admin - Page 2 of 7 - First Check

31
Aug

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Role of accredited platforms in health information – An excerpt from First Check’s Coffee Table Book

Dr Chandrika Kambam / 2 months
0
2 min read

“Only accredited digital healthcare platforms with medicos on the panel should be allowed to publish health information.” I have witnessed the healthcare industry’s transition from offline, physical information to digitisation. The evolution has, no doubt, broadened our horizons and improved access to healthcare. However, just like everything in life, this too has a downside — […]

30
Aug

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Important to characterise long COVID in children: Study

First Check Team / 2 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

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

First Check Team / 2 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” […]

28
Aug

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Explainer: Ritlecitinib, a remedy for hair loss

Pallav Vyas / 2 months
0
2 min read

The first drug to be approved by the U.S. FDA for the treatment of alopecia areata, Ritlecitinib is an immune suppressant that encourages hair growth. There are many reasons for hair loss or alopecia. The cause determines whether one’s hair falls out gradually or abruptly, or just visibly thins out in certain areas. For example, […]

27
Aug

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Continued need to improve AI tools in healthcare: Study

First Check Team / 2 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 […]

27
Aug

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FACT CHECK: Sugar does not induce hyperactivity in children

Pallav Vyas / 2 months
0
2 min read

Scientists find that sugar consumption does not affect the behaviour or cognitive performance of children. However, one cannot eliminate the possibility of a small effect, particularly in individuals with ADHD. At birthday parties, children often gorge on candies and break into a bedlam. Parents, typically, blame the sugar in the candy for the kids’ hyperactive […]

24
Aug

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Persistent threat of health misinformation in a post-pandemic world – An Excerpt From First Check’s Coffee Table Book

Tej Kumar / 2 months
0
3 min read

Many years ago, when my mother found out that she had liver and kidney dysfunction, her instinct was to protect her family from the pain and agony. She sought solace in pseudo-scientific practices, half-baked diets, and dubious medicines. What killed her was not the illness, but the lies peddled by those who make a living out of people’s anguish.

22
Aug

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Fact-check: The link between vascularity & varicose veins

Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
0
2 min read

Regular exercise is the best way to keep the muscles toned, the blood flowing, and reduce the risk of developing varicose veins. Gym goers and fitness enthusiasts often find their veins popping out after a good workout session. In the same way, seasoned weightlifters have prominent veins on their arms, legs and other body parts. […]

21
Aug

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Explainer: Decoding LANS, a gamechanger in diagnosing cognitive degeneration

Pallav Vyas / 2 months
0
2 min read

Researchers at Mayo Clinic recently established new criteria for a memory-loss syndrome in older adults, showing promise in the definitive diagnosis of cognitive degenerative conditions. Cognitive deterioration manifests as a combination of symptoms that include difficulties with memory, attention span, communication, judgement, reasoning and problem-solving abilities. Based on symptoms alone, it’s challenging, even for skilled […]

21
Aug

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

First Check Team / 2 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 […]

20
Aug

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EXPLAINER: Five common products that pose cancer risks & healthier alternatives

Deepika Khurana / 2 months
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3 min read

While it’s difficult to completely avoid carcinogens in today’s world, reducing exposure is key. An oncologist shares some practical tips. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has listed and classified various agents as “known or probable human carcinogens”. Research shows that these substances or exposures that can cause DNA changes that may lead […]

20
Aug

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Explainer: Why microplastics in food are damaging

Pallav Vyas / 2 months
0
2 min read

Indians with a high consumption of salt and sugar are exposed to a significant amount of these food contaminants daily, according to a recent study. A recent study in India indicates the presence of microplastics in edible table salt and sugar. Indians with a high consumption of salt and sugar are exposed to a significant […]

17
Aug

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Science denialism and social media – An Excerpt From First Check’s Coffee Table Book

Pratibha / 2 months
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2 min read

The critical role of fact-checking is to combat science denialism and ensure online health advice is accurate, given its life-and-death impact.

