Stories - First Check

17
Sep

Think vaccines are only for children? Here’s what adults may need

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 hours
0
5 min read

Vaccination is often associated with childhood, but protection against infections remains important throughout adulthood. As people grow older, immunity against some infections may decrease, while the risk of complications from certain diseases can increase. Adults may also face new risks because of their occupation, travel, lifestyle or underlying health conditions. For a healthy adult in […]

17
Sep

Centre tightens rules on stem cell therapy, restricts use to approved conditions

Arijit Gupta / 12 hours
0
3 min read

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has directed states and Union Territories to strictly regulate stem cell therapy, making clear that the treatment can be offered as routine clinical care only for diseases and conditions approved by the government. The advisory, issued on September 17, follows a January 30, 2026, Supreme Court judgment […]

16
Sep

India may have recorded nearly 566,000 stillbirths in 2023, study estimates

First Check Team / 1 day
0
4 min read

India may have recorded an estimated 565,900 stillbirths in 2023 among pregnancies of 22 weeks’ gestation or longer, according to a new analysis published in The Lancet Regional Health – Southeast Asia. The estimate is substantially higher than the 347,300 stillbirths estimated when only fetal deaths at 28 weeks or later are counted, the threshold […]

16
Sep

Flu, COVID and RSV vaccines cut risk of hospitalisation, new review finds

Arijit Gupta / 2 days
0
4 min read

A new research has found that flu, COVID-19 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccines continue to give strong protection against hospital admission and death, especially among older adults, infants and pregnant women. The review was carried out by the Vaccine Integrity Project, which is based at the University of Minnesota’s Center for Infectious Disease Research […]

15
Sep

Very hot tea and coffee linked to 3-fold higher risk of oesophageal cancer: Oxford study

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 days
0
9 min read

Before you grab your favourite hot tea or coffee, think about how hot you are drinking it. A new University of Oxford study involving nearly 1 million UK adults found that people who preferred their tea or coffee very hot had about three times the risk of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) compared with those […]

15
Sep

Does one Diet Coke a day really triple your dementia risk?

Arijit Gupta / 3 days
0
5 min read

CLAIM: An Instagram post claims drinking one Diet Coke daily makes people nearly 3x more likely to develop dementia, citing a 2017 study. It notes possible links via gut bacteria, insulin response, and eating habits, while acknowledging the studies show association, not proof of direct causation, and that other lifestyle factors may contribute. FACTS: Scientific […]

14
Sep

444 million and counting: Why India’s second-hand smoke problem is really two problems

Arijit Gupta / 3 days
0
8 min read

For millions of Indians, especially women in rural households, the smoke damaging their lungs may not come from just one source. It may come from a cigarette or bidi smoked by someone else in the home. It may also come from the wood, dung or crop waste used for cooking. And in some households, both […]

14
Sep

Colon cancer deaths are rising in younger adults in the US: What does this mean for India

Arijit Gupta / 4 days
0
6 min read

Colorectal cancer has overtaken every other cancer as the leading cause of cancer death among Americans under the age of 50, according to a major new report released by the American Cancer Society. The report, published in March 2026 in the journal CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, paints a troubling picture of a disease […]

11
Sep

Does this turmeric and ginger drink really kill parasites?

Arijit Gupta / 6 days
0
4 min read

CLAIM: An Instagram reel claims that a morning drink made of warm water, turmeric, black pepper, cayenne, lemon juice, and grated ginger, taken daily on an empty stomach, can “detox” the entire body of parasites within seven days by giving the gut a complete reset. FACT: Recent research shows ginger and turmeric can shift the […]

11
Sep

Baby crying for hours every evening? It may not be what you think

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 days
0
9 min read

CLAIM: A baby’s prolonged crying, particularly in the evening, may not always indicate acid reflux or cow’s milk protein intolerance. It may instead be part of the normal “witching hour”, a period of increased fussiness and crying commonly seen during early infancy. FACT: True. Prolonged or evening crying can be a normal part of early […]

10
Sep

Pankaj Tripathi spends 30 minutes eating every meal: Is there a health benefit?

Arijit Gupta / 1 week
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Actor Pankaj Tripathi, in an FSSAI “Eat Right India” video, says he now takes 30 minutes to eat, focusing solely on food, savouring each bite mindfully, and treating meals with gratitude and reverence, like worship. He claimed that slow, distraction-free, mindful eating for a set duration benefits health and digestion. FACT: Research shows that […]

10
Sep

Ordering groceries online? You may not know when they expire

Sakshi Srivastava / 1 week
0
9 min read

With diminishing trust in the food around us, checking labels has become increasingly important. Yet, when shopping online, consumers often cannot see key information such as a product’s Best Before or Use By date before placing an order. A recent LocalCircles survey found that 48% of Indian online grocery shoppers surveyed still could not find […]

09
Sep

Abhayrab rabies vaccine batch flagged over potency concerns: What patients should do

Sakshi Srivastava / 1 week
0
7 min read

India’s drug regulator has flagged a batch of the widely used rabies vaccine Abhayrab as substandard and potentially spurious after it failed a potency test, according to a government document. The development comes less than two years after concerns were raised about counterfeit Abhayrab doses in India, a country that reports nearly 6,000 rabies deaths […]

09
Sep

Twinkle Khanna says this DIY wash removes pesticides. Does it?

Arijit Gupta / 1 week
0
4 min read

CLAIM: A viral reel by Twinkle Khanna suggests a DIY pesticide wash: mix 1 cup vinegar + 2 cups water + 1 tbsp baking soda, soak 5–10 minutes, scrub, then rinse. FACT: Studies show pesticide residue reduction varies by method, ranging from under 50% to over 90%. Running water and boiling tend to work best, […]

08
Sep

Did WHO really warn that 87% of Indians could develop cancer by 2035?

Kaushiki Goel / 1 week
0
3 min read

Claim: An X user claims that 87% of people in India will develop cancer by 2035 due to consumption of adulterated milk. It claims that 68.7% of milk and milk products sold in India are adulterated. Fact: False. The WHO has clarified that it has not issued any advisory to the Indian government. An […]

08
Sep

National Nutrition Week: India’s child malnutrition gains mask a deeper diet crisis

Arijit Gupta / 1 week
0
7 min read

As India observes National Nutrition Week, the latest government survey shows that child malnutrition remains widespread, even as some indicators have improved over the past five years. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6), released this year and covering 2023-24, found that 29.3% of Indian children under five are stunted, or too short for their age. […]

07
Sep

Is 10,000 steps is a magic number or what actually matters?

Abdullah Al Soad / 1 week
0
6 min read

Between the shopping malls, the office desk and the evening commute, most of us have heard the same magical instruction that hit 10,000 steps or the day doesn’t count. The original 10,000 steps a day goal originated in 1965 as a Japanese marketing gimmick to sell a pedometer called Manpo-kei (which translates to “10,000-steps meter”). […]

07
Sep

FACT CHECK: Does salt under the tongue cure a headache in 5 minutes?

Arijit Gupta / 2 weeks
0
5 min read

CLAIM: An Instagram post claims that placing a pinch of sea salt under the tongue, then drinking water, cures headaches in 5 minutes, claiming sodium restores electrolyte balance, reduces brain blood vessel swelling, and stops migraine pain signals. It also links dehydration/electrolyte loss to headaches generally. FACTS: There is no evidence that salt under the […]

03
Sep

FACT CHECK: Is consuming papaya unsafe during pregnancy?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 weeks
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Ripe papaya is safe during pregnancy, while raw or unripe papaya should be avoided because it contains latex. FACT: It is too broad to say that papaya is unsafe during pregnancy. The concern mainly relates to raw or unripe papaya, which contains higher amounts of latex that has been shown to stimulate uterine contractions […]

03
Sep

FACT CHECK: Can a cinnamon, lemon and honey drink fix your blood sugar and energy levels?

Arijit Gupta / 2 weeks
0
5 min read

CLAIM: An Instagram reel claims that a morning drink of cinnamon, lemon juice, and raw honey mixed in water can lower blood sugar, restore energy, and help “your clothes fit better.” FACT: Studies show cinnamon may modestly affect insulin and glucose responses under controlled dosages, not through water infused with a teaspoon of it. Experts […]

03
Sep

Severe anaemia in pregnancy more than triples stillbirth risk, finds study of 2 lakh Indian women

Arijit Gupta / 2 weeks
0
9 min read

A large study of over 2 lakh pregnant women across India has found a strong link between anaemia and stillbirth risk, with severe anaemia carrying the greatest danger. The study was published in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia by researchers from the University of Oxford, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and the […]

02
Sep

Trust in the age of AI: Healthify’s Tushar Vashisht on data, safety and the future of digital health

Arijit Gupta / 2 weeks
0
5 min read

“Trust is not given by default. Trust is something that is earned, and there is no difference when it comes to AI,” said Tushar Vashisht, Co-founder and CEO of Healthify, formerly HealthifyMe, in a conversation with First Check LIVE. during the second dialogue in the Health and Trust in the Age of AI series, titled […]

02
Sep

‘The gut works tirelessly. Let’s give it the respect that is due to it’: Dr Anupam Sibal

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 weeks
0
7 min read

From intermittent fasting and probiotics to “gut detoxes” and so-called superfoods, nutrition advice is everywhere. Social media has turned food and gut health into a stream of competing claims – some rooted in science, others driven more by trends than evidence. But with so much advice at our fingertips, a basic question remains: what does […]

02
Sep

FACT CHECK: Does blue tea help with weight loss?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 weeks
0
9 min read

CLAIM: The viral reel claims that blue tea made from butterfly pea flowers can support metabolism, assist with weight management and reduce cravings. It recommends drinking blue tea three times a day along with a healthy diet and exercise to support weight loss. FACT: Current evidence does not show that blue tea directly boosts […]

02
Sep

FACT CHECK: Is avocado toast making you gain weight despite its healthy image?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 weeks
0
9 min read

CLAIM: Eating avocado toast can lead to weight gain because avocado, despite being a healthy source of fats and nutrients, is also high in calories. The reel suggests that large portions of avocado, calorie-dense bread and toppings such as cheese, along with drinks, can significantly increase the meal’s overall calorie content. FACT: Current evidence does […]

01
Sep

FACT CHECK: Do fruits after meals cause gas, bloating, or cramps?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 weeks
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Eating fruits immediately after a meal can cause gas, bloating and stomach cramps. The reel claims that consuming large amounts of fruit, particularly fruits high in fructose or sorbitol, or combining several fermentable foods, can increase digestive discomfort. FACT: Misleading. Eating fruit after a meal does not inherently cause gas, bloating or stomach cramps, […]

01
Sep

10-minute medicine delivery: How safe is it to order prescription drugs from Blinkit and Zepto?

Arijit Gupta / 2 weeks
0
6 min read

Ash, a 22-year-old gender studies student from South Delhi, has been receiving psychiatric treatment and taking medication as part of it. “I have been a long-time consumer of medicines related to my anxiety,” he said. “Although I don’t get the medicines prescribed by my doctor online, sometimes I do order over-the-counter medicines, which I used […]

01
Sep

Can turmeric really erase years of knee pain?

Arijit Gupta / 2 weeks
0
5 min read

CLAIM: An Instagram post by longevity physician Dr Darshan Shah claims warm turmeric paste on knees nightly can break down years of joint inflammation, enabling pain-free movement. It cites “15 randomized trials, 1,670 patients” showing curcuminoids significantly reduce knee pain versus placebo, rivalling anti-inflammatory drugs, calling this “not folklore.” FACT: Turmeric supplements, taken orally, may […]

31
Aug

Does sleeping with your phone near you cause brain cancer or lower sperm count?

Arijit Gupta / 2 weeks
0
6 min read

CLAIM: An Instagram post claims phones emit radio frequency (RF) energy that increases brain cancer/tumour risk and lowers sperm counts, especially when kept near the head or on the bed while sleeping. It advises keeping phones off the bed. FACT: False. Large-scale research has consistently found no link between mobile phone use and brain cancer. […]

31
Aug

Air pollution linked to millions of cancer cases worldwide, study finds

Arijit Gupta / 2 weeks
0
5 min read

A large international study has found that long-term exposure to common air pollutants is linked to millions of cancer cases worldwide each year, with women facing higher risks than men for many types of the disease. The research, published in the journal Nature Health, looked at more than 100 million cancer cases recorded across 952 […]

31
Aug

H1N1 Cases: Why doctors say ‘don’t take antibiotics’ without advice

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 weeks
0
7 min read

India is seeing a rise in seasonal influenza, with H1N1 accounting for much of the increase in influenza A infections. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has urged people to avoid self-medication with antibiotics and antivirals, warning that unnecessary use of medicines during the current flu surge can cause harm and contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). […]

25
Aug

Positive beliefs about ageing linked to better mental and physical health in older adults: study

Arijit Gupta / 3 weeks
0
6 min read

A new study has found that older adults who had more positive beliefs about ageing were more likely to show improvement in their cognitive and physical functioning over time, challenging the widespread assumption that growing old means inevitable decline. The study published in the journal Geriatrics, conducted by researchers at Yale University, tracked about 11.314 […]

24
Aug

Delhi reports rise in H1N1 cases: What to know about symptoms, spread and prevention

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 weeks
0
6 min read

Delhi has reported 1,777 cases of H1N1 influenza so far this year, including 114 new cases recorded on August 20, according to the latest Delhi government data. In all, the national capital has recorded 2,602 seasonal influenza cases in 2026, comprising 2,392 Influenza A cases and 210 Influenza B cases. H1N1 accounts for the largest […]

24
Aug

Chronic Kidney Disease diagnosed too late in India, says Parliament report; nephrologist explains why

Arijit Gupta / 4 weeks
0
7 min read

A parliamentary committee has said that Chronic Kidney Disease has become one of the fastest-growing non-communicable diseases in the country, with a large number of patients diagnosed only after the disease has reached an advanced stage. The Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare, headed by Rajya Sabha member Ram Gopal Yadav, presented […]

21
Aug

FACT CHECK: Can ice cream really protect your heart?

Arijit Gupta / 4 weeks
0
4 min read

CLAIM: An instagram post claims that eating ice cream can be a healthy food. It suggests that moderate consumption of it as part of a balanced diet might even help protect against heart disease. FACT: False. While ice cream contains some nutrients, studies suggest that high consumption can raise the risk of cardiovascular disease. Doctors […]

21
Aug

Why billions are living with undiagnosed brain disease

Arijit Gupta / 4 weeks
0
6 min read

More than 3 billion people worldwide are living with a neurological condition, and fewer than one in three countries has a national policy to deal with the problem, according to the World Health Organisation’s first Global Status Report on Neurology, released in October 2025. The report estimates that in 2021, neurological disorders affected close to […]

21
Aug

FACT CHECK: Two kiwis before bed: Can this fruit really help you sleep faster?

Arijit Gupta / 4 weeks
0
5 min read

CLAIM: An Instagram post claims that eating two kiwis before bed helps people fall asleep nearly 35 minutes earlier. It cites a Taipei Medical University study in which people with sleep problems eat kiwis nightly for four weeks and experience faster sleep onset, longer sleep duration and better sleep quality. FACT: False. Studies link kiwi […]

20
Aug

Bought cosmetics online? 4 in 10 consumers report counterfeit products; 26% report allergic reactions: Survey

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 weeks
0
9 min read

Before you scroll and add your favourite cosmetic to your cart, excited to try a new shade, serum or skincare product, a recent survey is drawing attention to another side of India’s rapidly growing beauty market – counterfeit products and adverse reactions. A new national survey by LocalCircles found that 40% of consumers surveyed who […]

20
Aug

Karnataka plans first dedicated women’s health policy, menopause a key focus

First Check Team / 4 weeks
0
3 min read

Karnataka is planning to introduce a dedicated Women’s Health Policy, with menopause set to be one of its key focus areas, according to reports. The proposed policy aims to improve awareness about menopause, promote early identification of symptoms and make healthcare and counselling more accessible to women during midlife. Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Minister […]

19
Aug

Apollo Hospitals launches 7-Day OPD services, extends doctor consultations to Sundays

Arijit Gupta / 4 weeks
0
3 min read

Apollo Hospitals has announced a new initiative called “Always Open. Always Here.” that will make outpatient services available on all seven days of the week, including Sundays. The private hospital chain said its emergency, critical care and inpatient services have always run round the clock. What changes now is that outpatient consultations, diagnostic tests, preventive […]

19
Aug

Could giving babies eggs earlier cut allergy risk? New study says yes

Arijit Gupta / 4 weeks
0
5 min read

Introducing eggs to babies earlier, rather than delaying them, may help reduce the risk of developing an egg allergy, a new Australian study has found. The study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, found that egg allergy prevalence among infants fell from 9.2% before updated feeding guidelines to 7.6% after recommendations began encouraging earlier introduction of eggs […]

18
Aug

FACT CHECK: Do warm feet really help you fall asleep 15-20 minutes faster?

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
6 min read

CLAIM: A viral Instagram reel claims warming the feet before bed, via socks or a heating pad, helps you fall asleep 15-20 minutes faster by triggering heat loss through dilated blood vessels, which lowers core body temperature. It claims cold feet delay sleep by 25 minutes and shorten deep sleep, citing “Swiss researchers from the […]

18
Aug

Doctors are seeing more patients, but fewer want to quit: survey

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
4 min read

More doctors and nurses are treating a larger number of patients than they were a year ago, yet a smaller share of them are thinking about leaving their jobs, according to a new global survey by Elsevier, a health information company. The report, called Clinician of the Future 2026, surveyed 2,757 doctors and nurses from […]

17
Aug

FACT CHECK: Does mixing fruit with milk curdle it and make it unhealthy?

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
4 min read

CLAIM: A popular podcast claimed that mixing most fruits with milk is unhealthy because fruit acids (like vitamin C) curdle milk, citing apples, oranges, and berries as examples, with an apple milkshake reportedly separating into layers after 30 minutes. It claimed only sweet, buttery fruits like mango and avocado are safe exceptions. FACT: Curdling occurs […]

17
Aug

FACT CHECK: Does hair on toes and knuckles really indicate healthy blood circulation?

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
4 min read

CLAIM: An Instagram post claims toe and knuckle hair is a positive indicator of healthy peripheral circulation and strong heart pumping to extremities. It states consistent blood flow keeps hair follicles active, signaling cardiovascular health and absence of arterial blockage. FACT: Toe or knuckle hair is not a reliable indicator of heart health or peripheral […]

17
Aug

India talks about mental health more than ever: Anisha Padukone says that’s not enough

Sakshi Srivastava / 1 month
0
16 min read

Mental health is more than the absence of mental disorders; it is a state of well-being that enables people to cope with life’s stresses, realise their abilities and participate meaningfully in society. Yet in India, mental health remains a largely neglected dimension of healthcare. Government data suggests that around 15% of adults experience mental health […]

14
Aug

Can rice water really help with heavy periods and UTIs?

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
5 min read

CLAIM: An Instagram reel promotes a rice water drink, mixed with roasted cumin, dried mint, rock salt, lemon juice, and coriander, as an Ayurvedic remedy for “aggravated Pitta dosha.” It claims to help with heavy periods, painful urination, recurrent UTIs, excess body heat, sweaty hands/feet, and perimenopause symptoms, positioning it as a natural, low-cost alternative. […]

14
Aug

FACT CHECK: Do daytime naps really give you a bigger brain?

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
5 min read

CLAIM: A 2023 UK Biobank study published in Sleep Health, involving genetic data from 378,932 adults, found that habitual daytime nappers had a slightly larger total brain volume than non-nappers—equivalent to an estimated 2.6 to 6.5 years of younger brain ageing. However, daytime napping was not significantly associated with memory or reaction time. FACT: Multiple […]

13
Aug

FACT CHECK: Does eating noodles regularly affect your fertility?

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
5 min read

CLAIM: A viral Instagram post claims daily instant noodle consumption can silently harm fertility, citing high sodium, refined carbs, and unhealthy fats alongside low zinc, folate, omega-3s, and antioxidants. It suggests these deficiencies impair sperm/egg development and hormone balance, while a nutrient-rich diet improves fertility outcomes in both men and women. FACT: Animal studies […]

12
Aug

FACT CHECK: Can drinking clove water on an empty stomach really clear skin, boost immunity, and heal your liver?

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
5 min read

CLAIM: A viral Instagram reel recommends drinking clove water (4-6 cloves soaked in filtered water) daily on an empty stomach, claiming benefits for skin, digestion, immunity, joint pain, and liver health. It warns eugenol in cloves can be liver-toxic in excess, limits intake to 1 cup/day, yet calls it “safe” for a 7-day challenge. FACT: […]

12
Aug

Chandipura virus: Why outbreaks keep returning and what doctors know about the disease

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
5 min read

With Gujarat recording 35 laboratory-confirmed cases of Chandipura virus out of 184 suspected patients tested, with 22 deaths among children under 15, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare sent a National Joint Outbreak Response Team (NJORT) to the state on August 5 to strengthen the response to the contagion. The team has also […]

11
Aug

FACT CHECK: Do diet drinks really raise heart disease risk by 20%?

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
4 min read

CLAIM: A viral Instagram post cites a Chinese/UK Biobank study claiming 2+ litress/week of diet drinks raises atrial fibrillation risk by 20%, sugary drinks by 10%, while 1 litre/week of pure juice lowers risk by 8%. FACT: Studies have linked diet drink consumption to health risks beyond weight gain, including heart changes, kidney issues, […]

11
Aug

FACT CHECK: Does creatine really cut depression symptoms in women by 45% in just two weeks?

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
5 min read

CLAIM: An Instagram post cites a 2012 study claiming women on creatine plus antidepressants saw depression symptoms drop 45% in 2 weeks, 65% in 4 weeks, and 80% in 8 weeks, with 52% reaching remission. It also claims women store 70-80% less creatine than men, depleted further by menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. FACT: Creatine, long […]

10
Aug

Nearly 9 in 10 Delhi schools sit near a toxic site, making it the world’s most exposed capital: Report

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
5 min read

Ninety-one per cent of schools in Delhi were located within five kilometres of a documented toxic site, the highest proportion among the ten capital cities studied across the developing world, according to a new working paper from the Center for Global Development (CGD), a Washington and London-based research organisation. The report matched the locations of […]

10
Aug

FACT CHECK: Does chronic mouth breathing reduce oxygen delivery by 18% and age your face?

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
5 min read

CLAIM: An Instagram post claims chronic mouth breathing reduces oxygen delivery by 18%, causing dry mouth, tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. It also links mouth breathing to snoring, sleep apnea, daytime fatigue, cardiovascular problems, and altered jaw/facial development in children, urging early evaluation by dentists or paediatric specialists. FACT: False. Studies indicate […]

07
Aug

WHO’s cancer body classifies blood pressure drug hydrochlorothiazide, voriconazole and tacrolimus as carcinogenic to humans

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
4 min read

Three widely prescribed medicines have been classified as carcinogenic to humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the cancer research branch of the World Health Organization. The drugs are hydrochlorothiazide, a common blood pressure medicine; voriconazole, an antifungal drug; and tacrolimus, which is given to organ transplant patients to prevent rejection. The […]

07
Aug

Food, fasting & gut health: What does the science say?

Dr Sabba Mehmood / 1 month
0
4 min read

Over the years, one topic has surfaced again and again—in conversations with patients, around family dinner tables, at community events, and more recently in my direct messages: food, gut health, and what it really means to eat well. That is hardly surprising. Nutrition science continues to evolve as new evidence emerges. At the same time, […]

07
Aug

Fact Check: Can humans really ‘think through the gut’ as Ravi Kishan claims?

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
5 min read

CLAIM: A viral podcast clip features MP Ravi Kishan claiming the gut, once called the “second brain,” is now the “first brain.” He says people think through the gut, that eating involves a form of “thinking” originating there, and that the phrase “gut feeling” reflects this. The claim is widely shared on social media. FACT: […]

06
Aug

The great Fanta divide: Same drink, different countries, different ingredients?

