admin - Page 6 of 13 - First Check

06
Jan

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Two Bengaluru infants test HMPV positive, health ministry assures preparedness

First Check Team / 11 months
0
2 min read

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has detected two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka as part of its nationwide surveillance for respiratory viral diseases. The Union Health Ministry gas said it is closely monitoring the situation through established surveillance networks, while the World Health Organization (WHO) continues to provide timely updates on […]

04
Jan

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India tracks China’s HMPV outbreak amid rising concerns, says no significant spike locally

First Check Team / 11 months
0
2 min read

India is closely monitoring respiratory and seasonal influenza cases after social media reports of a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory illness with flu-like symptoms, outbreak in China. India said it is in communication with international agencies to stay updated on developments. Director General of Health Services, Dr. Atul Goel, described HMPV as a respiratory virus […]

04
Jan

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India records 9.1M dog bites annually, survey highlights vaccination gaps

First Check Team / 11 months
0
2 min read

A Lancet study funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research revealed 9.1 million annual dog bites in India and urged a One Health approach to eliminate dog-mediated human rabies by 2030. “Integrating human and animal surveillance, ensuring timely administration of the full course of post-exposure prophylaxis, and accelerating dog vaccination across the country are […]

03
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Can traditional remedies like applying chilli, onion juice prevent rabies after a dog bite?

First Check Team / 11 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: A viral video suggests traditional remedies can treat rabid dog bites. FACT: Experts confirm only medical interventions can prevent rabies. A video on social media says that local remedies can treat dog bites including bites by rabid dog “Friends, whether you live in a village, a city, or a town, you must have […]

03
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Can fermented foods reduce, remove, or eliminate microplastics from our bodies?

Sneha Richhariya / 11 months
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Fermented food can reduce, remove and even eliminate microplastics and Bisphenol A from our tissues. FACT: Fermented foods with probiotics may support gut health, which could help mitigate some effects of microplastics indirectly. However, there is no scientific evidence proving they can remove or eliminate microplastics from the body. An Instagram reel flagged by a First Check […]

03
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Amla is ayurveda’s most powerful medicine against diabetes

Pallav Vyas / 11 months
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Amla (Indian Gooseberry) is Ayurveda’s most powerful medicine against Diabetes FACT: Multiple studies have shown that Amla can in fact help control one’s blood sugar levels A First Check reader recently shared an Instagram reel with us on our WhatsApp tipline, where the user is seen promoting the Indian Gooseberry or Amla as a […]

02
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Does your child’s body possess innate healing prowess?

Pallav Vyas / 11 months
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Your child’s body is born with everything it needs to heal, and we mess it up with pharma products FACT: Children are born with minimal immunity, which is not sufficient enough to protect the baby from deadly diseases A First Check reader recently shared a Threads post by user free.range.momma, on our WhatsApp […]

02
Jan

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In a hottest decade on record, 2024 was warmest, with 41 dangerous heat days: WMO

First Check Team / 11 months
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3 min read

2024 was the warmest year on record, capping a decade of unprecedented heat driven by human activities, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has reported, warning that greenhouse gas levels continue to grow to record observed highs, “locking in even more heat for the future.” The WMO will publish the consolidated global temperature figure for […]

01
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Do we really need a skincare routine?

Sneha Richhariya / 11 months
0
3 min read

CLAIM: A YouTube reel claims that a multi-step skincare routine, including a morning face wash, vitamin C serum, moisturizer, sunscreen and lip balm is a must have for healthy skin. FACT: While a multi-step skincare routine may benefit individuals with specific skin concerns, its necessity for everyone lacks dermatological evidence A YouTube reel shared by […]

01
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Are tea bags leaking billions of microplastics into your cup of tea?

Pallav Vyas / 11 months
0
4 min read

A claim circulating on social media has raised concerns about the potential health risks posed by microplastics in tea bags. The claim, posted by user @MonaElizabeth56 on X (formerly Twitter), has garnered 250 views and features a video alleging that typical tea bags are sprayed with plastic to prevent tearing. According to the video, […]

31
Dec

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COVID: 5 years after outbreak, WHO calls on China to share data ‘to understand the origins’ of the pandemic

First Check Team / 11 months
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2 min read

On December 31, 2019, the World Health Organization’s country office in China picked up a media statement from the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission’s website reporting cases of “viral pneumonia” in Wuhan. Five years later, the WHO has reiterated its call for China to share critical data and grant access to researchers to uncover the origins […]

30
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Can a mixture of aloe vera gel, coffee powder and black tea darken your grey hair?