16
Aug

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WHO declares health emergency as Mpox surges in Africa

First Check Team / 2 months
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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

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Fact-check: Rosemary oil + coconut oil benefits for hair

Florica Brahma / 2 months
0
2 min read

From tackling bacterial infections and scalp inflammation to preventing protein loss and enhancing hair elasticity, researchers are reviewing potential benefits of both oils. A popular YouTuber claims to have found the formula for happy, healthy hair: Combining the goodness of rosemary oil and coconut oil. Intrigued by the claims made in the video and the […]

14
Aug

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

First Check Team / 2 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 […]

13
Aug

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Explainer: What is ‘Teflon flu’?

Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
0
2 min read

Polymer fume fever, an illness that can occur when Teflon-coated pans are overheated, can easily be prevented. ‘Teflon flu’ has been trending online, following a surge in suspected cases recently in the United States. Does it have any connection with non-stick cookware? Is it a serious health condition? Can it be prevented? The questions are […]

13
Aug

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Fact-check: Vaseline intake not the secret to long life

Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
0
2 min read

Robert Chesebrough, the American chemist who discovered petroleum jelly and lived for 96 years, had a spoonful of Vaseline every day, according to social media posts. We’ve all heard the popular adage that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. If social media is to be believed though, Robert Chesebrough, the American chemist who […]

12
Aug

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

First Check Team / 2 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 […]

07
Aug

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Explainer: How chewing your food more can aid weight loss

Deepika Khurana / 2 months
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2 min read

We know that chewing food thoroughly aids digestion. But can it also make one feel full faster and help with weight loss? Researchers have good reason to believe that this may be true.

06
Aug

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Fact-check: The science behind auriculotherapy

Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
0
2 min read

Proponents claim that stimulating specific points on the ear can treat various health conditions affecting different parts of the body. A YouTube video in Hindi (with 4.2K+ views) of a recent podcast episode with a physiotherapist in India has been doing the rounds on social media platforms. “Is there any evidence to support the science […]

05
Aug

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Explainer: How a blood thinner works as antidote to snakebite

Pallav Vyas / 2 months
0
2 min read

Scientists at the University of Sydney and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine used CRISPR gene-editing technology to identify ways to block cobra venom and repurposed heparin to stop necrosis. Recently, scientists at the University of Sydney and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine discovered that a common blood thinner, Heparin, can be repurposed as […]

05
Aug

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

First Check Team / 2 months
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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 […]

03
Aug

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Navigating truth and misinformation in the digital age – An excerpt from First Check’s Coffee Table Book

Tracey Nomatter Ruzengwe / 3 months
0
3 min read

In today’s digital age, we are seeing the irreparable damage caused by social media. The speed at which (mis)information can reach multitudes is unbelievable! So, we need to be cautious of what we share on digital platforms (as well as in in-person communications). I have found the acronym S.H.A.R.E to be a helpful guide in deciding whether to share information which I encounter on social media. It stands for: check the Source; Headlines do not always tell the full story; Analyse the facts; images and videos could be Retouched; look out for Errors.

02
Aug

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Fact-check: The connection between sleep and feeling young

Deepika Khurana / 3 months
0
2 min read

Studies indicate that lack of sleep can accelerate the process of aging, says Dr Puneet Khanna, Head of Department and Consultant in Respiratory Medicine at Manipal Hospital, Delhi, India. Is a good night’s sleep the secret to feeling young? The answer is yes, according to a recent research by Stockholm University. First Check reached out […]

01
Aug

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

First Check Team / 3 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 […]

01
Aug

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Explainer: Decoding the social media conflict over hibiscus tea

Allen Joe Mathew / 3 months
0
2 min read

Hibiscus tea may have medicinal properties, but clinical research on the subject is currently limited. Earlier this week, a popular Indian actress put out a social media post on hibiscus tea, thanking her nutritionist for introducing her to the wonder drink with numerous health benefits. In response, a doctor known for combatting misleading health information […]

31
Jul

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14 modifiable risk factors key to preventing dementia: Study

First Check Team / 3 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 […]

31
Jul

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Fact-check: Gel manicures and the risk of skin cancer

Deepika Khurana / 3 months
0
3 min read

While research suggests that radiation emitted by UV-nail polish dryers can damage DNA, there are no conclusive findings yet about it causing skin cancer in humans. For those who want their nail polish to last for weeks, gel manicures are the popular choice. Gel polish is typically “cured” by ultraviolet (UV) light, which helps the […]

30
Jul

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19 million adolescent girls experience intimate partner violence: WHO

First Check Team / 3 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 […]

30
Jul

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EXPLAINER: What’s the connection between political ideology and health?