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
7 min read

CLAIM: A viral video alleges that the Indian version of Fanta contains artificial colours and flavourings instead of real orange juice, has nearly 2.5 times as many calories, and contains about 10 teaspoons of sugar per 300 ml, compared with four teaspoons in the French version, suggesting weaker food regulation in India. FACT: Label checks […]

05
Aug

Adolescent health: Experts call for early intervention to build healthy lifestyles in teens

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
6 min read

India is home to an estimated 253 million adolescents, the largest in the world, making their health and well-being a critical public health priority. Yet, evidence suggests that many young people continue to face preventable health risks while lacking awareness about healthy lifestyles. A 2025 comparative study published in the Journal of Public Health Research […]

05
Aug

“Just like a car, your body needs the right fuel to run well”: Dr Umesh Wadhavani’s guide to healthy habits for adolescents

Sakshi Srivastava / 1 month
0
6 min read

Do you remember when we were children or teenagers and used to think, “When I grow up, I’ll buy all my favourite packets of chips,” or even, “I’ll buy the entire store!” Those were the carefree days of innocence. Fast forward a few years, and many of us find ourselves doing the exact opposite – […]

05
Aug

Gaurav Madaan’s viral India’s Got Latent act sparks debate on why some people can’t gain weight

Sakshi Srivastava / 1 month
0
7 min read

People often discuss ways to lose weight, including counting calories, hitting the gym, increasing protein intake, trying intermittent fasting, or following the latest diet trends. Social media is flooded with weight-loss tips, transformation stories and fitness advice. But there is another side of the conversation that rarely gets the same attention: people who struggle to […]

04
Aug

FACT CHECK: Can wearing copper bracelets on wrists and ankles really cure joint pain and inflammation?

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Wearing copper bracelets or anklets cures joint pain and inflammation by allowing copper to enter the body through the skin. FACT: False. Copper does not enter the bloodstream through healthy skin, and research shows copper bracelets do not relieve joint pain or inflammation better than placebo bracelets. A viral Instagram post claims that […]

04
Aug

FACT CHECK: Can gulping sugarcane juice in one go cause diseases?

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
4 min read

CLAIM: An Instagram reel claims that drinking sugarcane juice slowly acts like medicine, while gulping it or water in a hurried manner can cause diseases. FACT: False. There is no scientific evidence that drinking sugarcane juice slowly makes it act like medicine, or that gulping it causes diseases. The speed of consuming sugarcane juice or […]

04
Aug

After two decades of decline, Karnataka’s HIV numbers are climbing again

Arijit Gupta / 1 month
0
7 min read

HIV prevalence among pregnant women in Karnataka has risen for three consecutive surveillance rounds, reversing a trend that had held for nearly twenty years, according to the state’s own annual report for 2025-26 released by the Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS). The finding is significant because it comes from the HIV Sentinel Surveillance of […]

03
Aug

FACT CHECK: Can consuming sugar lead to dark circles?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Consuming sugar can cause dark circles under the eyes by triggering a process called glycation, which breaks down collagen, thins the skin, and makes it more prone to pigmentation. The reel further suggests that sugar is the one dietary item people should eliminate. FACT: Current scientific evidence does not support the claim that consuming […]

03
Aug

FACT CHECK: Does an apricot help maintain iron levels?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: The post claims that apricots, particularly dried apricots, can help support iron levels and are a useful food for people with anaemia. It suggests that their iron content, along with pairing them with vitamin C-rich foods, can aid iron absorption and contribute to healthy red blood cells, energy production, and oxygen transport. The […]

03
Aug

FACT CHECK: Does a German gel regrow joint cartilage without surgery or implants? Here’s what doctors say

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: A viral Instagram post claims Germany invented a new injectable collagen gel that regrows joint cartilage without surgery, implants, or extended recovery. It says the body’s cells grow into the gel to form healthy cartilage, offering a natural alternative to joint replacement for arthritis, joint pain, and cartilage injuries. FACT: Collagen-based hydrogels for cartilage […]

31
Jul

Hina Khan braves ice bath during cancer recovery, but does the therapy actually work?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
7 min read

Actress Hina Khan is again in the news as she braves an ice bath therapy, offering another glimpse into the routine she has been following under medical supervision. In a video shared on Instagram, Khan is seen immersing herself in a tub of ice-cold water while carefully following breathing instructions from a doctor. She also […]

31
Jul

FACT CHECK: Does PRP hair treatment work for everyone?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: PRP (platelet-rich plasma) combined with microneedling is an advanced treatment that effectively combats hair loss caused by factors such as poor diet, genetics, PCOD, female pattern hair loss, and COVID. The treatment claims to stimulate existing hair follicles, strengthen hair, and promote hair regrowth by delivering growth factors from a person’s own blood into […]

31
Jul

FACT CHECK: Does dark chocolate lower cholesterol levels?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: The viral Instagram post claims that eating 30–40g of 70% or higher dark chocolate daily lowers cortisol levels by 21%, improves insulin sensitivity, enhances post-workout recovery and boosts blood flow through flavonoids. It also suggests that dark chocolate supports hormonal and heart health, and may help improve cholesterol levels when consumed regularly. FACT: Current […]

30
Jul

Why losing the wrong fat can increase your diabetes risk; new study reveals

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
7 min read

Trying to lose weight to stay healthy? Most people think that the less body fat they have, the lower their risk of diabetes. But what if losing the wrong kind of fat could actually harm your metabolism? A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation suggests exactly that. Researchers found that healthy fat […]

30
Jul

Why climbing stairs leaves you breathless—And when it could signal something serious

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
4 min read

Feeling out of breath after climbing a few flights of stairs is common, but it isn’t always just a sign of poor fitness. According to fitness coach Sumit Dubey, breathlessness can have several causes, ranging from lifestyle factors to underlying medical conditions. “Being out of breath when climbing stairs can happen due to multiple reasons. […]

30
Jul

FACT CHECK: Can lack of sleep affect fertility in women?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: The viral Instagram post claims that women who consistently sleep for less than six hours are more likely to experience hormonal imbalances that can disrupt ovulation, menstrual cycles and fertility. It adds that chronic sleep deprivation may reduce the chances of a healthy pregnancy and negatively affect fertility treatment outcomes, while noting that sleep […]

29
Jul

FACT CHECK: Can consuming jamun seeds lower your blood sugar spike?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Consuming powdered jamun seeds can naturally lower blood sugar spikes and help manage diabetes. The reel claims that jamun seeds contain a compound called “jaboline” and are rich in polyphenols, making them beneficial for people with diabetes. It suggests drying the seeds and grinding them into a powder for consumption. FACT: Jamun seeds contain […]

29
Jul

Fact Check: Does a half-baked sweet potato really provide 400% of your daily vitamin A?

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
4 min read

CLAIM: A viral Instagram post claims that eating a half-baked sweet potato provides 400% of your daily vitamin A, due to its high beta-carotene content, which it says supports healthy skin and eyes FACT: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body turns into vitamin A. Experts say one sweet potato can […]

29
Jul

FACT CHECK: Does the way you draw the number “8” reveal how you make decisions in life?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: The way a person draws the number “8” reflects their decision-making style and personality. According to the viral reel, each of the four common ways of writing the digit reveals specific traits, such as whether a person is cautious, decisive, controlling, or intuitive when solving problems and making decisions. FACT: False. There is no […]

28
Jul

Why IVF isn’t always the first step in infertility treatment

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
5 min read

Infertility affects an estimated one in six people globally during their reproductive years. In men, infertility is commonly linked to problems with sperm production, movement or ejaculation, while in women it may result from disorders affecting the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes or the endocrine system, according to the World Health Organization. In India, too, infertility […]

28
Jul

Hepatitis B vaccination is up in India, So why are deaths still rising?

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
4 min read

India has significantly expanded hepatitis B vaccination among newborns between 2023 and 2024, with nearly eight in ten babies now receiving the crucial birth-dose vaccine. Yet the country continues to be one of the world’s biggest contributors to hepatitis B deaths because millions of people living with chronic infection remain undiagnosed and untreated, according to […]

27
Jul

FACT CHECK: Can sleeping with wet hair make you catch a cold?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Sleeping with wet hair does not cause a cold because colds are caused by viruses, not by wet hair. However, going to bed with wet hair may leave the scalp damp for hours, which could contribute to discomfort, hair breakage or worsen certain scalp conditions in some people. FACT: Available scientific evidence does not […]

27
Jul

Fatty liver in kids is rising: Why doctors say it is becoming a major health concern

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
5 min read

Fatty liver disease, now known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), has long been associated with adults, particularly those living with obesity, type 2 diabetes and other metabolic conditions. However, doctors are increasingly reporting that the condition is also being diagnosed in children, especially those who are overweight or obese, raising concerns about its […]

27
Jul

FACT CHECK: Can coconut oil really reverse gum disease?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: The post claims that recent research shows coconut oil can remove harmful oral bacteria, reduce gum inflammation, and even reverse gum disease. It suggests that oil pulling with coconut oil supports oral health by improving the oral microbiome and can serve as an effective natural therapy for periodontal disease. FACT: Current evidence suggests that […]

27
Jul

FACT CHECK: Are 2-minute noodles and soft drinks as dangerous as viral posts claim?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
14 min read

CLAIM: A viral YouTube Shorts video claims that 2-minute noodles are coated with synthetic wax and contain TBHQ, which allegedly sticks to the intestines and causes constipation and ulcers. It further claims that a glass of cola contains about 10 spoons of sugar and that phosphoric acid removes calcium from the teeth and bones through […]

24
Jul

One in seven Indian couples faces infertility. Is India ready to respond?

Anjali Ajaikumar / 2 months
0
5 min read

The journey towards parenthood is often filled with uncertainties. Over the last few years, the number of fertility issues faced among men and women has drastically increased. With 10-15% of couples in India (around 30 million) affected by infertility; it is imperative to provide timely and compassionate fertility services. World IVF Day serves as a […]

24
Jul

Can museums, concerts and theatres help you age better? New study explores the link

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
9 min read

There was a time when spending an evening at a concert, watching a play or wandering through a museum sounded exciting. Now, after a hectic week, staying in bed with your comforter often wins over stepping outside. But what if those occasional cultural outings were doing more for your health than you realised? A new […]

24
Jul

FACT CHECK: Does drinking 3 litres of water really ‘flush out’ alcohol?

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: A viral Instagram reel claims that drinking 3 litres of water the day after alcohol consumption helps “flush alcohol” from the body, that antioxidant-rich foods (berries, amla, leafy greens) reduce alcohol-related oxidative stress, and that garlic, turmeric, and fatty fish boost liver enzymes to break down acetaldehyde faster, effectively “detoxing” the body. FACT: […]

23
Jul

Meditation calms the brain in just 3 minutes: Harvard study

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
4 min read

Within just two to three minutes of starting meditation, the human brain shows measurable signs of calm, with the effect peaking between the seventh and tenth minute—even among people who had never meditated before, according to a new study published in the journal Mindfulness in March 2026. Participants in the study wore a cap fitted with 128 […]

23
Jul

Nearly 9 in 10 Indian adults have unhealthy cholesterol levels, finds national study

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
4 min read

Almost nine out of every ten adults in India have some form of unhealthy fat or cholesterol level in their blood, with the condition, known medically as dyslipidemia, being more common in cities than in villages and more common among women than men. The findings come from the ICMR-INDIAB study, one of the largest health […]

23
Jul

One in eight women globally affected by PMOS; Lancet study explains the reason for the name change

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
8 min read

Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting women during their reproductive years. Until recently known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the condition has been officially renamed to better reflect its endocrine, metabolic and ovarian abnormalities, rather than simply the presence of ovarian cysts. Experts say the previous name was misleading because many […]

22
Jul

India among countries overusing powerful antibiotics: Lancet study

First Check Team / 2 months
0
2 min read

India is among the countries using far more powerful antibiotics than clinically necessary, according to a major study published in The Lancet Public Health, which warns that the trend is accelerating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and reducing the effectiveness of life-saving medicines. The study analysed antibiotic needs across 186 countries using disease burden, antibiotic resistance, demographics […]

22
Jul

Pain during sex is not normal: What women need to know about vaginismus

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
5 min read

Dear girls, remember those moments when we spiral into late-night Google searches or endless Reddit threads trying to figure out why intercourse hurts, why inserting a tampon feels impossible, or why our body suddenly feels like it is “pushing everything away”? And most of the time, instead of answers, what follows is panic, shame, and […]

21
Jul

WHO’s alarming cancer warning: 1 in 5 people will get the disease

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
6 min read

One in five people worldwide will develop cancer in their lifetime, and nearly everyone will feel its impact through a loved one, the WHO’s 2026 global cancer report warns. With 20.6 million diagnoses in 2024 and cases projected to hit 35 million by 2050, survival still hinges starkly on wealth, ranging from over 85% in […]

21
Jul

Safdarjung Doctor’s Association seeks President’s intervention over Sonam Wangchuk’s hospitalisation

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
5 min read

The Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) of Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital has written to President Droupadi Murmu seeking an “independent, impartial, and time-bound inquiry” into the circumstances surrounding the continued hospitalisation of activist Sonam Wangchuk, the security arrangements at Safdarjung Hospital, and the alleged use of force against protesters at Jantar Mantar. In […]

21
Jul

Sonam Wangchuk’s health: What more than 3 weeks of fasting can do to the body

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
6 min read

As activist Sonam Wangchuk remains under close medical supervision after more than three weeks of fasting, doctors say his condition underscores the profound physiological stress that prolonged fasting can place on the human body. Research shows that going without food for extended periods can trigger major changes in metabolism, hormones, inflammation and electrolyte balance, with […]

20
Jul

India approves first dengue vaccine for people aged 4-60

First Check Team / 2 months
0
3 min read

India has approved its first vaccine against dengue, with the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) granting market authorisation to Takeda Biopharmaceuticals India’s QDENGA (TAK-003). The vaccine is approved for the prevention of dengue in individuals aged 4 to 60 years, making it the first dengue vaccine to receive regulatory approval in the country. QDENGA […]

20
Jul

Can too much screen time leave you mentally drained?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
5 min read

From work meetings and online classes to social media and late-night scrolling, digital screens have become an unavoidable part of everyday life. While prolonged screen use is often blamed for poor concentration and mental exhaustion, researchers are increasingly examining whether excessive digital screen time may also contribute to symptoms commonly described as “brain fog” – […]

20
Jul

Climate change is costing India sleep, southern cities worst hit: study

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
5 min read

Southern India is among the hardest-hit regions in the world when it comes to sleep loss from hot nights, according to a new report by Climate Central, a US-based nonprofit of scientists and communicators. “Climate change-linked sleep losses were also high in other already-hot places: people in southern India and several countries in Southeast Asia […]

17
Jul

Cyclospora outbreak linked to Taco Bell lettuce sickens over 1,600 across five US states

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
6 min read

A Cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants has sickened more than 1,600 people and hospitalised 94 across Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia, prompting an investigation by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). No deaths have been reported, and no recall had been issued as […]

17
Jul

The workout supplement found in millions of homes may hold clues for future cancer treatments

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
5 min read

A supplement best known for helping athletes build strength may also help the immune system fight cancer, according to a new study. Researchers found that creatine, a naturally occurring compound widely used as a fitness supplement, can strengthen key immune cells that detect tumours and activate the body’s cancer-fighting response. The findings suggest creatine could […]

16
Jul

From diabetes pills to heart drugs: Govt fixes prices of 39 medicines

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
4 min read

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has fixed the prices of 39 medicines sold across India, revised the price of an anti-rabies injection, exempted a patented pneumococcal vaccine from price control for five years, and approved new brands of intravenous (IV) fluids under existing price orders. The decisions were issued through a series of Gazette […]

16
Jul

Can dengue trigger heart problems? Doctors explain the warning signs

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
4 min read

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV), transmitted primarily through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. Although most infections are mild or even asymptomatic, severe dengue can affect multiple organs, including the liver, kidneys, brain and, in some cases, the heart. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), “about half […]

16
Jul

Paying more for IVF? Most costly add-ons lack proof of success

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
4 min read

One in seven couples worldwide struggle to conceive. For many, in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) becomes the last resort. And where there is desperation, there is an industry ready to supply hope, at a price. But a study has found that most of the extra treatments routinely sold to IVF patients lack proven scientific benefit. The review, led […]

15
Jul

HPV vaccine linked to dramatic fall in cervical cancer deaths in England, Lancet study finds

First Check Team / 2 months
0
5 min read

A national HPV vaccination programme in England has been associated with a dramatic reduction in cervical cancer deaths among young women, with researchers reporting that no cervical cancer deaths occurred among women aged 20–24 years between 2020 and 2024 despite more than 23 deaths being expected based on historical trends. The findings, published in The […]

15
Jul

Our children are growing up online. Are we ready?

Dr Sabba Mehmood / 2 months
0
4 min read

As both a doctor and a mother, I often find myself looking at adolescence through two very different lenses. One comes from years of clinical experience. The other comes from everyday conversations around the dinner table with my own teenager. Those two worlds overlap more than ever. Some of our biggest conversations at home […]

15
Jul

FACT CHECK: Can one mango a day meet your vitamin C needs and boost immunity?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: An Instagram post claims that eating one mango daily provides nearly 100% of the recommended vitamin C intake, supports collagen production, improves skin health, and helps fight the common cold. It also suggests that pairing mango with healthy fats improves nutrient absorption. FACT: True. Studies and medical experts broadly support the nutritional claims about […]

14
Jul

FACT CHECK: Can sleeping with a high pillow setup lead to glaucoma?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Sleeping with a high pillow setup can increase intraocular (eye) pressure and contribute to glaucoma. The post further suggests that using two pillows to elevate the head may reduce blood flow to the eye through jugular vein compression, although it acknowledges that more research is needed. FACT: Current evidence suggests that sleeping position can […]

14
Jul

Leptospirosis: The monsoon disease we often mistake for a common fever

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
6 min read

Monsoon brings a spike in waterborne diseases like dengue and cholera, but leptospirosis, spread through contaminated floodwater, often goes undiagnosed until complications develop. Globally, a person dies of leptospirosis roughly every nine minutes. According to data, an estimated 59,000 deaths occur per year from the disease. It spreads through something as ordinary as walking through a […]

13
Jul

Actor Rajesh Sharma hospitalised after suspected insect bite: Can a bug bite turn life-threatening?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
9 min read

Veteran actor Rajesh Sharma, known for his performances in films including Khosla Ka Ghosla, Ishqiya, Special 26, MS Dhoni: The Untold Story and several others, has been hospitalised after reportedly suffering a suspected insect bite while shooting for Prabhas’ upcoming film at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad. The incident first came to light after actor […]

13
Jul

WHO South-East Asia pushes countries to phase out mercury dental fillings by 2034

First Check Team / 2 months
0
4 min read

The World Health Organization (WHO) South-East Asia Region has stepped up efforts to help countries phase out mercury-containing dental fillings, urging governments to adopt safer and more sustainable alternatives as part of a broader shift towards prevention-focused oral healthcare. Health and environment policymakers and experts from across the region gathered in Bangkok for a two-day […]

11
Jul

Not one method, not one woman: How India can redefine its family planning programme for a new generation

admin / 2 months
0
15 min read

Medha Gandhi Every year, World Population Day arrives with a ritual anxiety about numbers: how many of us there are, how many more are coming, and whether that is good news or bad. This year, theUnited Nations Population Fund has chosen a theme that quietly overturns the usual script. It asks how we might empower […]

10
Jul

PMOS? Experts explain why strength training may be better

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: A viral Instagram reel claims excessive cardio worsens PMOS by raising cortisol levels and increasing insulin resistance, while advocating for strength training as a more effective approach for women managing the condition. FACT: True. Research suggests that exercise, including both cardio and strength training, plays an important role in managing PMOS. Doctors caution that […]

10
Jul

Learning a musical instrument after 70 may help preserve memory

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
10 min read

Didn’t learn a musical instrument? It may not be too late to benefit. A new study suggests that learning an instrument in your seventies may help preserve memory and reduce age-related brain shrinkage. Researchers found that older adults who continued practising a musical instrument over four years maintained their memory better than those who stopped, with […]

09
Jul

FACT CHECK: Can microplastics affect men’s fertility?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: The post claims that microplastics accumulating in the male reproductive system can cause testicular inflammation, lower testosterone levels and reduce sperm count, thereby harming fertility. It further claims that reducing plastic exposure and following a sauna-based “detox” protocol can remove most microplastics from sperm and improve reproductive health. FACT: Studies have detected microplastics in […]

09
Jul

World’s first HIV-to-HIV lung transplant offers new hope for patients awaiting organs

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
4 min read

The world’s first lung transplant between two people living with HIV in New York City on March 21, 2026, is now expected to reshape organ allocation policies for people living with HIV in the United States, where about 1.2 million individuals are estimated to be living with the condition, according to the Centers for Disease Control […]

08
Jul

Born after 1965? Study suggests your body may be ageing faster

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
5 min read

People born in more recent decades showed signs of faster biological ageing than earlier generations, and this faster ageing was linked to a higher risk of certain cancers occurring before the age of 50, according to a new study published in Nature Medicine. The study, conducted by researchers from institutions including Washington University and Harvard, examined data […]

07
Jul

Scientists find the “off switch” that could stop your body from storing fat

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
4 min read

Imagine a switch inside every cell in your body that decides: burn this fat now, or save it for later. Scientists just found it and flipping it off seems to turn cells into fat-burning machines that also lose the ability to make new fat cells in the first place. The discovery comes from researchers at […]

07
Jul

11-year-old Canadian boy dies of rabies after waking to bat on his face: What you need to know about this deadly virus

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
9 min read

Rabies is among the deadliest viral infections known to humans, with an almost 100 per cent fatality rate once symptoms appear. In a tragic incident in Ontario, Canada, an 11-year-old boy died after developing rabies months after he woke up to find a bat resting on his nose and mouth while staying with his family […]

07
Jul

FACT CHECK: Do pumpkin seeds support hair growth?

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: The post claims that eating pumpkin seeds can help strengthen hair roots, support hair growth, and improve scalp health because they contain nutrients such as zinc, iron, magnesium, healthy fats, and vitamin E. It also suggests that including a handful of pumpkin seeds in the daily diet can contribute to overall hair health, although […]

06
Jul

Why your gut needs extra care during monsoon; expert weighs in

Sakshi Srivastava / 2 months
0
5 min read

The arrival of the monsoon offers relief from the scorching summer heat, but it also marks the beginning of a season when digestive complaints become significantly more common. Gastroenterologists often see a rise in patients reporting bloating, acidity, nausea, diarrhoea and stomach cramps during the rainy months. While these symptoms may seem similar, they do […]

06
Jul

Think your brain only declines with age? This study says otherwise

Arijit Gupta / 2 months
0
5 min read

A three-year study tracking adults aged 19 to 94 has found that the brain can continue improving well into old age, challenging one of medicine’s most persistent assumptions. For decades, it was widely accepted that cognitive decline was an inevitable part of ageing. A new study published in Scientific Reports suggests that this assumption may […]

06
Jul

What happens after an ammonia gas leak? Tiruvallur incident highlights hidden risks

Sinchan Saha / 2 months
0
6 min read

The recent ammonia gas leak incident at a seafood processing facility, Peter & Paul Seafood Export Company leak in Tiruvallur, Tamil Nadu, reveals an overlooked medical risk. In the immediate aftermath of an industrial ammonia (NH3) leak, the focus is naturally on treating overt chemical burns and acute breathing distress. However, the more serious effects […]

03
Jul

Are opioids doing more harm than good for acute pain?

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
6 min read

New research suggests that some of the world’s most commonly prescribed painkillers may offer limited benefit over alternatives for several acute pain conditions, while carrying a higher risk of side effects. Opioids are a family of drugs that includes medicines like morphine, codeine, oxycodone, and tramadol. These are among the most commonly prescribed painkillers in […]

02
Jul

FACT CHECK: Can pregnancy glow reveal your baby’s sex?

