No, nurses are not purposely administering empty COVID-19 vaccines
- Sahil Bali / 4 years
- 0
- 1 min read
Image of an elderly woman taking the empty Covid-19 vaccine is being circulated in India with a false pretense
30
Apr
Apr
02
Jul
Jul
New gene therapy helps deaf children hear for the first time
- First Check Team / 21 hours
- 0
- 3 min read
A gene therapy has restored significant hearing ability in children, teens, and young adults with congenital deafness, a study published in Nature Medicine has revealed. Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV)-OTOF is a new type of gene therapy that helps some deaf people hear again. Ten participants aged 1.5 to 23.9 years across five sites in China were […]
02
Jul
Jul
FACT CHECK: Can 72 hours of fasting cause the body to eat up tumors?
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 day
- 0
- 3 min read
CLAIM: 72 hours of fasting causes the body to eat up tumors FACT: Insufficient conclusive evidence. There is no conclusive evidence that 72 hours of fasting can make the body “eat up” or eliminate tumors. While fasting may trigger autophagy — a process of recycling damaged cells — tumors are complex and generally require […]
01
Jul
Jul
Global loneliness hits 1 in 6, linked to 100 deaths every hour: WHO
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 days
- 0
- 4 min read
One in six people globally are affected by loneliness, which contributes to an estimated 100 deaths every hour—more than 871,000 deaths annually, a new report from the World Health Organization (WHO) Commission on Social Connection has revealed. The report highlights the impact of social connection on health, well-being, and economic outcomes, calling for urgent action […]
01
Jul
Jul
TB countdown begins: Will India achieve TB elimination by deadline in six months?
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 days
- 0
- 6 min read
In 2018, India set a goal to eliminate tuberculosis (TB) by 2025, five years ahead of the global deadline of 2030, vowing to slash TB incidence by 80% and TB mortality by 90% from 2015 levels. However, with only six months left, the nation grapples with formidable challenges, with many questioning if this target would […]
30
Jun
Jun
New HIV gene therapy could end daily pills, say scientists
- Sneha Richhariya / 3 days
- 0
- 3 min read
Gene therapy could revolutionize HIV treatment, potentially offering a durable, one-time solution for millions of people living with the virus worldwide, a study published in Science Advances by Johns Hopkins University researchers suggests. Led by Associate Professor Fabio Romerio, the study focuses on a molecule within HIV called the antisense transcript (AST), which makes the […]
30
Jun
Jun
Extreme heat could be rewriting your DNA, making you older faster
- First Check Team / 3 days
- 0
- 3 min read
The ongoing heatwave across the world, including in india, may not just be uncomfortable, they may actually be aging your body from the inside out. A study has found that older adults living in areas with frequent extreme heat show signs of accelerated biological aging, as measured by changes in their DNA. These changes, known […]
29
Jun
Jun
Fact Check: Is using urine as an eye wash safe?
- Allen Joe Mathew / 4 days
- 0
- 2 min read
Claim: Using the first urine of the day to wash your eyes is a healthy and beneficial practice. Fact: False. Medical experts have strongly refuted the claim, warning that urine contains waste products and bacteria that can cause serious eye infections and harm. A viral video on social media shows a woman advising people to […]
27
Jun
Jun
Are periodic COVID-19 spikes the new normal?
- Sneha Richhariya / 6 days
- 0
- 6 min read
Recent weeks saw renewed concern as COVID-19 cases were reported across the country. Active cases had surpassed 7,000 earlier this month; it has dropped to less than half that figure now, with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare reporting 3,256 active COVID-19 cases in the country as of June 27, 2025. This latest wave […]
27
Jun
Jun
Rethinking obesity: Focus on overall health, not weight loss, urge doctors in BMJ piece
- First Check Team / 6 days
- 0
- 3 min read
A group of leading experts has warned that focusing solely on weight loss in people with a high body mass index (BMI) may do more harm than good – both medically and psychologically. Writing in The BMJ, Dr Juan Franco, a family doctor at the Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, and colleagues argue that the […]
26
Jun
Jun
New Nipah-like viruses found in Chinese bats, scientists warn
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 week
- 0
- 2 min read
Scientists have identified two new viruses in bats, closely related to the deadly Nipah and Hendra viruses, which can trigger severe brain inflammation and respiratory illness in humans. The findings of this study, along with other newly discovered viruses, bacteria, and parasites in bat kidneys, were published in the open-access journal PLOS Pathogens by Yun […]
25
Jun
Jun
Fact Check: Can scanning a QR code on medicine packaging confirm its authenticity?
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 week
- 0
- 3 min read
CLAIM: Scanning a QR code on medicine packaging can verify its authenticity by providing details like batch number, serial number, manufacturing date, expiry date, and license number. If it shows “no records found,” this indicates the medicine is fake. FACT: This claim is true. In November 2022, the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, […]
25
Jun
Jun
From sting to cure? Scorpion venom offers hope against breast cancer
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 week
- 0
- 3 min read
A molecule found in the venom of an Amazonian scorpion has shown promising results in killing breast cancer cells in the lab, offering hope for a new treatment against one of the world’s deadliest diseases for women. Promising cancer-curing molecule from an unlikely source Researchers at the University of São Paulo, in collaboration with the […]
24
Jun
Jun
Fact Check: Should kids snack on flaky sea salt?