Sneha Richhariya / 11 months
0
3 min read

CLAIM: A mixture of aloe vera gel, coffee powder, and black tea can permanently darken grey hair after one application FACT: False. There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that this mixture can permanently darken grey hair An Instagram reel posted by @abhi.healthguru suggests that applying a homemade mixture of aloe vera […]

30
Dec

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Influenza vaccines are a lifesaver against severe flu, says WHO expert

First Check Team / 11 months
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4 min read

The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted influenza vaccines as the most effective tool against severe illness and death, with nearly one billion doses administered globally each year. Dr. Shoshanna Goldin, from WHO’s World Health Emergencies Programme, emphasized the need to stay ahead of the constantly evolving virus during a recent broadcast, underscoring the critical […]

28
Dec

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India exits WHO’s high-burden malaria list, aims for zero cases by 2030

First Check Team / 11 months
0
3 min read

India has officially exited the World Health Organization’s (WHO) high-burden to high-impact (HBHI) group for malaria, with the country aiming for zero cases by 2030, the World Malaria Report 2024 has revealed. India celebrated the achievement. “The WHO report recognized India’s advancements as a model for other nations aiming to combat malaria. With sustained efforts, […]

28
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Does frequent ejaculation reduce prostate cancer risk?

Pallav Vyas / 11 months
0
2 min read

CLAIM: Frequent ejaculation doesn’t prevent prostate cancer FACT: False. Frequent ejaculation lowers prostate cancer risk A post by @Amerix on X (formerly Twitter), dismisses the claim that frequent ejaculation reduces the risk of prostate cancer. The post states, “Men, Frequent ejaculation doesn’t protect you from Prostate Cancer. These are institutionalized lies peddled by puppets […]

27
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Do detox supplements actually help in removing toxins and improving health?

Sneha Richhariya / 11 months
0
4 min read

CLAIM: The growing trend of detox diets and supplements claims that your body requires these to eliminate toxins and improve health FACT: False. The body has its own efficient detoxification system, primarily through organs like the liver, and doesn’t require external supplements or products to detoxify A growing number of videos (such as […]

26
Dec

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2024: India marks major milestone in eliminating Neglected Tropical Diseases

First Check Team / 11 months
0
2 min read

India achieved a significant milestone this year by eliminating neglected tropical disease, marking progress in the fight against conditions such as human African trypanosomiasis, leprosy, lymphatic filariasis, and trachoma. Meanwhile, Egypt declared itself malaria-free after a century-long battle, and Cabo Verde joined the list of malaria-free nations, showcasing global advancements in combating infectious diseases. In […]

26
Dec

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WHO flags misinformation and disinformation as major threat to global health in 2024 review

First Check Team / 11 months
0
3 min read

Misinformation and disinformation are critical threats to global health, the World Health Organization (WHO) says in its 2024 review. The organization warns that inaccurate information about diseases, treatments, and vaccines not only undermines trust in science but also erodes public confidence in evidence-based health policies, posing a significant challenge to global health efforts. “During emergencies […]

25
Dec

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Over 1 in 5 adults worldwide has a genital herpes infection

First Check Team / 11 months
0
3 min read

Around 846 million people aged between 15 and 49 are living with genital herpes infections – more than 1 in 5 of this age-group globally – according to new estimates released by World Health Organisation. In a statement, WHO said that at least one person each second – 42 million people annually – is […]

25
Dec

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COVID toll so far: 7 million deaths, over 776 million cases, a surge in mental health issues

First Check Team / 11 months
0
3 min read

More than 776.8 million cases and 7 million deaths from COVID-19 have been recorded globally since the pandemic began in early 2020, according to the latest data released by WHO. While there are periodic waves of COVID-19 in some countries, SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, largely circulates without clear seasonality and continues to infect, […]

24
Dec

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Fact Check: Does drinking 8 litres of water daily boost health?

Sneha Richhariya / 12 months
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Drinking 8 litres of water daily boosts athletic performance, speeds up muscle recovery, improves joint mobility, and lowers the risk of injuries. FACT: False. Drinking 8 litres of water daily is not universally beneficial and can even pose health risks. While adequate hydration is essential for athletic performance and recovery, excessive water intake can […]

23
Dec

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India’s air pollution problem is not just urban, rural areas also suffer: Dr Suganthi Jaganathan

First Check Team / 12 months
0
5 min read

A new study by the Karolinska Institute has revealed that long-term exposure to air pollution is a significant contributor to millions of deaths in India. The research, published in The Lancet Planetary Health, highlights the urgent need for stricter air quality regulations. It reveals that the entire population of India is exposed to PM2.5 […]

23
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Can fasting for 3 days shield you from rabies after a dog bite?

