firstcheck - Page 8 of 13

18
Feb

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Global pandemic pact talks in final stretch, WHO chief says, ‘now or never’

First Check Team / 1 year
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3 min read

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has warned that time is running out to finalize a global pandemic agreement, urging world leaders to act decisively. Addressing the Thirteenth Intergovernmental Negotiating Body meeting on Monday, he called it a “now or never” moment, emphasizing the urgent need to prepare for future pandemics. The high-stakes negotiations, set […]

17
Feb

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FACT CHECK: Does consuming fish and milk together cause vitiligo?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
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3 min read

CLAIM: Consuming fish and milk together or one after other can lead to vitiligo. FACT: This is a myth; there is no scientific evidence supporting this idea, as vitiligo is primarily caused by autoimmune factors, not dietary combinations. ‘Don’t have milk and fish together!’ This is a common warning that many of our elders have […]

17
Feb

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FACT CHECK: Industrialist’s viral tweet challenges popular weight loss remedy, experts weigh in

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
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4 min read

Indian industrialist Harsh Goenka has sparked debate over a widely touted weight loss remedy, once again drawing attention to the scientific validity of drinking lemon juice and honey for weight management — a practice that has gained significant traction on social media platforms. “I was told that if you drink lemon juice with honey every morning for […]

17
Feb

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FACT CHECK: Is it safe to dress in just a T-shirt as Rahul Gandhi does during the winters?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
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4 min read

Since his Bharat Jodo Yatra a couple of years back, Rahul Gandhi’s choice of ‘winter clothes’ has been a matter of great discussion. This year too, we saw the Indian National Congress leader all over our Television screens and on social media in just a white T-shirt during the Delhi election campaign and parliament sessions […]

16
Feb

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A heart for humanity: in conversation with Padma Bhushan Dr Jose Chacko Periappuram

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
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6 min read

On January 25, 2025, a day before the country celebrated Republic Day, Dr Jose Chacko Periappuram, one of India’s pioneering cardiac surgeons, received a phone call from a Secretary in the Home Ministry. It was a phone call that he probably would not forget any time soon—he had won the Padma Bhushan for ‘revolutionising surgical […]

15
Feb

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FACT CHECK: Is beer good for bone health, as claimed by PETA? Experts say no

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
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4 min read

CLAIM: Drinking beer is good for bone health, and can prevent osteoporosis. FACT: Medical experts have criticized the PETA advertisement calling it a dangerous misrepresentation of scientific research that could mislead consumers. In fact, alcohol consumption is a risk factor for osteoporosis. Medical experts are strongly criticizing a PETA advertisement that claims beer consumption […]

15
Feb

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The perils of online remedies: Did a viral weight-loss cure cost a UP leader his life?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
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5 min read

Last week, multiple media organisations reported on the death of a local Samajwadi Party leader in Uttar Pradesh’s Baghpat district, claiming that the leader passed away after he took a weight-loss drug he ordered online—highlighting the real-world consequences of health-related misinformation found online. According to regional and national media reports, Furkan Pahalwan, the 35-year-old local […]

14
Feb

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Making space for patients: the urgency of listening in healthcare

First Check Team / 1 year
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3 min read

In health-care services, spaces should be allocated for private conversations and listening can be incentivised with more time for consultations and patient feedback on whether they felt heard, argues a researcher in her latest article in the Lancet. Laying stress on listening to patients, the author argues that primary care should be allowed to more […]

13
Feb

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Impact of US President Donald Trump’s health policy reversals

First Check Team / 1 year
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6 min read

US President Donald Trump has been in office just a over two weeks now, and he has already passed multiple executive orders and made announcements that would have profound impact on global and domestic health policies, healthcare institutions and humanitarian aid organisations. Many of these roll back key health care and global health policies established during the […]

13
Feb

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FACT CHECK: Should people reduce 10% of their oil intake as suggested by PM Modi?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
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4 min read

CLAIM: Cut down oil intake by 10 percent to improve health. FACT: True, doctors First Check spoke to agreed with the suggestion, and stated to us that if adopted this would help improve the health of people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his inaugural speech for the 38th National Games in Dehradun, Uttarakhand advised people […]

