Image of an elderly woman taking the empty Covid-19 vaccine is being circulated in India with a false pretense
Every day, millions of people search the internet for answers about their health — and every day, they’re met with conflicting information, sponsored content, and advice nobody can verify. AI is only speeding this up. The bigger issue underneath it all? Trust. So a few weeks ago, we turned that question back to you: what […]
Unsafe food causes an estimated 866 million illnesses and 1.5 million deaths worldwide each year, with young children bearing a disproportionate share of the burden, according to the latest report from the World Health Organization. The report found that children under the age of five, who make up just 9 per cent of the global population, […]
CLAIM: Eating papaya on an empty stomach in the morning may help improve digestion, reduce bloating, and support liver health due to its digestive enzymes, fibre, water content, and antioxidant-rich nutrients. The post also suggests that consuming papaya first thing in the morning may improve nutrient absorption and support overall metabolic and digestive wellness. FACT: […]
CLAIM: Not brushing your teeth at night may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease by allowing harmful oral bacteria and plaque to build up, potentially triggering inflammation and affecting blood vessels and heart health over time. The claim also suggests that maintaining proper oral hygiene may help support long-term cardiovascular health. FACT: Current research suggests […]
Remember ‘litti chokha’? And how it trended in the food business again, with people missing their hometown indulging in the soaked-in-ghee littis straight out of the koila (charcoal)? People often asked what the filling was made of. We all must agree how this filling – called ‘sattu’, or roasted gram flour, has made its entry […]
Kerala is on high alert after a 70-year-old man from Ernakulam died due to suspected West Nile fever. State health authorities have intensified surveillance after this became the second reported death linked to the mosquito-borne disease within a week. Residents have been urged to follow mosquito-control measures, and officials have warned that negligence in maintaining […]
Do you often brush off recurring headaches, forgetfulness, or brief episodes of blurred vision as stress, lack of sleep, or a busy schedule? While these symptoms are usually linked to everyday causes, doctors say that in some cases they may point to a more serious underlying condition, including a brain tumour. A brain tumour is […]
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 267 million adults aged 15 years and above in India – around 29 per cent of all adults – were tobacco users as per the Global Adult Tobacco Survey India 2016–17. While smokeless tobacco products such as khaini, gutkha, zarda, and betel quid with tobacco remain the […]
Mental health – something many people still hide, something we often give second thoughts to before discussing openly, and something society is still learning to understand better – is a deeply serious issue that needs to be part of public discourse more than ever before. Even as conversations around mental health grow, stigma still surrounds […]
West Bengal has seen a sharp rise in the number of cases with higher blood sugar levels that outnumber the national average among both men and women, according to the latest National Family Health Survey. As per the NFHS-6, 9.4 per cent of women in West Bengal fall in the ‘high’ blood sugar category (141–160 […]
A young couple from Bengaluru, *Priyanka, 31, and *Karthik, 33, (names changed on request), were healthy, happy, and excited to begin a family. With no symptoms or known family history of any serious illness, they assumed there was little to worry about. But during pre-conception testing at Nova IVF Fertility, doctors discovered that both partners […]
CLAIM: Storing lemon water, cumin water, or hot water in a copper bottle can be harmful because acidic ingredients and heat may react with copper and increase copper leaching into the drink. According to the viral claim, improper use of copper bottles could potentially make the water toxic and negatively affect health. FACT: True. […]
CLAIM: Repeating the number sequence “55515” while focusing on a painful sensation can make pain disappear or significantly reduce it. According to the viral reel, the sequence acts as a “quantum code” that sends a signal to the brain that the pain is temporary, causing it to diminish almost instantly. FACT: False. There is no […]
Kerala has long been considered one of India’s benchmark healthcare models. From high life expectancy and literacy levels to strong maternal and child health indicators, the state is often cited as a model for the rest of the country. But has Kerala managed to sustain that reputation in the years since NFHS-5? Are its people healthier today? […]
CLAIM: Eating a mixture of clove and cinnamon may improve insulin sensitivity, help regulate blood sugar levels, and reduce glucose spikes after meals. The claim also suggests that compounds in these spices can mimic insulin action, support pancreatic health, and reduce inflammation linked to metabolic disorders. FACT: Current research suggests cinnamon and clove may have […]