- Allen Joe Mathew / 1 week
- 0
- 3 min read
Claim: Children wanting salt and parents feeding them flaky sea salt is a healthy sign. Fact: Children do crave sodium and nutrients than adults, but it is not advisable to give them salt flakes as snacks. First Check received a query from one of our readers through our tipline +91 9311223141 for a […]
24
Jun
Jun
Silent epidemic: 80% of India’s IT workforce have fatty liver disease
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 week
- 0
- 4 min read
Eighty percent of IT professionals in India have fatty liver due to work pressure, a sedentary lifestyle, and poor lifestyle choices, says a recent study. This cross-sectional study involved 345 IT employees in Hyderabad, India, who responded to a questionnaire on their occupational sitting, shift work, stress, sleep duration, smoking, physical activity, and food habits. […]
23
Jun
Jun
Salman Khan battles Brain Aneurysm, Trigeminal Neuralgia, and AVM: What these mean
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 week
- 0
- 3 min read
During an appearance on The Great Indian Kapil Show recently, Bollywood superstar Salman Khan disclosed his battle with three serious neurological conditions- trigeminal neuralgia, brain aneurysm, and an arteriovenous malformation (AVM). The 59-year-old actor was answering a question about his marriage on the show when he candidly talked about enduring excruciating pain yet continuing to […]
23
Jun
Jun
Fact Check: Is sitting down to pee better for men?
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 week
- 0
- 3 min read
CLAIM: Urinating in a squatting position benefits men’s health, and standing urination contributes to various health issues, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder stones, prostate enlargement, prostate cancer, and kidney problems. FACT: Insufficient scientific evidence. Sitting can promote more complete bladder emptying, lessen pelvic floor strain, and enhance hygiene. But the decision to stand […]
20
Jun
Jun
Over 2 lakh Indians have sickle cell disease, true count likely higher
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 weeks
- 0
- 3 min read
More than 2.1 lakh people in India are living with sickle cell disease (SCD), with over 16 lakh carrying the trait, figures that experts warn may be just a fraction of the country’s true burden, latest government figures reveal. As India faces prevalence and childhood mortality rates comparable to Africa, the government has intensified its […]
20
Jun
Jun
Overusing ChatGPT may erode your brain’s thinking power: MIT study
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 weeks
- 0
- 3 min read
The LLM (Large Language Model) has reduced friction in our work, but it has come at a cost. Over-reliance on ChatGPT for writing could severely impair cognitive abilities, introducing a phenomenon termed “cognitive debt,” a new study from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has revealed. Conducted over four months with 54 participants, the research […]
19
Jun
Jun
FACT CHECK: Can arthritis be diagnosed and treated using knee aspiration?
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 weeks
- 0
- 3 min read
CLAIM: Arthritis can be diagnosed and treated using knee aspiration FACT: The claim is mostly true. Knee aspiration is a recognized procedure for managing arthritis symptoms and aiding diagnosis by analyzing joint fluid. However, it is not a cure, and patients should consult healthcare professionals to understand its role in their treatment plan. An Instagram […]
19
Jun
Jun
FACT CHECK: Is using the air conditioner overnight harmful to health?
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 weeks
- 0
- 3 min read
CLAIM: Using the air conditioner overnight can cause respiratory problems, dry skin and eyes, muscle stiffness, and fatigue, among other health issues. FACT: True. Prolonged exposure to air conditioners, be it overnight or during the day can exacerbate respiratory issues. But precautions can be taken to ensure safety. As summer temperatures soar in India […]
18
Jun
Jun
Singapore scientists create cheaper blood test to track cancer
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 weeks
- 0
- 3 min read
Artificial intelligence (AI) can now detect circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in small blood samples. Fragle, a new AI tool, can detect very small amounts of cancer remaining after treatment, known as minimal residual disease (MRD), helping doctors identify potential relapse at an early stage. Scientists at the ASTAR Genome Institute of Singapore (ASTAR GIS) have […]
18
Jun
Jun
Autistic Pride Day: How to interact with autistic people with kindness, respect and dignity
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 weeks
- 0
- 5 min read
Every June 18th, the world celebrates Autistic Pride Day, an occasion to recognize autistic people’s unique skills, creativity, and perspectives. This day, founded in 2005 by the autism solidarity and campaigning group Aspies for Freedom, is inspired by the gay pride movement and encourages us to consider autism as a thriving element of human diversity […]
17
Jun
Jun
FACT CHECK: Are birth control pills a cure for PCOD?
