FACT CHECK: Is alkaline water good for health?
Published on : Dec 16, 2024CLAIM: Alkaline water is beneficial for health FACT: There’s no...
: Pallav Vyas
Health of India Summit 2024 tackles heart disease, cancer, and AI challenges
Published on : Dec 4, 2024Experts discussed evolving challenges and solutions for India's health sector,...
: First Check Team
How prepared is India for future diseases? Experts discuss at Health of India Summit
Published on : Dec 3, 2024New Delhi: The Health of India Summit 2024 at Hotel...
: Sneha Richhariya
HOI2024: Experts discuss AI’s role in transforming healthcare at Health of India Summit
Published on : Dec 3, 2024New Delhi: At the Health of India Summit 2024 in...
: Sneha Richhariya
AI-fueled health misinformation, infectious diseases and natural remedy myths cause of concern: report
Published on : Dec 3, 2024The "Health Misinformation Vectors in India" report, released at the...
: First Check Team
UK-India health tech bootcamp returns with six Indian startups
Published on : Nov 27, 2024The second edition of the week-long UK-India HealthTech Bootcamp began...
: Sneha Richhariya
Trump’s second term: RFK Jr. to lead health policy overhaul amid expert warnings
Published on : Nov 11, 2024As concerns rise about the implications of a second Trump...
: First Check Team
Report: Majority of adults view, trust and act on TikTok health content
Published on : Nov 7, 2024Around 53% of TikTok users aged 18-29 say they trust...
: First Check Team
FACT CHECK: Which is safer and healthier- raw milk or pasteurized milk?
Published on : Nov 6, 2024Should you be drinking raw milk over pasteurised milk? A...
: First Check Team
FACT CHECK: Does sweetened lemonade have lower health benefits?
Published on : Oct 31, 2024CLAIM: Sugar in lemonade restricts the body's ability to absorb...
: Pallav Vyas
Election results to affect patient, community health, health care delivery system in US: Medical journal
Published on : Oct 30, 2024As the election date approaches in the USA, the...
: First Check Team
Antimicrobial resistance, health reform take centre stage at MSF conference in New Delhi
Published on : Oct 25, 2024Health reform, resistance to antimicrobials, health disparities, and the...
: First Check Team
82% seniors seek health info online: poll
Published on : Oct 20, 2024Around 82% of people over 50 look for health...
: First Check Team
Health is political, policies shaped by ideology of governments: Lancet
Published on : Oct 19, 2024Health and health policy are shaped by the political...
: First Check Team
FACT CHECK: Can eating curd, salad, banana, and radish at night cause health issues?
Published on : Sep 26, 2024CLAIM Consuming curd, salad, banana, radish at night with dinner...
: Allen Joe Mathew
Explainer: What is diphtheria?
Published on : Sep 20, 2024Given the global surge in diphtheria incidence, it’s important to...
: Florica Brahma
FACT CHECK: Does moderate drinking have health benefits?
Published on : Sep 17, 2024CLAIM: No amount of alcohol consumption, light to moderate, can...
: Pallav Vyas
Senior citizens 70 and older to get up to Rs 5 lakh in free health insurance coverage
Published on : Sep 12, 2024The families will get an additional top-up cover up to...
: First Check Team
FACT CHECK: Can garlic lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart disease risk?
Published on : Sep 11, 2024CLAIM: Garlic shots help lower blood pressure, bad cholesterol, and...
: Pallav Vyas
Healthcare workers 8 times more likely to contract TB: study
Published on : Sep 10, 2024The study on healthcare workers, analysed 10 distinct studies conducted between...
: Allen Joe Mathew
FACT CHECK: What are the health benefits of consuming Amla?
Published on : Sep 10, 2024CLAIM: Consuming the Indian gooseberry, known as Amla, has multiple...
: Pallav Vyas
Study: 90% of corporate India skips check-ups amid sedentary lifestyles
Published on : Sep 9, 2024As Indians spend more than a third of their lives...
: First Check Team
India faces largest Chandipura Virus outbreak in two decades
Published on : Sep 7, 2024Between early June to August 15, the Indian health ministry...
: First Check Team
India leads the world in plastic pollution hotspots
Published on : Sep 6, 2024Estimated global data for 2020 show that India was the...
: First Check Team
Rising cholera outbreaks: Afghanistan and Bangladesh top the list in Asia
Published on : Sep 5, 2024The report says the number of reported cholera cases increased...
: Riyaz Wani
UN agencies vaccinate over 187,000 children against polio in Gaza
Published on : Sep 5, 2024The UN agency said the children were vaccinated with novel...
: Riyaz Wani
FACT CHECK: No, Mpox is not ‘Money Pox,’ it is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus
Published on : Sep 4, 2024CLAIM: Mpox is 'Money Pox,' a hoax used to get...
: First Check Team
Rising mpox cases test Pakistan’s fragile healthcare system
Published on : Sep 4, 2024A report in The Lancet warns that insufficient resources are...
: First Check Team
FACT CHECK: Does Chicken Pox spread only after the rashes break out?
Published on : Sep 4, 2024CLAIM: Chicken Pox starts spreading once the rashes break out. ...
: Allen Joe Mathew
India among nations with declining road traffic death rates
Published on : Sep 4, 2024Between 2010 and 2021, road traffic fatalities fell in Bhutan,...
: First Check Team
FACT CHECK: Is WHO suggesting lockdowns to tide over rising mpox cases, and is India preparing for one too?
Published on : Sep 4, 2024CLAIM: The World Health Organization is imposing or recommending the...
: First Check Team
FACT CHECK: Are all types of herpes infections sexually transmitted?
Published on : Sep 3, 2024CLAIM: All types of herpes infections are sexually transmitted ...