CLAIM: Eating yogurt regularly, especially three times a week, can improve vaginal health by up to 50% because of probiotic strains like Lactobacillus. The claim suggests that these probiotics help maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome and may lower the risk of infections such as bacterial vaginosis. FACT: Research suggests that probiotics found in yogurt, particularly […]
In a landmark achievement for India’s pharmaceutical industry, Wockhardt has received approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) for Zaynich (cefepime and zidebactam), a novel antibiotic designed to treat adults suffering from complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI), including kidney infections. The approval marks a significant breakthrough not only for the Mumbai-headquartered […]
I am often asked what “First Check” means. And I get it; it sounds self-explanatory enough. But first check… what, exactly? And how did that even become a name? The answer is simpler than you’d think. And also the whole story. Back in 2019, I would finish a long day at the hospital as […]
Have you ever noticed someone walking unevenly, struggling to sit comfortably, or suddenly pausing mid-step because of a sharp pain shooting down their leg? What many dismiss as “normal back pain” could actually be sciatica – a painful nerve condition that can quietly interfere with daily life, mobility, sleep, and even mental well-being. Sciatica is […]
The Supreme Court on Tuesday said that the right to trauma care is an integral part of the right to life guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution, and directed all states and Union Territories to integrate emergency and ambulance helpline numbers such as 100, 101, 102, 1033, 108 and 1091 into the single emergency number 112 […]
The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the global risk from cholera remains “very high” despite a decline in cases and deaths compared to the same period last year. In its latest Multi-country Outbreak of Cholera Epidemiological Update released on May 29, the WHO said that from January 1 to April 26, 2026, a […]
In India’s high-rise corporate offices and IT corridors, a quiet crisis is unfolding. It often begins with a familiar, nagging discomfort, like bloating, a symptom many women dismiss as late-night work meals, spicy food or work stress. A 2022 report by the World Cancer Research Fund ranked India second globally in ovarian cancer cases, with […]
CLAIM: Cinnamon may help reduce menstrual pain, cramping, nausea, and heavy bleeding. The claim also suggests that compounds in cinnamon can relax uterine muscle contractions, reduce prostaglandin activity linked to period cramps, and support menstrual health when consumed regularly. FACT: Current research suggests that cinnamon may provide mild relief from menstrual pain, cramping, nausea, and […]
Higher levels of fitness in middle age may do more than help people stay active; they could also delay chronic illness and extend life, according to a major new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. The study, titled “Midlife Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Healthy Aging: An Observational Cohort Study,” found that adults […]
For decades, most depression treatments have focused on reducing distress — easing sadness, anxiety, or fear. But a growing body of research suggests that what many patients are missing is not just relief from pain, but a return to joy. A new randomised clinical trial offers evidence that targeting positive emotions directly may be more […]
Vision problems are often dismissed as simple eye strain, fatigue, or the need for a new pair of glasses. But in some cases, sudden blurred vision, pain behind the eyes, or difficulty seeing colours may signal something far more serious happening deep within the nervous system. Doctors warn that optic neuritis – an inflammation of […]
Career goals, financial stability, relationships, marriage, motherhood, and the constant pressure of the ‘biological clock’ mean that fertility decisions for many women today are deeply personal, emotional, and often overwhelming. As more women choose to delay pregnancy for professional, medical, or personal reasons, conversations around fertility preservation are also becoming increasingly common. Among the options […]
As parts of Central Africa continue to battle fresh Ebola outbreaks, while concerns around hantavirus, mpox and avian influenza also remains active, a new international report has delivered a stark warning: the world may actually be becoming more vulnerable to future pandemics despite the painful lessons of COVID-19. Amidst these repeated outbreaks and growing fears around […]
For millions of people around the world, coffee is more than a morning ritual. It is comfort, conversation, habit, and increasingly, science suggests, it may also be a quiet ally in the fight against aging and chronic disease. A growing body of research is now shedding light on why regular coffee drinkers often appear to […]