First Check Team / 12 months
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Fasting for three days after a dog bite enables the body to produce antibodies against rabies. FACT: A 3-day fast cannot protect against rabies; only timely vaccination can prevent the deadly disease. If a dog bites you, you shouldn’t go for any vaccine and instead keep a fast for three days. The body […]

20
Dec

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Social media platforms urged to share data to tackle science misinformation

First Check Team / 12 months
0
3 min read

Social media companies must prioritize the fight against science misinformation by offering free, non-commercial access to data for researchers studying its origins, spread, and effects, a report published by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommends. “Universities and research institutions should help connect researchers with social media companies to improve access to reliable […]

20
Dec

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FACT CHECK – Why Shah Rukh Khan, Sachin Tendulkar and Others Have Sons Taller Than Them

Pallav Vyas / 12 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Sachin Tendulkar is 5’5″, Anjali Tendulkar is 5’6″, so how is their son Arjun Tendulkar is 6’3″? FACT: A diet rich in high-quality protein can significantly contribute to how tall an individual gets, potentially getting taller than their parents, alongside the influence of genetics A trending video raises a question that many of us […]

19
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Can swallowing papaya seeds prevent pregnancy

Pallav Vyas / 12 months
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Papaya seeds can act as a natural contraceptive if swallowed whole, without chewing FACT: While consuming unripe or semi-ripe papaya, which contains latex with papain, may pose risks during pregnancy, including uterine contractions and miscarriage, but their use for birth control remains unsubstantiated A post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), […]

19
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Does sugar cause ADHD, dementia, glaucoma, aging, insomnia, or diabetes?

Allen Joe Mathew / 12 months
0
6 min read

A viral Instagram post by @daveymaher_fitness, who has 436,000 followers, claims that sugar has numerous harmful effects on the body, including the controversial statement that “sugar in a baby’s brsain is called ADHD.” The video titled “Truth about the effects of Sugar” has garnered 67 lakh views and 181,000 likes. “Sugar in a baby’s […]

18
Dec

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India needs 6 million nurses by 2030 to ward of newborn care crisis

admin / 12 months
0
2 min read

India will need six million additional nurses by 2030 to meet rising healthcare demands, with a significant focus on addressing the growing need for newborn care, a recent study reveals. “Neonatal mortality rates are highest in rural and resource-limited settings,” the study published by Lancet reveals. “These challenges are compounded by inconsistencies in national […]

18
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Can leaving your blanket quickly in cold weather trigger a cardiac arrest?

Sneha Richhariya / 12 months
0
3 min read

CLAIM: People over 30 shouldn’t leave their blanket abruptly due to cardiac arrest risk FACT: False. There is no scientific evidence that waking up suddenly at night can cause death A viral WhatsApp forward claims that waking up suddenly at night, especially in cold weather, can lead to a lack of blood supply to […]

17
Dec

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As Delhi’s mobility crisis deepens pollution levels, E-Rickshaw drivers bear the cost of clean commuting

Sneha Richhariya / 12 months
0
9 min read

New Delhi: “Badi gaadiyaan aati hain aur dhool udaake chali jaati hain hamare upar. [Big vehicles come, stir up dust, and leave it settling on us],” Ashraf Ali, an e-rickshaw driver in Delhi’s Nizamuddin area laments. Ali leaves for work at 7 AM and drives his e-rickshaw in the city till 10 PM on all working […]

16
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Is alkaline water good for health?

Pallav Vyas / 12 months
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Alkaline water is beneficial for health FACT: There’s no evidence to prove any significant benefits of drinking alkaline water A First Check reader recently posted a query on our WhatsApp tip line, asking if drinking alkaline water would afford any health benefits. “Is there any health benefits of alkaline water?, they asked on our […]

16
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Can wearing a tight underwear lower a man’s sperm count?

Pallav Vyas / 12 months
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Wearing a tight underwear lowers a man’s sperm count FACT: True. However, its link to infertility remains uncertain A post by the handle @Men_Sex_Health, shared on the X platform warns people against wearing tight underwear, saying it would reduce their sperm count by up to 40%. “Stop wearing tight underwear: Wearing underwear increases […]

14
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Should we be consuming multivitamins?

Pallav Vyas / 12 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Stop taking multivitamins as you can get dependent on them and they offer no health benefits FACT: Most research studies show little to no benefit from multivitamin use; however, some dieticians say that multivitamins can be a useful addition for individuals with restrictive diets, and busy lifestyles. A YouTube video with over 3 million views […]

13
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Does consuming lemongrass aid in lowering cholesterol?

Pallav Vyas / 12 months
0
2 min read

CLAIM: Consuming lemongrass aids in lowering cholesterol levels and improving heart health. FACT: Lemongrass may lower cholesterol, but effects have only been seen in laboratory rats, not clinical trials. Lemongrass can help lower cholesterol, according to a post shared on the popular social media platform X, formerly Twitter. “Lemongrass is anti-hypercholesterolemic and anti-hyperlipidemic […]

12
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Can staying in 40°C water cause a 1kg weight loss?

