admin - Page 7 of 16 - First Check

26
May

# Tags

Fact Check: Can a drink made from garlic, lemon, and turmeric cure all diseases?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: A drink made from garlic, lemon, turmeric, and pepper permanently boosts immunity and prevents all diseases, according to Barbara O’Neil FACT: False. No scientific evidence supports this claim, and O’Neil is banned in Australia for spreading dangerous health misinformation First Check came across a video of Barbara O Neil, the controversial Australian naturopath who […]

26
May

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Fresh COVID concern: NB.1.8.1 variant found in US, after China, India surge

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
2 min read

A new COVID-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, linked to a significant surge in cases in China, has been detected among international travelers arriving at US airports, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) airport screening program. The variant, which has sparked global concern due to its rapid spread in Asia, was identified through the […]

25
May

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Study links social media to teen depression

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
2 min read

Increased social media use among preteens may contribute to higher levels of depressive symptoms over time, a new study published in JAMA Network Open revealed. This cohort study, conducted by a team led by Jason M. Nagata from the University of California, San Francisco, tracked nearly 12,000 children aged 9 to 13 over three years, […]

23
May

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Fact Check: Does turmeric cause cancer due to lead chromate adulteration?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Turmeric can lead to cancer because it contains lead chromate FACT: Lead chromate’s carcinogenic properties make chronic exposure a concern, theoretically increasing cancer risk over time. However, the assertion that turmeric itself “causes cancer” is misleading, as it implies the spice is inherently dangerous. Proper sourcing and regulation can mitigate risks. First Check came […]

23
May

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Taurine, an energy drink ingredient, doesn’t cause cancer but helps blood cancer cells grow

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

Taurine, a popular amino acid found in energy drinks and supplements, could be driving the growth of leukemia, a type of blood cancer, according to a new study from the University of Rochester’s Wilmot Cancer Institute. Published in Nature, the research reveals that leukemia cells rely on taurine to fuel their aggressive spread, raising concerns […]

22
May

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Toxic plastic chemical linked to 1 lakh heart deaths in India: Lancet study

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
2 min read

A common plastic-softening chemical, di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), caused 103,587 heart disease deaths in India in 2018, according to a Lancet eBioMedicine study. Found in food packaging, medical devices, and cosmetics, DEHP is fueling a health crisis in India, where plastic use is surging. The global study estimates DEHP exposure caused 356,238 heart disease deaths worldwide […]

22
May

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Declining birth rates in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Delhi signals demographic shift

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

The southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala and the capital, Delhi, are witnessing a dramatic decline in birth rates, dropping at more than twice the national average, according to the Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2021, released by the Registrar General of India last week. Driven by rising female education and socio-economic progress, […]

21
May

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Explainer: What is trachoma and how India eliminated it

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

India on Monday was awarded the Certificate of Elimination of Trachoma as a Public Health Problem by World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus at the 78th World Health Assembly held in Geneva. “This recognition is a testament to India’s sustained efforts in disease elimination, preventive healthcare, and commitment to ensuring health for […]

21
May

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Fact-Check: Black plastics cause cancer and reduce lifespan

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

Claim: Black Plastics contain flame retardants which are carcinogens and can reduce one’s lifespan Fact: True. But the study which has been used as the reference for this claim also adds that “further studies are needed to replicate these findings and determine the underlying mechanisms.” An instagram video titled, “Stop Using Black Plastic – […]

20
May

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Study links high poultry intake to increased risk of GI cancer death

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

Consuming more than 300 grams of poultry per week may significantly increase the risk of death from gastrointestinal cancers, according to a new population-based study conducted in southern Italy. The research, published in the journal Nutrients, analyzed data from nearly 5,000 adults enrolled in the two different cohort studies. Participants’ dietary habits were assessed using […]

20
May

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Joe Biden’s prostrate cancer diagnosis: Indian doctor warns of growing risk at home

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

Former US President Joe Biden’s recent diagnosis of aggressive, advanced prostate cancer has brought global attention to the disease and its impact on men’s health. In India, prostate cancer is fast becoming a major concern, though awareness remains alarmingly low, warns Dr. Ramesh Sarin, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology, who has over three decades of experience […]

20
May

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New WHO accord promises fairer, faster response to future pandemics

First Check Team / 1 year
0
4 min read

Geneva: In a landmark move aimed at strengthening global defences against future pandemics, the World Health Organization (WHO) member states on Monday formally adopted by consensus the world’s first pandemic agreement. The decision, taken at the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, marks the culmination of over three years of intense negotiations triggered by the […]

19
May

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New COVID-19 wave in Asia raises concerns for India

