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<p>Global health data shows that nearly 30 per cent of working adults regularly sleep for less than seven hours a night. While trimming an hour of rest to catch up on office emails or television routines feels harmless, sleep deficit compounds quickly. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), adults require seven to nine hours of continuous rest for cellular repair. Falling short triggers measurable biological changes that affect your heart, weight, and mental alertness within days.</p><h2>Cognitive slowdown and memory interference</h2><p>Your brain relies on deep sleep cycles to process daily information and clear out toxic metabolic waste. According to clinical data from the National Sleep Foundation, getting less than seven hours of rest reduces problem-solving skills and slows down reaction times by up to 30 per cent.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>During normal rest, the brain transfers short-term memories into long-term storage. When your sleep drops to six hours or fewer, this consolidation process breaks down. People experiencing sleep loss struggle with focus, misplace daily items, and show reduced decision-making ability during work hours.</p><h2>Hormone imbalances and sudden weight gain</h2><p>Sleep deprivation disrupts the hormones that manage your appetite. According to a report published in the <i>Annals of Internal Medicine</i>, sleeping under seven hours causes a 15 per cent spike in ghrelin, the hormone that makes you feel hungry. At the same time, it lowers leptin, the chemical that tells your brain your stomach is full.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Because of this hormonal shift, tired individuals consume an average of 300 to 400 extra calories the following day. The body also becomes less effective at processing blood sugar, which triggers sudden cravings for salty snacks and refined carbohydrates.</p><h2>Increased strain on your heart and blood pressure</h2><p>When you sleep comfortably, your blood pressure naturally drops by roughly 10 per cent. Doctors call this daily dip nocturnal dipping. If you regularly sleep for less than seven hours, your body stays in a state of alert, keeping your blood pressure elevated throughout the night.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to research from the American Heart Association, adults who consistently survive on six hours of sleep face a 20 per cent higher risk of developing hypertension. Over several years, this ongoing nighttime pressure strains the heart and blood vessels.</p><h2>Weakened immune defences against infections</h2><p>Your immune system produces defensive proteins called cytokines while you sleep. These proteins fight off infections, bodily inflammation, and routine stresses.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A clinical study by the University of California found that individuals sleeping fewer than six hours a night were four times more likely to catch the common cold compared to those getting seven hours or more. When rest is cut short, the body produces fewer antibodies, leaving you exposed to seasonal flu and longer recovery times.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Improving sleep hygiene requires consistent habits rather than weekend catch-ups. Keeping a fixed sleep schedule, dimming screens an hour before bed, and keeping your bedroom cool remain the simplest ways to secure seven hours of restorative rest.</p>

Global health studies show that sleeping less than seven hours daily affects mental sharpness, hormone balance, and heart health. From increased hunger hormones to elevated nighttime blood pressure, chronic sleep deficit triggers physical shifts that weaken immune defences over time.

Global health data shows that nearly 30 per cent of working adults regularly sleep for less than seven hours a night. While trimming an hour of rest to catch up on office emails or television routines feels harmless, sleep deficit compounds quickly. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), adults require seven to nine hours of continuous rest for cellular repair. Falling short triggers measurable biological changes that affect your heart, weight, and mental alertness within days. Cognitive slowdown and memory interference Your brain relies on deep sleep cycles to process daily information and clear out toxic metabolic waste. According to clinical data from the National Sleep Foundation, getting less than seven hours of rest reduces problem-solving skills and slows down reaction times by up to 30 per cent. During normal rest, the brain transfers short-term memories into long-term storage. When your sleep drops to six hours or fewer, this consolidation process breaks down. People experiencing sleep loss struggle with focus, misplace daily items, and show reduced decision-making ability during work hours. Hormone imbalances and sudden weight gain Sleep deprivation disrupts the hormones that manage your appetite. According to a report published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, sleeping under seven hours causes a 15 per cent spike in ghrelin, the hormone that makes you feel hungry. At the same time, it lowers leptin, the chemical that tells your brain your stomach is full. Because of this hormonal shift, tired individuals consume an average of 300 to 400 extra calories the following day. The body also becomes less effective at processing blood sugar, which triggers sudden cravings for salty snacks and refined carbohydrates. Increased strain on your heart and blood pressure When you sleep comfortably, your blood pressure naturally drops by roughly 10 per cent. Doctors call this daily dip nocturnal dipping. If you regularly sleep for less than seven hours, your body stays in a state of alert, keeping your blood pressure elevated throughout the night. According to research from the American Heart Association, adults who consistently survive on six hours of sleep face a 20 per cent higher risk of developing hypertension. Over several years, this ongoing nighttime pressure strains the heart and blood vessels. Weakened immune defences against infections Your immune system produces defensive proteins called cytokines while you sleep. These proteins fight off infections, bodily inflammation, and routine stresses. A clinical study by the University of California found that individuals sleeping fewer than six hours a night were four times more likely to catch the common cold compared to those getting seven hours or more. When rest is cut short, the body produces fewer antibodies, leaving you exposed to seasonal flu and longer recovery times. Improving sleep hygiene requires consistent habits rather than weekend catch-ups. Keeping a fixed sleep schedule, dimming screens an hour before bed, and keeping your bedroom cool remain the simplest ways to secure seven hours of restorative rest.

<p>Global health studies show that sleeping less than seven hours daily affects mental sharpness, hormone balance, and heart health. From increased hunger hormones to elevated nighttime blood pressure, chronic sleep deficit triggers physical shifts that weaken immune defences over time.</p>

Are you sleeping less than seven hours? Here's what you should know

<p>Water is essential for healthy digestion, blood circulation, and joint lubrication. Yet, many adults navigate daily routines experiencing mild dehydration without realising their fluid levels are low. Because thirst is not always a reliable or immediate warning sign of fluid deficit, recognising early clinical and physical indicators can help you avoid persistent fatigue, headaches, and dizziness. Here are key signs to watch for every day.</p><h2>Dark or strong-smelling urine and infrequent breaks</h2><p>Monitoring urine colour is one of the most reliable ways to track your hydration levels. According to guidance from the National Health Service (NHS), healthy urine should be pale straw or clear. When daily fluid intake drops, the kidneys retain water to protect vital organs. This results in concentrated, dark amber urine with a noticeably stronger smell. Visiting the washroom fewer than three or four times a day is another factual indicator that your fluid intake is falling short.</p><h2>Sudden fatigue, headaches, and reduced concentration</h2><p>Even a mild drop in total body water, between 1 and 3 per cent of body weight can directly impact cognitive performance. Clinical benchmarks published in peer-reviewed medical literature indicate that fluid loss lowers overall circulating blood volume. To compensate, the heart works harder to pump oxygen to the brain and muscles. This slight drop in circulation frequently triggers mid-day lethargy, tension headaches, and difficulty focusing on routine tasks.</p><h2>Dry mouth, chapped lips, and skin elasticity</h2><p>Saliva production relies heavily on adequate daily water intake. A persistent dry mouth, sticky tongue, or chapped lips points directly to reduced saliva secretion. Furthermore, dehydration affects skin elasticity, referred to medically as skin turgor. If you gently pinch the skin on your arm or abdomen and it takes several seconds to snap back flat, your cellular tissue requires hydration.</p><h2>Lightheadedness when standing up</h2><p>If you experience brief dizziness upon standing up after sitting, you may be experiencing mild orthostatic symptoms caused by low fluid levels. According to medical reports, reduced circulating blood volume can cause temporary drops in blood pressure when changing posture.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Health authorities like the NHS recommend drinking six to eight glasses, or roughly 1.2 to 1.5 litres, of fluids daily. Consistent sipping throughout the day, rather than drinking large quantities at once, supports kidney function and steady energy levels. Keeping a water bottle nearby ensures your body stays balanced.</p>

Water is vital for circulation, digestion, and mental focus. Recognising early physical warnings of mild dehydration, such as dark urine, frequent headaches, dry mouth, and reduced skin elasticity, helps maintain daily alertness and protect vital organ function.

Water is essential for healthy digestion, blood circulation, and joint lubrication. Yet, many adults navigate daily routines experiencing mild dehydration without realising their fluid levels are low. Because thirst is not always a reliable or immediate warning sign of fluid deficit, recognising early clinical and physical indicators can help you avoid persistent fatigue, headaches, and dizziness. Here are key signs to watch for every day. Dark or strong-smelling urine and infrequent breaks Monitoring urine colour is one of the most reliable ways to track your hydration levels. According to guidance from the National Health Service (NHS), healthy urine should be pale straw or clear. When daily fluid intake drops, the kidneys retain water to protect vital organs. This results in concentrated, dark amber urine with a noticeably stronger smell. Visiting the washroom fewer than three or four times a day is another factual indicator that your fluid intake is falling short. Sudden fatigue, headaches, and reduced concentration Even a mild drop in total body water, between 1 and 3 per cent of body weight can directly impact cognitive performance. Clinical benchmarks published in peer-reviewed medical literature indicate that fluid loss lowers overall circulating blood volume. To compensate, the heart works harder to pump oxygen to the brain and muscles. This slight drop in circulation frequently triggers mid-day lethargy, tension headaches, and difficulty focusing on routine tasks. Dry mouth, chapped lips, and skin elasticity Saliva production relies heavily on adequate daily water intake. A persistent dry mouth, sticky tongue, or chapped lips points directly to reduced saliva secretion. Furthermore, dehydration affects skin elasticity, referred to medically as skin turgor. If you gently pinch the skin on your arm or abdomen and it takes several seconds to snap back flat, your cellular tissue requires hydration. Lightheadedness when standing up If you experience brief dizziness upon standing up after sitting, you may be experiencing mild orthostatic symptoms caused by low fluid levels. According to medical reports, reduced circulating blood volume can cause temporary drops in blood pressure when changing posture. Health authorities like the NHS recommend drinking six to eight glasses, or roughly 1.2 to 1.5 litres, of fluids daily. Consistent sipping throughout the day, rather than drinking large quantities at once, supports kidney function and steady energy levels. Keeping a water bottle nearby ensures your body stays balanced.

<p>Water is vital for circulation, digestion, and mental focus. Recognising early physical warnings of mild dehydration, such as dark urine, frequent headaches, dry mouth, and reduced skin elasticity, helps maintain daily alertness and protect vital organ function.</p>

Signs you're not drinking enough water every day

<h2>Why dermatologists warn against product overload</h2><p>Piling on numerous serums, exfoliating acids, and complex creams frequently backfires. The same dermatological report indicates that 88 per cent of medical specialists regularly treat patients suffering from irritant eczema, allergic contact dermatitis, and compromised skin barriers directly caused by cosmetic overload.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Rather than purchasing more serums, dermatologists recommend stripping back daily routines to basic cleansing and hydration. Washing with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser protects the epidermis, allowing its natural lipid barrier to repair itself without chemical disruption.</p><h2>Daily sun protection shields collagen and elastin</h2><p>Guidance from the British Association of Dermatologists highlights that ultraviolet radiation remains the primary environmental driver of premature skin ageing. Ultraviolet rays degrade vital dermal fibres known as collagen and elastin, leading to fine lines and loss of firmness over time.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The association recommends applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and a 4 or 5-star UVA rating roughly 15 to 30 minutes before stepping outdoors. Consistent sun protection preserves structural skin elasticity far better than expensive anti-ageing creams applied after sun damage occurs.</p><h2>Restorative sleep reduces cellular water loss</h2><p>While luxury overnight masks promise instant moisture, genuine tissue repair occurs biologically during deep sleep cycles. According to clinical research published in <i>Clinical and Experimental Dermatology</i>, sleeping fewer than six hours a night triggers a 30 per cent increase in transepidermal water loss.</p><p>This chronic sleep deficit weakens the protective skin barrier, reduces physical elasticity, and significantly slows down recovery from daily sun exposure. Securing seven to eight hours of continuous rest allows growth hormones to stimulate natural collagen production overnight.</p><h2>Nutrient-rich diets and simple hydration</h2><p>Internal nourishment provides the cellular building blocks required for healthy skin turnover. Eating a balanced diet packed with fresh vegetables, antioxidant-rich fruits, and lean proteins helps neutralise environmental free radicals. Paired with drinking six to eight glasses of fluid daily, as recommended by the National Health Service, these straightforward dietary habits maintain healthy circulation and skin firmness from within.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Achieving a clear complexion does not require spending hundreds of pounds on luxury formulations. By committing to simple daily habits such as disciplined sun protection, gentle cleansing, restorative sleep, and proper hydration, you give your body the exact tools it needs to maintain naturally resilient skin.</p>

According to clinical research, over 91 per cent of dermatologists warn against complex skincare routines. Achieving healthy skin relies on daily habits like broad-spectrum sun protection, restorative sleep, gentle cleansing, and proper hydration rather than expensive cosmetic products.

Why dermatologists warn against product overload Piling on numerous serums, exfoliating acids, and complex creams frequently backfires. The same dermatological report indicates that 88 per cent of medical specialists regularly treat patients suffering from irritant eczema, allergic contact dermatitis, and compromised skin barriers directly caused by cosmetic overload. Rather than purchasing more serums, dermatologists recommend stripping back daily routines to basic cleansing and hydration. Washing with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser protects the epidermis, allowing its natural lipid barrier to repair itself without chemical disruption. Daily sun protection shields collagen and elastin Guidance from the British Association of Dermatologists highlights that ultraviolet radiation remains the primary environmental driver of premature skin ageing. Ultraviolet rays degrade vital dermal fibres known as collagen and elastin, leading to fine lines and loss of firmness over time. The association recommends applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and a 4 or 5-star UVA rating roughly 15 to 30 minutes before stepping outdoors. Consistent sun protection preserves structural skin elasticity far better than expensive anti-ageing creams applied after sun damage occurs. Restorative sleep reduces cellular water loss While luxury overnight masks promise instant moisture, genuine tissue repair occurs biologically during deep sleep cycles. According to clinical research published in Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, sleeping fewer than six hours a night triggers a 30 per cent increase in transepidermal water loss. This chronic sleep deficit weakens the protective skin barrier, reduces physical elasticity, and significantly slows down recovery from daily sun exposure. Securing seven to eight hours of continuous rest allows growth hormones to stimulate natural collagen production overnight. Nutrient-rich diets and simple hydration Internal nourishment provides the cellular building blocks required for healthy skin turnover. Eating a balanced diet packed with fresh vegetables, antioxidant-rich fruits, and lean proteins helps neutralise environmental free radicals. Paired with drinking six to eight glasses of fluid daily, as recommended by the National Health Service, these straightforward dietary habits maintain healthy circulation and skin firmness from within. Achieving a clear complexion does not require spending hundreds of pounds on luxury formulations. By committing to simple daily habits such as disciplined sun protection, gentle cleansing, restorative sleep, and proper hydration, you give your body the exact tools it needs to maintain naturally resilient skin.