13
Feb

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Even light alcohol consumption increases cancer risk

First Check Team / 1 year
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5 min read

You might ask, what is the relationship between alcohol consumption and cancer? The truth is, even one drink a day can increase the risk, and the US Surgeon General has issued an advisory highlighting this link between cancer and alcohol consumption. Data on alcohol and health in humans show a strong link between alcohol consumption […]

13
Feb

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Dual burden of malnutrition and obesity: India faces $440 billion economic threat by 2060

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
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4 min read

There is a silent ‘pandemic’ that is taking over the world, including India, and costing lives—obesity. World Obesity Atlas report from the World Obesity Federation, predicted that 51% of the global population will be living with overweight or obesity by 2035 if current lifestyle trends continue. In recent years, developing countries are experiencing a more dramatic rise in the […]

12
Feb

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Karishma Mehta, founder of ‘Humans of Bombay’, freezes her eggs. Is it the right choice for you?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
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6 min read

At the beginning of February, Karishma Mehta, the Founder and CEO of the popular Humans of Bombay Instagram page, shared that she chose to freeze her eggs the previous month. She shared the news in a post on Instagram where she shared the important events in her life in the first month of 2025, sparking a conversation about […]

12
Feb

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FACT CHECK: Can inserting fingers into the mouth treat tonsillitis without medical care?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
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3 min read

CLAIM: Inserting fingers into the mouth can treat tonsillitis. FACT: This practice is unsafe and can introduce new infections; proper medical treatment is necessary First Check came across a viral video on Facebook in which a man claims to cure tonsillitis by inserting fingers into mouth. “I treat tonsils and jaundice free of cost here,” […]

11
Feb

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FACT CHECK: Does winter raise BP and heart attack risk for the elderly?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
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4 min read

First Check received a WhatsApp tipline request from a reader regarding a video circulating on WhatsApp. In the video, a person claims that winter causes a rise in blood pressure and urges elderly not to get out of the bed before 8 AM lest it lead to paralysis or heart attack. “We see more cases […]

11
Feb

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Pakistan, Afghanistan a ‘perfect storm’ for polio spread: WHO

First Check Team / 1 year
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2 min read

The WHO has sounded the alarm over a sharp rise in wild poliovirus (WPV1) cases in Pakistan and Afghanistan, the world’s last endemic reservoirs, warning that geopolitical, infrastructural, and security challenges are fueling its spread. With cases surging by 283% in Afghanistan and 550% in Pakistan compared to 2023, the WHO has launched emergency measures […]

10
Feb

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FACT CHECK: Is paracetamol really the world’s most dangerous medicine?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
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3 min read

CLAIM: Paracetamol is the most harmful medicine in the world and should be avoided FACT: Paracetamol is safe when used as directed by medical professionals; risks arise only from overdose or misuse A podcast shared by @vatsalasingh in a tweet on December 3, 2024 describes paracetamol as the world’s most harmful medicine. The account has […]

10
Feb

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Fighting Shadows: A Journey of Strength, Struggles and Survival

Kritika Kamthan / 1 year
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4 min read

It was a balmy August afternoon when I found myself in a plush New Delhi hospital, waiting for my biopsy report. The sterile white walls and the faint smell of antiseptic evoked a rush of surreal memories – rushed doctors, hushed whispers, intimidating operation theaters, and an endless cycle of blood tests. I had never […]

08
Feb

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FACT CHECK – Ivermectin for cancer: A promising drug or premature hype?