: Pallav Vyas
Can simple blood tests predict the risk of heart disease in women? A new study says so
Published on : Sep 3, 2024A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine states...
: Allen Joe Mathew
Explainer: Cardiac Arrest and Heart Attack are not the Same
Published on : Sep 3, 2024Cardiac arrest and heart attack are often used loosely and...
: Pallav Vyas
Condom use falls among European teens, WHO sounds alarm
Published on : Sep 3, 2024A new WHO report shows the rate of condom use...
: First Check Team
UNICEF, allies roll out plan to combat mpox outbreak with new vaccine pacts
Published on : Sep 2, 2024UNICEF will set up conditional supply agreements with vaccine manufacturers...
: First Check Team
WHO calls for urgent review of mpox tests amid surge
Published on : Sep 2, 2024Congo emerges as the global epicenter of the epidemic, with...
: First Check Team
Role of accredited platforms in health information – An excerpt from First Check’s Coffee Table Book
Published on : Aug 31, 2024“Only accredited digital healthcare platforms with medicos on the panel...
: Dr Chandrika Kambam
Important to characterise long COVID in children: Study
Published on : Aug 30, 2024A recent study published in JAMA identifies common prolonged symptoms...
: First Check Team
‘Integrate assistive technology into primary healthcare, universal health coverage,’ says WHO chief
Published on : Aug 29, 2024The “Equipped for equity” campaign during the Paris 2024 Paralympic...
: First Check Team
Explainer: Ritlecitinib, a remedy for hair loss
Published on : Aug 28, 2024The first drug to be approved by the U.S. FDA...
: Pallav Vyas
Continued need to improve AI tools in healthcare: Study
Published on : Aug 27, 2024National Institutes of Health researchers find AI tools significantly less...
: First Check Team
FACT CHECK: Sugar does not induce hyperactivity in children
Published on : Aug 27, 2024Scientists find that sugar consumption does not affect the behaviour...
: Pallav Vyas
Fact-check: The link between vascularity & varicose veins
Published on : Aug 22, 2024Regular exercise is the best way to keep the muscles...
: Allen Joe Mathew
Explainer: Decoding LANS, a gamechanger in diagnosing cognitive degeneration
Published on : Aug 21, 2024Researchers at Mayo Clinic recently established new criteria for a...
: Pallav Vyas
Fact-check: Mpox is not limited to gays, bisexuals; anyone can get it
Published on : Aug 21, 2024The zoonotic disease is typically found in areas close to...
: First Check Team
EXPLAINER: Five common products that pose cancer risks & healthier alternatives
Published on : Aug 20, 2024While it’s difficult to completely avoid carcinogens in today’s world,...
: Deepika Khurana
Explainer: Why microplastics in food are damaging
Published on : Aug 20, 2024Indians with a high consumption of salt and sugar are...
: Pallav Vyas
Fact-check: Rosemary oil + coconut oil benefits for hair
Published on : Aug 14, 2024From tackling bacterial infections and scalp inflammation to preventing protein...
: Florica Brahma
‘Getting an updated COVID-19 vaccine remains an extremely effective tool’: Study
Published on : Aug 14, 2024Vaccines saved 1.6 million lives in Europe; COVID death toll...
: First Check Team
Explainer: What is ‘Teflon flu’?
Published on : Aug 13, 2024Polymer fume fever, an illness that can occur when Teflon-coated...
: Allen Joe Mathew
Fact-check: Vaseline intake not the secret to long life
Published on : Aug 13, 2024Robert Chesebrough, the American chemist who discovered petroleum jelly and...
: Allen Joe Mathew
Decline in vulture population causes half a million premature human deaths: Study
Published on : Aug 12, 2024Drastic reduction of these vital scavengers has allowed deadly bacteria...
: First Check Team
Explainer: How a blood thinner works as antidote to snakebite
Published on : Aug 5, 2024Scientists at the University of Sydney and the Liverpool School...
: Pallav Vyas
India commits US$ 85m to WHO for strengthening traditional medicine research
Published on : Aug 5, 2024The 10-year financial contribution to support a cross-sectoral programme of...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: The connection between sleep and feeling young
Published on : Aug 2, 2024Studies indicate that lack of sleep can accelerate the process...
: Deepika Khurana
World Breastfeeding Week: 820,000 children can be saved each year
Published on : Aug 1, 2024Breastfeeding reduces the burden of childhood illness, and the risk...
: First Check Team
Explainer: Decoding the social media conflict over hibiscus tea
Published on : Aug 1, 2024Hibiscus tea may have medicinal properties, but clinical research on...
: Allen Joe Mathew
14 modifiable risk factors key to preventing dementia: Study
Published on : Jul 31, 2024As per the latest report from the 2024 Lancet Commission,...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: Gel manicures and the risk of skin cancer
Published on : Jul 31, 2024While research suggests that radiation emitted by UV-nail polish dryers...
: Deepika Khurana
19 million adolescent girls experience intimate partner violence: WHO
Published on : Jul 30, 2024This needs to be taken more seriously as a public...
: First Check Team
EXPLAINER: What’s the connection between political ideology and health?
Published on : Jul 30, 2024While health plays a role in developing one’s political ideology,...
: Riyaz Wani
Fact-check: How heavy metal music impacts the mind
Published on : Jul 29, 2024Studies find that intense tempo and heavy bass doesn’t cause...
: Florica Brahma
World Hepatitis Day: Taking inspiration from Egypt’s hepatitis C triumph
Published on : Jul 29, 2024Egypt is the first country to achieve the gold tier...
: First Check Team
The critical role of fact-checking in health information– An excerpt from First Check’s Coffee Table Book
Published on : Jul 27, 2024It is crucial to actively debunk false claims, verify information...
