First Check Team - First Check

10
Jan

WHO 2024 report: Immunization saves 154 million lives, Noncommunicable Diseases surge

First Check Team / 2 days
0
3 min read

Geneva, Switzerland – In 2024, the WHO celebrated significant immunization achievements, saving 154 million lives, but warned that noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes remain a growing global challenge. “Today immunization is the single greatest contribution of any health intervention to ensuring that babies not only see their first birthdays but also […]

09
Jan

STUDY: China’s hearing loss cases set to reach 623 million by 2060

First Check Team / 3 days
0
3 min read

The number of people with hearing loss in China is projected to rise by 34.72%, from 462.88 million in 2015 to 623.60 million by 2060, driven by aging and socioeconomic factors. “The number with moderate-to-complete hearing loss will increase by 110.04%, from 115.14 million in 2015 to 241.84 million in 2060,” says a latest […]

09
Jan

FACT CHECK: Can cancer be treated without chemotherapy

First Check Team / 3 days
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Cancer can be cured without using chemotherapy FACT: The claim is not supported by scientific evidence An Instagram reel posted by @chikitsaguru and @healthknowledgeindia with over 2.7 lakh views features a conversation with an alleged former cancer patient advocating alternative approaches to cancer treatment. The interviewer asks the woman how she managed to […]

08
Jan

WHO monitors China’s rising respiratory illnesses, including HMPV, finds no unusual outbreaks

First Check Team / 4 days
0
3 min read

The World Health Organization (WHO) has said it is in contact with Chinese health officials and has not received reports of any unusual outbreak patterns, even as data from China shows a rise in acute respiratory infections, including human metapneumovirus (hMPV), in northern provinces in recent weeks. In its report, WHO has advised member states […]

07
Jan

Stay calm, no need to panic: Experts urge as HMPV cases trigger concerns in India

First Check Team / 5 days
0
5 min read

Experts, officials and ministers have urged people to remain calm, and not panic, as reports of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) confirmed cases in India triggered widespread concerns and questions about whether this was the start of another pandemic, reminiscent of COVID times. On January 6, panic gripped India after the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) […]

06
Jan

Two Bengaluru infants test HMPV positive, health ministry assures preparedness

First Check Team / 6 days
0
2 min read

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has detected two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka as part of its nationwide surveillance for respiratory viral diseases. The Union Health Ministry gas said it is closely monitoring the situation through established surveillance networks, while the World Health Organization (WHO) continues to provide timely updates on […]

04
Jan

India tracks China’s HMPV outbreak amid rising concerns, says no significant spike locally

First Check Team / 1 week
0
2 min read

India is closely monitoring respiratory and seasonal influenza cases after social media reports of a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory illness with flu-like symptoms, outbreak in China. India said it is in communication with international agencies to stay updated on developments. Director General of Health Services, Dr. Atul Goel, described HMPV as a respiratory virus […]

04
Jan

India records 9.1M dog bites annually, survey highlights vaccination gaps

First Check Team / 1 week
0
2 min read

A Lancet study funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research revealed 9.1 million annual dog bites in India and urged a One Health approach to eliminate dog-mediated human rabies by 2030. “Integrating human and animal surveillance, ensuring timely administration of the full course of post-exposure prophylaxis, and accelerating dog vaccination across the country are […]

03
Jan

FACT CHECK: Can traditional remedies like applying chilli, onion juice prevent rabies after a dog bite?

First Check Team / 1 week
0
6 min read

CLAIM: A viral video suggests traditional remedies can treat rabid dog bites. FACT: Experts confirm only medical interventions can prevent rabies. A video on social media says that local remedies can treat dog bites including bites by rabid dog “Friends, whether you live in a village, a city, or a town, you must have […]

02
Jan

In a hottest decade on record, 2024 was warmest, with 41 dangerous heat days: WMO

First Check Team / 1 week
0
3 min read

2024 was the warmest year on record, capping a decade of unprecedented heat driven by human activities, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has reported, warning that greenhouse gas levels continue to grow to record observed highs, “locking in even more heat for the future.” The WMO will publish the consolidated global temperature figure for […]

31
Dec

5 years after Covid outbreak, WHO calls on China to share data ‘to understand the origins’ of the pandemic

First Check Team / 2 weeks
0
2 min read

On December 31, 2019, the World Health Organization’s country office in China picked up a media statement from the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission’s website reporting cases of “viral pneumonia” in Wuhan. Five years later, the WHO has reiterated its call for China to share critical data and grant access to researchers to uncover the origins […]

30
Dec

Influenza vaccines are a lifesaver against severe flu, says WHO expert

First Check Team / 2 weeks
0
4 min read

The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted influenza vaccines as the most effective tool against severe illness and death, with nearly one billion doses administered globally each year. Dr. Shoshanna Goldin, from WHO’s World Health Emergencies Programme, emphasized the need to stay ahead of the constantly evolving virus during a recent broadcast, underscoring the critical […]

28
Dec

India exits WHO’s high-burden malaria list, aims for zero cases by 2030

First Check Team / 2 weeks
0
3 min read

India has officially exited the World Health Organization’s (WHO) high-burden to high-impact (HBHI) group for malaria, with the country aiming for zero cases by 2030, the World Malaria Report 2024 has revealed. India celebrated the achievement. “The WHO report recognized India’s advancements as a model for other nations aiming to combat malaria. With sustained efforts, […]

26
Dec

2024: India marks major milestone in eliminating Neglected Tropical Diseases

First Check Team / 2 weeks
0
2 min read

India achieved a significant milestone this year by eliminating neglected tropical disease, marking progress in the fight against conditions such as human African trypanosomiasis, leprosy, lymphatic filariasis, and trachoma. Meanwhile, Egypt declared itself malaria-free after a century-long battle, and Cabo Verde joined the list of malaria-free nations, showcasing global advancements in combating infectious diseases. In […]

26
Dec

WHO flags misinformation and disinformation as major threat to global health in 2024 review

First Check Team / 2 weeks
0
3 min read

Misinformation and disinformation are critical threats to global health, the World Health Organization (WHO) says in its 2024 review. The organization warns that inaccurate information about diseases, treatments, and vaccines not only undermines trust in science but also erodes public confidence in evidence-based health policies, posing a significant challenge to global health efforts. “During emergencies […]

25
Dec

Over 1 in 5 adults worldwide has a genital herpes infection

First Check Team / 3 weeks
0
3 min read

Around 846 million people aged between 15 and 49 are living with genital herpes infections – more than 1 in 5 of this age-group globally – according to new estimates released by World Health Organisation. In a statement, WHO said that at least one person each second – 42 million people annually – is […]

25
Dec

COVID toll so far: 7 million deaths, over 776 million cases, a surge in mental health issues

First Check Team / 3 weeks
0
3 min read

More than 776.8 million cases and 7 million deaths from COVID-19 have been recorded globally since the pandemic began in early 2020, according to the latest data released by WHO. While there are periodic waves of COVID-19 in some countries, SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, largely circulates without clear seasonality and continues to infect, […]

23
Dec

India’s air pollution problem is not just urban, rural areas also suffer: Dr Suganthi Jaganathan

First Check Team / 3 weeks
0
5 min read

A new study by the Karolinska Institute has revealed that long-term exposure to air pollution is a significant contributor to millions of deaths in India. The research, published in The Lancet Planetary Health, highlights the urgent need for stricter air quality regulations. It reveals that the entire population of India is exposed to PM2.5 […]

23
Dec

FACT CHECK: Can fasting for 3 days shield you from rabies after a dog bite?

First Check Team / 3 weeks
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Fasting for three days after a dog bite enables the body to produce antibodies against rabies. FACT: A 3-day fast cannot protect against rabies; only timely vaccination can prevent the deadly disease. If a dog bites you, you shouldn’t go for any vaccine and instead keep a fast for three days. The body […]

20
Dec

Social media platforms urged to share data to tackle science misinformation

First Check Team / 3 weeks
0
3 min read

Social media companies must prioritize the fight against science misinformation by offering free, non-commercial access to data for researchers studying its origins, spread, and effects, a report published by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommends. “Universities and research institutions should help connect researchers with social media companies to improve access to reliable […]

12
Dec

FACT CHECK: Can staying in 40°C water cause a 1kg weight loss?

First Check Team / 1 month
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Sitting in 40°C water can lead to 500g-3kg weight loss FACT: Medical experts say no evidence to support the claim A YouTube video by a person identifying himself as Dr Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury claims that in a temperature of 40°C, if a person sits in water with the water level rising up to […]

11
Dec

‘They’ll destroy me’: Techie’s last words ignite national debate on men’s justice

First Check Team / 1 month
0
3 min read

A 34-year-old tech professional, Atul Subhash, died by suicide at his Bengaluru residence, leaving behind a 24-page note in which he blamed his wife and her family for harassment. The incident has taken social media by storm, with many voicing concerns about perceived injustices against men. The victim, in a recorded video, expressed his anguish, […]

11
Dec

FACT CHECK: Cancer misinformation gets new lease of life, after Sidhu’s ‘Diet-Based Cure’ for cancer claims

First Check Team / 1 month
0
7 min read

Last month, former cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu made headlines, when he claimed that his wife, Navjot Kaur, overcame Stage 4 cancer in just 40 days through a simple dietary and lifestyle regimen. While healthcare professionals were quick to call Sidhu out for the dangerous misinformation, that could potentially take patients away from medically proven treatment […]

10
Dec

FACT CHECK: Did YesMadam fire ‘stressed’ employees, or was it a PR stunt?

