No, nurses are not purposely administering empty COVID-19 vaccines
- Sahil Bali / 5 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
18
Sep
Sep
Do seed oils really cause brain damage and fatty liver? Here’s what studies say
- Arijit Gupta / 24 hours
- 0
- 6 min read
CLAIM: An Instagram reel claims that seed oils, including corn oil, canola oil, vegetable oil and cottonseed oil, are more dangerous to the body than alcohol, sugar, meat or butter. It states that these oils contain hexane, “a chemical that’s actually found in gasoline,” and that they cause brain damage, fatty liver and inflammation, urging […]
18
Sep
Sep
What is targeted therapy? What Nafisa Ali’s cancer treatment means
- Arijit Gupta / 1 day
- 0
- 5 min read
Veteran actor and former beauty queen Nafisa Ali Sodhi has revealed that her ovarian and peritoneal cancer has progressed, with a recent PET/CT scan showing new deposits on the surface of her liver. Ali, who was crowned Miss India in 1976 before going on to a career in films, took to Instagram to share that […]
17
Sep
Sep
Think vaccines are only for children? Here’s what adults may need
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 days
- 0
- 5 min read
Vaccination is often associated with childhood, but protection against infections remains important throughout adulthood. As people grow older, immunity against some infections may decrease, while the risk of complications from certain diseases can increase. Adults may also face new risks because of their occupation, travel, lifestyle or underlying health conditions. For a healthy adult in […]
17
Sep
Sep
Centre tightens rules on stem cell therapy, restricts use to approved conditions
- Arijit Gupta / 2 days
- 0
- 3 min read
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has directed states and Union Territories to strictly regulate stem cell therapy, making clear that the treatment can be offered as routine clinical care only for diseases and conditions approved by the government. The advisory, issued on September 17, follows a January 30, 2026, Supreme Court judgment […]
16
Sep
Sep
India may have recorded nearly 566,000 stillbirths in 2023, study estimates
- First Check Team / 3 days
- 0
- 4 min read
India may have recorded an estimated 565,900 stillbirths in 2023 among pregnancies of 22 weeks’ gestation or longer, according to a new analysis published in The Lancet Regional Health – Southeast Asia. The estimate is substantially higher than the 347,300 stillbirths estimated when only fetal deaths at 28 weeks or later are counted, the threshold […]
16
Sep
Sep
Flu, COVID and RSV vaccines cut risk of hospitalisation, new review finds
- Arijit Gupta / 3 days
- 0
- 4 min read
A new research has found that flu, COVID-19 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccines continue to give strong protection against hospital admission and death, especially among older adults, infants and pregnant women. The review was carried out by the Vaccine Integrity Project, which is based at the University of Minnesota’s Center for Infectious Disease Research […]
15
Sep
Sep
Very hot tea and coffee linked to 3-fold higher risk of oesophageal cancer: Oxford study
- Sakshi Srivastava / 4 days
- 0
- 9 min read
Before you grab your favourite hot tea or coffee, think about how hot you are drinking it. A new University of Oxford study involving nearly 1 million UK adults found that people who preferred their tea or coffee very hot had about three times the risk of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) compared with those […]
15
Sep
Sep
Does one Diet Coke a day really triple your dementia risk?
- Arijit Gupta / 4 days
- 0
- 5 min read
CLAIM: An Instagram post claims drinking one Diet Coke daily makes people nearly 3x more likely to develop dementia, citing a 2017 study. It notes possible links via gut bacteria, insulin response, and eating habits, while acknowledging the studies show association, not proof of direct causation, and that other lifestyle factors may contribute. FACTS: Scientific […]
14
Sep
Sep
444 million and counting: Why India’s second-hand smoke problem is really two problems
- Arijit Gupta / 5 days
- 0
- 8 min read
For millions of Indians, especially women in rural households, the smoke damaging their lungs may not come from just one source. It may come from a cigarette or bidi smoked by someone else in the home. It may also come from the wood, dung or crop waste used for cooking. And in some households, both […]
14
Sep
Sep
Colon cancer deaths are rising in younger adults in the US: What does this mean for India
- Arijit Gupta / 5 days
- 0
- 6 min read
Colorectal cancer has overtaken every other cancer as the leading cause of cancer death among Americans under the age of 50, according to a major new report released by the American Cancer Society. The report, published in March 2026 in the journal CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, paints a troubling picture of a disease […]
11
Sep
Sep
Does this turmeric and ginger drink really kill parasites?
- Arijit Gupta / 1 week
- 0
- 4 min read
CLAIM: An Instagram reel claims that a morning drink made of warm water, turmeric, black pepper, cayenne, lemon juice, and grated ginger, taken daily on an empty stomach, can “detox” the entire body of parasites within seven days by giving the gut a complete reset. FACT: Recent research shows ginger and turmeric can shift the […]
11
Sep
Sep
Baby crying for hours every evening? It may not be what you think
- Sakshi Srivastava / 1 week
- 0
- 9 min read
CLAIM: A baby’s prolonged crying, particularly in the evening, may not always indicate acid reflux or cow’s milk protein intolerance. It may instead be part of the normal “witching hour”, a period of increased fussiness and crying commonly seen during early infancy. FACT: True. Prolonged or evening crying can be a normal part of early […]
10
Sep
Sep
Pankaj Tripathi spends 30 minutes eating every meal: Is there a health benefit?