As temperatures continue to soar across several parts of India, people are stepping out armed with sunscreens, umbrellas, water bottles, and every possible trick to survive the sweltering summer heat. But beyond dehydration, tanning, and exhaustion, experts say the rising temperatures may also be quietly affecting something far more serious – your blood pressure. Weather has long been […]
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) on Thursday issued an advisory on the Ebola virus, asking passengers arriving from or transiting through affected countries to immediately report to airport health officials if they feel unwell. The advisory comes a day after the Union health secretary chaired a high-level review meeting with states to assess preparedness […]
In a significant move to strengthen paediatric healthcare, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has, for the first time, introduced a structured and standardised national framework for the screening, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of diabetes in children. The newly released “Guidance Document on Diabetes Mellitus in Children,” unveiled at the National Summit on Best Practices in Public […]
CLAIM: Consuming 1–2 tablespoons of flax seeds daily can help balance hormones and regulate menstrual cycles. The post suggests that flax seeds can reduce PMS symptoms, cramps, and inflammation. FACT: Flax seeds contain lignans and omega-3 fatty acids that may support hormonal health, particularly by influencing estrogen metabolism and helping with mild symptoms like PMS […]
CLAIM: Eating excess sugar can accelerate skin ageing by damaging collagen through a process called glycation. This may make the skin less elastic, lead to earlier wrinkles, and contribute to a more aged appearance over time. FACT: Current scientific evidence suggests that excessive sugar intake may contribute to skin ageing through processes like glycation and […]
A promising new study suggests that blocking a single age-linked enzyme could help regenerate damaged cartilage, reduce pain and potentially transform treatment for osteoarthritis, a condition that affects mobility in millions of people worldwide. Researchers reported in Science that inhibiting the enzyme 15-hydroxy prostaglandin dehydrogenase (15-PGDH) led to substantial cartilage repair in both aged mice and younger […]
CLAIM: Snoring may contribute to brain damage and increase the risk of dementia. The post suggests that frequent, loud snoring – especially when linked to sleep apnea, can reduce oxygen supply, disrupt sleep, and over time negatively impact brain health and cognitive function. FACT: Snoring alone does not cause brain damage or dementia. However, loud and chronic […]
CLAIM: Drinking one cup of pomegranate juice daily can reduce artery blockages by up to 30 per cent. The post implies that its antioxidant properties can support better blood flow and contribute to preventing heart-related issues. FACT: Pomegranate juice contains antioxidants that may help improve heart health by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and cholesterol levels. However, scientific evidence does […]
For years, weight loss has largely been spoken about as a journey of discipline — eat less, move more, stay consistent. But for millions struggling with obesity, the reality is often far more complicated. People spend years moving between diets, workout plans, nutrition advice, and periods of frustration, only to find the weight returning again […]
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the latest Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda a “public health emergency of international concern”, as health authorities warn that the current strain has no approved vaccine or specific treatment. According to WHO, as of May 16, 246 suspected cases and 80 suspected […]
A major shift has taken place in women’s health terminology, with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) officially being renamed Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) following a global medical consensus published in The Lancet. The new name aims to better reflect the condition’s broader hormonal, metabolic and reproductive impact. For years, doctors and researchers argued that the […]
CLAIM: Aspartame, the artificial sweetener used in Diet Coke, has been declared a ‘possible carcinogen’ by the World Health Organization, raising concerns that consuming Diet Coke may increase cancer risk. FACT: While the WHO’s cancer research agency classified aspartame as ‘possibly carcinogenic’ in 2023, this was based on limited evidence and does not prove that […]
It usually begins the same way. A promise to start fresh on a Monday. A new diet chart saved on the phone. A gym membership that feels like a commitment to a better life. Weight loss – something most of us fall into at some point – comes with its own cycle of hope and […]
CLAIM: A viral reel claims that ethylene oxide, a carcinogen, was found in 19,000 kg of Domino’s pizza sauce, that McDonald’s uses human meat in its burgers, and that KFC adds harmful chemicals to its chicken that can damage the body. It suggests these are part of a larger attempt to normalise toxic food consumption and even cannibalism. FACT: There is […]