First Check Team / 1 month
0
4 min read

YesMadam, an online beauty services platform, is facing a wave of criticism after an internal email surfaced, allegedly revealing that employees who reported high stress levels in a recent survey were fired. The email, which has gone viral on social media, has evoked mixed reactions and raised concerns about the company’s handling of employee […]

07
Dec

How just 1% weight change in Large Language Models can inject dangerous misinformation in healthcare

First Check Team / 1 month
0
3 min read

Large Language Models (LLMs) hold great promise for healthcare applications, but a new study published in Nature warns that even minor manipulations—affecting just 1% of a model’s weights—can introduce harmful misinformation, posing significant risks to patient safety. “In our study, we demonstrate that misinformation such as malicious associations can be effectively injected into pretrained […]

06
Dec

No, Himalayan salt is not healthier than iodized salt

First Check Team / 1 month
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Himalayan salt offers no significant health benefits compared to iodized salt FACT: No scientific evidence shows that Himalayan pink salt offers more health benefits than regular table salt A video posted on Instagram suggests that Himalayan pink salt is a superior alternative to regular table salt due to its mineral content. The video with […]

04
Dec

Health of India Summit 2024 tackles heart disease, cancer, and AI challenges

First Check Team / 1 month
0
5 min read

Experts discussed evolving challenges and solutions for India’s health sector, focusing on heart disease, cancer treatment, and health misinformation, at this year’s Health of India Summit held in New Delhi on December 3. Madhukar K. Bhagat, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, highlighted the pressing challenges in India’s healthcare sector, including […]

03
Dec

AI-fueled health misinformation, infectious diseases and natural remedy myths cause of concern: report

First Check Team / 1 month
0
3 min read

The “Health Misinformation Vectors in India” report, released at the Health of India Summit in Delhi, warns of AI-driven misinformation and the rise of infectious diseases like Marburg virus and Mpox, while highlighting a growing shift from evidence-based medicine to natural remedies influenced by local traditions. “Even on life threatening diseases like cancer, some of […]

02
Dec

Health of India Summit 2024 to Explore AI and Healthcare Innovations

First Check Team / 1 month
0
2 min read

The Health of India Summit 2024, a flagship event organized by First Check and DataLEADS, will take place on December 3 at the Shangri-La Hotel, Ashoka Road, New Delhi. The summit is set to gather a significant number of delegates, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, industry leaders, and experts, to engage in pivotal discussions on […]

01
Dec

UN report: Human rights key to ending AIDS by 2030

First Check Team / 1 month
0
3 min read

The world can end AIDS by 2030 if human rights are at the center of the effort, the Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) said in a statement on the occasion of the World Aids Day. Titled “Take the rights path to end AIDS,” the report outlines how stigma, discrimination, and punitive laws hinder […]

01
Dec

India mandates snakebite reporting amid 50,000 annual deaths

First Check Team / 1 month
0
3 min read

In a significant move to combat underreported snakebite cases, the Indian Ministry of Health has made it mandatory for all government and private healthcare facilities to report suspected and confirmed snakebite cases and deaths. The decision follows concerns about the underreporting of such incidents, which has hindered efforts to understand and address the problem. In […]

30
Nov

‘Dangerous form of misinformation’: More medical experts weigh in on Sidhu’s cancer cure claim

First Check Team / 1 month
0
3 min read

Cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu’s recent claim that his wife, Navjot Kaur Sidhu, overcame stage four cancer through a strict diet regimen has sparked controversy, with medical professionals cautioning that such statements risk spreading misinformation and offering false hope to patients battling the disease. First Check consulted leading medical experts including Dr. Sameer Kaul, Senior Consultant […]

28
Nov

4 million Afghans battle addiction amid worsening health crisis: WHO

First Check Team / 1 month
0
3 min read

The World Health Organization has sounded the alarm on Afghanistan’s worsening humanitarian crisis, calling it one of the most severe globally due to widespread food insecurity and a growing substance use epidemic affecting 4 million people. The warning follows a three-day visit by WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Dr. Hanan Balkhy, who engaged […]

26
Nov

Sidhu shares controversial diet plan for cancer recovery amid expert backlash

First Check Team / 2 months
0
6 min read

Former cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu on Monday sparked criticism from health experts after claiming on social media that dietary and lifestyle changes cured his wife Navjot Kaur’s cancer. Despite the backlash, he has now gone ahead and shared a detailed diet plan. According to Sidhu, his wife’s cancer treatment involved surgeries, chemotherapy, hormonal and targeted […]

25
Nov

FACT CHECK: Was Bill Gates indicted in Netherlands over COVID-19 vaccines

First Check Team / 2 months
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Bill Gates has been indicted in the Netherlands for lying to the public about COVID-19 vaccines FACT: Not true, a Dutch court has merely accepted jurisdiction to hear a civil case involving vaccine-related claims A recent Dutch court ruling that it has jurisdiction to hear civil claims against Bill Gates related to COVID-19 vaccines […]

25
Nov

COP29 highlights urgency of health action amid climate crisis

First Check Team / 2 months
0
4 min read

Health emerged as one of the major issues at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), which concluded in Baku, Azerbaijan, on November 22. Recognising the increasing risks that climate change poses to global health, the conference highlighted the importance of integrating health considerations into climate policies. A major highlight of COP29 was the establishment […]

23
Nov

FACT CHECK: Medical experts debunk Sidhu’s claim of curing his wife’s Stage-4 cancer through diet

First Check Team / 2 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Turmeric, neem water, apple cider vinegar, lemon water, and lifestyle changes can cure cancer, claims cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu FACT: Doctors debunk the claim, saying there is no medical evidence supporting dietary or lifestyle changes as a cure for cancer Former cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu claimed on Friday that his wife, Navjot Kaur, overcame […]

21
Nov

Survey of 21,000 Delhi-NCR residents finds every family battling pollution-related health problems

First Check Team / 2 months
0
3 min read

Around 75% of families in Delhi-NCR have reported at least one member suffering from respiratory problems due to toxic air quality, according to a survey conducted by LocalCircles, a community-based platform that connects people with local issues and enables them to share information, provide feedback, and engage with others on various topics. The survey, […]

21
Nov

Newborn Care Week: Some Baby Myths and Facts

First Check Team / 2 months
0
4 min read

As Newborn Care Week is observed annually from November 15 to November 21, doctors and fact-checkers use this time to debunk common myths about newborn care. As part of this week, World Children’s Day is observed globally on November 20. The day serves as a platform to foster global unity, raise awareness of children’s issues, […]

21
Nov

FACT CHECK: Are teflon-coated aluminum utensils harmful to health?

First Check Team / 2 months
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Teflon-coated aluminium utensils are not safe and should be discarded FACT: They are safe for everyday use when used under 500°F (260°C) temperatures An Instagram reel flagged by a First Check reader through our WhatsApp tipline, claims that the teflon-coated aluminium utensils are harmful to health and urges viewers to discard them. The […]

19
Nov

Vibrators or lipsticks? How India’s sex toys navigate legal gray areas

First Check Team / 2 months
0
3 min read

While there is no explicit legal provision in India barring the sale of sex toys, the lack of clear judicial guidelines has created a gray area, leaving businesses to navigate complex legal terrain. Companies often label sex toys as “massagers” to sidestep potential legal issues, but this practice raises concerns about consumer protection and could […]

19
Nov

STUDY: Drop the abbreviations in texting to build better connections

First Check Team / 2 months
0
3 min read

Next time you’re tempted to use shortcuts like “thanx” for “thanks,” “ttyl” for “talk to you later,” or “u” for “you,” think twice. A new study suggests that spelling out words instead of using abbreviations makes you appear more sincere and increases the likelihood of receiving better responses to your texts. According to new research […]

17
Nov

Antimicrobial resistance as urgent as climate action: WHO chief

First Check Team / 2 months
0
4 min read

The action on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is “equally as urgent as climate action,” Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said at the Fourth Global High-Level Ministerial Meeting on Antimicrobial Resistance which began Friday in Jeddah. “AMR doesn’t just threaten to make the medicines on which we depend less effective; it’s happening […]

14
Nov

STUDY: Quarter of world’s 828 million diabetes patients now in India

First Check Team / 2 months
0
4 min read

India is now home to over a quarter of the world’s diabetes cases, with 212 million adults affected, as global diabetes numbers reached 828 million—more than four times the count in 1990, according to a new analysis in The Lancet. India is followed by China with 148 million diabetes cases, and the USA (42 million), […]

13
Nov

US obesity rate doubles since 1990, hits 208m in 2021, to reach 260m by 2050

First Check Team / 2 months
0
2 min read

By 2050, the number of US children and teens with overweight or obesity is expected to reach 43.1 million (up by 6.74 million from 2021), and adults 213 million (an increase of 41.4 million), highlighting the urgent need for nationwide action to reverse these trends and address significant geographical and sex disparities, according to […]

12
Nov

Uneven vaccine access in India slows down immunisation for children

First Check Team / 2 months
0
3 min read

India has made exceptional advances in child immunisation, but differences in coverage across regions are holding back important goals, says a recent Lancet study. India ranked first in 2021 and second in 2023 for the highest absolute number of Zero Dose children globally and figures among the top 10 countries home to children missing […]

11
Nov

Trump’s second term: RFK Jr. to lead health policy overhaul amid expert warnings

First Check Team / 2 months
0
3 min read

As concerns rise about the implications of a second Trump administration on global health, experts caution that his return to office could be “among the most destructive” for public health, potentially undermining trust in critical areas such as vaccines and medicine. Lawrence Gostin, Director of the World Health Organization’s Center on Global Health Law, cautioned […]

09
Nov

Study: Demand for cannabis as pain reliever spurs calls for reliable YouTube content

First Check Team / 2 months
0
2 min read

As more people turn to cannabis for chronic pain relief, a new study reveals that only 22.7% of YouTube videos on the topic provide reliable, clinically accurate information. Researchers are calling for a verification process on the platform to prioritize accurate educational content, aiming to reduce misinformation and guide patients toward informed choices on cannabis […]

08
Nov

FACT CHECK: The brown Vs white egg conundrum

First Check Team / 2 months
0
2 min read

Claim: Brown eggs are much healthier than white eggs Fact: There is no difference between the nutritional value of a brown or white egg Eggs are an excellent source of high nutrition, since they provide all vitamins except Vitamin C. They also contain macronutrients such as lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins. Further, eggs are also […]

07
Nov

Report: Majority of adults view, trust and act on TikTok health content

First Check Team / 2 months
0
2 min read

Around 53% of TikTok users aged 18-29 say they trust health information on the app, with 19% following up with a doctor and 26% seeking mental health treatment based on content they’ve seen on the app, reveals a report by Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF). Mental health (66%) and weight loss (66%) were the most watched health […]

06
Nov

FACT CHECK: Which is safer and healthier- raw milk or pasteurized milk?

