India could see a dramatic rise in gastric cancer among those born between 2008 and 2017 unless it takes urgent action to eradicate Helicobacter pylori, a new study warns. The research, led by Jin Young Park and colleagues and published this week in Nature Medicine, estimates that “15.6 million (95% uncertainty interval 14.0–17.3 million) lifetime […]
CLAIM: US Health Secretary RFK Jr claims hidden studies prove vaccines lead to autism. FACT: False. The referenced “study” is an abstract, not peer-reviewed, and follow-up research found no such link. Multiple scientific authorities, including the CDC, reject the claim. The US Health Secretary, Robert F Kennedy Jr recently appeared on the The Tucker […]
Claim: Karnataka CM hints at COVID-19 vaccines as a cause for sudden heart attacks among people Fact: False. Multiple sources including ICMR, AIIMS have stated that there is no proof linking COVID-19 vaccines to sudden heart attacks A recent tweet from the Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has linked cardiac deaths in Karnataka’s Hassan district to […]
Claim: Using the first urine of the day to wash your eyes is a healthy and beneficial practice. Fact: False. Medical experts have strongly refuted the claim, warning that urine contains waste products and bacteria that can cause serious eye infections and harm. A viral video on social media shows a woman advising people to […]
Claim: Children wanting salt and parents feeding them flaky sea salt is a healthy sign. Fact: Children do crave sodium and nutrients than adults, but it is not advisable to give them salt flakes as snacks. First Check received a query from one of our readers through our tipline +91 9311223141 for a […]
More than 2.1 lakh people in India are living with sickle cell disease (SCD), with over 16 lakh carrying the trait, figures that experts warn may be just a fraction of the country’s true burden, latest government figures reveal. As India faces prevalence and childhood mortality rates comparable to Africa, the government has intensified its […]
CLAIM: Using the air conditioner overnight can cause respiratory problems, dry skin and eyes, muscle stiffness, and fatigue, among other health issues. FACT: True. Prolonged exposure to air conditioners, be it overnight or during the day can exacerbate respiratory issues. But precautions can be taken to ensure safety. As summer temperatures soar in India […]
A unique case of medical negligence that went on for 22 years has finally been quashed by the Patna High Court, where the accused, a female gynaecologist, has been found to be innocent. The court found that the gynaecologist was wrongly implicated in allegations of unlawful kidney removal during a 2000 surgery, in which she […]
Blood donation continues to remain a challenge in India, with demand far exceeding the supply. In 2023, then Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, S.P. Baghel had said that the demand for a blood transfusion arises every 2 seconds in India. “On an average, 14.6 million blood (units) is needed every year and […]
Voluntary blood donation can save up to three lives with every unit and remains the cornerstone of emergency care, chronic illness treatment, and life-saving surgeries, says leading hematologist Dr Kanjaksha Ghosh, highlighting the critical need for regular donations as India marks 20 years of World Blood Donor Day. “Every year, World Blood Donor Day is […]
First Check came across a reel in which a popular social media health influencer, Dimple Jangda claims that painkillers can lead to a host of issues from cardiac to infertility. “Painkillers, they increase the risk of heart attack, cardiac health issues by almost 20%,” the influencer says. “So women who would take a lot of […]
Claim: Ear pain can be relieved by putting drops of heated aloe vera gel into the ear. Fact: False. This is unsafe and not recommended. First Check received a fact-check request on our tipline +91 9311223141 from a reader who shared a home remedy for pain relief video. The speaker claims that ear […]
CLAIM: Kajal keeps the eyes healthy and prevents infections Fact: False. Experts warn kajal has no health benefits and may even harm the eyes, especially if it contains lead First Check received a fact-check request on our tipline +91 9311223141 from one of our dedicated readers who shared two videos from a channel called Hitaa […]
CLAIM: Consuming a high-protein diet causes elevated ammonia levels in the brain, leading to memory loss, seizures, and poor sleep FACT: Misleading. The protein study cited in the video is based on a computer simulation involving liver cirrhosis patients, not healthy individuals, and offers no such conclusions for the general population First came […]
Claim: Bottle gourd (lauki) can be used instead of blood thinners. Fact: False. There is no credible scientific evidence that bottle gourd can replace medically prescribed blood thinners. While bottle gourd has some general health benefits, it does not have proven anticoagulant (blood-thinning) properties in humans. First Check received a fact-check request on our tipline […]
Claim: We should shampoo our hair every day for healthy hair and scalp. Fact: Not necessarily. The scientific consensus and expert recommendations do not universally support daily shampooing for everyone. The ideal frequency depends on individual hair type, scalp condition, and lifestyle. A viral reel on social media and advice from many […]
CAR T-Cell therapy has revolutionized cancer treatment across the world but has been most effective against blood cancer, and not as much against other types of cancers, until now. Now, researchers in China demonstrated that they have successfully concluded an experimental immunotherapy using engineered immune cells which significantly improves survival in people with advanced gastric […]
Claim: Gut is our second brain Fact: True. The gut contains a complex nervous system and produces mood-related chemicals like serotonin, significantly influencing brain function, though it doesn’t “think” like the brain. The phrase “the gut is our second brain” has become increasingly popular in both scientific circles and social media. First Check […]
