CLAIM: Breast swelling in newborn babies is normal and usually happens due to the mother’s hormones present in the baby. Pressing or squeezing the swollen area to remove milk is unnecessary and can lead to infections or other complications. FACT: Breast swelling and milky discharge in newborns, known as neonatal galactorrhea or “witch’s milk,” is […]
Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases, continuing to pose a major public health challenge despite decades of global control efforts. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), TB is among the top 10 causes of death worldwide and the leading cause of death from a single infectious agent, claiming over 12 lakh lives and affecting more […]
CLAIM: Kissing a newborn can be life-threatening, as it may transmit infections like herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), especially if the person has an active cold sore. Infections can rapidly affect a baby’s brain, leading to severe damage, long-term health complications, or even death. FACT: True. Newborns have not had time to develop their immune system, […]
In a significant development for diabetes and obesity care, the patent for semaglutide – the key molecule behind blockbuster drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, expired on March 20. Originally developed by Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk, semaglutide has been widely regarded as a breakthrough in managing type 2 diabetes and aiding weight loss. With the […]
The American Heart Association (AHA), along with the American College of Cardiology (ACC), has released new guidelines on cholesterol management, marking a significant update in how cardiovascular risk is assessed and treated. The 2026 Guideline on the Management of Dyslipidemia is the first major ‘revision since 2018 and reflects evolving scientific evidence on lipid disorders, including […]
Calling for a more open and stigma-free conversation around Tuberculosis, Dr Soumya Swaminathan, Principal Advisor to the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) and Chairperson of the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, said on Monday that India’s fight against TB cannot be won through medical interventions alone and requires greater public awareness, early diagnosis and community engagement. […]
Conflict-associated disease outbreaks are emerging as the most immediate global health threat in 2026, according to a new insight paper by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, which warns that violence, climate change, funding cuts, misinformation, and emerging pathogens are converging to strain fragile health systems worldwide. “These are challenging times for global health,” the paper states. […]
CLAIM: A mother’s eating habits during pregnancy can shape her child’s future food preferences. Foods frequently consumed by the mother while pregnant, such as mangoes or chocolates, may “imprint” on the child in the womb, leading them to like the same foods later in life. FACT: Research shows that flavours from foods eaten during pregnancy can pass into the […]
CLAIM: Rising ADHD cases in children are primarily caused by excessive screen time due to poor parenting choices. Frequent phone use gives children instant dopamine stimulation, disrupts brain development, and leads to long-term attention problems. FACT: Research shows a consistent association between higher screen time and increased ADHD symptoms or risk in children, with […]
CLAIM: Children should not be given protein shakes, as their nutritional needs should ideally be met through regular home-cooked food. Relying on supplements to meet a child’s protein requirement reflects poor dietary habits and parenting. FACT: Protein supplements are generally unnecessary for most healthy children, as their nutritional needs can usually be met through […]
There are several moments in life when everything feels overwhelming. Stress piles up from work, responsibilities, and personal challenges, and people often try to reorganise their lives in search of balance. During such phases, individuals commonly focus on changing routines, improving habits, or reducing external pressures. But what if one overlooked factor also plays a […]
CLAIM: Spraying perfume directly on the neck can damage the thyroid gland and negatively affect metabolism because the skin in that area is thin and absorbs chemicals quickly. It also suggests that ingredients in synthetic perfumes, such as phthalates, may disrupt hormones and irritate the skin. FACT: Scientific studies show that some chemicals used in […]
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is emerging as a major public health concern in India, with research showing a steady rise in its prevalence over the past decade. A review published in the journal Kidney International Reports estimates that nearly 13% of the Indian population may be affected by CKD, placing a significant burden on the country’s healthcare system […]
The journey of First Check is rooted in a strong belief in the power of credible and timely information. In public health, access to accurate, evidence-based information is essential to protect lives, guide communities, and strengthen health systems. First Check supports this effort by verifying online claims, debunking unscientific narratives, and expanding access to […]