The World Health Organization confirms that heatwaves are becoming more intense and frequent as global temperatures continue to soar. In regions surrounding the Indian Ocean, the combination of rising carbon emissions and warmer sea temperatures has pushed humidity levels to sweltering levels of 38°C to 40°C. When the air feels this hot, you will try almost anything to […]
CLAIM: The viral reel claims that Inuspheresis therapy can ‘filter’ the blood and remove harmful substances like microplastics, heavy metals, oxidised cholesterol, and even spike proteins. It further suggests that this leads to reduced inflammation and noticeable health benefits such as improved mental clarity, reduced pain, and better overall well-being. FACT: Inuspheresis (a form of apheresis) can remove certain substances […]
There was a time when our choices felt simple – whatever our favourite celebrity endorsed became our favourite too. A packet of chips, a fizzy drink, or a mango juice wasn’t just food; it felt like a connection to someone we admired and believed in. We didn’t question ingredients, labels, or health. If they were […]
Over 100 passengers and crew members reportedly fell ill during a recent norovirus outbreak aboard the Caribbean Princess cruise ship | X More than 100 passengers and crew members reportedly fell ill during a recent norovirus outbreak aboard the Caribbean Princess cruise ship, once again drawing global attention to the highly contagious virus often called the “winter […]
The memories of the COVID-19 pandemic are still fresh, and amid continuing discussions around emerging infectious diseases, another virus — Hantavirus — has once again drawn global attention. The rodent-borne infection, known to cause respiratory, cardiac, and renal complications in humans, has sparked concern following reports of an outbreak aboard the luxury cruise ship MV […]
The ability to read a prescription label, understand a discharge summary, or know when a symptom warrants a doctor’s visit — these feel like basic life skills. But for nearly one in four adults across 40 countries studied by Economist Impact, they aren’t. And the consequences, a newly published policy brief argues, are devastating: poorer health outcomes, widening […]
Mangoes are an essential part of the Indian summer, often called the “king of fruits” for their rich taste and cultural significance. From fresh slices to shakes and desserts, they are enjoyed across households. However, because of their natural sweetness, many people, especially those living with diabetes, often worry whether eating mangoes can lead to […]
A new study published in The Journal of Nutrition has found that regular egg consumption may be linked to a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease – a progressive condition that affects memory, thinking, and daily functioning. The research draws on data from the long-running Adventist Health Study-2, analysing dietary habits and health outcomes among 39,498 […]
CLAIM: Eating dry fruits ‘randomly’ can increase the risk of kidney stones because they are high in oxalates, which may bind with calcium and form stones. It also claims that compounds like phytates in dry fruits can block mineral absorption, leading to nutrient deficiencies, and therefore, they should be consumed in a specific pattern. FACT: […]
In a significant move to strengthen paediatric healthcare, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has, for the first time, introduced a structured and standardised national framework for the screening, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of diabetes in children. The newly released “Guidance Document on Diabetes Mellitus in Children,” unveiled at the National Summit on Best Practices […]
Over the past few years, AI in healthcare has been a hot topic—no longer just a concept, but something people are actively trying out in their everyday lives. On one side, there are reports highlighting the benefits – the ease of access, faster responses, and the possibility of personalised care at scale. On the other, there are equally […]
As summer temperatures soar past 40°C in several Indian states, fermented foods such as idli, dosa, kanji and pakhala remain popular for their cooling effect and digestive benefits. But three recent incidents in Ahmedabad, Mayurbhanj and Bengaluru—linked to contaminated fermented dishes—have caused three deaths and sickened more than 250 people, raising fresh concerns over food safety during the […]
When we started First Check back in 2019, misinformation was already something we were worried about. But today, it feels very different. Information doesn’t just reach us anymore; it rushes at us. Through WhatsApp forwards, Instagram reels, YouTube videos, voice notes in family groups. And a lot of it, especially around health, sits in this […]
CLAIM: Interval walking, which alternates between slow and brisk walking, offers greater health benefits than the traditional 10,000-step approach. It is suggested that doing this regularly can improve cardiovascular health, mood, immunity, and overall fitness. FACT: Interval walking – alternating between brisk and slow-paced walking, can improve cardiovascular fitness, blood pressure, and metabolism when done consistently, and some […]