- Arijit Gupta / 1 week
- 0
- 4 min read
CLAIM: Actor Pankaj Tripathi, in an FSSAI “Eat Right India” video, says he now takes 30 minutes to eat, focusing solely on food, savouring each bite mindfully, and treating meals with gratitude and reverence, like worship. He claimed that slow, distraction-free, mindful eating for a set duration benefits health and digestion. FACT: Research shows that […]
10
Sep
Sep
Ordering groceries online? You may not know when they expire
- Sakshi Srivastava / 1 week
- 0
- 9 min read
With diminishing trust in the food around us, checking labels has become increasingly important. Yet, when shopping online, consumers often cannot see key information such as a product’s Best Before or Use By date before placing an order. A recent LocalCircles survey found that 48% of Indian online grocery shoppers surveyed still could not find […]
09
Sep
Sep
Abhayrab rabies vaccine batch flagged over potency concerns: What patients should do
- Sakshi Srivastava / 1 week
- 0
- 7 min read
India’s drug regulator has flagged a batch of the widely used rabies vaccine Abhayrab as substandard and potentially spurious after it failed a potency test, according to a government document. The development comes less than two years after concerns were raised about counterfeit Abhayrab doses in India, a country that reports nearly 6,000 rabies deaths […]
09
Sep
Sep
Twinkle Khanna says this DIY wash removes pesticides. Does it?
- Arijit Gupta / 1 week
- 0
- 4 min read
CLAIM: A viral reel by Twinkle Khanna suggests a DIY pesticide wash: mix 1 cup vinegar + 2 cups water + 1 tbsp baking soda, soak 5–10 minutes, scrub, then rinse. FACT: Studies show pesticide residue reduction varies by method, ranging from under 50% to over 90%. Running water and boiling tend to work best, […]
08
Sep
Sep
Did WHO really warn that 87% of Indians could develop cancer by 2035?
- Kaushiki Goel / 2 weeks
- 0
- 3 min read
Claim: An X user claims that 87% of people in India will develop cancer by 2035 due to consumption of adulterated milk. It claims that 68.7% of milk and milk products sold in India are adulterated. Fact: False. The WHO has clarified that it has not issued any advisory to the Indian government. An […]
08
Sep
Sep
National Nutrition Week: India’s child malnutrition gains mask a deeper diet crisis
- Arijit Gupta / 2 weeks
- 0
- 7 min read
As India observes National Nutrition Week, the latest government survey shows that child malnutrition remains widespread, even as some indicators have improved over the past five years. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6), released this year and covering 2023-24, found that 29.3% of Indian children under five are stunted, or too short for their age. […]
07
Sep
Sep
Is 10,000 steps is a magic number or what actually matters?
- Abdullah Al Soad / 2 weeks
- 0
- 6 min read
Between the shopping malls, the office desk and the evening commute, most of us have heard the same magical instruction that hit 10,000 steps or the day doesn’t count. The original 10,000 steps a day goal originated in 1965 as a Japanese marketing gimmick to sell a pedometer called Manpo-kei (which translates to “10,000-steps meter”). […]
07
Sep
Sep
FACT CHECK: Does salt under the tongue cure a headache in 5 minutes?
- Arijit Gupta / 2 weeks
- 0
- 5 min read
CLAIM: An Instagram post claims that placing a pinch of sea salt under the tongue, then drinking water, cures headaches in 5 minutes, claiming sodium restores electrolyte balance, reduces brain blood vessel swelling, and stops migraine pain signals. It also links dehydration/electrolyte loss to headaches generally. FACTS: There is no evidence that salt under the […]
03
Sep
Sep
FACT CHECK: Is consuming papaya unsafe during pregnancy?
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 weeks
- 0
- 7 min read
CLAIM: Ripe papaya is safe during pregnancy, while raw or unripe papaya should be avoided because it contains latex. FACT: It is too broad to say that papaya is unsafe during pregnancy. The concern mainly relates to raw or unripe papaya, which contains higher amounts of latex that has been shown to stimulate uterine contractions […]
03
Sep
Sep
FACT CHECK: Can a cinnamon, lemon and honey drink fix your blood sugar and energy levels?
- Arijit Gupta / 2 weeks
- 0
- 5 min read
CLAIM: An Instagram reel claims that a morning drink of cinnamon, lemon juice, and raw honey mixed in water can lower blood sugar, restore energy, and help “your clothes fit better.” FACT: Studies show cinnamon may modestly affect insulin and glucose responses under controlled dosages, not through water infused with a teaspoon of it. Experts […]
03
Sep
Sep
Severe anaemia in pregnancy more than triples stillbirth risk, finds study of 2 lakh Indian women
- Arijit Gupta / 2 weeks
- 0
- 9 min read
A large study of over 2 lakh pregnant women across India has found a strong link between anaemia and stillbirth risk, with severe anaemia carrying the greatest danger. The study was published in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia by researchers from the University of Oxford, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and the […]
02
Sep
Sep
Trust in the age of AI: Healthify’s Tushar Vashisht on data, safety and the future of digital health
- Arijit Gupta / 2 weeks
- 0
- 5 min read
“Trust is not given by default. Trust is something that is earned, and there is no difference when it comes to AI,” said Tushar Vashisht, Co-founder and CEO of Healthify, formerly HealthifyMe, in a conversation with First Check LIVE. during the second dialogue in the Health and Trust in the Age of AI series, titled […]
02
Sep
Sep
‘The gut works tirelessly. Let’s give it the respect that is due to it’: Dr Anupam Sibal
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 weeks
- 0
- 7 min read
From intermittent fasting and probiotics to “gut detoxes” and so-called superfoods, nutrition advice is everywhere. Social media has turned food and gut health into a stream of competing claims – some rooted in science, others driven more by trends than evidence. But with so much advice at our fingertips, a basic question remains: what does […]
02
Sep
Sep
FACT CHECK: Does blue tea help with weight loss?