CLAIM: Children who consume sugar and processed foods such as cakes, bread, ice cream and chocolates become restless, stubborn and prone to anger due to unhealthy gut bacteria. Eliminating sugar, packaged foods, and adopting practices like fasting and early dinners can improve their gut health, mood and overall mental well-being. FACT: False. Scientific evidence […]
In a landmark ruling, India’s Supreme Court has permitted the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment for a 31-year-old man who has remained in a vegetative state for more than a decade, marking the first court-approved instance of passive euthanasia in the country. The case relates to Harish Rana, who suffered severe head injuries after falling from […]
CLAIM: Creatine does not cause hair loss. There is no solid scientific evidence proving a direct link between creatine supplementation and baldness. FACT: There is no strong scientific evidence that creatine causes hair loss, and recent clinical research has found no significant impact on DHT levels or hair growth. However, individuals should consult a healthcare […]
A new type of immune cell therapy has wiped out cancer in mice without damaging the rest of the immune system, a long-standing problem with today’s CAR-T treatments, and may also open the door to safer therapies for autoimmune diseases such as lupus. The research, published in Science Translational Medicine, describes a next-generation CAR-T therapy that […]
Chronic kidney disease is emerging as a major public health concern worldwide, with India carrying a particularly heavy burden. A recent Lancet study estimates that India now has the second-highest number of people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) globally. In 2023, around 13.8 crore Indians were affected by the condition, second only to China’s 15.2 crore cases. The global […]
Organ transplants in India have risen nearly fourfold over the past decade, climbing from fewer than 5,000 procedures in 2013 to almost 20,000 in 2025, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Sunday. Citing data from the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), the ministry described the surge as a significant milestone […]
CLAIM: Drinking water from plastic bottles is “poison” and can cause cancer. Using nail polish and artificial nails, especially while eating food with them on, can also lead to cancer. FACT: There is no reliable scientific evidence that drinking water from plastic bottles or using nail polish and artificial nails causes cancer under normal, real-world […]
The mental health effects of Long COVID may last far longer than many people realise — in some cases, up to three years after the initial infection, a major new study has found. The research, published in BMC Public Health, followed adults in Michigan who had PCR-confirmed COVID-19 and tracked their mental health over nearly three years. […]
CLAIM: Low levels of Vitamin D and Vitamin B12 mean a person is “100 per cent depressed,” even if they are unaware of it. Nearly all patients with depression have deficiencies in these vitamins, and correcting them is essential. FACT: Low levels of Vitamin D and Vitamin B12 have been associated with higher rates of depressive symptoms in several […]
CLAIM: Burnt roti, phulka, or any charred food releases acrylamide, a carcinogenic chemical. Regularly eating burnt rotis made on gas or griddles can increase the risk of cancer. FACT: False. Acrylamide forms naturally when starchy foods like roti or bread are cooked at high temperatures and browned, and it is classified as a probable carcinogen based mainly on animal […]
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death globally, and women bear a significant share of the burden. According to the World Cancer Research Fund (2022), an estimated 96.65 lakh new cancer cases were diagnosed among women worldwide, with 7.22 lakh cases reported in India. According to the India Fact Sheet (GLOBOCAN 2022), breast cancer is the most […]
CLAIM: Giving tea to babies and continuing to feed only milk after six months can harm their health. Tea may block iron absorption and lead to anaemia, while milk alone is not enough to meet a growing baby’s nutritional needs. FACT: Research indicates that tea can interfere with iron absorption and may increase the risk of iron […]
Muzamil Hilal, 26, from Rawalpora in Srinagar, has had a dog and a cat for several years now. He says they have made a “world of difference” to his family’s life. “It is like raising children at home. They cheer you up all day long,” says Hilal. “My mother used to feel quite depressed earlier, […]
CLAIM: Watching reels for long hours puts the eye in a constant “near vision” mode, leading to strain and potentially causing or worsening myopia (minus power). FACT: Current evidence suggests that prolonged screen time may increase the risk of developing and worsening myopia in children, particularly with limited outdoor activity. Experts add that in […]
CLAIM: Drinking hot tea or coffee in disposable paper cups releases thousands of microplastic particles into the body because the inner plastic lining melts on contact with heat. These microplastics can cause cancer and increase the risk of pancreatic disease, making paper cups unsafe for consumption. FACT: Partially true. Plastic-lined paper cups can release microplastic particles […]