Claim: Poor peeing hygiene habits in men can be a cause of UTIs in their female partners Fact: True. Lack of hygiene in men can cause UTIs in their female partners. Everyone should follow clean and safe sexual practices, and maintain hygiene at all times. Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are among the most common […]
CLAIM: A drink made from garlic, lemon, turmeric, and pepper permanently boosts immunity and prevents all diseases, according to Barbara O’Neil FACT: False. No scientific evidence supports this claim, and O’Neil is banned in Australia for spreading dangerous health misinformation First Check came across a video of Barbara O Neil, the controversial Australian naturopath who […]
Claim: Black Plastics contain flame retardants which are carcinogens and can reduce one’s lifespan Fact: True. But the study which has been used as the reference for this claim also adds that “further studies are needed to replicate these findings and determine the underlying mechanisms.” An instagram video titled, “Stop Using Black Plastic – […]
Consuming more than 300 grams of poultry per week may significantly increase the risk of death from gastrointestinal cancers, according to a new population-based study conducted in southern Italy. The research, published in the journal Nutrients, analyzed data from nearly 5,000 adults enrolled in the two different cohort studies. Participants’ dietary habits were assessed using […]
Former US President Joe Biden’s recent diagnosis of aggressive, advanced prostate cancer has brought global attention to the disease and its impact on men’s health. In India, prostate cancer is fast becoming a major concern, though awareness remains alarmingly low, warns Dr. Ramesh Sarin, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology, who has over three decades of experience […]
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) are complex hormonal disorders affecting millions of women globally, yet a lot of misinformation about their causes and treatments persist. First Check verified three such claims sent in by readers through our tipline, with insights from a medical expert. Claim 1: PCOS/PCOD is caused by stress […]
Artificial intelligence systems can accurately identify a patient’s race from medical images even when clinical experts cannot, according to new research that raises concerns about potential bias in healthcare applications. A study published in the European Heart Journal – Digital Health found that AI models trained on cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging could reliably classify […]
Over half of children born during 2020 and after will experience significantly more extreme weather events during their lifetimes than previous generations, even if global warming is limited to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, according to a latest study published in Nature. The international study titled “Global emergence of unprecedented lifetime exposure to climate […]
Adolescents with clinical mental health conditions use social media differently than their peers without such conditions, spending significantly more time online and experiencing greater dissatisfaction with their virtual social connections, according to research published earlier this month, in Nature Human Behaviour. The researchers from University of Cambridge analyzed data from 3,340 British adolescents aged 11 […]
As temperatures climb across the country, it also heralds the arrival of what many doctors call “stone season” – the time of year when cases of painful kidney stones spike due to increased dehydration. The Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology had estimated that during summers, “there is a sharp increase in the number of […]
CLAIM: Eggs feed viruses and bacteria in the body and worsen chronic illnesses such as eczema, PCOS, and endometriosis FACT: False. Eggs are a nutrient-rich food with no scientific link to promoting viruses or causing chronic illnesses A health coach, Theo Bergmann claims in an Instagram video that eggs are the “most overrated health food,” […]
CLAIM: Heart Diseases are directly connected to the sex of a person, with females being at lower risk. FACT: Largely true; while it is true that heart disease is more prevalent in men than women, there are some nuances that should not be ignored either. First Check came across a video on YouTube titled […]
Global progress in human development has slowed to its weakest pace in 35 years but India has improved its Human Development Index (HDI) rank to 130 out of the 193 countries surveyed in 2023, reveals the UNDP’s Human Development Report, released on Tuesday. Previously India was at the 133rd position, the gain has been driven […]
Barbara O’Neill, a prominent figure in alternative medicine circles, has urged women to reconsider using folic acid supplements, claiming that excessive intake may pose health risks. Posting on X, she advises that nutrients should be obtained from food rather than pills. “Think twice before reaching for your folic acid supplement,” she warns, suggesting that isolated […]
According to a new study in The Lancet eBioMedicine, India saw over 1 lakh of cardiovascular deaths attributable to plastic polymers and their chemical additives, the highest in the world. This once again highlights how everyday items such as plastic containers, toys, cosmetics, and even food packaging may be silently endangering millions of lives in […]
For years, Body Mass Index (BMI) has been the standard tool for assessing whether an individual has a healthy weight. But doctors are now referring to it as an outdated and an often-misleading metric. BMI is a rough guide doctors use to check if a person’s weight is in a healthy range for their height. […]
Getting a COVID-19 booster shot in the same arm as the initial vaccine dose may significantly speed up the body’s immune response, according to new research from Sydney, Australia, published in the journal Cell. The study, led by scientists at Sydney’s Garvan Institute of Medical Research and the Kirby Institute at UNSW Sydney, reveals how […]