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 weeks
- 0
- 3 min read
CLAIM: Birth control pills are not a permanent solution for PCOD. FACT: True. Birth control pills are not a permanent solution for PCOD but are effective for managing symptoms, with potential side effects like weight changes and mood swings. Lifestyle changes can significantly improve PCOD and may reduce reliance on medications, but a complete resolution […]
16
Jun
Jun
22-year ordeal ends: Court finds no kidney removal, acquits doctor
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 weeks
- 0
- 2 min read
A unique case of medical negligence that went on for 22 years has finally been quashed by the Patna High Court, where the accused, a female gynaecologist, has been found to be innocent. The court found that the gynaecologist was wrongly implicated in allegations of unlawful kidney removal during a 2000 surgery, in which she […]
14
Jun
Jun
World Blood Donor Day: Why the young donate blood
- Allen Joe Mathew / 3 weeks
- 0
- 4 min read
Blood donation continues to remain a challenge in India, with demand far exceeding the supply. In 2023, then Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, S.P. Baghel had said that the demand for a blood transfusion arises every 2 seconds in India. “On an average, 14.6 million blood (units) is needed every year and […]
14
Jun
Jun
One unit, three lives: Experts urge regular blood donation on World Donor Day
- Allen Joe Mathew / 3 weeks
- 0
- 3 min read
Voluntary blood donation can save up to three lives with every unit and remains the cornerstone of emergency care, chronic illness treatment, and life-saving surgeries, says leading hematologist Dr Kanjaksha Ghosh, highlighting the critical need for regular donations as India marks 20 years of World Blood Donor Day. “Every year, World Blood Donor Day is […]
13
Jun
Jun
WHO’s ‘Beat the Heat’ initiative aims to shield workers, fans from heatwaves
- First Check Team / 3 weeks
- 0
- 3 min read
As global temperatures continue to break records, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) ambitious “Beat the Heat” initiative is gaining ground in its mission to protect workers, sports fans and local communities from extreme heat and related environmental hazards. The project, running from January 2025 to June 2026, marks the first phase of collaboration between WHO […]
12
Jun
Jun
FACT CHECK: Do painkillers really cause infertility and heart issues?
- Allen Joe Mathew / 3 weeks
- 0
- 3 min read
First Check came across a reel in which a popular social media health influencer, Dimple Jangda claims that painkillers can lead to a host of issues from cardiac to infertility. “Painkillers, they increase the risk of heart attack, cardiac health issues by almost 20%,” the influencer says. “So women who would take a lot of […]
10
Jun
Jun
Fact Check: Can putting drops of heated aloe vera into ear relieve ear pain?
- Allen Joe Mathew / 3 weeks
- 0
- 2 min read
Claim: Ear pain can be relieved by putting drops of heated aloe vera gel into the ear. Fact: False. This is unsafe and not recommended. First Check received a fact-check request on our tipline +91 9311223141 from a reader who shared a home remedy for pain relief video. The speaker claims that ear […]
10
Jun
Jun
FACT CHECK: Is kajal really good for your eyes?
- Allen Joe Mathew / 3 weeks
- 0
- 3 min read
CLAIM: Kajal keeps the eyes healthy and prevents infections Fact: False. Experts warn kajal has no health benefits and may even harm the eyes, especially if it contains lead First Check received a fact-check request on our tipline +91 9311223141 from one of our dedicated readers who shared two videos from a channel called Hitaa […]
09
Jun
Jun
FACT CHECK: Does eating too much protein really harm your brain?
- Allen Joe Mathew / 3 weeks
- 0
- 2 min read
CLAIM: Consuming a high-protein diet causes elevated ammonia levels in the brain, leading to memory loss, seizures, and poor sleep FACT: Misleading. The protein study cited in the video is based on a computer simulation involving liver cirrhosis patients, not healthy individuals, and offers no such conclusions for the general population First came […]
06
Jun
Jun
Fact-Check: Can bottle gourd be a viable substitute to blood thinners?
- Allen Joe Mathew / 4 weeks
- 0
- 3 min read
Claim: Bottle gourd (lauki) can be used instead of blood thinners. Fact: False. There is no credible scientific evidence that bottle gourd can replace medically prescribed blood thinners. While bottle gourd has some general health benefits, it does not have proven anticoagulant (blood-thinning) properties in humans. First Check received a fact-check request on our tipline […]
06
Jun
Jun
FACT CHECK: Bryan Johnson claims 60 oxygen therapy sessions reversed his age to that of a 10-year-old
- Sneha Richhariya / 4 weeks
- 0
- 4 min read
CLAIM: Completing 60 sessions of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) reverses biological age. FACT: Insufficient scientific evidence. Some of Johnson’s claims, such as increased telomere length, are supported by preliminary research on HBOT, but the extent of his reported outcomes may be anecdotal. The claims lack independent, peer-reviewed evidence. In a recent YouTube video, tech […]
05
Jun
Jun
FACT CHECK: Should everyone shampoo their hair every day for a healthy scalp?