<p>According to clinical research, over 91 per cent of dermatologists warn against complex skincare routines. Achieving healthy skin relies on daily habits like broad-spectrum sun protection, restorative sleep, gentle cleansing, and proper hydration rather than expensive cosmetic products.</p>

Why healthy skin starts with everyday habits, not expensive products

<p><strong>New Delhi:</strong> Medha Jaishankar, a Los Angeles-based filmmaker known for producing features like ‘He Went That Way’ (starring Jacob Elordi and Zachary Quinto) and ‘Please Don’t Feed the Children’, has joined the advisory board of Aaroogya AI Foundation. The move coincides with the Indian organisation’s plans to take its AI-powered women’s health platform international.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A member of the Pacific Council on International Policy, Medha brings expertise in storytelling, international advocacy, and emerging technologies. Her personal connection to women’s health issues, including family experience with breast cancer, drew her to the cause.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Datta sisters, Priyanjali and Shyanjali, founded (and now lead) the Aaroogya AI Foundation after their own family’s health struggles. Their mother was diagnosed with Essential Thrombocytosis, a rare blood disorder, and Shyanjali was born with a rare condition that required multiple surgeries. These experiences inspired them to create accessible, compassionate healthcare solutions. The name “Aaroogya” comes from Sanskrit for holistic well-being.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Priyanjali, a former medical student turned tech entrepreneur and product growth leader, co-founded the initiative. Shyanjali serves as CEO and has been instrumental in scaling operations. The sisters hail from Meghalaya and started the work in 2017, well before AI became mainstream. Aaroogya has built AAHA, a voice-based multilingual AI agent that lets community health workers screen women through natural conversation, triage symptoms, and flag serious conditions like breast cancer, PCOS, or anaemia.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>So far, it has screened over 137,000 women, trained more than 4,000 health workers, contributed to 23,740 early diagnoses and boosted treatment adherence to 87%. Its MyHealthline platform supports frontline workers in low-resource areas, delivering proactive care that the organisation says generates three times the social return on investment.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Medha Jaishankar praised the Datta sisters for building a system that truly “sees” women. She said, “They turned their personal pain into a platform that is saving lives at scale. I joined Aaroogya’s board because this work deserves to reach every corner of the world, and I know what it is to need a system that actually sees you.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Explaining further, she said, “Women’s health deserves to be at the centre, everywhere. Aaroogya is proof that when you truly centre women’s lives, real change follows. I am honoured to help carry that message forward.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Aaroogya prepares to expand beyond India into other low- and middle-income countries with stretched women’s health services. The foundation operates with a cross-continental team in California and India, adapting its tools to local public health systems while emphasising ethics, empathy, and privacy.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Women’s health remains a significant challenge in many parts of the world, with late diagnoses and limited access to screening contributing to high mortality rates in low- and middle-income countries. Supporters see AI tools like Aaroogya’s as a potential way to bridge gaps where doctors and specialists are scarce.</p>

Aaroogya prepares to expand beyond India into other low- and middle-income countries with stretched women’s health services. The foundation operates with a cross-continental team in California and India, adapting its tools to local public health systems.

New Delhi: Medha Jaishankar, a Los Angeles-based filmmaker known for producing features like ‘He Went That Way’ (starring Jacob Elordi and Zachary Quinto) and ‘Please Don’t Feed the Children’, has joined the advisory board of Aaroogya AI Foundation. The move coincides with the Indian organisation’s plans to take its AI-powered women’s health platform international. A member of the Pacific Council on International Policy, Medha brings expertise in storytelling, international advocacy, and emerging technologies. Her personal connection to women’s health issues, including family experience with breast cancer, drew her to the cause. The Datta sisters, Priyanjali and Shyanjali, founded (and now lead) the Aaroogya AI Foundation after their own family’s health struggles. Their mother was diagnosed with Essential Thrombocytosis, a rare blood disorder, and Shyanjali was born with a rare condition that required multiple surgeries. These experiences inspired them to create accessible, compassionate healthcare solutions. The name “Aaroogya” comes from Sanskrit for holistic well-being. Priyanjali, a former medical student turned tech entrepreneur and product growth leader, co-founded the initiative. Shyanjali serves as CEO and has been instrumental in scaling operations. The sisters hail from Meghalaya and started the work in 2017, well before AI became mainstream. Aaroogya has built AAHA, a voice-based multilingual AI agent that lets community health workers screen women through natural conversation, triage symptoms, and flag serious conditions like breast cancer, PCOS, or anaemia. So far, it has screened over 137,000 women, trained more than 4,000 health workers, contributed to 23,740 early diagnoses and boosted treatment adherence to 87%. Its MyHealthline platform supports frontline workers in low-resource areas, delivering proactive care that the organisation says generates three times the social return on investment. Medha Jaishankar praised the Datta sisters for building a system that truly “sees” women. She said, “They turned their personal pain into a platform that is saving lives at scale. I joined Aaroogya’s board because this work deserves to reach every corner of the world, and I know what it is to need a system that actually sees you.” Explaining further, she said, “Women’s health deserves to be at the centre, everywhere. Aaroogya is proof that when you truly centre women’s lives, real change follows. I am honoured to help carry that message forward.” Aaroogya prepares to expand beyond India into other low- and middle-income countries with stretched women’s health services. The foundation operates with a cross-continental team in California and India, adapting its tools to local public health systems while emphasising ethics, empathy, and privacy. Women’s health remains a significant challenge in many parts of the world, with late diagnoses and limited access to screening contributing to high mortality rates in low- and middle-income countries. Supporters see AI tools like Aaroogya’s as a potential way to bridge gaps where doctors and specialists are scarce.

<p>Aaroogya prepares to expand beyond India into other low- and middle-income countries with stretched women’s health services. The foundation operates with a cross-continental team in California and India, adapting its tools to local public health systems.</p>

From cinema to care: Filmmaker Medha Jaishankar champions AI health tech for marginalised women

<p>Waking up with sudden breakouts despite maintaining a strict daily skincare routine can be deeply frustrating. While many people are quick to blame their diet or hormonal changes, the actual cause might be resting right under your head. Dermatologists suggest that unwashed pillowcases are a major, yet often overlooked, trigger for acne and skin irritation. Understanding how your everyday bedding interacts with your face is essential for achieving a healthier complexion.</p><h2><strong>The Hidden Bacteria in Your Bedding</strong></h2><p>Every night, the human body sheds millions of dead skin cells. Along with natural oils, night sweats, and remnants of hair products, these microscopic particles accumulate directly on your pillowcase. According to sleep hygiene research, a pillowcase left unwashed for a single week can harbour thousands of times more bacteria than a standard toilet seat. When you press your face against this unwashed surface for seven to eight hours a night, the accumulated bacteria transfer back onto your skin, clogging pores and triggering inflammation.</p><h2><strong>Understanding Acne Mechanica</strong></h2><p>Skin problems caused by bedding are often classified as acne mechanica. This specific condition occurs when friction, heat, and pressure combine to irritate the facial skin. If you toss and turn during your sleep, the constant rubbing against the fabric damages the skin barrier. For individuals with sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea and eczema, this nightly friction worsens redness and can lead to painful, deep breakouts along the cheeks and jawline.</p><h2><strong>The Fabric Factor: Cotton Versus Silk</strong></h2><p>The material of your pillowcase plays a major role in your overall skin health. Traditional cotton, while highly common, is very absorbent. This means it draws moisture directly from your face, which not only leaves your skin dry but also absorbs the expensive moisturisers and serums applied before bed.</p><p>In contrast, health experts frequently recommend switching to silk pillowcases. Silk creates far less friction, preventing morning sleep creases, and absorbs significantly less moisture. This helps your skin retain its natural hydration and keeps your pores free from trapped, bacteria-filled sweat.</p><h2><strong>How Frequently Should You Wash It?</strong></h2><p>To maintain clear skin, strict laundry habits are non-negotiable. Health professionals recommend washing your pillowcases at least once every seven days. If you have oily skin, go to sleep with heavy hair products, or sweat heavily during the night, changing the pillowcase every three to four days is much more effective. Always use a gentle, fragrance-free detergent, as heavy chemicals and fabric softeners leave behind a residue that further irritates facial skin.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Achieving clear skin requires more than just high-end facial cleansers and serums. By washing your pillowcases weekly, avoiding harsh laundry detergents, and considering a switch to a silk fabric, you can eliminate a major source of hidden bacteria. Small, consistent changes in your sleep hygiene can lead to significantly healthier skin.</p>

Unwashed pillowcases accumulate dead skin cells, oils, and bacteria, leading to clogged pores and a condition known as acne mechanica. Dermatologists recommend switching from absorbent cotton to silk fabrics and washing bedding weekly to maintain clear skin and reduce facial friction.

Waking up with sudden breakouts despite maintaining a strict daily skincare routine can be deeply frustrating. While many people are quick to blame their diet or hormonal changes, the actual cause might be resting right under your head. Dermatologists suggest that unwashed pillowcases are a major, yet often overlooked, trigger for acne and skin irritation. Understanding how your everyday bedding interacts with your face is essential for achieving a healthier complexion. The Hidden Bacteria in Your Bedding Every night, the human body sheds millions of dead skin cells. Along with natural oils, night sweats, and remnants of hair products, these microscopic particles accumulate directly on your pillowcase. According to sleep hygiene research, a pillowcase left unwashed for a single week can harbour thousands of times more bacteria than a standard toilet seat. When you press your face against this unwashed surface for seven to eight hours a night, the accumulated bacteria transfer back onto your skin, clogging pores and triggering inflammation. Understanding Acne Mechanica Skin problems caused by bedding are often classified as acne mechanica. This specific condition occurs when friction, heat, and pressure combine to irritate the facial skin. If you toss and turn during your sleep, the constant rubbing against the fabric damages the skin barrier. For individuals with sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea and eczema, this nightly friction worsens redness and can lead to painful, deep breakouts along the cheeks and jawline. The Fabric Factor: Cotton Versus Silk The material of your pillowcase plays a major role in your overall skin health. Traditional cotton, while highly common, is very absorbent. This means it draws moisture directly from your face, which not only leaves your skin dry but also absorbs the expensive moisturisers and serums applied before bed. In contrast, health experts frequently recommend switching to silk pillowcases. Silk creates far less friction, preventing morning sleep creases, and absorbs significantly less moisture. This helps your skin retain its natural hydration and keeps your pores free from trapped, bacteria-filled sweat. How Frequently Should You Wash It? To maintain clear skin, strict laundry habits are non-negotiable. Health professionals recommend washing your pillowcases at least once every seven days. If you have oily skin, go to sleep with heavy hair products, or sweat heavily during the night, changing the pillowcase every three to four days is much more effective. Always use a gentle, fragrance-free detergent, as heavy chemicals and fabric softeners leave behind a residue that further irritates facial skin. Achieving clear skin requires more than just high-end facial cleansers and serums. By washing your pillowcases weekly, avoiding harsh laundry detergents, and considering a switch to a silk fabric, you can eliminate a major source of hidden bacteria. Small, consistent changes in your sleep hygiene can lead to significantly healthier skin.

<p>Unwashed pillowcases accumulate dead skin cells, oils, and bacteria, leading to clogged pores and a condition known as acne mechanica. Dermatologists recommend switching from absorbent cotton to silk fabrics and washing bedding weekly to maintain clear skin and reduce facial friction.</p>

Could your pillowcase be the reason behind your skin problems?

<p>As summer temperatures rise, many people quickly adjust their wardrobes and daily schedules. However, one of the most important changes you must make involves your personal care routine. The combination of intense heat, high humidity, and prolonged ultraviolet exposure places massive stress on your body's largest organ. Understanding exactly why the skin reacts differently during the hotter months is the first step toward preventing long-term damage and maintaining a healthy complexion.</p><h2><strong>Increased Sebum Production and Breakouts</strong></h2><p>During summer, the environmental heat directly affects your sebaceous glands. According to dermatological studies, for every one-degree Celsius rise in skin temperature, sebum production increases by up to 10 per cent. This excess oil mixes with sweat and dead skin cells, which quickly clogs pores. As a result, the face becomes a breeding ground for acne-causing bacteria. To counter this, health experts recommend switching from heavy, oil-based creams to lightweight, non-comedogenic gel moisturisers that hydrate without adding extra grease.</p><h2><strong>The Threat of Ultraviolet Radiation</strong></h2><p>The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays are significantly stronger and more dangerous during the summer season. Prolonged exposure to UVA and UVB rays actively damages the cellular DNA of the skin. A report by the World Health Organization indicates that up to 90 per cent of visible changes commonly attributed to ageing, such as deep wrinkles and pigmentation, are actually caused by sun exposure. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 every two hours is a mandatory technique to shield the skin from severe burns and reduce the risk of melanoma.</p><h2><strong>Dehydration and the Loss of Vital Moisture</strong></h2><p>While the summer air often feels heavy and humid, constant sweating causes the body to lose a vast amount of internal moisture. This rapid water loss leaves the skin barrier compromised, making it look dull and feel unusually tight. Furthermore, indoor air conditioning strips moisture from the air, further drying out the skin's surface. To maintain elasticity, it is vital to drink at least three litres of water a day and use serums containing hyaluronic acid, which binds water to the skin cells and prevents severe dehydration.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Summer weather presents unique physical challenges, from excessive oil production to dangerous UV radiation. By adopting a targeted routine that includes lightweight hydration, rigorous cleansing, and high-SPF sun protection, you can effectively defend your skin. Adjusting your daily habits ensures your complexion remains healthy throughout the season.</p>

Summer heat and high ultraviolet radiation place immense stress on the skin, causing increased oil production, dehydration, and sun damage. Adapting your daily routine with lightweight moisturisers, consistent SPF application, and deep hydration is essential to maintain skin health.

As summer temperatures rise, many people quickly adjust their wardrobes and daily schedules. However, one of the most important changes you must make involves your personal care routine. The combination of intense heat, high humidity, and prolonged ultraviolet exposure places massive stress on your body's largest organ. Understanding exactly why the skin reacts differently during the hotter months is the first step toward preventing long-term damage and maintaining a healthy complexion. Increased Sebum Production and Breakouts During summer, the environmental heat directly affects your sebaceous glands. According to dermatological studies, for every one-degree Celsius rise in skin temperature, sebum production increases by up to 10 per cent. This excess oil mixes with sweat and dead skin cells, which quickly clogs pores. As a result, the face becomes a breeding ground for acne-causing bacteria. To counter this, health experts recommend switching from heavy, oil-based creams to lightweight, non-comedogenic gel moisturisers that hydrate without adding extra grease. The Threat of Ultraviolet Radiation The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays are significantly stronger and more dangerous during the summer season. Prolonged exposure to UVA and UVB rays actively damages the cellular DNA of the skin. A report by the World Health Organization indicates that up to 90 per cent of visible changes commonly attributed to ageing, such as deep wrinkles and pigmentation, are actually caused by sun exposure. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 every two hours is a mandatory technique to shield the skin from severe burns and reduce the risk of melanoma. Dehydration and the Loss of Vital Moisture While the summer air often feels heavy and humid, constant sweating causes the body to lose a vast amount of internal moisture. This rapid water loss leaves the skin barrier compromised, making it look dull and feel unusually tight. Furthermore, indoor air conditioning strips moisture from the air, further drying out the skin's surface. To maintain elasticity, it is vital to drink at least three litres of water a day and use serums containing hyaluronic acid, which binds water to the skin cells and prevents severe dehydration. Summer weather presents unique physical challenges, from excessive oil production to dangerous UV radiation. By adopting a targeted routine that includes lightweight hydration, rigorous cleansing, and high-SPF sun protection, you can effectively defend your skin. Adjusting your daily habits ensures your complexion remains healthy throughout the season.

<p>Summer heat and high ultraviolet radiation place immense stress on the skin, causing increased oil production, dehydration, and sun damage. Adapting your daily routine with lightweight moisturisers, consistent SPF application, and deep hydration is essential to maintain skin health.</p>

Why Does Skin Need Extra Care During Summer?