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 weeks
- 0
- 9 min read
CLAIM: The viral reel claims that blue tea made from butterfly pea flowers can support metabolism, assist with weight management and reduce cravings. It recommends drinking blue tea three times a day along with a healthy diet and exercise to support weight loss. FACT: Current evidence does not show that blue tea directly boosts […]
02
Sep
Sep
FACT CHECK: Is avocado toast making you gain weight despite its healthy image?
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 weeks
- 0
- 9 min read
CLAIM: Eating avocado toast can lead to weight gain because avocado, despite being a healthy source of fats and nutrients, is also high in calories. The reel suggests that large portions of avocado, calorie-dense bread and toppings such as cheese, along with drinks, can significantly increase the meal’s overall calorie content. FACT: Current evidence does […]
01
Sep
Sep
FACT CHECK: Do fruits after meals cause gas, bloating, or cramps?
- Sakshi Srivastava / 3 weeks
- 0
- 8 min read
CLAIM: Eating fruits immediately after a meal can cause gas, bloating and stomach cramps. The reel claims that consuming large amounts of fruit, particularly fruits high in fructose or sorbitol, or combining several fermentable foods, can increase digestive discomfort. FACT: Misleading. Eating fruit after a meal does not inherently cause gas, bloating or stomach cramps, […]
01
Sep
Sep
10-minute medicine delivery: How safe is it to order prescription drugs from Blinkit and Zepto?
- Arijit Gupta / 3 weeks
- 0
- 6 min read
Ash, a 22-year-old gender studies student from South Delhi, has been receiving psychiatric treatment and taking medication as part of it. “I have been a long-time consumer of medicines related to my anxiety,” he said. “Although I don’t get the medicines prescribed by my doctor online, sometimes I do order over-the-counter medicines, which I used […]
01
Sep
Sep
Can turmeric really erase years of knee pain?
- Arijit Gupta / 3 weeks
- 0
- 5 min read
CLAIM: An Instagram post by longevity physician Dr Darshan Shah claims warm turmeric paste on knees nightly can break down years of joint inflammation, enabling pain-free movement. It cites “15 randomized trials, 1,670 patients” showing curcuminoids significantly reduce knee pain versus placebo, rivalling anti-inflammatory drugs, calling this “not folklore.” FACT: Turmeric supplements, taken orally, may […]
31
Aug
Aug
Does sleeping with your phone near you cause brain cancer or lower sperm count?
- Arijit Gupta / 3 weeks
- 0
- 6 min read
CLAIM: An Instagram post claims phones emit radio frequency (RF) energy that increases brain cancer/tumour risk and lowers sperm counts, especially when kept near the head or on the bed while sleeping. It advises keeping phones off the bed. FACT: False. Large-scale research has consistently found no link between mobile phone use and brain cancer. […]
31
Aug
Aug
Air pollution linked to millions of cancer cases worldwide, study finds
- Arijit Gupta / 3 weeks
- 0
- 5 min read
A large international study has found that long-term exposure to common air pollutants is linked to millions of cancer cases worldwide each year, with women facing higher risks than men for many types of the disease. The research, published in the journal Nature Health, looked at more than 100 million cancer cases recorded across 952 […]
31
Aug
Aug
H1N1 Cases: Why doctors say ‘don’t take antibiotics’ without advice
- Sakshi Srivastava / 3 weeks
- 0
- 7 min read
India is seeing a rise in seasonal influenza, with H1N1 accounting for much of the increase in influenza A infections. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has urged people to avoid self-medication with antibiotics and antivirals, warning that unnecessary use of medicines during the current flu surge can cause harm and contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). […]
25
Aug
Aug
Positive beliefs about ageing linked to better mental and physical health in older adults: study
- Arijit Gupta / 4 weeks
- 0
- 6 min read
A new study has found that older adults who had more positive beliefs about ageing were more likely to show improvement in their cognitive and physical functioning over time, challenging the widespread assumption that growing old means inevitable decline. The study published in the journal Geriatrics, conducted by researchers at Yale University, tracked about 11.314 […]
24
Aug
Aug
Delhi reports rise in H1N1 cases: What to know about symptoms, spread and prevention
- Sakshi Srivastava / 4 weeks
- 0
- 6 min read
Delhi has reported 1,777 cases of H1N1 influenza so far this year, including 114 new cases recorded on August 20, according to the latest Delhi government data. In all, the national capital has recorded 2,602 seasonal influenza cases in 2026, comprising 2,392 Influenza A cases and 210 Influenza B cases. H1N1 accounts for the largest […]
24
Aug
Aug
Chronic Kidney Disease diagnosed too late in India, says Parliament report; nephrologist explains why
- Arijit Gupta / 4 weeks
- 0
- 7 min read
A parliamentary committee has said that Chronic Kidney Disease has become one of the fastest-growing non-communicable diseases in the country, with a large number of patients diagnosed only after the disease has reached an advanced stage. The Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare, headed by Rajya Sabha member Ram Gopal Yadav, presented […]
21
Aug
Aug
FACT CHECK: Can ice cream really protect your heart?