First Check Team / 12 months
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Sitting in 40°C water can lead to 500g-3kg weight loss FACT: Medical experts say no evidence to support the claim A YouTube video by a person identifying himself as Dr Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury claims that in a temperature of 40°C, if a person sits in water with the water level rising up to […]

12
Dec

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Think your body becomes resistant to antibiotics? Here’s why you’re wrong

Allen Joe Mathew / 12 months
0
4 min read

A major challenge in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) lies in the public’s fundamental misunderstanding of the issue, with many people mistakenly believing that the human body becomes resistant to antibiotics, when in fact, it is the bacteria themselves that evolve to withstand these medicines, says Dr Manica Balasegaram, a leading expert at the Global […]

11
Dec

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‘They’ll destroy me’: Techie’s last words ignite national debate on men’s justice

First Check Team / 12 months
0
4 min read

A 34-year-old techie, Atul Subhash, died by suicide at his Bengaluru residence, leaving behind a 24-page note in which he blamed his wife and her family for harassment. The incident has taken social media by storm, with many voicing concerns about perceived injustices against men. The victim, who was a Bangalore-based software engineer, expressed his […]

11
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Cancer misinformation gets new lease of life, after Sidhu’s ‘Diet-Based Cure’ for cancer claims

First Check Team / 12 months
0
7 min read

Last month, former cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu made headlines, when he claimed that his wife, Navjot Kaur, overcame Stage 4 cancer in just 40 days through a simple dietary and lifestyle regimen. While healthcare professionals were quick to call Sidhu out for the dangerous misinformation, that could potentially take patients away from medically proven treatment […]

10
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Did YesMadam fire ‘stressed’ employees, or was it a PR stunt?

First Check Team / 12 months
0
4 min read

YesMadam, an online beauty services platform, is facing a wave of criticism after an internal email surfaced, allegedly revealing that employees who reported high stress levels in a recent survey were fired. The email, which has gone viral on social media, has evoked mixed reactions and raised concerns about the company’s handling of employee […]

10
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Is John Abraham right about veg protein superiority?

Sneha Richhariya / 12 months
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Non-veg food does not have more protein than vegetarian food FACT: False. Non-veg food offers more protein, better for protein needs A video clip from the famous Kapil Sharma Show features Bollywood star John Abraham suggesting that vegetarian food is also a rich source of protein and so can be preferred over non-veg […]

09
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Can a single sip of alcohol increase your risk for cancer?

Sneha Richhariya / 12 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Even one sip of alcohol can put you at risk of cancer. FACT: While alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of certain cancers, the claim that a single sip leads to cancer risk oversimplifies the relationship. The risk depends on the amount and frequency of consumption, as well as individual health and […]

09
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Can tamarind seeds cure arthritis or alleviate its pain?

Allen Joe Mathew / 12 months
0
5 min read

First Check came across a video on Instagram, from the channel “The Sassy Sorceress” with more than 199k subscribers, which has raked up 6.2 million views and has been shared over 115k times, with more than 250,000 likes. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Sassy Sorceress (@the.sassy.sorceress) The […]

07
Dec

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How just 1% weight change in Large Language Models can inject dangerous misinformation in healthcare

First Check Team / 12 months
0
3 min read

Large Language Models (LLMs) hold great promise for healthcare applications, but a new study published in Nature warns that even minor manipulations—affecting just 1% of a model’s weights—can introduce harmful misinformation, posing significant risks to patient safety. “In our study, we demonstrate that misinformation such as malicious associations can be effectively injected into pretrained […]

06
Dec

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No, Himalayan salt is not healthier than iodized salt

First Check Team / 12 months
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Himalayan salt offers no significant health benefits compared to iodized salt FACT: No scientific evidence shows that Himalayan pink salt offers more health benefits than regular table salt A video posted on Instagram suggests that Himalayan pink salt is a superior alternative to regular table salt due to its mineral content. The video with […]

05
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Is your daily cup of chai making you gain weight?

Sneha Richhariya / 12 months
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Drinking chai daily leads to weight gain. FACT: Drinking chai in moderation does not inherently cause weight gain. Factors like added sugar, full-fat milk, and frequency of consumption determine its caloric impact. A YouTube short posted by internet sensation and nutrition coach, Ryan Fernando, claimed that consuming one cup of tea daily for a year can result […]

patharchatta as a remedy for kidney stones

05
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Can patharchatta leaves dissolve kidney stones?

Allen Joe Mathew / 12 months
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Patharchatta leaves can dissolve kidney stones FACT: There is no scientific evidence to show that patharchatta leaves do not dissolve kidney stones. Experts warn against such unscientific home remedies for kidney stones, adding that if left untreated the complications could include urinary tract infections, severe pain, and in extreme cases, kidney damage. Recently a […]

04
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Acidic foods increase cancer risk?