Pallav Vyas / 1 year
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3 min read

CLAIM: Ivermectin has 15 powerful anti-cancer mechanisms and can effectively treat various types of cancer. FACT: While laboratory research shows promising results, medical experts emphasize that Ivermectin has not undergone clinical trials for cancer, and its use as a treatment remains unproven. A post on the popular social media platform X, formerly Twitter by @bensmithlive […]

07
Feb

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‘Increase negligible, allocation short of policy targets’: Healthcare experts on the Union Budget 2025-26

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
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5 min read

Indian Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, presented the Union Budget 2025-26 on February 1, 2025, which featured a big push for the health sector. The budget allocated Rs 99,858.56 crore for health, which is almost 10 per cent more than what the government had allocated the previous financial year. Adding 75,000 new medical seats over the […]

07
Feb

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Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS): What do we know so far?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
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8 min read

Pune is currently experiencing a surge in Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases, a rare but severe neurological condition affecting the peripheral nervous system. On Sunday, the Maharashtra health department confirmed that the number of GBS cases in Pune surpassed 100, with one suspected death reported in Solapur. The Director General Indian Council of Medical Research Dr […]

06
Feb

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FACT CHECK: Are 80% of high blood pressure patients just experiencing ‘white coat syndrome’?

First Check Team / 1 year
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3 min read

Does a patient’s blood pressure rise when visiting a doctor? A YouTube video claims it does, referring to the condition as White Coat Syndrome. “The more qualified the doctor, the higher the rise; the more prestigious the hospital, the more expensive the treatment,” says Dr Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury, a popular online figure who reportedly has […]

06
Feb

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How AI tool “DeepMerkel” is improving treatment predictions for aggressive skin cancers

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
4 min read

In what is being called a major leap forward for cancer care, researchers have developed an artificial intelligence (AI) system capable of predicting the course and severity of aggressive skin cancers like Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). Named “DeepMerkel”, this AI tool can help doctors tailor treatments to individual patients, ensuring they receive the most effective […]

06
Feb

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World Cancer Day: Recent cancer misinformation trends that swept the internet

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
6 min read

Cancer is among the leading causes of death worldwide, with approximately 1 crore lives lost in 2022. By 2040, annual new cancer cases are projected to increase to 2.9 crore, while cancer-related deaths are expected to reach 1.5 crore. Diseases like cancer need fact based diagnoses and evidence backed therapies and treatment protocols prescribed by […]

04
Feb

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Lung cancer in non-smokers rises amid declining smoking rates: study

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
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3 min read

New Delhi: Despite a global decline in smoking rates, lung cancer cases among non-smokers—particularly women and Southeast Asian populations—are rising, a new study has found. Lung adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer that originates in the glands producing fluids like mucus, has emerged as the most common form of cancer in non-smokers, accounting for over half […]

04
Feb

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FACT CHECK: Does Ivermectin harm reproductive health? What studies actually show

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Ivermectin reduces the ability to conceive and grow babies, causing infertility FACT: Misleading. Ivermectin’s safety during pregnancy remains inconclusive An Instagram channel @simone.gisondi with a following of 275,000 has recently posted a video of a British anti-vaccine activist and an ex-Pfizer scientist Dr Mike Yeadon where he terms Ivermectin, an antiparasitic drug, as “one of the most violent fertility toxins.” “Ivermectin is […]

03
Feb

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USAID is a criminal organization, time for it to die: Elon Musk

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

Tesla CEO and key Trump administration adviser Elon Musk has termed the shutdown of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) as necessary, calling the agency a “criminal organization” that is “beyond repair.” Speaking in a live session on X Spaces, Musk said he had discussed USAID in detail with the president, who agreed that […]

03
Feb

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World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day 2025: Where does India stand in its fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
6 min read

World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) Day is celebrated on January 30 every year and this year the World Health Organization (WHO) urged governments, leaders, communities and individuals to unite, act and eliminate these diseases through “bold, sustainable investments.” Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are a group of 21 infectious diseases that primarily impact over a billion […]

03
Feb

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New Year, New Collaborations!

Mariyam Alavi / 1 year
0
2 min read

Hello! We have some great news for our readers; you can now read selected stories by First Check on THE WEEK as well! THE WEEK, published by the 137-year-old Malayala Manorama group, is India’s bestselling news magazine in English and is known for over 40 years of award-winning journalism. First Check will be providing exclusive […]

03
Feb

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FACT CHECK: Would drinking from plastic bottles make you consume a credit card’s worth of plastic a week?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
4 min read

CLAIM: A viral video suggests drinking from plastic bottles leads to ingesting a credit card’s worth of plastic weekly. FACT: False. While an earlier 2019 study did claim so, more recent research from 2022 shows that the actual microplastic intake is about one millionth of that amount, and comes from various sources, not just plastic […]