Riyaz Wani / 3 months
0
2 min read

While health plays a role in developing one’s political ideology, the latter shapes one’s attitude towards health. The next time you feel drawn to a particular political ideology, consider checking your health. The connection between individual health and political ideology is fascinating. Data from studies show that the impact of political ideology on health behaviours […]

29
Jul

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Fact-check: How heavy metal music impacts the mind

Florica Brahma / 3 months
0
2 min read

Studies find that intense tempo and heavy bass doesn’t cause aggression in listeners; listening to heavy metal can lead to increased positive emotions and stress relief. Can listening to heavy metal songs be an effective tool for coping with stress and anxiety? For me, metal music has been a saviour since I discovered my first […]

29
Jul

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

First Check Team / 3 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 […]

27
Jul

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The critical role of fact-checking in health information– An excerpt from First Check’s Coffee Table Book

Zayed Aboali / 3 months
0
2 min read

It is crucial to actively debunk false claims, verify information from trusted sources, and understand cognitive biases, to ensure the public receives accurate and reliable health information. “It’s not good enough to know that you know the facts, you need to step up and set the record straight. Debunking false claims, particularly about health, is […]

26
Jul

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Lessons from the latest health controversy on social media

Tej Kumar / 3 months
0
3 min read

Recent controversy involving Indian actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Dr Cyriac Abby Philips, aka The Liver Doc, is a stark reminder of the challenges of tackling health misinformation. The recent controversy involving Indian actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Dr Cyriac Abby Philips, aka The Liver Doc, on social media has pertinent lessons on dealing with […]

26
Jul

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

First Check Team / 3 months
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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. […]

25
Jul

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Fact-check: Women who carry the DNA of men

Allen Joe Mathew / 3 months
0
2 min read

The presence of male cells in women could be attributed to pregnancies with male foetuses, or the transfer of cells from male siblings during gestation. “Do women carry the DNA of men they’ve had sexual intercourse with?” asked a First Check reader. This is an old claim that has been periodically surfacing on the internet […]

24
Jul

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The conundrum of COVID deaths: Claims and counterclaims

First Check Team / 3 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 […]

24
Jul

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Explainer: The link between microplastics and men’s reproductive health

Florica Brahma / 3 months
0
2 min read

Recent discovery of microplastics in semen raises questions about the potential health impacts of this contamination on male reproduction. A team of researchers from leading environmental and health research institutions analysed semen samples from Italian men and found microplastics in a significant share of the samples. The discovery of microplastics in human sperm opens a […]

23
Jul

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

First Check Team / 3 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

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Explainer: Decoding spinal muscular atrophy

Pallav Vyas / 3 months
0
3 min read

SMN protein is produced inadequately leading to severely compromised bodily functions, or physical disability. There have been reports in the Indian news media recently about the plight of infants afflicted by Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a genetic neuromuscular disorder. One of the recognised remedies – Zolgensma (Onasemnogene Abeparvoves-Xioi), an FDA-approved gene therapy medicine, costing INR […]

22
Jul

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Polio virus detected in Gaza, WHO warns of global risk

First Check Team / 3 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 […]

20
Jul

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How to cultivate a healthier information ecosystem – An excerpt from First Check’s Coffee Table Book

Dr. Maulik Patel / 3 months
0
2 min read

Governments and private sector must work together to create efficient tools and guidelines to combat health misinformation. In the era of social media, we are constantly bombarded with information, which if not interpreted correctly can lead to disastrous consequences, as we have experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. While the right health information can help us […]

19
Jul

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Addressing the threat to global public health

First Check Team / 3 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 […]

19
Jul

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Fact-check: Spirulina rich in nutrition, but not essential for all