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
4 min read

A new wave of COVID-19 cases sweeping across Asian countries like Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand signals a threat to India, potentially triggering a fresh wave of infections. While Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Thailand are experiencing surges in COVID-19 cases primarily due to waning immunity, India currently reports 257 active cases. This has […]

19
May

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FACT CHECK: Stress doesn’t cause PCOS, CBD oil doesn’t cure it, fenugreek may help

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
4 min read

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) are complex hormonal disorders affecting millions of women globally, yet a lot of misinformation about their causes and treatments persist. First Check verified three such claims sent in by readers through our tipline, with insights from a medical expert. Claim 1: PCOS/PCOD is caused by stress […]

17
May

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World Hypertension Day: Rising Stress, poor sleep, and addiction is fueling hypertension in youth, says expert

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
8 min read

World Hypertension Day, observed on May 17, aims to raise awareness about hypertension, a condition affecting millions globally and increasingly prevalent in India. Often called the “silent killer,” hypertension is the most significant chronic disease risk factor in India. According to recent epidemiological studies, hypertension is on the rise in India, with rural and youthful […]

16
May

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National Dengue Day 2025: India steps up fight against mosquito-borne diseases

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

India is marking National Dengue Day on May 16 amid growing concerns over a potential surge in mosquito-borne diseases during the monsoon season. With the early onset of rains increasing the risk of infections like dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and yellow fever, the Union Health Ministry has directed all air, sea, and land ports to step […]

16
May

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FACT CHECK: Is it safe to eat refrigerated food?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Refrigerating food is perfectly safe and doesn’t lead to nutrient loss or health issues if done right. FACT: True. Refrigeration at or below 40°F (4°C) slows down the growth of harmful bacteria, which can cause food-borne illness. Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If stored for too […]

15
May

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Oxford study warns weight-loss injections may require lifelong use

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

Weight-loss injections, seen as a breakthrough for obesity treatment, may require lifelong use or need to be combined with major lifestyle changes to avoid regaining the lost weight, a new study by Oxford University researchers has revealed. The study, which examined data from 11 trials involving over 6,300 patients, found that while these drugs can […]

15
May

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AI tool ‘FaceAge’ predicts cancer survival using just a photo

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

A new artificial intelligence (AI) tool called FaceAge can now use facial images to estimate an individual’s biological age and forecast survival in cancer patients with unprecedented accuracy. Detailed in a study published in The Lancet Digital Health titled “FaceAge, a deep learning system to estimate biological age from face photographs to improve prognostication: a […]

15
May

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Spit tests show promise in early detection of Alzheimer’s and cancer: Study

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
2 min read

New research shows that our spit can reveal information about everything from cancer to neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s. This inexpensive, painless method of testing for severe diseases has the potential to revolutionize the way we keep an eye on our health. Saliva contains small amounts of proteins, DNA, and other chemicals that alter when a […]

14
May

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AI accurately detects patient race from medical images – even when humans can’t: Study

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

Artificial intelligence systems can accurately identify a patient’s race from medical images even when clinical experts cannot, according to new research that raises concerns about potential bias in healthcare applications. A study published in the European Heart Journal – Digital Health found that AI models trained on cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging could reliably classify […]

14
May

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1.5 billion children born after 2020 face lifetime heatwave exposure: Study

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

Over half of children born during 2020 and after will experience significantly more extreme weather events during their lifetimes than previous generations, even if global warming is limited to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, according to a latest study published in Nature. The international study titled “Global emergence of unprecedented lifetime exposure to climate […]

14
May

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What triggers high uric acid levels? Genetics, diet, and more explained by an expert

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
4 min read

High uric acid levels, known as hyperuricemia, occur when your body produces excess uric acid or your kidneys struggle to eliminate it. This can trigger gout, a painful condition with swollen joints, often in the big toe, caused by uric acid crystal deposits. But what causes these levels to rise? How can you spot the […]

13
May

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STUDY: Teens with mental health conditions spend more time on social media

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

Adolescents with clinical mental health conditions use social media differently than their peers without such conditions, spending significantly more time online and experiencing greater dissatisfaction with their virtual social connections, according to research published earlier this month, in Nature Human Behaviour. The researchers from University of Cambridge analyzed data from 3,340 British adolescents aged 11 […]

13
May

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Kidney expert Dr Vijay Kher warns: Hydration is key in ‘stone season’

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

As temperatures climb across the country, it also heralds the arrival of what many doctors call “stone season” – the time of year when cases of painful kidney stones spike due to increased dehydration. The Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology had estimated that during summers, “there is a sharp increase in the number of […]

13
May

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Myopic CNVM: Journalist shares journey with condition that could potentially lead to irreversible vision loss

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
6 min read

In December 2024, Rituparna Chatterjee, a senior journalist and editor, noticed something alarming: straight lines appeared wavy, words looked distorted as if viewed through a thick glass bottle, and a gray patch clouded the center of her right eye’s vision. Rushing to a doctor, she underwent a series of tests, only to receive a devastating […]