01
Feb

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FACT CHECK: Is frequent déjà vu harmless or a red flag for illness?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Repeated and chronic experiences of déjà vu are a sign of neurological or psychological illness, such as temporal lobe epilepsy or psychiatric conditions FACT: True. Déjà vu is harmless in healthy individuals. But if experienced repeatedly along with seizures, it could indicate temporal lobe epilepsy or other neurological disorders A reel posted by @docpriyankasehrawat […]

01
Feb

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AAP’s Health Report Card: Did the government deliver on its earlier poll promises?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
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5 min read

New Delhi: As the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) gears up for a possible fourth term in office, the party released their manifesto for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections on Monday, featuring 15 key “Kejriwal ki guarantee.” The promises or ‘guarantees,’ as the party calls it, ranged from employment for youth to 24/7 clean drinking water […]

31
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Can CT coronary angiogram detect potential heart issues without the need for a traditional angiogram?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
5 min read

CLAIM: CT coronary scans can detect heart blockages quickly, non-invasively, and with precise detail, eliminating the need for traditional angiograms. FACT: This claim is misleading. While CT coronary angiograms (CTCA) are a valuable diagnostic tool, they do not replace traditional angiograms in all scenarios. Both procedures serve distinct purposes and are applied based on the […]

30
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Do pomegranate, watermelon, guava seeds, and Isabgol improve gut health?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
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4 min read

A YouTube short posted by @ReadersBooksClub claims that eating pomegranate, watermelon, and guava seeds improves gut health. “People say don’t eat pomegranate seeds because it is believed that they aren’t digested, but that’s exactly why they’re good. These seeds provide food for gut bacteria, which would otherwise starve,” says the expert in the video. He […]

29
Jan

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Will DeepSeek AI drive a healthcare revolution?

First Check Team / 1 year
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3 min read

The unexpectedly powerful Chinese AI model DeepSeek has shaken up the artificial intelligence industry, with experts online predicting it will profoundly impact even the healthcare sector. According to analysts, DeepSeek’s advanced capabilities could enable smaller hospitals and research groups to run sophisticated models on their own hardware, eliminating the need for large-scale infrastructure. This shift could reshape […]

28
Jan

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‘Donald Trump right on US being top WHO contributor, but wrong on China’s contribution’

First Check Team / 1 year
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8 min read

In one of his first orders after assuming office last week, President Donald Trump withdrew the US from the World Health Organisation (WHO), citing the international body’s mishandling of the Covid-19 pandemic, lack of political independence, and the disproportionate contributions the US makes to the organisation financially. The executive order said, “The United States noticed […]

28
Jan

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Films can promote positive parenting and reduce violence: The Lancet

First Check Team / 1 year
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3 min read

Educational films can help parents reduce child violence and improve parenting, especially in low-income areas, according to a new one-of-a-kind study publsihed in the well regarded journal, The Lancet. “Universal parenting interventions using a film-based entertainment-education approach can effectively reduce physical violence against children and increase positive parenting, with potential for scalability in low-resource settings,” […]

28
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Does Benzoyl Peroxide treat acne?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Benzoyl Peroxide is effective for acne, particularly inflammatory acne. FACT: Benzoyl Peroxide should only be used under a dermatologist’s guidance, as improper use or concentration may cause irritation, burns, or allergic reactions. A video posted on Instagram by skincare and lifestyle influencer @banya_biswas.00 recommends using Benzoyl Peroxide for treatment of acne has drawn drawn.3,000 […]

26
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Is paracetamol the right first-aid for fever?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
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4 min read

In a viral Instagram reel posted by @behind_of_truth.ing, Acharya Manish, an ayurvedic expert and influencer, claims that commonly used fever medications like paracetamol, Dolo, Calpol, and Brufen are harmful. The video, which has garnered about 10 lakh likes and about 3 crore views, features him making statements such as, “If you have fever, never take […]

25
Jan

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India’s uneven caesarean delivery rates: Telangana tops, Nagaland lags