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: A pregnant woman’s facial appearance can indicate the sex of her baby. According to the belief discussed in the reel, glowing skin suggests a boy, while dull skin or facial pigmentation suggests a girl. It also implies that common skin changes during pregnancy are linked to the baby’s gender. FACT: Available evidence shows that […]

02
Jul

Health information in the age of AI: Can public trust be restored? Experts weigh in

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
7 min read

India’s healthcare system serves over 1.4 billion people through a vast network of public and private providers. While the country has made significant strides in improving healthcare delivery, persistent challenges remain, including inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of healthcare professionals, urban-rural disparities, limited health insurance coverage, and a growing burden of non-communicable diseases. Bridging these gaps […]

02
Jul

FACT CHECK: Does consuming moringa help regrow hair?

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
6 min read

… CLAIM: A viral post claims that consuming moringa regularly can help regrow hair within 12 weeks. It suggests that the plant’s iron, zinc, vitamins, and antioxidants nourish hair from within, support stronger roots, reduce hair fall, improve hair thickness, and promote healthier scalp circulation, especially when hair problems are linked to nutritional deficiencies. Although […]

01
Jul

‘We need to teach people to separate signal from noise’: Dr Siddharth Warrier

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
6 min read

Chances are, before opening this article, you were scrolling through Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts or another endless stream of short videos. Perhaps you meant to watch just one—but ended up staying much longer. It’s become second nature. And it’s not just adults. Children, too, are growing up glued to screens, consuming content almost constantly. As our […]

01
Jul

FACT CHECK: Does staying up too late at night really increase the risk of early death?

Arijit Gupta / 3 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: A viral Instagram post claims that late-night scrolling significantly raises the risk of early death, as blue light and disrupted sleep cycles damage cardiovascular health and interfere with cellular repair. FACT: While studies suggest that disrupted sleep cycles might lead to risks of cardiovascular diseases, there are no direct links that it raises […]

01
Jul

Measles meets misinformation: How false claims fuelled Bangladesh’s health crisis

Abdullah Al Soad / 3 months
0
7 min read

Bangladesh’s measles outbreak, which has been spreading rapidly since March, has left 712 confirmed and suspected deaths by June 30, 2024, overwhelming hospitals with daily admissions of infected children. As the health crisis deepens, it is being compounded by a parallel surge of misinformation, with Rumor Scanner reporting 383 false claims in May alone, including 26 directly linked to […]

30
Jun

Premature babies face risk of blindness from ROP: Early screening can save vision

Arijit Gupta / 3 months
0
4 min read

Every year, thousands of babies in India are born prematurely, before their eyes have fully developed. A condition called retinopathy of prematurity, or ROP, threatens to steal their sight before they have even had a chance to see the world. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, ROP is an eye disease that primarily affects […]

30
Jun

Can vitiligo affect more than your skin? Experts explain its links to the immune system

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
4 min read

Vitiligo is often viewed as a cosmetic condition because of the white patches it causes on the skin. But scientists and dermatologists increasingly emphasise that the disorder goes far beyond appearance. Growing evidence shows that vitiligo is an immune-mediated disease in which the body’s own immune system mistakenly attacks melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment. Researchers […]

29
Jun

FACT CHECK: Can eating grapes daily help in protecting your skin from sun?

Arijit Gupta / 3 months
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Grapes help protect skin cells from UV-related damage and may also help prevent premature ageing. FACT: Several studies have found that grapes possess anti-inflammatory properties that aid skin repair and help protect against UV-related damage. However, doctors recommend combining grape consumption with other sun-protection measures such as sunscreen, umbrellas, protective clothing and sunglasses, along […]

29
Jun

Is your favourite Instagram filter quietly altering your sense of self?

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
9 min read

Before you select your favourite filter on Instagram or Snapchat for the perfect picture or an aesthetically pleasing selfie, you may want to pause and consider what it is doing beyond your appearance. New research suggests that prolonged exposure to filtered images and highly curated social media content may subtly change how people perceive themselves, […]

25
Jun

Why 90 minutes of weight training a week could be enough for boosting longevity

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
7 min read

A new study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine suggests that around 90 to 120 minutes of strength or resistance training each week may be the ideal range for promoting longevity. Drawing on nearly three decades of data from more than 1.47 lakh adults, researchers found that moderate resistance training was associated with a […]

25
Jun

Can drinking green tea daily reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke?

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: Drinking green tea every day may help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. The post claims that the catechins and antioxidants present in green tea support cardiovascular health, improve circulation, protect cells from oxidative stress, and contribute to overall long-term wellness when consumed regularly as part of a healthy lifestyle. FACT: Current […]

24
Jun

Female sterilisation at 36.5%, vasectomy at just 0.5%: Why India’s family planning burden still falls on women

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
9 min read

The latest findings from the sixth National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6) have once again thrown light on an underlying imbalance in India’s approach to family planning. According to the survey, India’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has remained at 2.0 children per woman, below the replacement level of 2.1, while access to family planning services has improved, with […]

23
Jun

The viral clove tea claim everyone is talking about: Can it boost immunity and fight infections?

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Drinking clove tea every day for two weeks may help fight infections, reduce inflammation, and support the body’s natural defenses. The post suggests that compounds found in cloves, particularly eugenol, can help manage oxidative stress, promote overall wellness, and contribute to better health when consumed regularly. FACT: Cloves contain bioactive compounds such as eugenol that have demonstrated antimicrobial, […]

23
Jun

Should you worry about ChattyBear? The risks of AI toys for kids

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
4 min read

A voice greets you cheerfully, “Hello, my buddy!” The voice belongs to ChattyBear, a soft, brown-furred teddy bear powered by the same engine that runs ChatGPT. The toy can tell stories, discuss current events, and adapt to what a child likes. The toy is being marketed to children as young as three as an educational […]

22
Jun

Can generic drugs cut India’s health care costs? Study reveals massive savings for patients

Bharath Thampi / 3 months
0
6 min read

As chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer become increasingly common in India, the cost of medicines is emerging as one of the country’s biggest healthcare challenges. A recent study published by Springer Nature found that out-of-pocket expenses (OOPEs) on medicines account for nearly 70 per cent of India’s healthcare expenditure, placing a disproportionate burden […]

20
Jun

Can early menopause increase your risk of heart disease? Lancet study reveals South Asian women are more vulnerable

Riyaz Wani / 3 months
0
8 min read

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life when menstrual periods permanently stop, marking the end of her reproductive years. It is diagnosed after a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a period and typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. When menopause occurs before the age of 40, it is known as […]

19
Jun

FACT CHECK: Do walnuts really boost memory and give you glowing skin?

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Eating walnuts on an empty stomach in the morning may boost memory, support brain function, improve cognitive performance, and give glowing skin due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and nutrient-rich properties. The post further claims that regular walnut consumption may help reduce oxidative stress, support mental sharpness, and improve overall wellness over time. FACT: Some […]

19
Jun

FACT CHECK: Does polyester underwear drop sperm count to zero?

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: The post claims that wearing 100% polyester underwear can cause sperm counts to drop to zero over time by trapping heat around the testes. It further suggests that the effect is reversible and that switching to breathable cotton underwear can restore sperm production. FACT: False. Current evidence does not support the claim that ordinary polyester underwear causes […]

18
Jun

FACT CHECK: Do black chickpeas help strengthen your back?

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Eating black chickpeas daily may help strengthen the back and improve back health by supporting muscle function, strength, and recovery. The post claims that nutrients such as protein, iron, magnesium, and fibre found in black chickpeas may help reduce muscle weakness and support mobility over time when combined with a healthy lifestyle. FACT: Black chickpeas contain nutrients such […]

18
Jun

You Answered, We Listened – Presenting First Check LIVE !

Dr Sabba Mehmood / 3 months
0
4 min read

Every day, millions of people search the internet for answers about their health — and every day, they’re met with conflicting information, sponsored content, and advice nobody can verify. AI is only speeding this up. The bigger issue underneath it all? Trust. So a few weeks ago, we turned that question back to you: what […]

17
Jun

As Kerala battles Shigella threat, WHO warns unsafe food sickens 866 million people worldwide

Arijit Gupta / 3 months
0
6 min read

Unsafe food causes an estimated 866 million illnesses and 1.5 million deaths worldwide each year, with young children bearing a disproportionate share of the burden, according to the latest report from the World Health Organization. The report found that children under the age of five, who make up just 9 per cent of the global population, […]

16
Jun

FACT CHECK: Does papaya help reduce bloating?

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Eating papaya on an empty stomach in the morning may help improve digestion, reduce bloating, and support liver health due to its digestive enzymes, fibre, water content, and antioxidant-rich nutrients. The post also suggests that consuming papaya first thing in the morning may improve nutrient absorption and support overall metabolic and digestive wellness. FACT: […]

15
Jun

FACT CHECK: Can failing to brush your teeth damage your heart?

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
10 min read

CLAIM: Not brushing your teeth at night may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease by allowing harmful oral bacteria and plaque to build up, potentially triggering inflammation and affecting blood vessels and heart health over time. The claim also suggests that maintaining proper oral hygiene may help support long-term cardiovascular health. FACT: Current research suggests […]

15
Jun

From the humble lanes of Bihar to the gym bottles, how ‘sattu’ became a superfood

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
9 min read

Remember ‘litti chokha’? And how it trended in the food business again, with people missing their hometown indulging in the soaked-in-ghee littis straight out of the koila (charcoal)? People often asked what the filling was made of. We all must agree how this filling – called ‘sattu’, or roasted gram flour, has made its entry […]

12
Jun

West Nile Virus vs Shigella in Kerala: How to identify symptoms and understand the key differences

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
7 min read

Kerala is on high alert after a 70-year-old man from Ernakulam died due to suspected West Nile fever. State health authorities have intensified surveillance after this became the second reported death linked to the mosquito-borne disease within a week. Residents have been urged to follow mosquito-control measures, and officials have warned that negligence in maintaining […]

12
Jun

Recurring headaches, memory lapses? These subtle symptoms could point to a brain tumour

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
6 min read

Do you often brush off recurring headaches, forgetfulness, or brief episodes of blurred vision as stress, lack of sleep, or a busy schedule? While these symptoms are usually linked to everyday causes, doctors say that in some cases they may point to a more serious underlying condition, including a brain tumour. A brain tumour is […]

11
Jun

Smoking doesn’t just damage your lungs—It could age your ovaries too

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
5 min read

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 267 million adults aged 15 years and above in India – around 29 per cent of all adults – were tobacco users as per the Global Adult Tobacco Survey India 2016–17. While smokeless tobacco products such as khaini, gutkha, zarda, and betel quid with tobacco remain the […]

10
Jun

Mental disorders nearly double globally, adolescents and women most affected

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
8 min read

Mental health – something many people still hide, something we often give second thoughts to before discussing openly, and something society is still learning to understand better – is a deeply serious issue that needs to be part of public discourse more than ever before. Even as conversations around mental health grow, stigma still surrounds […]

10
Jun

West Bengal’s diabetes numbers are worse than India’s average. Here’s why

Arijit Gupta / 3 months
0
7 min read

West Bengal has seen a sharp rise in the number of cases with higher blood sugar levels that outnumber the national average among both men and women, according to the latest National Family Health Survey. As per the NFHS-6, 9.4 per cent of women in West Bengal fall in the ‘high’ blood sugar category (141–160 […]

09
Jun

The new pre-marriage health check? Experts decode why more couples are opting for genetic compatibility testing

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
8 min read

A young couple from Bengaluru, *Priyanka, 31, and *Karthik, 33, (names changed on request), were healthy, happy, and excited to begin a family. With no symptoms or known family history of any serious illness, they assumed there was little to worry about. But during pre-conception testing at Nova IVF Fertility, doctors discovered that both partners […]

08
Jun

Fact Check: Could storing hot or lemon water in a copper bottle be toxic?

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Storing lemon water, cumin water, or hot water in a copper bottle can be harmful because acidic ingredients and heat may react with copper and increase copper leaching into the drink. According to the viral claim, improper use of copper bottles could potentially make the water toxic and negatively affect health. FACT: True. […]

08
Jun

FACT CHECK: Can this declassified CIA ‘secret’ instantly turn off pain?

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Repeating the number sequence “55515” while focusing on a painful sensation can make pain disappear or significantly reduce it. According to the viral reel, the sequence acts as a “quantum code” that sends a signal to the brain that the pain is temporary, causing it to diminish almost instantly. FACT: False. There is no […]

05
Jun

The good, the bad, or the ugly? What NFHS-6 reveals about Kerala’s health

Sakshi Srivastava / 3 months
0
16 min read

Kerala has long been considered one of India’s benchmark healthcare models. From high life expectancy and literacy levels to strong maternal and child health indicators, the state is often cited as a model for the rest of the country. But has Kerala managed to sustain that reputation in the years since NFHS-5? Are its people healthier today? […]

04
Jun

FACT CHECK: Do clove and cinnamon improve insulin sensitivity?

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: Eating a mixture of clove and cinnamon may improve insulin sensitivity, help regulate blood sugar levels, and reduce glucose spikes after meals. The claim also suggests that compounds in these spices can mimic insulin action, support pancreatic health, and reduce inflammation linked to metabolic disorders. FACT: Current research suggests cinnamon and clove may have […]

04
Jun

FACT CHECK: Can eating yogurt really improve vaginal health by 50%?

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Eating yogurt regularly, especially three times a week, can improve vaginal health by up to 50% because of probiotic strains like Lactobacillus. The claim suggests that these probiotics help maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome and may lower the risk of infections such as bacterial vaginosis. FACT: Research suggests that probiotics found in yogurt, particularly […]

03
Jun

Wockhardt’s Zaynich makes history as India’s first fully homegrown FDA-approved drug

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
6 min read

In a landmark achievement for India’s pharmaceutical industry, Wockhardt has received approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) for Zaynich (cefepime and zidebactam), a novel antibiotic designed to treat adults suffering from complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI), including kidney infections. The approval marks a significant breakthrough not only for the Mumbai-headquartered […]

03
Jun

Seven years. One question that never got old

Dr Sabba Mehmood / 4 months
0
5 min read

I am often asked what “First Check” means. And I get it; it sounds self-explanatory enough. But first check… what, exactly? And how did that even become a name? The answer is simpler than you’d think. And also the whole story. Back in 2019, I would finish a long day at the hospital as […]

02
Jun

Not all back pain is normal; Understanding Sciatica

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
5 min read

Have you ever noticed someone walking unevenly, struggling to sit comfortably, or suddenly pausing mid-step because of a sharp pain shooting down their leg? What many dismiss as “normal back pain” could actually be sciatica – a painful nerve condition that can quietly interfere with daily life, mobility, sleep, and even mental well-being. Sciatica is […]

01
Jun

‘Swiftness is like medicine’: SC calls trauma care part of right to life, orders integration of emergency helpline numbers

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
9 min read

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said that the right to trauma care is an integral part of the right to life guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution, and directed all states and Union Territories to integrate emergency and ambulance helpline numbers such as 100, 101, 102, 1033, 108 and 1091 into the single emergency number 112 […]

30
May

WHO says global cholera risk remains ‘very high’ as nearly 80,000 cases reported in 2026

First Check Team / 4 months
0
3 min read

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the global risk from cholera remains “very high” despite a decline in cases and deaths compared to the same period last year. In its latest Multi-country Outbreak of Cholera Epidemiological Update released on May 29, the WHO said that from January 1 to April 26, 2026, a […]

29
May

The hidden cost of urban living: Indian women at a higher risk of ovarian cancer?

Sinchan Saha / 4 months
0
5 min read

In India’s high-rise corporate offices and IT corridors, a quiet crisis is unfolding. It often begins with a familiar, nagging discomfort, like bloating, a symptom many women dismiss as late-night work meals, spicy food or work stress. A 2022 report by the World Cancer Research Fund ranked India second globally in ovarian cancer cases, with […]

29
May

FACT CHECK: Does cinnamon reduce menstrual pain?

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Cinnamon may help reduce menstrual pain, cramping, nausea, and heavy bleeding. The claim also suggests that compounds in cinnamon can relax uterine muscle contractions, reduce prostaglandin activity linked to period cramps, and support menstrual health when consumed regularly. FACT: Current research suggests that cinnamon may provide mild relief from menstrual pain, cramping, nausea, and […]

27
May

Want to delay dementia, heart disease and cancer? Your fitness in midlife may matter

First Check Team / 4 months
0
3 min read

Higher levels of fitness in middle age may do more than help people stay active; they could also delay chronic illness and extend life, according to a major new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. The study, titled “Midlife Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Healthy Aging: An Observational Cohort Study,” found that adults […]

27
May

How a new depression therapy shifts focus from pain to pleasure

First Check Team / 4 months
0
4 min read

For decades, most depression treatments have focused on reducing distress — easing sadness, anxiety, or fear. But a growing body of research suggests that what many patients are missing is not just relief from pain, but a return to joy. A new randomised clinical trial offers evidence that targeting positive emotions directly may be more […]

26
May

Sudden vision loss? Why doctors say it could be an early sign of multiple sclerosis

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
5 min read

Vision problems are often dismissed as simple eye strain, fatigue, or the need for a new pair of glasses. But in some cases, sudden blurred vision, pain behind the eyes, or difficulty seeing colours may signal something far more serious happening deep within the nervous system. Doctors warn that optic neuritis – an inflammation of […]

26
May

Freeze now, baby later? All you need to know, from the right age to how much it costs to preserve your eggs

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
9 min read

Career goals, financial stability, relationships, marriage, motherhood, and the constant pressure of the ‘biological clock’ mean that fertility decisions for many women today are deeply personal, emotional, and often overwhelming. As more women choose to delay pregnancy for professional, medical, or personal reasons, conversations around fertility preservation are also becoming increasingly common. Among the options […]

25
May

Is the world becoming more vulnerable to future pandemics? Here’s what the WHO-backed report says

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
11 min read

As parts of Central Africa continue to battle fresh Ebola outbreaks, while concerns around hantavirus, mpox and avian influenza also remains active, a new international report has delivered a stark warning: the world may actually be becoming more vulnerable to future pandemics despite the painful lessons of COVID-19. Amidst these repeated outbreaks and growing fears around […]

25
May

Can your morning coffee protect your brain and body from ageing?

First Check Team / 4 months
0
5 min read

For millions of people around the world, coffee is more than a morning ritual. It is comfort, conversation, habit, and increasingly, science suggests, it may also be a quiet ally in the fight against aging and chronic disease. A growing body of research is now shedding light on why regular coffee drinkers often appear to […]

22
May

Can heatwave trigger low or high BP?

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
5 min read

As temperatures continue to soar across several parts of India, people are stepping out armed with sunscreens, umbrellas, water bottles, and every possible trick to survive the sweltering summer heat. But beyond dehydration, tanning, and exhaustion, experts say the rising temperatures may also be quietly affecting something far more serious – your blood pressure. Weather has long been […]

21
May

Delhi airport issues Ebola advisory for passengers from Congo, Uganda, South Sudan

First Check Team / 4 months
0
2 min read

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) on Thursday issued an advisory on the Ebola virus, asking passengers arriving from or transiting through affected countries to immediately report to airport health officials if they feel unwell. The advisory comes a day after the Union health secretary chaired a high-level review meeting with states to assess preparedness […]

21
May

Why India’s first childhood diabetes guidelines come at a critical time

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
4 min read

In a significant move to strengthen paediatric healthcare, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has, for the first time, introduced a structured and standardised national framework for the screening, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of diabetes in children. The newly released “Guidance Document on Diabetes Mellitus in Children,” unveiled at the National Summit on Best Practices in Public […]

20
May

FACT CHECK: Can this tiny seed really regulate periods?

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Consuming 1–2 tablespoons of flax seeds daily can help balance hormones and regulate menstrual cycles. The post suggests that flax seeds can reduce PMS symptoms, cramps, and inflammation. FACT: Flax seeds contain lignans and omega-3 fatty acids that may support hormonal health, particularly by influencing estrogen metabolism and helping with mild symptoms like PMS […]

20
May

Is your daily sugar habit secretly ageing your face faster?

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: Eating excess sugar can accelerate skin ageing by damaging collagen through a process called glycation. This may make the skin less elastic, lead to earlier wrinkles, and contribute to a more aged appearance over time. FACT: Current scientific evidence suggests that excessive sugar intake may contribute to skin ageing through processes like glycation and […]

19
May

Breakthrough drug target may help regrow cartilage, ease osteoarthritis pain

First Check Team / 4 months
0
4 min read

A promising new study suggests that blocking a single age-linked enzyme could help regenerate damaged cartilage, reduce pain and potentially transform treatment for osteoarthritis, a condition that affects mobility in millions of people worldwide. Researchers reported in Science that inhibiting the enzyme 15-hydroxy prostaglandin dehydrogenase (15-PGDH) led to substantial cartilage repair in both aged mice and younger […]

19
May

FACT CHECK: Can snoring really damage your brain and increase dementia risk?

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Snoring may contribute to brain damage and increase the risk of dementia. The post suggests that frequent, loud snoring – especially when linked to sleep apnea, can reduce oxygen supply, disrupt sleep, and over time negatively impact brain health and cognitive function. FACT: Snoring alone does not cause brain damage or dementia. However, loud and chronic […]

18
May

FACT CHECK: Can pomegranate juice reduce artery blockages?

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Drinking one cup of pomegranate juice daily can reduce artery blockages by up to 30 per cent. The post implies that its antioxidant properties can support better blood flow and contribute to preventing heart-related issues. FACT: Pomegranate juice contains antioxidants that may help improve heart health by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and cholesterol levels. However, scientific evidence does […]

18
May

Can you stop obesity medication after losing weight?

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
8 min read

For years, weight loss has largely been spoken about as a journey of discipline — eat less, move more, stay consistent. But for millions struggling with obesity, the reality is often far more complicated. People spend years moving between diets, workout plans, nutrition advice, and periods of frustration, only to find the weight returning again […]

18
May

WHO declares latest Ebola outbreak a global health emergency amid rising cases in Congo and Uganda

First Check Team / 4 months
0
3 min read

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the latest Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda a “public health emergency of international concern”, as health authorities warn that the current strain has no approved vaccine or specific treatment. According to WHO, as of May 16, 246 suspected cases and 80 suspected […]

15
May

PCOS renamed PMOS to reflect wider health risks

First Check Team / 4 months
0
3 min read

A major shift has taken place in women’s health terminology, with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) officially being renamed Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) following a global medical consensus published in The Lancet. The new name aims to better reflect the condition’s broader hormonal, metabolic and reproductive impact. For years, doctors and researchers argued that the […]

15
May

FACT CHECK: Does Diet Coke cause cancer?

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Aspartame, the artificial sweetener used in Diet Coke, has been declared a ‘possible carcinogen’ by the World Health Organization, raising concerns that consuming Diet Coke may increase cancer risk. FACT: While the WHO’s cancer research agency classified aspartame as ‘possibly carcinogenic’ in 2023, this was based on limited evidence and does not prove that […]

14
May

As weight-loss drugs rise, bariatric surgeries fall 20% in the US; Is India next?

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
8 min read

It usually begins the same way. A promise to start fresh on a Monday. A new diet chart saved on the phone. A gym membership that feels like a commitment to a better life. Weight loss – something most of us fall into at some point – comes with its own cycle of hope and […]

14
May

FACT CHECK: Does McDonald’s use human meat, Domino’s use carcinogens, and KFC add harmful ingredients?

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: A viral reel claims that ethylene oxide, a carcinogen, was found in 19,000 kg of Domino’s pizza sauce, that McDonald’s uses human meat in its burgers, and that KFC adds harmful chemicals to its chicken that can damage the body. It suggests these are part of a larger attempt to normalise toxic food consumption and even cannibalism. FACT: There is […]

13
May

Why the viral ice bath challenge can be dangerous during a heatwave

Safna Malik / 4 months
0
6 min read

The World Health Organization confirms that heatwaves are becoming more intense and frequent as global temperatures continue to soar. In regions surrounding the Indian Ocean, the combination of rising carbon emissions and warmer sea temperatures has pushed humidity levels to sweltering levels of 38°C to 40°C. When the air feels this hot, you will try almost anything to […]

13
May

Artificial ripening and pesticides: What’s really on our plates?