CLAIM: Higher sugar consumption leads to increased depression, suggesting a direct link between sugar intake and worsening mental health. FACT: Research shows that high sugar intake is associated with an increased risk of depressive symptoms, but it does not prove that sugar directly causes depression. The relationship is influenced by multiple factors such as overall […]
CLAIM: Placing an ice cube between the thumb and index finger can relieve migraine or severe headache pain by calming pain signals. The method is said to work through nerve pathways connected to the head and may reduce headache intensity without medication. FACT: Placing ice between the thumb and index finger (LI4/Hegu point) may provide […]
As temperatures climb across India, terms like “electrolyte imbalance” and “heat stroke” are increasingly entering everyday conversation. But beyond the buzzwords lies a serious public health risk, one that can escalate quickly if ignored. This explainer breaks down what electrolyte imbalance actually means, how it is linked to extreme heat, and what people can do […]
CLAIM: Face masks such as sheet masks and charcoal masks are unsafe for the skin and should not be used. The discussion also suggests that trending skincare masks like “bird poop masks” or “menstrual blood masks” are harmful and should be completely avoided. FACT: Scientific evidence does not support the claim that all face masks […]
“Is it AI?” has become one of the most frequently asked questions across comment sections and Twitter feeds today—a phrase that emerged naturally in the GenAI era of content consumption. But long before this wave of AI-generated material, another term had already entered public discourse: deepfakes. The words “deepfake” and “AI-generated content” are routinely used […]
The World Health Organization (WHO) has prequalified the first-ever malaria treatment specifically designed for newborns and young infants, marking a major step in addressing a long-standing treatment gap for the most vulnerable patients. Announced ahead of World Malaria Day on April 25, the move clears the use of a tailored formulation of artemether-lumefantrine for babies […]
CLAIM: Eating ice cream in summer does not actually cool the body; instead, it may increase internal heat due to its high sugar and fat content. It is suggested that ice cream only provides temporary cooling, after which the body feels hotter and digestion may slow down. FACT: Ice cream may create a brief cooling […]
A late-night meal in Mumbai has turned into a disturbing tragedy, sparking fear and speculation around a common summer fruit – watermelon. Four members of a family died within hours of falling ill, in what police suspect to be a case of food poisoning. The incident, reported from the Pydhonie area, has drawn attention online, particularly over the […]
Vaccines have long stood as one of the most powerful and cost-effective tools in public health. Over the past five decades, they have saved an estimated 15 crore lives globally, protecting communities from diseases such as measles, polio, diphtheria, and rotavirus. Yet, despite overwhelming scientific evidence supporting their safety and effectiveness, vaccine hesitancy continues to pose a serious challenge. […]
Sweltering summers are tightening their grip across the country. On Saturday, Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 44.5°C, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), underscoring the intensity of this year’s heatwave. But beyond the discomfort, the rising mercury is increasingly becoming a serious public health concern – linked to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even life-threatening conditions […]
CLAIM: Heart attacks are common in bathrooms and can be triggered by improper bathing practices. Pouring water directly on the head is said to increase the risk, while following a specific sequence – starting from the feet, then the body, and finally the head- can help prevent such incidents. FACT: Scientific evidence shows that while […]
The Supreme Court of India on Monday issued a stern warning to the Union government, cautioning that failure to comply with its April 24 order allowing a 15-year-old Delhi girl to terminate her over 28-week pregnancy could invite contempt proceedings. The court made it clear that its directions were binding and must be implemented without […]
Asthma is one of the most common noncommunicable diseases worldwide. According to the World Health Organisation, an estimated 26.2 crore people were living with asthma in 2019, with over 4.5 lakh deaths globally. In India, the burden is even more striking. The Global Asthma Report 2022 estimates that nearly 3.5 crore people in the country are affected, placing India […]
Walk into any office complex, a chai stall outside a metro station, or even a small corner shop in a residential lane, and there’s almost always a familiar scene. Someone stepping out for a “quick smoke break,” another buying a pack “just for today,” and a group casually discussing how much of their salary disappears […]