First Check Team / 1 year
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3 min read

While the national average caesarean delivery rate in India is 21.5 per cent, a report published in the peer-reviewed medical journal ‘The Lancet’ shows there are stark disparities based on regions, wealth and sector. Regionally, Nagaland had the lowest rates of caesarean deliveries, 5.2 per cent while Telangana topped the charts with 60.7 per cent. […]

25
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Does cow urine have ‘anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and digestive properties’, as IIT Madras director claimed?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
4 min read

CLAIM: IIT Madras Director V. Kamakoti claims cow urine has medicinal properties including the ability to cure fever in 15 minutes and help with digestive issues like Irritable Bowel Syndrome, citing an anecdote about a monk who used it. FACT: Medical experts, including gastroenterologists who First Check contacted, state there is no scientific evidence or […]

24
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Is Elon Musk right about ketamine as treatment for depression?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Ketamine can help manage symptoms of depression FACT: Ketamine is an anaesthetic with growing evidence supporting its potential for treating Treatment-resistant depression (TRD), but the drug is not yet FDA approved for psychiatric applications. Its off-label use requires medical supervision due to potential risks and side effects. With Tesla CEO and […]

24
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Can alcoholic drinks like wine, beer and rum boost your skin’s health?

First Check Team / 1 year
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Wine, beer, and rum can help your skin by balancing its natural acidity, fighting bacteria, and keeping it youthful by restoring collagen FACT: Studies suggest limited skincare benefits from wine extracts, but alcohol’s overall adverse health effects outweigh these benefits Can your favorite alcoholic drink double as a beauty booster? A […]

23
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Is maida safe to consume in a balanced diet?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
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4 min read

CLAIM: Refined flour (maida) is not unhealthy if consumed with fruits, vegetables, and protein. FACT: Expert opinions and studies agree that maida is nutritionally inferior and linked to health risks like blood sugar spikes, nutrient deficiencies, and increased risk of cardiovascular issues. Small quantities, however, may not cause significant harm, so limiting […]

23
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Should you get a tetanus vaccine after every deep wound, not just rusty ones?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
4 min read

An Instagram reel posted by @dr_richa_tiwari provides guidance on the ideal timing for getting a tetanus shot. The video, which has amassed over 1.7 million views and 45,000 likes, features Dr. Richa Tiwari recounting an incident where she advised tetanus vaccination to a neighbour following a minor injury. “A lady in my neighborhood got pricked […]

22
Jan

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No fact-checking in Facebook and Meta: Time to ring the doom-bell in social media?

Dr Debanjan Banerjee / 1 year
0
5 min read

Mark Zuckerberg’s recent decision to scale back or even shut down the fact-checking operations on Facebook and other Meta platforms is a move that has far-reaching consequences for the integrity of information shared across social media. This decision has ignited a debate over the responsibility that platforms like Facebook hold in curbing the spread […]

21
Jan

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‘Woo! That’s a big one’: Trump as he decides to withdraw US from WHO

First Check Team / 1 year
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4 min read

Days after the World Health Organization (WHO) sought US$ 1.5 billion to provide life-saving health care to millions of people in emergencies across the World, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order to begin the process of withdrawing the US from the WHO, while calling it a “big one.” After returning to the White […]

20
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Does the COVID-19 vaccine contain AIDS causing viruses?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
4 min read

CLAIM: HIV is part of the composition of COVID-19 vaccines FACT: False. An experimental vaccine developed by Professor Keith Chappell, a molecular virologist, in 2020 incorporated a small HIV protein segment but posed no risk of HIV transmission. The vaccine never progressed beyond initial Phase 1 trials and was never distributed publicly. Reports about […]

20
Jan

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Indoor air pollution: How slum dwellers breathe air more toxic than others

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
9 min read

Noida, Uttar Pradesh: Thirty-two-year-old Besaniya works as a domestic worker in Noida, and lives in a slum called Chaura Basti near the Delhi-Noida border with her two kids. Her husband Ram Deen, who worked as a daily-wage labourer, has been sick with respiratory issues for the past few years. People in her neighbourhood jhuggis also […]