CLAIM: Finasteride is better than minoxidil for hair loss FACT: Partly true. Studies do show that finasteride has produced better results than minoxidil, but both have different uses. Finasteride is useful to maintain existing hair and minoxidil is used to stimulate hair follicles for new hair. Finasteride and minoxidil are the two most […]
CLAIM: A well-known CEO and YouTuber suggests that taking vaccines could shorten a person’s life FACT: False, multiple studies have highlighted the benefits of vaccines and how they have contributed to increasing longevity across the world The founder and CEO of Bombay Shaving Company, Shantanu Deshpande recently posted on LinkedIn mentioning “vaccines” as one […]
Vaccines are known to save lives, with the World Health Organization estimating that immunisations “currently prevents 3.5 million to 5 million deaths every year from diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), influenza and measles.” However, despite the evidence about the efficacy and safety of vaccines, we are constantly plagued by myths and misinformation about […]
To many vaccinations are something that you go through as children, with little to no focus on vaccinations that need to be taken in their later years. However, the scientific community is increasingly about talking about adult vaccinations and a life-course approach to vaccinations, to ensure that protection against certain dangerous infectious diseases last beyond […]
Vaccines are more than just a childhood milestone or a scar on our elders’ arms in India, where infectious diseases have historically posed serious health threats. They are a lifelong defense against fatal diseases that have the potential to cripple us. But do you know all the necessary vaccines one should get before turning 18? […]
CLAIM Nicotine infusions can cure glioblastoma tumors, type 1 diabetes, and even autism. FACT: There is no scientific evidence to support these claims. Experts warn that nicotine is a neurotoxin, not a cure. A viral video on Instagram features Dr Bryan Adris, a licensed American Chiropractor, Acupuncturist, and Nutritionist and an alternative medicine practitioner, […]
Pope Francis died following a cerebral stroke and irreversible heart failure, the Vatican confirmed in its official medical report. Pope, 88, was the first person of Latin American origin to become the leader of the Catholic Church. A cerebral stroke happens when a portion of the brain’s blood supply is cut off or blocked, depriving […]
This World Liver Day, we are revisiting an interesting case shared earlier this year by Dr Cyriac Abby Philips, popularly knows as “The Liver Doc,” which highlights a crucial misunderstanding about liver function tests that could save many from unnecessary worry—rigorous exercise could result in elevated liver function test counts. The case involves a young […]
Did you know that even if you don’t drink, you could still get Liver damage? And, no, it’s not because someone punched you in the gut. It’s called the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or NAFLD in short, which is First Check’s focus for the World Liver Day. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is rapidly emerging as […]
Orhan Awatramani, an Indian internet personality, fashion icon, and socialite, recently claimed that he lost weight after practicing a grueling regimen of self-imposed starving during late 2023. Speaking on an episode of “The Suvir Saran Show,” Orry, as he is widely known, said that the extreme routine paid off. “I was really fat, I was […]
Have you ever thought about how physical attractiveness varies among siblings? Well, First Check came across a reel on Instagram with over 117k views titled “Beauty Difference in Siblings,” that puts forth an explanation. “Are you more physically attractive or are your siblings? This is less dependent on your genes and more on your birth […]
Conception during the cold season lowers the risk of developing obesity, says a new study. Published in Nature Metabolism on April 7, the study found that people conceived in winter show more brown adipose tissue (BAT) activity, often known as brown fat, which burns calories to produce heat unlike white fat that stores energy. “Individuals […]
CLAIM: In boxing films, swelling around a fighter’s eye is often shown being treated by slicing it open — is this a legitimate medical practice? FACT: False. Medical experts confirm that cutting open a swelling is unsafe, never used in professional sports, and can lead to serious complications like infection. The punches are landing […]
As the world marks World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, here are some of the still prevalent myths on the condition. Myth 1: Autism can be cured It can’t. This misconception suggests that autistic individuals are ill and need treatment to become normal. In reality, autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental […]
CLAIM: C-Section babies suffer from anxiety later in life and it can it be cured by clamping and pulling on one’s head FACT: Wrong. The exercise might provide relief similar to a massage, it has no connection to how a person was born First Check received a video on our tipline where a man, @jasonvanblerk […]
Diabetes and hypertension are the leading causes of kidney disease in India, accounting for nearly 60% of cases, says Dr Vijay Kher. a noted nephrologist with over 40 years of experience. However, Dr Kher reassures that diabetic kidney damage typically develops gradually, providing opportunities for intervention. “It usually takes 10 to 15 years for diabetes […]
Forty-year-old Ranjit Singh stays at the night shelter on Asaf Ali Road in New Delhi where residents were recently screened and tested for tuberculosis (TB), as part of the Union Government’s 100 Day Intensified Campaign on TB Elimination, which started on 7th December, 2024. Singh, one among the 200 residents at the shelter, had been […]
CLAIM: Brush your teeth at night and then after you eat breakfast in the morning. FACT: True; doctors First Check spoke to advised that brushing two times, at night before going to bed and after breakfast in the morning is the most ideal practice. Since childhood, we have been repeatedly told that we […]