12
May

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New WHO action plan aims to make clinical trials fairer and more inclusive

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
2 min read

The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a new Global Action Plan for Clinical Trial Ecosystem Strengthening (GAP-CTS), aiming to improve clinical trials worldwide. The plan focuses on making trials fairer, more inclusive, and better suited to local needs, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This comes after WHO’s 2024 guidelines for clinical trials […]

12
May

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Caring like a daughter: Manipur nurse’s story highlights India’s nursing woes

First Check Team / 1 year
0
7 min read

Watching her mother’s health struggles while growing up made Hoilenchong Sitlhoum from Manipur choose nursing as her career. “At that time, it was difficult to get doctors and nurses… We did not even have someone to give injections in emergencies also. So I decided then itself that I would become a nurse,” she said, speaking […]

09
May

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FACT CHECK: Do eggs feed viruses or cause chronic illnesses?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Eggs feed viruses and bacteria in the body and worsen chronic illnesses such as eczema, PCOS, and endometriosis FACT: False. Eggs are a nutrient-rich food with no scientific link to promoting viruses or causing chronic illnesses A health coach, Theo Bergmann claims in an Instagram video that eggs are the “most overrated health food,” […]

09
May

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STUDY: Overuse of CT scans poses significant long-term cancer risk

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
4 min read

Repeated exposure to unnecessary computed tomography (CT) scans may pose a significant cancer risk, a recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine has found. The research estimates that CT scans performed in the United States in 2023 could lead to approximately 103,000 future cancer diagnoses, accounting for nearly 5% of all new cancer cases in […]

08
May

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Brown rice has more arsenic than white: Study

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

Brown rice contains higher levels of arsenic, a toxic chemical element, compared to white rice, raising concerns about long-term health risks, including cancer, according to a study from Michigan State University (MSU). The study published in the journal Risk Analysis led by senior investigator Felicia Wu, John A. Hannah, distinguished professor at MSU’s College of […]

08
May

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Older adults overlooked in HIV fight: Lancet study

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

HIV prevention campaigns have remained focussed on the young, driven by outdated risk perceptions, even as infections are rising among older adults, a Lancet Healthy Longevity study has revealed. The research, led by Dr. Luicer Olubayo from the Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience at Wits University, highlighted that HIV prevalence among adults over 50 […]

07
May

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FACT CHECK: Are women at a lower risk for heart attack?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Heart Diseases are directly connected to the sex of a person, with females being at lower risk. FACT: Largely true; while it is true that heart disease is more prevalent in men than women, there are some nuances that should not be ignored either. First Check came across a video on YouTube titled […]

07
May

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India climbs to 130 in global human development index: UNDP report

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

Global progress in human development has slowed to its weakest pace in 35 years but India has improved its Human Development Index (HDI) rank to 130 out of the 193 countries surveyed in 2023, reveals the UNDP’s Human Development Report, released on Tuesday. Previously India was at the 133rd position, the gain has been driven […]

06
May

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FACT CHECK: Is folic acid harmful as Barbara O’Neill claims?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

Barbara O’Neill, a prominent figure in alternative medicine circles, has urged women to reconsider using folic acid supplements, claiming that excessive intake may pose health risks. Posting on X, she advises that nutrients should be obtained from food rather than pills. “Think twice before reaching for your folic acid supplement,” she warns, suggesting that isolated […]

06
May

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World Asthma Day: Dr GC Khilnani on tackling India’s asthma crisis with awareness and innovation

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
8 min read

India is home to close to 3.5 crore people with asthma, a chronic respiratory condition affecting over 25 crore people worldwide. This means that 1 in every 50 people in the country has Asthma. In its national capital, Delhi, the rates are even more alarming, with up to 29.4% of children affected, driven largely by […]

05
May

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India global leader in cardiovascular deaths linked to plastics, study in The Lancet finds

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
4 min read

According to a new study in The Lancet eBioMedicine, India saw over 1 lakh of cardiovascular deaths attributable to plastic polymers and their chemical additives, the highest in the world. This once again highlights how everyday items such as plastic containers, toys, cosmetics, and even food packaging may be silently endangering millions of lives in […]

05
May

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Experts warn BMI no longer a reliable health indicator, urge better metrics

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

For years, Body Mass Index (BMI) has been the standard tool for assessing whether an individual has a healthy weight. But doctors are now referring to it as an outdated and an often-misleading metric. BMI is a rough guide doctors use to check if a person’s weight is in a healthy range for their height. […]

05
May

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Vaccines are your best friend!