18
Jan

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‘Meta’s decision to stop fact-checking will fuel more health-related misinformation’

Dr Sabba Mehmood / 1 year
0
4 min read

Mark Zuckerberg recently announced that instead of relying on fact-checkers, Meta’s social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, will leave it to people to fact-check information on their own. While fact-checkers around the world have raised alarms about the move, as a physician, I am afraid that public health may be one of the […]

18
Jan

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FACT-CHECK: Is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy the leading cause of sudden deaths in young gym-goers?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the leading cause of sudden deaths among young gym-goers during exercise FACT: Further studies are required to determine the true incidence of HCM-related sudden cardiac deaths and its risk factors, with no comprehensive data on HCM prevalence in India An Instagram reel posted by @dr.arshad01 attributes the sudden death […]

17
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Vidya Balan claims inflammation caused her weight gain—is it true?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
4 min read

A viral reel by @GalattaIndiaOffl shows the renowned Bollywood actress Vidya Balan candidly sharing her lifelong struggle with weight loss and the distinction between body fat and inflammation. “All my life, I have struggled to be thin. All my life, I have dieted like crazy, I have exercised like crazy, sometimes I would lose […]

17
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Should Keralites give up milk?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
4 min read

CLAIM: A majority of Keralites are lactose intolerant, while 70% of West and North Indians can easily digest milk. FACT: Studies show that while Indians in general are lactose intolerant, more South Indians were prone to the condition than those from Northern parts of the country. A popular reel on Instagram claims that a majority […]

16
Jan

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Deaths in J&K’s Rajouri linked to toxins, not communicable disease: Govt

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

The Jammu and Kashmir government today announced that the recent deaths in Rajouri are not linked to any communicable disease- bacterial or viral. Instead, toxins detected in the biological samples taken are believed to be the cause of the 14 unexplained deaths in the district. “Clinical reports, lab investigations, and environmental samples indicate that the […]

15
Jan

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Mysterious disease claims 14 lives in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri, minister reports inconclusive tests

First Check Team / 1 year
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2 min read

The Jammu and Kashmir government on Tuesday described recent deaths in the Rajouri district as “mysterious,” saying that investigations are ongoing and no definitive conclusions have been reached. Health Minister Sakina Masood Itoo said that the deaths began in December 2024 but subsided by the first week of January. During a function in Badhaal village […]

14
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Should you chew disprin, clopidogrel and atorvastatin tablets in case of a heart attack?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Disprin, clopidogrel and atorvastatin tablets should be chewed in case of a heart attack FACT: This claim lacks context and can be misleading for some viewers. First Check reviewed an Instagram reel posted by @healthwithreels which talks about first aid that should be given to people if they suffer a heart attack. The video, […]

14
Jan

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Treat stillbirths as lives lost, not just as births without life: Lancet to India

First Check Team / 1 year
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3 min read

The Lancet has called on India to recognize stillbirth as a loss of life rather than merely a baby born without life, emphasizing that improved stillbirth data can transform healthcare outcomes, reduce disparities, shape effective policies, and combat the social stigma surrounding stillbirth. “By harnessing accurate and comprehensive data, India can take significant strides toward […]

13
Jan

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Fact-Check: The truth about ginger’s health benefits and cancer risk

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Ginger is a powerful metabolism booster that helps reduce cancer risk, supports immunity, and aids digestion FACT: Ginger provides health benefits supported by research, but terming it as the top metabolism booster or claiming it prevents cancer oversimplifies its impact A thread on X, posted by Harry Psaros (@PittGuru), has highlighted the potential […]

13
Jan

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Women in Indian cancer research are underrepresented: Lancet report

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

The field of oncology in India faces a stark gender imbalance, with a Lancet report highlighting that only one of the four major oncology societies has ever had a woman president, underlining male dominance in leadership. Similarly, in authorship roles, only 26% of 558 publications in two of the leading oncology journals of the […]

11
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Do underarm puffs indicate toxin buildup in the body?