<p>A hot shower is a common daily habit during colder months, but it can be detrimental to your skin health. Dermatologists warn that exposing your face and body to high water temperatures strips away moisture and natural oils. Understanding how hot water interacts with the skin's protective barrier is the first step toward preventing long-term dryness, irritation, and unexpected breakouts.</p><h2><strong>The Destruction of the Skin Barrier</strong></h2><p>The outermost layer of the skin, known as the epidermis, relies on a balance of natural oils and proteins to retain moisture. Washing with excessively hot water melts away this protective lipid layer, leaving the epidermis exposed. When this barrier is compromised, water escapes from the skin's surface into the surrounding atmosphere. This physiological process, clinically referred to as transepidermal water loss, is the primary reason the skin feels tight, itchy, and dry immediately after stepping out of a hot bath.</p><h2><strong>Triggering Inflammation and Premature Ageing</strong></h2><p>Beyond causing dryness, hot water acts similarly to a sunburn, causing the skin to become red, inflamed, and prone to peeling. For individuals managing conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea, this barrier disruption worsens redness, itching, and sensitivity. The chronic inflammation triggered by a damaged skin barrier does more than cause temporary discomfort. Over time, low-grade inflammation accelerates the breakdown of structural proteins like collagen and elastin, directly contributing to the signs of premature ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles.</p><h2><strong>The Unexpected Link to Acne Breakouts</strong></h2><p>It might seem logical that hot water cleanses pores, but stripping the skin of its moisture triggers an opposite reaction. When the epidermis becomes dry, the skin attempts to overcompensate for the moisture loss by producing more oil. This overproduction of sebum leads to further dermatological complications, including clogged pores and acne breakouts.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>To maintain a healthy complexion, experts suggest keeping showers short, ideally lasting no more than 10 minutes. Ensure the water temperature remains lukewarm rather than hot to protect the lipid layer. Finally, resist the urge to vigorously rub the skin dry; instead, use a gentle patting motion with a towel and immediately apply a moisturiser to seal in the hydration.</p>

While hot showers feel relaxing, dermatologists warn they strip away natural oils and proteins, leaving the skin vulnerable. High temperatures trigger transepidermal water loss, causing severe dryness, inflammation, premature ageing, and an overproduction of oil that leads to breakouts.


A hot shower is a common daily habit during colder months, but it can be detrimental to your skin health. Dermatologists warn that exposing your face and body to high water temperatures strips away moisture and natural oils. Understanding how hot water interacts with the skin's protective barrier is the first step toward preventing long-term dryness, irritation, and unexpected breakouts. The Destruction of the Skin Barrier The outermost layer of the skin, known as the epidermis, relies on a balance of natural oils and proteins to retain moisture. Washing with excessively hot water melts away this protective lipid layer, leaving the epidermis exposed. When this barrier is compromised, water escapes from the skin's surface into the surrounding atmosphere. This physiological process, clinically referred to as transepidermal water loss, is the primary reason the skin feels tight, itchy, and dry immediately after stepping out of a hot bath. Triggering Inflammation and Premature Ageing Beyond causing dryness, hot water acts similarly to a sunburn, causing the skin to become red, inflamed, and prone to peeling. For individuals managing conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea, this barrier disruption worsens redness, itching, and sensitivity. The chronic inflammation triggered by a damaged skin barrier does more than cause temporary discomfort. Over time, low-grade inflammation accelerates the breakdown of structural proteins like collagen and elastin, directly contributing to the signs of premature ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles. The Unexpected Link to Acne Breakouts It might seem logical that hot water cleanses pores, but stripping the skin of its moisture triggers an opposite reaction. When the epidermis becomes dry, the skin attempts to overcompensate for the moisture loss by producing more oil. This overproduction of sebum leads to further dermatological complications, including clogged pores and acne breakouts. To maintain a healthy complexion, experts suggest keeping showers short, ideally lasting no more than 10 minutes. Ensure the water temperature remains lukewarm rather than hot to protect the lipid layer. Finally, resist the urge to vigorously rub the skin dry; instead, use a gentle patting motion with a towel and immediately apply a moisturiser to seal in the hydration.

<p>While hot showers feel relaxing, dermatologists warn they strip away natural oils and proteins, leaving the skin vulnerable. High temperatures trigger transepidermal water loss, causing severe dryness, inflammation, premature ageing, and an overproduction of oil that leads to breakouts.</p>

Is hot water secretly damaging your skin?

<p>Our parents grew up in a world without smartphones, tablets, or social media. However, we can hardly imagine our lives without them. In today’s world, digital devices have become a part of everyday life. From educational apps to games and entertainment, many children are increasingly using these devices. While technology can help support learning, creativity, and communication, health experts warn that prolonged exposure to screens can have harmful effects for children.</p><p>The challenge has become even more distinct as dual-income households become increasingly common, where both parents are engaged in full-time professions. Many parents turn to phones and televisions to keep their young children occupied as they juggle multiple responsibilities. While the screens provide a breather for the parents, health professionals caution that excessive reliance on them may have unintended consequences for a child’s development.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/the-science-behind-why-you-keep-scrolling-and-how-it-rewires-your-brain-1781455009989"><strong>The science behind why you keep scrolling – and how it rewires your brain</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What health experts say</strong></h2><p>Speaking to WION, pediatricians highlighted the potential risks associated with excessive screen exposure during childhood.</p><p>Dr Sujatha Thyagarajan, Lead &amp; HOD - Pediatric Intensive Care and Pediatric Emergency, Aster Whitefield Hospital, said that during growing years, too much exposure to screens can hinder attention span, language learning, and sleep quality. It can also have an impact on social development and how kids manage their emotions.</p><p>“Children learn better when they do real-world stuff, get in physical play, and have face-to-face conversations,” Dr Thyagarajan said.</p><p>Dr Rakshay Shetty, Clinical Director, Pediatric Services Head, Pediatric Intensive Care Services, Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Marathahalli, highlighted that excess screen exposure can also lower physical activity and reduce in-person contact, which is essential for emotional and cognitive growth of children.</p><p>“Little kids usually learn best by doing things in the real world, through play, and through direct human engagement, not just videos,” he said.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/the-impossible-balance-how-working-mothers-navigate-parenting-careers-and-family-life-1782210405382"><strong>The impossible balance: How working mothers navigate parenting, careers and family life</strong></a></p><h2><strong>How much screen time is recommended for children?</strong></h2><p>Health experts recommend that screen time for children below 2 years should only be limited to video calls. For kids aged 2-5 years, screen use should stay around an hour a day, under adult supervision.</p><p>Dr Nitin M, Consultant - Pediatrician and Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Electronic City, Bengaluru, explained, “Too much screen time stimulates the brain excessively and may harm a child’s development regarding attention span, language learning, and emotional control. In children younger than eighteen months, screen time should not exceed video chatting. However, between ages two and five years, good television programs should not exceed one hour daily.”</p><p>“For older children, the ‘right’ boundaries should make sure screens don’t interfere with sleep, exercise, homework, or family back and forth. Parental direction, plus balanced use, is the key part here, overall,” said Dr Rakshay Shetty, Clinical Director, Pediatric Services Head, Pediatric Intensive Care Services, Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Marathahalli.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/wion-decodes-why-does-coffee-calm-some-people-instead-of-waking-them-up-here-s-what-science-says-1780995139137"><strong>WION Decodes | Why does coffee calm some people instead of waking them up? Here’s what science says</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Are educational apps really beneficial?</strong></h2><p>When asked whether applications that claim to be educational are helpful for young children, health experts stated that while they can support learning when used in moderation. However, they cautioned that not every app provides a learning experience.</p><p>“Educational apps can be beneficial, if they are well designed, and kind of age-appropriate, and also used in moderation. They can support learning by boosting skills like reading, mathematics, problem-solving, and even creativity with interactive activities,” Dr Shetty said.</p><p>He added, “But not every educational app really gives a solid learning experience. Some lean a lot on entertainment features, rewards, and repetitive tasks, which can make kids feel like they are being productive, yet still not really build deep understanding or critical thinking.”</p><p>Dr Thyagarajan highlighted that children learn best when getting hands-on exploration, playful imagination, story time, storytelling, plus actual conversation and social interaction.</p><p>“So, technology should be more like a complement to learning, not a stand-in for real human engagement, or for the everyday experiences outside the screen,” she said.</p>

As digital devices become an integral part of childhood, parents are increasingly grappling with questions about screen time, technology use and healthy habits. Here's what experts say.

Our parents grew up in a world without smartphones, tablets, or social media. However, we can hardly imagine our lives without them. In today’s world, digital devices have become a part of everyday life. From educational apps to games and entertainment, many children are increasingly using these devices. While technology can help support learning, creativity, and communication, health experts warn that prolonged exposure to screens can have harmful effects for children. The challenge has become even more distinct as dual-income households become increasingly common, where both parents are engaged in full-time professions. Many parents turn to phones and televisions to keep their young children occupied as they juggle multiple responsibilities. While the screens provide a breather for the parents, health professionals caution that excessive reliance on them may have unintended consequences for a child’s development. Also read | The science behind why you keep scrolling – and how it rewires your brain What health experts say Speaking to WION, pediatricians highlighted the potential risks associated with excessive screen exposure during childhood. Dr Sujatha Thyagarajan, Lead & HOD - Pediatric Intensive Care and Pediatric Emergency, Aster Whitefield Hospital, said that during growing years, too much exposure to screens can hinder attention span, language learning, and sleep quality. It can also have an impact on social development and how kids manage their emotions. “Children learn better when they do real-world stuff, get in physical play, and have face-to-face conversations,” Dr Thyagarajan said. Dr Rakshay Shetty, Clinical Director, Pediatric Services Head, Pediatric Intensive Care Services, Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Marathahalli, highlighted that excess screen exposure can also lower physical activity and reduce in-person contact, which is essential for emotional and cognitive growth of children. “Little kids usually learn best by doing things in the real world, through play, and through direct human engagement, not just videos,” he said. Also read | The impossible balance: How working mothers navigate parenting, careers and family life How much screen time is recommended for children? Health experts recommend that screen time for children below 2 years should only be limited to video calls. For kids aged 2-5 years, screen use should stay around an hour a day, under adult supervision. Dr Nitin M, Consultant - Pediatrician and Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Electronic City, Bengaluru, explained, “Too much screen time stimulates the brain excessively and may harm a child’s development regarding attention span, language learning, and emotional control. In children younger than eighteen months, screen time should not exceed video chatting. However, between ages two and five years, good television programs should not exceed one hour daily.” “For older children, the ‘right’ boundaries should make sure screens don’t interfere with sleep, exercise, homework, or family back and forth. Parental direction, plus balanced use, is the key part here, overall,” said Dr Rakshay Shetty, Clinical Director, Pediatric Services Head, Pediatric Intensive Care Services, Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Marathahalli. Also read | WION Decodes | Why does coffee calm some people instead of waking them up? Here’s what science says Are educational apps really beneficial? When asked whether applications that claim to be educational are helpful for young children, health experts stated that while they can support learning when used in moderation. However, they cautioned that not every app provides a learning experience. “Educational apps can be beneficial, if they are well designed, and kind of age-appropriate, and also used in moderation. They can support learning by boosting skills like reading, mathematics, problem-solving, and even creativity with interactive activities,” Dr Shetty said. He added, “But not every educational app really gives a solid learning experience. Some lean a lot on entertainment features, rewards, and repetitive tasks, which can make kids feel like they are being productive, yet still not really build deep understanding or critical thinking.” Dr Thyagarajan highlighted that children learn best when getting hands-on exploration, playful imagination, story time, storytelling, plus actual conversation and social interaction. “So, technology should be more like a complement to learning, not a stand-in for real human engagement, or for the everyday experiences outside the screen,” she said.

<p>As digital devices become an integral part of childhood, parents are increasingly grappling with questions about screen time, technology use and healthy habits. Here's what experts say.</p>

How much screen time is too much for children? Experts reveal how digital devices affect young minds

<p>Each year, urologists in India see a definite spike in patients presenting with kidney stones during the summer months. Appointments for consultation and surgical interventions are booked several weeks in advance. Those suffering from urological issues for the first time come seeking help with complaints of acute pain, shocked to learn that there was even a connection with the weather. There is a documented connection between summer heat and the development of kidney stones. Despite this, there is an awareness gap on this topic, which results in entirely avoidable consequences.</p><h3>The heat-dehydration-stone connection</h3><p>One of the main reasons kidney stones develop is when urine is supersaturated with certain minerals, usually calcium oxalate, uric acid, or calcium phosphate, which then crystallise and aggregate over a period. The main reason behind this supersaturation is a decrease in urine volume. During summer, our bodies lose a large amount of fluid through sweating, and if we do not increase our water intake Because of this, then urine output will decrease and become more concentrated.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In reality, several studies have proven that having daily urine production lower than one litre is very likely to cause stones. In summertime, for example, where adults tend to work in open fields without any air conditioners, taking such amounts of water becomes difficult.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>But by taking proper steps, kidney stone formation, especially during the summer, can be avoided by filling the awareness gap among people.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Sharing his advice on this, Dr Sudhir Kumar Sharma, Senior Consultant of District Hospital, Kanpur, has said, ''To reduce the risk of stone formation in the kidney during the summer season, it is advised to keep maximum water intake and mix lemon extracts in water. One should at least take 3 litres of water daily. Also, one should avoid artificial drinks, tea, a high-protein diet and chocolates as these substances increase the risk. One should only go outside if it is necessary and take proper steps to avoid excessive sweating, keeping the water level in the body intact.''</p><h3>Why do some people face more risks than others?</h3><p>Individuals do not share equal risk for kidney stones. For instance, individuals with a history of forming kidney stones either personally or through their family members are likely to develop stones as they retain their metabolic risk factors even when they are not actively forming the stones. Gout, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and any other chronic gastrointestinal disorders, including Crohn’s disease, are also known to put individuals at risk since they affect their urine acidity and absorption of oxalates. Diets rich in proteins and salt will cause increased amounts of calcium and uric acid in urine, thereby causing more risk of stones.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Representative image of Kidney

<p>Vitamin C supplements taken during summer to boost one’s immunity can actually cause increased amounts of oxalates in urine.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Chairman of Steris Healthcare Mr Jeevan Kasara says, “The summer season imposes a great deal of strain on the body, especially when it comes to the functioning of the kidneys. With the increase in temperature comes an increase in the amount of fluid loss via sweating; and in case hydration levels are not effectively maintained, the chances of forming kidney stones are very high. The worrying factor here is that people only become aware of the dangers of dehydration after developing complications. Just by taking some preventative measures like consuming enough fluids and avoiding excess salty foods, one can avoid kidney problems.”</p>

<h3>Dietary factors complicating the problem</h3><p>During summer, diet choices often tend to be detrimental to kidney health. More cold beverages and juices, as well as other sports drinks, are consumed. However, all these options may include ingredients such as fructose, phosphoric acid, or various artificial preservatives. Moreover, they do not serve as an adequate replacement for plain drinking water but rather contribute to stone development. Foods with a higher oxalate content, for example, spinach, nuts, chocolates, and tea, are prone to cause stones because of their intake in large quantities combined with low water intake. High salt diet should also be considered, since it stimulates calcium excretion.</p><h3>Ways to protect ourselves during the summer season</h3><p>The easiest way to prevent kidney stones in summer would be to remain hydrated. It would be necessary for a person to consume an adequate amount of water daily in order to maintain clear colored urine, with a minimum consumption of 3 litres per day in the summer. Consumption of lemon water may help because citric acid present in lemons can decrease the risk of developing stones. People who have suffered from kidney stones must avoid salty food and seek medical advice in the summer.</p>

Kidney stone cases rise significantly across India during the summer months, with urologists reporting a surge in consultations and surgeries. Experts have explained why there is an increase in the cases of Kidney stones in the summer sharply. 