First Check Team / 2 months
0
4 min read

Should you be drinking raw milk over pasteurised milk? A social media user on X (formerly Twitter), claimed that raw or unpasteurised milk is a healthier alternative to pasteurised milk (milk that has been heated to a specific temperature for a pre-determined interval of time). Did you know this? Pasteurized milk is dangerous and should be […]

05
Nov

Early-life sugar restriction can protect against diabetes and hypertension later in life

First Check Team / 2 months
0
2 min read

Reducing sugar intake during the first 1,000 days after conception—from conception through age two—may lower a child’s risk of developing chronic illnesses in adulthood. a new study published in Science has found. Leveraging data from post-World War II sugar rationing in the UK, the findings highlight critical long-term health benefits from reduced sugar intake […]

04
Nov

The public health impact of gambling is large and increasing: Lancet

First Check Team / 2 months
0
5 min read

The Lancet Public Health Commission on gambling in a recent report has pointed out the prevalence of commercial gambling in over 80% of countries globally, with lower- and middle-income countries witnessing a particularly rapid growth in the activity. The gambling, the Commission warns, seriously undermines progress towards UN Sustainable Development Goals, with a “heavy […]

04
Nov

Report: Heat-related deaths among seniors rise 167% in 2023 vs. 1990s

First Check Team / 2 months
0
3 min read

In 2023, global heat-related deaths among people over 65 soared by an unprecedented 167% compared to the 1990s — well beyond the 65% rise anticipated without climate change, finds the Lancet Countdown 2024 Report. What is more, the number of health-threatening heat days added by climate change is higher in countries with a low […]

03
Nov

Report: Fossil fuel deaths drop 7% as global coal phase-out gains ground

First Check Team / 2 months
0
3 min read

Despite the severe health impacts of climate change, there are some reasons for cautious optimism. Deaths from fossil fuel-derived air pollution fell almost 7% from 2.25 million in 2016 to 2.09 million in 2021, with 59% of this decline due to efforts to reduce pollution from coal burning, demonstrating the life-saving potential of coal […]

02
Nov

Study: Political polarization a major threat to public health

First Check Team / 2 months
0
3 min read

There is growing evidence that political polarization poses a substantial risk to individual and collective well-being, says a new study published in the journal Nature. Political polarization, according to the study, refers to “a state in which the opinions, beliefs or interests of a group or society no longer range along a continuum but […]

01
Nov

2023: TB surpasses COVID-19 as leading global killer, India worst affected

First Check Team / 2 months
0
5 min read

In 2023, Tuberculosis (TB) reclaimed its position as the world’s leading cause of death, surpassing COVID-19, which had caused almost twice as many fatalities as HIV/AIDS during the previous three years, reveals the WHO’s Global Tuberculosis Report 2024. India with 26% TB cases, leads the list of 30 high-burden countries. Alongside Indonesia (10%), […]

30
Oct

Election results to affect patient, community health, health care delivery system in US: Medical journal

First Check Team / 2 months
0
2 min read

As the election date approaches in the USA, the outcome is expected to affect patient and community health, as well as the health care delivery system, in profound ways, a latest article in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) says. The journal identifies key health-related issues likely to influence voters, including […]

29
Oct

West Bengal extends ban on gutkha and pan masala for another year

First Check Team / 2 months
0
3 min read

The West Bengal government has renewed its ban on the manufacturing, storage, and sale of gutkha and pan masala products containing tobacco or nicotine for an additional year, effective November 7. This ban has been consistently extended annually since 2012. “The Commissioner of Food Safety of the state is empowered under Section 30 of the […]

27
Oct

Rising human cost of gambling: 449 million affected, 80 million with disorders

First Check Team / 3 months
0
2 min read

A shocking 448.7 million adults globally grapple with the personal, social, or health consequences of gambling, with around 80 million of them experiencing severe gambling disorders, according to a recent report by the Lancet Public Health Commission The report estimates that gambling disorder could affect 15·8% of the adults and 26·4% of the adolescents who […]

25
Oct

Antimicrobial resistance, health reform take centre stage at MSF conference in New Delhi

First Check Team / 3 months
0
3 min read

Health reform, resistance to antimicrobials, health disparities, and the impact of violence were top themes discussed at the MSF–Asia 2024 Conference at India Habitat Centre on October 25. The event brought together more than 200 researchers, academics, and patient representatives dedicated to advancing humanitarian medical innovation and research. Speaking at the conference, health experts […]

23
Oct

India: Government health expenditure rose from 1.13% to 1.84% of GDP between 2014-15 and 2021-22

First Check Team / 3 months
0
3 min read

Government spending on healthcare has seen a significant rise over the years, according to the National Health Accounts (NHA) estimates for the fiscal year 2021-22, released by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The National Health Accounts showed that government spending on health had increased from 1.13% of the GDP in 2014-15 to […]

22
Oct

Egypt eradicates malaria, a disease that dates back to the time of the Pharaohs

First Check Team / 3 months
0
3 min read

Since ancient times, malaria has plagued Egypt, impacting the health of its people for centuries.On Monday, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the country malaria-free. The WHO said the achievement followed nearly 100 years of dedicated efforts by the Egyptian government and its citizens to eradicate the disease. “Malaria is as old as Egyptian […]

21
Oct

Study: Childhood vaccinations in India have reduced antibiotic use

First Check Team / 3 months
0
2 min read

Childhood vaccinations in India can reduce disease burden and associated antibiotic use, in turn reducing the risk of antimicrobial resistance, says a new Lancet study. By 2019, India achieved 91% coverage of the DPT3 vaccine, which protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough, for children under two, leading to substantial reduction in the antibiotic […]

20
Oct

82% seniors seek health info online: poll

First Check Team / 3 months
0
2 min read

Around 82% of people over 50 look for health information on the internet, a National Poll on Healthy Aging conducted by the University of Michigan has revealed. The poll also found that 74% of people in this age-group have very little or no trust in health information if it were generated by artificial intelligence […]

19
Oct

Health is political, policies shaped by ideology of governments: Lancet

First Check Team / 3 months
0
2 min read

Health and health policy are shaped by the political ideology of governments, whether that means more money to invest in health systems or less regulation on health-harming products, Lancet, a peer-reviewed international medical journal, says in its latest comment. ‘Health is political. This is what many practitioners of public and clinical health believe,” argues […]

17
Oct

Global Parliamentarians Unite at Berlin Summit to Support WHO Pandemic Agreement

First Check Team / 3 months
0
3 min read

Parliamentarians from around the world gathered at the UNITE Global Summit in Berlin on Wednesday, to sign a statement supporting the World Health Organization Pandemic Agreement. The WHO Pandemic Agreement is aimed at addressing gaps that became apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic, and also looks at the threats posed by mpox and other disease outbreaks. […]

17
Oct

Study: Girls lead in social media use, boys more drawn to gaming

First Check Team / 3 months
0
3 min read

Adolescents are spending increasing amounts of time immersed in digital world – checking messages on X, tracking likes on Instagram, or scrolling through YouTube or TikTok, says a new report from the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) released on Wednesday in collaboration with the WHO Regional Office for Europe. However, the study […]

16
Oct

At current rate, ending poverty for half the world could take over a century

First Check Team / 3 months
0
3 min read

At today’s feeble pace, it could take more than a century to eliminate poverty as it is defined for nearly half the world – people who live on less than $6.85 per day, according to the World Bank’s new Poverty, Prosperity, and Planet Report. The report released in Washington on Tuesday offers the […]

15
Oct

FACT CHECK: Can cleaning a cowshed cure cancer, and stroking a cow’s back lower blood pressure?

First Check Team / 3 months
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Stroking a cow’s back lowers one’s required dosage of hypertension drugs. Further, cleaning a cowshed and lying down in it can even cure Cancer. FACT: There’s no scientific evidence to back the claim that cleaning a cowshed or stoking a cow will cure one’s cancer or lower one’s need for blood pressure medication. […]

15
Oct

17 disease outbreaks in 2024 warn of rising pandemic threat: report

First Check Team / 3 months
0
3 min read

The world has witnessed 17 outbreaks of dangerous diseases in 2024, each revealing critical weaknesses in pandemic prevention efforts and global preparedness, according to a new report by the Global Preparedness Monitoring Board (GPMB). The report, launched at the 15th World Health Summit in Berlin on Monday, outlined 15 key drivers of pandemic risk, categorized into […]

14
Oct

COVID-19 pushes 100M into extreme poverty, global economy loses $22 trillion

First Check Team / 3 months
0
2 min read

The global economy is projected to lose $22 trillion in output between 2020 and 2025 due to the pandemic’s impact, according to a new report by the Global Preparedness Monitoring Board (GPMB). The report, The Changing Face of Pandemic Risk, in its chapter “Social and Economic Equity” released today says COVID-19 caused close to […]

14
Oct

Tele MANAS launches mobile app and video consultation services

First Check Team / 3 months
0
4 min read

Marking its two-year anniversary on World Mental Health Day, October 10, the National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP) expanded its reach with the launch of the Tele MANAS mobile app and video consultation services, enhancing access to mental health support across the country. Over 11 crore people in India suffer from mental health disorders, with […]

3 COVID era conspiracy theories make a comeback after mpox

13
Oct

FACT CHECK: 3 COVID era conspiracies make a comeback with mpox

First Check Team / 3 months
0
6 min read

Ever since the World Health Organisation declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern on August 14, conspiracy theories have started circulating on social media just as they did during COVID-19 pandemic- from claims of Bill Gates being behind the spread of the infection and that this is another ‘plandemic,’ to claims that the […]

10
Oct

Drones revolutionize healthcare delivery in India, over 10,000 deliveries made in Telangana, Arunachal Pradesh

First Check Team / 3 months
0
4 min read

Healthcare delivery by drone is transforming access to medicines in India, with the “Medicine from the Sky” initiative successfully delivering over 10,000 medical products, according to a report by the World Economic Forum (WEF). The report also noted that over 650 drone flights have been completed, covering 15,000 kilometers in equivalent ground distance. In September […]

10
Oct

World Mental Health Day: WHO says 1 in 7 young people face mental health challenges

First Check Team / 3 months
0
3 min read

An estimated 1 in 7 children and adolescents aged 10 to 19 are affected by mental health conditions, with anxiety, depression, and behavioural disorders being the most common, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said on the World Mental Health Day. With one-third of mental health conditions emerging before the age of 14 and half […]

09
Oct

WHO declares India free from trachoma, a major cause of blindness globally

First Check Team / 3 months
0
4 min read

The World Health Organization, on Tuesday, recognized India for eliminating trachoma, one of the leading causes of blindness globally, as a public health issue, making it the third country in the South-East Asia region to achieve the milestone. “India’s elimination of trachoma as a public health problem is a testimony to the country’s commitment to alleviating the suffering that […]

07
Oct

How chest pain units near bridges and highways are saving lives in Karachi

First Check Team / 3 months
0
4 min read

Pakistan’s largest city, Karachi, has established stand-alone chest pain units (CPUs), strategically located near bridges and highways, that are saving lives, according to a report in The Lancet. The units extend beyond hospital confines, integrating into densely populated areas- financial districts, and crowded slums. They provide people experiencing acute chest pain access to timely diagnosis and […]