- Arijit Gupta / 4 weeks
- 0
- 4 min read
CLAIM: An instagram post claims that eating ice cream can be a healthy food. It suggests that moderate consumption of it as part of a balanced diet might even help protect against heart disease. FACT: False. While ice cream contains some nutrients, studies suggest that high consumption can raise the risk of cardiovascular disease. Doctors […]
21
Aug
Aug
Why billions are living with undiagnosed brain disease
- Arijit Gupta / 4 weeks
- 0
- 6 min read
More than 3 billion people worldwide are living with a neurological condition, and fewer than one in three countries has a national policy to deal with the problem, according to the World Health Organisation’s first Global Status Report on Neurology, released in October 2025. The report estimates that in 2021, neurological disorders affected close to […]
21
Aug
Aug
FACT CHECK: Two kiwis before bed: Can this fruit really help you sleep faster?
- Arijit Gupta / 4 weeks
- 0
- 5 min read
CLAIM: An Instagram post claims that eating two kiwis before bed helps people fall asleep nearly 35 minutes earlier. It cites a Taipei Medical University study in which people with sleep problems eat kiwis nightly for four weeks and experience faster sleep onset, longer sleep duration and better sleep quality. FACT: False. Studies link kiwi […]
20
Aug
Aug
Bought cosmetics online? 4 in 10 consumers report counterfeit products; 26% report allergic reactions: Survey
- Sakshi Srivastava / 1 month
- 0
- 9 min read
Before you scroll and add your favourite cosmetic to your cart, excited to try a new shade, serum or skincare product, a recent survey is drawing attention to another side of India’s rapidly growing beauty market – counterfeit products and adverse reactions. A new national survey by LocalCircles found that 40% of consumers surveyed who […]
20
Aug
Aug
Karnataka plans first dedicated women’s health policy, menopause a key focus
- First Check Team / 1 month
- 0
- 3 min read
Karnataka is planning to introduce a dedicated Women’s Health Policy, with menopause set to be one of its key focus areas, according to reports. The proposed policy aims to improve awareness about menopause, promote early identification of symptoms and make healthcare and counselling more accessible to women during midlife. Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Minister […]
19
Aug
Aug
Apollo Hospitals launches 7-Day OPD services, extends doctor consultations to Sundays
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 3 min read
Apollo Hospitals has announced a new initiative called “Always Open. Always Here.” that will make outpatient services available on all seven days of the week, including Sundays. The private hospital chain said its emergency, critical care and inpatient services have always run round the clock. What changes now is that outpatient consultations, diagnostic tests, preventive […]
19
Aug
Aug
Could giving babies eggs earlier cut allergy risk? New study says yes
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 5 min read
Introducing eggs to babies earlier, rather than delaying them, may help reduce the risk of developing an egg allergy, a new Australian study has found. The study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, found that egg allergy prevalence among infants fell from 9.2% before updated feeding guidelines to 7.6% after recommendations began encouraging earlier introduction of eggs […]
18
Aug
Aug
FACT CHECK: Do warm feet really help you fall asleep 15-20 minutes faster?
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 6 min read
CLAIM: A viral Instagram reel claims warming the feet before bed, via socks or a heating pad, helps you fall asleep 15-20 minutes faster by triggering heat loss through dilated blood vessels, which lowers core body temperature. It claims cold feet delay sleep by 25 minutes and shorten deep sleep, citing “Swiss researchers from the […]
18
Aug
Aug
Doctors are seeing more patients, but fewer want to quit: survey
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 4 min read
More doctors and nurses are treating a larger number of patients than they were a year ago, yet a smaller share of them are thinking about leaving their jobs, according to a new global survey by Elsevier, a health information company. The report, called Clinician of the Future 2026, surveyed 2,757 doctors and nurses from […]
17
Aug
Aug
FACT CHECK: Does mixing fruit with milk curdle it and make it unhealthy?
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 4 min read
CLAIM: A popular podcast claimed that mixing most fruits with milk is unhealthy because fruit acids (like vitamin C) curdle milk, citing apples, oranges, and berries as examples, with an apple milkshake reportedly separating into layers after 30 minutes. It claimed only sweet, buttery fruits like mango and avocado are safe exceptions. FACT: Curdling occurs […]
17
Aug
Aug
FACT CHECK: Does hair on toes and knuckles really indicate healthy blood circulation?
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 4 min read
CLAIM: An Instagram post claims toe and knuckle hair is a positive indicator of healthy peripheral circulation and strong heart pumping to extremities. It states consistent blood flow keeps hair follicles active, signaling cardiovascular health and absence of arterial blockage. FACT: Toe or knuckle hair is not a reliable indicator of heart health or peripheral […]
17
Aug
Aug
India talks about mental health more than ever: Anisha Padukone says that’s not enough
- Sakshi Srivastava / 1 month
- 0
- 16 min read
Mental health is more than the absence of mental disorders; it is a state of well-being that enables people to cope with life’s stresses, realise their abilities and participate meaningfully in society. Yet in India, mental health remains a largely neglected dimension of healthcare. Government data suggests that around 15% of adults experience mental health […]
14
Aug
Aug
Can rice water really help with heavy periods and UTIs?