- Allen Joe Mathew / 4 weeks
- 0
- 3 min read
Claim: We should shampoo our hair every day for healthy hair and scalp. Fact: Not necessarily. The scientific consensus and expert recommendations do not universally support daily shampooing for everyone. The ideal frequency depends on individual hair type, scalp condition, and lifestyle. A viral reel on social media and advice from many […]
04
Jun
Jun
WHO recommends global rollout of RSV vaccines to save infant lives
- Sneha Richhariya / 4 weeks
- 0
- 3 min read
In response to the global burden of severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) disease among infants, WHO has recommended that all countries introduce either the maternal vaccine, RSVpreF, or the monoclonal antibody, nirsevimab, in order to protect infants from the severe effects of the infection. The recommendations, outlined in WHO’s first-ever position paper on immunization against the respiratory illness, […]
04
Jun
Jun
Breakthrough in CAR T-Cell Therapy in fighting solid tumours
- Allen Joe Mathew / 4 weeks
- 0
- 3 min read
CAR T-Cell therapy has revolutionized cancer treatment across the world but has been most effective against blood cancer, and not as much against other types of cancers, until now. Now, researchers in China demonstrated that they have successfully concluded an experimental immunotherapy using engineered immune cells which significantly improves survival in people with advanced gastric […]
03
Jun
Jun
Study links fussiness, sleep issues in kids to Long COVID impact
- Sneha Richhariya / 4 weeks
- 0
- 2 min read
As COVID-19 cases rise worldwide, a study published in JAMA Pediatrics reveals that young children, including infants and preschoolers, are grappling with Long COVID symptoms that differ from those in adults. These findings come at a critical time as new variants fuel a rise in infections, raising concerns about the virus’s lasting impact on the […]
03
Jun
Jun
Depression in your 40s may raise risk of dementia: Study
- Sneha Richhariya / 4 weeks
- 0
- 3 min read
Experiencing depression during midlife, particularly in one’s 40s, may increase the risk of developing dementia in later years, a new study published in the medical journal eClinicalMedicine, a part of The Lancet, has found. Conducted by researchers from the Institute of Mental Health and School of Medicine at the University of Nottingham, the University of […]
02
Jun
Jun
Antibiotics shortage: Only 6.9% of patients treated for deadly superbug infections in developing nations
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 month
- 0
- 3 min read
Sneha Richhariya While antibiotic overuse in some regions fuels the rise of antibiotic resistance, millions in low- and middle-income countries face a deadly paradox as they are unable to access life-saving drugs for carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative (CRGN) infections–superbugs that evade powerful antibiotics. The CRGN are a group of bacteria that are resistant to carbapenem antibiotics, which […]
02
Jun
Jun
Over 60% of breast cancer cases in India diagnosed at Stage 3 or 4: Report
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 month
- 0
- 3 min read
Breast cancer has emerged as the leading cancer among Indian women, with nearly 200,000 new cases diagnosed each year, according to a new report by the National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS). Titled “NAMS Task Force Report on Breast Cancer in India,” the study, published in the Annals of the National Academy of Medical Sciences, […]
30
May
May
FACT CHECK: Is the ‘7-Day No Food Challenge’ a safe weight loss method?
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 month
- 0
- 4 min read
CLAIM: “7-day no food weight loss challenge” can help you lose up to 10 kgs in just 7 days FACT: False. The “7 Days No Food Weight Loss Challenge,” claiming 10 kg weight loss in seven days is dangerous, unscientific, and unsustainable, risking severe health issues like electrolyte imbalances and organ damage, with weight loss primarily […]
30
May
May
Grassroots programme in Bihar boosts health literacy, combats health misinformation: The Mercury Project
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 month
- 0
- 4 min read
A grassroots training programme designed by The Mercury Project and conducted in partnership with DataLEADS and JEEViKA (Bihar Rural Livelihoods Promotion Society) “produced striking effects on students’ abilities to distinguish between true and false information,” especially when it comes to health information. The Bihar Information and Media Literacy Initiative (BIMLI), which targeted almost 14,000 school […]
29
May
May
FACT CHECK: Is your gut really a second brain?
- Allen Joe Mathew / 1 month
- 0
- 3 min read
Claim: Gut is our second brain Fact: True. The gut contains a complex nervous system and produces mood-related chemicals like serotonin, significantly influencing brain function, though it doesn’t “think” like the brain. The phrase “the gut is our second brain” has become increasingly popular in both scientific circles and social media. First Check […]
29
May
May
Each extra 10g of alcohol a day raises pancreatic cancer risk by 3%: Study
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 month
- 0
- 2 min read
Alcoholic drinks, especially beer and spirits, may raise the risk of pancreatic cancer, a new study has found. Pancreatic cancer ranks as the 12th most frequent cancer globally and carries a high death rate, particularly when detected late. In 2022, it was responsible for 5% of all cancer fatalities worldwide. Published in PLOS Medicine, the […]
28
May
May
FACT CHECK: Is Robert Kennedy Jr. right about no evidence for COVID shots in healthy children?
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 month
- 0
- 5 min read
COVID-19 vaccines are no longer recommended for healthy children and pregnant women, US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced on Tuesday. In a 58-second video posted on X, he said, “I couldn’t be more pleased to announce that as of today, the COVID vaccine for healthy children and healthy pregnant women has been removed […]
28
May
May
International Day of Action for Women’s Health: Tech led solutions that are revolutionising women’s health
- Mariyam Alavi / 1 month
- 0
- 17 min read
Women’s health has been neglected, poorly studied and underfunded for far too long now. It is now well established that historically, women were excluded from most medical studies. They were conducted on men, and the data collected from them were generalized to women. In fact, many studies conducted on rodents too, excluded female rodents, as […]
28
May
May
Fact-Check: Can men’s poor hygiene during urination lead to UTIs in women?