Florica Brahma / 12 months
0
4 min read

A popular video on Instagram, with about 20,000 likes and over a million views, claims that consuming acidic foods can raise the risk of cancer. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sanjeev Batra (@dr.sanjeev27) “Do you know that the cancerous tumours that occur in your body, they are made of […]

04
Dec

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Health of India Summit 2024 tackles heart disease, cancer, and AI challenges

First Check Team / 1 year
0
5 min read

Experts discussed evolving challenges and solutions for India’s health sector, focusing on heart disease, cancer treatment, and health misinformation, at this year’s Health of India Summit held in New Delhi on December 3. Madhukar K. Bhagat, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, highlighted the pressing challenges in India’s healthcare sector, including […]

03
Dec

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How prepared is India for future diseases? Experts discuss at Health of India Summit

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

New Delhi: The Health of India Summit 2024 at Hotel Shangri-La, New Delhi, brought together leading healthcare innovators to discuss India’s potential as a global hub for biopharmaceutical innovation, emphasizing the need for collaborative, rapid, and cost-effective R&D strategies to address current and emerging disease challenges. The session titled “Accelerating R&D Innovation for India’s Current […]

03
Dec

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HOI2024: Experts discuss AI’s role in transforming healthcare at Health of India Summit

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

New Delhi: At the Health of India Summit 2024 in New Delhi, experts highlighted the transformative potential of AI in revolutionizing Indian healthcare, from early tuberculosis detection in rural areas to advanced cancer prediction models, while emphasizing the need for ethical frameworks, accurate data, and patient-centric integration. The session, titled “AI & Health: How AI […]

03
Dec

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AI-fueled health misinformation, infectious diseases and natural remedy myths cause of concern: report

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

The “Health Misinformation Vectors in India” report, released at the Health of India Summit in Delhi, warns of AI-driven misinformation and the rise of infectious diseases like Marburg virus and Mpox, while highlighting a growing shift from evidence-based medicine to natural remedies influenced by local traditions. “Even on life threatening diseases like cancer, some of […]

02
Dec

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Health of India Summit 2024 to Explore AI and Healthcare Innovations

First Check Team / 1 year
0
2 min read

The Health of India Summit 2024, a flagship event organized by First Check and DataLEADS, will take place on December 3 at the Shangri-La Hotel, Ashoka Road, New Delhi. The summit is set to gather a significant number of delegates, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, industry leaders, and experts, to engage in pivotal discussions on […]

02
Dec

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FACT CHECK: Should you stop drinking vegetable juice?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Drinking vegetable juice is harmful and should be avoided. FACT: Vegetable juice can be a healthy addition to your diet when consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced nutritional plan. The First Check team came across a YouTube short from the account “DietTube India,” where the presenter claims that drinking vegetable […]

01
Dec

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UN report: Human rights key to ending AIDS by 2030

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

The world can end AIDS by 2030 if human rights are at the center of the effort, the Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) said in a statement on the occasion of the World Aids Day. Titled “Take the rights path to end AIDS,” the report outlines how stigma, discrimination, and punitive laws hinder […]

01
Dec

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India mandates snakebite reporting amid 50,000 annual deaths

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

In a significant move to combat underreported snakebite cases, the Indian Ministry of Health has made it mandatory for all government and private healthcare facilities to report suspected and confirmed snakebite cases and deaths. The decision follows concerns about the underreporting of such incidents, which has hindered efforts to understand and address the problem. In […]

30
Nov

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‘Dangerous form of misinformation’: More medical experts weigh in on Sidhu’s cancer cure claim

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

Cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu’s recent claim that his wife, Navjot Kaur Sidhu, overcame stage four cancer through a strict diet regimen has sparked controversy, with medical professionals cautioning that such statements risk spreading misinformation and offering false hope to patients battling the disease. First Check consulted leading medical experts including Dr. Sameer Kaul, Senior Consultant […]

28
Nov

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4 million Afghans battle addiction amid worsening health crisis: WHO

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

The World Health Organization has sounded the alarm on Afghanistan’s worsening humanitarian crisis, calling it one of the most severe globally due to widespread food insecurity and a growing substance use epidemic affecting 4 million people. The warning follows a three-day visit by WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Dr. Hanan Balkhy, who engaged […]

28
Nov

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Will AI revolutionise Indian healthcare by enabling self-diagnosis?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
7 min read

New Delhi: In May 2024, Ankit Gupta, a Delhi resident woke up from his deep slumber, hearing a strong beeping sound; but he couldn’t find the source of the sound. Worried about his ears ringing, he entered some of his symptoms into ChatGPT, an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered chatbot that scrapes the internet for information and […]

27
Nov

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UK-India health tech bootcamp returns with six Indian startups

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

The second edition of the week-long UK-India HealthTech Bootcamp began in the United Kingdom, on Sunday, November 24, featuring six Indian startups, which aims at furthering innovation and building business partnerships in the UK’s healthcare ecosystem. Chosen from a competitive pool of 262 applicants, the participating startups—Backyard Creators, Onward Assist, Neodocs, Niramai Health Analytix, Ramja […]

26
Nov

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FACT CHECK: Can a lung detox tea clean a smoker’s lungs?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
2 min read

CLAIM: A homemade tea can be used to detox lungs FACT: This is not true. Lungs cannot be detoxed by tea The First Check team came across a reel on Instagram with a claim that a “tea” can detox one’s lungs. Posted by @vaidyajayashreed, with 153,000 followers, the video has over 13.5 million views, 439,000 […]