: Zayed Aboali
Lessons from the latest health controversy on social media
Published on : Jul 26, 2024Recent controversy involving Indian actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Dr...
: Tej Kumar
India’s Union Budget 2024: Hits and misses for health sector
Published on : Jul 26, 2024Initiatives focused on health infrastructure development, digital health and mental...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: Women who carry the DNA of men
Published on : Jul 25, 2024The presence of male cells in women could be attributed...
: Allen Joe Mathew
The conundrum of COVID deaths: Claims and counterclaims
Published on : Jul 24, 2024While a recent study found that India recorded an estimated...
: First Check Team
Explainer: The link between microplastics and men’s reproductive health
Published on : Jul 24, 2024Recent discovery of microplastics in semen raises questions about the...
: Florica Brahma
The impact of climate change on lung cancer in Asia: The Lancet
Published on : Jul 23, 2024Environmental and lifestyle factors lead to early onset of lung...
: First Check Team
Explainer: Decoding spinal muscular atrophy
Published on : Jul 22, 2024SMN protein is produced inadequately leading to severely compromised bodily...
: Pallav Vyas
Polio virus detected in Gaza, WHO warns of global risk
Published on : Jul 22, 2024The origin of the virus, isolated from sewage samples in...
: First Check Team
How to cultivate a healthier information ecosystem – An excerpt from First Check’s Coffee Table Book
Published on : Jul 20, 2024Governments and private sector must work together to create efficient...
: Dr. Maulik Patel
Addressing the threat to global public health
Published on : Jul 19, 2024Experts consider the impact of upcoming US election results and...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: Spirulina rich in nutrition, but not essential for all
Published on : Jul 19, 2024Its unique composition has led NASA to incorporate spirulina into...
: Allen Joe Mathew
Explainer: The threat of Chandipura Virus
Published on : Jul 18, 2024The viral infection transmitted by sandflies, mosquitoes, and ticks, has...
: Pallav Vyas
Salmonella outbreak in the US linked to cucumbers
Published on : Jul 18, 2024Untreated canal water used by a cucumber grower was a...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: Tirzepatide aids weight loss, helps manage diabetes
Published on : Jul 16, 2024The drug suppresses appetite, while simultaneously slowing down digestion, so...
: Pallav Vyas
Decoding the link between formal education & Alzheimer’s disease
Published on : Jul 15, 2024Researchers suggest that formal education may help sustain cognitive function...
: First Check Team
5:2 intermittent fasting effective for managing early type 2 diabetes: Study
Published on : Jul 15, 2024Overweight or obese Chinese adults with early type 2 diabetes...
: First Check Team
Combining the reach of social media with the power of traditional media – An excerpt from First Check’s Coffee Table Book
Published on : Jul 13, 2024We pondered about the ways in which we can deliver...
: Qian Sun
Explainer: The little-known stiff person syndrome
Published on : Jul 12, 2024Recent Celine Dion video prompts conversations about the extremely rare...
: Pallav Vyas
FDA updates guidelines to combat misinformation on medical devices, drugs
Published on : Jul 12, 2024The revised draft guidance sets out a policy to support...
: First Check Team
LASA drugs pose significant public health threat in India: The Lancet
Published on : Jul 11, 2024The plethora of look-alike, sound-alike drugs are yet to catch...
: First Check Team
Explainer: Decoding Zika virus, prevention measures
Published on : Jul 10, 2024Explainer: Decoding Zika virus, prevention measures Given that there is...
: Pallav Vyas
Fact-check: Smoking harms oral health in numerous ways
Published on : Jul 9, 2024Reduced blood flow makes it tougher to detect gum disease...
: Allen Joe Mathew
WHO guideline for 750 million tobacco users seeking to quit
Published on : Jul 9, 2024The first-ever clinical treatment guideline for tobacco cessation in adults...
: First Check Team
Explainer: Why amoebic meningoencephalitis deaths in Kerala are disconcerting
Published on : Jul 8, 2024This could be a result of climate change, since rising...
: Pallav Vyas
GPs can play a crucial role in the fight against health misinformation – An excerpt from First Check’s Coffee Table Book
Published on : Jul 6, 2024There is an urgent need to promote health literacy and...
: Siti Fatimah
‘Concerning to see pseudo-experts encouraging the population to forgo sunscreen’
Published on : Jul 5, 2024The Ordre des chimistes du Québeche, a regulatory body in...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: 3 common myths about blood donation
Published on : Jul 5, 2024Healthy adults can donate blood regularly. Not age, but health...
: Pallav Vyas
Cigarette-style warnings on social media risks to protect children: US surgeon general
Published on : Jul 4, 2024Dr Vivek Murthy slammed social networks for emerging as an...
: First Check Team
Explainer: How oral semaglutide aids weight loss
Published on : Jul 3, 2024The first oral GLP 1 approved by the USFDA for...
: Pallav Vyas
Palestine’s oral health crisis amid conflict, poverty: Study
Published on : Jul 3, 2024Oral diseases are severely under-addressed globally, despite their prevalence and...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: Air fryer French fries a healthier choice
Published on : Jul 2, 2024Air fryers operate at similar temperatures to deep fryers, but...
: Allen Joe Mathew
The journey from melancholia to depression
Published on : Jul 1, 2024We now know more about the human mind than we...
: Riyaz Wani
Myths vs Facts: Topical Use of Steroids in Dermatological Conditions
Published on : Jun 28, 2024Despite being vital for treating inflammatory skin conditions, topical corticosteroids...
: Deepika Khurana
Study reveals alarming rise in global physical inactivity
Published on : Jun 27, 2024Rising global physical inactivity and increasing chronic disease risks highlight...
: First Check Team
WHO report highlights alcohol and drug impact
Published on : Jun 26, 2024The recent WHO report emphasises urgent global action to reduce...