Each year, urologists in India see a definite spike in patients presenting with kidney stones during the summer months. Appointments for consultation and surgical interventions are booked several weeks in advance. Those suffering from urological issues for the first time come seeking help with complaints of acute pain, shocked to learn that there was even a connection with the weather. There is a documented connection between summer heat and the development of kidney stones. Despite this, there is an awareness gap on this topic, which results in entirely avoidable consequences. The heat-dehydration-stone connection One of the main reasons kidney stones develop is when urine is supersaturated with certain minerals, usually calcium oxalate, uric acid, or calcium phosphate, which then crystallise and aggregate over a period. The main reason behind this supersaturation is a decrease in urine volume. During summer, our bodies lose a large amount of fluid through sweating, and if we do not increase our water intake Because of this, then urine output will decrease and become more concentrated. In reality, several studies have proven that having daily urine production lower than one litre is very likely to cause stones. In summertime, for example, where adults tend to work in open fields without any air conditioners, taking such amounts of water becomes difficult. But by taking proper steps, kidney stone formation, especially during the summer, can be avoided by filling the awareness gap among people. Sharing his advice on this, Dr Sudhir Kumar Sharma, Senior Consultant of District Hospital, Kanpur, has said, ''To reduce the risk of stone formation in the kidney during the summer season, it is advised to keep maximum water intake and mix lemon extracts in water. One should at least take 3 litres of water daily. Also, one should avoid artificial drinks, tea, a high-protein diet and chocolates as these substances increase the risk. One should only go outside if it is necessary and take proper steps to avoid excessive sweating, keeping the water level in the body intact.'' Why do some people face more risks than others? Individuals do not share equal risk for kidney stones. For instance, individuals with a history of forming kidney stones either personally or through their family members are likely to develop stones as they retain their metabolic risk factors even when they are not actively forming the stones. Gout, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and any other chronic gastrointestinal disorders, including Crohn’s disease, are also known to put individuals at risk since they affect their urine acidity and absorption of oxalates. Diets rich in proteins and salt will cause increased amounts of calcium and uric acid in urine, thereby causing more risk of stones.

<p>Kidney stone cases rise significantly across India during the summer months, with urologists reporting a surge in consultations and surgeries. Experts have explained why there is an increase in the cases of Kidney stones in the summer sharply.&nbsp;</p>

Why Kidney stone cases rise sharply in summer - and how to protect yourself | Expert explains

<p>AI is increasingly improving mental healthcare access by scaling, personalising, and automating support, while simultaneously preserving human connections by triaging severe cases, including monitoring, and bridging between clinical visits. It acts as a signal amplifier and a helpful ally rather than a clinical replacement. AI has also emerged as a transformative force in medical fields, enhancing accessibility, efficacy, and ethicality, thereby helping both individuals and communities. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), mental health disorders are emerging as a substantial contributor to the global disease burden, with depression being the leading cause of disability worldwide.</p><p><br>Increasing mental health disorders have put an unprecedented demand on healthcare systems, disclosing the inadequacies of old methods of mental health care. Traditional mental healthcare models, which largely depend on face-to-face consultations and therapy sessions, are struggling to meet the growing need for accessible, affordable and scalable services. The widening gap between the rising demand for mental health support and the limited availability of care underscores the urgent need for innovative and effective solutions.</p><p><br>To provide an effective and immediate solution, AI is emerging as a powerful tool in mental healthcare, helping analyse large datasets, identify behavioural patterns and support early detection of mental health conditions. It can enable personalised treatment plans, virtual therapy platforms and improved access to care, particularly for underserved populations. AI also has the potential to reduce stigma and enhance treatment outcomes. However, its growing role raises important ethical, regulatory and privacy concerns that require careful oversight. Experts believe the future of mental healthcare lies in combining AI's analytical capabilities with human expertise to deliver more effective and accessible mental health support.</p><p><br>Meanwhile, experts indicate that the technology can help bridge India's massive mental health treatment gap, but it is far from replacing human therapists. Dr Amit Malik, Founder and CEO of Amaha, said India's shortage of mental health professionals makes AI a potentially valuable tool for improving access to support. With fewer than 10,000 psychiatrists and psychologists serving a population of over a billion people, access to care remains severely limited, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas.</p><p><br>"The mental health treatment gap in India is stark. Fewer than 10,000 psychiatrists and psychologists serve a population of more than a billion, heavily concentrated in large cities. In smaller towns and rural areas, an entire district may have only one or two specialists, sometimes none at all. Geography, affordability, and stigma make it even harder. This is the context in which AI becomes relevant, but only in well-defined ways," Amit Malik said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/why-healthy-gut-is-foundation-of-long-term-health-experts-explain-1781794588616">Why healthy gut is foundation of long-term health? Experts explain</a></p><p><br>Malik noted that AI can play a vital role in addressing mild to moderate mental health concerns by helping users identify the right support options and remain involved with their care. It can also act as a digital companion between therapy sessions, inspiring reflection and reinforcing therapeutic exercises. However, he stressed that the core elements of therapy remain deeply human and cannot be replicated by technology.</p><p><br>"There is also a dimension of therapy that goes well beyond words. Approaches like psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, and somatic work rely on body cues, non-verbal processing, and a quality of relational presence that is difficult to even describe, let alone automate. A therapist reads micro-expressions, tracks physiological shifts, and notices what is conspicuously absent from a narrative. That quality of attunement is not a feature that can be engineered," he said.</p><p><br>"With conditions like bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, or treatment-resistant depression, recovery rarely follows a linear pathway. It requires psychiatrists, therapists, nurses, and caregivers working in close coordination, across multiple modalities and over a sustained period. AI cannot hold someone through a manic episode, or help them rebuild functioning after a hospitalisation. That work requires a multidisciplinary team and a depth of clinical judgment that technology, at this stage, simply cannot replicate," Malik added.</p><p><br>While AI may help more people access mental health resources, Malik emphasised that lasting therapeutic change still depends on the human relationship between therapist and client. "At Amaha, we see AI as infrastructure, not intervention. Used well, it can widen access, reduce the friction that stops people from seeking help, and, by absorbing documentation and administrative load, give clinicians back the cognitive space to be fully present with their clients. That presence, the safety it creates, the ruptures it survives, the repair it enables, is what makes lasting change possible. AI can open the door. It cannot do what happens inside the room," he further added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>WATCH</strong>: https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-the-zero-to-100-trend-is-winning-the-health-game-1782217612434/embed</p><h3>Human connection remains essential</h3><p>Seema Rekha, Founder and Managing Director of Antarmanh Consulting, noted that AI has the potential to help bridge critical gaps in mental healthcare by increasing access to support and early intervention services, but it cannot remove the human relationships at the heart of healing.</p><p><br>"In short, AI technology can help address these gaps, especially in a world where there are more needs than trained professionals to help. The provision of information, self-help possibilities, emotional screening, and early detection of any distress is possible through the use of AI technology. However, for those individuals who may be hesitant to use mainstream services due to stigma, distance, and ignorance, AI can help as a first step towards seeking assistance. However, at its very core, the field of mental health care is inherently based on human interaction. Humans heal from their pain through empathy, trust, compassion, and understanding. While this is something that machines cannot do completely, they can offer much-needed assistance in doing so. AI technology can spot patterns and provide prompts, but cannot offer the human element of a therapist, a coach or even a leader," Seema Rekha said.</p><p><br>Looking ahead, she argued that the future of mental healthcare should not be framed as a competition between technology and people. Instead, success will depend on how effectively both are integrated to improve patient outcomes.</p><p><br>"The future of mental healthcare should neither be technology versus people, nor should it be about balancing the two. Instead, it needs to be about how well the two are brought together in the right ways. In essence, technology should be seen as something that increases the scope of treatment and also allows for more efficient and effective treatment of the patient. However, there is no need to lose sight of the fact that the human part of mental health remains integral at all times. Technology can help open the door, but change happens through human relationships," she added.<br>&nbsp;</p>

AI can play a vital role in addressing mild to moderate mental health concerns by helping users identify the right support options and remain involved with their care. It can also act as a digital companion between therapy sessions, inspiring reflection and reinforcing therapeutic exercises.

AI is increasingly improving mental healthcare access by scaling, personalising, and automating support, while simultaneously preserving human connections by triaging severe cases, including monitoring, and bridging between clinical visits. It acts as a signal amplifier and a helpful ally rather than a clinical replacement. AI has also emerged as a transformative force in medical fields, enhancing accessibility, efficacy, and ethicality, thereby helping both individuals and communities. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), mental health disorders are emerging as a substantial contributor to the global disease burden, with depression being the leading cause of disability worldwide. Increasing mental health disorders have put an unprecedented demand on healthcare systems, disclosing the inadequacies of old methods of mental health care. Traditional mental healthcare models, which largely depend on face-to-face consultations and therapy sessions, are struggling to meet the growing need for accessible, affordable and scalable services. The widening gap between the rising demand for mental health support and the limited availability of care underscores the urgent need for innovative and effective solutions. To provide an effective and immediate solution, AI is emerging as a powerful tool in mental healthcare, helping analyse large datasets, identify behavioural patterns and support early detection of mental health conditions. It can enable personalised treatment plans, virtual therapy platforms and improved access to care, particularly for underserved populations. AI also has the potential to reduce stigma and enhance treatment outcomes. However, its growing role raises important ethical, regulatory and privacy concerns that require careful oversight. Experts believe the future of mental healthcare lies in combining AI's analytical capabilities with human expertise to deliver more effective and accessible mental health support. Meanwhile, experts indicate that the technology can help bridge India's massive mental health treatment gap, but it is far from replacing human therapists. Dr Amit Malik, Founder and CEO of Amaha, said India's shortage of mental health professionals makes AI a potentially valuable tool for improving access to support. With fewer than 10,000 psychiatrists and psychologists serving a population of over a billion people, access to care remains severely limited, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas. "The mental health treatment gap in India is stark. Fewer than 10,000 psychiatrists and psychologists serve a population of more than a billion, heavily concentrated in large cities. In smaller towns and rural areas, an entire district may have only one or two specialists, sometimes none at all. Geography, affordability, and stigma make it even harder. This is the context in which AI becomes relevant, but only in well-defined ways," Amit Malik said. Also read: Why healthy gut is foundation of long-term health? Experts explain Malik noted that AI can play a vital role in addressing mild to moderate mental health concerns by helping users identify the right support options and remain involved with their care. It can also act as a digital companion between therapy sessions, inspiring reflection and reinforcing therapeutic exercises. However, he stressed that the core elements of therapy remain deeply human and cannot be replicated by technology. "There is also a dimension of therapy that goes well beyond words. Approaches like psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, and somatic work rely on body cues, non-verbal processing, and a quality of relational presence that is difficult to even describe, let alone automate. A therapist reads micro-expressions, tracks physiological shifts, and notices what is conspicuously absent from a narrative. That quality of attunement is not a feature that can be engineered," he said. "With conditions like bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, or treatment-resistant depression, recovery rarely follows a linear pathway. It requires psychiatrists, therapists, nurses, and caregivers working in close coordination, across multiple modalities and over a sustained period. AI cannot hold someone through a manic episode, or help them rebuild functioning after a hospitalisation. That work requires a multidisciplinary team and a depth of clinical judgment that technology, at this stage, simply cannot replicate," Malik added. While AI may help more people access mental health resources, Malik emphasised that lasting therapeutic change still depends on the human relationship between therapist and client. "At Amaha, we see AI as infrastructure, not intervention. Used well, it can widen access, reduce the friction that stops people from seeking help, and, by absorbing documentation and administrative load, give clinicians back the cognitive space to be fully present with their clients. That presence, the safety it creates, the ruptures it survives, the repair it enables, is what makes lasting change possible. AI can open the door. It cannot do what happens inside the room," he further added. WATCH: https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-the-zero-to-100-trend-is-winning-the-health-game-1782217612434/embed Human connection remains essential Seema Rekha, Founder and Managing Director of Antarmanh Consulting, noted that AI has the potential to help bridge critical gaps in mental healthcare by increasing access to support and early intervention services, but it cannot remove the human relationships at the heart of healing. "In short, AI technology can help address these gaps, especially in a world where there are more needs than trained professionals to help. The provision of information, self-help possibilities, emotional screening, and early detection of any distress is possible through the use of AI technology. However, for those individuals who may be hesitant to use mainstream services due to stigma, distance, and ignorance, AI can help as a first step towards seeking assistance. However, at its very core, the field of mental health care is inherently based on human interaction. Humans heal from their pain through empathy, trust, compassion, and understanding. While this is something that machines cannot do completely, they can offer much-needed assistance in doing so. AI technology can spot patterns and provide prompts, but cannot offer the human element of a therapist, a coach or even a leader," Seema Rekha said. Looking ahead, she argued that the future of mental healthcare should not be framed as a competition between technology and people. Instead, success will depend on how effectively both are integrated to improve patient outcomes. "The future of mental healthcare should neither be technology versus people, nor should it be about balancing the two. Instead, it needs to be about how well the two are brought together in the right ways. In essence, technology should be seen as something that increases the scope of treatment and also allows for more efficient and effective treatment of the patient. However, there is no need to lose sight of the fact that the human part of mental health remains integral at all times. Technology can help open the door, but change happens through human relationships," she added.