Allen Joe Mathew / 3 months
0
2 min read

Its unique composition has led NASA to incorporate spirulina into astronauts’ diets to meet their nutritional needs in space. In recent years, spirulina, a type of blue-green algae, has captivated the attention of health enthusiasts and social media influencers alike. This microscopic marvel is claimed to have an impressive nutritional profile with several health benefits. […]

18
Jul

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Explainer: The threat of Chandipura Virus

Pallav Vyas / 3 months
0
2 min read

The viral infection transmitted by sandflies, mosquitoes, and ticks, has been claiming young lives in India lately. A suspected outbreak of Chandipura Virus (CHPV), a viral infection transmitted by sandflies, mosquitoes, and ticks, has been reported in the Indian state of Gujarat. It is believed to have claimed 15 lives — mostly children — so […]

18
Jul

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Salmonella outbreak in the US linked to cucumbers

First Check Team / 3 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) […]

16
Jul

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Fact-check: Tirzepatide aids weight loss, helps manage diabetes

Pallav Vyas / 3 months
0
2 min read

The drug suppresses appetite, while simultaneously slowing down digestion, so that individuals feel full for longer durations. The Indian media has been abuzz with news about US pharma giant Eli Lilly’s weight-loss drug, Tirzepatide, that could be a game-changer in managing diabetes. “But is the drug safe?” enquired a First Check reader. As per the […]

15
Jul

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Decoding the link between formal education & Alzheimer’s disease

First Check Team / 3 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

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

First Check Team / 3 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 […]

13
Jul

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Combining the reach of social media with the power of traditional media – An excerpt from First Check’s Coffee Table Book

Qian Sun / 3 months
0
2 min read

We pondered about the ways in which we can deliver verified, scientific health information to maximum number of people. How can we talk to each other, without being stuck in our echo chambers? When the COVID-19 pandemic started to spread from China to different parts of the world, I was on a holiday in India. […]

12
Jul

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Explainer: The little-known stiff person syndrome

Pallav Vyas / 3 months
0
2 min read

Recent Celine Dion video prompts conversations about the extremely rare neurological disorder with no cure. Celine Dion, the Canadian singer, has been in the news recently after a video of her experiencing a “10-minute seizure” went viral online. The singer has maintained a low public profile since being diagnosed with stiff person syndrome (SPS) in […]

12
Jul

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FDA updates guidelines to combat misinformation on medical devices, drugs

First Check Team / 3 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

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

First Check Team / 3 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 […]

10
Jul

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Explainer: Decoding Zika virus, prevention measures

Pallav Vyas / 3 months
0
2 min read

Explainer: Decoding Zika virus, prevention measures Given that there is no vaccine yet to prevent Zika virus disease, or medicine to treat the condition, prevention is the key. With India reporting growing cases of Zika virus infection, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued a public health advisory earlier this month. First […]

09
Jul

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Fact-check: Smoking harms oral health in numerous ways

Allen Joe Mathew / 3 months
0
2 min read

Reduced blood flow makes it tougher to detect gum disease in early stages, as bleeding gums are an early warning sign. While the risks of oral cancer due to tobacco use are well-known, many people are unaware of other detrimental effects on dental health. Research shows that tobacco use causes periodontal disease, oral mucosal lesions, […]

09
Jul

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WHO guideline for 750 million tobacco users seeking to quit

First Check Team / 3 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 […]

08
Jul

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Explainer: Why amoebic meningoencephalitis deaths in Kerala are disconcerting

Pallav Vyas / 3 months
0
3 min read

This could be a result of climate change, since rising air temperatures lead to a rise in water temperatures, which are the breeding grounds for Naegleria fowleri. The news of three deaths in the last two months in the southern state of Kerala, due to amoebic meningoencephalitis, a rare infection, is causing much apprehension among […]

06
Jul

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GPs can play a crucial role in the fight against health misinformation – An excerpt from First Check’s Coffee Table Book

Siti Fatimah / 3 months
0
2 min read

There is an urgent need to promote health literacy and critical thinking skills to help people find reliable sources of health information. I tell my patients to be wary of health claims that seem too good to be true, such as those that promise miraculous results in no time. It is equally important to be […]

05
Jul

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

First Check Team / 3 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, […]

05
Jul

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Fact-check: 3 common myths about blood donation