Mariyam Alavi / 1 year
0
3 min read

154 million lives in 50 years. 6 lives. Every minute. Every day. For 5 decades. That is the number of lives saved by vaccines, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Yet even today, there are many who are hesitant and even outright refuse to take the life-saving shots, because misinformation about safety concerns, side […]

05
May

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Simple ways to reduce microplastics in what you eat and drink

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
2 min read

Microplastics, which are plastic fragments smaller than 5 millimetres, have entered food, water, and even our bodies. This has transformed an environmental crisis into a personal health challenge. But there is no need to worry. You can reduce microplastics in your food and water. Here are practical ways to minimise microplastic exposure. Can boiling water […]

02
May

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Semaglutide marks breakthrough in reversing fatty liver disease: expert

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

A new potential treatment for fatty liver disease is making waves after initial results from a clinical trial showed that nearly two in three patients reduced liver fat and inflammation with weekly semaglutide injections over 18 months. Published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the ongoing trial offers hope for millions battling Metabolic Dysfunction–Associated […]

02
May

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STUDY: Same-arm vaccine shots help your body fight off infection faster

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
2 min read

Getting a COVID-19 booster shot in the same arm as the initial vaccine dose may significantly speed up the body’s immune response, according to new research from Sydney, Australia, published in the journal Cell. The study, led by scientists at Sydney’s Garvan Institute of Medical Research and the Kirby Institute at UNSW Sydney, reveals how […]

02
May

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FACT CHECK: Is finasteride really better than minoxidil for hair loss?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Finasteride is better than minoxidil for hair loss FACT: Partly true. Studies do show that finasteride has produced better results than minoxidil, but both have different uses. Finasteride is useful to maintain existing hair and minoxidil is used to stimulate hair follicles for new hair. Finasteride and minoxidil are the two most […]

01
May

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Supreme Court orders inclusive KYC for blind and acid attack survivors

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court on Wednesday declared digital access a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution, issuing 20 directives to ensure the Know-Your-Customer (KYC) process is accessible for visually impaired individuals and acid attack survivors with eye or facial disfigurements. The judgment, delivered by Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan, […]

01
May

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STUDY: Is your biological age more than your chronological age? It may raise dementia risk

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

People whose biological age is higher than their chronological age may be more likely to develop dementia than people whose biological age matches or is lower than their chronological age, according to a study published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. “Biological age is based on biomarkers of aging such […]

30
Apr

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FACT CHECK: Vaccines may reduce lifespan, a prominent CEO and YouTuber falsely claims

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: A well-known CEO and YouTuber suggests that taking vaccines could shorten a person’s life FACT: False, multiple studies have highlighted the benefits of vaccines and how they have contributed to increasing longevity across the world The founder and CEO of Bombay Shaving Company, Shantanu Deshpande recently posted on LinkedIn mentioning “vaccines” as one […]

30
Apr

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Measles returns: US sees worst outbreak in decades

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
2 min read

The United States is witnessing a significant measles outbreak, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting 884 confirmed cases in 30 states as of April 24, 2025. Measles was declared eliminated in the US in 2000. But a large outbreak in West Texas, where 646 cases and two child fatalities have driven […]

29
Apr

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Vaccine hesitancy: The impending challenge to complete coverage

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
4 min read

Vaccines are known to save lives, with the World Health Organization estimating that immunisations “currently prevents 3.5 million to 5 million deaths every year from diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), influenza and measles.” However, despite the evidence about the efficacy and safety of vaccines, we are constantly plagued by myths and misinformation about […]

29
Apr

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Delhi launches ₹10 lakh health scheme for seniors aged 70+

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
2 min read

The Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana, a health insurance scheme, launched by the Delhi government on Monday offers free medical treatment of up to ₹10 lakh yearly for citizens aged 70 and above. What is the health scheme about? The Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana is an extension of the central government’s Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan […]

29
Apr

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STUDY: Young need meat, older adults need plants for longevity

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

Switching from animal-based to plant-based protein affects people differently depending on their age, a study published in the journal Nature has found. Researchers analyzed data from 101 countries between 1961 and 2018 to understand how changing diets could impact health. They found that “after adjusting for time, population size, and economic factors, we find associations […]

28
Apr

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World Immunization Week: Vaccinations beyond childhood immunisations

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

To many vaccinations are something that you go through as children, with little to no focus on vaccinations that need to be taken in their later years. However, the scientific community is increasingly about talking about adult vaccinations and a life-course approach to vaccinations, to ensure that protection against certain dangerous infectious diseases last beyond […]

28
Apr

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World Immunization Week: Vaccines are probably one of the biggest innovation of the 20th century, says Dr Soumya Swaminathan

Mariyam Alavi / 1 year
0
17 min read

According to the World Health Organization six lives have been saved every minute for the last 50 years, because of essential vaccines—that is 15.4 crore lives in five decades. “In these 50 years, vaccination accounts for 40% of the improvement in infant survival, and more children now live to see their first birthday and […]