26
Nov

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Sidhu shares controversial diet plan for cancer recovery amid expert backlash

First Check Team / 1 year
0
6 min read

Former cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu on Monday sparked criticism from health experts after claiming on social media that dietary and lifestyle changes cured his wife Navjot Kaur’s cancer. Despite the backlash, he has now gone ahead and shared a detailed diet plan. According to Sidhu, his wife’s cancer treatment involved surgeries, chemotherapy, hormonal and targeted […]

25
Nov

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FACT CHECK: Was Bill Gates indicted in Netherlands over COVID-19 vaccines

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Bill Gates has been indicted in the Netherlands for lying to the public about COVID-19 vaccines FACT: Not true, a Dutch court has merely accepted jurisdiction to hear a civil case involving vaccine-related claims A recent Dutch court ruling that it has jurisdiction to hear civil claims against Bill Gates related to COVID-19 vaccines […]

25
Nov

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COP29 highlights urgency of health action amid climate crisis

First Check Team / 1 year
0
4 min read

Health emerged as one of the major issues at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), which concluded in Baku, Azerbaijan, on November 22. Recognising the increasing risks that climate change poses to global health, the conference highlighted the importance of integrating health considerations into climate policies. A major highlight of COP29 was the establishment […]

23
Nov

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FACT CHECK: Medical experts debunk Sidhu’s claim of curing his wife’s Stage-4 cancer through diet

First Check Team / 1 year
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Turmeric, neem water, apple cider vinegar, lemon water, and lifestyle changes can cure cancer, claims cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu FACT: Doctors debunk the claim, saying there is no medical evidence supporting dietary or lifestyle changes as a cure for cancer Former cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu claimed on Friday that his wife, Navjot Kaur, overcame […]

22
Nov

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EXPLAINER: Is Virat Kohli’s steamed diet better than boiled or cooked?

Pallav Vyas / 1 year
0
5 min read

More often than not the media is abuzz with fad diets being endorsed by celebrities, such as a paleo diet, Keto diet, Atkins diet and the like. Recently, the former skipper of the Indian cricket team, Virat Kohli was featured in some prominent Indian dailies for advocating a vegetarian diet—to minimize the uric acid […]

21
Nov

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Survey of 21,000 Delhi-NCR residents finds every family battling pollution-related health problems

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

Around 75% of families in Delhi-NCR have reported at least one member suffering from respiratory problems due to toxic air quality, according to a survey conducted by LocalCircles, a community-based platform that connects people with local issues and enables them to share information, provide feedback, and engage with others on various topics. The survey, […]

21
Nov

# Tags

Newborn Care Week: Some Baby Myths and Facts

First Check Team / 1 year
0
4 min read

As Newborn Care Week is observed annually from November 15 to November 21, doctors and fact-checkers use this time to debunk common myths about newborn care. As part of this week, World Children’s Day is observed globally on November 20. The day serves as a platform to foster global unity, raise awareness of children’s issues, […]

21
Nov

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FACT CHECK: Are teflon-coated aluminum utensils harmful to health?

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Teflon-coated aluminium utensils are not safe and should be discarded FACT: They are safe for everyday use when used under 500°F (260°C) temperatures An Instagram reel flagged by a First Check reader through our WhatsApp tipline, claims that the teflon-coated aluminium utensils are harmful to health and urges viewers to discard them. The […]

19
Nov

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Vibrators or lipsticks? How India’s sex toys navigate legal gray areas

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

While there is no explicit legal provision in India barring the sale of sex toys, the lack of clear judicial guidelines has created a gray area, leaving businesses to navigate complex legal terrain. Companies often label sex toys as “massagers” to sidestep potential legal issues, but this practice raises concerns about consumer protection and could […]

19
Nov

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FACT CHECK: Are figs non-vegetarian due to wasp pollination?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Figs (Anjeer) are non-vegetarian as wasps are involved in the pollination process FACT: Figs come in multiple varieties, many of them don’t require wasps for pollination A couple of recent social media posts have claimed that figs are non-vegetarian. The claim originated on November 2 with a reel by @shashikant_iyengar, a verified account on […]

18
Nov

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FACT CHECK: Is milk from hormone-injected cows a cancer threat?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Hormones injected into cows linked to human cancer risk FACT: FALSE! There is no conclusive scientific evidence to support this The First Check team came across an Instagram post from the account “Satvik Movement, where they attribute a person’s recovery from cancer to the diet and lifestyle changes prescribed by Satvik Movement practitioners. […]

17
Nov

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Antimicrobial resistance as urgent as climate action: WHO chief

First Check Team / 1 year
0
4 min read

The action on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is “equally as urgent as climate action,” Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said at the Fourth Global High-Level Ministerial Meeting on Antimicrobial Resistance which began Friday in Jeddah. “AMR doesn’t just threaten to make the medicines on which we depend less effective; it’s happening […]

16
Nov

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Fact Check: Does loud snoring signal restful sleep?