US counties located closer to operational nuclear power plants (NPPs) have recorded higher cancer mortality rates than those farther away, according to a new nationwide study led by researchers at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Published on February 23 in Nature Communications, the study is the first in the 21st century to assess […]
You must have watched heartwarming videos of baby monkey Punch on social media – clips of him clinging tightly to a stuffed orange orangutan, wandering alone, and at times being chased by older monkeys. What began as a few short clips soon became a collective emotional response online, with viewers projecting their own stories of rejection […]
Exam season is here, whether it’s Class 10, Class 12 board exams or any other competitive test, and with revision schedules tightening, stress levels are rising too. In these crucial months, students often find themselves caught in a cycle of anxiety, sleepless nights, and constant pressure to perform. While we often tend to ignore it, […]
CLAIM: Eating fish regularly reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, chronic inflammation and depression due to its Omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein content. Consuming fish two to three times a week improves heart, joint, thyroid and overall mental health. FACT: Regular fish consumption is associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease and cardiovascular mortality, likely due to omega-3 […]
CLAIM: Peas are extremely nutrient-dense and provide significant amounts of fibre, protein, vitamins, and antioxidants despite their small size. Consuming peas regularly, whether fresh or frozen, can support overall health, including digestion, immunity, and eye health. FACT: Scientific evidence shows that green peas are a nutrient-dense food rich in fibre, plant-based protein, vitamins, and antioxidants, which support […]
Manjit Sangha, a 52-year-old woman from the United Kingdom, never imagined that an ordinary evening playing with her pet dog could change her life forever. What appeared to be an innocent lick on a small cut or scratch is believed to have triggered a severe infection that rapidly progressed to sepsis. Within days, Sangha was fighting for […]
The Union government is set to launch a nationwide human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination drive offering a free single dose of Gardasil to 14-year-old girls in a major push to reduce cervical cancer in India. The special campaign, which will not be part of the Universal Immunisation Programme, aims to immunise girls at an age when […]
For decades, ageing has been widely associated with inevitable physical decline. Muscle strength weakens, endurance drops, and recovery slows. This narrative has shaped not only medical understanding but also societal expectations, that physical performance after 70 or 80 is defined largely by limitation rather than capability. Even among healthy individuals, reduced aerobic capacity and cardiovascular […]
Television has long been part of everyday life, and conversations around excessive TV use have often focused on its effects on eyesight, sleep quality, and brain health. From warnings about eye strain to concerns about sedentary lifestyles, the risks of spending too much time in front of screens are well recognised. However, emerging research now suggests that […]
CLAIM: A baby’s health cannot be judged by whether they are lean or chubby. As long as the child is active, meeting developmental milestones on time, and growing according to the growth chart, body size alone does not determine health. FACT: True. There is no scientific evidence that chubby babies are healthier than lean babies. A baby’s health […]
CLAIM: Wearing Crocs regularly for long hours can harm your feet because they lack proper arch support and heel stability. Prolonged use may lead to foot strain, heel pain, and tendon-related problems, especially in people who stand or walk a lot. FACT: True. Crocs (clogs) can be comfortable for short, low-impact use but may […]
CLAIM: Routine snoring in children is not normal and may indicate an underlying airway obstruction such as enlarged tonsils, adenoids, allergies, or obesity. Persistent snoring can affect sleep quality, behaviour, and overall health, and may require medical evaluation. FACT: Scientific evidence shows that while occasional snoring in children can be normal, habitual or regular […]
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has rolled out an artificial intelligence-driven surveillance system under the National One Health Mission, aimed at predicting and detecting potential pandemics before they escalate. The new tool is designed to shift India’s public health approach from reactive outbreak management to predictive surveillance. By analysing genomic data, regional disease […]
CLAIM: Clinginess in babies after the first year is a normal developmental phase and reflects secure emotional attachment, not a behavioural problem. It indicates healthy psychological and emotional development rather than dependency or weakness. FACT: True. Clinginess in babies is a normal part of emotional and psychological development and reflects secure attachment and healthy […]