05
Oct

FDA raises minimum age for tobacco purchases to 21

First Check Team / 3 months
0
3 min read

Starting September 30, 2024, tobacco retailers will be required to request photo identification from anyone under 30 to verify their age, up from the previous cutoff of 27 The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has increased the minimum age for purchasing tobacco products from 18 to 21. This change applies to all […]

04
Oct

WHO launches global plan to tackle dengue as cases surge over 12.3 million this

First Check Team / 3 months
0
3 min read

As dengue cases surge across all six World Health Organization regions, with an estimated four billion people at risk globally, the WHO on Thursday launched the Global Strategic Preparedness, Readiness and Response Plan (SPRP) to tackle dengue and other Aedes-borne arboviruses Aedes is the scientific name of the mosquito that can transmit dengue, chikungunya, Zika, […]

03
Oct

Banning tobacco sales among young people could prevent 1.2 million lung cancer deaths

First Check Team / 3 months
0
4 min read

Preventing a generation from ever smoking could result in 1.2 million fewer lung cancer deaths globally, according to a study led by researchers from the University of Santiago de Compostela, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), and global collaborators published in The Lancet Public Health journal. The findings indicate that creating a so-called tobacco-free generation […]

03
Oct

Study: Smoking cut to 5% may add a year for men, 0.2 for women by 2050

First Check Team / 3 months
0
4 min read

Global life expectancy is projected to reach 78.3 years by 2050, but a reduction in smoking to 5% could add an extra year for men and 0.2 years for women, a study by the Global Burden of Disease, Injuries and Risk Factors (GBD) Tobacco Forecasting Collaborators reveals. The study, published in The Lancet Public Health journal, suggests […]

03
Oct

India reports 9.1 million animal bites every year

First Check Team / 3 months
0
2 min read

The study, however, noted “a substantial decline” in human rabies deaths over the past two decades, and called for elimination of dog-mediated human rabies by 2030. India experiences 9.1 million animal bites every year, with dogs accounting for 76.8% of incidents last year, a survey has revealed. The survey was carried out across 78,807 […]

30
Sep

FACT CHECK: Did Kamala Harris admit that COVID was a lab grown virus?

First Check Team / 3 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM Kamala Harris admitted that the COVID virus originated in a lab FACT There is no conclusive evidence to suggest that the pandemic was the result of a lab leak with even WHO saying that “a laboratory origin of the pandemic was considered to be extremely unlikely.” The US presidential debate on September […]

30
Sep

Study: Conversion practices linked to higher depression, PTSD in LGBTQ+ adults

First Check Team / 3 months
0
3 min read

People identifying as LGBTQ+ who have undergone conversion therapy are more likely to experience poor mental health, according to a study published in The Lancet Psychiatry journal. Conversion practice is a formal, structured attempt to alter a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. It often involves psychological, behavioural, physical, and faith-based practices. […]

28
Sep

World Rabies Day: India accounts for 36% of 60,000 annual deaths from rabies

First Check Team / 4 months
0
3 min read

Every year, rabies claims more than 60,000 lives globally, with India alone accounting for nearly 36 percent of those deaths. Despite being entirely preventable, millions remain at risk. On the World Rabies Day, observed on September 28 in honor of Louis Pasteur, a UNDP report said, inadequate public awareness, low vaccination coverage for dogs, and […]

27
Sep

RFK Jr: ‘A sick child is the USA’s most valuable asset’ at Trump ally’s event

First Check Team / 4 months
0
3 min read

The US healthcare system is “an existential threat to our country,” Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Monday told members of a congressional roundtable on nutrition and the prevalence of chronic illness. The former Democrat served as a headliner for a four-hour roundtable presentation. Moderated by Senator Ron Johnson, a hard-right Republican from Wisconsin, the event was titled […]

26
Sep

Sex education isn’t cause of promiscuity, irresponsible behaviour: Supreme Court

First Check Team / 4 months
0
5 min read

Research has shown that sex education doesn’t encourage promiscuity and irresponsible behaviour “but actually delays the onset of sexual activity and promotes safer practices among those who are sexually active,” the Supreme Court of India said on Monday. “One prevalent misconception is that sex education encourages promiscuity and irresponsible behaviour among youth. Critics often argue […]

25
Sep

FACT CHECK: Should you tie and suck a snake bite, as shown in movies?

First Check Team / 4 months
0
3 min read

CLAIM If bitten by a snake, tie off that part, cut the wound, and suck the venom out as shown in movies. Local traditional medicine can also help. FACT World Health Organization cautions against these methods, saying it doesn’t help in the real world and can even prove dangerous. A tourniquet applied too tight […]

25
Sep

Mental health surpasses cancer as top global concern, including India

First Check Team / 4 months
0
3 min read

Mental health has emerged as the leading health concern worldwide, surpassing cancer in significance, according to a Ipsos survey that included India. Ipsos is a multinational market research and consulting firm with headquarters in Paris, France. The survey, which covers 31-countries, was conducted by Ipsos on its Global Advisor online platform and, in India, on […]

23
Sep

EXPLAINER: What is the Quad Cancer Moonshot to which India pledged $7.5 million?

First Check Team / 4 months
0
5 min read

During the Quad Cancer Moonshot event hosted by President Biden on the sidelines of the Quad Leaders’ Summit in Wilmington, Delaware on September 22, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a $7.5 million grant for cancer testing, screening, and diagnostics in the Indo-Pacific region. This initiative supports the US Cancer Moonshot, championed by President Biden and […]

23
Sep

Air pollution, rising temperatures fuel global increase in stroke burden

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

Air pollution, high temperatures, and metabolic risk factors are driving global increases in stroke, with latest figures estimating 12 million cases and over 7 million deaths from stroke each year, a new analysis from the Global Burden of Disease, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) has revealed. Although stroke is highly preventable and treatable, the […]

20
Sep

Fact-check: Vitamin C can’t ward off the flu

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

Vitamin C has long been of interest to medical experts and researchers for its role in supporting the immune system and its potential in preventing and treating infections. As the cold and flu season approaches, many individuals arm themselves with a familiar defense: pills, powders, and various forms of vitamin C. Does vitamin C actually […]

17
Sep

Adults over 60 are the fastest-growing demographic across the world

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

A World Bank report says demographic transformations are reshaping the world, with the global population expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050 Adults over 60 are the fastest-growing demographic across the world, says the new World Bank’s report. The report says demographic transformations are reshaping the world, with the global population expected […]

16
Sep

India, Pakistan, Bangladesh to see most deaths from antibiotic resistance by 2050

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

Deaths from Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) will also be high in other parts of southern and eastern Asia and sub-Saharan Africa Future deaths from antibiotic-resistant infections will be highest in South Asia – which includes countries such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh – where a total of 11.8 million fatalities are forecast between 2025 and […]

16
Sep

Antibiotic resistance could cause 39 million deaths globally by 2050

First Check Team / 4 months
0
3 min read

Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria or other pathogens change in ways that they become resistant to antimicrobials More than 39 million people around the world could die from antibiotic-resistant infections over the next 25 years, a study published in The Lancet has warned. The research, conducted by the Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance […]

16
Sep

WHO pledges 3.6 million vaccines for mpox, Japan tops contributions

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

The WHO declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) on August 14, 2024, following an upsurge of the infection in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and neighbouring countries The World Health Organization has announced a global pledge of over 3.6 million vaccine doses to combat mpox in the affected countries, with […]

15
Sep

Digital health and community drives cut mental health risks: study

First Check Team / 4 months
0
3 min read

“Our research marks a significant milestone in mental health care,” said Prof Pallab Maulik, Director of Research and Program Director (Mental Health) at The George Institute India A combination of digital healthcare and community-based campaigns can significantly reduce the risk of depression, anxiety, and self-harm in rural India, a global study by the George […]

14
Sep

Climate change trumps political uncertainty in priorities for global executives: report

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

85% of executives increased their investments in sustainability so far this year, up from 75% in 2023 Climate change remains a top priority for global C-suite executives, surpassing concerns such as political uncertainty, talent competition, and evolving regulatory environments, a new Deloitte report has revealed. The report highlighted that 85% of executives have increased their […]

13
Sep

‘Mystery fever’: Death toll in Gujarat’s Kutch district rises to 16

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

Tests so far have ruled out diseases such as H1N1, swine flu, Crimean-Congo fever, malaria, and dengue-leaving experts wondering what the new mysterious fever is. The toll from what is being called a ‘mystery fever,’ affecting seven villages in Lakhpat and Abdasa in Gujarat’s Kutch district, has risen to 16 over the past nine […]

12
Sep

Senior citizens 70 and older to get up to Rs 5 lakh in free health insurance coverage

First Check Team / 4 months
0
3 min read

The families will get an additional top-up cover up to Rs 5 lakh per year for themselves, which they do not have to share with the other members of the family who are below the age of 70 years The Indian government has approved health coverage for everyone aged 70 and above under the […]

12
Sep

Student suicides soar in India as exam pressure takes a deadly toll

First Check Team / 4 months
0
4 min read

A Lancet study highlights the “enormous competition to gain admission into colleges and the media hype around the results,” as a contributing factor to student suicides. The rising number of students who die by suicide in India have raised serious concerns about mental health and academic pressure- official records show that close to 20% […]

11
Sep

India’s tele-mental health centres received 1.36 million calls since 2022 launch

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

India, with the highest suicide rate globally, saw 171,000 suicides in 2022 India’s National Tele-Mental Health Programme has received over 1.36 million calls on its Tele-MANAS toll-free helpline, India’s Ministry of Health said on World Suicide Prevention Day. Launched by the government in October 2022, the Tele-MANAS initiative, part of the District Mental Health […]

11
Sep

Australia proposes social media ban for kids to ‘have a childhood’

First Check Team / 4 months
0
4 min read

The federal legislation, which would enforce a minimum age for social media use, is expected to be introduced at the end of this year The Australian federal government on Tuesday said that it will introduce a legislation that bans children from accessing social media at the end this year. The government has however, not […]

11
Sep

Medical conditions are major suicide triggers, says new study

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

“The higher the disability burden due to medical morbidity, the higher the risk of suicide,” findings reveal Medical conditions significantly increase suicide risk among people without mental disorders, says a study by The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). In a nationwide survey of 6,635,857 individuals from Denmark, the journal found that “most medical conditions […]

10
Sep

FACT CHECK: False claims linking mpox to COVID-19 gain traction

First Check Team / 4 months
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Mpox is a side effect of COVID-19 vaccines FACT: There is no link between COVID-19 vaccine use and mpox infections As a new highly contagious strain of mpox spreads globally and begins affecting children even under 25, misinformation reminiscent of the COVID-19 era is spreading across different social media platforms. The most […]