CLAIM: A, B and AB blood groups are more prone to blood clotting, raising the risk of heart attacks and early strokes FACT: Misleading. While A, B, and AB blood groups have higher clotting tendencies, their link to heart attacks and strokes is still under investigation, as cardiac risk depends on multiple factors […]
The United States is facing an outbreak of measles, a disease declared eliminated in the country since 2000. Over 250 cases have been reported across multiple states with Texas hardest hit. Two fatalities, a child in Texas and an adult in New Mexico, have also been recorded. “CDC issues Health Alert Network (HAN) Advisory to […]
CLAIM: Taking certain supplement combinations hinders their absorption and cancels out each other’s effects FACT: Misleading as most supplements are a combination of multiple metals and minerals A Youtube video has claimed that intake of supplement combinations can interfere with their absorption or “cancel out each other’s effects.” “If we take calcium […]
CLAIM: Air fryers cause cancer FACT: No, they do not, they are better than frying on a pan using oil or cooking over an open flame A claim that refuses to die down is that air fryers cause cancer. Social media is filled with such videos and posts. A random search on X […]
An unknown disease outbreak in the northwest of the Democratic Republic of Congo has set alarm bells ringing in the medical community with the speculation that it might be severe malaria, but doctors have not yet been able to draw a definite conclusion. The unknown disease has claimed at least 60 lives as of publishing […]
CLAIM: Women’s bodies need fat stores to maintain healthy hormone production FACT: True. Women need body fat for hormone production, and very low body fat levels can disrupt menstrual cycles and overall health. Maintaining abs can risk hormonal imbalances. Speaking on a podcast, actress Tanishaa Mukerji claimed that women can’t maintain abs for a long […]
CLAIM: Consuming fish and milk together or one after other can lead to vitiligo. FACT: This is a myth; there is no scientific evidence supporting this idea, as vitiligo is primarily caused by autoimmune factors, not dietary combinations. ‘Don’t have milk and fish together!’ This is a common warning that many of our elders have […]
Indian industrialist Harsh Goenka has sparked debate over a widely touted weight loss remedy, once again drawing attention to the scientific validity of drinking lemon juice and honey for weight management — a practice that has gained significant traction on social media platforms. “I was told that if you drink lemon juice with honey every morning for […]
Since his Bharat Jodo Yatra a couple of years back, Rahul Gandhi’s choice of ‘winter clothes’ has been a matter of great discussion. This year too, we saw the Indian National Congress leader all over our Television screens and on social media in just a white T-shirt during the Delhi election campaign and parliament sessions […]
On January 25, 2025, a day before the country celebrated Republic Day, Dr Jose Chacko Periappuram, one of India’s pioneering cardiac surgeons, received a phone call from a Secretary in the Home Ministry. It was a phone call that he probably would not forget any time soon—he had won the Padma Bhushan for ‘revolutionising surgical […]
CLAIM: Drinking beer is good for bone health, and can prevent osteoporosis. FACT: Medical experts have criticized the PETA advertisement calling it a dangerous misrepresentation of scientific research that could mislead consumers. In fact, alcohol consumption is a risk factor for osteoporosis. Medical experts are strongly criticizing a PETA advertisement that claims beer consumption […]
CLAIM: Cut down oil intake by 10 percent to improve health. FACT: True, doctors First Check spoke to agreed with the suggestion, and stated to us that if adopted this would help improve the health of people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his inaugural speech for the 38th National Games in Dehradun, Uttarakhand advised people […]
At the beginning of February, Karishma Mehta, the Founder and CEO of the popular Humans of Bombay Instagram page, shared that she chose to freeze her eggs the previous month. She shared the news in a post on Instagram where she shared the important events in her life in the first month of 2025, sparking a conversation about […]
CLAIM: Inserting fingers into the mouth can treat tonsillitis. FACT: This practice is unsafe and can introduce new infections; proper medical treatment is necessary First Check came across a viral video on Facebook in which a man claims to cure tonsillitis by inserting fingers into mouth. “I treat tonsils and jaundice free of cost here,” […]
First Check received a WhatsApp tipline request from a reader regarding a video circulating on WhatsApp. In the video, a person claims that winter causes a rise in blood pressure and urges elderly not to get out of the bed before 8 AM lest it lead to paralysis or heart attack. “We see more cases […]
CLAIM: Paracetamol is the most harmful medicine in the world and should be avoided FACT: Paracetamol is safe when used as directed by medical professionals; risks arise only from overdose or misuse A podcast shared by @vatsalasingh in a tweet on December 3, 2024 describes paracetamol as the world’s most harmful medicine. The account has […]
CLAIM: Ivermectin reduces the ability to conceive and grow babies, causing infertility FACT: Misleading. Ivermectin’s safety during pregnancy remains inconclusive An Instagram channel @simone.gisondi with a following of 275,000 has recently posted a video of a British anti-vaccine activist and an ex-Pfizer scientist Dr Mike Yeadon where he terms Ivermectin, an antiparasitic drug, as “one of the most violent fertility toxins.” “Ivermectin is […]
CLAIM: A viral video suggests drinking from plastic bottles leads to ingesting a credit card’s worth of plastic weekly. FACT: False. While an earlier 2019 study did claim so, more recent research from 2022 shows that the actual microplastic intake is about one millionth of that amount, and comes from various sources, not just plastic […]