Rising obesity, diabetes, mental health problems and digital addiction are emerging as major public health challenges in India, the Economic Survey 2025–26 has warned, even as the country records steady gains in maternal and child healthcare outcomes. The Survey flags lifestyle diseases and behavioural health risks as growing threats to long-term wellbeing and workforce productivity. Presented in Parliament on […]
A new review published in The Lancet has signalled what could become a major shift in the treatment of high blood pressure, including the possibility of long-acting therapies that may require as few as two injections a year. The review underlines a stark reality: “Despite the availability of effective antihypertensive therapies, global blood pressure control […]
The outbreak of bird flu in neighbouring Tamil Nadu has raised concerns in Andhra Pradesh, prompting authorities to step up surveillance to prevent a possible spread of the virus. The alert comes after avian influenza was confirmed in dead crows in Chennai, with health officials issuing advisories and strengthening monitoring measures across bordering regions. While such alerts are precautionary, outbreaks […]
Cancer remains one of the world’s biggest health challenges. In 2020 alone, nearly 1 crore people died due to cancer, with breast, lung, colorectal, prostate and stomach cancers among the most commonly diagnosed. Every year, around 4 lakh children develop cancer, and in 23 countries, cervical cancer remains the most common cancer among women. Yet, despite rising numbers, misinformation continues to shape […]
Research published in Neuron shows that repeated exercise rewires specific neurons in the brain, and that this rewiring is essential for improving endurance over time. The work helps explain why running or cycling gets easier with practice — not just because muscles adapt, but because the brain changes too. The study, titled “Exercise-induced activation of […]
CLAIM: Most rashes in babies and young children are being wrongly labelled as chickenpox (‘mata’), leading to unnecessary panic and the spread of unscientific practices related to bathing, food, and maternal behaviour. Many of these rashes are actually common viral or allergic skin reactions and not chickenpox. FACT: True. Most baby rashes are caused by viral infections, skin […]
CLAIM: Women need the same amount of protein per kilogram of body weight as men, and may sometimes require even more due to physiological factors like the menstrual cycle and recovery needs. Despite this, many women consume less protein because of myths that it causes bulkiness or harms health. FACT: Protein requirements are not based on gender. […]
The journey of First Check has always been rooted in a single, unwavering pursuit: the power of credible information. After a transformative 2025, marked by our content partnership with THE WEEK and an expanding network of verified health resources, we entered 2026 with a vision to move from conversation to high-impact action. On January […]
Becoming a mother is overwhelming, beautiful, and exhausting – all at once. If you’ve clicked on this article, know this first: you are not alone, and your concerns deserve to be heard. From relatives and neighbours to social media “experts” and viral reels, new mothers are constantly bombarded with advice about what they should or […]
CLAIM: Household chores by themselves are not sufficient to meet daily fitness needs. Relying only on kitchen work or routine domestic activity as exercise can be misleading, and dedicated physical activity of at least 30 minutes a day is necessary to maintain health and reduce the risk of lifestyle diseases. FACT: Household chores do burn calories and […]
CLAIM: Ear piercing is safest for babies between 2 and 6 months of age, preferably after the first vaccination, and doing it earlier or without proper hygiene can increase the risk of infection and complications. FACT: There is no single ‘right age’ to pierce a baby’s ears, but medical experts advise caution. Some medical journals […]
#CLAIM 1: Persistent watering from one eye in babies is commonly caused by a blocked tear duct (nasolacrimal duct) and is usually harmless. Regular Crigler massage can help open the duct, and most cases resolve on their own within the first year of life without the need for medical intervention. FACT 1: True. One-sided watery […]
CLAIM: Celebrities suggest that consuming desi ghee, even in generous amounts, does not lead to weight gain and may help the body burn fat when eaten in the morning. FACT: False. Scientific studies highlight mixed effects of ghee on health, showing both potential benefits and possible cardiovascular risks depending on intake and individual response. While small […]
A new study published in the ‘Journal of Medical Radiation Sciences’ has found that stabilised hyaluronic acid (sHA) gel can be safely and effectively used as a rectal spacer during radiation treatment for gynaecological cancers. Conducted by clinician-researchers from Austin Health in Australia, the research is the “first” to test this technique in women undergoing MRI-guided […]