10
Sep

India confirms its first mpox infection, not linked to African strain

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

Government says the case not part of the current public health emergency, no immediate risk to public India on Monday confirmed its first case of mpox, after the World Health Organization declared the infection a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) on August 14. However, the health ministry clarified that the case is […]

09
Sep

8.1 million premature deaths annually due to air pollution: WMO

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

India, Pakistan among key global hotspots for particulate matter pollution Air pollution has emerged as the second leading risk factor for deaths worldwide, according to fourth annual Air Quality and Climate Bulletin of the World Meteorological Organization’s (WMO). The report released on September 7, the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, […]

09
Sep

Study: 90% of corporate India skips check-ups amid sedentary lifestyles

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

As Indians spend more than a third of their lives working, a new study says growing health concerns are linked to corporate lifestyles The “Health Report of Corporate India 2023,” conducted by Insurtech company Plum, reveals that sedentary work habits, the spread of illness, and workplace-related stress are major issues affecting employees. The report […]

07
Sep

India faces largest Chandipura Virus outbreak in two decades

First Check Team / 4 months
0
3 min read

Between early June to August 15, the Indian health ministry reported 245 encephalitis cases, including 64 confirmed Chandipura virus infections and 82 deaths India is currently facing the largest outbreak of Chandipura virus (CHPV) infection in two decades, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Between early June and August 15, there have been […]

06
Sep

India leads the world in plastic pollution hotspots

First Check Team / 4 months
0
3 min read

Estimated global data for 2020 show that India was the worst polluting country with 9.3 million tonnes of plastic waste emissions-around a fifth of the world total A study from the University of Leeds, published in Nature, has identified new hotspots of plastic pollution, with India emerging as the largest contributor, followed by Nigeria and Indonesia. […]

05
Sep

Leading medical journal calls for mandatory CCTV in all hospitals across India after rape and murder of a doctor

Riyaz Wani / 4 months
0
3 min read

The piece in the Lancet said there is need for standardized protocols and comprehensive training for hospital staff to effectively recognize and respond to violence against women After the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, an article in the Lancet has called […]

04
Sep

FACT CHECK: No, Mpox is not ‘Money Pox,’ it is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus

First Check Team / 4 months
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Mpox is ‘Money Pox,’ a hoax used to get people to spend on vaccines FACT: Mpox is a viral illness cased by the monkeypox virus Is mpox a hoax being peddled by a pharma lobby, to loot people in the name of vaccines? Well that is exactly what this video by a Dr Biswaroop […]

04
Sep

Rising mpox cases test Pakistan’s fragile healthcare system

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

A report in The Lancet warns that insufficient resources are worsening the crisis Healthcare experts in Pakistan have voiced concern over the country’s “preparedness for a possible mpox outbreak,” following 11 confirmed cases and one death since the disease emerged in April, according to a report in The Lancet. Writing in the medical journal, the […]

04
Sep

India among nations with declining road traffic death rates

First Check Team / 4 months
0
1 min read

Between 2010 and 2021, road traffic fatalities fell in Bhutan, India, Indonesia, Maldives, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Timor-Leste India had an estimated 15.4 road traffic deaths per 100,000 population in 2021, marginally higher than the global average of 15, according to the WHO South-East Asia Regional status report on road safety. However, the rate of such deaths […]

04
Sep

FACT CHECK: Is WHO suggesting lockdowns to tide over rising mpox cases, and is India preparing for one too?

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

CLAIM: The World Health Organization is imposing or recommending the lockdowns to address the rising mpox cases. India is among countries preparing for a lockdown FACT CHECK: WHO has debunked the rumours, saying it has neither the authority nor any plan to recommend lockdowns and that the disease can be controlled by “ensuring surveillance, good […]

03
Sep

Condom use falls among European teens, WHO sounds alarm

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

A new WHO report shows the rate of condom use has decreased from 70% to 61% for boys and from 63% to 57% for girls between 2014 and 2022 Condom use among European teens has dropped sharply in recent years, a trend that the World Health Organization (WHO) has described as alarming. A new report from […]

02
Sep

UNICEF, allies roll out plan to combat mpox outbreak with new vaccine pacts

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

UNICEF will set up conditional supply agreements with vaccine manufacturers to ensure prompt purchase and delivery of vaccines in response to rising mpox cases, the agency said on Monday. Since the beginning of this year, more than 18,000 suspected cases of mpox, including 629 deaths, have been reported in Congo which is at the epicentre […]

02
Sep

WHO calls for urgent review of mpox tests amid surge

First Check Team / 4 months
0
3 min read

Congo emerges as the global epicenter of the epidemic, with over 16,000 reported cases and over 500 deaths The World Health Organization has called for an emergency review of mpox testing in response to rising cases worldwide, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) alone reporting 1000 more suspected cases this week. Congo […]

30
Aug

Important to characterise long COVID in children: Study

First Check Team / 4 months
0
3 min read

A recent study published in JAMA identifies common prolonged symptoms experienced by children after SARS-CoV-2 infection and how these symptoms differ by age. Most research on long COVID or postacute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) has focused on adults, with less known about this complex condition in children. A recent study published in JAMA, a […]

29
Aug

‘Integrate assistive technology into primary healthcare, universal health coverage,’ says WHO chief

First Check Team / 5 months
0
3 min read

The “Equipped for equity” campaign during the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games advocates for concerted global action to improve access to these essential health products. The World Health Organization (WHO) and International Paralympic Committee (IPC) join forces to highlight the transformative impact of assistive technology on sports during the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. The “Equipped for equity” […]

27
Aug

Continued need to improve AI tools in healthcare: Study

First Check Team / 5 months
0
4 min read

National Institutes of Health researchers find AI tools significantly less accurate when analysing summaries written by patients about their own health. While artificial intelligence (AI) tools can make accurate diagnoses from textbook-like descriptions of genetic diseases, the tools are significantly less accurate when analysing summaries written by patients about their own health, according to researchers […]

21
Aug

Fact-check: Mpox is not limited to gays, bisexuals; anyone can get it

First Check Team / 5 months
0
3 min read

The zoonotic disease is typically found in areas close to tropical rainforests where the virus-carrying animals live. Social media is abuzz with misleading claims about mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) and sexuality. Posts about how “nearly all cases are gay men and bisexuals” and “they should change their behaviour and get vaccinated” have no scientific […]

16
Aug

WHO declares health emergency as Mpox surges in Africa

First Check Team / 5 months
0
2 min read

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus declared the rise in mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and other African countries as a public health emergency of international concern. This decision was based on advice from an independent committee, which warned that the mpox outbreak could spread further within and beyond Africa.

14
Aug

‘Getting an updated COVID-19 vaccine remains an extremely effective tool’: Study

First Check Team / 5 months
0
3 min read

Vaccines saved 1.6 million lives in Europe; COVID death toll could have reached four million without immunisation, according to new WHO study. From the time of their introduction in December 2020 through to March 2023, COVID-19 vaccines reduced deaths due to the pandemic by at least 59 per cent, saving more than 1.6 million lives in the WHO […]

12
Aug

Decline in vulture population causes half a million premature human deaths: Study

First Check Team / 5 months
0
3 min read

Drastic reduction of these vital scavengers has allowed deadly bacteria and infections to spread unchecked, says the study published in the American Economic Association journal. Vultures once thrived across India, with a population possibly exceeding fifty million. Today, the three primary species are critically endangered, having declined by more than 95 per cent. This drastic […]

05
Aug

India commits US$ 85m to WHO for strengthening traditional medicine research

First Check Team / 5 months
0
3 min read

The 10-year financial contribution to support a cross-sectoral programme of work by providing data and evidence on traditional medicine policies, practice, products, and public use. The Government of India committed US$ 85 million over 10 years (2022–2032) to support the programming of the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre at a recent ceremony in Geneva. The […]

01
Aug

World Breastfeeding Week: 820,000 children can be saved each year

First Check Team / 5 months
0
3 min read

Breastfeeding reduces the burden of childhood illness, and the risk of certain types of cancers and noncommunicable diseases for mothers. Contrary to popular perceptions, breastfeeding is on the rise globally. Over the past 12 years, the number of infants under six months of age who are exclusively breastfed worldwide has increased by more than 10 […]

31
Jul

14 modifiable risk factors key to preventing dementia: Study

First Check Team / 5 months
0
3 min read

As per the latest report from the 2024 Lancet Commission, vision loss, high cholesterol, less education and social isolation are some of the risk factors for developing dementia. Nearly half of dementia cases can be prevented or delayed by addressing 14 modifiable risk factors starting in childhood, as per the latest report from the 2024 […]

30
Jul

19 million adolescent girls experience intimate partner violence: WHO

First Check Team / 6 months
0
3 min read

This needs to be taken more seriously as a public health issue, with focus on prevention and targeted support. For the first time, the World Health Organization (WHO) has published a detailed analysis of the prevalence of physical and/or sexual partner violence experienced by 15–19-year-old girls who have been in intimate relationships. Nearly a quarter […]

29
Jul

World Hepatitis Day: Taking inspiration from Egypt’s hepatitis C triumph

First Check Team / 6 months
0
3 min read

Egypt is the first country to achieve the gold tier status on the path to elimination of hepatitis C as per WHO criteria. China, India and Pakistan are well poised to follow suit. World Hepatitis Day is observed every year on 28 July, as an opportunity to reflect on the ongoing fight against hepatitis, and […]

26
Jul

India’s Union Budget 2024: Hits and misses for health sector

First Check Team / 6 months
0
3 min read

Initiatives focused on health infrastructure development, digital health and mental health face reductions, even as overall budgetary allocation for the Union Health Ministry marks a 12.59 per cent increase. India’s Union Budget for 2024-25, presented earlier this week, proposed notable budgetary allocations for healthcare programmes, along with tax exemptions for critical drugs and medical devices. […]

24
Jul

The conundrum of COVID deaths: Claims and counterclaims

First Check Team / 6 months
0
3 min read

While a recent study found that India recorded an estimated 11.9 lakh excess COVID-19 deaths in 2020, eight times more than the official figure, the Indian government questioned the study’s flawed methodology and misleading findings. A recent study claimed that large and unequal life expectancy declines were recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic in India in […]