Pallav Vyas / 3 months
0
2 min read

Healthy adults can donate blood regularly. Not age, but health condition determines whether or not you are eligible to be a blood donor. Blood donation is equated with the gift of life. Yet several prevailing myths about this noble act often dissuade well-meaning people from donating blood. In response to reader queries, First Check debunks […]

04
Jul

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

First Check Team / 4 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

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Explainer: How oral semaglutide aids weight loss

Pallav Vyas / 4 months
0
2 min read

The first oral GLP 1 approved by the USFDA for treatment of type 2 diabetes, the drug can also aid weight loss among non-diabetic population as well as protect cardiovascular health. Overweight and obesity have become a huge public health problem, leading to a gold rush to manufacture anti-obesity drugs worldwide. Among the many aspirants, […]

03
Jul

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

First Check Team / 4 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 […]

02
Jul

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Fact-check: Air fryer French fries a healthier choice

Allen Joe Mathew / 4 months
0
3 min read

Air fryers operate at similar temperatures to deep fryers, but the most significant difference between the two methods lies in the fat and calorie content of the cooked food. “Are air fryer French fries a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried ones?” asked a First Check reader. For all those who love their French fries, First […]

01
Jul

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First Check Diaries by Jisha Krishnan

Jisha Krishnan / 4 months
0
2 min read

An apple a day keeps the doctor away, goes the adage. But for how long? Sooner or later, we all have to make that visit to the doc. Some do it grudgingly, others more sportingly. A lot depends on the personality, right? Not just of the patient, but also of the one wielding the stethoscope. […]

01
Jul

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The journey from melancholia to depression

Riyaz Wani / 4 months
0
2 min read

We now know more about the human mind than we ever did before. This has enabled us to better address, if not cure its maladies. A recent Stanford study has identified six distinct types of depression using brain imaging and machine learning. The research aims to enhance the accuracy of treatments and reduce reliance on the […]

29
Jun

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Challenges and strategies in combatting health misinformation in the Philippines – An Excerpt From First Check’s Coffee Table Book

John Aloyzeus Reotutar / 4 months
0
3 min read

In the Philippines, misinformation runs rampant, from dubious medical claims about cancer to unfounded conspiracy theories, especially exacerbated by the pandemic. As a fact-checker addressing medical misinformation, I see that the landscape poses unique challenges. Fact-checkers, especially those focused on health, often encounter resistance and accusations when debunking false claims promoted by companies peddling questionable health products. This backlash stems from a complex interplay of commercial interests and public perception.

28
Jun

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Myths vs Facts: Topical Use of Steroids in Dermatological Conditions

Deepika Khurana / 4 months
0
3 min read

Topical corticosteroids (TCS) are essential treatments for various inflammatory skin conditions but are often misunderstood. Here’s a breakdown of common myths and facts surrounding their use, clarified by Dr. Pooja Aggarwal, Senior Consultant – Dermatology, Artemis Hospitals:

27
Jun

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Study reveals alarming rise in global physical inactivity

First Check Team / 4 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

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WHO report highlights alcohol and drug impact

First Check Team / 4 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.

25
Jun

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Japan reels under potentially fatal bacterial infection

Pallav Vyas / 4 months
0
3 min read

A critical health emergency has hit Japan, resulting in high rates of infection and mortality. Japan is facing a serious health crisis caused by a dangerous bacteria called Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS). This infection is making people very sick and causing many to stay home or rush to hospitals, similar to what happened during […]

24
Jun

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

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

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22
Jun

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Making Informed and Critical Health Decisions – An Excerpt From First Check’s Coffee Table Book

Dr. Akshay Jadhav / 4 months
0
2 min read

Combatting health misinformation requires critical consumption of information, utilisation of reliable sources, seeking diverse perspectives and consulting healthcare professionals. “Anecdotal evidence masquerades as scientific proof, emotional appeals bypass critical thinking, and cherry-picked data paints a warped picture of reality.” Health misinformation, as I see it, is a tangled web of false or misleading information about […]

21
Jun

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Fact-check: Cellulite is normal, doesn’t need to be fixed