CLAIM: Traditional practices like rubbing ‘atta loi’ or turmeric on a newborn’s skin to remove fine body hair are harmful, unnecessary, and can lead to skin damage and infections, as baby hair naturally sheds on its own. FACT: Lanugo is a normal, temporary type of fine hair in newborns that naturally sheds on its own within weeks or […]
CLAIM: Eating roti with ghee prevents blood sugar spikes and lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes, while eating dry roti increases diabetes risk. FACT: There is no scientific evidence that adding ghee to roti prevents diabetes. Experts explain that while fat may slightly slow digestion and reduce the immediate blood sugar spike, the total […]
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. Approximately 15% of adults experience mental health issues requiring professional intervention, but awareness, access, and […]
Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability in India, placing a massive burden on families and the healthcare system. In a stroke, every minute matters; nearly 1.9 billion brain cells are lost every minute when treatment is delayed. Timely care within the “golden hour” can significantly reduce mortality and prevent lifelong […]
CLAIM: Consuming curd in winter does not cause colds or coughs and is safe to eat during colder months. FACT: True. Consuming curd in winter is safe for most people and does not cause colds or respiratory infections. Scientific studies show that probiotic fermented dairy products may actually help reduce the duration and risk of upper […]
Leprosy, a chronic infectious disease and one of the world’s oldest known illnesses, is now fully curable but continues to affect thousands of people every year, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Globally, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 188 countries, areas and territories reported leprosy data in 2024, accounting for 1.72 lakh new cases. Of […]
An analysis by researchers from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Mumbai, has found a startling reality – nearly half of all pregnancies in India can now be classified as high-risk. The findings, drawn from the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5), shed light on […]
CLAIM: Forcing excessive water intake is unhealthy and misleading, as hydration needs vary by individual, and drinking too much water at once can increase the risk of water intoxication and electrolyte imbalance. FACT: Drinking excessive amounts of water, especially over a short period, can be harmful and may lead to dilutional hyponatremia (water intoxication). Experts suggest […]
By the time you are reading this, you must be aware deep inside how important sleep is for health. Sleep is not just a period of rest; it is a vital biological process that allows the body to repair itself, regulate hormones, and restore energy. For many, sleep is like a see-saw; some struggle to […]
CLAIM: Excessive drooling in babies is a normal part of growth and development and should not be mistaken for illness, stomach worms, or problems related to the mother’s diet or pregnancy. FACT: True. Drooling in babies is a normal developmental process that usually begins around 3–4 months and may continue up to two years due […]
India faces the second-highest economic burden due to diabetes, estimated at USD 16.5 trillion, a new global study has found, second only to the United States at USD 11.4 trillion, and ahead of China at USD 11 trillion—with informal care costs contributing significantly to the burden. The estimate captures the cumulative economic shock of a chronic […]
CLAIM: Eating one teaspoon of ghee daily on an empty stomach can reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and support hormone balance. FACT: Ghee contains bioactive components like butyric acid and other fatty acids that may support gut health and have anti-inflammatory effects, but most evidence comes from animal studies and mechanistic research. There is no strong human clinical […]
Technology has a role in advancing humanity, extending from improving lives, reducing suffering, and the well-being of humans. Each major leap of technology, from antibiotics to medical imaging to telemedicine, has transformed health care. India’s health care system is now navigating such a decisive journey in the context of Artificial Intelligence (AI). With over 1.4 billion […]
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries worldwide, and healthcare in India is no exception. From AI-driven cancer screening solutions to advanced diagnostic tools for infectious diseases, India is increasingly leveraging AI to make healthcare more accessible, efficient, and precise. The technology can help health practitioners make better decisions, enabling early detection and supporting timely interventions, especially in resource-constrained and […]
CLAIM: Forceful or aggressive baby massages, including hard strokes, nose pressing, and rubbing the chest to “clean” white milk discharge, are harmful and do not make babies stronger. FACT: True. Experts suggest that infant massage is safe and beneficial only when done gently with light pressure, safe oils, and proper technique, supporting circulation, digestion, sleep, […]
A new study has found that regular physical activity during adolescence may play a protective role in reducing biological indicators linked to breast cancer risk later in life. Researchers suggest that engaging in recreational physical activity during the crucial years of breast development can influence breast tissue composition and lower markers of physiological stress, both of […]