Riyaz Wani / 4 months
0
4 min read

The recent deaths of four members of a family in Mumbai after consuming watermelon triggered panic far beyond the city. Social media quickly filled with warnings about “poisoned fruits,” chemical injections and unsafe produce. But forensic investigations later revealed that the deaths were linked not to watermelon itself, but to zinc phosphide, a highly toxic […]

12
May

Can inuspheresis aka blood ‘detox’ therapy really remove microplastics, heavy metals, and cholesterol from your body?

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: The viral reel claims that Inuspheresis therapy can ‘filter’ the blood and remove harmful substances like microplastics, heavy metals, oxidised cholesterol, and even spike proteins. It further suggests that this leads to reduced inflammation and noticeable health benefits such as improved mental clarity, reduced pain, and better overall well-being. FACT: Inuspheresis (a form of apheresis) can remove certain substances […]

12
May

Does your favourite celebrity eat what they promote? Rethinking unhealthy food choices

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
8 min read

There was a time when our choices felt simple – whatever our favourite celebrity endorsed became our favourite too. A packet of chips, a fizzy drink, or a mango juice wasn’t just food; it felt like a connection to someone we admired and believed in. We didn’t question ingredients, labels, or health. If they were […]

12
May

What is Norovirus? Caribbean Princess cruise ship outbreak sparks global concern; Is India at risk too?

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
9 min read

Over 100 passengers and crew members reportedly fell ill during a recent norovirus outbreak aboard the Caribbean Princess cruise ship | X More than 100 passengers and crew members reportedly fell ill during a recent norovirus outbreak aboard the Caribbean Princess cruise ship, once again drawing global attention to the highly contagious virus often called the “winter […]

11
May

Hantavirus: Should India be concerned about another potential outbreak?

Sharmila Saha Roy / 4 months
0
4 min read

The memories of the COVID-19 pandemic are still fresh, and amid continuing discussions around emerging infectious diseases, another virus — Hantavirus — has once again drawn global attention. The rodent-borne infection, known to cause respiratory, cardiac, and renal complications in humans, has sparked concern following reports of an outbreak aboard the luxury cruise ship MV […]

11
May

Nearly one in four adults lacks basic health literacy — And it’s costing the world $303 billion a year

Umar Aman / 4 months
0
4 min read

The ability to read a prescription label, understand a discharge summary, or know when a symptom warrants a doctor’s visit — these feel like basic life skills. But for nearly one in four adults across 40 countries studied by Economist Impact, they aren’t. And the consequences, a newly published policy brief argues, are devastating: poorer health outcomes, widening […]

11
May

Love mangoes but have diabetes? Here’s how to eat them safely this summer

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
4 min read

Mangoes are an essential part of the Indian summer, often called the “king of fruits” for their rich taste and cultural significance. From fresh slices to shakes and desserts, they are enjoyed across households. However, because of their natural sweetness, many people, especially those living with diabetes, often worry whether eating mangoes can lead to […]

08
May

Can eating eggs regularly lower Alzheimer’s risk? New study reveals surprising link

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
6 min read

A new study published in The Journal of Nutrition has found that regular egg consumption may be linked to a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease – a progressive condition that affects memory, thinking, and daily functioning. The research draws on data from the long-running Adventist Health Study-2, analysing dietary habits and health outcomes among 39,498 […]

08
May

FACT CHECK: Can eating dry fruits randomly cause kidney stones?

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Eating dry fruits ‘randomly’ can increase the risk of kidney stones because they are high in oxalates, which may bind with calcium and form stones. It also claims that compounds like phytates in dry fruits can block mineral absorption, leading to nutrient deficiencies, and therefore, they should be consumed in a specific pattern. FACT: […]

07
May

Why India’s first childhood diabetes guidelines come at a critical time

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
4 min read

In a significant move to strengthen paediatric healthcare, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has, for the first time, introduced a structured and standardised national framework for the screening, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of diabetes in children. The newly released “Guidance Document on Diabetes Mellitus in Children,” unveiled at the National Summit on Best Practices […]

06
May

85% Indians already using AI for health; but are the systems ready?

Sakshi Srivastava / 4 months
0
9 min read

Over the past few years, AI in healthcare has been a hot topic—no longer just a concept, but something people are actively trying out in their everyday lives. On one side, there are reports highlighting the benefits – the ease of access, faster responses, and the possibility of personalised care at scale. On the other, there are equally […]

06
May

Why fermented foods need extra caution during summer

Sharmila Saha Roy / 4 months
0
4 min read

As summer temperatures soar past 40°C in several Indian states, fermented foods such as idli, dosa, kanji and pakhala remain popular for their cooling effect and digestive benefits. But three recent incidents in Ahmedabad, Mayurbhanj and Bengaluru—linked to contaminated fermented dishes—have caused three deaths and sickened more than 250 people, raising fresh concerns over food safety during the […]

05
May

Health misinformation spreads fast. Trusted answers matter more

Dr Sabba Mehmood / 5 months
0
4 min read

When we started First Check back in 2019, misinformation was already something we were worried about. But today, it feels very different. Information doesn’t just reach us anymore; it rushes at us. Through WhatsApp forwards, Instagram reels, YouTube videos, voice notes in family groups. And a lot of it, especially around health, sits in this […]

05
May

FACT CHECK: Is the viral ‘Japanese interval walking’ technique really that effective?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Interval walking, which alternates between slow and brisk walking, offers greater health benefits than the traditional 10,000-step approach. It is suggested that doing this regularly can improve cardiovascular health, mood, immunity, and overall fitness. FACT: Interval walking – alternating between brisk and slow-paced walking, can improve cardiovascular fitness, blood pressure, and metabolism when done consistently, and some […]

05
May

FACT CHECK: Does sugar intake cause depression?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Higher sugar consumption leads to increased depression, suggesting a direct link between sugar intake and worsening mental health. FACT: Research shows that high sugar intake is associated with an increased risk of depressive symptoms, but it does not prove that sugar directly causes depression. The relationship is influenced by multiple factors such as overall […]

04
May

FACT CHECK: Does an ice cube between the thumb and index finger cure migraines?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Placing an ice cube between the thumb and index finger can relieve migraine or severe headache pain by calming pain signals. The method is said to work through nerve pathways connected to the head and may reduce headache intensity without medication. FACT: Placing ice between the thumb and index finger (LI4/Hegu point) may provide […]

01
May

Explained: What is electrolyte imbalance — and why it matters in a harsh summer

First Check Team / 5 months
0
6 min read

As temperatures climb across India, terms like “electrolyte imbalance” and “heat stroke” are increasingly entering everyday conversation. But beyond the buzzwords lies a serious public health risk, one that can escalate quickly if ignored. This explainer breaks down what electrolyte imbalance actually means, how it is linked to extreme heat, and what people can do […]

01
May

FACT CHECK: Are popular face sheet masks unsafe for the skin?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Face masks such as sheet masks and charcoal masks are unsafe for the skin and should not be used. The discussion also suggests that trending skincare masks like “bird poop masks” or “menstrual blood masks” are harmful and should be completely avoided. FACT: Scientific evidence does not support the claim that all face masks […]

01
May

AI, deepfakes and health:: How the world is trying to regulate a growing threat

Pratibha / 5 months
0
6 min read

“Is it AI?” has become one of the most frequently asked questions across comment sections and Twitter feeds today—a phrase that emerged naturally in the GenAI era of content consumption. But long before this wave of AI-generated material, another term had already entered public discourse: deepfakes. The words “deepfake” and “AI-generated content” are routinely used […]

30
Apr

WHO clears first malaria treatment for newborns, flags new diagnostic tools

First Check Team / 5 months
0
3 min read

The World Health Organization (WHO) has prequalified the first-ever malaria treatment specifically designed for newborns and young infants, marking a major step in addressing a long-standing treatment gap for the most vulnerable patients. Announced ahead of World Malaria Day on April 25, the move clears the use of a tailored formulation of artemether-lumefantrine for babies […]

30
Apr

FACT CHECK: Does ice cream actually keep you cool?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Eating ice cream in summer does not actually cool the body; instead, it may increase internal heat due to its high sugar and fat content. It is suggested that ice cream only provides temporary cooling, after which the body feels hotter and digestion may slow down. FACT: Ice cream may create a brief cooling […]

30
Apr

Mumbai food poisoning tragedy: Can watermelon become poisonous? Experts separate fact from fear

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
6 min read

A late-night meal in Mumbai has turned into a disturbing tragedy, sparking fear and speculation around a common summer fruit – watermelon. Four members of a family died within hours of falling ill, in what police suspect to be a case of food poisoning. The incident, reported from the Pydhonie area, has drawn attention online, particularly over the […]

29
Apr

We need to build trust, not demand it: Dr Gagandeep Kang on vaccines, misinformation, and public confidence

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
7 min read

Vaccines have long stood as one of the most powerful and cost-effective tools in public health. Over the past five decades, they have saved an estimated 15 crore lives globally, protecting communities from diseases such as measles, polio, diphtheria, and rotavirus. Yet, despite overwhelming scientific evidence supporting their safety and effectiveness, vaccine hesitancy continues to pose a serious challenge. […]

29
Apr

Heatwave alert: What you must do to stay safe from the scorching heat

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
5 min read

Sweltering summers are tightening their grip across the country. On Saturday, Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 44.5°C, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), underscoring the intensity of this year’s heatwave. But beyond the discomfort, the rising mercury is increasingly becoming a serious public health concern – linked to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even life-threatening conditions […]

29
Apr

FACT CHECK: Is heart attack likely to be caused in the bathroom?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Heart attacks are common in bathrooms and can be triggered by improper bathing practices. Pouring water directly on the head is said to increase the risk, while following a specific sequence – starting from the feet, then the body, and finally the head- can help prevent such incidents. FACT: Scientific evidence shows that while […]

28
Apr

SC backs minor’s right to abortion beyond 28 weeks, but is the dilemma settled?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
7 min read

The Supreme Court of India on Monday issued a stern warning to the Union government, cautioning that failure to comply with its April 24 order allowing a 15-year-old Delhi girl to terminate her over 28-week pregnancy could invite contempt proceedings. The court made it clear that its directions were binding and must be implemented without […]

28
Apr

Chronic or seasonal asthma? Here’s how to spot the difference

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
4 min read

Asthma is one of the most common noncommunicable diseases worldwide. According to the World Health Organisation, an estimated 26.2 crore people were living with asthma in 2019, with over 4.5 lakh deaths globally. In India, the burden is even more striking. The Global Asthma Report 2022 estimates that nearly 3.5 crore people in the country are affected, placing India […]

28
Apr

Quitting tobacco may boost both health and income for every 1 in 10 Indian families

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
7 min read

Walk into any office complex, a chai stall outside a metro station, or even a small corner shop in a residential lane, and there’s almost always a familiar scene. Someone stepping out for a “quick smoke break,” another buying a pack “just for today,” and a group casually discussing how much of their salary disappears […]

27
Apr

FACT CHECK: Can cold water, fermented foods and walking prevent cancer after 50?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
14 min read

CLAIM: Set of daily lifestyle habits – including drinking water first thing in the morning, eating fermented foods, engaging in “metabolic walking,” consuming cruciferous vegetables, and maintaining proper sleep- can significantly reduce cancer risk after the age of 50. FACT: Current research does not support the claim that these daily habits can directly prevent cancer after 50. While […]

27
Apr

FACT CHECK: Do aluminium utensils cause cancer?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: CLAIM: Using aluminium utensils for cooking is dangerous and can cause cancer. The claim suggests that preparing food in aluminium cookware directly exposes people to carcinogenic risks, making it unsafe for everyday use. FACT: Aluminium can leach into food, especially when cooking acidic items or using low-quality utensils, but current scientific evidence does not […]

25
Apr

Lifestyle diseases rise sharply in India as infections decline: NSO survey

First Check Team / 5 months
0
2 min read

Lifestyle-related illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease and thyroid disorders have increased significantly in India over the past decade, while infectious diseases have declined, according to the latest nationwide health survey by the National Statistics Office (NSO). The survey found that nearly half of the population now reports cardiovascular and metabolic ailments, compared with […]

24
Apr

What are the key myths driving vaccine hesitancy among parents?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
3 min read

Vaccines have long been one of the most powerful tools in public health, “saving more than 15 crore lives over the past 50 years. This success, the WHO notes, has not been accidental but the result of ordinary people choosing “to protect themselves and their communities from diseases such as measles, diphtheria, pertussis, polio, and rotavirus.” With […]

24
Apr

WHO urges renewed vaccine equity push as millions in South-East Asia remain unprotected

First Check Team / 5 months
0
3 min read

The World Health Organization (WHO) South-East Asia Region on Friday called for stronger and sustained efforts to ensure vaccines reach every community, warning that millions of people remain unvaccinated despite decades of progress in immunization. WHO said vaccines have saved more than 154 million lives globally over the past 50 years, including an estimated 38 […]

24
Apr

Can malaria harm your baby during pregnancy? Expert debunks key myths

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
4 min read

Malaria during pregnancy can pose serious risks not only to the mother but also to the unborn child, increasing the chances of complications such as anaemia, low birth weight, stillbirth, and in severe cases, maternal and fetal death. Despite being preventable and treatable, experts warn that lack of awareness and persistent myths often delay timely […]

23
Apr

Genes may shape half of human lifespan: New study challenges long-held beliefs

First Check Team / 5 months
0
3 min read

For decades, scientists believed that how long we live was largely shaped by environment, lifestyle, and sheer chance, with genetics playing only a modest role. But a new study published in Science by researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science overturns that assumption, suggesting that genes may account for around 50 per cent of human lifespan, […]

23
Apr

Deepika Padukone’s second pregnancy at 40: What changes the second time?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
7 min read

Deepika Padukone is all set to embrace motherhood once again at the age of 40, bringing renewed attention to conversations around second pregnancies and maternal age. She and Ranveer Singh recently shared the news on Instagram, posting a heartwarming picture of their daughter, Dua, holding a positive pregnancy test kit. The couple had welcomed their first child on […]

22
Apr

FACT CHECK: Is your toothpaste causing thyroid problems?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Using fluoride toothpaste daily can lead to thyroid problems by interfering with iodine absorption. The reel suggests that excessive fluoride exposure may disrupt thyroid function, particularly in women, and that these issues can be reversed through simple dietary changes without medication. FACT: There is no strong scientific evidence that using fluoride toothpaste causes thyroid […]

22
Apr

Why a govt hospital in Pakistan is at the centre of an HIV outbreak affecting hundreds of children | Explained

Sinchan Saha / 5 months
0
5 min read

In an undercover investigation, BBC Eye discovered an extensive trail of medical malpractice, institutional lack of accountability, and regulatory failure at the Tehsil Headquarter (THQ) Hospital in Taunsa, Punjab, Pakistan, a facility now linked to a major HIV outbreak among children. The probe began after a local doctor raised concerns in 2024. Even though the local authorities […]

21
Apr

FACT CHECK: Is your fabric controlling your mood?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Natural fabrics like cotton and linen can improve mood, focus, and overall mindset, while synthetic fabrics may negatively affect how a person feels. The post suggests that clothing choices can influence productivity, decision-making, and even success in life. FACT: Scientific studies show that fabric can influence comfort, thermal regulation, and even short-term emotional […]

21
Apr

World Liver Day | What causes cirrhosis besides alcohol?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
5 min read

Liver disease is emerging as a major public health concern in India, often going unnoticed until it reaches advanced stages. Despite being largely preventable and manageable in its early phases, it continues to contribute significantly to mortality and disease burden. According to global estimates, liver diseases account for nearly two million deaths annually, and India alone contributes to […]

20
Apr

What is the best time to get sunlight for Vitamin D?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
4 min read

In India, sunlight is available for most of the year, yet vitamin D deficiency continues to affect a large proportion of the population. As noted in a study, “Vitamin D deficiency prevails in epidemic proportions all over the Indian subcontinent, with a prevalence of 70%–100% in the general population.” Vitamin D is essential for overall health, supporting […]

20
Apr

Are AI chatbots giving you the wrong diagnosis? Study flags 50% error risk

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
7 min read

With every leap in technology, a familiar debate resurfaces – what if it helps us, and what if it harms us? Artificial Intelligence sits right at the centre of this dilemma. Once, a quick Google search was our go-to for health concerns – typing symptoms, scrolling through links, and often self-diagnosing. Today, that behaviour has evolved. […]

17
Apr

FACT CHECK: Does eating white rice on an empty stomach cause a rise in blood sugar levels?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Eating white rice on an empty stomach leads to rapid digestion and causes a quick spike in blood sugar levels because there is no other food present to slow down the process. This sudden rise in glucose is followed by a rapid drop in blood sugar, which may make a person feel hungry again […]

17
Apr

Why cancer drug Keytruda costs so much—and who really pays the price?

Salam Chingkheingaba / 5 months
0
6 min read

A life-saving cancer drug hailed as a breakthrough in modern medicine has become a symbol of a deeply unequal global health care system. A yearlong investigation by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) has revealed how Merck & Co. has maintained sky-high prices for its blockbuster drug Keytruda, effectively locking out patients worldwide while […]

16
Apr

Can sugar substitutes affect your unborn child?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
8 min read

A new study published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition has raised important questions about the long-term safety of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS), suggesting that their effects may extend beyond individual consumers to influence the health of future generations. Conducted in mice, the research demonstrates that commonly used sugar substitutes such as sucralose and stevia can alter gut microbiota, […]

15
Apr

Can fasting kill cancer cells, as BJP leader Annamalai suggested? What you need to know

Salam Chingkheingaba / 5 months
0
5 min read

Claim: Miracle cures for cancer, including fasting, chanting mantras and homemade juice, kill cancer cells and cure cancer. Fact: Cancer is not a single disease but a large group of diseases. There are many types of cancer treatment. Some people with cancer have only one treatment. But most people have a combination of treatments, such as surgery with chemotherapy and […]

15
Apr

FACT CHECK: Does skipping breakfast cause obesity?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Skipping breakfast significantly increases the risk of weight gain and obesity. People who do not eat breakfast are more likely to have belly fat, be overweight, and become obese compared to those who eat breakfast regularly. FACT: There is no strong scientific evidence that skipping breakfast directly causes obesity. While some studies show an […]

14
Apr

No more condoms or vasectomies? THIS new male birth control could change everything

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
8 min read

In a breakthrough that could reshape the future of family planning, scientists at Cornell University have taken a significant step toward developing a safe, reversible, and non-hormonal sa—long considered the ‘holy grail’ in reproductive health research. Published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the proof-of-principle study demonstrated that temporarily interrupting a key step in sperm production […]

14
Apr

8 in 10 working Indians overweight; Apollo report reveals growing health risks

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
6 min read

Could the biggest threats to your health already be present, without you knowing it? Recent findings from the Health of the Nation 2026 report by Apollo Hospitals underscore why preventive health checks are becoming essential for early detection and better disease outcomes. Notably, among individuals under 30 who underwent screening, more than half were found to […]

13
Apr

FACT CHECK: Do post-meal walks help keep diabetes away?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Post-meal walks can significantly lower blood sugar levels and help prevent diabetes. Regularly walking for 10 minutes after meals improves digestion and may stop a person from developing diabetes altogether. FACT: Post-meal walks can help lower blood sugar spikes and improve glucose control, with studies showing benefits even from short walks of 10–30 minutes. […]

13
Apr

FACT CHECK: Can feelings like fear and anger physically harm your body?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Emotions are stored permanently in the body and directly affect specific organs, eventually leading to physical illnesses. Suppressed feelings over time can even alter cells and DNA, causing serious diseases like cancer. Simple emotional states like anger, fear, or financial stress are linked to damage in particular body parts. FACT: Emotions can influence physical health […]

10
Apr

Kerala assembly polls 2026: What voters should know about the health care record in the state

Pratibha / 5 months
0
4 min read

How well has the LDF government kept its health promises since the last election? A fact-checked scorecard The newly dubbed state of Keralam has long been celebrated for strong public health care. With Assembly elections just around the corner, we decided to review the state’s health care initiatives over the last five years and see how the claims hold […]

10
Apr

FACT CHECK: Is eating French fries worse than smoking a cigarette?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Eating French fries can be more dangerous than smoking cigarettes, particularly because of the repeated use of oil that may generate harmful trans fats. FACT: There is no scientific evidence that eating French fries is more dangerous than smoking cigarettes. Research and experts highlight that while both can harm health, they do so in […]

09
Apr

‘It’s not just jaundice’, expert highlights early warning signs of liver disease in kids

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
4 min read

Liver diseases in children are often overlooked, largely because their early symptoms can be subtle or easily mistaken for common illnesses. Yet, these conditions can significantly impact a child’s growth, development, and overall health if left undiagnosed. From infections and genetic disorders to metabolic and autoimmune conditions, more than 100 types of liver diseases can affect […]

08
Apr

Vaccines Save Lives—Strengthening Access, Equity and Trust

Dr Sabba Mehmood / 5 months
0
4 min read

Vaccination remains one of the most effective scientific tools for preventing disease and saving lives. Since the launch of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) in 1974, and its evolution into India’s Universal Immunization Programme (UIP), we’ve come a long way in safeguarding communities across generations. Today, vaccines prevent an estimated 3.5 to 5 million deaths every year, protecting […]

08
Apr

Crossed 45? Menopause could be accelerating liver fat: Here’s what to know

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
4 min read

Menopause brings a significant shift in metabolic health, one that increases the risk of fatty liver disease in women. Research suggests that declining oestrogen levels after menopause contribute to fat redistribution, insulin resistance, and liver fat accumulation. A 2021 study notes that “the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease increases significantly in patients experiencing premature ovarian insufficiency, as […]

07
Apr

As measles spreads in Bangladesh, should India also be worried?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
7 min read

A fast-moving measles outbreak in Bangladesh has triggered alarm across the region, with over 100 reported deaths, 98 of them children, marking what could be one of the country’s deadliest waves of the disease in recent years. In response, authorities in Bangladesh launched an emergency vaccination campaign on Sunday, aiming to contain the spread and protect vulnerable populations. […]

07
Apr

FACT CHECK: Does eating on banana leaves have real health benefits?