26
Apr

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Vaccines will play an important role in eliminating TB: ICMR Chief

First Check Team / 1 year
0
6 min read

As India inches closer to the deadline it set itself to eliminate tuberculosis in the country, the Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research has said that vaccines for TB will play an important role in this endeavour. Dr Rajiv Bahl was speaking during the roundtable discussion on ‘Asia Region TB Vaccine R&D […]

25
Apr

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India launches mission to eliminate measles and rubella by 2026

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda virtually launched the National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign 2025-26 on Thursday, coinciding with the start of World Immunization Week (April 24-30). The initiative aims to eliminate measles and rubella in India by 2026, two highly infectious viral diseases that can lead to serious health complications. During […]

25
Apr

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World Malaria Day: Will India be able to eliminate the disease completely by 2030?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
9 min read

India is on an ambitious path to eliminate malaria by 2030, and we seem to have made some progress. With improved surveillance and access to diagnosis and medicines, the number of malaria deaths in the country has reduced, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Commonwealth Malaria Report show. However, while cases have dropped significantly […]

24
Apr

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Immunization Week 2025: Have you taken all the required vaccines before turning 18? Here’s what you need to know

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
4 min read

Vaccines are more than just a childhood milestone or a scar on our elders’ arms in India, where infectious diseases have historically posed serious health threats. They are a lifelong defense against fatal diseases that have the potential to cripple us. But do you know all the necessary vaccines one should get before turning 18? […]

23
Apr

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Microplastics found in human ovaries for the first time, raising fertility fears

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

Scientists have found microplastics in human ovarian follicular fluid for the first time, sparking urgent concerns about their potential impact on women’s fertility. The peer-reviewed study, published in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, detected microplastics in 14 out of 18 women undergoing assisted reproductive treatment at a fertility clinic in Salerno, Italy, highlighting the pervasive reach […]

'fake' cardiologist narendra vikramaditya yadav

23
Apr

# Tags

Chhattisgarh police book ‘fake’ cardiologist, hospital management in 2006 death of then MLA

First Check Team / 1 year
0
5 min read

After his arrest by the Madhya Pradesh police, alleged ‘fake’ cardiologist Narendra Vikramaditya Yadav has been booked by the Chhattisgarh Police on culpable homicide not amounting to murder and forgery charges, among others, in connection with the 2006 death of then Chhattisgarh MLA Rajendra Prasad Shukla. The management of the Apollo Hospital in Bilaspur, where […]

22
Apr

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FACT CHECK: Can nicotine really dissolve brain tumors in 72 Hours?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM Nicotine infusions can cure glioblastoma tumors, type 1 diabetes, and even autism. FACT: There is no scientific evidence to support these claims. Experts warn that nicotine is a neurotoxin, not a cure. A viral video on Instagram features Dr Bryan Adris, a licensed American Chiropractor, Acupuncturist, and Nutritionist and an alternative medicine practitioner, […]

22
Apr

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Iodine test turns blue, but that doesn’t mean paneer at Gauri Khan’s Torii is fake

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
2 min read

What began as a viral iodine test at Torii, a celebrity restaurant run by Gauri Khan, quickly turned into a cautionary tale about food misinformation—drawing in the top chef Vikas Khanna who termed it as “terrible misinformation.” – and a reminder that social media clout is no substitute for expertise. Sarthak Sachdeva’s video, which was […]

22
Apr

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Stroke and irreversible heart failure led to Pope Francis’s Death, Vatican Says

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

Pope Francis died following a cerebral stroke and irreversible heart failure, the Vatican confirmed in its official medical report. Pope, 88, was the first person of Latin American origin to become the leader of the Catholic Church. A cerebral stroke happens when a portion of the brain’s blood supply is cut off or blocked, depriving […]

21
Apr

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Hope for cancer patients: New cell therapy may help where chemotherapy has failed

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

In what scientists are calling a “crack in the solid wall of cancer,” a new form of personalized immunotherapy has shown promising results in shrinking tumors in patients with hard-to-treat gastrointestinal cancers. The treatment, developed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), uses the body’s own immune cells—called Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes (TILs)—to attack and destroy […]

21
Apr

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Hepatitis? No. Jaundice? No! The Liver Doc shares how a unique case was diagnosed to be no ‘disease’ at all

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
5 min read

This World Liver Day, we are revisiting an interesting case shared earlier this year by Dr Cyriac Abby Philips, popularly knows as “The Liver Doc,” which highlights a crucial misunderstanding about liver function tests that could save many from unnecessary worry—rigorous exercise could result in elevated liver function test counts. The case involves a young […]