CLAIM: Set of daily lifestyle habits – including drinking water first thing in the morning, eating fermented foods, engaging in “metabolic walking,” consuming cruciferous vegetables, and maintaining proper sleep- can significantly reduce cancer risk after the age of 50. FACT: Current research does not support the claim that these daily habits can directly prevent cancer after 50. While […]
CLAIM: CLAIM: Using aluminium utensils for cooking is dangerous and can cause cancer. The claim suggests that preparing food in aluminium cookware directly exposes people to carcinogenic risks, making it unsafe for everyday use. FACT: Aluminium can leach into food, especially when cooking acidic items or using low-quality utensils, but current scientific evidence does not […]
Lifestyle-related illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease and thyroid disorders have increased significantly in India over the past decade, while infectious diseases have declined, according to the latest nationwide health survey by the National Statistics Office (NSO). The survey found that nearly half of the population now reports cardiovascular and metabolic ailments, compared with […]
Vaccines have long been one of the most powerful tools in public health, “saving more than 15 crore lives over the past 50 years. This success, the WHO notes, has not been accidental but the result of ordinary people choosing “to protect themselves and their communities from diseases such as measles, diphtheria, pertussis, polio, and rotavirus.” With […]
The World Health Organization (WHO) South-East Asia Region on Friday called for stronger and sustained efforts to ensure vaccines reach every community, warning that millions of people remain unvaccinated despite decades of progress in immunization. WHO said vaccines have saved more than 154 million lives globally over the past 50 years, including an estimated 38 […]
Malaria during pregnancy can pose serious risks not only to the mother but also to the unborn child, increasing the chances of complications such as anaemia, low birth weight, stillbirth, and in severe cases, maternal and fetal death. Despite being preventable and treatable, experts warn that lack of awareness and persistent myths often delay timely […]
For decades, scientists believed that how long we live was largely shaped by environment, lifestyle, and sheer chance, with genetics playing only a modest role. But a new study published in Science by researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science overturns that assumption, suggesting that genes may account for around 50 per cent of human lifespan, […]
Deepika Padukone is all set to embrace motherhood once again at the age of 40, bringing renewed attention to conversations around second pregnancies and maternal age. She and Ranveer Singh recently shared the news on Instagram, posting a heartwarming picture of their daughter, Dua, holding a positive pregnancy test kit. The couple had welcomed their first child on […]
CLAIM: Using fluoride toothpaste daily can lead to thyroid problems by interfering with iodine absorption. The reel suggests that excessive fluoride exposure may disrupt thyroid function, particularly in women, and that these issues can be reversed through simple dietary changes without medication. FACT: There is no strong scientific evidence that using fluoride toothpaste causes thyroid […]
In an undercover investigation, BBC Eye discovered an extensive trail of medical malpractice, institutional lack of accountability, and regulatory failure at the Tehsil Headquarter (THQ) Hospital in Taunsa, Punjab, Pakistan, a facility now linked to a major HIV outbreak among children. The probe began after a local doctor raised concerns in 2024. Even though the local authorities […]
CLAIM: Natural fabrics like cotton and linen can improve mood, focus, and overall mindset, while synthetic fabrics may negatively affect how a person feels. The post suggests that clothing choices can influence productivity, decision-making, and even success in life. FACT: Scientific studies show that fabric can influence comfort, thermal regulation, and even short-term emotional […]
Liver disease is emerging as a major public health concern in India, often going unnoticed until it reaches advanced stages. Despite being largely preventable and manageable in its early phases, it continues to contribute significantly to mortality and disease burden. According to global estimates, liver diseases account for nearly two million deaths annually, and India alone contributes to […]
In India, sunlight is available for most of the year, yet vitamin D deficiency continues to affect a large proportion of the population. As noted in a study, “Vitamin D deficiency prevails in epidemic proportions all over the Indian subcontinent, with a prevalence of 70%–100% in the general population.” Vitamin D is essential for overall health, supporting […]
With every leap in technology, a familiar debate resurfaces – what if it helps us, and what if it harms us? Artificial Intelligence sits right at the centre of this dilemma. Once, a quick Google search was our go-to for health concerns – typing symptoms, scrolling through links, and often self-diagnosing. Today, that behaviour has evolved. […]