- Allen Joe Mathew / 1 month
- 0
- 3 min read
Claim: Poor peeing hygiene habits in men can be a cause of UTIs in their female partners Fact: True. Lack of hygiene in men can cause UTIs in their female partners. Everyone should follow clean and safe sexual practices, and maintain hygiene at all times. Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are among the most common […]
27
May
May
Climate change fuels spread of deadly fungi, putting millions at risk: Study
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 month
- 0
- 3 min read
Climate change is fueling the spread of dangerous fungi, putting millions of people at risk of severe infections, according to a new study from the University of Manchester. The research warns that rising global temperatures and shifting weather patterns are enabling fungi like Aspergillus to thrive in new regions, threatening public health across Europe, Asia, […]
27
May
May
Your childhood environment could shape your mental health forever: Study
- First Check Team / 1 month
- 0
- 2 min read
Early-life stress (ELS) can deeply alter brain development and lead to long-lasting mental health problems, according to a new study published in Neuron. “Early-life stress is common and constitutes a strong risk factor for cognitive and mental health disorders,” says the study adding, however, that much remains unclear about how young brains perceive and respond […]
26
May
May
Fact Check: Can a drink made from garlic, lemon, and turmeric cure all diseases?
- Allen Joe Mathew / 1 month
- 0
- 3 min read
CLAIM: A drink made from garlic, lemon, turmeric, and pepper permanently boosts immunity and prevents all diseases, according to Barbara O’Neil FACT: False. No scientific evidence supports this claim, and O’Neil is banned in Australia for spreading dangerous health misinformation First Check came across a video of Barbara O Neil, the controversial Australian naturopath who […]
26
May
May
Fresh COVID concern: NB.1.8.1 variant found in US, after China, India surge
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 month
- 0
- 2 min read
A new COVID-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, linked to a significant surge in cases in China, has been detected among international travelers arriving at US airports, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) airport screening program. The variant, which has sparked global concern due to its rapid spread in Asia, was identified through the […]
25
May
May
Study links social media to teen depression
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 month
- 0
- 2 min read
Increased social media use among preteens may contribute to higher levels of depressive symptoms over time, a new study published in JAMA Network Open revealed. This cohort study, conducted by a team led by Jason M. Nagata from the University of California, San Francisco, tracked nearly 12,000 children aged 9 to 13 over three years, […]
23
May
May
Fact Check: Does turmeric cause cancer due to lead chromate adulteration?
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 month
- 0
- 3 min read
CLAIM: Turmeric can lead to cancer because it contains lead chromate FACT: Lead chromate’s carcinogenic properties make chronic exposure a concern, theoretically increasing cancer risk over time. However, the assertion that turmeric itself “causes cancer” is misleading, as it implies the spice is inherently dangerous. Proper sourcing and regulation can mitigate risks. First Check came […]
23
May
May
Taurine, an energy drink ingredient, doesn’t cause cancer but helps blood cancer cells grow
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 month
- 0
- 3 min read
Taurine, a popular amino acid found in energy drinks and supplements, could be driving the growth of leukemia, a type of blood cancer, according to a new study from the University of Rochester’s Wilmot Cancer Institute. Published in Nature, the research reveals that leukemia cells rely on taurine to fuel their aggressive spread, raising concerns […]
22
May
May
Toxic plastic chemical linked to 1 lakh heart deaths in India: Lancet study
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 month
- 0
- 2 min read
A common plastic-softening chemical, di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), caused 103,587 heart disease deaths in India in 2018, according to a Lancet eBioMedicine study. Found in food packaging, medical devices, and cosmetics, DEHP is fueling a health crisis in India, where plastic use is surging. The global study estimates DEHP exposure caused 356,238 heart disease deaths worldwide […]
22
May
May
Declining birth rates in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Delhi signals demographic shift
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 month
- 0
- 3 min read
The southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala and the capital, Delhi, are witnessing a dramatic decline in birth rates, dropping at more than twice the national average, according to the Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2021, released by the Registrar General of India last week. Driven by rising female education and socio-economic progress, […]
21
May
May
Explainer: What is trachoma and how India eliminated it
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 month
- 0
- 3 min read
India on Monday was awarded the Certificate of Elimination of Trachoma as a Public Health Problem by World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus at the 78th World Health Assembly held in Geneva. “This recognition is a testament to India’s sustained efforts in disease elimination, preventive healthcare, and commitment to ensuring health for […]
21
May
May
Fact-Check: Black plastics cause cancer and reduce lifespan
- Allen Joe Mathew / 1 month
- 0
- 3 min read
Claim: Black Plastics contain flame retardants which are carcinogens and can reduce one’s lifespan Fact: True. But the study which has been used as the reference for this claim also adds that “further studies are needed to replicate these findings and determine the underlying mechanisms.” An instagram video titled, “Stop Using Black Plastic – […]
20
May
May
Study links high poultry intake to increased risk of GI cancer death
- Allen Joe Mathew / 1 month
- 0
- 3 min read