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Eating food on banana leaves provides health benefits because the leaf contains a waxy coating rich in antioxidants (polyphenols). When hot food is served on it, this layer melts and mixes with the food, making it healthier to consume. FACT: Banana leaves do contain antioxidants like polyphenols and may have antimicrobial properties, but these benefits are […]

06
Apr

Is autism a disease that can be cured? Experts bust 5 common myths

Sakshi Srivastava / 5 months
0
3 min read

Autism, also referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals communicate, interact, and experience the world around them. Yet, despite growing awareness, conversations around autism continue to be shaped by stigma, delayed diagnosis, and widespread misconceptions. According to the World Health Organisation, “in 2021 about 1 in […]

03
Apr

New ‘Cicada’ COVID variant spreading: What are the symptoms, is India at risk?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
5 min read

A new subvariant of COVID-19, BA.3.2, also known as ‘Cicada’, is gaining ground in the United States. Part of the Omicron variant family, it was first identified in South Africa in late 2024 and has since been reported in at least 23 countries. Although infections linked to the variant began rising around September 2025, it […]

02
Apr

FACT CHECK: Does soybean cause enlarged breasts in men?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Soy is a safe and healthy source of protein for men and does not cause gynecomastia (man boobs) or increase oestrogen levels. It can be consumed regularly without harming hormonal balance. FACT: Current scientific evidence and expert opinion show that soybean does not cause gynecomastia or increase oestrogen levels in men when consumed in […]

02
Apr

Drug-resistant typhoid drives 87% of India’s disease costs, children suffer most

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
9 min read

Drug-resistant typhoid infections are emerging as a major public health and economic crisis in India, disproportionately affecting children and placing an overwhelming financial burden on households. At a time when antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is becoming a global concern, India’s struggle with typhoid highlights how rising drug resistance is not just a clinical challenge but a […]

01
Apr

Is it harmful to hold your urine? Experts explain the risks

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Regularly holding urine can stretch the bladder, weaken its muscles, and increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Over time, this habit may lead to loss of bladder control, causing urine leakage while laughing or coughing. FACT: True. Regularly delaying urination may stretch the bladder and weaken its muscles over time, and it […]

01
Apr

Why are only 1 in 3 heart failure patients insured in India? Study Explained

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
9 min read

Heart failure (HF) is a complex and chronic clinical condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently to meet the body’s needs. It is not a single disease but a syndrome that develops due to underlying cardiovascular conditions such as coronary artery disease, hypertension, or cardiomyopathy. Globally, heart failure affects an estimated 26 […]

31
Mar

FACT CHECK: Does knee pain end with Ayurveda?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Ayurvedic treatments can completely cure knee pain without the need for surgery or injections. These therapies are presented as scientifically proven and capable of fully restoring joint health. FACT: Scientific evidence suggests that Ayurvedic interventions may help in managing knee osteoarthritis (OA) by reducing symptoms and improving joint function, but they do not support […]

31
Mar

Healthy diet in midlife linked to better brain function later: Study

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
3 min read

A healthy diet during midlife, particularly between the ages of 45 and 54, may significantly improve brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline later in life, according to a new study published in the journal JAMA Neurology. The large cohort study involving 159,347 participants found that people who followed healthy dietary patterns showed […]

30
Mar

Can changing lighting colour improve mental health? Study tests blue-depleted lights in psychiatric wards

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
8 min read

Ever thought that the colour of the lights around you could influence your mental health? A psychiatric unit in Trondheim, Norway, is currently testing whether changing the lighting environment in hospital wards can help people recovering from severe mental health conditions such as psychosis and depression. The approach is based on a simple but intriguing […]

27
Mar

FACT CHECK: Are dates harmful for liver health?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Dates can carry a fungus called Aspergillus because they grow in hot and humid climates and have high sugar content, which may make them harmful to the liver if consumed in large amounts. The reel also claims that worms or insects may be present inside dates and refers to a past outbreak of Hepatitis […]

27
Mar

Can AI identify you from medical images? Study raises privacy concerns

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
4 min read

AI foundation models used in medical imaging could pose privacy risks by potentially enabling patient re-identification, even as they promise major advances in disease detection and diagnosis, according to a new study published in the journal npj Digital Medicine. The study warns that while these models offer “transformative healthcare potential”, they may also retain sensitive information that could threaten confidentiality if […]

27
Mar

FACT CHECK: Do Wi-Fi and microwaves cause cancer?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Non-ionising radiation from everyday devices like Wi-Fi, microwaves, mobile phones, and earphones does not have enough energy to damage DNA and therefore does not cause cancer. Only ionising radiation is capable of penetrating cells and triggering cancerous changes. However, ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun are an exception within non-ionising radiation and can increase […]

26
Mar

FACT CHECK: Do Kegel exercises help men achieve better erections and control ejaculation?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Consuming beetroot juice, improving lifestyle, performing Kegel exercises, and following regular weight training with adequate protein intake (around 1.5 g per kg of body weight) can improve sexual stamina, help men achieve stronger erections, and provide better control over ejaculation. FACT: Research suggests that pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises can help improve erectile function and […]

26
Mar

FACT CHECK: Is it necessary to squeeze or milk breast swelling in babies?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Breast swelling in newborn babies is normal and usually happens due to the mother’s hormones present in the baby. Pressing or squeezing the swollen area to remove milk is unnecessary and can lead to infections or other complications. FACT: Breast swelling and milky discharge in newborns, known as neonatal galactorrhea or “witch’s milk,” is […]

25
Mar

World TB Day | How tuberculosis affects women differently

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
4 min read

Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases, continuing to pose a major public health challenge despite decades of global control efforts. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), TB is among the top 10 causes of death worldwide and the leading cause of death from a single infectious agent, claiming over 12 lakh lives and affecting more […]

25
Mar

FACT CHECK: Can kissing newborns pose health risks, including brain damage?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Kissing a newborn can be life-threatening, as it may transmit infections like herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), especially if the person has an active cold sore. Infections can rapidly affect a baby’s brain, leading to severe damage, long-term health complications, or even death. FACT: True. Newborns have not had time to develop their immune system, […]

24
Mar

Will generic Semaglutide make diabetes and weight loss treatment more accessible in India?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
5 min read

In a significant development for diabetes and obesity care, the patent for semaglutide – the key molecule behind blockbuster drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, expired on March 20. Originally developed by Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk, semaglutide has been widely regarded as a breakthrough in managing type 2 diabetes and aiding weight loss. With the […]

24
Mar

American Heart Association’s new cholesterol guidelines: What’s in it for your heart health

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
7 min read

The American Heart Association (AHA), along with the American College of Cardiology (ACC), has released new guidelines on cholesterol management, marking a significant update in how cardiovascular risk is assessed and treated. The 2026 Guideline on the Management of Dyslipidemia is the first major ‘revision since 2018 and reflects evolving scientific evidence on lipid disorders, including […]

23
Mar

We need to talk more openly about TB: Dr Soumya Swaminathan on India’s TB fight

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
5 min read

Calling for a more open and stigma-free conversation around Tuberculosis, Dr Soumya Swaminathan, Principal Advisor to the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) and Chairperson of the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, said on Monday that India’s fight against TB cannot be won through medical interventions alone and requires greater public awareness, early diagnosis and community engagement. […]

23
Mar

Conflict-driven outbreaks top six global health threats for 2026: Gavi insight paper

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
7 min read

Conflict-associated disease outbreaks are emerging as the most immediate global health threat in 2026, according to a new insight paper by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, which warns that violence, climate change, funding cuts, misinformation, and emerging pathogens are converging to strain fragile health systems worldwide. “These are challenging times for global health,” the paper states. […]

19
Mar

Does what you eat during pregnancy shape your baby’s taste?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: A mother’s eating habits during pregnancy can shape her child’s future food preferences. Foods frequently consumed by the mother while pregnant, such as mangoes or chocolates, may “imprint” on the child in the womb, leading them to like the same foods later in life. FACT: Research shows that flavours from foods eaten during pregnancy can pass into the […]

19
Mar

FACT CHECK: Is screen time fuelling attention problems in children?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Rising ADHD cases in children are primarily caused by excessive screen time due to poor parenting choices. Frequent phone use gives children instant dopamine stimulation, disrupts brain development, and leads to long-term attention problems. FACT: Research shows a consistent association between higher screen time and increased ADHD symptoms or risk in children, with […]

18
Mar

FACT CHECK: Are protein shakes used as supplements not good for children?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Children should not be given protein shakes, as their nutritional needs should ideally be met through regular home-cooked food. Relying on supplements to meet a child’s protein requirement reflects poor dietary habits and parenting. FACT: Protein supplements are generally unnecessary for most healthy children, as their nutritional needs can usually be met through […]

18
Mar

Do toxic people make you age faster? Study finds ‘hasslers’ may speed up biological ageing by 1.5 per cent

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
7 min read

There are several moments in life when everything feels overwhelming. Stress piles up from work, responsibilities, and personal challenges, and people often try to reorganise their lives in search of balance. During such phases, individuals commonly focus on changing routines, improving habits, or reducing external pressures. But what if one overlooked factor also plays a […]

17
Mar

FACT CHECK: Can spraying perfume on the neck damage the thyroid and metabolism?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Spraying perfume directly on the neck can damage the thyroid gland and negatively affect metabolism because the skin in that area is thin and absorbs chemicals quickly. It also suggests that ingredients in synthetic perfumes, such as phthalates, may disrupt hormones and irritate the skin. FACT: Scientific studies show that some chemicals used in […]

17
Mar

How heat dehydration and pollution are impacting kidney health in India

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
5 min read

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is emerging as a major public health concern in India, with research showing a steady rise in its prevalence over the past decade. A review published in the journal Kidney International Reports estimates that nearly 13% of the Indian population may be affected by CKD, placing a significant burden on the country’s healthcare system […]

16
Mar

From polio victory to TB fight: First Check champions India’s public health mission

Dr Sabba Mehmood / 6 months
0
3 min read

The journey of First Check is rooted in a strong belief in the power of credible and timely information. In public health, access to accurate, evidence-based information is essential to protect lives, guide communities, and strengthen health systems. First Check supports this effort by verifying online claims, debunking unscientific narratives, and expanding access to […]

16
Mar

FACT CHECK: Does sugar affect children’s mood and behaviour?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Children who consume sugar and processed foods such as cakes, bread, ice cream and chocolates become restless, stubborn and prone to anger due to unhealthy gut bacteria. Eliminating sugar, packaged foods, and adopting practices like fasting and early dinners can improve their gut health, mood and overall mental well-being. FACT: False. Scientific evidence […]

13
Mar

India’s top court allows withdrawal of life support for man in decade-long vegetative state

First Check Team / 6 months
0
3 min read

In a landmark ruling, India’s Supreme Court has permitted the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment for a 31-year-old man who has remained in a vegetative state for more than a decade, marking the first court-approved instance of passive euthanasia in the country. The case relates to Harish Rana, who suffered severe head injuries after falling from […]

13
Mar

FACT CHECK: Does creatine cause hair loss?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Creatine does not cause hair loss. There is no solid scientific evidence proving a direct link between creatine supplementation and baldness. FACT: There is no strong scientific evidence that creatine causes hair loss, and recent clinical research has found no significant impact on DHT levels or hair growth. However, individuals should consult a healthcare […]

13
Mar

Cancer breakthrough: New immune therapy destroys tumours without wrecking the immune system

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
4 min read

A new type of immune cell therapy has wiped out cancer in mice without damaging the rest of the immune system, a long-standing problem with today’s CAR-T treatments, and may also open the door to safer therapies for autoimmune diseases such as lupus. The research, published in Science Translational Medicine, describes a next-generation CAR-T therapy that […]

13
Mar

India has the world’s second-highest CKD burden: Early kidney disease signs you shouldn’t ignore

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
4 min read

Chronic kidney disease is emerging as a major public health concern worldwide, with India carrying a particularly heavy burden. A recent Lancet study estimates that India now has the second-highest number of people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) globally. In 2023, around 13.8 crore Indians were affected by the condition, second only to China’s 15.2 crore cases. The global […]

11
Mar

Organ transplants rise fourfold to nearly 20,000 in 2025, but demand–supply gap persists

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
6 min read

Organ transplants in India have risen nearly fourfold over the past decade, climbing from fewer than 5,000 procedures in 2013 to almost 20,000 in 2025, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Sunday. Citing data from the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), the ministry described the surge as a significant milestone […]

10
Mar

Is the doctor on Raj Shamani’s podcast right about plastic bottle and nail polish cancer claims?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Drinking water from plastic bottles is “poison” and can cause cancer. Using nail polish and artificial nails, especially while eating food with them on, can also lead to cancer. FACT: There is no reliable scientific evidence that drinking water from plastic bottles or using nail polish and artificial nails causes cancer under normal, real-world […]

10
Mar

Long Covid’s long shadow: The infection linked to rising depression and anxiety years later

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
6 min read

The mental health effects of Long COVID may last far longer than many people realise — in some cases, up to three years after the initial infection, a major new study has found. The research, published in BMC Public Health, followed adults in Michigan who had PCR-confirmed COVID-19 and tracked their mental health over nearly three years. […]

08
Mar

FACT CHECK: Can low Vitamin D and B12 make you depressed?

admin / 6 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Low levels of Vitamin D and Vitamin B12 mean a person is “100 per cent depressed,” even if they are unaware of it. Nearly all patients with depression have deficiencies in these vitamins, and correcting them is essential. FACT: Low levels of Vitamin D and Vitamin B12 have been associated with higher rates of depressive symptoms in several […]

08
Mar

FACT CHECK: Does burnt roti lead to cancer due to Acrylamide?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Burnt roti, phulka, or any charred food releases acrylamide, a carcinogenic chemical. Regularly eating burnt rotis made on gas or griddles can increase the risk of cancer. FACT: False. Acrylamide forms naturally when starchy foods like roti or bread are cooked at high temperatures and browned, and it is classified as a probable carcinogen based mainly on animal […]

08
Mar

‘Start by knowing your normal,’ says Dr Haridas P. Mani on breast cancer awareness

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
4 min read

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death globally, and women bear a significant share of the burden. According to the World Cancer Research Fund (2022), an estimated 96.65 lakh new cancer cases were diagnosed among women worldwide, with 7.22 lakh cases reported in India. According to the India Fact Sheet (GLOBOCAN 2022), breast cancer is the most […]

08
Mar

FACT CHECK: Should babies be given tea? Does feeding only milk after 6 months lead to anaemia?

Sakshi Srivastava / 6 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Giving tea to babies and continuing to feed only milk after six months can harm their health. Tea may block iron absorption and lead to anaemia, while milk alone is not enough to meet a growing baby’s nutritional needs. FACT: Research indicates that tea can interfere with iron absorption and may increase the risk of iron […]

08
Mar

How owning a dog could boost your heart and brain health

First Check Team / 6 months
0
7 min read

Muzamil Hilal, 26, from Rawalpora in Srinagar, has had a dog and a cat for several years now. He says they have made a “world of difference” to his family’s life. “It is like raising children at home. They cheer you up all day long,” says Hilal. “My mother used to feel quite depressed earlier, […]

03
Mar

FACT CHECK: Does endless scrolling damage your eyesight?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Watching reels for long hours puts the eye in a constant “near vision” mode, leading to strain and potentially causing or worsening myopia (minus power). FACT: Current evidence suggests that prolonged screen time may increase the risk of developing and worsening myopia in children, particularly with limited outdoor activity. Experts add that in […]

03
Mar

FACT CHECK: Does drinking tea in paper cups pose health risks?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Drinking hot tea or coffee in disposable paper cups releases thousands of microplastic particles into the body because the inner plastic lining melts on contact with heat. These microplastics can cause cancer and increase the risk of pancreatic disease, making paper cups unsafe for consumption. FACT: Partially true. Plastic-lined paper cups can release microplastic particles […]

03
Mar

Proximity to nuclear plants linked to higher cancer mortality: Harvard study

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
7 min read

US counties located closer to operational nuclear power plants (NPPs) have recorded higher cancer mortality rates than those farther away, according to a new nationwide study led by researchers at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Published on February 23 in Nature Communications, the study is the first in the 21st century to assess […]

03
Mar

The psychology behind ‘Punch’; What science says about abandonment and stress in Japanese Macaques

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
8 min read

You must have watched heartwarming videos of baby monkey Punch on social media – clips of him clinging tightly to a stuffed orange orangutan, wandering alone, and at times being chased by older monkeys. What began as a few short clips soon became a collective emotional response online, with viewers projecting their own stories of rejection […]

27
Feb

Board Exams 2026: Experts share smart stress survival tips to boost your performance

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
5 min read

Exam season is here, whether it’s Class 10, Class 12 board exams or any other competitive test, and with revision schedules tightening, stress levels are rising too. In these crucial months, students often find themselves caught in a cycle of anxiety, sleepless nights, and constant pressure to perform. While we often tend to ignore it, […]

26
Feb

FACT CHECK: Does eating fish improve your heart and mental health?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Eating fish regularly reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, chronic inflammation and depression due to its Omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein content. Consuming fish two to three times a week improves heart, joint, thyroid and overall mental health. FACT: Regular fish consumption is associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease and cardiovascular mortality, likely due to omega-3 […]

26
Feb

Struggling with blood sugar? Your body may thank you for consuming THIS vegetable

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Peas are extremely nutrient-dense and provide significant amounts of fibre, protein, vitamins, and antioxidants despite their small size. Consuming peas regularly, whether fresh or frozen, can support overall health, including digestion, immunity, and eye health. FACT: Scientific evidence shows that green peas are a nutrient-dense food rich in fibre, plant-based protein, vitamins, and antioxidants, which support […]

25
Feb

How a 52-year-old UK woman lost her limbs after a ‘harmless’ dog lick caused sepsis | Explained

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
8 min read

Manjit Sangha, a 52-year-old woman from the United Kingdom, never imagined that an ordinary evening playing with her pet dog could change her life forever. What appeared to be an innocent lick on a small cut or scratch is believed to have triggered a severe infection that rapidly progressed to sepsis. Within days, Sangha was fighting for […]

24
Feb

Govt to roll out free single-dose HPV vaccination for 14-year-old girls

First Check Team / 7 months
0
3 min read

The Union government is set to launch a nationwide human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination drive offering a free single dose of Gardasil to 14-year-old girls in a major push to reduce cervical cancer in India. The special campaign, which will not be part of the Universal Immunisation Programme, aims to immunise girls at an age when […]

24
Feb

Pushing the physiological limits: What an 81-year-old ultramarathoner reveals about ageing and endurance

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
8 min read

For decades, ageing has been widely associated with inevitable physical decline. Muscle strength weakens, endurance drops, and recovery slows. This narrative has shaped not only medical understanding but also societal expectations, that physical performance after 70 or 80 is defined largely by limitation rather than capability. Even among healthy individuals, reduced aerobic capacity and cardiovascular […]

23
Feb

Ever wondered how cutting your TV time could reduce depression risk by up to 43%?

First Check Team / 7 months
0
7 min read

Television has long been part of everyday life, and conversations around excessive TV use have often focused on its effects on eyesight, sleep quality, and brain health. From warnings about eye strain to concerns about sedentary lifestyles, the risks of spending too much time in front of screens are well recognised. However, emerging research now suggests that […]

23
Feb

FACT CHECK: Are lean babies less healthy than chubby babies?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: A baby’s health cannot be judged by whether they are lean or chubby. As long as the child is active, meeting developmental milestones on time, and growing according to the growth chart, body size alone does not determine health. FACT: True. There is no scientific evidence that chubby babies are healthier than lean babies. A baby’s health […]

18
Feb

FACT CHECK: Are the Crocs you are wearing not that great for you?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Wearing Crocs regularly for long hours can harm your feet because they lack proper arch support and heel stability. Prolonged use may lead to foot strain, heel pain, and tendon-related problems, especially in people who stand or walk a lot. FACT: True. Crocs (clogs) can be comfortable for short, low-impact use but may […]

18
Feb

FACT CHECK: Should you worry if your child snores regularly?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Routine snoring in children is not normal and may indicate an underlying airway obstruction such as enlarged tonsils, adenoids, allergies, or obesity. Persistent snoring can affect sleep quality, behaviour, and overall health, and may require medical evaluation. FACT: Scientific evidence shows that while occasional snoring in children can be normal, habitual or regular […]

17
Feb

ICMR launches AI surveillance tool to strengthen pandemic preparedness

First Check Team / 7 months
0
2 min read

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has rolled out an artificial intelligence-driven surveillance system under the National One Health Mission, aimed at predicting and detecting potential pandemics before they escalate. The new tool is designed to shift India’s public health approach from reactive outbreak management to predictive surveillance. By analysing genomic data, regional disease […]

17
Feb

FACT CHECK: Is clinginess in babies normal, or a sign of concern?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Clinginess in babies after the first year is a normal developmental phase and reflects secure emotional attachment, not a behavioural problem. It indicates healthy psychological and emotional development rather than dependency or weakness. FACT: True. Clinginess in babies is a normal part of emotional and psychological development and reflects secure attachment and healthy […]

17
Feb

Economic Survey 2025–26 flags rising obesity, diabetes and digital addiction in India

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
7 min read

Rising obesity, diabetes, mental health problems and digital addiction are emerging as major public health challenges in India, the Economic Survey 2025–26 has warned, even as the country records steady gains in maternal and child healthcare outcomes. The Survey flags lifestyle diseases and behavioural health risks as growing threats to long-term wellbeing and workforce productivity. Presented in Parliament on […]

16
Feb

Two injections a year for blood pressure? Lancet review signals major shift in hypertension care

First Check Team / 7 months
0
4 min read

A new review published in The Lancet has signalled what could become a major shift in the treatment of high blood pressure, including the possibility of long-acting therapies that may require as few as two injections a year. The review underlines a stark reality: “Despite the availability of effective antihypertensive therapies, global blood pressure control […]

16
Feb

Can eating chicken spread bird flu? Experts bust 5 common myths

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
3 min read

The outbreak of bird flu in neighbouring Tamil Nadu has raised concerns in Andhra Pradesh, prompting authorities to step up surveillance to prevent a possible spread of the virus. The alert comes after avian influenza was confirmed in dead crows in Chennai, with health officials issuing advisories and strengthening monitoring measures across bordering regions. While such alerts are precautionary, outbreaks […]

16
Feb

Stop believing these cancer myths before it’s too late

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
3 min read

Cancer remains one of the world’s biggest health challenges. In 2020 alone, nearly 1 crore people died due to cancer, with breast, lung, colorectal, prostate and stomach cancers among the most commonly diagnosed. Every year, around 4 lakh children develop cancer, and in 23 countries, cervical cancer remains the most common cancer among women. Yet, despite rising numbers, misinformation continues to shape […]

14
Feb

A new study suggests that when you train your body, you are also training your brain

First Check Team / 7 months
0
4 min read

Research published in Neuron shows that repeated exercise rewires specific neurons in the brain, and that this rewiring is essential for improving endurance over time. The work helps explain why running or cycling gets easier with practice — not just because muscles adapt, but because the brain changes too. The study, titled “Exercise-induced activation of […]

13
Feb

FACT CHECK: Are all rashes in babies a sign of chickenpox?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: Most rashes in babies and young children are being wrongly labelled as chickenpox (‘mata’), leading to unnecessary panic and the spread of unscientific practices related to bathing, food, and maternal behaviour. Many of these rashes are actually common viral or allergic skin reactions and not chickenpox. FACT: True. Most baby rashes are caused by viral infections, skin […]

12
Feb

FACT CHECK: Are myths causing women to consume less protein than they actually need?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: Women need the same amount of protein per kilogram of body weight as men, and may sometimes require even more due to physiological factors like the menstrual cycle and recovery needs. Despite this, many women consume less protein because of myths that it causes bulkiness or harms health. FACT: Protein requirements are not based on gender. […]

12
Feb

Building a Healthier India with AI HOIAI2026

Dr. Sabba Mehmood / 7 months
0
4 min read

The journey of First Check has always been rooted in a single, unwavering pursuit: the power of credible information. After a transformative 2025, marked by our content partnership with THE WEEK and an expanding network of verified health resources, we entered 2026 with a vision to move from conversation to high-impact action. On January […]

12
Feb

Can you feed while sick? Debunking 5 common breastfeeding myths

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
6 min read

Becoming a mother is overwhelming, beautiful, and exhausting – all at once. If you’ve clicked on this article, know this first: you are not alone, and your concerns deserve to be heard. From relatives and neighbours to social media “experts” and viral reels, new mothers are constantly bombarded with advice about what they should or […]

12
Feb

FACT CHECK: Think household chores are enough to stay fit? You might be wrong

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Household chores by themselves are not sufficient to meet daily fitness needs. Relying only on kitchen work or routine domestic activity as exercise can be misleading, and dedicated physical activity of at least 30 minutes a day is necessary to maintain health and reduce the risk of lifestyle diseases. FACT: Household chores do burn calories and […]

11
Feb

FACT CHECK: Is there a ‘right age’ to pierce a baby’s ears?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Ear piercing is safest for babies between 2 and 6 months of age, preferably after the first vaccination, and doing it earlier or without proper hygiene can increase the risk of infection and complications. FACT: There is no single ‘right age’ to pierce a baby’s ears, but medical experts advise caution. Some medical journals […]

11
Feb

FACT CHECK: Is one watery eye in babies normal, and can you really ‘stretch’ a baby’s neck?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
10 min read

#CLAIM 1: Persistent watering from one eye in babies is commonly caused by a blocked tear duct (nasolacrimal duct) and is usually harmless. Regular Crigler massage can help open the duct, and most cases resolve on their own within the first year of life without the need for medical intervention. FACT 1: True. One-sided watery […]