Allen Joe Mathew / 4 months
0
2 min read

The cosmetic industry has capitalised on insecurities surrounding cellulite – promoting treatments that offer temporary results, at best. Cellulite, a common skin condition affecting 80-90 per cent of post-pubertal women, has been the focus of the billion-dollar cosmetic industry. Disparagingly referred to as orange-peel skin or cottage cheese skin on social media platforms, the perception […]

21
Jun

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Early intervention in gestational diabetes key to better health: Study

First Check Team / 4 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 […]

20
Jun

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Fact-check: Easy remedies for muscle cramps

Allen Joe Mathew / 4 months
0
2 min read

Replenishing electrolytes like potassium and sodium, or stretching and massaging the affected muscle may help alleviate the pain. “Does drinking water help cure cramps?” asked a First Check reader. Another query was about “the effectiveness of consuming sesame seed balls to alleviate pain during cramps”. First Check gets you the science-backed answer. Cramping, or tightening […]

20
Jun

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First Check Diaries by Mridula Kapil Bhargava

Mridula Kapil Bhargava / 4 months
0
2 min read

In 1992, I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. I was just a child and had no idea what it meant! I soon realised that the autoimmune condition where the body mistakenly attacks its own insulin-producing cells is shrouded in myths and misconceptions. One of the most pervasive falsehoods is the belief that type 1 […]

19
Jun

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Explainer: Why typhoid fever is so hard to beat

Pallav Vyas / 4 months
0
3 min read

Access to clean drinking water, hygienic food, and typhoid vaccination are the best preventive measures. As urbanisation and climate change continue to add to the global burden of typhoid, the growing incidence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) makes it all the more challenging to contain the spread of this life-threatening infection. Prevalent in many countries in […]

19
Jun

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Fact-check: Flawed rationale behind soaking nuts before consumption

Allen Joe Mathew / 4 months
0
2 min read

Studies find that soaking nuts does not improve gastrointestinal tolerance or have any effect on phytate levels. Social media experts seem unanimous in their recommendation of soaking nuts overnight before consumption. This practice is touted to have immense health benefits, but is the claim backed by science? First Check gets you the answer. According to […]

18
Jun

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Optimal vitamin D intake for disease prevention: Guideline

First Check Team / 4 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

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

First Check Team / 4 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 […]

14
Jun

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Adopt eccentric walking to boost muscle strength, balance

Vani Singh / 4 months
0
2 min read

It can not only help in maintaining mobility and independence among older adults, but can also contribute to better cognitive function and help lower the risk of age-related muscle wasting. There are good reasons why walking is the preferred exercise for countless people. It’s cost-effective, it requires no special equipment or training, and can fit […]

13
Jun

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South Asian countries can support PPPs to introduce new antibiotics responsibly

First Check Team / 4 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 […]

12
Jun

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Fact-check: Turmeric supplements can induce liver injury

Pallav Vyas / 4 months
0
2 min read

While curcumin generally exhibits safe metabolism and low toxicity among humans, unregulated supplement use can lead to harmful side-effects. Curcumin, the biologically active component in turmeric, has been revered for its health benefits in different cultures. Widely used in Ayurveda and Chinese medicine as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and cardio protective agent, turmeric has acquired […]

11
Jun

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

First Check Team / 4 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 […]

10
Jun

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Fact-check: Vaccine scars don’t imply effectiveness

Allen Joe Mathew / 4 months
0
2 min read

Older vaccines often used live but weakened viruses or bacteria that caused localised infection, triggering an immune response. In the past, getting a vaccine often left a scar on your arm. Many people assumed that the scar meant the vaccine was working. Today, modern vaccines today don’t cause scarring. Does it mean they aren’t as […]

10
Jun

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Explainer: Shingles is more than a painful rash

Pallav Vyas / 4 months
0
3 min read

The chickenpox vaccine is effective in preventing chickenpox as well as shingles. It’s approved for children and adults. A clinical study demonstrating the efficacy of a vaccine in preventing shingles for over a decade made headlines in India last month as the pharma giant launched the vaccine in the country. However, awareness about the viral […]

08
Jun

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When health misinformation thrives during uncertainty – An excerpt from First Check’s Coffee Table Book