21
Apr

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The silent epidemic: Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease on the rise in India

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
5 min read

Did you know that even if you don’t drink, you could still get Liver damage? And, no, it’s not because someone punched you in the gut. It’s called the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or NAFLD in short, which is First Check’s focus for the World Liver Day. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is rapidly emerging as […]

18
Apr

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Millions may have this overlooked form of diabetes. It now has a name

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
4 min read

A new type of diabetes, defying the symptoms and characteristics of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, has been officially classified as “Type 5,” decades after it was first identified. The announcement was made last week by Prof. Peter Schwarz, president of the International Diabetes Federation, during the World Congress of Diabetes 2025 in Bangkok. […]

17
Apr

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‘Andar kheecho yaar!’: Video shows UP doctor making 5-year-old smoke to ‘cure’ cold

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

In a disturbing incident, a doctor at a government hospital in Jalaun, Uttar Pradesh, allegedly instructed a five-year-old boy to smoke a cigarette as a treatment for a cold. The strange moment was caught on camera and extensively shared on social media, sparking widespread outrage. Health authorities have responded by transferring the doctor, and ordering […]

17
Apr

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STUDY: Just a little weekly exercise can reduce dementia risk by 15%

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

Researchers have found that even small amounts of weekly physical activity can help reduce the risk of developing mild dementia. The findings come from a long-term study conducted in Mexico City, offering the first evidence of its kind from Latin America. “This longitudinal analysis suggests that the weekend warrior physical activity pattern is associated with […]

17
Apr

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IAPSMCON 2025: The 3 biggest takeaways from the event in Srinagar

First Check Team / 1 year
0
7 min read

Srinagar: The Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine held their three-day 52nd annual conference, called the IAPSMCON 2025, in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, from April 11 to 13, with First Check as partner. The event, which was inaugurated by the Jammu and Kashmir Health and Medical Education Secretary, Dr Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, saw […]

16
Apr

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STUDY: 3 million children lost to antibiotic resistance in 2022

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

A new study has revealed that more than three million children around the world died in 2022 because of antibiotic resistance (AMR), a biological phenomenon where the infections one contracts no longer respond to standard antibiotic treatments. The report, compiled by researchers from the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute in Australia and the Clinton Health Access […]

15
Apr

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Fact Check: Is starving to lose weight a healthy option?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

Orhan Awatramani, an Indian internet personality, fashion icon, and socialite, recently claimed that he lost weight after practicing a grueling regimen of self-imposed starving during late 2023. Speaking on an episode of “The Suvir Saran Show,” Orry, as he is widely known, said that the extreme routine paid off. “I was really fat, I was […]

14
Apr

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New study links heavy drinking to brain damage, early death

First Check Team / 1 year
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3 min read

People who consume eight or more alcoholic drinks a week are more likely to show signs of brain injury, including lesions and tau tangles associated with memory loss and dementia, according to a new study published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. The study also noted that heavy drinkers died […]

14
Apr

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FACT CHECK: Are your good looks because you’re the younger sibling? Here’s what science says

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
4 min read

Have you ever thought about how physical attractiveness varies among siblings? Well, First Check came across a reel on Instagram with over 117k views titled “Beauty Difference in Siblings,” that puts forth an explanation. “Are you more physically attractive or are your siblings? This is less dependent on your genes and more on your birth […]

12
Apr

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WHO nations reach agreement ‘in principle’ on future pandemic treaty: report

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

Geneva, Switzerland: After nearly three years of negotiations, member countries of the World Health Organization (WHO) have reached an agreement “in principle” on how the world should respond to future pandemics, AFP reported on Saturday. Anne-Claire Amprou, who also serves as France’s ambassador for global health, told the AFP that the final version of the […]

11
Apr

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Fatty fish, berries, and fiber: Best foods for Parkinson’s, says Mumbai neurologist

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
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3 min read

Parkinson’s disease, a progressive movement disorder of the brain, demands proper dietary care to maintain brain health and manage symptoms. Although no diet can cure Parkinson’s, experts agree that nutrition is important in reducing risk, slowing disease progression, and enhancing overall well-being. Today, on World Parkinson’s Day, First Check spoke with Dr. Pankaj Agarwal, Head […]

10
Apr

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World’s first baby born through fully automated IVF system

First Check Team / 1 year
0
2 min read

A baby boy has been born in Mexico using a fully automated IVF system—marking a major breakthrough in fertility treatment. This is the first time an artificial intelligence-assisted system has carried out every step of the sperm injection process without human intervention. The new technology replaces the traditional intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) method, which has […]

10
Apr

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New blood test may predict cervical cancer relapse

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

New Delhi: Researchers at the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, have developed a simple blood test that can tell whether a patient’s cervical cancer is responding to treatment or not. The study, led by Dr. Mayank Singh, who is an associate professor of medical oncology at AIIMS, discovered that small pieces of HPV […]