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 5 min read
CLAIM: An Instagram reel promotes a rice water drink, mixed with roasted cumin, dried mint, rock salt, lemon juice, and coriander, as an Ayurvedic remedy for “aggravated Pitta dosha.” It claims to help with heavy periods, painful urination, recurrent UTIs, excess body heat, sweaty hands/feet, and perimenopause symptoms, positioning it as a natural, low-cost alternative. […]
14
Aug
Aug
FACT CHECK: Do daytime naps really give you a bigger brain?
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 5 min read
CLAIM: A 2023 UK Biobank study published in Sleep Health, involving genetic data from 378,932 adults, found that habitual daytime nappers had a slightly larger total brain volume than non-nappers—equivalent to an estimated 2.6 to 6.5 years of younger brain ageing. However, daytime napping was not significantly associated with memory or reaction time. FACT: Multiple […]
13
Aug
Aug
FACT CHECK: Does eating noodles regularly affect your fertility?
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 5 min read
CLAIM: A viral Instagram post claims daily instant noodle consumption can silently harm fertility, citing high sodium, refined carbs, and unhealthy fats alongside low zinc, folate, omega-3s, and antioxidants. It suggests these deficiencies impair sperm/egg development and hormone balance, while a nutrient-rich diet improves fertility outcomes in both men and women. FACT: Animal studies […]
12
Aug
Aug
FACT CHECK: Can drinking clove water on an empty stomach really clear skin, boost immunity, and heal your liver?
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 5 min read
CLAIM: A viral Instagram reel recommends drinking clove water (4-6 cloves soaked in filtered water) daily on an empty stomach, claiming benefits for skin, digestion, immunity, joint pain, and liver health. It warns eugenol in cloves can be liver-toxic in excess, limits intake to 1 cup/day, yet calls it “safe” for a 7-day challenge. FACT: […]
12
Aug
Aug
Chandipura virus: Why outbreaks keep returning and what doctors know about the disease
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 5 min read
With Gujarat recording 35 laboratory-confirmed cases of Chandipura virus out of 184 suspected patients tested, with 22 deaths among children under 15, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare sent a National Joint Outbreak Response Team (NJORT) to the state on August 5 to strengthen the response to the contagion. The team has also […]
11
Aug
Aug
FACT CHECK: Do diet drinks really raise heart disease risk by 20%?
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 4 min read
CLAIM: A viral Instagram post cites a Chinese/UK Biobank study claiming 2+ litress/week of diet drinks raises atrial fibrillation risk by 20%, sugary drinks by 10%, while 1 litre/week of pure juice lowers risk by 8%. FACT: Studies have linked diet drink consumption to health risks beyond weight gain, including heart changes, kidney issues, […]
11
Aug
Aug
FACT CHECK: Does creatine really cut depression symptoms in women by 45% in just two weeks?
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 5 min read
CLAIM: An Instagram post cites a 2012 study claiming women on creatine plus antidepressants saw depression symptoms drop 45% in 2 weeks, 65% in 4 weeks, and 80% in 8 weeks, with 52% reaching remission. It also claims women store 70-80% less creatine than men, depleted further by menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. FACT: Creatine, long […]
10
Aug
Aug
Nearly 9 in 10 Delhi schools sit near a toxic site, making it the world’s most exposed capital: Report
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 5 min read
Ninety-one per cent of schools in Delhi were located within five kilometres of a documented toxic site, the highest proportion among the ten capital cities studied across the developing world, according to a new working paper from the Center for Global Development (CGD), a Washington and London-based research organisation. The report matched the locations of […]
10
Aug
Aug
FACT CHECK: Does chronic mouth breathing reduce oxygen delivery by 18% and age your face?
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 5 min read
CLAIM: An Instagram post claims chronic mouth breathing reduces oxygen delivery by 18%, causing dry mouth, tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. It also links mouth breathing to snoring, sleep apnea, daytime fatigue, cardiovascular problems, and altered jaw/facial development in children, urging early evaluation by dentists or paediatric specialists. FACT: False. Studies indicate […]
07
Aug
Aug
WHO’s cancer body classifies blood pressure drug hydrochlorothiazide, voriconazole and tacrolimus as carcinogenic to humans
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 4 min read
Three widely prescribed medicines have been classified as carcinogenic to humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the cancer research branch of the World Health Organization. The drugs are hydrochlorothiazide, a common blood pressure medicine; voriconazole, an antifungal drug; and tacrolimus, which is given to organ transplant patients to prevent rejection. The […]
07
Aug
Aug
Food, fasting & gut health: What does the science say?
- Dr Sabba Mehmood / 1 month
- 0
- 4 min read
Over the years, one topic has surfaced again and again—in conversations with patients, around family dinner tables, at community events, and more recently in my direct messages: food, gut health, and what it really means to eat well. That is hardly surprising. Nutrition science continues to evolve as new evidence emerges. At the same time, […]
07
Aug
Aug
Fact Check: Can humans really ‘think through the gut’ as Ravi Kishan claims?
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 5 min read
CLAIM: A viral podcast clip features MP Ravi Kishan claiming the gut, once called the “second brain,” is now the “first brain.” He says people think through the gut, that eating involves a form of “thinking” originating there, and that the phrase “gut feeling” reflects this. The claim is widely shared on social media. FACT: […]
06
Aug
Aug
The great Fanta divide: Same drink, different countries, different ingredients?