: First Check Team
Japan reels under potentially fatal bacterial infection
Published on : Jun 25, 2024A critical health emergency has hit Japan, resulting in high...
: Pallav Vyas
Making Informed and Critical Health Decisions – An Excerpt From First Check’s Coffee Table Book
Published on : Jun 22, 2024Combatting health misinformation requires critical consumption of information, utilisation of...
: Dr. Akshay Jadhav
Fact-check: Cellulite is normal, doesn’t need to be fixed
Published on : Jun 21, 2024The cosmetic industry has capitalised on insecurities surrounding cellulite –...
: Allen Joe Mathew
Early intervention in gestational diabetes key to better health: Study
Published on : Jun 21, 2024The latest Lancet Series calls for the urgent need to...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: Easy remedies for muscle cramps
Published on : Jun 20, 2024Replenishing electrolytes like potassium and sodium, or stretching and massaging...
: Allen Joe Mathew
Explainer: Why typhoid fever is so hard to beat
Published on : Jun 19, 2024Access to clean drinking water, hygienic food, and typhoid vaccination...
: Pallav Vyas
Fact-check: Flawed rationale behind soaking nuts before consumption
Published on : Jun 19, 2024Studies find that soaking nuts does not improve gastrointestinal tolerance...
: Allen Joe Mathew
Optimal vitamin D intake for disease prevention: Guideline
Published on : Jun 18, 2024Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline focuses on supplementation guidance for...
: First Check Team
US military’s anti-vax campaign targeted Muslims to undermine China during pandemic: Report
Published on : Jun 18, 2024A key part of the strategy was to amplify the...
: First Check Team
Adopt eccentric walking to boost muscle strength, balance
Published on : Jun 14, 2024It can not only help in maintaining mobility and independence...
: Vani Singh
South Asian countries can support PPPs to introduce new antibiotics responsibly
Published on : Jun 13, 2024Given that AMR poses a significant health burden, particularly among...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: Turmeric supplements can induce liver injury
Published on : Jun 12, 2024While curcumin generally exhibits safe metabolism and low toxicity among...
: Pallav Vyas
High night-time temperatures increase stroke risk in older women: Study
Published on : Jun 11, 2024Researchers from Helmholtz Munich and the Augsburg University Hospital in...
: First Check Team
Explainer: Shingles is more than a painful rash
Published on : Jun 10, 2024The chickenpox vaccine is effective in preventing chickenpox as well...
: Pallav Vyas
When health misinformation thrives during uncertainty – An excerpt from First Check’s Coffee Table Book
Published on : Jun 8, 2024By building a culture of critical thinking and evidence-based discourse,...
: Abara Erim
Fact-check: Pros and cons of brown rice, white rice
Published on : Jun 7, 2024Brown rice contains higher levels of fibre and vitamins. However,...
: Aliya Zainab
Climate change poses significant health challenges for kids, elders, pregnant women: Study
Published on : Jun 6, 2024Nearly 2,50,000 additional deaths per year are estimated from malnutrition,...
: First Check Team
World Environment Day: Invest in breastfeeding for a sustainable world
Published on : Jun 5, 2024Feeding a baby with formula for the first six months...
: Allen Joe Mathew
Explainer: What is Japanese Encephalitis?
Published on : Jun 4, 2024The vector-borne disease spread by mosquitoes can lead to severe...
: Pallav Vyas
Importance of Academia-Media Collaboration in Fact-Checking – An Excerpt From First Check’s Coffee Table Book
Published on : Jun 1, 2024Collaboration between universities and media organisations can significantly strengthen the...
: Walter Balane
World No Tobacco Day: 7 evidence-based facts about tobacco use
Published on : May 31, 2024It’s high time we de-normalise tobacco use, given the massive...
: Allen Joe Mathew
Explainer: Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Published on : May 29, 2024There is no cure for IBS. However, dietary changes, medications,...
: Aliya Zainab
Vaccination averted 154 million deaths in 50 years: Study
Published on : May 29, 2024Vaccination accounted for 40 per cent of the observed decline...
: First Check Team
International Day of Action for Women’s Health: Female genital mutilation must end
Published on : May 28, 2024More than 200 million girls and women alive today have...
: Pallav Vyas
Fact-check: Spot reduction is a myth
Published on : May 27, 2024Targeted exercises can improve muscle tone and appearance, but they...
: Allen Joe Mathew
7,50,000 AMR-related deaths can be prevented annually: The Lancet
Published on : May 27, 2024Enhanced hand hygiene, equipment sterilisation, safe water, effective sanitation, and...
: First Check Team
Health Misinformation Across Borders – An Excerpt From First Check’s Coffee Table Book
Published on : May 25, 2024Health Misinformation is not a uniform phenomenon across the globe;...
: Safieh Shah
Fact-check: Heat stroke can be fatal
Published on : May 24, 2024The body temperature rises to about 40 degrees Celsius, coupled...
: Pallav Vyas
Curable sexually transmitted infections account for over one million daily cases: WHO
Published on : May 24, 2024In 2022, there were 2,30,000 syphilis-related deaths and 6,30,000 HIV-related...
: First Check Team
Explainer: How the menstrual cycle impacts the brain
Published on : May 23, 2024Advanced MRI techniques provide fascinating insights into how hormones influence...
: Vani Singh
Psychological inoculation works against health misinformation: JAMA
Published on : May 22, 2024Just as the body benefits from being exposed to low...
: First Check Team
Explainer: The spread of West Nile Virus
Published on : May 21, 2024Most infections are asymptomatic, while some manifest as moderate fever,...
: Pallav Vyas
Fact-check: The effect of alcohol on blood glucose levels
Published on : May 20, 2024While alcohol can affect blood sugar levels, as claimed in...