Consuming more than 300 grams of poultry per week may significantly increase the risk of death from gastrointestinal cancers, according to a new population-based study conducted in southern Italy. The research, published in the journal Nutrients, analyzed data from nearly 5,000 adults enrolled in the two different cohort studies. Participants’ dietary habits were assessed using […]
20
May
May
Joe Biden’s prostrate cancer diagnosis: Indian doctor warns of growing risk at home
- Allen Joe Mathew / 1 month
- 0
- 3 min read
Former US President Joe Biden’s recent diagnosis of aggressive, advanced prostate cancer has brought global attention to the disease and its impact on men’s health. In India, prostate cancer is fast becoming a major concern, though awareness remains alarmingly low, warns Dr. Ramesh Sarin, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology, who has over three decades of experience […]
20
May
May
New WHO accord promises fairer, faster response to future pandemics
- First Check Team / 1 month
- 0
- 4 min read
Geneva: In a landmark move aimed at strengthening global defences against future pandemics, the World Health Organization (WHO) member states on Monday formally adopted by consensus the world’s first pandemic agreement. The decision, taken at the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, marks the culmination of over three years of intense negotiations triggered by the […]
19
May
May
New COVID-19 wave in Asia raises concerns for India
- Sneha Richhariya / 1 month
- 0
- 4 min read
A new wave of COVID-19 cases sweeping across Asian countries like Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand signals a threat to India, potentially triggering a fresh wave of infections. While Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand are experiencing surges in COVID-19 cases primarily due to waning immunity, India currently reports 257 active cases. This has […]
19
May
May
FACT CHECK: Stress doesn’t cause PCOS, CBD oil doesn’t cure it, fenugreek may help
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
- 0
- 4 min read
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) are complex hormonal disorders affecting millions of women globally, yet a lot of misinformation about their causes and treatments persist. First Check verified three such claims sent in by readers through our tipline, with insights from a medical expert. Claim 1: PCOS/PCOD is caused by stress […]
17
May
May
World Hypertension Day: Rising Stress, poor sleep, and addiction is fueling hypertension in youth, says expert
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 8 min read
World Hypertension Day, observed on May 17, aims to raise awareness about hypertension, a condition affecting millions globally and increasingly prevalent in India. Often called the “silent killer,” hypertension is the most significant chronic disease risk factor in India. According to recent epidemiological studies, hypertension is on the rise in India, with rural and youthful […]
16
May
May
National Dengue Day 2025: India steps up fight against mosquito-borne diseases
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
India is marking National Dengue Day on May 16 amid growing concerns over a potential surge in mosquito-borne diseases during the monsoon season. With the early onset of rains increasing the risk of infections like dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and yellow fever, the Union Health Ministry has directed all air, sea, and land ports to step […]
16
May
May
FACT CHECK: Is it safe to eat refrigerated food?
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
CLAIM: Refrigerating food is perfectly safe and doesn’t lead to nutrient loss or health issues if done right. FACT: True. Refrigeration at or below 40°F (4°C) slows down the growth of harmful bacteria, which can cause food-borne illness. Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If stored for too […]
15
May
May
Oxford study warns weight-loss injections may require lifelong use
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
Weight-loss injections, seen as a breakthrough for obesity treatment, may require lifelong use or need to be combined with major lifestyle changes to avoid regaining the lost weight, a new study by Oxford University researchers has revealed. The study, which examined data from 11 trials involving over 6,300 patients, found that while these drugs can […]
15
May
May
AI tool ‘FaceAge’ predicts cancer survival using just a photo
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
A new artificial intelligence (AI) tool called FaceAge can now use facial images to estimate an individual’s biological age and forecast survival in cancer patients with unprecedented accuracy. Detailed in a study published in The Lancet Digital Health titled “FaceAge, a deep learning system to estimate biological age from face photographs to improve prognostication: a […]
15
May
May
Spit tests show promise in early detection of Alzheimer’s and cancer: Study
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 2 min read
New research shows that our spit can reveal information about everything from cancer to neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s. This inexpensive, painless method of testing for severe diseases has the potential to revolutionize the way we keep an eye on our health. Saliva contains small amounts of proteins, DNA, and other chemicals that alter when a […]
14
May
May
AI accurately detects patient race from medical images – even when humans can’t: Study
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
Artificial intelligence systems can accurately identify a patient’s race from medical images even when clinical experts cannot, according to new research that raises concerns about potential bias in healthcare applications. A study published in the European Heart Journal – Digital Health found that AI models trained on cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging could reliably classify […]
14
May
May
1.5 billion children born after 2020 face lifetime heatwave exposure: Study
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