Mental healthcare received a policy mention in the Union Budget 2026–27, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announcing a second National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) campus in North India. Presenting the budget in Parliament, Sitharaman said the move was necessitated by the lack of adequate mental health institutions in the northern region […]
CLAIM: Sleeping in a cold AC can slow down the liver’s detox and repair processes at night, affecting recovery and overall health. FACT: False. There is currently no human scientific evidence proving that sleeping in a cold, air-conditioned room disrupts liver detoxification or recovery. Research linking cold exposure to liver stress is largely based on limited animal […]
CLAIM: Random, unstructured running, especially without adequate strength and mobility training, can place excessive stress on the knees and lead to knee pain or injury, rather than improving joint health. FACT: Scientific evidence suggests that running itself does not damage the knees, but inadequate preparation, such as muscle imbalances, poor form, or sudden increases in […]
A major UK study analysing data from nearly 125,000 women has found that menopause is associated with measurable changes in brain regions critical for memory, spatial navigation and emotional regulation, the same areas that are affected early in Alzheimer’s disease. The research, published this week in Psychological Medicine by Cambridge University Press, examined mental health, […]
India is witnessing a silent but alarming rise in fatty liver disease, now placing the country among the world’s top three most affected nations. A recent global study published in the ‘Journal of the American Medical Association’ reveals that metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), also known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, has become the most common chronic liver […]
A new study published in ‘The New England Journal of Medicine’ has found that taking a daily fish oil supplement can significantly reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular complications in people undergoing hemodialysis for kidney failure. The results are particularly significant given that cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death among people with kidney failure. Chronic kidney disease affects […]
CLAIM: The strawberry–dark chocolate combination is a healthy period snack that can help reduce inflammation and menstrual cramps, improve mood, curb sugar cravings, support digestion, and ease bloating during menstruation. FACT: Scientific evidence suggests that strawberries and dark chocolate contain nutrients—like antioxidants, vitamin C, and magnesium- that may help reduce inflammation, support mood, and relax muscles during […]
Artificial intelligence has moved from being a futuristic concept to an indispensable tool for addressing India’s deep-rooted healthcare challenges of scale, access and equity, experts said at the Official Pre-Summit of the India AI Impact Summit 2026, hosted by the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) in Srinagar on Thursday. Setting the tone for the […]
CLAIM: Sleeping late on weekends can negatively affect your mood, weight, and overall health by disrupting your body’s internal clock. FACT: While extra sleep may temporarily reduce tiredness, large shifts in sleep timing can disrupt the body’s internal clock, a phenomenon known as social jet lag, which has been linked to mood changes, weight […]
Monkey attacks are no longer isolated incidents confined to forest fringes or temple towns. Across India’s cities, encounters with the aggressive animals have become a daily public safety concern, causing injuries and even deaths. A couple of months back, in Gujarat’s Gomtipur at least 12 people were bitten by monkeys in five days. Early last […]
As concerns grow over children’s excessive dependence on mobile phones, online games and social media, Bengaluru-based NIMHANS has launched a structured, community-based programme to help parents manage what experts increasingly describe as technology addiction. The initiative is being run through NIMHANS’s SHUT Clinic (Service for Healthy Use of Technology) in collaboration with the NIMHANS Centre […]
A study by the Indian Council of Medical Research has found that India still lacks reliable information on the medical causes behind most deaths, raising serious concerns about health planning, disease surveillance, and policy priorities. The findings, published in the journal Scientific Reports, show that despite improvements in death registration, only a small proportion of deaths […]
CLAIM: Packaged soup premixes are not truly healthy as they contain very little real vegetables, excessive sodium and unnecessary additives, making them unsuitable for regular consumption compared to homemade soups. FACT: True. While soups made with fresh vegetables, broths, and legumes are highly nutritious, packaged, canned, or cream-based soups often contain high sodium, additives, and sometimes contaminants, making them less healthy for regular consumption compared to homemade […]