: Allen Joe Mathew
17 steps to combat obesity and diabetes: ICMR-NIN
Published on : May 20, 2024Intake of cereals should be limited to 45 per cent...
: First Check Team
Empowering Communities to Combat Health Misinformation – An Excerpt From First Check’s Coffee Table Book
Published on : May 18, 2024Simply restricting the dissemination of information may not be adequate;...
: Dr Ahmad Firdaus Mohd Haris
Explainer: What is vitrectomy?
Published on : May 17, 2024The risk of vitreous detachment increases with age, particularly among...
: Pallav Vyas
Infections associated with health care delivery represent a preventable tragedy: WHO
Published on : May 17, 2024Publishes the first global guidelines to prevent the occurrence of...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: Excess calcium intake can pose health risks
Published on : May 16, 2024While it may be easier to reach for a supplement,...
: Pallav Vyas
Wearing makeup during exercise not healthy for skin: Study
Published on : May 15, 2024In the age of social media trends such as...
: First Check Team
High BP affects almost 50% of American women: FDA
Published on : May 15, 2024Although one may not feel sick at first, if the...
: First Check Team
Explainer: Why protein supplements can be harmful
Published on : May 14, 2024Proteins from dietary sources can be equally effective in muscle...
: Pallav Vyas
Fides: WHO launches new initiative to combat health misinformation
Published on : May 13, 2024The aim is to build a network of healthcare influencers...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: Onions won’t help you beat the summer heat
Published on : May 13, 2024A recent video of an Indian politician talking to the...
: Allen Joe Mathew
Malaria vaccine saves two million kids : WHO 2023 Results Report
Published on : May 10, 2024The WHO's 2023 Results Report highlights the progress made in...
: First Check Team
Red Line Campaign: Spotlight on self-medication risks
Published on : May 9, 2024The awareness campaign by the Indian Ministry of Health and...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: Mango & its anti-cancer benefits
Published on : May 8, 2024Mangiferin, one of the most extensively investigated naturally occurring anti-cancer...
: Pallav Vyas
Fact-check: Reducing calories in rice by adding coconut oil
Published on : May 7, 2024Cooking rice along with any form of fat, not just...
: Allen Joe Mathew
Explainer: Can humans get avian flu?
Published on : May 6, 2024The extremely rare event of the virus mutating such that...
: Pallav Vyas
Food safety: 5 harmful chemicals in food products
Published on : May 2, 2024There’s an urgent need for transparent labelling, effective regulation, and...
: First Check Team
Mental health: The silent pandemic we are grappling with
Published on : May 1, 2024With over 150 million Indians requiring mental health care services,...
: Riyaz Wani
BIMLI: 5 key learnings in fighting health misinformation
Published on : Apr 30, 2024The Bihar Information and Media Literacy Initiative, conducted in partnership...
: Allen Joe Mathew
Fact-check: Turmeric latte can be injurious to health
Published on : Apr 29, 2024The popular drink may contain lead chromate, a toxic pigment...
: Pallav Vyas
Fact-check: Using cast iron cookware cannot guarantee meeting your daily iron needs
Published on : Apr 26, 2024While it can be a helpful supplement for those with...
: Vani Singh
Airborne pathogens to be called infectious respiratory particles: WHO
Published on : Apr 25, 2024The latest global technical consultation report addresses the issue of...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: No scientific evidence to prove Shatavari can cure infertility
Published on : Apr 24, 2024Limited research data is available to confirm the purported reproductive...
: Aliya Zainab
Explainer: 5 vitamins, besides vitamin D, for optimal bone health
Published on : Apr 23, 2024International Journal of Molecular Medicine article sheds light on the...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: Ads promote bogus diabetes cure on Indian news websites
Published on : Apr 22, 2024They endorse a dubious dietary supplement and unverified drug for...
: Allen Joe Mathew
World liver day: Understanding hepatitis
Published on : Apr 19, 2024The second leading infectious cause of death globally, every day,...
: Pallav Vyas
Light physical activity can improve metabolic health in children: Study
Published on : Apr 18, 2024Among overweight and obese youths, increased LPA linked with 20...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: The science behind using gold in skincare products
Published on : Apr 17, 2024Gold nanoparticles have antifungal, antibacterial and anti-ageing benefits. However, those...
: Pallav Vyas
Deep inequities, underreported suffering in global breast cancer battle: Report
Published on : Apr 16, 2024Lancet Commission report estimates global breast cancer incidence to rise...
: First Check Team
Explainer: What is diphtheria?
Published on : Apr 15, 2024Given the global surge in diphtheria incidence, it’s important to...
: Florica Brahma
World Parkinson’s Day: 5 science-backed facts about the disease
Published on : Apr 11, 2024From its perceived confinement to motor symptoms to fears surrounding...
: Vani Singh
Fact-check: 4 eye donation myths debunked
Published on : Apr 10, 2024The generous act of donating one’s corneas after death can...
: Pallav Vyas
India ‘Cancer capital of the world’: Report
Published on : Apr 9, 2024Apollo Hospitals’ Health of Nation report shows a concerning surge...
: First Check Team
Social cues shape perceptions of online information: Study
Published on : Apr 8, 2024By acknowledging the social aspects of online information consumption, the...
: First Check Team
Why health fact-checking is still important
Published on : Apr 5, 2024It’s not just COVID — it’s measles, HPV, fake cures...
: Jisha Krishnan
Fact-check: Castor oil is not a magic pill
Published on : Apr 4, 2024Contrary to what social media influencers may claim, castor oil...
: Allen Joe Mathew
Fact-check: Expert take on 6 tuberculosis myths
Published on : Apr 3, 2024TB is curable, but the biggest challenge remains the general...