<p>AI can play a vital role in addressing mild to moderate mental health concerns by helping users identify the right support options and remain involved with their care. It can also act as a digital companion between therapy sessions, inspiring reflection and reinforcing therapeutic exercises.</p>

Can AI improve access to mental healthcare without replacing human connection? Here's what experts say

<p>Mothers have long been the backbone of families for generations. Being the first one to wake up and last one to rest, they have been managing countless responsibilities – packing lunch boxes, making sure the children catch the school bus, preparing meals, caring for loved ones and fulfilling their children’s wishes. However, one thing has changed in today’s modern world. As dual-income households become increasingly common, more women are pursuing full-time careers. Apart from school schedules, household chores and caregiving duties, mothers also face the responsibility of office deadlines, meetings, performance targets and career ambitions, managing two demanding worlds at the same time.</p><p>In an increasingly fast-paced and digital society, new pressures have been brought in for many working mothers as they balance parenting and work. While greater opportunities have opened doors for women in the workplace, they have also highlighted the often-overlooked realities of modern parenting, where the demands of work and family frequently collide.</p><h2><strong>Challenge of balancing two worlds</strong></h2><p>Anamica Singh, a working mother, spoke about her challenges of balancing work and parenting. She described how sometimes work keeps her absent from her children’s routines. “There are things at home with kids that you need to deal with, but at the same time, you know that you have to be at work at a certain hour.”</p><p>“Like for me, I am already out of the home when they are going to school. Then there is the mental load of keeping track of every tiny thing. For example, if one of them needs to be given a particular medicine and I am at work, I have to remember to call home to remind someone to do that. It is like an alarm goes off in your brain at particular hours,” she described.</p><p>Another working mother, Arushi Mathur, said that the most challenging part about balancing work commitments and parents comes when both demand immediate attention at the same time, which happens quite often. “There are times when I have an urgent deadline to meet, or an urgent email, and an unexpected illness or a tantrum also comes along,” she said. “I also sometimes feel that a professional support system is limited, which makes it harder to meet responsibilities and expectations. I find myself constantly prioritising daily tasks.”</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/the-science-behind-why-you-keep-scrolling-and-how-it-rewires-your-brain-1781455009989"><strong>The science behind why you keep scrolling – and how it rewires your brain</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Screen time: A practical solution or a parenting dilemma?</strong></h2><p>To help manage their child’s time, parents sometimes resort to digital devices, which are often associated with bad influences due to the harmful effects of screen time. Sharing her experience, Singh said that parents, especially mothers, are often made to feel bad for giving their kids phones or letting them watch TV.</p><p>“I absolutely do not want my kids to be addicted to screens just because I don’t have time for them. But when you have had a gruelling day and are tired to the bone, if a phone can get them to finish their dinner and go to bed, I am up for it,” said Singh, who is a mother of two kids, aged six and 11.</p><p>Mathur said that while she wants her two-year-old child to engage in more outdoor and hands-on activities, “a limited screentime can be a helpful tool for creating a little breathing room during busy days”.</p><p>Health experts recommend that screen time for children below 2 years should only be limited to video calls. For kids aged 2-5 years, screen use should stay around an hour a day, under adult supervision.</p><p>“For older children, the ‘right’ boundaries should make sure screens don’t interfere with sleep, exercise, homework, or family back and forth. Parental direction, plus balanced use, is the key part here, overall,” said Dr Rakshay Shetty, Clinical Director, Pediatric Services Head, Pediatric Intensive Care Services, Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Marathahalli.</p><p><strong>Watch | Gen Z Beating Millennials? New Study Reveals Surprising Income Gap</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gen-z-beating-millennials-new-study-reveals-surprising-income-gap-1782188838606/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/gen-z-beating-millennials-new-study-reveals-surprising-income-gap-1782188838606/embed</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Why quality time matters</strong></h2><p>Speaking to medical professionals on the subject, WION learned that it is “extremely important” for children to have quality time with parents. They also highlighted that the quantity of time spent with children is also essential for their development.</p><p>“Child development gets built from repeated, predictable interactions throughout the day, not only during those carefully staged or specially planned moments. Kids often gain emotional security from feeling that a caregiver is there in a steady way and that they will respond,” Dr. Sujatha Thyagarajan said.</p><p>Dr Thyagarajan, Lead &amp; HOD - Pediatric Intensive Care and Pediatric Emergency at Aster Whitefield Hospital, further explained, “That said, it doesn’t really mean working mothers have to be physically present every single moment, or even every hour, which is a more realistic view. The big point is the quality of attachment, the degree of responsiveness, and the emotional availability during the time together. Like, a parent who stays attentive, truly engaged, and emotionally linked for a few focused hours can often offer more developmental value than many hours where everyone is technically there but distracted.”</p><h2><strong>Small daily habits that make a difference</strong></h2><p>Dr Nitin M, Consultant - Pediatrician and Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Electronic City, Bengaluru, recommended what daily habits working mothers can adopt for the development of their child.</p><p>“A regular schedule for waking up in the morning and preparing for bed will bring about great stability. Spending just fifteen minutes each day connecting with your child without any distraction from the gadgets, by either reading with him or telling stories from the day’s activities, provides a tremendous sense of security,” Dr Nitin said.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/wion-decodes-why-does-coffee-calm-some-people-instead-of-waking-them-up-here-s-what-science-says-1780995139137"><strong>WION Decodes | Why does coffee calm some people instead of waking them up? Here’s what science says</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Building emotional resilience in children</strong></h2><p>According to pediatricians, children thrive when they feel heard, understood and accepted. Open conversations about their feelings, experiences, friendships and worries help build emotional awareness and resilience. Parents play a crucial role by actively listening, validating emotions and creating a safe, judgment-free environment where children feel comfortable expressing themselves. Simple everyday interactions during meals, playtime or bedtime can strengthen trust and emotional connection.</p><p>“When children feel safe enough to share their thoughts, and they know the adults around them will stand by them, they are more likely to develop solid emotional well-being and healthier coping skills,” Dr Shetty said.</p><p>The experts also cautioned parents against overindulging children with a bunch of material gifts to make up for their absence while working. Dr Thyagarajan explained that while it can be well-intentioned, “these actions don’t really touch a child’s real need for connection. And weirdly enough, they can also nudge along behavioural or emotional issues later.”</p><h2><strong>Parenting in the age of working motherhood</strong></h2><p>It is obvious that parenting has changed in our modern society, with working mothers today often facing the unique burden of balancing careers with the continuing responsibility of managing a home and raising children.</p><p>“With today’s fast-paced lifestyle, it has become challenging for parents to constantly balance work, parenting and personal responsibilities,” Mathur said. “Parents of this generation required a different kind of adaptability and planning that it did in previous generations.”</p><p>She added that parents today have less support due to the rise of nuclear families. She also stated that changing parenting advice can sometimes conflict with traditional practices.</p><p>Singh said, “It has become harder for women because they can never completely shun the responsibility of home and kids, even when not available at all times. I do not want my kids to feel like I am not there for them when I am at work. So no matter how tired I am, I listen to them when they talk, when they want to show something, play with me, etc. As I said, mom guilt never ends. So it is double the work and double the stress, yet we do not want to give up any of it.”</p>

As more women pursue careers, working mothers are balancing jobs, childcare and household responsibilities, facing new pressures as they navigate the competing demands of work and family life. Here’s how they navigate challenges.

Mothers have long been the backbone of families for generations. Being the first one to wake up and last one to rest, they have been managing countless responsibilities – packing lunch boxes, making sure the children catch the school bus, preparing meals, caring for loved ones and fulfilling their children’s wishes. However, one thing has changed in today’s modern world. As dual-income households become increasingly common, more women are pursuing full-time careers. Apart from school schedules, household chores and caregiving duties, mothers also face the responsibility of office deadlines, meetings, performance targets and career ambitions, managing two demanding worlds at the same time. In an increasingly fast-paced and digital society, new pressures have been brought in for many working mothers as they balance parenting and work. While greater opportunities have opened doors for women in the workplace, they have also highlighted the often-overlooked realities of modern parenting, where the demands of work and family frequently collide. Challenge of balancing two worlds Anamica Singh, a working mother, spoke about her challenges of balancing work and parenting. She described how sometimes work keeps her absent from her children’s routines. “There are things at home with kids that you need to deal with, but at the same time, you know that you have to be at work at a certain hour.” “Like for me, I am already out of the home when they are going to school. Then there is the mental load of keeping track of every tiny thing. For example, if one of them needs to be given a particular medicine and I am at work, I have to remember to call home to remind someone to do that. It is like an alarm goes off in your brain at particular hours,” she described. Another working mother, Arushi Mathur, said that the most challenging part about balancing work commitments and parents comes when both demand immediate attention at the same time, which happens quite often. “There are times when I have an urgent deadline to meet, or an urgent email, and an unexpected illness or a tantrum also comes along,” she said. “I also sometimes feel that a professional support system is limited, which makes it harder to meet responsibilities and expectations. I find myself constantly prioritising daily tasks.” Also read | The science behind why you keep scrolling – and how it rewires your brain Screen time: A practical solution or a parenting dilemma? To help manage their child’s time, parents sometimes resort to digital devices, which are often associated with bad influences due to the harmful effects of screen time. Sharing her experience, Singh said that parents, especially mothers, are often made to feel bad for giving their kids phones or letting them watch TV. “I absolutely do not want my kids to be addicted to screens just because I don’t have time for them. But when you have had a gruelling day and are tired to the bone, if a phone can get them to finish their dinner and go to bed, I am up for it,” said Singh, who is a mother of two kids, aged six and 11. Mathur said that while she wants her two-year-old child to engage in more outdoor and hands-on activities, “a limited screentime can be a helpful tool for creating a little breathing room during busy days”. Health experts recommend that screen time for children below 2 years should only be limited to video calls. For kids aged 2-5 years, screen use should stay around an hour a day, under adult supervision. “For older children, the ‘right’ boundaries should make sure screens don’t interfere with sleep, exercise, homework, or family back and forth. Parental direction, plus balanced use, is the key part here, overall,” said Dr Rakshay Shetty, Clinical Director, Pediatric Services Head, Pediatric Intensive Care Services, Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Marathahalli. Watch | Gen Z Beating Millennials? New Study Reveals Surprising Income Gap https://www.wionews.com/videos/gen-z-beating-millennials-new-study-reveals-surprising-income-gap-1782188838606/embed Why quality time matters Speaking to medical professionals on the subject, WION learned that it is “extremely important” for children to have quality time with parents. They also highlighted that the quantity of time spent with children is also essential for their development. “Child development gets built from repeated, predictable interactions throughout the day, not only during those carefully staged or specially planned moments. Kids often gain emotional security from feeling that a caregiver is there in a steady way and that they will respond,” Dr. Sujatha Thyagarajan said. Dr Thyagarajan, Lead & HOD - Pediatric Intensive Care and Pediatric Emergency at Aster Whitefield Hospital, further explained, “That said, it doesn’t really mean working mothers have to be physically present every single moment, or even every hour, which is a more realistic view. The big point is the quality of attachment, the degree of responsiveness, and the emotional availability during the time together. Like, a parent who stays attentive, truly engaged, and emotionally linked for a few focused hours can often offer more developmental value than many hours where everyone is technically there but distracted.” Small daily habits that make a difference Dr Nitin M, Consultant - Pediatrician and Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Electronic City, Bengaluru, recommended what daily habits working mothers can adopt for the development of their child. “A regular schedule for waking up in the morning and preparing for bed will bring about great stability. Spending just fifteen minutes each day connecting with your child without any distraction from the gadgets, by either reading with him or telling stories from the day’s activities, provides a tremendous sense of security,” Dr Nitin said. Also read | WION Decodes | Why does coffee calm some people instead of waking them up? Here’s what science says Building emotional resilience in children According to pediatricians, children thrive when they feel heard, understood and accepted. Open conversations about their feelings, experiences, friendships and worries help build emotional awareness and resilience. Parents play a crucial role by actively listening, validating emotions and creating a safe, judgment-free environment where children feel comfortable expressing themselves. Simple everyday interactions during meals, playtime or bedtime can strengthen trust and emotional connection. “When children feel safe enough to share their thoughts, and they know the adults around them will stand by them, they are more likely to develop solid emotional well-being and healthier coping skills,” Dr Shetty said. The experts also cautioned parents against overindulging children with a bunch of material gifts to make up for their absence while working. Dr Thyagarajan explained that while it can be well-intentioned, “these actions don’t really touch a child’s real need for connection. And weirdly enough, they can also nudge along behavioural or emotional issues later.” Parenting in the age of working motherhood It is obvious that parenting has changed in our modern society, with working mothers today often facing the unique burden of balancing careers with the continuing responsibility of managing a home and raising children. “With today’s fast-paced lifestyle, it has become challenging for parents to constantly balance work, parenting and personal responsibilities,” Mathur said. “Parents of this generation required a different kind of adaptability and planning that it did in previous generations.” She added that parents today have less support due to the rise of nuclear families. She also stated that changing parenting advice can sometimes conflict with traditional practices. Singh said, “It has become harder for women because they can never completely shun the responsibility of home and kids, even when not available at all times. I do not want my kids to feel like I am not there for them when I am at work. So no matter how tired I am, I listen to them when they talk, when they want to show something, play with me, etc. As I said, mom guilt never ends. So it is double the work and double the stress, yet we do not want to give up any of it.”

<p>As more women pursue careers, working mothers are balancing jobs, childcare and household responsibilities, facing new pressures as they navigate the competing demands of work and family life. Here’s how they navigate challenges.</p>

The impossible balance: How working mothers navigate parenting, careers and family life

<p>The world celebrates the International Day of Yoga every year on June 21. The day is meant to raise awareness of the many benefits of yoga and motivate citizens worldwide to make it part of their daily routine. This year’s theme is “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”, focusing on the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of the practice for individuals across all stages of life.</p><h2>What is yoga?</h2><p>Yoga is an ancient practice that provides harmony to the body, mind and spirit. It contributes to improving an individual's physical strength, mental well-being, and inner awareness, and keeps them active and focused on their work. The word "yoga" is derived from the Sanskrit root "Yuj", which means "to unite" or "to join", symbolising the union of individual consciousness with a state of awareness. Originating in ancient India thousands of years ago, yoga has evolved into a holistic discipline practised at every corner and edge of the world.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-indus-valley-to-instagram-5-000-years-of-yoga-and-journey-of-a-civilization-1782027845696"><strong>From Indus Valley to Instagram: 5,000 years of yoga and journey of a civilization</strong></a></p><h2>Why do we celebrate Yoga Day?</h2><p>The world celebrates International Yoga Day every year on June 21. To raise global awareness about the profound physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of yoga. The day also encourages people worldwide to embrace this ancient practice to manage stress, stay active, and build a healthier, more harmonious lifestyle.</p>

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<h2>Why is yoga important for modern science?</h2><p>Yoga has increasingly captured attention in the field of modern science worldwide. How yoga manages chronic health conditions, reduces stress, and enhances brain function is what's grabbing attention nowadays and encouraging scientists to explore its effects deeply.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/international-yoga-day-2026-the-ancient-practice-that-became-the-world-s-most-participated-in-wellness-movement-1782027309006"><strong>International Yoga Day 2026: How yoga became India's biggest wellness movement</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to <i>Vedanet</i>, "modern science follows an outward orientation of the mind to discern the names, forms and quantities of the external world, which allows it to uncover the secret powers of nature and harness them through technology."</p><h2>What does modern science say about yoga?</h2><p>Reportedly, modern science suggests that yoga can offer several physical and mental health benefits when practised regularly. It is believed that yoga may help reduce stress, improve flexibility and balance, enhance mental well-being, and support overall quality of life. The potential role yoga plays in an individual's life helps in managing conditions such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, high blood pressure, and sleep disorders.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/international-yoga-day-2026-how-india-took-an-ancient-practice-to-the-united-nations-1782026478914"><strong>International Yoga Day 2026: How India took an ancient practice to the UN</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As per <i>Vedanet</i>, "Neuroscience can prove that yoga and meditation have positive values for body and brain, but science must learn the yogic way of knowledge to truly understand all that yoga can offer as a science of consciousness. This would require a new yogic neuroscience, which means looking beyond the body, nervous system, brain and brain chemistry to a deeper reality of consciousness, transcending time, space and person for a boundless self-awareness pervading the entire universe, the Atman/Purusha of Yoga and Vedanta."</p><h2>Benefits of yoga</h2><p>Yoga offers a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional benefits, making it one of the most holistic wellness practices in the world. Regular yoga practice can improve flexibility, balance, posture, and muscle strength while supporting heart health and overall fitness. Studies have also shown that yoga helps reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression by promoting relaxation and mindfulness. Additionally, it can improve sleep quality, enhance concentration, boost energy levels, and support healthy ageing.&nbsp;</p>

As millions of people across the globe celebrate International Yoga Day 2026, here's a look at what modern science says about yoga and what benefits practising yoga regularly can provide to an individual. 