Stress during pregnancy, triggered by immune activation, infections, or changes in gut health, may have lasting effects on a child’s brain development, increasing the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders later in life. A new genetic study in mice, published in Nature Neuroscience, sheds light on this process at a molecular level by mapping the neuroimmune environment of […]
Sugary drinks and alcoholic beverages are becoming cheaper across much of the world, and the World Health Organisation (WHO) warns that this trend is already fuelling a surge in obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancer and injury-related deaths, particularly among children and young adults. In two new global reports released this week, the WHO has urged governments to strengthen taxes on […]
Happy New Year to all our First Check readers!!! The last year was all about growth, collaborations, and innovations for First Check. From the continued content sharing partnership with THE WEEK, where one can read First Check’s verified and credible health-related articles on THE WEEK’s website, to becoming a member of the Trusted […]
CLAIM: Applying kajal to children’s eyes is dangerous, offers no health benefit, and can harm vision by causing allergies and eye infections. FACT: Kajal, kohl, or surma can contain high levels of lead and other toxic metals, which may cause eye irritation, infections, and systemic lead poisoning in infants. Scientific studies and health authorities like the FDA […]
Recently, WHO hailed India’s efforts to phase out mercury from medical devices, calling it a critical step toward safer healthcare systems and healthier communities. Mercury, long used in medical devices, is highly toxic and is classified by the World Health Organisation as one of the top ten chemicals of major public health concern for its harmful effects on the brain, nervous system, […]
A new study published in the International Journal of Cancer has found that even brief bouts of intense physical activity can trigger molecular changes in the body that may help suppress the growth of colorectal cancer cells and accelerate DNA repair mechanisms. Researchers from Newcastle University in the UK report that just 10 minutes of high-intensity exercise can alter the […]
CLAIM: Bleeding gums are not just a dental issue but can increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes due to long-term inflammation and bacterial spread through the bloodstream. FACT: Bleeding gums, a sign of periodontal disease, are linked to poorer blood sugar control in diabetes and a higher risk of heart disease and […]
CLAIM: Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing cataracts at an early age. An unhealthy lifestyle, along with factors such as excessive sun exposure, diabetes, and genetic predisposition, can accelerate early-onset cataracts, especially among younger people. FACT: Smoking is a well-established risk factor for cataracts in general, but current scientific evidence does not conclusively prove […]
A new perspective study published in the journal ‘Biocontaminant’ has flagged a growing but largely overlooked global health threat, free-living amoebae, a group of microscopic organisms that thrive in soil and water and, in rare cases, can cause fatal infections in humans. Scientists warn that climate change, ageing water infrastructure, and gaps in surveillance systems are creating conditions […]
CLAIM: Alcohol does not truly keep the body warm; the warmth felt is temporary, and drinking alcohol can actually lower core body temperature. FACT: Alcohol does not keep the body warm. Scientific studies and medical experts show that alcohol disrupts normal temperature regulation and increases the risk of hypothermia, especially in cold conditions. In a viral Instagram reel posted by dietician Bhawesh […]
Scientists have claimed to have “rejuvenated” human eggs for the first time, a development that could significantly improve IVF success rates for older women, according to research reported by The Guardian. The study suggests that age-related defects in eggs — a major cause of IVF failure and miscarriage — can be reduced by supplementing eggs […]
Typhoid, a life-threatening but preventable infection, remains a serious public health challenge, silently affecting millions every year and disproportionately hospitalising children. In India, nearly 47 lakh typhoid cases were recorded in 2023, with about 7,400 reported deaths. In fact, the current situation in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, has once again drawn attention to this persistent disease. Due to leakage in […]
CLAIM: Premature greying of hair is linked to diet, with vegetarians being more prone to early greying due to vitamin B12 deficiency that affects melanin production and hair pigmentation. FACT: False. While low vitamin B12 levels have been associated with premature greying of hair, there is no conclusive evidence that vegetarians turn grey earlier than […]
Most of us were left wondering about one particular detail while listening to Zomato founder Deepinder Goyal speak about gig workers, entrepreneurship and building scale on Raj Shamani’s YouTube podcast – what was that tiny metallic-looking device stuck to his temple? As the podcast clips spread across social media, the device became a distraction of […]