: Deepika Khurana
Explainer: The hazards of vaginal whitening products
Published on : Apr 1, 2024Vaginal lightening promotes unhealthy body image ideals, and reflects cultural...
: Vani Singh
India gets first indigenous hydroxyurea oral suspension for SCD treatment
Published on : Mar 28, 2024The country ranks second worldwide in sickle cell disease incidence,...
: Allen Joe Mathew
Fact-check: The link between paracetamol and liver toxicity
Published on : Mar 27, 2024Excess acetaminophen intake is the leading cause of drug-induced liver...
: Pallav Vyas
Decoding health disinformation during elections
Published on : Mar 26, 2024In a year when the world’s oldest and the largest...
: Riyaz Wani
Explainer: Why moderation is crucial in caffeine consumption
Published on : Mar 22, 2024Excessive caffeine intake can lead to poor sleep quality, increased...
: Vani Singh
US launches Foreign Ministry Channel for Health Security to counter health misinformation, disinformation
Published on : Mar 21, 2024Climate change, growing regional instability, the rise of misinformation and...
: First Check Team
Pro tips to find scientific health information on social media
Published on : Mar 20, 2024Nutrition and fitness expert Layne Norton offers some sound advice...
: First Check Team
Lessons in fighting health misinformation from Nigeria
Published on : Mar 19, 2024Beyond short-term online campaigns, proactively engage with social media influencers...
: Abara Erim
Vaccine misinformation fuels measles resurgence in US
Published on : Mar 18, 202458 new measles cases reported by 17 jurisdictions, raising fears...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: Fasting cannot cure cancer
Published on : Mar 15, 2024Researchers caution against oversimplification as autophagy has been attributed tumour-suppressive...
: Allen Joe Mathew
Why we need to collaborate to fight health misinformation
Published on : Mar 13, 2024It is crucial to address issues comprehensively, combining efforts to...
: Dr Ahmad Firdaus Mohd Haris
Explainer: The presence of PFAS & BPA in your kitchen
Published on : Mar 12, 2024These chemicals can accumulate in the body over time, increasing...
: Vani Singh
Fact-check: Japanese water therapy & weight loss
Published on : Mar 11, 2024While drinking water on an empty stomach can temporarily boost...
: Deepika Khurana
Ultra-processed foods impact physical & mental health: Study
Published on : Mar 7, 2024Researchers find strong association between consumption of ultra-processed foods and...
: Vani Singh
Fact-check: The connection between gastric issues and stress in relationships
Published on : Mar 5, 2024Stress, anxiety, and unresolved emotional conflicts can manifest in various...
: Florica Brahma
Fact-check – Not all dietary fats are evil
Published on : Mar 4, 2024Inclusion of a variety of nutrient-dense fats as part of...
: Deepika Khurana
ADHD: A woman’s quest for understanding
Published on : Mar 1, 2024Being diagnosed as an individual with ADHD brought a mix...
: Vani Singh
Fact-check: Paternal smoking, obesity can harm unborn babies
Published on : Feb 29, 2024Researchers have identified notable associations between paternal factors and birth...
: Florica Brahma
Indian court takes firm stand on misleading health ads
Published on : Feb 28, 2024The Supreme Court orders immediate ban on all electronic and...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: Turmeric is not the magic pill for weight loss
Published on : Feb 23, 2024There is no robust study to support the claims on...
: Aliya Zainab
Fact-check: Not all cyanide exposures are murderous
Published on : Feb 21, 2024Estimating how lethal a dose can be is challenging, due...
: Florica Brahma
Exercise is an effective treatment for depression: Study
Published on : Feb 20, 2024While walking or jogging benefited both genders, strength training was...
: First Check Team
Explainer: How malaria vaccines can eradicate the disease
Published on : Feb 19, 2024There are two malaria vaccines recommended by the WHO, and...
: Florica Brahma
Fact-check: Working night shifts takes a toll on one’s health
Published on : Feb 16, 2024Apart from circadian misalignment and its effect on physical health,...
: Florica Brahma
Interview: ‘Misinformation can lead to misunderstandings about scientific facts’
Published on : Feb 14, 2024Dr Safieh Shah, First Check member and Canada-based senior policy...
: First Check Team
Explainer: The perils of protein deficiency
Published on : Feb 13, 2024Poor dietary choices, food insecurity, certain medical conditions, and vegetarian...
: Florica Brahma
AI-generated content cannot provide personalised medical advice: Study
Published on : Feb 12, 2024While ChatGPT 3.5 and 4.0 can serve as supplementary sources...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: Meatless diet can help fight climate change
Published on : Feb 9, 2024About 15% of global greenhouse emissions result from livestock farming,...
: Deepika Khurana
Fact-check: Eggs, fruits, oats are not unhealthy breakfast
Published on : Feb 7, 2024There isn’t much nutritional value to white bread though. A...
: Florica Brahma
Conspiracy theories major obstacle to new global pandemic treaty: WHO
Published on : Feb 6, 2024Despite lessons that should have been learned during COVID-19, the...
: First Check Team
Explainer: Why HPV vaccination is the most effective strategy against cervical cancer
Published on : Feb 5, 2024The fourth-most prevalent cancer among women globally, cervical cancer has...
: Florica Brahma
Use behavioural science to fight health misinformation: Study
Published on : Feb 2, 2024Latest research underscores the importance of recognising the content, tactics...
: First Check Team
Leprosy: 3 myths that refuse to die
Published on : Feb 1, 2024Despite being one of the oldest diseases known to mankind,...
: Florica Brahma
Explainer: Understanding thyroid disorders
Published on : Jan 30, 2024Greater awareness empowers individuals to recognise early symptoms, seek timely...
: Aliya Zainab
Measles: Misinformation-fuelled vaccine hesitancy puts children’s lives at risk
Published on : Jan 26, 2024The CDC reported that measles cases in 2022 increased by...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: Consume beans for better digestion, weight loss
Published on : Jan 25, 2024Instagram video is right about the positive impact of consuming...
: Florica Brahma
Video gamers at risk of irreversible hearing loss, tinnitus: Study
Published on : Jan 24, 2024Researchers note the need to consider permissible noise levels and...
: First Check Team
Decline in tobacco use rates globally: WHO
Published on : Jan 18, 2024Currently the WHO South-East Asian Region has the highest percentage...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: No need to walk 10,000 steps daily to stay fit
Published on : Jan 16, 2024Research findings underscore the importance of prioritising the quality and...
: Florica Brahma
A pill or injection can’t address the complexities of obesity: Lancet
Published on : Jan 16, 2024Weight loss is only maintained while taking the drugs; once...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: No magic diet can cure it all
Published on : Jan 15, 2024The hype about Master Cleanse, Mono Diet, or Mediterranean diet...
: Deepika Khurana
Moderate to vigorous physical activity can help COPD patients: Study
Published on : Jan 11, 2024Getting 20 minutes of intense activity at least three days...
: First Check Team
Explainer: What is SAD?
Published on : Jan 9, 2024Individuals with limited access to natural light, such as those...
: Florica Brahma
3 good reasons to walk more in 2024
Published on : Jan 8, 2024Incorporating walking into one’s daily routine is a convenient and...
: Florica Brahma
Menstrual hygiene: The health crisis we don’t talk about
Published on : Jan 4, 2024Social media posts shed light on the plights of countless...
: Florica Brahma
Climate change debate: putting health first
Published on : Jan 4, 2024Despite the enormous global attention being paid to climate change,...
: Riyaz Wani
Social media listening crucial for tackling infodemic’s impact on health: Study
Published on : Jan 3, 2024‘Informing social media analysis for public health: a cross-sectional survey...
: First Check Team
Explainer: How dangerous is the JN.1 COVID variant?
Published on : Dec 22, 2023JN.1 was identified in the US in September 2023, exhibiting...
: Florica Brahma
Fact-check: Meftal is not unsafe for use
Published on : Dec 15, 2023In its latest advisory, the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission has stated...
: Florica Brahma
Explainer: Making sense of White Lung Syndrome
Published on : Dec 11, 2023While the exact cause of the outbreak is under investigation,...
: Florica Brahma
Explainer: Why the Supreme Court of India reprimanded Baba Ramdev
Published on : Dec 7, 2023This is not a debate on “Allopathy vs Ayurveda”, but...
: Tej Kumar
Critical gap in cancer trials in India, finds study
Published on : Dec 5, 2023Several states in Northeast India had no registered clinical trials...
: First Check Team
World AIDS Day: Debunking 4 myths about the disease
Published on : Dec 1, 2023Research consistently indicates that individuals, irrespective of their age, gender,...
: Florica Brahma
Fact-check: Japan hasn’t banned BHT due to health risks
Published on : Nov 23, 2023BHT is a lab-made chemical that is permitted for use...
: Florica Brahma
Delay umbilical cord clamping by two minutes to reduce premature baby deaths, says study
Published on : Nov 20, 2023It allows blood to flow from the placenta to the...
: First Check Team
Explainer: What is “fried rice syndrome”?
Published on : Nov 17, 2023Bacillus cereus can exist on raw rice, and if it’s...
: Florica Brahma
370% rise in heat-related deaths by 2050 if climate goals unmet: The Lancet report
Published on : Nov 16, 2023The 2023 report of the Lancet Countdown on health and...
: First Check Team
Explainer: The toll of war on mental health
Published on : Nov 3, 2023The mental scars of undergoing trauma, or even witnessing traumatic...
: Pratibha
Explainer: Why long work hours are injurious to health
Published on : Oct 30, 2023From cardiovascular disease and heightened stress levels, to depression, anxiety...
: Florica Brahma
Fact-check: Sweet salads don’t impact masculinity
Published on : Oct 27, 2023The association of sweets with femininity has historically led to...
: Tej Kumar
Rise of anti-science movement claims millions of lives, warns researcher
Published on : Oct 19, 2023In his book ‘The Deadly Rise of Anti-Science: a Scientist’s...
: First Check Team
Debunking 5 myths on Nipah Virus
Published on : Oct 16, 2023In the digital age, information spreads like wildfire, often faster...
: Florica Brahma
Nipah virus infection: 10 facts
Published on : Oct 12, 2023It’s important to be informed about the infection; don’t be...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: Want to become taller? Ashwagandha is not the answer!
Published on : Oct 9, 2023Height is primarily determined by genetics, and the growth plates...
: Florica Brahma
Fact-check: Papaya seeds not for contraception, inducing menstruation, or improving hormonal balance
Published on : Oct 6, 2023Studies suggest that it’s best not to consume papaya seeds...
: Tej Kumar
The curious case of The Liver Doc & how it can impact health misinformation
Published on : Oct 5, 2023Dr Cyriac Abby Philips’ X account was recently suspended, following...
: Jisha Krishnan
Fact-check: No harm in consuming bananas and milk together
Published on : Oct 5, 2023They are good additions to support post-workout recovery for muscle and...
: Pratibha
Hypertension affects one in three adults globally: WHO global report on hypertension
Published on : Sep 21, 2023The first-of-its-kind, comprehensive analysis finds that currently, only one in...
: First Check Team
Fact-check: Dietary choices, physical activity not the only determinants of weight gain
Published on : Sep 21, 2023Maintenance of healthy body weight is also affected by one’s...