10
Apr

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STUDY: Conceived in winter? You are less likely to gain weight later in life

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

Conception during the cold season lowers the risk of developing obesity, says a new study. Published in Nature Metabolism on April 7, the study found that people conceived in winter show more brown adipose tissue (BAT) activity, often known as brown fat, which burns calories to produce heat unlike white fat that stores energy. “Individuals […]

09
Apr

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EXPLAINER: US vape ruling confirms health risks of e-cigarettes

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
2 min read

Last week, the US Supreme Court court upheld the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) rejection of applications from two manufacturers of flavored e-cigarette liquids. This decision backed the FDA’s directive banning retailers from marketing flavored tobacco products, underscoring escalating worries about the health dangers posed by e-cigarettes. The court’s ruling Earlier the vaping companies Triton […]

09
Apr

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The Lancet: 500,000 children could die of AIDS by 2030 if US funding to AIDS program not restored

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

A new study published in The Lancet warns that if the US fails to continue funding the PEPFAR programme, it could lead to over 1 million new paediatric HIV infections and nearly half a million child deaths by 2030. “The future of PEPFAR programmes hang in the balance. Losing stable, long-term support for PEPFAR programmes […]

08
Apr

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Madhya Pradesh ‘fake’ doctor scandal: Who is Narendra Vikramaditya Yadav?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
5 min read

Narendra Vikramaditya Yadav, the fake doctor impersonating a UK-trained cardiologist and the central figure in the disturbing medical scandal centered in Damoh, Madhya Pradesh, was arrested on April 7, 2025, in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Allegedly posing as Professor A. John Camm, a highly respected cardiologist affiliated with St. George’s University of London, Yadav is accused […]

08
Apr

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Dettol defamation case: Podcast host agrees to edit podcast clip criticizing antiseptic liquid

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
2 min read

Social media influencer Raj Shamani on Tuesday told the Delhi High Court that he will edit and remove the portion of a YouTube video of his podcast where dermatologist Dr. Manjot Marwah made disparaging claims about Dettol antiseptic liquid. The undertaking formed a part of the settlement reached between Shamani and Reckitt Benckiser India, the […]

08
Apr

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FACT CHECK: Do boxers really get their swellings cut open mid-fight?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: In boxing films, swelling around a fighter’s eye is often shown being treated by slicing it open — is this a legitimate medical practice? FACT: False. Medical experts confirm that cutting open a swelling is unsafe, never used in professional sports, and can lead to serious complications like infection. The punches are landing […]

08
Apr

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Medical fraud shocker: At least seven people die after being operated on by fake doctor in Damoh, Madhya Pradesh

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
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6 min read

In a shocking case of medical fraud, a ‘fake’ doctor, posing as a British-trained cardiologist, allegedly performed heart surgeries at the Mission Hospital in Damoh, Madhya Pradesh, resulting in the deaths of at least seven patients, including Mangal Singh, the 63-year-old father of Dharmendra Singh, a resident of Damoh. Narendra Vikramaditya Yadav, who was allegedly […]

07
Apr

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STUDY: Weekend workouts may be enough to keep you healthy

First Check Team / 1 year
0
4 min read

You don’t have to hit the gym every day to stay healthy. That’s the message from a new study that finds that one or two days of exercise, also called the “weekend warrior” routine, may be just as effective as doing it everyday. “You don’t need to exercise every day to stay healthy,” said Dr […]

07
Apr

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Women’s Health Matters

Mariyam Alavi / 1 year
0
3 min read

Hello! As promised in the previous newsletter, the month of March was dedicated to Women’s Health at First Check, where we focused on women centric stories. However, while we had started out to educate our readers and arm them with credible and verified information, it was us who truly learnt something by the end of […]

04
Apr

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Fact Check: Does sunscreen increase cancer risk?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

An Instagram reel claims that sunscreens are dangerous, citing a 2019 FDA report to argue that their chemicals, including oxybenzone, penetrate the bloodstream after just one use, exceed safety standards, and may increase skin cancer risk, particularly melanoma. The video has garnered significant traction with 25 million views and 330,560 likes. “Don’t use sunscreens … […]

03
Apr

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Rising fungal diseases: WHO flags critical gaps in treatment and diagnosis

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

The World Health Organization (WHO) has flagged a critical lack of medicines and diagnostic tools for invasive fungal diseases, highlighting the increasing resistance to the treatment of the common infections, such as candida, which cause vaginal and oral thrush. Patients who are very sick or have compromised immune systems—such as those undergoing chemotherapy for cancer, […]

03
Apr

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Excessive sleepiness in older women linked to higher dementia risk