23
Jul

The impact of climate change on lung cancer in Asia: The Lancet

First Check Team / 6 months
0
3 min read

Environmental and lifestyle factors lead to early onset of lung cancer. In India, lung cancer typically manifests about a decade earlier than in Western countries. The intersection of climate change and lung cancer in Asia presents an urgent and complex public health challenge that demands urgent action. As climate change continues to amplify the burden […]

22
Jul

Polio virus detected in Gaza, WHO warns of global risk

First Check Team / 6 months
0
2 min read

The origin of the virus, isolated from sewage samples in two sub-regions within Gaza, is currently being investigated. Variant type 2 poliovirus (VDPV) has been isolated from sewage samples in Gaza, as per the Global Polio Eradication Initiative’s official statement released on 19 July, 2024. The World Health Organization (WHO) considers there to be a […]

19
Jul

Addressing the threat to global public health

First Check Team / 6 months
0
2 min read

Experts consider the impact of upcoming US election results and the role of social media platforms in the dissemination of health information. As the presidential election approaches in the United States, experts underscore how the results will impact the health and human rights of millions of people across the globe. A recent article in Health and […]

18
Jul

Salmonella outbreak in the US linked to cucumbers

First Check Team / 6 months
0
2 min read

Untreated canal water used by a cucumber grower was a likely source of the outbreak affecting more than 449 people, according to the CDC and FDA. After more than 449 people were diagnosed with salmonella infection in the United States, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) […]

15
Jul

Decoding the link between formal education & Alzheimer’s disease

First Check Team / 6 months
0
4 min read

Researchers suggest that formal education may help sustain cognitive function in mid- and late life, and delay the development of symptoms, according to 2024 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report. People with more years of formal education are at lower risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias than those with fewer years of formal […]

15
Jul

5:2 intermittent fasting effective for managing early type 2 diabetes: Study

First Check Team / 6 months
0
3 min read

Overweight or obese Chinese adults with early type 2 diabetes found that 5:2 MR could improve glycemic outcomes, weight loss in the short term as compared to prescription drugs. An intermittent fasting plan consisting of two non-consecutive fasting days and five days of habitual intake per week and meal replacement diet (5:2 MR) could provide […]

12
Jul

FDA updates guidelines to combat misinformation on medical devices, drugs

First Check Team / 6 months
0
3 min read

The revised draft guidance sets out a policy to support health companies to address internet-based misinformation with tailored responsive communication. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has updated its official guidelines to address misinformation about medical devices and drugs spread by celebrities and online influencers. The new draft guidance, titled “Addressing Misinformation About Medical […]

11
Jul

LASA drugs pose significant public health threat in India: The Lancet

First Check Team / 6 months
0
3 min read

The plethora of look-alike, sound-alike drugs are yet to catch the attention of the media or the medical community. When a renowned academic journal calls out the “poor drug regulation in India” vis-à-vis the plethora of look-alike, sound-alike (LASA) drugs that are yet to catch the attention of the media or the medical community, it is […]

09
Jul

WHO guideline for 750 million tobacco users seeking to quit

First Check Team / 6 months
0
2 min read

The first-ever clinical treatment guideline for tobacco cessation in adults recommends behavioural support delivered by healthcare providers, digital cessation interventions, pharmacological treatments. Tobacco kills more than eight million people per year and imposes a significant economic burden throughout the world. Globally, there are 1.25 billion people who use tobacco, of which over 60 per cent – more […]

05
Jul

‘Concerning to see pseudo-experts encouraging the population to forgo sunscreen’

First Check Team / 6 months
0
2 min read

The Ordre des chimistes du Québeche, a regulatory body in Quebec in Canada, recently issued a strong warning against the worrying social media trend. By First Check Team As temperatures rise globally, so does the misinformation about sunscreen on social media platforms. The Ordre des chimistes du Québeche, a regulatory body in Quebec in Canada, […]

04
Jul

Cigarette-style warnings on social media risks to protect children: US surgeon general

First Check Team / 6 months
0
2 min read

Dr Vivek Murthy slammed social networks for emerging as an “important contributor” to the “mental health crisis” plaguing the youth of America. There is an association between social media use and mental health harms for adolescents, wrote Dr Vivek Murthy, the US surgeon general, in an op-ed published in the New York Times last month. […]

03
Jul

Palestine’s oral health crisis amid conflict, poverty: Study

First Check Team / 6 months
0
2 min read

Oral diseases are severely under-addressed globally, despite their prevalence and link to chronic illnesses. Political conflict, poverty, and lack of access to clean water and dental care have greatly impacted oral health in Palestine. In 2021, oral diseases in Palestine ranked just behind COVID-19 and upper respiratory infections in terms of morbidity. The 2021 Global […]

27
Jun

Study reveals alarming rise in global physical inactivity

First Check Team / 7 months
0
2 min read

A recent study found that about one-third (31%) of adults worldwide, around 1.8 billion people, did not get enough exercise in 2022. The highest inactivity rates were in the high-income Asia Pacific (48%) and South Asia (45%). In other regions, inactivity rates ranged from 28% in wealthy Western countries to 14% in Oceania.

26
Jun

WHO report highlights alcohol and drug impact

First Check Team / 7 months
0
2 min read

The recent WHO report emphasises urgent global action to reduce the severe impact of alcohol and drug use, focusing on high mortality rates and limited treatment accessibility.

24
Jun

Improved cookstoves reduce low birth weight in rural Bangladesh: A Lancet study

First Check Team / 7 months
0
2 min read

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21
Jun

Early intervention in gestational diabetes key to better health: Study

First Check Team / 7 months
0
3 min read

The latest Lancet Series calls for the urgent need to adopt a holistic life-course approach in how we manage the disease. Managing gestational diabetes, aka gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), the most common medical pregnancy complication worldwide, early in pregnancy can prevent complications and improve long-term health outcomes for mothers and babies. Speaking at the ongoing American Diabetes […]

18
Jun

Optimal vitamin D intake for disease prevention: Guideline

First Check Team / 7 months
0
2 min read

Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline focuses on supplementation guidance for children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with pre-diabetes. The Endocrine Society released its latest clinical practice guideline, earlier this month, on the use of vitamin D for the prevention of disease. ‘Vitamin D for the Prevention of Disease: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline’ […]

18
Jun

US military’s anti-vax campaign targeted Muslims to undermine China during pandemic: Report

First Check Team / 7 months
0
3 min read

A key part of the strategy was to amplify the disputed contention that, because vaccines sometimes contain pork gelatin, China’s shots could be considered forbidden under Islamic law, reveals Reuters investigation. The fact that vaccine misinformation thrived during the COVID-19 pandemic is well established. The latest investigation by the Reuters news agency reveals how the […]

13
Jun

South Asian countries can support PPPs to introduce new antibiotics responsibly

First Check Team / 7 months
0
6 min read

Given that AMR poses a significant health burden, particularly among vulnerable populations, and those with limited access to quality healthcare, India has implemented several important strategies to combat the challenge. India faced a severe health crisis as antimicrobial resistance (AMR) claimed 297,036 lives, with 1.04 million deaths associated with it, in 2019. Bacterial infections and […]

11
Jun

High night-time temperatures increase stroke risk in older women: Study

First Check Team / 7 months
0
3 min read

Researchers from Helmholtz Munich and the Augsburg University Hospital in Germany found that the risk of stroke among older women is seven per cent higher on warm nights. As the march of climate change continues, notwithstanding the many climate accords aimed at arresting the progress of global warming, a recent study has added to the […]

06
Jun

Climate change poses significant health challenges for kids, elders, pregnant women: Study

First Check Team / 7 months
0
3 min read

Nearly 2,50,000 additional deaths per year are estimated from malnutrition, malaria, diarrhoea, and heat stress due to climate change between 2030 and 2050. As 2023 was the warmest year on record in over 170 years, with numerous climate emergencies like wildfires, cyclones, flooding, and extreme heat, serious health complications are arising for pregnant women, newborns, […]

05
Jun

WHO Member States set new pandemic treaty deadline

First Check Team / 7 months
0
3 min read

Representatives from the WHO’s 194 member countries agreed on a set of critical amendments to the International Health Regulations of 2005. The World Health Organization (WHO) announced recently that negotiations for a pandemic accord aimed at preventing a repeat of the COVID-19 challenges are expected to conclude within the next year. During the annual meeting […]

31
May

World No Tobacco Day 2024 Crossword!

First Check Team / 8 months
0
1 min read

Dive into the clues and fill in the squares with terms related to smoking. Whether you’re a puzzle pro or just getting started, this crossword is a fun and engaging way to learn more about the harmful effects of smoking. Want more crossword challenges in the future? Stay tuned and keep an eye on this […]

29
May

Vaccination averted 154 million deaths in 50 years: Study

First Check Team / 8 months
0
2 min read

Vaccination accounted for 40 per cent of the observed decline in global infant mortality, 52 per cent in the African region, according to the WHO-funded study. Since 1974, vaccination has averted 154 million deaths, including 146 million children younger than five years, of which 101 million were infants younger than one year of age, according […]

27
May

7,50,000 AMR-related deaths can be prevented annually: The Lancet

First Check Team / 8 months
0
3 min read

Enhanced hand hygiene, equipment sterilisation, safe water, effective sanitation, and paediatric vaccinations are key strategies highlighted in the latest modelling analysis. Improving and expanding existing methods to prevent infections, such as hand hygiene, sterilisation of equipment in healthcare facilities, safe drinking water, effective sanitation and use of paediatric vaccines, could prevent over 750,000 deaths associated […]

24
May

Curable sexually transmitted infections account for over one million daily cases: WHO

First Check Team / 8 months
0
3 min read

In 2022, there were 2,30,000 syphilis-related deaths and 6,30,000 HIV-related deaths, of which 13 per cent were children under the age of 15 years. Four curable sexually transmitted infections – syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia and trichomoniasis – account for over one million cases daily, according to a WHO report released this week. The report, ‘Implementing the […]

22
May

Psychological inoculation works against health misinformation: JAMA

First Check Team / 8 months
0
3 min read

Just as the body benefits from being exposed to low doses of an attenuated virus to generate an effective immune response, research finds that it works the same way with the mind. Although debunking misinformation is important, the approach faces many challenges. For example, once people are exposed to misinformation, they often rely on false […]

20
May

17 steps to combat obesity and diabetes: ICMR-NIN

First Check Team / 8 months
0
4 min read

The Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN) — the country’s apex nutrition authority — recently updated its dietary guidelines for Indians. The guidelines, released this month after a 13-year hiatus, recommend 17 steps to meet the requirements of a balanced diet and to prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like obesity and diabetes.