Over half of children born during 2020 and after will experience significantly more extreme weather events during their lifetimes than previous generations, even if global warming is limited to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, according to a latest study published in Nature. The international study titled “Global emergence of unprecedented lifetime exposure to climate […]
14
May
May
What triggers high uric acid levels? Genetics, diet, and more explained by an expert
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 4 min read
High uric acid levels, known as hyperuricemia, occur when your body produces excess uric acid or your kidneys struggle to eliminate it. This can trigger gout, a painful condition with swollen joints, often in the big toe, caused by uric acid crystal deposits. But what causes these levels to rise? How can you spot the […]
13
May
May
STUDY: Teens with mental health conditions spend more time on social media
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
Adolescents with clinical mental health conditions use social media differently than their peers without such conditions, spending significantly more time online and experiencing greater dissatisfaction with their virtual social connections, according to research published earlier this month, in Nature Human Behaviour. The researchers from University of Cambridge analyzed data from 3,340 British adolescents aged 11 […]
13
May
May
Kidney expert Dr Vijay Kher warns: Hydration is key in ‘stone season’
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
As temperatures climb across the country, it also heralds the arrival of what many doctors call “stone season” – the time of year when cases of painful kidney stones spike due to increased dehydration. The Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology had estimated that during summers, “there is a sharp increase in the number of […]
13
May
May
Myopic CNVM: Journalist shares journey with condition that could potentially lead to irreversible vision loss
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 6 min read
In December 2024, Rituparna Chatterjee, a senior journalist and editor, noticed something alarming: straight lines appeared wavy, words looked distorted as if viewed through a thick glass bottle, and a gray patch clouded the center of her right eye’s vision. Rushing to a doctor, she underwent a series of tests, only to receive a devastating […]
12
May
May
New WHO action plan aims to make clinical trials fairer and more inclusive
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 2 min read
The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a new Global Action Plan for Clinical Trial Ecosystem Strengthening (GAP-CTS), aiming to improve clinical trials worldwide. The plan focuses on making trials fairer, more inclusive, and better suited to local needs, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This comes after WHO’s 2024 guidelines for clinical trials […]
12
May
May
Caring like a daughter: Manipur nurse’s story highlights India’s nursing woes
- First Check Team / 2 months
- 0
- 7 min read
Watching her mother’s health struggles while growing up made Hoilenchong Sitlhoum from Manipur choose nursing as her career. “At that time, it was difficult to get doctors and nurses… We did not even have someone to give injections in emergencies also. So I decided then itself that I would become a nurse,” she said, speaking […]
09
May
May
FACT CHECK: Do eggs feed viruses or cause chronic illnesses?
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
CLAIM: Eggs feed viruses and bacteria in the body and worsen chronic illnesses such as eczema, PCOS, and endometriosis FACT: False. Eggs are a nutrient-rich food with no scientific link to promoting viruses or causing chronic illnesses A health coach, Theo Bergmann claims in an Instagram video that eggs are the “most overrated health food,” […]
09
May
May
STUDY: Overuse of CT scans poses significant long-term cancer risk
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 4 min read
Repeated exposure to unnecessary computed tomography (CT) scans may pose a significant cancer risk, a recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine has found. The research estimates that CT scans performed in the United States in 2023 could lead to approximately 103,000 future cancer diagnoses, accounting for nearly 5% of all new cancer cases in […]
08
May
May
Brown rice has more arsenic than white: Study
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
Brown rice contains higher levels of arsenic, a toxic chemical element, compared to white rice, raising concerns about long-term health risks, including cancer, according to a study from Michigan State University (MSU). The study published in the journal Risk Analysis led by senior investigator Felicia Wu, John A. Hannah, distinguished professor at MSU’s College of […]
08
May
May
Older adults overlooked in HIV fight: Lancet study
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
HIV prevention campaigns have remained focussed on the young, driven by outdated risk perceptions, even as infections are rising among older adults, a Lancet Healthy Longevity study has revealed. The research, led by Dr. Luicer Olubayo from the Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience at Wits University, highlighted that HIV prevalence among adults over 50 […]
07
May
May
FACT CHECK: Are women at a lower risk for heart attack?
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
- 0
- 5 min read
CLAIM: Heart Diseases are directly connected to the sex of a person, with females being at lower risk. FACT: Largely true; while it is true that heart disease is more prevalent in men than women, there are some nuances that should not be ignored either. First Check came across a video on YouTube titled […]
07
May
May
India climbs to 130 in global human development index: UNDP report
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
Global progress in human development has slowed to its weakest pace in 35 years but India has improved its Human Development Index (HDI) rank to 130 out of the 193 countries surveyed in 2023, reveals the UNDP’s Human Development Report, released on Tuesday. Previously India was at the 133rd position, the gain has been driven […]
06
May
May
FACT CHECK: Is folic acid harmful as Barbara O’Neill claims?