CLAIM: Benzoyl Peroxide is effective for acne, particularly inflammatory acne. FACT: Benzoyl Peroxide should only be used under a dermatologist’s guidance, as improper use or concentration may cause irritation, burns, or allergic reactions. A video posted on Instagram by skincare and lifestyle influencer @banya_biswas.00 recommends using Benzoyl Peroxide for treatment of acne has drawn drawn.3,000 […]
CLAIM: IIT Madras Director V. Kamakoti claims cow urine has medicinal properties including the ability to cure fever in 15 minutes and help with digestive issues like Irritable Bowel Syndrome, citing an anecdote about a monk who used it. FACT: Medical experts, including gastroenterologists who First Check contacted, state there is no scientific evidence or […]
CLAIM: HIV is part of the composition of COVID-19 vaccines FACT: False. An experimental vaccine developed by Professor Keith Chappell, a molecular virologist, in 2020 incorporated a small HIV protein segment but posed no risk of HIV transmission. The vaccine never progressed beyond initial Phase 1 trials and was never distributed publicly. Reports about […]
CLAIM: A majority of Keralites are lactose intolerant, while 70% of West and North Indians can easily digest milk. FACT: Studies show that while Indians in general are lactose intolerant, more South Indians were prone to the condition than those from Northern parts of the country. A popular reel on Instagram claims that a majority […]
CLAIM: Puffy underarms signify toxin buildup in the body FACT: There is no scientific evidence that underarm “puffs” indicate toxin buildup. Variations in armpit appearance are normal and related to factors like body composition and anatomy An Instagram reel from the channel @excelled.health uploaded on 23 December, 2024, asserts that a puffy underarm, rather than […]
A viral Instagram post by @daveymaher_fitness, who has 436,000 followers, claims that sugar has numerous harmful effects on the body, including the controversial statement that “sugar in a baby’s brsain is called ADHD.” The video titled “Truth about the effects of Sugar” has garnered 67 lakh views and 181,000 likes. “Sugar in a baby’s […]
A major challenge in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) lies in the public’s fundamental misunderstanding of the issue, with many people mistakenly believing that the human body becomes resistant to antibiotics, when in fact, it is the bacteria themselves that evolve to withstand these medicines, says Dr Manica Balasegaram, a leading expert at the Global […]
First Check came across a video on Instagram, from the channel “The Sassy Sorceress” with more than 199k subscribers, which has raked up 6.2 million views and has been shared over 115k times, with more than 250,000 likes. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Sassy Sorceress (@the.sassy.sorceress) The […]
CLAIM: Patharchatta leaves can dissolve kidney stones FACT: There is no scientific evidence to show that patharchatta leaves do not dissolve kidney stones. Experts warn against such unscientific home remedies for kidney stones, adding that if left untreated the complications could include urinary tract infections, severe pain, and in extreme cases, kidney damage. Recently a […]
CLAIM: A homemade tea can be used to detox lungs FACT: This is not true. Lungs cannot be detoxed by tea The First Check team came across a reel on Instagram with a claim that a “tea” can detox one’s lungs. Posted by @vaidyajayashreed, with 153,000 followers, the video has over 13.5 million views, 439,000 […]
CLAIM: Figs (Anjeer) are non-vegetarian as wasps are involved in the pollination process FACT: Figs come in multiple varieties, many of them don’t require wasps for pollination A couple of recent social media posts have claimed that figs are non-vegetarian. The claim originated on November 2 with a reel by @shashikant_iyengar, a verified account on […]
CLAIM: Hormones injected into cows linked to human cancer risk FACT: FALSE! There is no conclusive scientific evidence to support this The First Check team came across an Instagram post from the account “Satvik Movement, where they attribute a person’s recovery from cancer to the diet and lifestyle changes prescribed by Satvik Movement practitioners. […]
CLAIM: Eating an apple with cloves inserted overnight on an empty stomach can cure acidity, migraines, and other ailments. FACT: The claim is false. No scientific evidence supports the idea that eating a clove-laced apple can cure health issues. A viral video on Instagram shows a Hindi speaking man handing out apples inserted with cloves to people at a […]
CLAIM: A viral video says “analogue paneer” is made by mixing milk powder with oils to mimic real paneer FACT : It is true. The FSSAI defines analogue paneer as safe, though it’s not the same as traditional paneer Recent social media claims about the production of authentic and synthetic paneer have raised concerns […]
CLAIM US presidential candidate Donald Trump says “I’m the father of IVF” FACT IVF was developed by British scientists Sir Robert Edwards, Patrick Steptoe, and Jean Purdy, leading to the first IVF baby in 1978 Former United States President and now Presidential Candidate, Donald Trump, recently claimed that he was the “father” in vitro […]
CLAIM Salt is not as harmful when it comes to high blood pressure, as the body excretes it; sugar is the bigger problem. FACT Excessive salt and sugar intake can overwhelm natural processes, leading to high blood pressure A viral Instagram video from the account @getsetfit claims that salt consumption isn’t problematic for blood pressure and […]
CLAIM Root canals lead to breast cancer among women FACT No scientific evidence to support this assertion A YouTube channel The Skinny Confidential has put out a YouTube Short claiming there is a link between root canal and breast cancer. The video has got more than 18,00,000 views and over 56,000 likes. Even otherwise, […]
A video has been going viral on Instagram, which advocates against the removal of wisdom teeth, and is peppered with multiple claims about the benefits of keeping them, and the dangers of removing even impacted wisdom teeth. The video, which has been played close to 8 million times and has over 72,000 likes, claims […]