Allen Joe Mathew / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Puffy underarms signify toxin buildup in the body FACT: There is no scientific evidence that underarm “puffs” indicate toxin buildup. Variations in armpit appearance are normal and related to factors like body composition and anatomy An Instagram reel from the channel @excelled.health uploaded on 23 December, 2024, asserts that a puffy underarm, rather than […]

10
Jan

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WHO 2024 report: Immunization saves 154 million lives, Noncommunicable Diseases surge

First Check Team / 1 year
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3 min read

Geneva, Switzerland – In 2024, the WHO celebrated significant immunization achievements, saving 154 million lives, but warned that noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes remain a growing global challenge. “Today immunization is the single greatest contribution of any health intervention to ensuring that babies not only see their first birthdays but also […]

10
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Can a posture corrector improve your posture

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
3 min read

CLAIM: Using a posture corrector can improve your posture FACT: Posture correctors may improve posture in the short term, but exercise is a more effective long-term solution A YouTube reel posted by @manmidadhich3759 claims that using a posture corrector can “transform your posture and boost your confidence,” describing it as “perfect whether you are […]

09
Jan

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STUDY: China’s hearing loss cases set to reach 623 million by 2060

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

The number of people with hearing loss in China is projected to rise by 34.72%, from 462.88 million in 2015 to 623.60 million by 2060, driven by aging and socioeconomic factors. “The number with moderate-to-complete hearing loss will increase by 110.04%, from 115.14 million in 2015 to 241.84 million in 2060,” says a latest […]

09
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Can cancer be treated without chemotherapy

First Check Team / 1 year
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Cancer can be cured without using chemotherapy FACT: The claim is not supported by scientific evidence An Instagram reel posted by @chikitsaguru and @healthknowledgeindia with over 2.7 lakh views features a conversation with an alleged former cancer patient advocating alternative treatments. The interviewer asks the woman how she managed to overcome the disease […]

08
Jan

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WHO monitors China’s rising respiratory illnesses, including HMPV, finds no unusual outbreaks

First Check Team / 1 year
0
3 min read

The World Health Organization (WHO) has said it is in contact with Chinese health officials and has not received reports of any unusual outbreak patterns, even as data from China shows a rise in acute respiratory infections, including human metapneumovirus (hMPV), in northern provinces in recent weeks. In its report, WHO has advised member states […]

08
Jan

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Debunking the HMPV panic: Expert explains risks, symptoms, and precautions

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
8 min read

India has been reeling with shock, concern and panic, as seven cases of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) among children have been reported in the country in the past two days. Experts and government officials and ministers have been quick to assuage concerns, urging people to stay calm, elaborating that this was not a “new” virus, […]

07
Jan

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Stay calm, no need to panic: Experts urge as HMPV cases trigger concerns in India

First Check Team / 1 year
0
5 min read

Experts, officials and ministers have urged people to remain calm, and not panic, as reports of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) confirmed cases in India triggered widespread concerns and questions about whether this was the start of another pandemic, reminiscent of COVID times. On January 6, panic gripped India after the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) […]

06
Jan

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FACT CHECK: Does walking on grass enhance your sixth sense?

Sneha Richhariya / 1 year
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Walking barefoot on grass boosts your sixth sense FACT: This claim is FALSE and lacks context. While walking barefoot may help energy levels and reduce fatigue, it does not enhance any “sixth sense.” The body’s response is physiological rather than extrasensory An Instagram reel posted by a verified account with over 600,000 followers, […]

06
Jan

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Two Bengaluru infants test HMPV positive, health ministry assures preparedness

First Check Team / 1 year
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 / 1 year
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 / 1 year
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 / 1 year
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 / 1 year
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 / 1 year
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 / 1 year
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 / 1 year
0
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 / 1 year
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 / 1 year
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 / 1 year
0
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 / 1 year
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 / 1 year
0
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 / 1 year
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 / 1 year
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 / 1 year
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 / 1 year
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 / 1 year
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 / 1 year
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 / 1 year
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 / 2 years
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 / 2 years
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 / 2 years
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 / 2 years
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 / 2 years
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 / 2 years
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 / 2 years
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 / 2 years
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 / 2 years
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 / 2 years
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 / 2 years
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 / 2 years
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 […]

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