The world celebrates the International Day of Yoga every year on June 21. The day is meant to raise awareness of the many benefits of yoga and motivate citizens worldwide to make it part of their daily routine. This year’s theme is “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”, focusing on the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of the practice for individuals across all stages of life. What is yoga? Yoga is an ancient practice that provides harmony to the body, mind and spirit. It contributes to improving an individual's physical strength, mental well-being, and inner awareness, and keeps them active and focused on their work. The word "yoga" is derived from the Sanskrit root "Yuj", which means "to unite" or "to join", symbolising the union of individual consciousness with a state of awareness. Originating in ancient India thousands of years ago, yoga has evolved into a holistic discipline practised at every corner and edge of the world. Also Read: From Indus Valley to Instagram: 5,000 years of yoga and journey of a civilization Why do we celebrate Yoga Day? The world celebrates International Yoga Day every year on June 21. To raise global awareness about the profound physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of yoga. The day also encourages people worldwide to embrace this ancient practice to manage stress, stay active, and build a healthier, more harmonious lifestyle.

<p>As millions of people across the globe celebrate International Yoga Day 2026, here's a look at what modern science says about yoga and what benefits practising yoga regularly can provide to an individual.&nbsp;</p>

International Yoga Day 2026: What modern science says about yoga's benefits

<p>Every year on June 21, we celebrate International Yoga Day to highlight and spread awareness about the benefits of practising yoga. Yoga is an ancient and holistic approach to health and well-being. It first originated in India and gained popularity worldwide for its physical and mental benefits. Based on benefits and rising popularity, the United Nations General Assembly voted to make June 21 International Day of Yoga.</p><h2>12th International Yoga Day: Theme and importance</h2><p>Today, on the 12th International Day of Yoga, millions of people across 192 countries are unrolling their mats in parks, stadiums, embassies, corporate offices and living rooms, united by a practice that is over 5,000 years old and more relevant than ever. This year's focus is 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing', which highlights the practice as a lifelong tool for physical, mental and emotional wellness.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national observance and performed the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) alongside thousands of enthusiasts at the historic Red Road in Kolkata, West Bengal.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/international-yoga-day-2026-how-india-took-an-ancient-practice-to-the-united-nations-1782026478914"><strong>International Yoga Day 2026: How India took an ancient practice to the United Nations</strong></a></p><h2>How many Countries participated globally? Number of yoga events conducted</h2><p>As per the report of the PIB, International Day of Yoga is celebrated in over 190 countries worldwide. The global observance features events spanning thousands of venues, coordinated by Indian missions abroad and local organisations. This year’s events, centred around the theme "Yoga for Healthy Ageing", are being coordinated by over 210 Indian missions holding thousands of sessions across the world, from Toronto to Tokyo.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/life-fun/international-yoga-day-science-behind-pranayama-and-how-it-improves-overall-health-1781874814791"><strong>International Yoga Day: Science behind Pranayama and how it improves our health</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A 100-day online yoga programme led by the Indian government achieved participation from more than 30 lakh people across 130 countries. The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) coordinated over 210 Indian missions to host yoga demonstrations at nearly 2,500 locations globally, including massive gatherings in Saudi Arabia, Japan, and Canada.</p><h2>Participation of across states in India and Union Territories</h2><p>As per the Ministry of AYUSH, registrations on the Yoga Sangam Portal have crossed the six lakh mark ahead of the 12th International Yoga Day, reflecting widespread participation by institutions and communities across the country. The ministry said the initiative has witnessed participation from all states and union territories, covering 778 districts across the country. More than 3.22 lakh government institutions and nearly two lakh educational institutions have registered on the portal. Over 16,000 private organisations, 5,000 non-governmental organisations and around 44,000 entities from other categories have also enrolled.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>West Bengal has recorded the highest number of registrations with over 2.76 lakh organisations, followed by Rajasthan with nearly 1.50 lakh registrations. Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha and Chhattisgarh have also reported significant participation.</p><h2>Growth of yoga centres worldwide</h2><p>The Press Information Bureau (PIB) and the Ministry of Ayush do not maintain a single, official registry of every private yoga centre in operation worldwide. However, the Government of India actively supports and tracks the global expansion of yoga through organised diplomatic initiatives and public health programs.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/international-yoga-day-malaika-arora-to-milind-soman-bollywood-celebrities-who-practice-yoga-for-holistic-well-being-1781693447466"><strong>Bollywood celebrities who practice yoga for holistic well-being</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As per PIB, the Government of India has established 12,500 Ayush Health and Wellness Centres and 150 Swami Vivekananda District Yoga Health Centres to provide structured yoga training and treatment. More than 100 major institutions in India and 10 institutions abroad are officially certified by the Indian Yoga Certification Board. Over 2,100 Indian missions collaborate with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) to host International Day of Yoga (IDY) events at nearly 2,500 locations globally.</p><h2>What is the economic value of the wellness industry?</h2><p>As per PIB, India’s Medical Value Travel (MVT) market, which encompasses both curative medical treatments and preventive wellness/AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy) services, is projected to reach $16.2 billion by 2030. The broader Indian tourism and travel sector significantly bolsters the economy by contributing 5.22 per cent to the GDP and supporting 8.46 crore (84.6 million) jobs.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-leads-international-yoga-day-celebrations-from-kolkata-says-yoga-has-power-to-unite-the-world-1782005027206"><strong>PM Modi leads International Yoga Day celebrations from Kolkata, says yoga has power to unite the world</strong></a><br>.<br>India is ranked 12th among the world's top 20 wellness tourism markets and 5th among the top 10 wellness destinations in the Asia-Pacific region. India's specific wellness and holistic health sectors have been noted to project robust growth. The yoga sector alone is rapidly expanding with a CAGR close to 12%, while broader wellness therapies see similar double-digit domestic and international demand.</p>

Celebrated annually on June 21, International Yoga Day brings together millions of people across countries, cultures, and age groups to embrace yoga's benefits. Here is how yoga has grown into India's biggest wellness movement.

Every year on June 21, we celebrate International Yoga Day to highlight and spread awareness about the benefits of practising yoga. Yoga is an ancient and holistic approach to health and well-being. It first originated in India and gained popularity worldwide for its physical and mental benefits. Based on benefits and rising popularity, the United Nations General Assembly voted to make June 21 International Day of Yoga. 12th International Yoga Day: Theme and importance Today, on the 12th International Day of Yoga, millions of people across 192 countries are unrolling their mats in parks, stadiums, embassies, corporate offices and living rooms, united by a practice that is over 5,000 years old and more relevant than ever. This year's focus is 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing', which highlights the practice as a lifelong tool for physical, mental and emotional wellness. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national observance and performed the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) alongside thousands of enthusiasts at the historic Red Road in Kolkata, West Bengal. Also Read: International Yoga Day 2026: How India took an ancient practice to the United Nations How many Countries participated globally? Number of yoga events conducted As per the report of the PIB, International Day of Yoga is celebrated in over 190 countries worldwide. The global observance features events spanning thousands of venues, coordinated by Indian missions abroad and local organisations. This year’s events, centred around the theme "Yoga for Healthy Ageing", are being coordinated by over 210 Indian missions holding thousands of sessions across the world, from Toronto to Tokyo. Also Read: International Yoga Day: Science behind Pranayama and how it improves our health A 100-day online yoga programme led by the Indian government achieved participation from more than 30 lakh people across 130 countries. The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) coordinated over 210 Indian missions to host yoga demonstrations at nearly 2,500 locations globally, including massive gatherings in Saudi Arabia, Japan, and Canada. Participation of across states in India and Union Territories As per the Ministry of AYUSH, registrations on the Yoga Sangam Portal have crossed the six lakh mark ahead of the 12th International Yoga Day, reflecting widespread participation by institutions and communities across the country. The ministry said the initiative has witnessed participation from all states and union territories, covering 778 districts across the country. More than 3.22 lakh government institutions and nearly two lakh educational institutions have registered on the portal. Over 16,000 private organisations, 5,000 non-governmental organisations and around 44,000 entities from other categories have also enrolled. West Bengal has recorded the highest number of registrations with over 2.76 lakh organisations, followed by Rajasthan with nearly 1.50 lakh registrations. Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha and Chhattisgarh have also reported significant participation. Growth of yoga centres worldwide The Press Information Bureau (PIB) and the Ministry of Ayush do not maintain a single, official registry of every private yoga centre in operation worldwide. However, the Government of India actively supports and tracks the global expansion of yoga through organised diplomatic initiatives and public health programs. Also Read: Bollywood celebrities who practice yoga for holistic well-being As per PIB, the Government of India has established 12,500 Ayush Health and Wellness Centres and 150 Swami Vivekananda District Yoga Health Centres to provide structured yoga training and treatment. More than 100 major institutions in India and 10 institutions abroad are officially certified by the Indian Yoga Certification Board. Over 2,100 Indian missions collaborate with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) to host International Day of Yoga (IDY) events at nearly 2,500 locations globally. What is the economic value of the wellness industry? As per PIB, India’s Medical Value Travel (MVT) market, which encompasses both curative medical treatments and preventive wellness/AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy) services, is projected to reach $16.2 billion by 2030. The broader Indian tourism and travel sector significantly bolsters the economy by contributing 5.22 per cent to the GDP and supporting 8.46 crore (84.6 million) jobs. Also Read: PM Modi leads International Yoga Day celebrations from Kolkata, says yoga has power to unite the world . India is ranked 12th among the world's top 20 wellness tourism markets and 5th among the top 10 wellness destinations in the Asia-Pacific region. India's specific wellness and holistic health sectors have been noted to project robust growth. The yoga sector alone is rapidly expanding with a CAGR close to 12%, while broader wellness therapies see similar double-digit domestic and international demand.

<p>Celebrated annually on June 21, International Yoga Day brings together millions of people across countries, cultures, and age groups to embrace yoga's benefits. Here is how yoga has grown into India's biggest wellness movement.</p>

International Yoga Day 2026: The ancient practice that became the world's most participated wellness movement

<p>On June 21, the world celebrates International Yoga Day to recognise that an ancient Indian practice has turned into a global movement embraced by millions. On this day, every year, people across continents roll out their yoga mats, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and promote the benefits of the practice. This year's theme is "Yoga For Healthy Ageing."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>But the journey of yoga from the ashrams of India to the corridors of the UN did not happen on its own. It was PM Modi who proposed the idea at the United Nations in 2014, and yoga secured one of the highest levels of support. Within less than three months, it had secured global recognition.</p><h2>PM Modi proposes International Yoga Day at the UN</h2><p>On September 27, 2014, PM Modi addressed the UN General Assembly and encouraged member nations to dedicate a day to yoga. Presenting it as more than a form of exercise, he said, "Yoga embodies unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfilment; harmony between man and nature; a holistic approach to health and well-being," as quoted by the UN.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/life-fun/international-yoga-day-science-behind-pranayama-and-how-it-improves-overall-health-1781874814791"><strong>International Yoga Day: The science behind Pranayama and how it improves overall health</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/international-yoga-day-malaika-arora-to-milind-soman-bollywood-celebrities-who-practice-yoga-for-holistic-well-being-1781693447466"><strong>Bollywood celebrities who practice yoga for holistic well-being</strong></a></p><h2>The proposal received extraordinary support</h2><p>On December 11, 2014, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution announcing June 21 as the International Day of Yoga. It received extraordinary support from across continents, with 177 countries co-sponsoring the resolution. This is said to be one of the highest levels of backing ever recorded for a UN resolution.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The adoption took place without a vote, and the resolution was passed under the agenda item relating to global health and foreign policy. In formally recognizing the practice, the UN noted that yoga "provides a holistic approach to health and well-being."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-leads-international-yoga-day-celebrations-from-kolkata-says-yoga-has-power-to-unite-the-world-1782005027206"><strong>PM Modi leads International Yoga Day celebrations from Kolkata, says yoga has power to unite the world</strong></a></p><h2>India's most successful soft-power export</h2><p>The speed of the resolution's passage was remarkable by UN standards. It is said that International observances often take years to gain support, but yoga's universal appeal acted as a bridge. The proposal attracted backing from countries with different traditions and geopolitical interests.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon also welcomed the initiative, saying, "Yoga can bring communities together in an inclusive manner that generates respect" and can "promote peace and development." He further highlighted its role in building "resilience against non-communicable diseases."</p><h2>Significance on June 21</h2><p>June 21 was chosen for Yoga Day as it marks the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, the longest day of the year. The day is said to carry cultural and spiritual significance in many traditions.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/beyond-the-scale-the-hard-truth-about-fitness-nobody-talks-about-1781351991790"><strong>Beyond the scale: The hard truth about fitness nobody talks about</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p><p>The first International Yoga Day was observed on June 21, 2015, and in India, thousands gathered at Rajpath in New Delhi for a mass yoga demonstration led by Prime Minister Modi. The event also set Guinness World Records for the largest yoga class.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Additionally, in 2016, yoga was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The World Health Organization has also collaborated with India on wellness initiatives, including the launch of the mYoga mobile application.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Since the inauguration of International Yoga Day, the practice has been held at multiple iconic landmarks, including New York's Times Square and the UN Headquarters, the Eiffel Tower, the Sydney Opera House and locations near Mount Everest.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

As the world celebrates International Yoga Day 2026, let's understand how an ancient Indian practice reached United Nations, and recorded one of the highest levels of support a UN resolution. Read on to know more.