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 7 min read
CLAIM: A viral video alleges that the Indian version of Fanta contains artificial colours and flavourings instead of real orange juice, has nearly 2.5 times as many calories, and contains about 10 teaspoons of sugar per 300 ml, compared with four teaspoons in the French version, suggesting weaker food regulation in India. FACT: Label checks […]
05
Aug
Aug
Adolescent health: Experts call for early intervention to build healthy lifestyles in teens
- Arijit Gupta / 1 month
- 0
- 6 min read
India is home to an estimated 253 million adolescents, the largest in the world, making their health and well-being a critical public health priority. Yet, evidence suggests that many young people continue to face preventable health risks while lacking awareness about healthy lifestyles. A 2025 comparative study published in the Journal of Public Health Research […]
05
Aug
Aug
“Just like a car, your body needs the right fuel to run well”: Dr Umesh Wadhavani’s guide to healthy habits for adolescents
- Sakshi Srivastava / 1 month
- 0
- 6 min read
Do you remember when we were children or teenagers and used to think, “When I grow up, I’ll buy all my favourite packets of chips,” or even, “I’ll buy the entire store!” Those were the carefree days of innocence. Fast forward a few years, and many of us find ourselves doing the exact opposite – […]
05
Aug
Aug
Gaurav Madaan’s viral India’s Got Latent act sparks debate on why some people can’t gain weight
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 7 min read
People often discuss ways to lose weight, including counting calories, hitting the gym, increasing protein intake, trying intermittent fasting, or following the latest diet trends. Social media is flooded with weight-loss tips, transformation stories and fitness advice. But there is another side of the conversation that rarely gets the same attention: people who struggle to […]
04
Aug
Aug
FACT CHECK: Can wearing copper bracelets on wrists and ankles really cure joint pain and inflammation?
- Arijit Gupta / 2 months
- 0
- 4 min read
CLAIM: Wearing copper bracelets or anklets cures joint pain and inflammation by allowing copper to enter the body through the skin. FACT: False. Copper does not enter the bloodstream through healthy skin, and research shows copper bracelets do not relieve joint pain or inflammation better than placebo bracelets. A viral Instagram post claims that […]
04
Aug
Aug
FACT CHECK: Can gulping sugarcane juice in one go cause diseases?
- Arijit Gupta / 2 months
- 0
- 4 min read
CLAIM: An Instagram reel claims that drinking sugarcane juice slowly acts like medicine, while gulping it or water in a hurried manner can cause diseases. FACT: False. There is no scientific evidence that drinking sugarcane juice slowly makes it act like medicine, or that gulping it causes diseases. The speed of consuming sugarcane juice or […]
04
Aug
Aug
After two decades of decline, Karnataka’s HIV numbers are climbing again
- Arijit Gupta / 2 months
- 0
- 7 min read
HIV prevalence among pregnant women in Karnataka has risen for three consecutive surveillance rounds, reversing a trend that had held for nearly twenty years, according to the state’s own annual report for 2025-26 released by the Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS). The finding is significant because it comes from the HIV Sentinel Surveillance of […]
03
Aug
Aug
FACT CHECK: Can consuming sugar lead to dark circles?
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 5 min read
CLAIM: Consuming sugar can cause dark circles under the eyes by triggering a process called glycation, which breaks down collagen, thins the skin, and makes it more prone to pigmentation. The reel further suggests that sugar is the one dietary item people should eliminate. FACT: Current scientific evidence does not support the claim that consuming […]
03
Aug
Aug
FACT CHECK: Does an apricot help maintain iron levels?
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 8 min read
CLAIM: The post claims that apricots, particularly dried apricots, can help support iron levels and are a useful food for people with anaemia. It suggests that their iron content, along with pairing them with vitamin C-rich foods, can aid iron absorption and contribute to healthy red blood cells, energy production, and oxygen transport. The […]
03
Aug
Aug
FACT CHECK: Does a German gel regrow joint cartilage without surgery or implants? Here’s what doctors say
- Arijit Gupta / 2 months
- 0
- 5 min read
CLAIM: A viral Instagram post claims Germany invented a new injectable collagen gel that regrows joint cartilage without surgery, implants, or extended recovery. It says the body’s cells grow into the gel to form healthy cartilage, offering a natural alternative to joint replacement for arthritis, joint pain, and cartilage injuries. FACT: Collagen-based hydrogels for cartilage […]
31
Jul
Jul
Hina Khan braves ice bath during cancer recovery, but does the therapy actually work?
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 7 min read
Actress Hina Khan is again in the news as she braves an ice bath therapy, offering another glimpse into the routine she has been following under medical supervision. In a video shared on Instagram, Khan is seen immersing herself in a tub of ice-cold water while carefully following breathing instructions from a doctor. She also […]
31
Jul
Jul
FACT CHECK: Does PRP hair treatment work for everyone?
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 6 min read
CLAIM: PRP (platelet-rich plasma) combined with microneedling is an advanced treatment that effectively combats hair loss caused by factors such as poor diet, genetics, PCOD, female pattern hair loss, and COVID. The treatment claims to stimulate existing hair follicles, strengthen hair, and promote hair regrowth by delivering growth factors from a person’s own blood into […]
31
Jul
Jul
FACT CHECK: Does dark chocolate lower cholesterol levels?