11
Feb

Aditi Rao Hydari, Sidhu and Archana Puran Singh praise desi ghee for fitness — What does science say?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Celebrities suggest that consuming desi ghee, even in generous amounts, does not lead to weight gain and may help the body burn fat when eaten in the morning. FACT: False. Scientific studies highlight mixed effects of ghee on health, showing both potential benefits and possible cardiovascular risks depending on intake and individual response. While small […]

10
Feb

Is hyaluronic acid gel the next breakthrough in gynaecological cancer treatment?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
7 min read

A new study published in the ‘Journal of Medical Radiation Sciences’ has found that stabilised hyaluronic acid (sHA) gel can be safely and effectively used as a rectal spacer during radiation treatment for gynaecological cancers. Conducted by clinician-researchers from Austin Health in Australia, the research is the “first” to test this technique in women undergoing MRI-guided […]

10
Feb

FACT CHECK: Is it necessary to remove baby’s hair with ‘atta loi’ and other methods?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Traditional practices like rubbing ‘atta loi’ or turmeric on a newborn’s skin to remove fine body hair are harmful, unnecessary, and can lead to skin damage and infections, as baby hair naturally sheds on its own. FACT: Lanugo is a normal, temporary type of fine hair in newborns that naturally sheds on its own within weeks or […]

10
Feb

FACT CHECK: Does applying ghee on roti lower the risk of diabetes?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Eating roti with ghee prevents blood sugar spikes and lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes, while eating dry roti increases diabetes risk. FACT: There is no scientific evidence that adding ghee to roti prevents diabetes. Experts explain that while fat may slightly slow digestion and reduce the immediate blood sugar spike, the total […]

09
Feb

How is AI addressing gaps in mental healthcare in India?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
10 min read

Mental health is more than the absence of mental disorders; it is a state of well-being that enables people to cope with life’s stresses, realise their abilities, and participate meaningfully in society. Yet in India, mental health remains a largely neglected dimension of healthcare. Approximately 15% of adults experience mental health issues requiring professional intervention, but awareness, access, and […]

09
Feb

Care on wheels: How India joined the global frontline of emergency stroke treatment

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
7 min read

Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability in India, placing a massive burden on families and the healthcare system. In a stroke, every minute matters; nearly 1.9 billion brain cells are lost every minute when treatment is delayed. Timely care within the “golden hour” can significantly reduce mortality and prevent lifelong […]

06
Feb

FACT CHECK: Can you fall ill if you have curd during the winter?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Consuming curd in winter does not cause colds or coughs and is safe to eat during colder months. FACT: True. Consuming curd in winter is safe for most people and does not cause colds or respiratory infections. Scientific studies show that probiotic fermented dairy products may actually help reduce the duration and risk of upper […]

06
Feb

Leprosy in India: How it spreads and why children are still at risk

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
11 min read

Leprosy, a chronic infectious disease and one of the world’s oldest known illnesses, is now fully curable but continues to affect thousands of people every year, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Globally, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 188 countries, areas and territories reported leprosy data in 2024, accounting for 1.72 lakh new cases. Of […]

06
Feb

Why one in two pregnancies in India is high-risk | Explained

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
7 min read

An analysis by researchers from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Mumbai, has found a startling reality – nearly half of all pregnancies in India can now be classified as high-risk. The findings, drawn from the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5), shed light on […]

05
Feb

FACT CHECK: Can drinking too much water also be harmful?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Forcing excessive water intake is unhealthy and misleading, as hydration needs vary by individual, and drinking too much water at once can increase the risk of water intoxication and electrolyte imbalance. FACT: Drinking excessive amounts of water, especially over a short period, can be harmful and may lead to dilutional hyponatremia (water intoxication). Experts suggest […]

05
Feb

If you have been sleeping with the lights on, your heart could be paying the price

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
6 min read

By the time you are reading this, you must be aware deep inside how important sleep is for health. Sleep is not just a period of rest; it is a vital biological process that allows the body to repair itself, regulate hormones, and restore energy. For many, sleep is like a see-saw; some struggle to […]

05
Feb

Fact Check: Does excessive drooling mean your baby is sick?

Sakshi Srivastava / 7 months
0
4 min read

CLAIM: Excessive drooling in babies is a normal part of growth and development and should not be mistaken for illness, stomach worms, or problems related to the mother’s diet or pregnancy. FACT: True. Drooling in babies is a normal developmental process that usually begins around 3–4 months and may continue up to two years due […]

04
Feb

India bears the world’s second-highest economic burden of diabetes; Why it matters | Explained

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
11 min read

India faces the second-highest economic burden due to diabetes, estimated at USD 16.5 trillion, a new global study has found, second only to the United States at USD 11.4 trillion, and ahead of China at USD 11 trillion—with informal care costs contributing significantly to the burden. The estimate captures the cumulative economic shock of a chronic […]

04
Feb

FACT CHECK: Does ghee help reduce inflammation?

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Eating one teaspoon of ghee daily on an empty stomach can reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and support hormone balance. FACT: Ghee contains bioactive components like butyric acid and other fatty acids that may support gut health and have anti-inflammatory effects, but most evidence comes from animal studies and mechanistic research. There is no strong human clinical […]

04
Feb

AI in health care needs direction, not just speed

Deepak Kumar Gautam / 8 months
0
8 min read

Technology has a role in advancing humanity, extending from improving lives, reducing suffering, and the well-being of humans. Each major leap of technology, from antibiotics to medical imaging to telemedicine, has transformed health care. India’s health care system is now navigating such a decisive journey in the context of Artificial Intelligence (AI). With over 1.4 billion […]

03
Feb

From diagnostics to policy: How AI is transforming healthcare in India

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
10 min read

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries worldwide, and healthcare in India is no exception. From AI-driven cancer screening solutions to advanced diagnostic tools for infectious diseases, India is increasingly leveraging AI to make healthcare more accessible, efficient, and precise. The technology can help health practitioners make better decisions, enabling early detection and supporting timely interventions, especially in resource-constrained and […]

03
Feb

FACT CHECK: Are you hurting your baby by massaging too hard?

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Forceful or aggressive baby massages, including hard strokes, nose pressing, and rubbing the chest to “clean” white milk discharge, are harmful and do not make babies stronger. FACT: True. Experts suggest that infant massage is safe and beneficial only when done gently with light pressure, safe oils, and proper technique, supporting circulation, digestion, sleep, […]

02
Feb

Can physical activity in adolescence lower breast cancer risk?

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
8 min read

A new study has found that regular physical activity during adolescence may play a protective role in reducing biological indicators linked to breast cancer risk later in life. Researchers suggest that engaging in recreational physical activity during the crucial years of breast development can influence breast tissue composition and lower markers of physiological stress, both of […]

02
Feb

Mental health gets focus in Budget 2026 as Sitharaman announces NIMHANS 2.0

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
2 min read

Mental healthcare received a policy mention in the Union Budget 2026–27, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announcing a second National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) campus in North India. Presenting the budget in Parliament, Sitharaman said the move was necessitated by the lack of adequate mental health institutions in the northern region […]

30
Jan

FACT CHECK: Can sleeping in cold AC at night affect liver recovery?

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: Sleeping in a cold AC can slow down the liver’s detox and repair processes at night, affecting recovery and overall health. FACT: False. There is currently no human scientific evidence proving that sleeping in a cold, air-conditioned room disrupts liver detoxification or recovery. Research linking cold exposure to liver stress is largely based on limited animal […]

30
Jan

FACT CHECK: Can running without preparation harm your knees?

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: Random, unstructured running, especially without adequate strength and mobility training, can place excessive stress on the knees and lead to knee pain or injury, rather than improving joint health. FACT: Scientific evidence suggests that running itself does not damage the knees, but inadequate preparation, such as muscle imbalances, poor form, or sudden increases in […]

29
Jan

Menopause linked to brain changes in memory and emotional regulation regions: Study

First Check Team / 8 months
0
4 min read

A major UK study analysing data from nearly 125,000 women has found that menopause is associated with measurable changes in brain regions critical for memory, spatial navigation and emotional regulation, the same areas that are affected early in Alzheimer’s disease. The research, published this week in Psychological Medicine by Cambridge University Press, examined mental health, […]

29
Jan

Why India now ranks among the world’s top 3 for fatty liver disease | Explained

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
9 min read

India is witnessing a silent but alarming rise in fatty liver disease, now placing the country among the world’s top three most affected nations. A recent global study published in the ‘Journal of the American Medical Association’ reveals that metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), also known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, has become the most common chronic liver […]

27
Jan

Can fish oil reduce heart complications in dialysis patients?

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
7 min read

A new study published in ‘The New England Journal of Medicine’ has found that taking a daily fish oil supplement can significantly reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular complications in people undergoing hemodialysis for kidney failure. The results are particularly significant given that cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death among people with kidney failure. Chronic kidney disease affects […]

27
Jan

FACT CHECK: Is the viral strawberry–dark chocolate combo good for your periods?

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: The strawberry–dark chocolate combination is a healthy period snack that can help reduce inflammation and menstrual cramps, improve mood, curb sugar cravings, support digestion, and ease bloating during menstruation. FACT: Scientific evidence suggests that strawberries and dark chocolate contain nutrients—like antioxidants, vitamin C, and magnesium- that may help reduce inflammation, support mood, and relax muscles during […]

23
Jan

AI key to solving India’s healthcare scale and equity challenge, say experts at SKIMS pre-summit

First Check Team / 8 months
0
5 min read

Artificial intelligence has moved from being a futuristic concept to an indispensable tool for addressing India’s deep-rooted healthcare challenges of scale, access and equity, experts said at the Official Pre-Summit of the India AI Impact Summit 2026, hosted by the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) in Srinagar on Thursday. Setting the tone for the […]

21
Jan

FACT CHECK: Can sleeping late on weekends do more harm than good?

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Sleeping late on weekends can negatively affect your mood, weight, and overall health by disrupting your body’s internal clock. FACT: While extra sleep may temporarily reduce tiredness, large shifts in sleep timing can disrupt the body’s internal clock, a phenomenon known as social jet lag, which has been linked to mood changes, weight […]

21
Jan

Explained: Are monkey bites a public health emergency in India?

First Check Team / 8 months
0
6 min read

Monkey attacks are no longer isolated incidents confined to forest fringes or temple towns. Across India’s cities, encounters with the aggressive animals have become a daily public safety concern, causing injuries and even deaths. A couple of months back, in Gujarat’s Gomtipur at least 12 people were bitten by monkeys in five days. Early last […]

21
Jan

NIMHANS trains parents to tackle child technology addiction

First Check Team / 8 months
0
2 min read

As concerns grow over children’s excessive dependence on mobile phones, online games and social media, Bengaluru-based NIMHANS has launched a structured, community-based programme to help parents manage what experts increasingly describe as technology addiction. The initiative is being run through NIMHANS’s SHUT Clinic (Service for Healthy Use of Technology) in collaboration with the NIMHANS Centre […]

20
Jan

India doesn’t know the causes of 4 out of every 5 deaths; ICMR study reveals

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
6 min read

A study by the Indian Council of Medical Research has found that India still lacks reliable information on the medical causes behind most deaths, raising serious concerns about health planning, disease surveillance, and policy priorities. The findings, published in the journal Scientific Reports, show that despite improvements in death registration, only a small proportion of deaths […]

20
Jan

FACT CHECK: Are packaged soups as healthy as you think?

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Packaged soup premixes are not truly healthy as they contain very little real vegetables, excessive sodium and unnecessary additives, making them unsuitable for regular consumption compared to homemade soups. FACT: True. While soups made with fresh vegetables, broths, and legumes are highly nutritious, packaged, canned, or cream-based soups often contain high sodium, additives, and sometimes contaminants, making them less healthy for regular consumption compared to homemade […]

19
Jan

How maternal stress during pregnancy alters fetal brain development

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
7 min read

Stress during pregnancy, triggered by immune activation, infections, or changes in gut health, may have lasting effects on a child’s brain development, increasing the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders later in life. A new genetic study in mice, published in Nature Neuroscience, sheds light on this process at a molecular level by mapping the neuroimmune environment of […]

19
Jan

Low tax on sugary drinks and alcohol fuels health risks, WHO warns

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
7 min read

Sugary drinks and alcoholic beverages are becoming cheaper across much of the world, and the World Health Organisation (WHO) warns that this trend is already fuelling a surge in obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancer and injury-related deaths, particularly among children and young adults. In two new global reports released this week, the WHO has urged governments to strengthen taxes on […]

16
Jan

A new year, a bigger and better Health of India Summit

Mariyam Alavi / 8 months
0
3 min read

Happy New Year to all our First Check readers!!! The last year was all about growth, collaborations, and innovations for First Check. From the continued content sharing partnership with THE WEEK, where one can read First Check’s verified and credible health-related articles on THE WEEK’s website, to becoming a member of the Trusted […]

16
Jan

FACT CHECK: Is kajal safe for babies’ eyes? Doctors break down the science of lead and infection

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Applying kajal to children’s eyes is dangerous, offers no health benefit, and can harm vision by causing allergies and eye infections. FACT: Kajal, kohl, or surma can contain high levels of lead and other toxic metals, which may cause eye irritation, infections, and systemic lead poisoning in infants. Scientific studies and health authorities like the FDA […]

16
Jan

Why WHO is applauding India’s big move to go mercury-free in health care

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
6 min read

Recently, WHO hailed India’s efforts to phase out mercury from medical devices, calling it a critical step toward safer healthcare systems and healthier communities. Mercury, long used in medical devices, is highly toxic and is classified by the World Health Organisation as one of the top ten chemicals of major public health concern for its harmful effects on the brain, nervous system, […]

14
Jan

How intense workouts signal the bloodstream to suppress colorectal cancer genes

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
8 min read

A new study published in the International Journal of Cancer has found that even brief bouts of intense physical activity can trigger molecular changes in the body that may help suppress the growth of colorectal cancer cells and accelerate DNA repair mechanisms. Researchers from Newcastle University in the UK report that just 10 minutes of high-intensity exercise can alter the […]

14
Jan

FACT CHECK: Are bleeding gums linked to heart disease and diabetes?

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: Bleeding gums are not just a dental issue but can increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes due to long-term inflammation and bacterial spread through the bloodstream. FACT: Bleeding gums, a sign of periodontal disease, are linked to poorer blood sugar control in diabetes and a higher risk of heart disease and […]

14
Jan

Can smoking REALLY cause early cataracts? What experts say after BeerBiceps’ viral reel

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing cataracts at an early age. An unhealthy lifestyle, along with factors such as excessive sun exposure, diabetes, and genetic predisposition, can accelerate early-onset cataracts, especially among younger people. FACT: Smoking is a well-established risk factor for cataracts in general, but current scientific evidence does not conclusively prove […]

14
Jan

Is climate change fueling the spread of the ‘brain-eating amoeba’? Study reveals

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
11 min read

A new perspective study published in the journal ‘Biocontaminant’ has flagged a growing but largely overlooked global health threat, free-living amoebae, a group of microscopic organisms that thrive in soil and water and, in rare cases, can cause fatal infections in humans. Scientists warn that climate change, ageing water infrastructure, and gaps in surveillance systems are creating conditions […]

12
Jan

FACT CHECK: Does alcohol really keep you warm during winters?

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Alcohol does not truly keep the body warm; the warmth felt is temporary, and drinking alcohol can actually lower core body temperature. FACT: Alcohol does not keep the body warm. Scientific studies and medical experts show that alcohol disrupts normal temperature regulation and increases the risk of hypothermia, especially in cold conditions. In a viral Instagram reel posted by dietician Bhawesh […]

11
Jan

Human eggs ‘rejuvenated’ in breakthrough that could improve IVF success rates: report

First Check Team / 8 months
0
4 min read

Scientists have claimed to have “rejuvenated” human eggs for the first time, a development that could significantly improve IVF success rates for older women, according to research reported by The Guardian. The study suggests that age-related defects in eggs — a major cause of IVF failure and miscarriage — can be reduced by supplementing eggs […]

09
Jan

Typhoid explained: How Salmonella Typhi spreads and why children are most vulnerables

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
8 min read

Typhoid, a life-threatening but preventable infection, remains a serious public health challenge, silently affecting millions every year and disproportionately hospitalising children. In India, nearly 47 lakh typhoid cases were recorded in 2023, with about 7,400 reported deaths. In fact, the current situation in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, has once again drawn attention to this persistent disease. Due to leakage in […]

09
Jan

FACT CHECK: Does hair turn white earlier in vegetarians than in non-vegetarians?

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Premature greying of hair is linked to diet, with vegetarians being more prone to early greying due to vitamin B12 deficiency that affects melanin production and hair pigmentation. FACT: False. While low vitamin B12 levels have been associated with premature greying of hair, there is no conclusive evidence that vegetarians turn grey earlier than […]

09
Jan

Zomato founder Deepinder Goyal’s ‘Temple’ device is the talk of the town— but does it work?

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
9 min read

Most of us were left wondering about one particular detail while listening to Zomato founder Deepinder Goyal speak about gig workers, entrepreneurship and building scale on Raj Shamani’s YouTube podcast – what was that tiny metallic-looking device stuck to his temple? As the podcast clips spread across social media, the device became a distraction of […]

08
Jan

FACT CHECK: Does green tea really help with weight loss?

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: The amount of catechins in a single cup of green tea is too low to cause meaningful weight loss, with studies showing only modest effects at much higher doses. Consuming green tea in excess to achieve such doses may pose health risks rather than benefits. FACT: True. Experts caution that relying on green tea […]

08
Jan

Can anxiety and insomnia weaken the immune system?

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
5 min read

Remember the times when people taunt you for not sleeping properly or casually label you an “insomniac,” or tell you to “calm down” when you seem anxious? What is often brushed off as a lifestyle issue or mood fluctuation may have deeper health consequences. A new study published in ‘Frontiers in Immunology’ has found that both […]

08
Jan

FACT CHECK: Are bluish-grey spots on babies normal?

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Bluish-grey spots seen on a baby’s skin, especially on the back or buttocks, are a normal birthmark known as a Mongolian spot. These marks are harmless, require no treatment, and usually fade on their own as the child grows. FACT: True. Bluish-grey or black marks seen on newborns are commonly dermal melanocytosis (also known as […]

08
Jan

India bets on AI to expand its public healthcare mission

Riyaz Wani / 8 months
0
5 min read

Artificial intelligence is no longer an abstract promise in India’s healthcare system; it is now a structural tool being built into public health delivery, especially for a country whose size and population demand solutions that can scale quickly, reliably and affordably. What makes India’s approach notable is not technological ambition alone, but the decision to […]

07
Jan

Flu vaccines don’t work? Experts push back hard on Dr Oz’s viral remarks

First Check Team / 8 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: Dr Mehmet Oz, administrator of the US Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, questioned the effectiveness of seasonal flu vaccines, calling them “controversial” and suggesting that lifestyle measures such as sunlight, supplements, exercise, and sleep can help the body “overwhelm” influenza instead of relying on vaccination. FACT: Scientific evidence from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention […]

06
Jan

IBD explained: How missing ‘good’ gut bacteria could spark Crohn’s and colitis

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
10 min read

People often complain of recurring stomach pain, frequent diarrhoea, unexplained weight loss or constant fatigue, brushing these symptoms aside as ‘gas’, food intolerance, or stress. But for many, these early signs mark the onset of a far more serious condition. A new international study has now found that the loss of beneficial gut bacteria may play a […]

06
Jan

Why colorectal cancer is rising in people under 50: Scientists find a new clue

Sakshi Srivastava / 8 months
0
9 min read

A new study conducted by researchers from the University of Texas at Dallas and UT Southwestern Medical Centre has found that increased stiffness of the colon, driven largely by chronic inflammation and tissue scarring, may raise the risk of developing early-onset colorectal cancer (CRC). Colorectal cancers that occur after the age of 50 and are not linked to […]

05
Jan

FACT CHECK: Can sweet potatoes help manage cholesterol, diabetes, and constipation?

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Sweet potatoes are rich in fibre, antioxidants, and beta-carotene, which may help support healthy cholesterol, blood sugar, and digestion when eaten with the skin and paired with a source of fat. Boiling and refrigerating them can lower their glycemic index, making them safer for people with diabetes. FACT: Sweet potatoes are rich in fibre and resistant […]

05
Jan

Are your ‘sugar-free’ habits secretly harming your liver? New study flags concerns

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
7 min read

A recent study found that artificial sweeteners, including sugar alcohols like sorbitol, may not be as harmless as previously thought. Published in Science Signaling, the research highlights how these sugar substitutes can affect liver metabolism and contribute to steatotic liver disease, raising concerns about their widespread use. Considering that artificial sweeteners are often perceived as healthier alternatives to sugar, […]

05
Jan

These 6 depression symptoms in midlife could raise dementia risk by nearly 50%

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
9 min read

A new study published in The Lancet Psychiatry identifies six specific depressive symptoms that, when experienced in midlife, are linked to a substantially higher risk of developing dementia later in life, with symptoms associated with nearly a 50 per cent increase in risk. These symptoms range from losing your self-confidence and not feeling warmth or affection for others to feeling stressed all the time […]

04
Jan

Fact Check: Are puffy eyes an early sign of Nephrotic Syndrome in kids?

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Puffiness around a child’s eyes, especially when it is more noticeable in the morning, can be an early warning sign of kidney disease, such as nephrotic syndrome. Early recognition of this symptom can help in timely diagnosis and treatment. FACT: True. Persistent morning puffiness around a child’s eyes can be an early sign of nephrotic syndrome, […]

02
Jan

HPV vaccine cuts precancer risk by over 50 per cent when given early, study finds

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
8 min read

Despite persistent misinformation and vaccine hesitancy, a new study published in JAMA Oncology has revealed that the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine can significantly reduce the risk of precancerous lesions of the vulva and vagina in girls and women. The study showed that women who received at least one dose of the quadrivalent HPV vaccine had a 37 per […]

02
Jan

Uterine fibroids may raise heart disease risk by over 80 per cent: What every woman needs to know

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
11 min read

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association has found that women with uterine fibroids have an over 80 per cent higher risk of developing long-term heart disease compared to those without the condition. Considering that uterine fibroids affect 20–30 per cent of women, with up to 77 per cent developing them at […]

02
Jan

‘People think you can’t live normally’: This schizophrenia survivor proves otherwise

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
11 min read

On a foggy winter morning in Delhi, 33-year-old Sumit* steps out of his home in the capital, ready for another day at a reputed national bank office where he now works in customer support. The air is crisp, the sun is slow to rise, and the city is still shaking off the cold. Before he […]

02
Jan

FACT CHECK: Can ayurveda really cure cancer? What science actually says

First Check Team / 9 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: A widely viewed YouTube video claims that cancer, including throat cancer, can be cured solely through ayurvedic treatment if “proper procedures” are followed. The video features anecdotal testimonies from individuals who say they recovered from cancer after taking ayurvedic medicines and questions the need for allopathic treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation. FACT: The claim that […]

01
Jan

Can ozempic LOWER epilepsy risk? New study finds surprising link in diabetes patients

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
8 min read

A new study published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, has found a potential link between the use of GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs and a lower risk of developing epilepsy among people with type 2 diabetes. The findings suggest that people using these glucose-lowering medications, including semaglutide, which is sold under the brand […]

01
Jan

Fact check: Is the one meal a day diet a safe strategy for weight loss?

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: The one-meal-a-day (OMAD) diet is unsafe, impractical, and not backed by strong scientific evidence for sustainable weight loss. It can lead to nutrient deficiencies, low energy levels, hypoglycaemia, especially in people with diabetes, and may increase long-term cardiovascular and overall mortality risk, while weight change ultimately depends on total calorie intake rather than meal frequency. FACT: […]

29
Dec

FACT CHECK: Can rabies REALLY spread through infected cow’s milk?

