loud sounds, gaming, and excessive screen time,” the Ministry said, in a post on social media platform X. #WorldHearingDay2025 | Children are more vulnerable to hearing damage caused by loud sounds, gaming, and excessive screen time.Take these simple steps to protect to them from hearing loss! pic.twitter.com/6UWj2mGRIB — Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) March 3, 2025 While advising parents to limit children’s exposure to these, the ministry also listed some measures such as regular hearing checkups and safe listening habits. “Parents to take note. Children are more vulnerable to hearing damage from gaming and loud sounds. Limit kids' screen time and gaming volume,” the ministry said in an infographic. “Take these simple steps to protect them from hearing loss: encourage safe listening habits and ensure regular hearing checkups,” it added. According to the World Health Organization, a person is said to have hearing loss if they are not able to hear as well as someone with normal hearing. Although anyone can be at risk of hearing loss, it can be higher among elderly above 60 years old; those who regularly listen to loud music using headphones; work in noisy environments; frequently attend concerts or sports events; take medicines that can damage the ear; and have an ear infection. Meanwhile, Saima Wazed, Regional Director for WHO South-East Asia noted that hearing loss is an escalating public health challenge and that 660 million people in South-East Asia Region may be affected with the condition, if proper measures to tackle the problem are not taken. “Over 1.5 billion people are affected globally, with nearly 80 per cent living in low- and middle-income countries,” said Wazed said. “An estimated 400 million people experience hearing problems in our South-East Asia Region alone -- a number that could rise to 660 million by 2050 if current trends continue,” she added. The Regional Director said that hearing problems are preventable with effective and cost-efficient interventions like hearing screenings and hearing aid services. She also lauded India for conducting “field-testing of training on assistive products hearing modules”. However, “over 80 per cent of ear and hearing care needs worldwide remain unmet. Bridging this gap must be a priority,” she said. While calling on governments to prioritise ear and hearing care, as well as challenge stigma, Wazed noted that if the problem of hearing loss remains unaddressed, it may affect “language development, education, employment, and mental health”. Also Read: Wearing earphones for prolonged periods may damage your hearing; here's how This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
03 March,2025 12:48 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSADVERTISEMENT