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 7 min read
CLAIM: The viral Instagram post claims that eating 30–40g of 70% or higher dark chocolate daily lowers cortisol levels by 21%, improves insulin sensitivity, enhances post-workout recovery and boosts blood flow through flavonoids. It also suggests that dark chocolate supports hormonal and heart health, and may help improve cholesterol levels when consumed regularly. FACT: Current […]
30
Jul
Jul
Why losing the wrong fat can increase your diabetes risk; new study reveals
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 7 min read
Trying to lose weight to stay healthy? Most people think that the less body fat they have, the lower their risk of diabetes. But what if losing the wrong kind of fat could actually harm your metabolism? A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation suggests exactly that. Researchers found that healthy fat […]
30
Jul
Jul
Why climbing stairs leaves you breathless—And when it could signal something serious
- Arijit Gupta / 2 months
- 0
- 4 min read
Feeling out of breath after climbing a few flights of stairs is common, but it isn’t always just a sign of poor fitness. According to fitness coach Sumit Dubey, breathlessness can have several causes, ranging from lifestyle factors to underlying medical conditions. “Being out of breath when climbing stairs can happen due to multiple reasons. […]
30
Jul
Jul
FACT CHECK: Can lack of sleep affect fertility in women?
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 7 min read
CLAIM: The viral Instagram post claims that women who consistently sleep for less than six hours are more likely to experience hormonal imbalances that can disrupt ovulation, menstrual cycles and fertility. It adds that chronic sleep deprivation may reduce the chances of a healthy pregnancy and negatively affect fertility treatment outcomes, while noting that sleep […]
29
Jul
Jul
FACT CHECK: Can consuming jamun seeds lower your blood sugar spike?
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 8 min read
CLAIM: Consuming powdered jamun seeds can naturally lower blood sugar spikes and help manage diabetes. The reel claims that jamun seeds contain a compound called “jaboline” and are rich in polyphenols, making them beneficial for people with diabetes. It suggests drying the seeds and grinding them into a powder for consumption. FACT: Jamun seeds contain […]
29
Jul
Jul
Fact Check: Does a half-baked sweet potato really provide 400% of your daily vitamin A?
- Arijit Gupta / 2 months
- 0
- 4 min read
CLAIM: A viral Instagram post claims that eating a half-baked sweet potato provides 400% of your daily vitamin A, due to its high beta-carotene content, which it says supports healthy skin and eyes FACT: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body turns into vitamin A. Experts say one sweet potato can […]
29
Jul
Jul
FACT CHECK: Does the way you draw the number “8” reveal how you make decisions in life?
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 7 min read
CLAIM: The way a person draws the number “8” reflects their decision-making style and personality. According to the viral reel, each of the four common ways of writing the digit reveals specific traits, such as whether a person is cautious, decisive, controlling, or intuitive when solving problems and making decisions. FACT: False. There is no […]
28
Jul
Jul
Why IVF isn’t always the first step in infertility treatment
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 5 min read
Infertility affects an estimated one in six people globally during their reproductive years. In men, infertility is commonly linked to problems with sperm production, movement or ejaculation, while in women it may result from disorders affecting the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes or the endocrine system, according to the World Health Organization. In India, too, infertility […]
28
Jul
Jul
Hepatitis B vaccination is up in India, So why are deaths still rising?
- Arijit Gupta / 2 months
- 0
- 4 min read
India has significantly expanded hepatitis B vaccination among newborns between 2023 and 2024, with nearly eight in ten babies now receiving the crucial birth-dose vaccine. Yet the country continues to be one of the world’s biggest contributors to hepatitis B deaths because millions of people living with chronic infection remain undiagnosed and untreated, according to […]
27
Jul
Jul
FACT CHECK: Can sleeping with wet hair make you catch a cold?
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 8 min read
CLAIM: Sleeping with wet hair does not cause a cold because colds are caused by viruses, not by wet hair. However, going to bed with wet hair may leave the scalp damp for hours, which could contribute to discomfort, hair breakage or worsen certain scalp conditions in some people. FACT: Available scientific evidence does not […]
27
Jul
Jul
Fatty liver in kids is rising: Why doctors say it is becoming a major health concern
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 5 min read
Fatty liver disease, now known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), has long been associated with adults, particularly those living with obesity, type 2 diabetes and other metabolic conditions. However, doctors are increasingly reporting that the condition is also being diagnosed in children, especially those who are overweight or obese, raising concerns about its […]
27
Jul
Jul
FACT CHECK: Can coconut oil really reverse gum disease?
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 8 min read
CLAIM: The post claims that recent research shows coconut oil can remove harmful oral bacteria, reduce gum inflammation, and even reverse gum disease. It suggests that oil pulling with coconut oil supports oral health by improving the oral microbiome and can serve as an effective natural therapy for periodontal disease. FACT: Current evidence suggests that […]
27
Jul
Jul
FACT CHECK: Are 2-minute noodles and soft drinks as dangerous as viral posts claim?
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 14 min read
CLAIM: A viral YouTube Shorts video claims that 2-minute noodles are coated with synthetic wax and contain TBHQ, which allegedly sticks to the intestines and causes constipation and ulcers. It further claims that a glass of cola contains about 10 spoons of sugar and that phosphoric acid removes calcium from the teeth and bones through […]
24
Jul
Jul
One in seven Indian couples faces infertility. Is India ready to respond?
- Anjali Ajaikumar / 2 months
- 0
- 5 min read
The journey towards parenthood is often filled with uncertainties. Over the last few years, the number of fertility issues faced among men and women has drastically increased. With 10-15% of couples in India (around 30 million) affected by infertility; it is imperative to provide timely and compassionate fertility services. World IVF Day serves as a […]
24
Jul
Jul
Can museums, concerts and theatres help you age better? New study explores the link
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 9 min read
There was a time when spending an evening at a concert, watching a play or wandering through a museum sounded exciting. Now, after a hectic week, staying in bed with your comforter often wins over stepping outside. But what if those occasional cultural outings were doing more for your health than you realised? A new […]
24
Jul
Jul
FACT CHECK: Does drinking 3 litres of water really ‘flush out’ alcohol?
- Arijit Gupta / 2 months
- 0
- 6 min read
CLAIM: A viral Instagram reel claims that drinking 3 litres of water the day after alcohol consumption helps “flush alcohol” from the body, that antioxidant-rich foods (berries, amla, leafy greens) reduce alcohol-related oxidative stress, and that garlic, turmeric, and fatty fish boost liver enzymes to break down acetaldehyde faster, effectively “detoxing” the body. FACT: […]
23
Jul
Jul
Meditation calms the brain in just 3 minutes: Harvard study
- Arijit Gupta / 2 months
- 0
- 4 min read
Within just two to three minutes of starting meditation, the human brain shows measurable signs of calm, with the effect peaking between the seventh and tenth minute—even among people who had never meditated before, according to a new study published in the journal Mindfulness in March 2026. Participants in the study wore a cap fitted with 128 […]
23
Jul
Jul
Nearly 9 in 10 Indian adults have unhealthy cholesterol levels, finds national study
- Arijit Gupta / 2 months
- 0
- 4 min read
Almost nine out of every ten adults in India have some form of unhealthy fat or cholesterol level in their blood, with the condition, known medically as dyslipidemia, being more common in cities than in villages and more common among women than men. The findings come from the ICMR-INDIAB study, one of the largest health […]
23
Jul
Jul
One in eight women globally affected by PMOS; Lancet study explains the reason for the name change
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 8 min read
Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting women during their reproductive years. Until recently known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the condition has been officially renamed to better reflect its endocrine, metabolic and ovarian abnormalities, rather than simply the presence of ovarian cysts. Experts say the previous name was misleading because many […]
22
Jul
Jul
India among countries overusing powerful antibiotics: Lancet study
- First Check Team / 2 months
- 0
- 2 min read
India is among the countries using far more powerful antibiotics than clinically necessary, according to a major study published in The Lancet Public Health, which warns that the trend is accelerating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and reducing the effectiveness of life-saving medicines. The study analysed antibiotic needs across 186 countries using disease burden, antibiotic resistance, demographics […]
22
Jul
Jul
Pain during sex is not normal: What women need to know about vaginismus
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 5 min read
Dear girls, remember those moments when we spiral into late-night Google searches or endless Reddit threads trying to figure out why intercourse hurts, why inserting a tampon feels impossible, or why our body suddenly feels like it is “pushing everything away”? And most of the time, instead of answers, what follows is panic, shame, and […]
21
Jul
Jul
WHO’s alarming cancer warning: 1 in 5 people will get the disease
- Arijit Gupta / 2 months
- 0
- 6 min read
One in five people worldwide will develop cancer in their lifetime, and nearly everyone will feel its impact through a loved one, the WHO’s 2026 global cancer report warns. With 20.6 million diagnoses in 2024 and cases projected to hit 35 million by 2050, survival still hinges starkly on wealth, ranging from over 85% in […]
21
Jul
Jul
Safdarjung Doctor’s Association seeks President’s intervention over Sonam Wangchuk’s hospitalisation
- Arijit Gupta / 2 months
- 0
- 5 min read
The Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) of Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital has written to President Droupadi Murmu seeking an “independent, impartial, and time-bound inquiry” into the circumstances surrounding the continued hospitalisation of activist Sonam Wangchuk, the security arrangements at Safdarjung Hospital, and the alleged use of force against protesters at Jantar Mantar. In […]
21
Jul
Jul
Sonam Wangchuk’s health: What more than 3 weeks of fasting can do to the body
- Arijit Gupta / 2 months
- 0
- 6 min read
As activist Sonam Wangchuk remains under close medical supervision after more than three weeks of fasting, doctors say his condition underscores the profound physiological stress that prolonged fasting can place on the human body. Research shows that going without food for extended periods can trigger major changes in metabolism, hormones, inflammation and electrolyte balance, with […]
20
Jul
Jul
India approves first dengue vaccine for people aged 4-60
- First Check Team / 2 months
- 0
- 3 min read
India has approved its first vaccine against dengue, with the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) granting market authorisation to Takeda Biopharmaceuticals India’s QDENGA (TAK-003). The vaccine is approved for the prevention of dengue in individuals aged 4 to 60 years, making it the first dengue vaccine to receive regulatory approval in the country. QDENGA […]
20
Jul
Jul
Can too much screen time leave you mentally drained?
- Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
- 0
- 5 min read
From work meetings and online classes to social media and late-night scrolling, digital screens have become an unavoidable part of everyday life. While prolonged screen use is often blamed for poor concentration and mental exhaustion, researchers are increasingly examining whether excessive digital screen time may also contribute to symptoms commonly described as “brain fog” – […]
20
Jul
Jul
Climate change is costing India sleep, southern cities worst hit: study
- Arijit Gupta / 2 months
- 0
- 5 min read
Southern India is among the hardest-hit regions in the world when it comes to sleep loss from hot nights, according to a new report by Climate Central, a US-based nonprofit of scientists and communicators. “Climate change-linked sleep losses were also high in other already-hot places: people in southern India and several countries in Southeast Asia […]