First Check Team / 9 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Rabies can spread through the milk of an infected, rabid cattle. FACT: There are no evidence-based report of rabies spreading through milk, even if the animal is infected. Medical and veterinary experts say rabies is transmitted almost exclusively through the saliva of an infected animal—typically via bites—and not through milk. Earlier this week, panic gripped the Piprauli village in Uttar […]

26
Dec

Vaping isn’t safer than smoking: ICMR study links e-cigarettes to higher heart attack risk

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
11 min read

A new comprehensive review led by the Indian Council of Medical Research–National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research (ICMR-NICPR) raises serious concerns about vaping—a trend that is gripping India. Analysing data from 12 global studies with over 1.2 million participants, researchers found that e-cigarette users face a significantly higher risk of heart attacks, up to 53 per […]

24
Dec

Does high coffee intake weaken bones in older women? | Explained

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
8 min read

We all reach for tea or coffee to kickstart the day, push through long work hours, or simply feel more alert. But could this everyday habit be quietly affecting bone health? A new study published in Nutrients suggests it might; at least for older women. Tracking nearly 10,000 women aged 65 and above over a decade, researchers found that while tea […]

24
Dec

Switching to jaggery for health? Here’s what science really says

First Check Team / 9 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM A viral Instagram reel claims that jaggery (gud) is not a healthier alternative to white sugar, asserting that both have almost the same calorie content, that jaggery’s minerals are present only in trace amounts, and that, despite being less processed, jaggery spikes blood sugar levels in much the same way as refined sugar. FACT […]

24
Dec

FACT CHECK: Do apple cider vinegar tablets really help you lose weight?

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: Apple cider vinegar (ACV) tablets are not scientifically proven to cause significant weight loss and are being misleadingly marketed as effective weight-loss solutions despite lacking strong research evidence. FACT: True. Apple cider vinegar (ACV) tablets are widely promoted as effective weight-loss solutions, often endorsed by celebrities. However, there is no strong scientific evidence […]

24
Dec

FACT CHECK: Are polyester and nylon clothes disrupting your hormones without you knowing?

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Polyester and nylon clothing, being plastic-based, shed micro- and nanoplastics that carry hormone-disrupting chemicals, and wearing these synthetic fabrics can interfere with the body’s hormonal system, making them unsafe for regular use. FACT: Scientific evidence shows that polyester and nylon shed microplastic fibres and contain chemical additives such as dyes and plasticisers, some of which are linked to skin sensitisation and hormone disruption. […]

23
Dec

Does better screening explain Kerala’s high cancer numbers? Experts weigh in

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
11 min read

Kerala, often praised for its public health systems and touted for its performance on development indices, has topped another metric— it has emerged as the state with the highest per capita cancer incidence in India, according to recent government data. A reply in the Lok Sabha by Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare […]

23
Dec

Fact check: Are cooked carrots really healthier for you than raw ones?

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Cooked carrots are healthier than raw carrots because cooking increases the absorption of vitamin A and makes them easier to digest. FACT: Evidence shows that cooking carrots significantly increases the absorption of beta-carotene, the precursor of vitamin A, especially when cooked with a small amount of fat. Experts say that while raw carrots preserve […]

22
Dec

Universal health coverage by 2030? Why millions still can’t afford health care

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
8 min read

Every human being has the right to health, which is ‘the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health’. This fundamental right obliges countries to create and implement legislation and policies that guarantee universal access to quality health services and address the root causes of health disparities, including poverty, stigma, and discrimination. In line with […]

20
Dec

Fact check: Is it normal for babies to have a protruding tummy? The real reasons behind a ‘buddha belly’

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Many parents worry that a big pot belly in children signals an underlying health problem or poor development, but, it is usually normal, a common part of early childhood as abdominal muscles and intestines develop, and often resolves on its own with time. FACT: A soft, protruding tummy in babies and toddlers is usually […]

19
Dec

Why Delhi’s toxic air can be dangerous for children’s lungs

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
7 min read

A thick blanket of smog has once again engulfed the national capital, with AQI levels in Delhi and several north Indian cities frequently breaching the hazardous mark. While air pollution is often discussed in broad terms, its impact on children remains deeply concerning, as faster breathing rates and developing lungs make them more vulnerable to […]

19
Dec

Fact check: Is wheat ‘poisonous’ for your child? What every parent needs to know

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
10 min read

CLAIM: Wheat can be harmful for some children, causing poor growth and health issues. Children with celiac disease may react severely to gluten, making wheat effectively ‘poisonous’ for them. FACT: Wheat can be harmful for some children. In those with celiac disease or certain wheat allergies, gluten triggers immune reactions that damage the small intestine, […]

18
Dec

Centre says ‘no conclusive data’ on air pollution casualties, but global studies warn of 15 lakh annual deaths in India

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
11 min read

In a recent Rajya Sabha reply, the Centre stated that “there is no conclusive data available in the country to establish direct correlation of death/ disease exclusively due to air pollution.” This assertion comes amid widespread public concern over deteriorating air quality in India’s major cities, including Delhi and the National Capital Region, its health impacts […]

17
Dec

FACT CHECK: Why do mosquitoes bite some people more than others? Science finally explains

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Some people get more mosquito bites because they exhale more carbon dioxide, produce more body heat and sweat (especially lactic acid), and belong to specific blood groups such as O or A. And that sugar intake influences mosquito attraction. FACT: Mosquitoes are attracted to a combination of cues, including body odour (especially lactic acid), […]

17
Dec

World leaders adopt first-ever joint UN declaration on NCDs and mental health

First Check Team / 9 months
0
3 min read

World leaders meeting at the Eightieth United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) have adopted a landmark political declaration that, for the first time, addresses noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health together under a single, integrated global framework. Adopted following months of intergovernmental negotiations and endorsed at the fourth UN High-Level Meeting on the prevention and control […]

17
Dec

FACT CHECK: Are COVID-19 vaccines safe?

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: COVID-19 vaccines may lead to Adverse Events Following Immunisation (AEFIs). FACT: COVID-19 vaccines are generally safe, with most Adverse Events Following Immunisation (AEFIs) being minor and resolving on their own. Serious AEFIs are very rare and are mostly coincidental or undetermined/unclassifiable. Ever since the pandemic, people have repeatedly raised questions about the safety of […]

17
Dec

Fact check: Is swaddling your baby safe?

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Tightly swaddling a baby to ‘straighten’ their hands and feet is harmful and unnecessary. Swaddling should be done loosely to manage reflexive movements, not to forcefully shape a baby’s limbs. FACT: Swaddling can help newborns sleep better by reducing their startle reflex, but it must be done safely. Studies show that improper swaddling, especially […]

16
Dec

Fact check: Are baby walkers safe? The data on injuries and developmental delays says…

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Baby walkers are unsafe for infants as they increase the risk of injuries and interfere with natural walking development, and therefore should not be used. FACT: True. Using baby walkers is unsafe for infants and does not help them learn to walk faster. Multiple studies show that walkers increase the risk of serious injuries […]

16
Dec

Is plastic poisoning our children? UNICEF’s new report rings global alarm

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
12 min read

A UNICEF report has raised serious concerns about the growing and largely invisible threat that plastic pollution poses to children’s health and development worldwide. Titled ‘Generation Plastic: Unpacking the Impact of Plastic on Children,’ the report warns that children today are surrounded by more plastic than any previous generation, with exposure beginning even before birth and […]

16
Dec

Why are mental health services still out of reach for millions in India?

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
8 min read

Nearly 7.3 per cent of India’s adolescents and 10.6 per cent of adults across twelve states are living with mental health disorders, according to new government data presented in the Lok Sabha, underlining a crisis in which up to 92 per cent of those affected still go without proper treatment due to stigma, low awareness and a severe […]

15
Dec

No clear data on pollution deaths? What studies actually say about India’s air crisis

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
11 min read

In a recent Rajya Sabha reply, the Centre stated that “there is no conclusive data available in the country to establish direct correlation of death/ disease exclusively due to air pollution.” This assertion comes amid widespread public concern over deteriorating air quality in India’s major cities, including Delhi and the National Capital Region, its health impacts and […]

15
Dec

Fact check: Can too many layers of clothing harm your infant?

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Excessive layering of clothes can overheat newborns and cause fever, which may subside once the baby is unwrapped. FACT: Over-layering clothes on infants can cause overheating, dehydration, and increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), especially if caps are tight or the baby sleeps in unsafe positions. Experts recommend dressing babies in […]

13
Dec

Malaria claimed over 6 lakh lives in 2024, drug resistance threatens progress | WHO report explained

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
8 min read

A new World Health Organisation (WHO) report shows that malaria infected an estimated 28.2 crore people and claimed 6,10,000 lives worldwide in 2024, underscoring how the disease continues to pose a major public health burden despite decades of global progress. A major outcome of this year’s report is the alarming confirmation that antimalarial drug resistance is […]

12
Dec

Fact check: Is it unsafe to use an immersion rod in a steel bucket or near plastic bucket edges?

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Using an immersion rod in a steel or iron bucket is extremely dangerous as it can cause electrocution, and placing the rod near the edges of a plastic bucket can melt the bucket and lead to a fire; therefore, only the centre of a plastic bucket is safe for heating water. FACT: Immersion rods […]

12
Dec

WHO expert panel reaffirms: “Vaccines do not cause autism”

First Check Team / 9 months
0
5 min read

The World Health Organization’s top vaccine safety advisory body has issued a categorical reaffirmation that vaccines do not cause autism, a position directly countering recent comments by US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and a controversial change on the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website. In a statement released on Thursday, […]

10
Dec

Australia issues mental health alert on weight-loss drugs as WHO sets new guidelines

First Check Team / 9 months
0
6 min read

Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) issued updated safety warnings for GLP-1 receptor agonists, a fast-growing class of diabetes and weight-loss medicines, even as the World Health Organization released its first-ever global guideline on using these drugs to treat obesity. The TGA alert recently issued updates product information for all GLP-1 and GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists currently […]

10
Dec

Fact check: Can high-intensity adventure sports like bungee jumping really trigger a cardiac arrest?

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: High-intensity adventure sports can pose health risks like cardiac arrest. FACT: High-intensity adventure sports like bungee jumping, skydiving, and mountaineering carry health risks, especially for individuals with underlying conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or high myopia. Experts warn that sudden adrenaline surges can trigger cardiovascular problems, and lack of proper preparation […]

09
Dec

FACT CHECK: Should you stop boiling packaged milk?

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Packaged milk (pasteurised) does not need to be boiled, and can be safely heated only till lukewarm and used directly for making tea and coffee. FACT: Packaged milk is already pasteurised, which kills harmful bacteria and makes additional boiling generally unnecessary. Experts explain that overheating or prolonged boiling can reduce its nutritional quality, particularly […]

09
Dec

Air purifiers can clean the air—but some may also harm you, studies warn

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
5 min read

As winter deepens and pollution spikes, many households across cities like Delhi or Mumbai place faith in air purifiers as a shield against dust, smoke, and harmful particles. In bedrooms, living rooms, and even kitchens, these devices hum away for hours. Some people keep them running almost continuously, assuming the cleaner, the better. But could […]

09
Dec

India’s silent pandemic: Why antibiotics are failing and what it means for your health

Deepak Kumar Gautam / 9 months
0
10 min read

Just last week, I had a throat infection, and did what many people in our country do when they have similar issues—bought some antibiotics from the nearest pharmacy, without consulting a doctor first, and chose to self-medicate. However, when I finally went to consult an ENT specialist after I was not getting better, the doctor, […]

08
Dec

India among top countries hit by rising measles cases, WHO report finds

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
9 min read

Devonay Pena comforts her 13-month-old daughter, Jaqi Herrera, after Herrera received her first dose of the MMR vaccine at the City of Lubbock Health Department in Lubbock, Texas, US | Reuters A new World Health Organization (WHO) report shows that while measles deaths have dropped dramatically over the past two decades, the number of infections is once […]

08
Dec

How climate change is silently crippling India’s health goals

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
9 min read

Climate change is increasingly being recognised not just as an environmental threat, but as a significant driver of adverse health outcomes. Studies over the years have linked climate-related events to health challenges such as cancers and maternal complications, and have said it can even fuel anxiety, depression, and stress because of a concept called solastalgia. Against this backdrop of growing evidence […]

08
Dec

Fact check: Is repeatedly boiling your tea causing acidity?

Sakshi Srivastava / 9 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Repeatedly boiling tea increases the extraction and concentration of acidic compounds like tannins and polyphenols, thereby lowering its pH and potentially triggering acidity in some people who consume it. FACT: Repeatedly boiling tea can increase the extraction of tannins and polyphenols, which are acidic compounds. Experts note that while this may slightly raise acidity, […]

06
Dec

Can coffee REALLY slow ageing? New study says yes — But only if you drink it right

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
9 min read

Coffee has been the morning buddy to kickstart work or late-night deadlines and is often associated with certain health benefits. But have you ever thought that this everyday beverage could also influence how fast your cells age, especially in people with severe mental illness? A new study published in the BMJ Mental Health has found that moderate […]

05
Dec

The wheelchair outrage misses the point: Air travel is not built for people with disabilities

Tanushree Sarkar / 10 months
0
14 min read

Disability is almost always a spectacle. A few years ago, the internet was viral with news of a teenager being denied air travel in Ranchi. There was much uproar and outrage. A few weeks ago, a different kind of outrage was sparked when a video of a long line of wheelchairs outside a boarding gate, […]

05
Dec

Do C-sections delay mother–baby bonding? All you need to know

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: C-section mothers experience intense post-operative pain and do not instantly feel an emotional connection with their newborns after birth. Many also struggle with feeding, holding, and caring for their babies in the first hours or days due to physical limitations and recovery challenges. FACT: Modern C-sections, performed under spinal anaesthesia, are less painful, and […]

04
Dec

Fact check: Is folic acid important during pregnancy?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: Not taking folic acid during pregnancy can lead to severe developmental issues in children, including microcephaly, which may also be linked to TORCH infections, and it should ideally be taken three months before conception or immediately after a positive pregnancy test. FACT: Folic acid is essential for early foetal development, particularly for preventing neural […]

03
Dec

FACT CHECK: Does Chinese food cause cancer due to MSG?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Many people believe that MSG in Chinese food is harmful and can cause cancer, linking it to Chinese Restaurant Syndrome. However, this is a common misconception, and experts consider MSG safe in normal amounts. FACT: True. MSG is safe for most people when consumed in normal amounts. Scientific evidence shows it does not cause […]

03
Dec

Can your daily diet raise lung cancer risk? New study reveals a SHOCKING link

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
5 min read

Ever wonder that not just air pollution or smoking, but even the food you eat could influence your risk of developing lung cancer? While smoking and exposure to toxic air remain the major causes of lung cancer globally, diet may play a supporting role, affecting who develops the disease and who does not, according to […]

03
Dec

FACT CHECK: Is infantile masturbation normal? What should parents do?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Infantile masturbation, or Infantile Gratification Disorder, is a normal self-soothing behaviour in babies, and parents should manage it through distraction, not by forcibly stopping the child, as it will fade with time. FACT: True. Infantile masturbation, or Childhood Gratification Disorder, is a common and normal behaviour in young children. It may include rubbing, pelvic […]

02
Dec

Could your diet be increasing your lung cancer risk? A new study says…

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
5 min read

Ever wonder that not just air pollution or smoking, but even the food you eat could influence your risk of developing lung cancer? While smoking and exposure to toxic air remain the major causes of lung cancer globally, diet may play a supporting role, affecting who develops the disease and who does not, according to […]

02
Dec

India’s HIV fight: Big victories, bigger challenges — What doctors say must change now

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
12 min read

Living with HIV or AIDS can be a difficult scenario for many people—not just for its health tolls and public health costs, but also for the burden of deep-seated prejudices, stigma and discrimination that continues to date. Earlier this year, for instance, the Gujarat High Court highlighted a stark instance of discrimination—a female staffer of […]

02
Dec

Fact check: Does your blood thicken in the cold, causing heart attacks?

First Check Team / 10 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: An Instagram post by Dr Yokesh Arul claims that winter temperatures sharply raise heart attack risk by causing blood vessels to constrict, blood to “thicken,” and the heart’s workload to increase, especially in people with diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol. FACT: Experts agree that cold weather can raise blood pressure and strain the heart […]

01
Dec

Fact check: Does the viral rice water remedy actually cure UTIs?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Rice water helps in treating UTI. FACT: There is no scientific evidence that rice water can treat or prevent UTIs. While it may offer mild hydration or a soothing effect, it does not kill bacteria like E. coli or cure infections. Experts suggest proper medical treatment, including antibiotics and adequate fluid intake, remains necessary. […]

01
Dec

Just 2 cigarettes a day skyrockets heart disease risk by 50 pc, study finds

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
8 min read

Smoking is one of the most prominent causes of death across the globe. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco kills more than 7 million people every year. Smoking, being the most common form of tobacco used worldwide, significantly contributes to this number. Among the most devastating consequences of smoking are cardiovascular diseases (CVD), which include heart […]

01
Dec

Fact check: Do naturopathy and autophagy actually help in cancer recovery?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: Naturopathy and autophagy can significantly aid cancer recovery. FACT: False. Naturopathy and autophagy do not cure cancer. Experts note that any benefits are limited to supportive care or managing side effects, and there is no evidence that these approaches can increase survival. They should not be considered a substitute for proven medical treatments like […]

01
Dec

Do you have ‘flat feet’? Find out how early care can save you from pain and complications

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
6 min read

Earlier this year, the Tamil Nadu government made headlines when they said that they would not hire drivers with flat feet for vacancies across its eight state transport corporations. Though surprising to some, this isn’t new in India. The Services Selection Board (SSB), responsible for choosing candidates for the Indian Armed Forces, also disqualifies applicants depending on the […]

30
Nov

Why 80 per cent of Indians with disabilities still lack health insurance; a new survey reveals

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
8 min read

For 35 years, Thakurdas Mahoto has lived with the long-term consequences of leprosy. The disease left him 40 per cent disabled, and its impact still shapes every aspect of his daily life. Because leprosy reduces sensation in the affected body parts, small cuts or injuries often go unnoticed. These minor wounds gradually worsen into large […]

30
Nov

Shoulder pain that doesn’t go away? What you need to know about ‘frozen shoulder’

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
8 min read

You must have felt it—or at least heard people around you complain about a sudden, persistent stiffness in the shoulder that makes even simple movements painfully difficult. For many, this seemingly innocuous discomfort turns out to be frozen shoulder, clinically known as adhesive capsulitis—a condition characterised by enduring shoulder pain and significantly restricted mobility which affects 3–5 […]

28
Nov

Fact check: Do childhood vaccines really cause autism?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Routine childhood vaccination is now the leading cause of autism, and India is seeing a rapid rise in autism because very young children are receiving ‘too many vaccines.’ FACT: Extensive scientific research, including large global studies and reviews by the WHO and CDC, has found no causal link between childhood vaccines and autism. In […]

28
Nov

The silent struggle: How Gen Z and millennials battle burnout and financial stress

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
8 min read

For Rajat Kumar (name changed), 28, what began as a promising career with a Delhi-based international wildlife conservation organisation turned into a daily struggle against exhaustion and frustration. He joined the organisation eager to contribute to a cause he deeply cared about, but within months, the reality of the workplace began to take its toll. […]

27
Nov

Got neck pain? You’re among 20.3 crore people worldwide facing the same problem

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
9 min read

Neck pain has increasingly become a common complaint in today’s fast-paced world. Whether in the office, at home, or among older adults and young individuals, almost everyone experiences discomfort in their cervical spine at some point. Long hours of sedentary work, excessive use of smartphones and computers, and growing stress levels have contributed to a […]

27
Nov

Fact check: Hot or cold water, what is the right way to wash your face?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Washing your face with lukewarm water is better for cleansing, while cold water feels refreshing and helps reduce puffiness, but isn’t effective at removing oil and dirt from the skin. FACT: Very hot or very cold water can irritate the skin and is not ideal for face washing. Experts recommend using lukewarm water, around […]

26
Nov

The ‘Jaadu Ki Jhappi’ is real: What hugs do to your brain, heart, and immune system

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
8 min read

In the 2003 Bollywood classic Munna Bhai M.B.B.S., there’s a cure-all silver bullet that the gangster turned aspiring medico, played by Sanjay Dutt, prescribes for any stress or emotional distress—a “Jaadu Ki Jhappi,” or a magical hug. A touching scene that still lingers in the hearts of millions is when Dutt’s character, Munna Bhai, gives […]

26
Nov

FACT CHECK: Is Betel leaf really a hidden health gem for digestion, weight loss, and chest congestion?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Betel leaf can aid digestion, reduce acidity and bloating, improve oral health, and relieve chest congestion when warmed with ghee or mustard oil and placed on the chest. FACT: Experts caution that excessive or frequent use can cause irritation or other long-term issues, and applying it warm on the chest mainly provides relief through […]

25
Nov

Fact check: Can hot water baths really treat cancer?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Hot water bath cures cancer. FACT: False. Hot water baths do not cure cancer. Experts note that any benefits are limited to symptomatic relief, and there is no evidence that home hot baths can cure cancer. Hot water therapy should not be considered a substitute for medical treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, or clinically supervised […]

24
Nov

FACT CHECK: Can a simple guava really lower your cholesterol? Experts reveal the truth

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
8 min read

CLAIM: Guava can naturally lower cholesterol within three months by reducing LDL, increasing HDL and preventing plaque formation in the arteries. The fruit’s antioxidants, vitamin C and soluble fibre are said to support better cholesterol absorption. FACT: Daily consumption of guava may help lower LDL (bad cholesterol), modestly increase HDL (good cholesterol), and reduce oxidative […]

24
Nov

AI in healthcare: From hospital wards to personal health assistants, a revolution in motion

Riyaz Wani / 10 months
0
4 min read

Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic promise in healthcare. It’s reshaping everything from bedside monitoring to billion-dollar business strategies. Yet, as the technology races ahead, experts warn that innovation without guardrails could compromise patient safety and trust. A new American Heart Association (AHA) Science Advisory, published in Circulation, calls for “clear and simple rules […]

24
Nov

FACT CHECK: Are silicone-based lip implants safe?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: Permanent silicone-based lip implants can cause multiple side effects, making hyaluronic acid fillers a safer alternative for lip enhancement. FACT: Silicone-based lip implants can shift, cause swelling, infection, scar tissue, or nerve irritation, and may require corrective surgery. Experts advise the use of dissolvable hyaluronic acid fillers, which are generally safer, reversible, and allow […]

23
Nov

India ranks second globally in chronic kidney disease: What The Lancet study reveals

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
10 min read

A new study published in The Lancet has revealed that India now has the second-highest number of people living with chronic kidney disease in the world. According to the report, in 2023, approximately 13.8 crore Indians were affected by the condition, second only to China’s 15.2 crore. The global study, led by researchers from the Institute for Health […]

21
Nov

Fact check: Can rubbing ghee and coconut oil on the navel really improve vision?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Applying a mixture of desi ghee and coconut oil on the navel and under the arms can strengthen eyesight and activate the brain’s medulla oblongata FACT: False. There is no scientific evidence that applying ghee or coconut oil to the navel improves eyesight or activates the medulla oblongata. Experts suggest that maintaining eye health […]

20
Nov

India tops global TB chart: Why the nation remains at the epicenter of the crisis

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
11 min read

A new World Health Organization (WHO) report has once again placed India at the top of the global tuberculosis (TB) burden chart, in terms of incidence of all TB cases, drug-resistant types of TB, and even TB-related deaths. The Global Tuberculosis Report 2025 states that India, despite seeing a drastic drop in incidence rates since 2010, still accounted for […]

20
Nov

Why women are twice as vulnerable to headache

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
7 min read

A new study published in The Lancet Neurology reveals that headache disorders affected almost 3 billion (300 crore) people in 2023, which is nearly one in every three individuals across the world. This makes headache disorders one of the most persistent and disabling global health issues of the last three decades. The study is part of […]

20
Nov

Is whey protein bad for your kidneys? Experts reveal the TRUTH

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Consuming whey protein is safe for healthy individuals and supports muscle building and recovery, while those with kidney issues should monitor intake, as excessive protein can strain the kidneys. FACT: True. For healthy individuals, whey protein is safe and does not harm the kidneys when consumed in moderation. However, experts advise that people with […]