CLAIM: Diabetes does not affect one’s eyes, as long as your blood sugar levels are in control. FACT: Diabetic retinopathy, an eye condition that can lead to vision loss in diabetics, is primarily influenced by the duration of diabetes rather than immediate blood sugar control. A common belief among diabetes patients is […]
CLAIM: Flavoured vapes can help people quit smoking FACT: Evidence from multiple studies supports Trump’s claim that vaping has indeed helped many people quit smoking, though the extent of its effectiveness may vary depending on the person. US Presidential hopeful Donald Trump claimed in a social media post that flavored vaping “greatly helped […]
As we commemorate World Mental Health Day, mental health professionals are sounding the alarm on the growing challenges of maintaining work-life balance in an increasingly connected world. Experts point to shifting workplace dynamics, technological intrusion, and a lack of coping strategies as key factors affecting mental health in professional settings. Conversations around mental health […]
CLAIM: AIIMS has said that eating hot food in plastic containers or heating food in plastic containers leads to cancer FACT: Certain plastics can leach harmful chemicals into food, especially when heated, so it’s important to use food-safe, BPA-free containers and consider alternatives like glass or stainless steel. However, AIIMS has never put out […]
CLAIM: Consuming onions in Coca-Cola can cure diabetes and significantly reduce high blood sugar levels. FACT: While onions may help regulate blood sugar due to their beneficial compounds, consuming them in Coca-Cola is ineffective and counterproductive because of the high sugar content in the beverage. One of our First Check readers sent us a […]
CLAIM: Apeel uses carcinogenic chemicals in its edible coatings for fruits and vegetables. FACT: Apeel’s coatings use FDA-approved, plant-derived ingredients (primarily mono- and diglycerides) that are safe for consumption and can be easily washed off. Social media is rife with posts which claim that Apeel, a company producing edible coatings for fruits and vegetables, use […]
Claim: Fish Oil quality can be determined using a thermocol test. Fish Oil made of Triglycerides are superior than those of Ethyl Esters. Fact: The thermocol test is not a scientific test in any manner and does not determine anything. As for triglyceride and ethyl ester forms, both are effective omega-3 sources for the human […]
CLAIM: Leech Therapy cures cervical pain. FACT: There is no scientific evidence to back the claim that leech therapy can help cure pain. A recent Instagram reel, which has over 230,000 likes, claimed that leech therapy can cure cervical pain in seven sessions. The post was shared by Sehatplusshorts, who has close to […]
Earlier this year, Elon Musk, billionaire entrepreneur, owner of X and known supporter of US President hopeful Donald Trump, took to X to share his thoughts on birth control. “Hormonal birth control makes you fat, doubles risk of depression & triples risk of suicide. This is the clear scientific consensus, but very few people seem […]
CLAIM: JD Vance asserts a “massive rise” in communicable diseases like HIV and tuberculosis in , Ohio, because of a rise in Haitian migrant population FACT: Local health data shows no such massive increase in infectious diseases, contradicting Vance’s claims. US Senator and Donald Trump’s running mate for the 2024 US Presidential elections, JD […]
CLAIM Consuming curd, salad, banana, radish at night with dinner leads to diseases FACT Scientific evidence does not support the claim that consuming curd, salad, banana, or radish at night leads to diseases; these foods are generally nutritious and easily digestible at any time of day. A popular claim among traditional medicinal practitioners […]
CLAIM: Caffeine should not be consumed at all while trying to conceive. FACT: Recent scientific research suggests that this widely held belief may not be entirely accurate; moderation is the key. The notion that caffeine must be entirely eliminated from one’s diet when attempting to conceive has been a belief popular among people […]
An Indian in-vitro fertilization (IVF) specialist has filed a petition in the Delhi High Court challenging current regulations that prohibit the donation of unused embryos to other couples, a practice he argues is widely accepted internationally and could benefit many struggling with infertility. Dr. Aniruddha Narayan Malpani, with over 35 years of experience in the […]
CLAIM: Holding a laptop on lap for extended periods leads to infertility in men FACT: Correct. Laptop use on the lap may potentially impact male fertility due to heat and exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) Do you also often work with your laptop on your lap? Social media often trends with hashtags such […]
Pregnancy and motherhood can be a beautiful time- the joys of pregnancy, the anticipation of welcoming a new life, the blessing of a child. However, it can also have a darker side that is rarely spoken about. Depression during pregnancy and immediately after giving birth, called the perinatal period, is a dark reality that is […]
CLAIM: Zinc deficiency negatively affects male reproductive health and overall immunity. FACT: Scientific evidence strongly supports zinc’s crucial role in testosterone production, sperm quality, metabolism, and immune function, highlighting its importance for male health. There are few topics that keep social media abuzz like conversations and posts on fertility- from home remedies to help […]
For colorectal cancer, chemotherapy, especially when combined with surgery, can significantly boost survival chances CLAIM Chemotherapy has a failure rate of 97% FACT False. Effectiveness of chemotherapy and cancer survival rates vary based on various factors such as disease progression, patient health status, comorbidities, and lifestyle habits. This is a complex issue and cannot […]
CLAIM: Childhood vaccination leads to autism FACT: Scientific consensus firmly establishes that childhood vaccinations do not cause autism A claim that keeps popping up on social media and elsewhere, over and over again, is that vaccinating your child could lead to them developing autism. Vaccines indeed seem to cause autism. Shoutout to the […]
The 10-year follow-up study involved 945 patients across 137 sites in 21 countries Roughly half of metastatic melanoma patients treated with a combination of immune checkpoint inhibitors remain cancer-free for a decade, according to a new report from Weill Cornell Medicine and Dana-Farber Cancer Center investigators and their colleagues, published in the New England […]
CLAIM: Estrogen from birth control pills is contaminating tap water, and drinking it can emasculate men. FACT: Research indicates that birth control pills contribute to less than 1% of estrogens found in drinking water. The alleged link between trace amounts of estrogen in water and gender dysphoria or “emasculation” lacks scientific support. A […]
Does your health supplement have artificial sweeteners and flavourings? Well, the co-founder of a health supplement brand has claimed that some of these substances, which are commonly found in supplements and food products, should be “completely avoided” as they are unsafe! In a recent YouTube video, the co-founder of nutraceutical brand Miduty, Palak Midha, was […]
The study on healthcare workers, analysed 10 distinct studies conducted between 2004 and 2023, uncovered an average of 2,391.6 TB cases per 100,000 healthcare workers, almost 8 times the rate observed in the general population A recent study has shed light on the heightened risk of tuberculosis (TB) infection among healthcare workers in India. […]
CLAIM: HPV vaccine is dangerous leading to infertility and death. HPV and cervical cancer are not significant threats. FACT: Scientific evidence shows that HPV is a real threat, and the vaccine is safe and effective. It does not lead to infertility or death. All major health organizations recommend HPV vaccine to combat cervical cancers. […]
Constipated individuals were twice as likely to experience a heart attack, stroke, or heart failure compared to those without constipation, finds new study A recent Australian-led study analysed data from thousands of participants to conclude that being constipated may be more than just an uncomfortable condition– it could also mean that you are more likely to […]
While losing weight may help many pre-diabetics manage their condition, it may not help all, findings reveal Losing weight can help pre-diabetic patients, but it isn’t always sufficient to reverse the disease, says a new study. According to research by the Centenary Institute, certain fats in blood can predict whether losing weight will help pre-diabetic […]
CLAIM: Chicken Pox starts spreading once the rashes break out. FACT: A person infected with chicken pox can start spreading the virus 1-2 days before the rash even appears. Chicken pox is a common illness we all fall prey to during our lives. Even though almost everyone has it at least once, some myths […]
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine states that simple blood tests measuring one’s cholesterol levels and inflammation markers can predict a woman’s risk of developing heart disease over the next 30 years. The research, conducted with nearly 28,000 women in the U.S., focused on measuring two specific fats—low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and […]
Regular exercise is the best way to keep the muscles toned, the blood flowing, and reduce the risk of developing varicose veins. Gym goers and fitness enthusiasts often find their veins popping out after a good workout session. In the same way, seasoned weightlifters have prominent veins on their arms, legs and other body parts. […]
Polymer fume fever, an illness that can occur when Teflon-coated pans are overheated, can easily be prevented. ‘Teflon flu’ has been trending online, following a surge in suspected cases recently in the United States. Does it have any connection with non-stick cookware? Is it a serious health condition? Can it be prevented? The questions are […]
Robert Chesebrough, the American chemist who discovered petroleum jelly and lived for 96 years, had a spoonful of Vaseline every day, according to social media posts. We’ve all heard the popular adage that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. If social media is to be believed though, Robert Chesebrough, the American chemist who […]
Proponents claim that stimulating specific points on the ear can treat various health conditions affecting different parts of the body. A YouTube video in Hindi (with 4.2K+ views) of a recent podcast episode with a physiotherapist in India has been doing the rounds on social media platforms. “Is there any evidence to support the science […]
Hibiscus tea may have medicinal properties, but clinical research on the subject is currently limited. Earlier this week, a popular Indian actress put out a social media post on hibiscus tea, thanking her nutritionist for introducing her to the wonder drink with numerous health benefits. In response, a doctor known for combatting misleading health information […]
The presence of male cells in women could be attributed to pregnancies with male foetuses, or the transfer of cells from male siblings during gestation. “Do women carry the DNA of men they’ve had sexual intercourse with?” asked a First Check reader. This is an old claim that has been periodically surfacing on the internet […]
Its unique composition has led NASA to incorporate spirulina into astronauts’ diets to meet their nutritional needs in space. In recent years, spirulina, a type of blue-green algae, has captivated the attention of health enthusiasts and social media influencers alike. This microscopic marvel is claimed to have an impressive nutritional profile with several health benefits. […]
Reduced blood flow makes it tougher to detect gum disease in early stages, as bleeding gums are an early warning sign. While the risks of oral cancer due to tobacco use are well-known, many people are unaware of other detrimental effects on dental health. Research shows that tobacco use causes periodontal disease, oral mucosal lesions, […]
Air fryers operate at similar temperatures to deep fryers, but the most significant difference between the two methods lies in the fat and calorie content of the cooked food. “Are air fryer French fries a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried ones?” asked a First Check reader. For all those who love their French fries, First […]
The cosmetic industry has capitalised on insecurities surrounding cellulite – promoting treatments that offer temporary results, at best. Cellulite, a common skin condition affecting 80-90 per cent of post-pubertal women, has been the focus of the billion-dollar cosmetic industry. Disparagingly referred to as orange-peel skin or cottage cheese skin on social media platforms, the perception […]
Replenishing electrolytes like potassium and sodium, or stretching and massaging the affected muscle may help alleviate the pain. “Does drinking water help cure cramps?” asked a First Check reader. Another query was about “the effectiveness of consuming sesame seed balls to alleviate pain during cramps”. First Check gets you the science-backed answer. Cramping, or tightening […]
Studies find that soaking nuts does not improve gastrointestinal tolerance or have any effect on phytate levels. Social media experts seem unanimous in their recommendation of soaking nuts overnight before consumption. This practice is touted to have immense health benefits, but is the claim backed by science? First Check gets you the answer. According to […]
Older vaccines often used live but weakened viruses or bacteria that caused localised infection, triggering an immune response. In the past, getting a vaccine often left a scar on your arm. Many people assumed that the scar meant the vaccine was working. Today, modern vaccines today don’t cause scarring. Does it mean they aren’t as […]
A personal account of battling ignorance and online misinformation that made a manageable condition worse. I was 19 when I got diagnosed with hypothyroidism. The symptoms had been present since a long time, but I didn’t take them seriously. Neither did anyone else. I remember feeling tired most of the time, gaining excess weight, having […]
Feeding a baby with formula for the first six months of life can result in the emission of a quarter tonne of greenhouse gases, note public health researchers. Have you ever thought of breastfeeding as a sustainable food source? Can it serve as a carbon offset for the formula milk industry? A group of public […]
It’s high time we de-normalise tobacco use, given the massive price we are paying in terms of poor public health, high economic cost, and detrimental environmental effects. Tobacco addiction remains a formidable public health crisis globally, claiming an estimated eight million lives each year, including 1.3 million non-smokers who are exposed to second-hand smoke. Despite […]
Targeted exercises can improve muscle tone and appearance, but they cannot really burn fat in specific areas of the body. By Allen Joe Mathew Social media is flooded with fitness videos recommending exercises that target specific areas of the body. Whether it’s reducing belly fat or facial fat, the videos claim that spot reduction can […]
The product is still being sold on major e-commerce sites in India, along with the misleading FSSAI logo. WhatsApp messages about cow urine now being bottled and sold in India have been doing the rounds for some time. Recently, the Press Information Bureau of India (PIB) put out a tweet that the Food Safety and […]
A recent YouTube video with 256K+ views suggests that alcohol consumption can keep glucose levels “steady and flat”. Interestingly, the speaker acknowledges that it is a “devious” or unhealthy method to keep the blood glucose levels in check.
A recent video of an Indian politician talking to the media during the ongoing election campaigns has been in the news for the dubious health claim. If an Indian politician is to be believed, the best way to cope with the scorching weather conditions is to carry an onion in your pocket! A recent video […]
Cooking rice along with any form of fat, not just coconut oil, reduces the calories absorbed by the body from the rice. Does cooking rice with coconut oil result in the reduction of calories in the rice? The query was shared by a First Check reader after watching a video on YouTube. While the video […]
The Bihar Information and Media Literacy Initiative, conducted in partnership with JEEViKA and DataLEADS, shows how media training programmes can empower young adults to navigate the digital world responsibly. How can we equip youngsters with skills to discern and counter health misinformation? The Bihar Information and Media Literacy Initiative (BIMLI), conducted in partnership with JEEViKA […]
They endorse a dubious dietary supplement and unverified drug for diabetes management, while discrediting established medications by means of fabricated reviews. Advertisements from ‘The Care Lab’ claiming to cure diabetes are bogus, finds First Check. These advertisements, seen on popular Indian news websites, lead users to dubious webpages selling unscientific treatments. The website dcarelab.com primarily […]
Contrary to what social media influencers may claim, castor oil cannot dissolve tumours, cure arthritis or detox the liver; at best, it may provide short-term relief from constipation. A viral video on Facebook and YouTube claims that castor oil can not only prevent life-threatening diseases, but it can also help patients fully recover from them. […]
The country ranks second worldwide in sickle cell disease incidence, with 102,021 reported cases, particularly among certain tribal populations. Recently, India got its first indigenous hydroxyurea oral suspension for the treatment of sickle cell disease (SCD), a genetic blood disorder. Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited is expected to manufacture the drug at one per cent […]
Researchers caution against oversimplification as autophagy has been attributed tumour-suppressive as well as tumour-promoting functions. A viral video on YouTube (with 10K views at the time of writing this) claims that fasting can cure cancer, among many other ailments. The video, narrated in the Malayalam language, asserts that the practice of fasting, common in many […]