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
Barbara O’Neill, a prominent figure in alternative medicine circles, has urged women to reconsider using folic acid supplements, claiming that excessive intake may pose health risks. Posting on X, she advises that nutrients should be obtained from food rather than pills. “Think twice before reaching for your folic acid supplement,” she warns, suggesting that isolated […]
06
May
May
World Asthma Day: Dr GC Khilnani on tackling India’s asthma crisis with awareness and innovation
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 8 min read
India is home to close to 3.5 crore people with asthma, a chronic respiratory condition affecting over 25 crore people worldwide. This means that 1 in every 50 people in the country has Asthma. In its national capital, Delhi, the rates are even more alarming, with up to 29.4% of children affected, driven largely by […]
05
May
May
India global leader in cardiovascular deaths linked to plastics, study in The Lancet finds
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
- 0
- 4 min read
According to a new study in The Lancet eBioMedicine, India saw over 1 lakh of cardiovascular deaths attributable to plastic polymers and their chemical additives, the highest in the world. This once again highlights how everyday items such as plastic containers, toys, cosmetics, and even food packaging may be silently endangering millions of lives in […]
05
May
May
Experts warn BMI no longer a reliable health indicator, urge better metrics
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
For years, Body Mass Index (BMI) has been the standard tool for assessing whether an individual has a healthy weight. But doctors are now referring to it as an outdated and an often-misleading metric. BMI is a rough guide doctors use to check if a person’s weight is in a healthy range for their height. […]
05
May
May
How to cut microplastics from your food and water
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 2 min read
Microplastics—plastic fragments smaller than 5 millimetres—have entered food, water, and even our bodies, transforming an environmental crisis into a personal health challenge. As this challenge mounts, can you remove microplastics from your food and water? Scientists are uncovering practical ways to minimise microplastic exposure. Can boiling water get rid of microplastics? Boiling water is often […]
02
May
May
Semaglutide marks breakthrough in reversing fatty liver disease: expert
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
A new potential treatment for fatty liver disease is making waves after initial results from a clinical trial showed that nearly two in three patients reduced liver fat and inflammation with weekly semaglutide injections over 18 months. Published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the ongoing trial offers hope for millions battling Metabolic Dysfunction–Associated […]
02
May
May
STUDY: Same-arm vaccine shots help your body fight off infection faster
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
- 0
- 2 min read
Getting a COVID-19 booster shot in the same arm as the initial vaccine dose may significantly speed up the body’s immune response, according to new research from Sydney, Australia, published in the journal Cell. The study, led by scientists at Sydney’s Garvan Institute of Medical Research and the Kirby Institute at UNSW Sydney, reveals how […]
02
May
May
FACT CHECK: Is finasteride really better than minoxidil for hair loss?
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
CLAIM: Finasteride is better than minoxidil for hair loss FACT: Partly true. Studies do show that finasteride has produced better results than minoxidil, but both have different uses. Finasteride is useful to maintain existing hair and minoxidil is used to stimulate hair follicles for new hair. Finasteride and minoxidil are the two most […]
01
May
May
Supreme Court orders inclusive KYC for blind and acid attack survivors
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court on Wednesday declared digital access a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution, issuing 20 directives to ensure the Know-Your-Customer (KYC) process is accessible for visually impaired individuals and acid attack survivors with eye or facial disfigurements. The judgment, delivered by Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan, […]
01
May
May
STUDY: Is your biological age more than your chronological age? It may raise dementia risk
- First Check Team / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
People whose biological age is higher than their chronological age may be more likely to develop dementia than people whose biological age matches or is lower than their chronological age, according to a study published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. “Biological age is based on biomarkers of aging such […]
30
Apr
Apr
FACT CHECK: Vaccines may reduce lifespan, a prominent CEO and YouTuber falsely claims
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
CLAIM: A well-known CEO and YouTuber suggests that taking vaccines could shorten a person’s life FACT: False, multiple studies have highlighted the benefits of vaccines and how they have contributed to increasing longevity across the world The founder and CEO of Bombay Shaving Company, Shantanu Deshpande recently posted on LinkedIn mentioning “vaccines” as one […]
30
Apr
Apr
Measles returns: US sees worst outbreak in decades
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 2 min read
The United States is witnessing a significant measles outbreak, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting 884 confirmed cases in 30 states as of April 24, 2025. Measles was declared eliminated in the US in 2000. But a large outbreak in West Texas, where 646 cases and two child fatalities have driven […]
29
Apr
Apr
Vaccine hesitancy: The impending challenge to complete coverage
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
- 0
- 4 min read
Vaccines are known to save lives, with the World Health Organization estimating that immunisations “currently prevents 3.5 million to 5 million deaths every year from diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), influenza and measles.” However, despite the evidence about the efficacy and safety of vaccines, we are constantly plagued by myths and misinformation about […]
29
Apr
Apr
Delhi launches ₹10 lakh health scheme for seniors aged 70+
- Sneha Richhariya / 2 months
- 0
- 2 min read
The Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana, a health insurance scheme, launched by the Delhi government on Monday offers free medical treatment of up to ₹10 lakh yearly for citizens aged 70 and above. What is the health scheme about? The Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana is an extension of the central government’s Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan […]
29
Apr
Apr
STUDY: Young need meat, older adults need plants for longevity
- First Check Team / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
Switching from animal-based to plant-based protein affects people differently depending on their age, a study published in the journal Nature has found. Researchers analyzed data from 101 countries between 1961 and 2018 to understand how changing diets could impact health. They found that “after adjusting for time, population size, and economic factors, we find associations […]
28
Apr
Apr
World Immunization Week: Vaccinations beyond childhood immunisations
- Allen Joe Mathew / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
To many vaccinations are something that you go through as children, with little to no focus on vaccinations that need to be taken in their later years. However, the scientific community is increasingly about talking about adult vaccinations and a life-course approach to vaccinations, to ensure that protection against certain dangerous infectious diseases last beyond […]