Pallav Vyas / 1 year
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4 min read

CLAIM: Loud snoring is a deep and restful sleep FACT: No, it could signal serious breathing issues The quality of one’s sleep is contingent on many factors such as ageing, depression, medications, and circadian rhythm disorders. There’s an anecdotal account that snoring indicates a deep and restful sleep. However, medical evidence doesn’t support this. […]

15
Nov

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FACT CHECK: Does eating fish and milk together harm your health?

Pallav Vyas / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: The consumption of fish and milk leads to white patches on skin FACT: Medical evidence supporting this claim is non-existent There’s a lot of anecdotal wisdom that claims that consuming the fish and milk two together, or within a short interval of each other, could lead to white patches on one’s skin, […]

14
Nov

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STUDY: Quarter of world’s 828 million diabetes patients now in India

First Check Team / 1 year
0
4 min read

India is now home to over a quarter of the world’s diabetes cases, with 212 million adults affected, as global diabetes numbers reached 828 million—more than four times the count in 1990, according to a new analysis in The Lancet. India is followed by China with 148 million diabetes cases, and the USA (42 million), […]

14
Nov

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FACT CHECK: Can certain food help neutralise the “toxins” in food?

Pallav Vyas / 1 year
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5 min read

A First Check reader recently shared a video with us on our newly launched WhatsApp tip line, where a patron of ayurvedic treatment is seen saying that seven food spices can ward off the poisonous and toxic effects of all the food we consume, asking us to verify the claims. The video was shared with […]

13
Nov

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US obesity rate doubles since 1990, hits 208m in 2021, to reach 260m by 2050

First Check Team / 1 year
0
2 min read

By 2050, the number of US children and teens with overweight or obesity is expected to reach 43.1 million (up by 6.74 million from 2021), and adults 213 million (an increase of 41.4 million), highlighting the urgent need for nationwide action to reverse these trends and address significant geographical and sex disparities, according to […]

12
Nov

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FACT CHECK: Can clove-studded apple ease migraines, acidity?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
2 min read

CLAIM: Eating an apple with cloves inserted overnight on an empty stomach can cure acidity, migraines, and other ailments. FACT: The claim is false. No scientific evidence supports the idea that eating a clove-laced apple can cure health issues. A viral video on Instagram shows a Hindi speaking man handing out apples inserted with cloves to people at a […]

12
Nov

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Uneven vaccine access in India slows down immunisation for children

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

India has made exceptional advances in child immunisation, but differences in coverage across regions are holding back important goals, says a recent Lancet study. India ranked first in 2021 and second in 2023 for the highest absolute number of Zero Dose children globally and figures among the top 10 countries home to children missing […]

11
Nov

# Tags

Trump’s second term: RFK Jr. to lead health policy overhaul amid expert warnings

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

As concerns rise about the implications of a second Trump administration on global health, experts caution that his return to office could be “among the most destructive” for public health, potentially undermining trust in critical areas such as vaccines and medicine. Lawrence Gostin, Director of the World Health Organization’s Center on Global Health Law, cautioned […]

09
Nov

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Study: Demand for cannabis as pain reliever spurs calls for reliable YouTube content

First Check Team / 1 year
0
2 min read

As more people turn to cannabis for chronic pain relief, a new study reveals that only 22.7% of YouTube videos on the topic provide reliable, clinically accurate information. Researchers are calling for a verification process on the platform to prioritize accurate educational content, aiming to reduce misinformation and guide patients toward informed choices on cannabis […]

08
Nov

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FACT CHECK: The brown Vs white egg conundrum

First Check Team / 1 year
0
2 min read

Claim: Brown eggs are much healthier than white eggs Fact: There is no difference between the nutritional value of a brown or white egg Eggs are an excellent source of high nutrition, since they provide all vitamins except Vitamin C. They also contain macronutrients such as lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins. Further, eggs are also […]

08
Nov

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FACT CHECK: Are broiler chickens injected with hormones and steroids?

Pallav Vyas / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Are hormonal injections like steroids used in the production of broiler chicken? FACT: While there have been reports of the practice continuing in some parts of India despite a ban on growth hormones’ use in poultry, this does not appear to be the norm. Experts have said selective breeding, immunizations, and the use […]

06
Nov

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FACT CHECK: Which is safer and healthier- raw milk or pasteurized milk?

First Check Team / 1 year
0
4 min read

Should you be drinking raw milk over pasteurised milk? A social media user on X (formerly Twitter), claimed that raw or unpasteurised milk is a healthier alternative to pasteurised milk (milk that has been heated to a specific temperature for a pre-determined interval of time). Did you know this? Pasteurized milk is dangerous and should be […]

05
Nov

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Fact Check: Does poor oral hygiene cause heart attacks?