17
May

Infections associated with health care delivery represent a preventable tragedy: WHO

First Check Team / 8 months
0
2 min read

Publishes the first global guidelines to prevent the occurrence of bloodstream infections and other infections associated with the use of intravascular catheters. Earlier this month, the World Health Organization (WHO) published the first global guidelines to prevent the occurrence of bloodstream infections and other infections associated with the use of intravascular catheters. Up to 70 […]

15
May

Wearing makeup during exercise not healthy for skin: Study

First Check Team / 8 months
0
2 min read

In the age of social media trends such as GRWM for Gym/Workout, and hashtags like #gymglam #gymglow, applying makeup before heading to the gym is a common practice. What’s more, even cosmetic companies advertise their products as lasting for the entire day, despite the sweat. However, an interesting study published earlier this year in […]

15
May

High BP affects almost 50% of American women: FDA

First Check Team / 8 months
0
2 min read

Although one may not feel sick at first, if the condition isn’t treated on time, it can lead to grave consequences, and even death. High blood pressure (BP) or hypertension is often called a “silent killer” because you can have it and not know it. It is a serious disease that affects almost half of […]

13
May

Fides: WHO launches new initiative to combat health misinformation

First Check Team / 8 months
0
2 min read

The aim is to build a network of healthcare influencers to counteract the spread of health-related misinformation on social media. The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a noteworthy initiative to combat health misinformation. Fides aims to build a network of healthcare influencers to counteract the spread of health-related misinformation on social media, thereby supporting […]

10
May

Malaria vaccine saves two million kids : WHO 2023 Results Report

First Check Team / 8 months
0
3 min read

The WHO’s 2023 Results Report highlights the progress made in global health, particularly the malaria vaccine’s impact, funding strategies, accomplishments, and ongoing challenges in fighting diseases worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) released its 2023 Results Report, marking significant strides in global health advancement. Among the standout achievements is the impact of the RTS,S/AS01 malaria […]

09
May

Red Line Campaign: Spotlight on self-medication risks

First Check Team / 8 months
0
2 min read

The awareness campaign by the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare educates the public about the dangers of antimicrobial resistance, caused by the overuse of antibiotics without medical supervision. Self-medication, the practice of taking medicines without prescription from a qualified medical practitioner, has become alarmingly common. Videos recommending drugs for various ailments can be […]

03
May

AI search engines promote illegal online pharmacies: Study

First Check Team / 8 months
0
2 min read

The integration of generative artificial intelligence (AI) into search engines offers exciting prospects for a more personalised and user-friendly search experience. However, a pertinent study has raised serious concerns about the associated public health risks, particularly the inadvertent promotion of illegal online pharmacies.

02
May

Food safety: 5 harmful chemicals in food products

First Check Team / 8 months
0
2 min read

There’s an urgent need for transparent labelling, effective regulation, and greater consumer awareness to safeguard public health. Indian spice brands have been in the news lately for allegedly not following food safety regulations in various countries. Popular products from companies like Everest and MDH were found to contain ethylene oxide, classified as a ‘Group 1 […]

25
Apr

World Malaria Day 2024 Crossword!

First Check Team / 9 months
0
1 min read

Team First Check is thrilled to present its first-ever crossword puzzle which is designed to test your knowledge and raise awareness about the important global health issue – Malaria.

Dive into the clues and fill in the squares with terms related to malaria. Whether you’re a puzzle pro or just getting started, this crossword is a fun and engaging way to learn more about malaria.

25
Apr

Airborne pathogens to be called infectious respiratory particles: WHO

First Check Team / 9 months
0
2 min read

The latest global technical consultation report addresses the issue of not having a consistent language to describe the spread of airborne pathogens. During the COVID-19 pandemic, different groups used different words to talk about how pathogens spread through the air. This caused massive confusion. A global technical consultation report by the World Health Organization (WHO), […]

23
Apr

Explainer: 5 vitamins, besides vitamin D, for optimal bone health

First Check Team / 9 months
0
2 min read

International Journal of Molecular Medicine article sheds light on the complexity of bone building, underscoring the need for incorporating vitamins A, B, C, E, and K in our daily lives. While the role of vitamin D in calcium absorption and the prevention of osteoporosis is well known, there’s little awareness about the importance of other […]

18
Apr

Light physical activity can improve metabolic health in children: Study

First Check Team / 9 months
0
2 min read

Among overweight and obese youths, increased LPA linked with 20 per cent reduced risk of worsening hyperinsulinemia. Light physical activity (LPA) is linked to a lower chance of developing excess insulin and insulin resistance from childhood to young adulthood. Increased sedentary time worsens metabolic health, especially in those who are overweight or obese, says a […]

16
Apr

Deep inequities, underreported suffering in global breast cancer battle: Report

First Check Team / 9 months
0
4 min read

Lancet Commission report estimates global breast cancer incidence to rise from 2.3 million new cases in 2020 to over three million by 2040 and one million deaths annually. In 2020, 7.8 million women were alive having been diagnosed with breast cancer in the previous five years, reflecting progress in research and cancer management that has […]

12
Apr

India closing the gap between estimated and reported TB cases: Report

First Check Team / 9 months
0
3 min read

India TB Report 2024, by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, highlights the pressing need to improve the adoption of latest technology to combat the disease. Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s annual report on the state of tuberculosis (TB) India TB Report 2024 shows significant progress in the detection and treatment of […]

09
Apr

India ‘Cancer capital of the world’: Report

First Check Team / 9 months
0
4 min read

Apollo Hospitals’ Health of Nation report shows a concerning surge in non-communicable diseases, which are now manifesting at increasingly younger ages across the country. Apollo Hospitals, the largest private hospital network in India, recently released the latest edition of its flagship annual report, Health of Nation, which shows a concerning surge in non-communicable diseases […]

08
Apr

Social cues shape perceptions of online information: Study

First Check Team / 9 months
0
3 min read

By acknowledging the social aspects of online information consumption, the researchers contend that we gain valuable insights into our susceptibility to misinformation. In today’s digital age, social media platforms have become central to how we consume information. Yet, the role of social cues and source credibility in shaping our perceptions of online content often goes […]

21
Mar

US launches Foreign Ministry Channel for Health Security to counter health misinformation, disinformation

First Check Team / 10 months
0
3 min read

Climate change, growing regional instability, the rise of misinformation and disinformation increase the complexity of preventing and responding to the next pandemic. The United States has launched Foreign Ministry Channel (FMC) for Health Security, making health security a foreign policy priority, and effectively addressing health-related misinformation and disinformation. This comes with the recognition that the […]

20
Mar

Pro tips to find scientific health information on social media

First Check Team / 10 months
0
2 min read

Nutrition and fitness expert Layne Norton offers some sound advice on navigating false, misleading claims online. While self-proclaimed health experts on social media platforms are some of the biggest perpetuators of health misinformation, there are also several qualified professionals, who share valuable information online on health and well-being. Layne Norton, a PhD holder in Nutritional […]

18
Mar

Vaccine misinformation fuels measles resurgence in US

First Check Team / 10 months
0
2 min read

58 new measles cases reported by 17 jurisdictions, raising fears of comeback of the disease that was declared eliminated from the US 24 years ago. In 2000, measles was declared eliminated from the United States of America. However, recent trends show a resurgence of measles cases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated […]

14
Mar

WHO proposes pandemic agreement, not treaty

First Check Team / 10 months
0
2 min read

The ninth Intergovernmental Negotiating Body meeting will be held in hybrid format from March 18 to March 28, 2024. Ahead of the ninth meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB) for a World Health Organization (WHO) instrument on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response, later this month, the WHO has started an aggressive campaign on the […]

28
Feb

Indian court takes firm stand on misleading health ads

First Check Team / 11 months
0
2 min read

The Supreme Court orders immediate ban on all electronic and print advertisements by Patanjali Ayurved. In a scathing indictment, the Supreme Court of India has criticised the Central Government for its lack of action against Patanjali Ayurved, co-owned by yoga guru Ramdev, in a case involving “misleading and false” advertisements. The apex court remarked that […]

20
Feb

Exercise is an effective treatment for depression: Study

First Check Team / 11 months
0
2 min read

While walking or jogging benefited both genders, strength training was more beneficial for women, and yoga or qigong was more effective for men. A recent study, published in the British Medical Journal, finds that exercise is an effective treatment for depression, with walking or jogging, yoga, and strength training more effective than other exercises, particularly […]

14
Feb

Interview: ‘Misinformation can lead to misunderstandings about scientific facts’

First Check Team / 11 months
0
4 min read

Dr Safieh Shah, First Check member and Canada-based senior policy scientist, talks about the power of collaboration, the prevalent challenges, and the urgency to strengthen our fight against health misinformation. “The landscape of health misinformation is dynamic and changes over time, as does social media,” says Dr Safieh Shah, First Check member and senior policy […]

12
Feb

AI-generated content cannot provide personalised medical advice: Study

First Check Team / 11 months
0
2 min read

While ChatGPT 3.5 and 4.0 can serve as supplementary sources for health information, a recent study underscores the need for validation and scrutiny of AI-generated content. By First Check Team As health misinformation continues to spread across various online platforms, the reliability of sources becomes paramount. An interesting study sought to evaluate the potential of […]

06
Feb

Conspiracy theories major obstacle to new global pandemic treaty: WHO

First Check Team / 11 months
0
3 min read

Despite lessons that should have been learned during COVID-19, the world is unprepared for the next pandemic, be it an influenza virus, another coronavirus, or “Disease X.” A new global pandemic treaty is in the works. The motive of the treaty is to prepare the world for the next pandemic, be it an influenza virus, […]

02
Feb

Use behavioural science to fight health misinformation: Study

First Check Team / 12 months
0
2 min read

Latest research underscores the importance of recognising the content, tactics employed by spreaders, and understanding the motivations of those susceptible to misinformation. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the role of social media in public health has become increasingly evident. A recent research titled ‘Using Behavioural Science for Infodemic Preparedness: The Case of Vaccination […]

31
Jan

Dilute vaccine misinformation with large amounts of scientific evidence: US FDA experts

First Check Team / 12 months
0
3 min read

Vaccine hesitancy brings about a substantial risk to the population’s immunity against vaccine-preventable infectious diseases and could potentially lead to thousands of deaths. Plummeting vaccination rates currently pose a major public health challenge in the United States. A recent viewpoint article in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) by Peter Marks and Robert […]

26
Jan

Measles: Misinformation-fuelled vaccine hesitancy puts children’s lives at risk

First Check Team / 12 months
0
2 min read

The CDC reported that measles cases in 2022 increased by 18%, and deaths by 43% globally as compared to 2021. Misinformation on vaccines, spread by a section of social media users, is contributing to vaccine hesitancy and negatively affecting public health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a 10-year low in routine […]