19
Nov

Fact Check: Does urinating while standing cause prostate cancer in men?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Urinating while standing prevents the bladder from emptying completely, leading to prostate problems, sexual weakness, and even prostate cancer in men. FACT: There is no scientific evidence that urinating while standing causes prostate cancer. Studies show that sitting may slightly improve bladder emptying in men with urinary issues, but for healthy men, posture has no significant […]

19
Nov

Fact check: Next time you tickle a baby, think twice, it’s not always harmless

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Tickling babies may seem fun, but their laughter is often just a reflex, not true enjoyment. It can cause stress, affect their breathing and heart rate, and confuse their brain between fun and panic. FACT: Tickling babies, especially in the first few months, can be stressful rather than enjoyable. Infants are not yet able […]

18
Nov

Does drinking cold water REALLY make you gain weight?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Drinking cold water leads to weight gain. FACT: Drinking cold water does not cause weight gain. It may burn a few extra calories as the body works to maintain its core temperature, but the effect is small and not enough to significantly impact weight. Water, regardless of temperature, should be consumed with a focus […]

18
Nov

Pregnant? Here’s why air pollution could harm your baby and what you can do

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
6 min read

As the AQI soars across various parts of India, with cities like Delhi regularly crossing the hazardous 400 mark, conversations around air pollution mostly focus on respiratory issues. But there’s a less visible yet equally serious threat, the impact of toxic air on pregnant women. Pregnancy, a period when every precaution matters for the health of both […]

18
Nov

World Diabetes Day: Why the health crisis is rising among young Indian adults

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
11 min read

Diabetes continues to be a growing concern for the world, including India, which is often referred to as the diabetes capital of the world. According to the International Diabetes Federation, the prevalence of diabetes in the world will grow from about 11 per cent of adults in 2024 to about 13 per cent by 2050. […]

17
Nov

Gavi hits HPV vaccine goal, reaching 86 million girls worldwide

First Check Team / 10 months
0
3 min read

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, has reached its ambitious goal of vaccinating 86 million girls against human papillomavirus (HPV), a major cause of cervical cancer. The milestone, announced on the world’s first cervical cancer elimination day, could prevent 1.4 million deaths, according to Gavi. “Every two minutes, a woman dies from cervical cancer – a disease […]

17
Nov

Air pollution in India is fueling an asthma crisis: Here’s what you need to know

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
9 min read

The air pollution crisis in India, particularly in the north of the country, including the national capital, has been dominating the headlines over the past few weeks. While this might seem like a ‘routine’ ‘yearly affair’ for some, experts have long been raising alarm bells about how this toxic air can have severe health consequences—including […]

16
Nov

FACT CHECK: Is weight loss the same as fat loss?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: Fat loss and weight loss are not the same. FACT: True. Weight loss and fat loss are not the same. Weight loss refers to a reduction in overall body weight, which can include fat, muscle, water, or glycogen, while fat loss specifically targets excess body fat, improving body composition, metabolic health, and long-term well-being. […]

16
Nov

Are sanitary pads unsafe? VIRAL video sparks major health debate

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: Sanitary pads are unsafe as they contain chemicals like phthalates, VOCs, and PFAS, which may disrupt hormones and reproductive health. They also reduce airflow, keeping the vaginal area damp and increasing the risk of infections and UTIs. FACT: Using sanitary pads, especially those with fragrances, chemicals, or poor airflow, can increase the risk of […]

14
Nov

Could your kitchen be the reason behind your UTI? New study reveals the SHOCKING link

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
5 min read

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is often associated with personal hygiene habits and bathroom cleanliness, such as frequent handwashing, wiping correctly, and staying hydrated. But have you ever considered that your kitchen could be the culprit as well? A new study presented in Southern California has turned that assumption on its head, revealing that up to 18 per […]

14
Nov

FACT CHECK: Does chewing gum REALLY improve digestion?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Chewing gum may actually aid digestion and relieve symptoms like acidity and bloating. However, overuse or certain sugar-free gums can cause gas, loose stools, and other digestive issues. FACT: While chewing gum may stimulate saliva production and support digestion, it does not significantly speed up gastric emptying on its own. Experts recommend using sugar-free […]

13
Nov

Fact check: Is pooping right after eating a sign of poor gut health?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: The reel claims that needing to defecate immediately after eating is a sign of poor gut health and may indicate conditions like IBS, inflammation, indigestion, or nutritional deficiencies. FACT: Needing to use a restroom right after eating is usually a normal bodily response called the gastrocolic reflex, where the colon contracts to make room […]

13
Nov

Pneumonia kills more children than any other infectious disease, but why does it continue to persist? | Explained

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
8 min read

Pneumonia continues to be one of the leading causes of death among children worldwide. Despite being both preventable and treatable, it kills more children each year than any other infectious disease. According to UNICEF, pneumonia kills more than 7 lakh children under the age of five annually. This translates to nearly 2,000 deaths every day, including around 1.9 lakh […]

12
Nov

Using antacids regularly for acidity? It could be hurting your gut

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Regularly consuming antacids may seem to provide instant relief from acidity, but it can actually harm digestion, disturb stomach balance, and increase dependency. FACT: Regular or excessive use of antacids can disrupt digestion, cause nutrient imbalances, and interact with other medications. They provide only short-term relief and may mask underlying conditions, so long-term or […]

12
Nov

Fact check: Are vegetable juices really as healthy as you think?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Drinking raw vegetable juice is harmful to health as it contains pathogenic bacteria and anti-nutrients that can cause kidney stones, and it is better to consume cooked vegetables instead. FACT: True. Raw vegetable juices can carry harmful bacteria and contain anti-nutrients that may affect kidney health, while juicing removes fibre essential for gut and […]

12
Nov

From diagnosis to defiance: The real stories of cancer survivors who fought back

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
13 min read

For many of us, growing up, the idea of cancer was always portrayed as an almost inevitable ‘end’. Popular culture showed people wasting away, pale faces, dark circles, trembling hands, and a slow, painful decline. Cancer, which remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, claiming nearly 10 million lives in 2020, was synonymous with hopelessness […]

12
Nov

Could your 5000 steps slow Alzheimer’s progression? Here’s what new study says

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
7 min read

Walking, it turns out, doesn’t just help burn calories, improve heart health, or clear your mind after a long day—it also plays a crucial role in keeping your memory sharp and your brain young. A new study published in Nature Medicine by researchers at Mass General Brigham, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, has shown that […]

11
Nov

Fact check | Ponytails, braids, buns: Is your favourite hairstyle silently causing hair loss?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Wearing tight hairstyles like ponytails, braids, or buns can cause hair loss, a condition known as traction alopecia, by putting constant pressure on the hair follicles, especially around the hairline. FACT: True. Tight hairstyles like ponytails, braids, and buns can cause traction alopecia, a type of hair loss from constant tension on the hair […]

11
Nov

Is gluten really the enemy? Here’s what experts want you to know

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
9 min read

CLAIM: Gluten is harmful only for people with celiac disease or NCGS, and for everyone else, avoiding it provides no proven benefits for digestion, energy, or weight management. FACT: True. Gluten is harmful only for people with celiac disease, wheat allergy or non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). For the general population, there is no scientific evidence […]

11
Nov

Snoring could be a silent killer: Doctors warn of a hidden sleep disorder spreading across the globe

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
9 min read

Snoring, often dismissed as a harmless sign of deep sleep, can sometimes be a warning from the body that something is wrong. Across the world, doctors are increasingly diagnosing people with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) — a serious sleep-related breathing disorder that interrupts normal breathing patterns and can lead to long-term health complications if left untreated. […]

10
Nov

Can two oranges a day melt fatty liver away? Here’s what experts think

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Eating two whole oranges a day for four weeks can reduce liver fat by 30 per cent, without dieting or losing weight, by improving liver function through antioxidants, fibre, and flavonoids that help burn fat and lower liver stress. FACT: Experts recommend a balanced diet, healthy weight, and consistent physical activity, and caution that […]

10
Nov

Delhi Police constable Sonika Yadav’s 145 kg weightlifting sparks debate: What activities are safe during pregnancy?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
9 min read

When Delhi Police constable Sonika Yadav, 31, stepped onto the platform at the All India Police Weightlifting Cluster 2025–26 in Andhra Pradesh on October 17, spectators anticipated a routine performance in her usual 65-kg powerlifting category. What no one expected was that she was seven months pregnant. As she gripped the barbell for a 145-kg […]

09
Nov

Statins may extend life in prostate cancer patients when taken with certain cancer treatments | Explained

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
6 min read

A recent study suggests that cholesterol-lowering drugs, known as statins, may help men with advanced prostate cancer live longer, offering hope for improved treatment strategies. The study, published in the JAMA Network, analysed 2,187 men from the SPARTAN and TITAN trials— 2 other randomised clinical trials that looked at the effects of apalutamide, a prescription oral […]

07
Nov

Fact check: Is eating quickly harming your health?

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Eating fast is harmful to health and can lead to diabetes, weight gain, mental health issues, nutrient deficiencies, and other related problems. FACT: True. Eating too quickly can lead to overeating, weight gain, and nutrient deficiencies. It can also increase the risk of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Experts suggest eating […]

07
Nov

Why are more Indian men getting cancer? The real reasons doctors are warning about

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
10 min read

Cancer is a large group of diseases with one thing in common – they occur when normal cells turn cancerous, multiplying and spreading uncontrollably. Normally, genes send instructions to cells, telling them when to start and stop growing, but cancer cells ignore these signals. This unchecked growth forms tumours and disrupts normal bodily functions. Despite medical […]

07
Nov

Over 26 pc of Indian women diagnosed with breast cancer. What’s driving the surge? | Explained

Sakshi Srivastava / 10 months
0
11 min read

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death globally, with women carrying a significant share of the burden. According to the World Cancer Research Fund (2022), over 96.65 lakh cancer cases were diagnosed among women worldwide, out of which 7.22 lakh were reported in India. The India Fact Sheet (Globocan 2022) revealed that among Indian women, […]

06
Nov

Fact check: Are ‘cream’ biscuits different from ‘crème’ biscuits?

First Check Team / 11 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Biscuits that are said to be ‘creme’ filled do not contain cream; it’s mostly vegetable oil. FACT: True. There’s often no dairy in products labelled ‘creme.’ Instead, it’s a mix of sugar, vegetable oil, flavouring agents, and stabilizers that mimic the texture of cream, but without any milk fat. A viral Instagram reel claims […]

06
Nov

Is your ‘ice cream’ real? Understanding FSSAI standards for fruit beverages, desserts, and ORS

First Check Team / 11 months
0
4 min read

If you’re someone who watches what you eat, the fine print on your food packet might be more important than you think. Labels don’t just list ingredients, they define what a product legally is and isn’t. This importance of labelling came to the fore after a recent decision by the Food Safety and Standards Authority […]

04
Nov

Building Health for Billions: India’s Digital Bet on Its People

Deepak Kumar Gautam / 11 months
0
5 min read

Nobel laureate Amartya Sen’s Capability Approach emphasises that real human development depends on expanding people’s freedoms in terms of their ability to live a quality life.. Within this framework, health is the cornerstone which not only determines one’s capacity to learn, work, but also enables one to participate fully in national development. India is home […]

04
Nov

OpenAI clarifies: ChatGPT explains health and legal topics, not a substitute for experts

First Check Team / 11 months
0
4 min read

OpenAI has clarified reports that ChatGPT has stopped providing medical, legal, or financial guidance, calling the claims “not true” and insisting that there has been no recent policy change. Responding apparently to a viral post by Eastern Europe’s largest media outlet NEXTA, Karan Singhal, Head of Health AI at OpenAI, wrote on X (formerly Twitter): […]

04
Nov

Drink more water to slim down? Science says hydration could be your secret weight-loss ally

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
5 min read

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, in a tweet on October 24, urged people to drink more water to fight obesity, in view of the growing obesity and overweight crisis in India. “Proper hydration plays an important role in weight management. Pay attention to your daily water intake today – this could be […]

03
Nov

Fact check: Does maida stick to your gut? Experts reveal what happens when you eat refined flour

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Maida does not stick to your gut and is digested like other carbohydrates; however, excessive consumption may pose health risks. FACT: True. Maida does not stick to the gut and is digested like other carbohydrates. However, being low in fibre, excessive consumption can slow intestinal movement, spike blood sugar, and increase other health risks. […]

03
Nov

When Health Information Learns to Travel

Syed Nazakat / 11 months
0
6 min read

How does cognitive discernment shape the way people navigate information? Can a shift in one information domain—such as public health—spill over into another, like politics? And if individuals learn to question and examine information more carefully, could that ultimately help rebuild trust in an era overwhelmed by noise and misinformation? A community library experiment in […]

03
Nov

Are women genetically more vulnerable to depression than men? New study reveals this

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
7 min read

Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, it affects how you feel, think and behave, often leading to emotional and physical problems. People suffering from depression may struggle with daily activities and sometimes feel as if life isn’t worth […]

03
Nov

FACT CHECK: Are watermelon seeds really a superfood?

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
6 min read

CLAIM: Watermelon seeds are a “superfood” packed with nutrients like magnesium, iron, and zinc, which can boost immunity, aid digestion, improve sleep, and promote clear skin. FACT: Watermelon seeds moderately provide nutrients like magnesium, iron, and zinc, along with healthy fats and protein. However, experts caution that consuming them in excessive amounts, especially raw, may […]

02
Nov

Fact Check: Can jackfruit really ‘heal’ diabetes, thyroid, and hormonal issues? Experts weigh in

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Jackfruit is a ‘miracle vegetable’ that can heal diabetes, thyroid issues, hormonal imbalances, support heart health, and improve sexual health. FACT: Jackfruit is rich in fibre and resistant starch, which can aid digestion and support gut health, but it is not a cure for diabetes, thyroid, or hormonal issues. Any blood sugar benefits seen […]

01
Nov

Mary E. Brunkow, Fred Ramsdell and Shimon Sakaguchi Win 2025 Nobel Prize in Medicine for Pioneering Work on Immune Tolerance

First Check Team / 11 months
0
2 min read

Stockholm: The 2025 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine has been awarded to Mary E. Brunkow, Fred Ramsdell, and Shimon Sakaguchi for their discoveries on peripheral immune tolerance — a key mechanism that prevents the immune system from attacking the body’s own tissues. “They identified the immune system’s security guards, regulatory T cells, thus laying […]

31
Oct

ORS controversy: How a doctor’s long battle led to the FSSAI decision

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
6 min read

In a landmark decision aimed at curbing misleading labelling in India’s food and beverage industry, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has prohibited the use of the term “ORS” or “Oral Rehydration Salts” on any food product unless it strictly adheres to World Health Organization (WHO) standards. This regulatory intervention comes after years of persistent […]

31
Oct

Paid menstrual leave policy: A leap towards equality or a source of new biases?

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
10 min read

When 23-year-old journalist Kulsoom Faiz experiences her menstrual cycle, work becomes a struggle against her own body. “I have endometriosis, and my first couple of days are purely filled with agony. I am paralysed; I can’t move, yet I’m expected to perform at the same level as everyone else,” she says. For Kulsoom, menstruation is […]

31
Oct

Chikungunya outbreaks: Why India is at the epicentre of a global health threat

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
9 min read

India could experience the biggest long-term impacts of chikungunya, potentially putting over 51 lakh people at risk every year, a global modelling study published in BMJ Global Health. According to the research led by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, chronic health impacts will be the biggest concern- with evidence suggesting that nearly 50 per cent […]

30
Oct

FACT CHECK: Is jaggery safe for diabetics and weight loss?

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
7 min read

CLAIM: Jaggery and sugar are nearly identical in composition, with jaggery containing only trace minerals and a higher glycemic index, causing faster blood sugar spikes. People with diabetes or weight concerns are advised to use natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extract instead. FACT: Jaggery, despite being less processed than white sugar, is still […]

30
Oct

FACT CHECK: Are sprouts a good source of protein?

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Sprouts provide some protein but are not a high-quality or complete protein source and should be complemented with other foods. FACT: True. Sprouts are a good source of nutrients and fibre, but not a complete protein, and experts suggest combining them with cereals, dairy, nuts, or seeds for a balanced diet. Sprouts, made from […]

30
Oct

WHO calls food assistance key to fighting TB; What the new guidelines mean for India | Explained

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
7 min read

A recent update from the World Health Organisation (WHO) on tuberculosis (TB) and undernutrition marks a significant shift in global TB policy. For the first time, WHO recommends food assistance for household contacts of people diagnosed with TB in food-insecure settings. This guidance emerges from growing recognition of the strong link between undernutrition and TB activation, a […]

30
Oct

FACT CHECK: Is taking Isabgol daily healthy?

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
5 min read

CLAIM: Isabgol helps with constipation, blood sugar, cholesterol, gut health, and weight loss, and taking 1–2 spoons daily is safe and beneficial for overall health. FACT: Daily consumption of Isabgol (psyllium husk) is generally safe when taken in the recommended dose of 1–2 teaspoons mixed with water or curd. Experts caution that overconsumption or taking […]

30
Oct

Exposure to fine particulate matter air pollution may increase risk for dementia: study

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
10 min read

Air pollution is increasingly becoming one of the most concerning public health challenges of our time. We are acutely aware of the dangers it poses to our lungs, contributing to respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular problems, and other physical ailments. However, a new study published in JAMA Neurology has now revealed an alarming new consequence of long-term exposure to fine particulate […]

30
Oct

Explained | Why men’s fertility declines with age and what to do

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
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9 min read

For years now, women have been warned of their ticking biological clock. It has become almost routine to see reels, posts, and articles reminding women that their fertility peaks in their twenties and starts declining sharply after the mid-thirties. By the late thirties and early forties, the so-called “bell” of the female biological clock tolls […]

29
Oct

World Stroke Day: Your oral health could be WARNING you about a stroke; here’s what science says

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
11 min read

While high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking are well-known risk factors for stroke, scientists are now drawing attention to an often-overlooked contributor—poor oral health. A new study published in the official journal of the American Academy of Neurology, Neurology, reveals that people suffering from both gum inflammation and dental cavities face an 86 per cent higher risk of ischaemic […]

29
Oct

FACT CHECK: Is it safe to use leftover kneaded dough?

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
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6 min read

CLAIM: Using leftover kneaded flour stored overnight in the refrigerator is safe and nutritionally similar to fresh flour. FACT: Leftover kneaded dough can pose health risks if stored overnight, as it may promote bacterial and fungal growth. Experts recommend using fresh dough and, if storing briefly, keeping it in an airtight container for no more […]

29
Oct

FACT CHECK: Is black coffee good for health?

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
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7 min read

CLAIM: Black coffee, when consumed without sugar and within safe limits, can protect against liver diseases, heart problems, diabetes, and even certain cancers, making it one of the healthiest beverages you can drink. FACT: Black coffee can support health when consumed in moderation, with benefits including improved alertness, liver protection, and a reduced risk of […]

29
Oct

From dog bites to deaths: Understanding rabies prevention in India

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
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7 min read

Rabies is among the deadliest viral infections known to humans, with an almost 100 per cent fatality rate once symptoms appear. In India, it continues to claim thousands of lives every year despite being entirely preventable. According to the Lancet study, rabies killed approximately 5,700 people in India in 2022–23. The World Health Organisation estimates […]

28
Oct

The viral Gemini Trend offering solace in loss, but at what cost?

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
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8 min read

For Anandita Jha, who lost her father to a heart attack in October 2020, the Gemini trend, where people generate images of themselves hugging their younger selves, reconnecting with their loved ones who are no longer here, or even living out dream moments with their idols, became more than just another viral experiment—it became a […]

28
Oct

Fact check: Does sweating really cause weight loss?

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
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7 min read

CLAIM: Sweating does not cause weight loss. FACT: Sweating does not cause weight loss; any immediate drop in weight after a workout is due to temporary water loss, which is regained upon rehydration. Experts suggest focusing on a calorie-controlled diet and regular exercise to achieve true and sustainable weight loss, rather than trying to sweat […]

28
Oct

AI Psychosis: Are we distancing ourselves from reality because of AI?

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
8 min read

In an unusual yet revealing discussion on Reddit, a user named ‘BigBabyBob21’ shared a story that reflects a growing phenomenon in the digital age. Posting on MyBoyfriendIsAI—a community page where people discuss their AI relationships—this user confessed that they no longer feel the need to pursue connections with human partners. “They say I couldn’t connect with […]

28
Oct

Why women’s chest pain is often dismissed: Understanding atypical angina

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
9 min read

There are several times when women complain of chest pain and often pass it off as stress, fatigue, or simply “indigestion.” These moments, frequently dismissed as minor or transient, can sometimes be warning signs of something far more serious—angina, or chest pain that is often a symptom of underlying cardiovascular disease. Coronary artery disease, a […]

28
Oct

Are cartoons hurting your child? Find out how excessive screen time impacts children’s brains, behaviour, and long-term health

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
12 min read

For Sarah Raza, a working mother with a two-and-a-half-year-old son, managing he child’s screen time has become a daily negotiation. Her child started watching Cocomelon a year ago. “It’s weird,” Sarah admits, “whenever a new rhyme comes up, even I sit and watch. The storytelling is really good sometimes.” Currently, her son averages about an hour of […]

27
Oct

The complex landscape of surrogacy in India: Law, ethics, and parenthood pathways

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
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12 min read

Parenthood is often described as one of life’s greatest joys. Yet, for many couples, this journey is marked by unexpected obstacles—miscarriages, repeated fertility treatments, and the deep emotional and financial toll of infertility. In fact, World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that one in six people worldwide—around 17.5 per cent of the global adult population—experience infertility at some […]

27
Oct

Fact check: Does the uterus expand during periods?

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
4 min read

CLAIM: The uterus quadruples in weight and expands in size and volume by 10–15 per cent during menstruation. FACT: False. Experts say the uterus does not change size during menstruation. Bloating and heaviness are caused by hormonal fluctuations and water retention. You’ve probably noticed that your body feels heavier and more bloated when your period arrives—even if […]

27
Oct

India’s growing anaemia crisis: Why millions are suffering from this preventable public health emergency

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
11 min read

Remember the times when a classmate fainted in the middle of a school assembly? Or the college days when a friend constantly complained of feeling dizzy and tired but brushed it off as “weakness”? Even today, in villages and small towns, women returning from childbirth are told to “eat more” when they struggle with fatigue. […]

27
Oct

Bayosthiti AI and Narayana Health to build India’s first AI-powered heart disease predictor

First Check Team / 11 months
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4 min read

Bengaluru: Bayosthiti AI, an innovator in AI-driven healthcare and molecular diagnostics, announced a strategic partnership with Narayana Health, one of the world’s largest cardiac care networks, to develop AI models that predict heart disease in Indian patients. The collaboration leverages RNA sequencing to read the active molecular instructions in cells, combined with gen AI to […]

27
Oct

American Heart Association revamps blood pressure guidelines for the first time since 2017. Could YOU be at risk?

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
7 min read

Hypertension remains one of the world’s most pressing health challenges. Globally, an estimated 1.28 billion adults aged 30–79 years live with high blood pressure, with two-thirds of them in low- and middle-income countries. Alarmingly, nearly half are unaware of their condition, less than half receive treatment, and only one in five manages to keep it under […]

26
Oct

Dark side of quick commerce: The untold health struggles of India’s gig workers

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
9 min read

At just 19, Mohammed Ayan balances two worlds—his first year of a BBA course and his part-time job as a rider for a platform that offers 10 minute deliveries. But in only four months on the job, he has already faced experiences that would make most people rethink the risks of gig work. “This summer, […]

24
Oct

How online food delivery and quick commerce apps are impacting health in India | Explainer

Sakshi Srivastava / 11 months
0
9 min read

It is often said that every new technology brings both convenience and consequences. In today’s digital economy, with just a tap on a smartphone, one can order restaurant meals, groceries, and even snacks—and some are delivered in under ten minutes. The days of sprinting to the neighbourhood store or planning a weekend meal out have […]