CLAIM: Eating white rice on an empty stomach leads to rapid digestion and causes a quick spike in blood sugar levels because there is no other food present to slow down the process. This sudden rise in glucose is followed by a rapid drop in blood sugar, which may make a person feel hungry again […]
A life-saving cancer drug hailed as a breakthrough in modern medicine has become a symbol of a deeply unequal global health care system. A yearlong investigation by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) has revealed how Merck & Co. has maintained sky-high prices for its blockbuster drug Keytruda, effectively locking out patients worldwide while […]
A new study published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition has raised important questions about the long-term safety of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS), suggesting that their effects may extend beyond individual consumers to influence the health of future generations. Conducted in mice, the research demonstrates that commonly used sugar substitutes such as sucralose and stevia can alter gut microbiota, […]
Claim: Miracle cures for cancer, including fasting, chanting mantras and homemade juice, kill cancer cells and cure cancer. Fact: Cancer is not a single disease but a large group of diseases. There are many types of cancer treatment. Some people with cancer have only one treatment. But most people have a combination of treatments, such as surgery with chemotherapy and […]
CLAIM: Skipping breakfast significantly increases the risk of weight gain and obesity. People who do not eat breakfast are more likely to have belly fat, be overweight, and become obese compared to those who eat breakfast regularly. FACT: There is no strong scientific evidence that skipping breakfast directly causes obesity. While some studies show an […]
In a breakthrough that could reshape the future of family planning, scientists at Cornell University have taken a significant step toward developing a safe, reversible, and non-hormonal sa—long considered the ‘holy grail’ in reproductive health research. Published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the proof-of-principle study demonstrated that temporarily interrupting a key step in sperm production […]
Could the biggest threats to your health already be present, without you knowing it? Recent findings from the Health of the Nation 2026 report by Apollo Hospitals underscore why preventive health checks are becoming essential for early detection and better disease outcomes. Notably, among individuals under 30 who underwent screening, more than half were found to […]
CLAIM: Post-meal walks can significantly lower blood sugar levels and help prevent diabetes. Regularly walking for 10 minutes after meals improves digestion and may stop a person from developing diabetes altogether. FACT: Post-meal walks can help lower blood sugar spikes and improve glucose control, with studies showing benefits even from short walks of 10–30 minutes. […]
CLAIM: Emotions are stored permanently in the body and directly affect specific organs, eventually leading to physical illnesses. Suppressed feelings over time can even alter cells and DNA, causing serious diseases like cancer. Simple emotional states like anger, fear, or financial stress are linked to damage in particular body parts. FACT: Emotions can influence physical health […]
How well has the LDF government kept its health promises since the last election? A fact-checked scorecard The newly dubbed state of Keralam has long been celebrated for strong public health care. With Assembly elections just around the corner, we decided to review the state’s health care initiatives over the last five years and see how the claims hold […]
CLAIM: Eating French fries can be more dangerous than smoking cigarettes, particularly because of the repeated use of oil that may generate harmful trans fats. FACT: There is no scientific evidence that eating French fries is more dangerous than smoking cigarettes. Research and experts highlight that while both can harm health, they do so in […]
Liver diseases in children are often overlooked, largely because their early symptoms can be subtle or easily mistaken for common illnesses. Yet, these conditions can significantly impact a child’s growth, development, and overall health if left undiagnosed. From infections and genetic disorders to metabolic and autoimmune conditions, more than 100 types of liver diseases can affect […]
Vaccination remains one of the most effective scientific tools for preventing disease and saving lives. Since the launch of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) in 1974, and its evolution into India’s Universal Immunization Programme (UIP), we’ve come a long way in safeguarding communities across generations. Today, vaccines prevent an estimated 3.5 to 5 million deaths every year, protecting […]
Menopause brings a significant shift in metabolic health, one that increases the risk of fatty liver disease in women. Research suggests that declining oestrogen levels after menopause contribute to fat redistribution, insulin resistance, and liver fat accumulation. A 2021 study notes that “the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease increases significantly in patients experiencing premature ovarian insufficiency, as […]