24
Jan

Video gamers at risk of irreversible hearing loss, tinnitus: Study

First Check Team / 12 months
0
2 min read

Researchers note the need to consider permissible noise levels and exposure duration to determine safe listening practices. Recent research findings suggest that video gamers worldwide may be jeopardising their hearing, exposing themselves to irreversible hearing loss, and persistent tinnitus. Researchers analysed data from studies involving over 50,000 individuals and found that reported sound levels often […]

22
Jan

Cervical cancer awareness month: HPV vaccines are safe

First Check Team / 12 months
0
2 min read

While India’s Union Health Ministry is yet to take a decision on the roll-out of HPV vaccination against cervical cancer, misleading posts and videos are doing the rounds on social media channels. January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. While India’s Union Health Ministry has said it is yet to take a decision on the roll-out […]

18
Jan

Decline in tobacco use rates globally: WHO

First Check Team / 12 months
0
2 min read

Currently the WHO South-East Asian Region has the highest percentage of population using tobacco at 26.5%, with the European Region not far behind at 25.3%. The World Health Organization (WHO) tobacco trends report released earlier this week brings some good news. The world is getting closer to the voluntary target of a 30% relative reduction […]

16
Jan

A pill or injection can’t address the complexities of obesity: Lancet

First Check Team / 12 months
0
3 min read

Weight loss is only maintained while taking the drugs; once treatment stops, weight can be regained, and so the costs of chronic treatment, for both individuals and health systems, could be substantial. Global efforts are on to discover effective drugs for obesity and diabetes. While a simple pill or injection will undoubtedly help some patients, […]

11
Jan

Moderate to vigorous physical activity can help COPD patients: Study

First Check Team / 1 year
0
2 min read

Getting 20 minutes of intense activity at least three days a week, or 30 minutes of moderate activity at least five days a week can make a positive difference for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Exercising more, specifically doing moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), can help people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), […]

05
Jan

ChatGPT gives incorrect diagnoses, but holds promise

First Check Team / 1 year
0
2 min read

The LLM-based chatbot reached an incorrect diagnosis in 83 out of 100 pediatric case challenges, finds study. A large language model (LLM) based chatbot gave the wrong diagnosis for the majority of paediatric cases, finds a recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics. Among the diagnoses, 72% were incorrect and 11% were clinically related but too […]

03
Jan

Social media listening crucial for tackling infodemic’s impact on health: Study

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

There is growing evidence of the impact of the infodemic on non-communicable diseases, climate change, vaccine acceptance, and mental health, among many other health concerns. A recent study says that social listening and integrated analysis to generate infodemic insights are the first step in managing the infodemic.

01
Jan

Fact-checking health in 2024

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

Medical practitioners, fact checkers and journalists need to collaborate to make it happen As 2023 draws to a close, global health regulators are issuing warnings against counterfeit versions of Ozempic, a drug used for type 2 diabetes. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confiscated ‘thousands of units’ of counterfeit medication within the American drug […]

05
Dec

Critical gap in cancer trials in India, finds study

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

Several states in Northeast India had no registered clinical trials available to cancer patients from 2007 to 2021. A recent study revealed a disconcerting reality about India’s fight against cancer: Between July 2007 and December 2021, a mere 1988 cancer clinical trials were registered with India’s Clinical Trial Registry (CTRI). This figure pales in comparison […]

27
Nov

COVID-19 vaccine not the cause of unexplained sudden death among young adults: ICMR Study

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

Certain high-risk behavioural factors such as binge drinking, smoking and strenuous physical activity were found to be positively associated with unexplained sudden death. COVID-19 vaccination did not increase the risk of unexplained sudden death among young adults in India, states the latest Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) study. On the contrary, the study finds […]

20
Nov

Delay umbilical cord clamping by two minutes to reduce premature baby deaths, says study

First Check Team / 1 year
0
2 min read

It allows blood to flow from the placenta to the baby whilst the baby’s lungs fill with air, potentially easing the transition into breathing. Waiting for two minutes or longer to clamp the umbilical cord of a premature baby likely reduces the risk of death soon after birth, according to two companion systematic reviews and […]

16
Nov

370% rise in heat-related deaths by 2050 if climate goals unmet: The Lancet report

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

The 2023 report of the Lancet Countdown on health and climate change highlights how the health of humanity is at grave risk. The 2023 report of the ‘Lancet Countdown on health and climate change: the imperative for a health-centred response in a world facing irreversible harms’, released earlier this week, provides a disturbing glimpse of […]

07
Nov

UNESCO unveils action plan to regulate social media platforms to fight disinformation

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

The first World Conference of Regulators to be held in mid-2024; to mobilise dedicated funding, including one million Euros pledged by the European Commission. While unveiling an action plan to tackle online disinformation on November 6, 2023, UNESCO made a strong comment on the escalating proliferation of online disinformation and hate speech becoming “a major […]

01
Nov

Fact-check: Emergency contraceptive pills are safe

First Check Team / 1 year
0
2 min read

While they can be a powerful tool of women empowerment, there’s an urgent need for public awareness and access, coupled with efforts to promote gender equality in the reproductive sphere. A viral tweet – with three million views at the time of this writing – on the perils of using emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) claims […]

25
Oct

AI can perpetuate harmful, debunked, racist ideas in healthcare: Study

First Check Team / 1 year
0
2 min read

A recent study highlights the potential dangers of integrating Large Language Models in healthcare systems without addressing inherent biases. A recent study published on npj Digital Medicine (Nature) highlights the potential dangers of integrating Large Language Models (LLMs) in healthcare systems without addressing inherent biases. At a time when artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly getting […]

19
Oct

Rise of anti-science movement claims millions of lives, warns researcher

First Check Team / 1 year
0
2 min read

In his book ‘The Deadly Rise of Anti-Science: a Scientist’s Warning’, Peter Hotez notes that health misinformation is organised, well-financed, and politically motivated. ‘The Deadly Rise of Anti-Science: a Scientist’s Warning’ by Peter Hotez, Dean for the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine Houston, TX, USA, is essential reading for out […]

13
Oct

Fact-check: Vitamin C can’t ward off the flu

First Check Team / 1 year
0
2 min read

Vitamin C has long been of interest to medical experts and researchers for its role in supporting the immune system and its potential in preventing and treating infections. As the cold and flu season approaches, many individuals arm themselves with a familiar defense: pills, powders, and various forms of vitamin C. Does vitamin C actually […]

12
Oct

Nipah virus infection: 10 facts

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

It’s important to be informed about the infection; don’t be swayed by fear mongering and misinformation. By First Check team Nipah virus infection is suspected to be the cause of two recent deaths due to fever in Kozhikode, Kerala. While the suspicion can only be confirmed once the test results from the National Institute of Virology […]

21
Sep

Hypertension affects one in three adults globally: WHO global report on hypertension

First Check Team / 1 year
0
4 min read

The first-of-its-kind, comprehensive analysis finds that currently, only one in five individuals with hypertension has their condition under control. Strengthening hypertension control programmes is crucial. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently unveiled a first-of-its-kind report highlighting the devastating global impact of high blood pressure, a pervasive health issue often referred to as the “silent killer”. […]

16
Aug

A good start: YouTube’s long-term vision for medical misinformation policies

First Check Team / 1 year
0
2 min read

The platform will streamline existing guidelines to fall under three categories – Prevention, Treatment, and Denial. By First Check team As the threat of health misinformation continues to loom large across the globe, YouTube recently announced its long-term vision for medical misinformation policies on the platform. The video platform will start by removing content that […]

01
Jul

First Check bags Global Fact Check Fund award

First Check Team / 2 years
0
2 min read

IFCN awarded 35 organisations serving 45 countries with $25,000 each to strengthen the impact of their fact-checking projects. The International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN) on Thursday announced grant recipients from the Global Fact Check Fund’s BUILD phase, which aims to help fact-checking organisations scale or upgrade their online presence. First Check, DataLEADS’s flagship health fact-checking initiative, […]

25
Jan

The Mercury Project: Call for proposals

First Check Team / 2 years
0
2 min read

The Social Science Research Council announces USD $2 million grant for projects designed to increase demand for childhood vaccines, HPV, polio, measles, and COVID-19 in low- and lower-middle income countries.

03
Nov

Baseless theories about entry of women in Sabarimala Temple causing the 2018 floods in Kerala, debunked and clarified

First Check Team / 3 years
0
4 min read

If social media posts are to be believed, the 2018 flood fury in Kerala, was a divine response to allowing women of all ages into the temple, breaking a centuries-old tradition.

23
Apr

NSA Ajit Doval didn’t write a letter lauding Kumbh efforts

First Check Team / 4 years
0
1 min read

Government officials confirmed that reports of the so-called letter praising the Uttarakhand govt for Kumbh efforts are fake.

19
Apr

False claim uses Japanese Nobel laureate Tasuku Honjo name again to spread COVID-19 misinformation

First Check Team / 4 years
0
2 min read

As the world grapples with a health crisis and misinformation, false claims are re-emerging despite being debunked earlier.

15
Mar

Are DIY disinfectants safe?

First Check Team / 4 years
0
4 min read

Youtube is awash with how to disinfect surfaces and many people have resorted to trying to make their own disinfectants by watching viral do-it-yourself (DIY) videos and YouTube tutorials. But mixing chemicals in the wrong proportion can at best create an ineffective product – and at worst result in poisoning.

15
Mar

First Check now a member of the International Fact-Checking Network

First Check Team / 4 years
0
2 min read

First Check, the health fact-checking initiative of Health Analytics Asia, is now a signatory of the International Fact-Checking Network at Poynter, USA.

20
Feb

No evidence to say that COVID-19 vaccines affect pregnancy

First Check Team / 4 years
0
2 min read

Currently, there is no established link between miscarriages after COVID-19 immunization as only limited data is available

01
Nov

Debunking 6 viral claims about COVID-19 remedies

First Check Team / 4 years
0
2 min read

There’s no dearth of posts on social media platforms claiming to have found the cure for the coronavirus. Here’s one in Hindi that makes not one, but several claims about COVID-19 cures and prevention.

10
Jul

No, tying a sack of spices and camphor will not protect you from Covid-19

First Check Team / 5 years
0
3 min read

There is no scientific evidence that tying a homemade pouch full of different spices can protect people from Covid-19. The video has been viewed thousands of times but the claim is false and is misleading people.