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

Excessive sleepiness is linked to an increased chance of developing dementia, a study by the University of California has found. The study, published in the journal Neurology, involved monitoring of sleep-wake cycles of 733 women over five years and the changes in their health. None of them initially had dementia or cognitive problems, and their […]

03
Apr

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FACT-CHECK: Viral video claims 10 eggs a day won’t raise cholesterol—Here’s the truth

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Eating 10 eggs daily is good for health as dietary cholesterol does not significantly affect blood cholesterol levels. FACT: Though it is true that dietary cholesterol from eggs has a limited effect on blood cholesterol for most healthy individuals, eating 10 eggs daily exceeds safe limits for many. First Check came across an Instagram […]

02
Apr

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World Autism Awareness Day: 7 common myths about autism busted

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

As the world marks World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, here are some of the still prevalent myths on the condition. Myth 1: Autism can be cured It can’t. This misconception suggests that autistic individuals are ill and need treatment to become normal. In reality, autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental […]

02
Apr

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World Autism Awareness Day: The urgent need for a national plan as India has over 1 crore autistic persons

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
4 min read

With multiple estimates showing that well over one crore people are diagnosed autistic in India, the call for a national policy is gaining even more traction this World Autism Awareness Day, especially in the absence of even a central medical registry that captures the true prevalence of the condition in the country. World Autism Awareness […]

28
Mar

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Obesity Epidemic: Can Mounjaro Be the Game-Changer?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
4 min read

New Delhi – As India grapples with a growing obesity and diabetes epidemic, a new weight-loss drug, Mounjaro (tirzepatide), launched in the country on March 20 is generating buzz for its potential to aid millions. Manufactured by Eli Lilly, an American pharmaceutical company, the drug has shown significant weight loss and blood sugar benefits, leading […]

28
Mar

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FACT CHECK: Can this weird head-pulling trick cure anxiety in adults born via C-Section?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: C-Section babies suffer from anxiety later in life and it can it be cured by clamping and pulling on one’s head FACT: Wrong. The exercise might provide relief similar to a massage, it has no connection to how a person was born First Check received a video on our tipline where a man, @jasonvanblerk […]

28
Mar

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FACT CHECK: Is your daily hot shower impacting your sperm count?

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Bathing with hot water frequently exposes your testicles to heat, which reduces your sperm count. FACT: Indeed! regularly bathing with hot water could result in a reduction in a man’s sperm count, albeit temporarily. Hot showers and baths are part of many people’s daily routines. However, now some claim that this practice could hurt your […]

27
Mar

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India issues urgent health advisory as heatwave looms

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

New Delhi: With summer approaching and temperatures already climbing in parts of India, the Union Health Ministry has issued an urgent directive to state and union territory governments, urging them to implement heat-health action plans. The move comes as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warns of above-normal maximum temperatures across most of the country in […]

27
Mar

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STUDY: Extreme heat makes you age faster

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

Extreme heat may be silently speeding up biological aging in older adults, a new study from the University of Southern California’s Leonard Davis School of Gerontology has warned. The study, led by gerontology experts Eunyoung Choi and Jennifer Ailshire, analyzed data from over 3,600 U.S. adults aged 56 and older. The research team used advanced […]

27
Mar

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Household air pollution affected 2.67 billion people in 2021, killed 3.11 million

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

Household air pollution (HAP) affects over 2.67 billion people worldwide and contributes to millions of deaths, according to a new study published in The Lancet as part of the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 project. Although the percentage of people exposed to HAP has fallen by 56.7% since 1990, the absolute decline has been […]

26
Mar

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Diabetes, hypertension leading causes of kidney disease in India: Dr Vijay Kher

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
4 min read

Diabetes and hypertension are the leading causes of kidney disease in India, accounting for nearly 60% of cases, says Dr Vijay Kher. a noted nephrologist with over 40 years of experience. However, Dr Kher reassures that diabetic kidney damage typically develops gradually, providing opportunities for intervention. “It usually takes 10 to 15 years for diabetes […]

25
Mar

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FACT CHECK: Do men really lose fat faster than women? Here’s what science says

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Men lose fat faster than women FACT: True. This is due to men’s higher muscle mass, metabolism, and hormonal differences compared to women First Check came across an Instagram reel claiming that men lose fat faster than women. The video contends that men burn fat up to 12 hours after exercise, whereas […]

25
Mar

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WHO partnering with Thailand, Sri Lanka on new tool to counter infodemics

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
2 min read

New Delhi: The World Health Organization (WHO) has initiated a collaboration with the Ministries of Health in Thailand and Sri Lanka to pilot a new tool to counter infodemics—the rapid spread of misinformation and disinformation that hinders access to credible health information. Named the ‘Information Environment Assessment’ (IEA), this tool is currently under trial in […]

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