On June 21, the world celebrates International Yoga Day to recognise that an ancient Indian practice has turned into a global movement embraced by millions. On this day, every year, people across continents roll out their yoga mats, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and promote the benefits of the practice. This year's theme is "Yoga For Healthy Ageing." But the journey of yoga from the ashrams of India to the corridors of the UN did not happen on its own. It was PM Modi who proposed the idea at the United Nations in 2014, and yoga secured one of the highest levels of support. Within less than three months, it had secured global recognition. PM Modi proposes International Yoga Day at the UN On September 27, 2014, PM Modi addressed the UN General Assembly and encouraged member nations to dedicate a day to yoga. Presenting it as more than a form of exercise, he said, "Yoga embodies unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfilment; harmony between man and nature; a holistic approach to health and well-being," as quoted by the UN. Also Read: International Yoga Day: The science behind Pranayama and how it improves overall health

<p>As the world celebrates International Yoga Day 2026, let's understand how an ancient Indian practice reached the United Nations and recorded one of the highest levels of support for a UN resolution. Read on to know more.</p>

International Yoga Day 2026: How India took an ancient practice to the United Nations

<p>A healthy gut houses trillions of microbes that dictate essential functions of our body, acting as the central hub to digesting food, regulating our immune system, producing mood-altering neurotransmitters, and controlling metabolism. One of the major roles played by the gut is to keep a balanced microbiome, which helps prevent harmful pathogens from entering the bloodstream and regulates inflammatory responses, as nearly 70 per cent of our immune system resides in it.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The other roles include breaking down food and absorbing vital vitamins, minerals, and amino acids required for cellular repair and energy. It also produces about 90 per cent of serotonin in the body, which acts to communicate directly with the brain, influencing mood, anxiety levels, and cognitive function. In addition, it also influences how our body stores fat, controls blood sugar, and regulates hunger hormones.</p><p><br>Health experts also highlight the growing importance of gut health, noting that maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is essential not only for digestion but also for immunity, mental wellbeing, metabolism and healthy ageing. Reacting to the healthy gut, Dr Saroj Dubey, Consultant Gastroenterologist at Kailash Hospital, Noida, said the gut houses trillions of microorganisms that collectively form the microbiome.</p><p><br>"The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms that collectively form the gut microbiome. These microbes do much more than help digest food. They support immune function, help produce essential nutrients, regulate metabolism, and play an important role in maintaining the body's overall balance. In fact, a significant portion of the immune system resides in the gut, making it a critical line of defence for long-term wellbeing. What makes the gut particularly important is its influence beyond digestion. Through the gut-brain axis, the gut and brain are in constant communication, affecting everything from mood and energy levels to overall health. When the balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria is disrupted, a condition known as dysbiosis can contribute to chronic inflammation, which has been associated with a range of long-term health concerns, including metabolic and lifestyle-related disorders," Dr Saroj Dubey said.</p><p><br>However, Dr Dubey said maintaining gut health does not necessarily need drastic lifestyle changes. He added that a diet rich in fibre, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fermented foods, jointly with frequent physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress management, can help to provide a healthy gut microbiome. "Over time, these habits not only support digestive health but also lay a stronger foundation for overall health, resilience, and healthy ageing," he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/doctors-remove-10-cm-long-living-worms-from-under-woman-s-skin-in-china-here-is-how-she-got-infected-1781789024261">Chinese woman killed frogs at home, ended up with 10 cm-long living worms under her skin</a></p><h3>Modern lifestyle &amp; normalised unhealthy eating habits</h3><p>Echoing a similar opinion on gut health, Pranshul Aggarwal, Executive Director of Medicef Pharma and Purobien Lifesciences, noted that modern lifestyle often comes at the cost of personal health. He stated that the modern lifestyle has normalised unhealthy eating habits, leading to imbalances in our diet, which impact our health gradually.</p><p><br>"In today's fast-paced world, being in good health is perhaps the greatest blessing. Ironically, many of us spend our healthiest years chasing financial success, often compromising our well-being in the process. We work harder, sleep less, eat on the go, and neglect self-care—only to spend our hard-earned money later trying to restore the health we once took for granted. At the heart of a healthy body and mind lies an often-overlooked organ system: the GUT. Modern lifestyles have normalised unhealthy eating habits, with refined foods, excess sugar, processed meals, and nutritional imbalances becoming a daily routine. Amidst the rush of achieving our goals, we frequently ignore the subtle signals our gut sends through digestive discomfort, fatigue, improper sleep and other health disturbances," Aggarwal said.</p><p><br>"For decades, researchers have sought to understand why so many acute and chronic health conditions appear to be linked to GUT health. Traditional wisdom, particularly systems such as Ayurveda, has long emphasised the central role of digestive health in overall well-being. Today, modern science is increasingly validating this perspective through research on the GUT microbiome, the trillions of beneficial microorganisms that reside within our digestive tract," he added.</p><p><br>Aggarwal added that modern scientific research is increasingly validating these traditional beliefs through studies of the gut microbiome, which consists of trillions of beneficial microorganisms living within the digestive tract. He concluded by emphasising that gut health should be viewed as a cornerstone of overall wellness.</p><p><br>"These microscopic allies influence immunity, metabolism, energy production, brain function, even growth and development. A balanced gut microbiome supports physical vitality and mental wellness, while its disruption can contribute to a range of acute and chronic health concerns," Aggarwal also said.</p><p><br>"The message is clear: a healthy gut is not just about digestion, it is the foundation of long-term health. By nurturing our gut, we take a step toward achieving a healthier body, a sharper mind, and a better quality of life," he further said.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Health experts also highlight the growing importance of gut health, noting that maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is essential not only for digestion but also for immunity, mental wellbeing, metabolism and healthy ageing.

A healthy gut houses trillions of microbes that dictate essential functions of our body, acting as the central hub to digesting food, regulating our immune system, producing mood-altering neurotransmitters, and controlling metabolism. One of the major roles played by the gut is to keep a balanced microbiome, which helps prevent harmful pathogens from entering the bloodstream and regulates inflammatory responses, as nearly 70 per cent of our immune system resides in it. The other roles include breaking down food and absorbing vital vitamins, minerals, and amino acids required for cellular repair and energy. It also produces about 90 per cent of serotonin in the body, which acts to communicate directly with the brain, influencing mood, anxiety levels, and cognitive function. In addition, it also influences how our body stores fat, controls blood sugar, and regulates hunger hormones. Health experts also highlight the growing importance of gut health, noting that maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is essential not only for digestion but also for immunity, mental wellbeing, metabolism and healthy ageing. Reacting to the healthy gut, Dr Saroj Dubey, Consultant Gastroenterologist at Kailash Hospital, Noida, said the gut houses trillions of microorganisms that collectively form the microbiome. "The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms that collectively form the gut microbiome. These microbes do much more than help digest food. They support immune function, help produce essential nutrients, regulate metabolism, and play an important role in maintaining the body's overall balance. In fact, a significant portion of the immune system resides in the gut, making it a critical line of defence for long-term wellbeing. What makes the gut particularly important is its influence beyond digestion. Through the gut-brain axis, the gut and brain are in constant communication, affecting everything from mood and energy levels to overall health. When the balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria is disrupted, a condition known as dysbiosis can contribute to chronic inflammation, which has been associated with a range of long-term health concerns, including metabolic and lifestyle-related disorders," Dr Saroj Dubey said. However, Dr Dubey said maintaining gut health does not necessarily need drastic lifestyle changes. He added that a diet rich in fibre, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fermented foods, jointly with frequent physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress management, can help to provide a healthy gut microbiome. "Over time, these habits not only support digestive health but also lay a stronger foundation for overall health, resilience, and healthy ageing," he added. Also read: Chinese woman killed frogs at home, ended up with 10 cm-long living worms under her skin Modern lifestyle & normalised unhealthy eating habits Echoing a similar opinion on gut health, Pranshul Aggarwal, Executive Director of Medicef Pharma and Purobien Lifesciences, noted that modern lifestyle often comes at the cost of personal health. He stated that the modern lifestyle has normalised unhealthy eating habits, leading to imbalances in our diet, which impact our health gradually. "In today's fast-paced world, being in good health is perhaps the greatest blessing. Ironically, many of us spend our healthiest years chasing financial success, often compromising our well-being in the process. We work harder, sleep less, eat on the go, and neglect self-care—only to spend our hard-earned money later trying to restore the health we once took for granted. At the heart of a healthy body and mind lies an often-overlooked organ system: the GUT. Modern lifestyles have normalised unhealthy eating habits, with refined foods, excess sugar, processed meals, and nutritional imbalances becoming a daily routine. Amidst the rush of achieving our goals, we frequently ignore the subtle signals our gut sends through digestive discomfort, fatigue, improper sleep and other health disturbances," Aggarwal said. "For decades, researchers have sought to understand why so many acute and chronic health conditions appear to be linked to GUT health. Traditional wisdom, particularly systems such as Ayurveda, has long emphasised the central role of digestive health in overall well-being. Today, modern science is increasingly validating this perspective through research on the GUT microbiome, the trillions of beneficial microorganisms that reside within our digestive tract," he added. Aggarwal added that modern scientific research is increasingly validating these traditional beliefs through studies of the gut microbiome, which consists of trillions of beneficial microorganisms living within the digestive tract. He concluded by emphasising that gut health should be viewed as a cornerstone of overall wellness. "These microscopic allies influence immunity, metabolism, energy production, brain function, even growth and development. A balanced gut microbiome supports physical vitality and mental wellness, while its disruption can contribute to a range of acute and chronic health concerns," Aggarwal also said. "The message is clear: a healthy gut is not just about digestion, it is the foundation of long-term health. By nurturing our gut, we take a step toward achieving a healthier body, a sharper mind, and a better quality of life," he further said.

<p>Health experts also highlight the growing importance of gut health, noting that maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is essential not only for digestion but also for immunity, mental wellbeing, metabolism and healthy ageing.</p>

Why healthy gut is foundation of long-term health? Experts explain

<p>A woman in Kerala has been admitted to an isolation ward at Kottayam Medical College when she developed Ebola-like symptoms after returning to the country from South Sudan, the officials said on Thursday (Jun 18). Health authorities are conducting tests to determine whether she has been infected with Ebola, a deadly virus that has killed hundreds in parts of Africa.</p><p>The authorities were alerted to the suspected case when the woman approached a private hospital with a fever on Wednesday (Jun 17). Given her recent travel history from South Sudan, the State Health Department was alerted, and she was shifted to Kottayam Medical College for further evaluation.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/injection-gives-you-ebola-viral-video-shows-vaccine-distrust-in-drc-amid-outbreak-1781161843088"><strong>'Injection gives you Ebola': Viral video shows vaccine distrust in DRC amid outbreak</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Kerala health minister assures no cause for concern</strong></h2><p>Kerala Health Minister K Muraleedharan assured that there was no immediate cause for concern. “The patient suspected of having Ebola was shifted to the isolation ward at Kottayam Medical College as soon as symptoms were noticed. The test results have not yet been received. However, according to the Medical Superintendent, there is no immediate cause for concern based on the preliminary assessment,” he said.</p><p>According to officials, her blood samples have been sent to a laboratory to determine whether she had been infected with the virus. As a precaution, health officials have compiled a list of contacts and begun monitoring measures. The woman is currently being monitored in a dedicated isolation ward at the medical college.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ebola-scare-in-india-as-ugandan-woman-develops-symptoms-in-bengaluru-what-we-know-1779854012445"><strong>Ebola scare in India as Ugandan woman shows symptoms in Bengaluru: What we know</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Health authorities on vigilance</strong></h2><p>The suspected case comes as the Kerala Health Department remains on high alert following reports of Ebola infections in other countries. Authorities had earlier directed hospitals to strengthen surveillance and step up monitoring of travellers arriving from African nations.</p><p>Ebola is a highly contagious viral disease transmitted through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person. Common symptoms include fever, weakness, vomiting and diarrhoea, while severe infections can lead to internal and external bleeding. Health officials have emphasised that the case is still being investigated and have urged the public to remain calm until the test results are confirmed.</p>

A woman who recently returned from South Sudan has been isolated at Kottayam Medical College after developing Ebola-like symptoms. Tests are underway, and Kerala health authorities have begun monitoring contacts.

A woman in Kerala has been admitted to an isolation ward at Kottayam Medical College when she developed Ebola-like symptoms after returning to the country from South Sudan, the officials said on Thursday (Jun 18). Health authorities are conducting tests to determine whether she has been infected with Ebola, a deadly virus that has killed hundreds in parts of Africa. The authorities were alerted to the suspected case when the woman approached a private hospital with a fever on Wednesday (Jun 17). Given her recent travel history from South Sudan, the State Health Department was alerted, and she was shifted to Kottayam Medical College for further evaluation. Also read | 'Injection gives you Ebola': Viral video shows vaccine distrust in DRC amid outbreak Kerala health minister assures no cause for concern Kerala Health Minister K Muraleedharan assured that there was no immediate cause for concern. “The patient suspected of having Ebola was shifted to the isolation ward at Kottayam Medical College as soon as symptoms were noticed. The test results have not yet been received. However, according to the Medical Superintendent, there is no immediate cause for concern based on the preliminary assessment,” he said. According to officials, her blood samples have been sent to a laboratory to determine whether she had been infected with the virus. As a precaution, health officials have compiled a list of contacts and begun monitoring measures. The woman is currently being monitored in a dedicated isolation ward at the medical college. Also read | Ebola scare in India as Ugandan woman shows symptoms in Bengaluru: What we know Health authorities on vigilance The suspected case comes as the Kerala Health Department remains on high alert following reports of Ebola infections in other countries. Authorities had earlier directed hospitals to strengthen surveillance and step up monitoring of travellers arriving from African nations. Ebola is a highly contagious viral disease transmitted through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person. Common symptoms include fever, weakness, vomiting and diarrhoea, while severe infections can lead to internal and external bleeding. Health officials have emphasised that the case is still being investigated and have urged the public to remain calm until the test results are confirmed.

<p>A woman who recently returned from South Sudan has been isolated at Kottayam Medical College after developing Ebola-like symptoms. Tests are underway, and Kerala health authorities have begun monitoring contacts.</p>

Ebola scare in Kerala: Woman returning from South Sudan falls ill – What we know

<p>For decades, major metropolitan areas have been the ultimate magnets for ambitious professionals and culture seekers. However, recent demographic shifts reveal a surprising new trend. Across the globe, people of all age groups are relocating from dense urban centres to smaller communities. Driven by changing work habits and economic pressures, this urban exodus is transforming the way we view city living and reshaping the travel map for digital nomads.</p><h2><strong>The Rise of Flexible Working Arrangements</strong></h2><p>The connection between residential choices and traditional office spaces continues to evolve rapidly. The global pandemic fundamentally altered workplace norms, proving that technology allows people to work effectively from almost anywhere. As companies embrace permanent remote or hybrid work arrangements, employees are no longer chained to downtown office blocks. This flexibility has encouraged younger professionals to move to smaller communities, as they are often willing to tolerate a longer, occasional commute to the city a few days a week.</p><h2><strong>Escaping the High Cost of Urban Living</strong></h2><p>Economic factors play a massive role in this demographic shift. The rising cost of housing in big cities makes it difficult for many to achieve their desired standard of living. Urban dwellers are fleeing expensive areas in search of lower housing costs and more physical space, which less dense suburban or rural places readily offer. Furthermore, this outward migration is not limited to young workers; many retirees are also downsizing and leaving the big city behind to stretch their retirement funds further.</p><h2><strong>A Changing Definition of Quality of Life</strong></h2><p>Beyond finances and work, there is a renewed focus on personal well-being. Leaving crowded cities often means trading urban congestion, high-priced amenities, and crowded transit systems for a quieter lifestyle. Newcomers moving into smaller towns frequently bring significant resources with them, which stimulates the local economy and creates employment opportunities for existing residents. This influx is breathing new life into regional communities, turning them into vibrant hubs that rival traditional city neighbourhoods.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As the appeal of mega-cities softens, smaller towns are experiencing a cultural renaissance. For modern travellers and remote workers, this shift offers a fantastic opportunity to explore lesser-known regional communities that now boast fresh investment, local charm, and a much slower pace of life.</p>

Driven by hybrid work arrangements and rising housing costs, people of all ages are increasingly leaving large cities for smaller communities. This global shift is revitalising regional towns, offering remote workers and travellers a slower pace of life and fresh cultural experiences.

For decades, major metropolitan areas have been the ultimate magnets for ambitious professionals and culture seekers. However, recent demographic shifts reveal a surprising new trend. Across the globe, people of all age groups are relocating from dense urban centres to smaller communities. Driven by changing work habits and economic pressures, this urban exodus is transforming the way we view city living and reshaping the travel map for digital nomads. The Rise of Flexible Working Arrangements The connection between residential choices and traditional office spaces continues to evolve rapidly. The global pandemic fundamentally altered workplace norms, proving that technology allows people to work effectively from almost anywhere. As companies embrace permanent remote or hybrid work arrangements, employees are no longer chained to downtown office blocks. This flexibility has encouraged younger professionals to move to smaller communities, as they are often willing to tolerate a longer, occasional commute to the city a few days a week. Escaping the High Cost of Urban Living Economic factors play a massive role in this demographic shift. The rising cost of housing in big cities makes it difficult for many to achieve their desired standard of living. Urban dwellers are fleeing expensive areas in search of lower housing costs and more physical space, which less dense suburban or rural places readily offer. Furthermore, this outward migration is not limited to young workers; many retirees are also downsizing and leaving the big city behind to stretch their retirement funds further. A Changing Definition of Quality of Life Beyond finances and work, there is a renewed focus on personal well-being. Leaving crowded cities often means trading urban congestion, high-priced amenities, and crowded transit systems for a quieter lifestyle. Newcomers moving into smaller towns frequently bring significant resources with them, which stimulates the local economy and creates employment opportunities for existing residents. This influx is breathing new life into regional communities, turning them into vibrant hubs that rival traditional city neighbourhoods. As the appeal of mega-cities softens, smaller towns are experiencing a cultural renaissance. For modern travellers and remote workers, this shift offers a fantastic opportunity to explore lesser-known regional communities that now boast fresh investment, local charm, and a much slower pace of life.