Abara Erim / 4 months
0
3 min read

By building a culture of critical thinking and evidence-based discourse, we can mitigate the harmful effects of misinformation and promote informed decision-making. In 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world, Nigeria Health Watch collaborated with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) to embark on a crucial mission to tackle the rampant […]

07
Jun

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Hypothyroidism: My journey from apathy to acceptance

Allen Joe Mathew / 4 months
0
3 min read

A personal account of battling ignorance and online misinformation that made a manageable condition worse. I was 19 when I got diagnosed with hypothyroidism. The symptoms had been present since a long time, but I didn’t take them seriously. Neither did anyone else. I remember feeling tired most of the time, gaining excess weight, having […]

07
Jun

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Fact-check: Pros and cons of brown rice, white rice

Aliya Zainab / 4 months
0
3 min read

Brown rice contains higher levels of fibre and vitamins. However, it also has more arsenic, a toxic compound that can be troublesome for those with weak digestion. Which is healthier – brown rice or white rice? The question is often asked. First Check gets you the answer, backed by science and a nutritionist’s take. Let’s […]

06
Jun

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Higher intake of ultra-processed foods associated with higher mortality: Study

Florica Brahma / 4 months
0
3 min read

A recent study involving 74,563 women and 39,501 men, all free from cancer, cardiovascular diseases, or diabetes at the outset, investigated the impact of ultra-processed food consumption on mortality. Here are the key findings from the comprehensive, population-based cohort study:

06
Jun

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

First Check Team / 4 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

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First Check Diaries by Jisha Krishnan

Jisha Krishnan / 4 months
0
2 min read

As the results of the world’s largest democratic elections unfolded yesterday, four words echoed everywhere. Those who supported the victors, those who sympathised with the other contenders, just about everyone I know, said the same thing – I told you so! “The four most beautiful words in our common language,” as American writer Gore Vidal […]

05
Jun

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World Environment Day: Invest in breastfeeding for a sustainable world

Allen Joe Mathew / 4 months
0
3 min read

Feeding a baby with formula for the first six months of life can result in the emission of a quarter tonne of greenhouse gases, note public health researchers. Have you ever thought of breastfeeding as a sustainable food source? Can it serve as a carbon offset for the formula milk industry? A group of public […]

05
Jun

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WHO Member States set new pandemic treaty deadline

First Check Team / 4 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 […]

04
Jun

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Explainer: What is Japanese Encephalitis?

Pallav Vyas / 5 months
0
2 min read

The vector-borne disease spread by mosquitoes can lead to severe brain inflammation, resulting in serious symptoms like seizures, coma and even death. As India and most of Asia await the onset of monsoons after a particularly challenging summer, concerns about Japanese Encephalitis (JE) transmission during the rains are justified. Once the vector populations increase, the […]

03
Jun

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Fact-check: Mangoes with black blotches may be artificially ripened

Pallav Vyas / 5 months
0
2 min read

The king of fruits, mango, has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. In India, the practice of ripening the fruit by injecting it with calcium carbide, a carcinogen, has drawn attention to the health risks associated with the artificial ripening of fruits. “Are black blotches on the surface of mangoes a tell-tale sign of harmful artificial ripening?” asked a First Check reader. The answer is yes; beware of mangoes with black blotches on the skin.

01
Jun

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Importance of Academia-Media Collaboration in Fact-Checking – An Excerpt From First Check’s Coffee Table Book

Walter Balane / 5 months
0
3 min read

Collaboration between universities and media organisations can significantly strengthen the fight against health misinformation by leveraging the expertise and resources of both sectors. “Educators in universities can collaborate with media organisations to build fact-checking teams.” A lot has changed since I started my fact-checking journey in 2019. Today, we have health experts who are media […]

31
May

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World No Tobacco Day: 7 evidence-based facts about tobacco use

Allen Joe Mathew / 5 months
0
3 min read

It’s high time we de-normalise tobacco use, given the massive price we are paying in terms of poor public health, high economic cost, and detrimental environmental effects. Tobacco addiction remains a formidable public health crisis globally, claiming an estimated eight million lives each year, including 1.3 million non-smokers who are exposed to second-hand smoke. Despite […]

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