Pallav Vyas / 1 year
0
3 min read

Claim: Poor oral hygiene over time can lead to an increased risk of heart disease Fact: Poor oral hygiene affects health but has no direct link to heart attacks, experts say Teeth are an integral part of the human body, but they are often overlooked when analysing one’s health. That is, as long as […]

05
Nov

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Not just skin deep: Psoriasis also hits nails, joints

Pallav Vyas / 1 year
0
3 min read

Psoriasis is generally considered a skin condition with the itchy, flaky, and scaly patches of skin dominating all conversations around the disease. The fact that psoriasis also affects the nails and may simultaneously be the cause of arthritis is rarely mentioned, or known outside the medical fraternity. What is Psoriasis Psoriasis is a chronic condition […]

05
Nov

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Early-life sugar restriction can protect against diabetes and hypertension later in life

First Check Team / 1 year
0
2 min read

Reducing sugar intake during the first 1,000 days after conception—from conception through age two—may lower a child’s risk of developing chronic illnesses in adulthood. a new study published in Science has found. Leveraging data from post-World War II sugar rationing in the UK, the findings highlight critical long-term health benefits from reduced sugar intake […]

04
Nov

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The public health impact of gambling is large and increasing: Lancet

First Check Team / 1 year
0
5 min read

The Lancet Public Health Commission on gambling in a recent report has pointed out the prevalence of commercial gambling in over 80% of countries globally, with lower- and middle-income countries witnessing a particularly rapid growth in the activity. The gambling, the Commission warns, seriously undermines progress towards UN Sustainable Development Goals, with a “heavy […]

04
Nov

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Report: Heat-related deaths among seniors rise 167% in 2023 vs. 1990s

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

In 2023, global heat-related deaths among people over 65 soared by an unprecedented 167% compared to the 1990s — well beyond the 65% rise anticipated without climate change, finds the Lancet Countdown 2024 Report. What is more, the number of health-threatening heat days added by climate change is higher in countries with a low […]

03
Nov

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Report: Fossil fuel deaths drop 7% as global coal phase-out gains ground

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

Despite the severe health impacts of climate change, there are some reasons for cautious optimism. Deaths from fossil fuel-derived air pollution fell almost 7% from 2.25 million in 2016 to 2.09 million in 2021, with 59% of this decline due to efforts to reduce pollution from coal burning, demonstrating the life-saving potential of coal […]

02
Nov

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Study: Political polarization a major threat to public health

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

There is growing evidence that political polarization poses a substantial risk to individual and collective well-being, says a new study published in the journal Nature. Political polarization, according to the study, refers to “a state in which the opinions, beliefs or interests of a group or society no longer range along a continuum but […]

01
Nov

# Tags

2023: TB surpasses COVID-19 as leading global killer, India worst affected

First Check Team / 1 year
0
4 min read

In 2023, Tuberculosis (TB) reclaimed its position as the world’s leading cause of death, surpassing COVID-19, which had caused almost twice as many fatalities as HIV/AIDS during the previous three years, reveals the WHO’s Global Tuberculosis Report 2024. “Most of the people who develop TB disease each year are in 30 high TB […]

31
Oct

# Tags

FACT CHECK: Does sweetened lemonade have lower health benefits?

Pallav Vyas / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Sugar in lemonade restricts the body’s ability to absorb Vitamin C from lemon juice FACT: Indeed! Glucose from sugar is readily absorbed by the body, blocking the absorption of vitamin C In many cultures a glass of lemonade is the beverage of choice to beat the summer heat. The humble Shikanji or Nimbu […]

30
Oct

# Tags

Election results to affect patient, community health, health care delivery system in US: Medical journal

First Check Team / 1 year
0
2 min read

As the election date approaches in the USA, the outcome is expected to affect patient and community health, as well as the health care delivery system, in profound ways, a latest article in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) says. The journal identifies key health-related issues likely to influence voters, including […]

30
Oct

# Tags

Fact Check: Can drinking too much coffee trigger hair loss?

Pallav Vyas / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: A popular social media post claims that coffee consumption leads to hair loss FACT: There’s little evidence to firmly link excessive caffeine intake to hair loss in people A Redditt user going by the name ArachWitch claims that he is convinced of the hair-thinning effects of consuming coffee. “I’m convinced caffeine consumption increases hair […]

29
Oct

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West Bengal extends ban on gutkha and pan masala for another year

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

The West Bengal government has renewed its ban on the manufacturing, storage, and sale of gutkha and pan masala products containing tobacco or nicotine for an additional year, effective November 7. This ban has been consistently extended annually since 2012. “The Commissioner of Food Safety of the state is empowered under Section 30 of the […]

29
Oct

# Tags

Fact Check: Is fake paneer made by mixing milk powder with oils to mimic real paneer?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: A viral video says “analogue paneer” is made by mixing milk powder with oils to mimic real paneer FACT : It is true. The FSSAI defines analogue paneer as safe, though it’s not the same as traditional paneer Recent social media claims about the production of authentic and synthetic paneer have raised concerns […]

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