: Florica Brahma
Fact-check: The link between biodiversity and mental health
Published on : Sep 18, 2023There’s an urgent need to prioritise the health of our...
: Florica Brahma
Fact-check: Irradiated foods are not radioactive
Published on : Sep 11, 2023During irradiation, gamma rays, x-rays, or high-energy electrons pass through...
: Florica Brahma
Menopause: Shining light on vital facts
Published on : Sep 4, 2023Numerous symptoms attributed to menopause often occur in the perimenopausal...
: Florica Brahma
Fact-check: Can the use of plastic food containers cause cancer?
Published on : Sep 4, 2023The safety of storing food in plastic containers, typically, depends...
: Florica Brahma
Fact-check: 5 common myths about conjunctivitis
Published on : Aug 29, 2023Dr Vijitha S Vempuluru, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Ophthalmology, AIIMS...
: Florica Brahma
Explainer: What causes high cholesterol?
Published on : Aug 25, 2023Cutting down on the consumption of processed foods and processed...
: Florica Brahma
Fact-check: Higher water intake doesn’t assure weight loss
Published on : Aug 24, 2023Overhydration can lead to water poisoning, intoxication, or disruption of...
: Florica Brahma
Fact-check: Alkaline water can’t cure liver and kidney failure
Published on : Aug 21, 2023While there are several claims made about the health benefits...
: Tej Kumar
Explainer: What BMI can and cannot tell you about your health
Published on : Aug 9, 2023Ideally suited for population-level studies, describing obesity by BMI can...
: Florica Brahma
Fact-check: Debunking 3 myths about veganism
Published on : Aug 4, 2023Proteins are not only found in meat and dairy products,...
: Florica Brahma
Fact-check: Almond skins do not cause cancer
Published on : Jul 24, 2023The skin of almonds is rich in fibre due to...
: Pratibha
Movie Review: Silver Linings Playbook has a silver lining
Published on : Jul 21, 2023Even as the film highlights mental illness and its struggles,...
: Aliya Zainab
Explainer: Understanding ADHD
Published on : Jul 18, 2023A common neurodevelopmental disorder, it calls for comprehensive understanding for...
: Aliya Zainab
Combatting health misinformation in the age of ChatGPT
Published on : Jul 7, 2023Questions you can ask to ascertain whether the health information...
: Jisha Krishnan
Explainer: Making informed decisions about hysterectomy
Published on : Jul 4, 2023Depending on the individual case and the underlying condition, the...
: Aliya Zainab
Explainer: What is postpartum depression?
Published on : Jun 24, 2023It can cause various physical, emotional, and behavioural symptoms. Treatment...
: Aliya Zainab
Movie review: Tully is an honest exploration of postpartum depression
Published on : Jun 16, 2023The captivating movie dives deep into the rollercoaster of postpartum...
: Aliya Zainab
Fact-check: Clove oil may provide temporary relief from toothache, but it can be toxic.
Published on : Jun 13, 2023Using dried clove or clove oil may induce liver harm,...
: Naveed Ahmad Najar
Book review : Lady Doctors is an inspiring read
Published on : Jun 5, 2023From fighting societal norms to improving access to healthcare and...
: Jisha Krishnan
Menstrual Hygiene: Debunking 5 common myths
Published on : May 29, 2023Dr Shehla Jamal, a menstrual health expert from New Delhi,...
: Zoya Hussain
Fact-check: Kids can be given deworming pill in all weathers
Published on : May 26, 2023Deworming tablets, such as Albendazole and Mebendazole, can be taken...
: Naveed Ahmad Najar
Explainer: What is hypertension?
Published on : May 17, 2023This World Hypertension Day, let’s manage blood pressure better with...
: Sharmila Saha Roy
World Hypertension Day 2023: Important facts about high blood pressure
Published on : May 17, 2023Dr Ashwani Mehta, a senior cardiologist at Sir Ganga Ram...
: Zoya Hussain
Fact-check: Shaving does not promote hair growth
Published on : May 12, 2023It is a complex process influenced by various factors, such...
: Naveed Ahmad Najar
Explainer: Why there’s no reason to fear people with dissociative identity disorder
Published on : May 9, 2023Inaccurate portrayals of people with DID in mainstream media highlight...
: Toibah Kirmani
Explainer: Why long nails are a health hazard
Published on : May 2, 2023One of the primary concerns with long nails is the...
: Toibah Kirmani
Fact-check: Vaping not a safe alternative to smoking
Published on : Apr 25, 2023There are potential long-term health risks associated with the use...
: Zoya Hussain
Explainer: Why processed foods are harmful to health
Published on : Apr 19, 2023Processed foods can lead people to consume more than the...
: Toibah Kirmani
Fact-check: MSG is safe for human consumption
Published on : May 11, 2022Despite several claims of adverse health effects of MSG, studies...
: Pratibha
When social media blows up hazards of drinking water
Published on : Jan 6, 2022Some studies suggest that consuming eight glasses of water per...
: Tej Kumar
Bottle gourd juice can be toxic
Published on : Nov 19, 2021Research has established that consumption of bitter bottle gourd juice...
: Tej Kumar
What The Fact! – How information deficits fuel misinformation
Published on : Nov 16, 2021People tend to engage more with misinformation than factual information....
: Varadarajan Ananthakrishnan
Myths vs. facts about breast cancer
Published on : Oct 27, 2021October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to...
: Dr. Poovamma CU
Homoeopathic medicine Aspidosperma Q does not instantly increase oxygen levels
Published on : May 1, 2021Intake of a few drops of Aspidosperma Q in water...
: Pushpita Dey
No, an empty nebuliser is not a substitute for oxygen cylinder
Published on : Apr 26, 2021Using a nebuliser in place of an oxygen cylinder will...