<p>Driven by hybrid work arrangements and rising housing costs, people of all ages are increasingly leaving large cities for smaller communities. This global shift is revitalising regional towns, offering remote workers and travellers a slower pace of life and fresh cultural experiences.</p>

Why are more people leaving big cities behind?

<p>Situated between the East China Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, Okinawa is Japan's fifth-largest island. Beyond its subtropical climate and coral reefs, this destination holds a profound global reputation. Known historically as the land of immortals, Okinawa is a designated Blue Zone with an exceptionally high concentration of centenarians. For wellness travellers, exploring this island provides an authentic look into a remarkably healthy lifestyle that genuinely defies ageing.</p><h2><strong>The Lifelong Bond of Moai</strong></h2><p>One of the core pillars of Okinawan longevity is a unique social support system known as&nbsp;<i>moai</i>. This cultural tradition dates back hundreds of years when villages pooled financial resources to assist families in need. Today, a&nbsp;<i>moai</i> functions as a tight-knit social group, usually formed in childhood, where members commit to supporting one another for life. These regular gatherings provide emotional security and financial help during tough times, significantly reducing daily stress and preventing the isolation that often affects older populations in western countries.</p><h2><strong>Living with a Sense of Ikigai</strong></h2><p>Okinawans rarely use a direct translation for the modern concept of retirement. Instead, daily life is guided by&nbsp;<i>ikigai</i>, a philosophy that translates to having a clear reason to wake up each morning. This cultural mindset encourages individuals to remain active, self-accepted, and deeply connected to their passions well into their nineties and hundreds. Medical researchers tracking global health trends note that this constant sense of purpose keeps mindsets positive, lowers stress hormones, and heavily reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases among the elderly.</p><h2><strong>Mindful Eating and Hara Hachi Bu</strong></h2><p>The traditional Okinawan diet is fundamentally plant-based and dense in nutrients. Unlike the rest of Japan where rice is the staple, the historic primary carbohydrate here is the purple sweet potato, which has a low glycemic load. Meals heavily feature local soy products like tofu and fresh green vegetables. Crucially, eating habits are governed by the Confucian-inspired phrase&nbsp;<i>hara hachi bu</i>. Residents recite this before meals to remind themselves to stop eating when they are 80 per cent full, a built-in method of natural calorie restriction that keeps body mass indexes consistently low.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A journey to Okinawa provides an educational blueprint for a balanced life. By prioritising deep social connections, eating mindfully, and nurturing a daily purpose, you can bring home practical wellness habits that outlast any typical holiday souvenir.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Okinawa is a Japanese Blue Zone globally famous for its high concentration of centenarians. This extreme longevity stems from traditional community networks called moai, a life purpose known as ikigai, and a plant-based diet governed by mindful eating practices.

Situated between the East China Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, Okinawa is Japan's fifth-largest island. Beyond its subtropical climate and coral reefs, this destination holds a profound global reputation. Known historically as the land of immortals, Okinawa is a designated Blue Zone with an exceptionally high concentration of centenarians. For wellness travellers, exploring this island provides an authentic look into a remarkably healthy lifestyle that genuinely defies ageing. The Lifelong Bond of Moai One of the core pillars of Okinawan longevity is a unique social support system known as moai. This cultural tradition dates back hundreds of years when villages pooled financial resources to assist families in need. Today, a moai functions as a tight-knit social group, usually formed in childhood, where members commit to supporting one another for life. These regular gatherings provide emotional security and financial help during tough times, significantly reducing daily stress and preventing the isolation that often affects older populations in western countries. Living with a Sense of Ikigai Okinawans rarely use a direct translation for the modern concept of retirement. Instead, daily life is guided by ikigai, a philosophy that translates to having a clear reason to wake up each morning. This cultural mindset encourages individuals to remain active, self-accepted, and deeply connected to their passions well into their nineties and hundreds. Medical researchers tracking global health trends note that this constant sense of purpose keeps mindsets positive, lowers stress hormones, and heavily reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases among the elderly. Mindful Eating and Hara Hachi Bu The traditional Okinawan diet is fundamentally plant-based and dense in nutrients. Unlike the rest of Japan where rice is the staple, the historic primary carbohydrate here is the purple sweet potato, which has a low glycemic load. Meals heavily feature local soy products like tofu and fresh green vegetables. Crucially, eating habits are governed by the Confucian-inspired phrase hara hachi bu. Residents recite this before meals to remind themselves to stop eating when they are 80 per cent full, a built-in method of natural calorie restriction that keeps body mass indexes consistently low. A journey to Okinawa provides an educational blueprint for a balanced life. By prioritising deep social connections, eating mindfully, and nurturing a daily purpose, you can bring home practical wellness habits that outlast any typical holiday souvenir.

<p>Okinawa is a Japanese Blue Zone globally famous for its high concentration of centenarians. This extreme longevity stems from traditional community networks called moai, a life purpose known as ikigai, and a plant-based diet governed by mindful eating practices.</p>

Why is this island known as the Land of Long Life?

<p>Social media is more addictive than alcohol, smoking and gaming and is harming us immensely, said Dr Sanjeev Bagai, Paediatrician &amp; Paediatric Nephrologist, Chairman &amp; Managing Director, Nephron Health Care, while speaking at WION Health Pulse on Wednesday.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Shedding light on the negative impact of the increasing use of digital devices and social media, Dr Bagai said, “As per authentic scientific data in established peer-reviewed international journals, every hour more than three to four hours a week of screen time and social media use leads to 13% decrease in our cognitive functions. Just imagine what we are doing to ourselves.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-health-pulse-sleep-being-neglected-disruptive-sleep-pattern-causes-a-huge-20-30-decline-in-cognitive-skills-dr-bagai-1781697488011"><strong>WION Health Pulse | ‘Sleep being neglected, disruptive sleep pattern causes a huge 20-30% decline in cognitive skills’: Dr Bagai</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Citing a study to buttress his point, Dr Bagai said, “The largest study was in Stanford last year in which 35,000 university students were enrolled. They were kept away from social media and screen time for six months. This resulted in 29% increases in academic performance, memory, recall, writing skills, mathematics.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“We have actually become slave of a device, and are becoming more and more dependent on it,” he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Sharing the scientific and medical aspects of increased social media use, Dr Bagai said, “Social media and abnormal sleep patterns release dopamine, the reward hormone which is addictive. Social media addiction releases more reward hormone than alcohol, smoking, gaming or any other addiction. This leads to an abnormal ratio of serotonin, gabapentin and dopamine in the body. This causes disruption which is corroborated by MRI studies, brain volume studies cognitive studies.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-health-pulse-india-emerging-as-preferred-healthcare-destination-across-the-world-says-dr-jitendra-singh-1781691188525"><strong>WION Health Pulse: India emerging as preferred healthcare destination across the world, says Dr Jitendra Singh</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Use social media as less as possible. Our lives cannot be dictated by reels, shares and likes,” he concluded.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Mini Shastri, Founder, Om Yoga Shala, stressed on the need to be conscious of our good and bad habits and highlighted the importance of sleep.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-health-pulse-president-of-guyana-irfaan-ali-joins-rhythm-of-the-new-health-order-1781678524516"><strong>WION Health Pulse: President of Guyana, Irfaan Ali joins rhythm of the new health order</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Replying to a query on whether putting away the phone would be an easy and effective solution, she said, “It is a biochemistry of habits, good habits and bad habits. The brain doesn’t understand habits, both of them have the same reward. Dopamine is the same for good and bad habits.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>She stressed on the need to be conscious of our good and bad habits. Increasing one good habit breaks a cycle and changes so many negative things, she added.</p>

Social media and abnormal sleep patterns release dopamine, the reward hormone which is addictive. Social media addiction releases more reward hormone than alcohol, smoking, gaming or any other addiction. This leads to an abnormal ratio of serotonin, gabapentin and dopamine in the body. 

Social media is more addictive than alcohol, smoking and gaming and is harming us immensely, said Dr Sanjeev Bagai, Paediatrician & Paediatric Nephrologist, Chairman & Managing Director, Nephron Health Care, while speaking at WION Health Pulse on Wednesday. Shedding light on the negative impact of the increasing use of digital devices and social media, Dr Bagai said, “As per authentic scientific data in established peer-reviewed international journals, every hour more than three to four hours a week of screen time and social media use leads to 13% decrease in our cognitive functions. Just imagine what we are doing to ourselves.” Also Read: WION Health Pulse | ‘Sleep being neglected, disruptive sleep pattern causes a huge 20-30% decline in cognitive skills’: Dr Bagai Citing a study to buttress his point, Dr Bagai said, “The largest study was in Stanford last year in which 35,000 university students were enrolled. They were kept away from social media and screen time for six months. This resulted in 29% increases in academic performance, memory, recall, writing skills, mathematics.” “We have actually become slave of a device, and are becoming more and more dependent on it,” he added. Sharing the scientific and medical aspects of increased social media use, Dr Bagai said, “Social media and abnormal sleep patterns release dopamine, the reward hormone which is addictive. Social media addiction releases more reward hormone than alcohol, smoking, gaming or any other addiction. This leads to an abnormal ratio of serotonin, gabapentin and dopamine in the body. This causes disruption which is corroborated by MRI studies, brain volume studies cognitive studies.” Also Read: WION Health Pulse: India emerging as preferred healthcare destination across the world, says Dr Jitendra Singh “Use social media as less as possible. Our lives cannot be dictated by reels, shares and likes,” he concluded. Mini Shastri, Founder, Om Yoga Shala, stressed on the need to be conscious of our good and bad habits and highlighted the importance of sleep. Also Read: WION Health Pulse: President of Guyana, Irfaan Ali joins rhythm of the new health order Replying to a query on whether putting away the phone would be an easy and effective solution, she said, “It is a biochemistry of habits, good habits and bad habits. The brain doesn’t understand habits, both of them have the same reward. Dopamine is the same for good and bad habits.” She stressed on the need to be conscious of our good and bad habits. Increasing one good habit breaks a cycle and changes so many negative things, she added.

<p>Social media and abnormal sleep patterns release dopamine, the reward hormone which is addictive. Social media addiction releases more reward hormone than alcohol, smoking, gaming or any other addiction. This leads to an abnormal ratio of serotonin, gabapentin and dopamine in the body.&nbsp;</p>

Wion Health Pulse | Social media more addictive than alcohol, smoking, gaming, says expert

<p>Sleep is the most neglected part of recovery after illness, said Dr Sanjeev Bagai, Paediatrician &amp; Paediatric Nephrologist, Chairman &amp; Managing Director, Nephron Health Care, while speaking at WION Health Pulse on Wednesday.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Emphasising strongly the importance of sleep, Dr Bagai said, “Today’s generation generally tends to sleep late, and the younger sleep even later. If you sleep late or sleep less, it is sleep disruption, which is an inflammatory episode in your body, and this happens recurrently. There are scientific studies to prove that if you have disruptive sleep patterns for five nights out of seven for six weeks or eight weeks, then you have a 20% to 30% decline in your cognitive skills. That’s huge in terms of memory, attention, behaviour patterns, aggression and relationship building, and this is affecting the youth even more.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-health-pulse-india-emerging-as-preferred-healthcare-destination-across-the-world-says-dr-jitendra-singh-1781691188525"><strong>WION Health Pulse: India emerging as preferred healthcare destination across the world, says Dr Jitendra Singh</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>We also tend to overlook the importance of light; you have to look at the lux of light, he said, adding, “Darkness at night affects your circadian rhythm, it releases more cortisol, decreases testosterone in men, and disrupts oestrogen in women; these are all scientific things.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Referring to the increasing use of digital devices and social media, Dr Bagai said, “You have to look at screen time; you have to look at social media impact even in the time of hospital or recovery.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-health-pulse-president-of-guyana-irfaan-ali-joins-rhythm-of-the-new-health-order-1781678524516"><strong>WION Health Pulse: President of Guyana, Irfaan Ali joins rhythm of the new health order</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Besides, during recovery from illness you have to take care of hygiene at home, which we take for granted. Hygiene is very important during recovery in terms of infection control and overall ambience.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“For wellness as a whole, you have to look at the complete umbrella. Human beings, when they become ill, they are not a disease entity. They are not just a bed number or ward number.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Mini Shastri, Founder, Om Yoga Shala, said that sleep is one of the three pillars of Ayurveda, besides diet and lifestyle.</p>

Scientific studies prove that having a disruptive sleep pattern for five nights out of seven for six weeks or eight weeks leads to a 20% to 30% decline in cognitive skills, which is huge in terms of memory, attention, behaviour patterns, and relationship building, and is affecting the youth.

Sleep is the most neglected part of recovery after illness, said Dr Sanjeev Bagai, Paediatrician & Paediatric Nephrologist, Chairman & Managing Director, Nephron Health Care, while speaking at WION Health Pulse on Wednesday. Emphasising strongly the importance of sleep, Dr Bagai said, “Today’s generation generally tends to sleep late, and the younger sleep even later. If you sleep late or sleep less, it is sleep disruption, which is an inflammatory episode in your body, and this happens recurrently. There are scientific studies to prove that if you have disruptive sleep patterns for five nights out of seven for six weeks or eight weeks, then you have a 20% to 30% decline in your cognitive skills. That’s huge in terms of memory, attention, behaviour patterns, aggression and relationship building, and this is affecting the youth even more.” Also Read: WION Health Pulse: India emerging as preferred healthcare destination across the world, says Dr Jitendra Singh We also tend to overlook the importance of light; you have to look at the lux of light, he said, adding, “Darkness at night affects your circadian rhythm, it releases more cortisol, decreases testosterone in men, and disrupts oestrogen in women; these are all scientific things.” Referring to the increasing use of digital devices and social media, Dr Bagai said, “You have to look at screen time; you have to look at social media impact even in the time of hospital or recovery.” Also Read: WION Health Pulse: President of Guyana, Irfaan Ali joins rhythm of the new health order “Besides, during recovery from illness you have to take care of hygiene at home, which we take for granted. Hygiene is very important during recovery in terms of infection control and overall ambience.” “For wellness as a whole, you have to look at the complete umbrella. Human beings, when they become ill, they are not a disease entity. They are not just a bed number or ward number.” Mini Shastri, Founder, Om Yoga Shala, said that sleep is one of the three pillars of Ayurveda, besides diet and lifestyle.

<p>Scientific studies prove that having a disruptive sleep pattern for five nights out of seven for six weeks or eight weeks leads to a 20% to 30% decline in cognitive skills, which is huge in terms of memory, attention, behaviour patterns, and relationship building, and is affecting the youth.</p>

WION Health Pulse | ‘Sleep being neglected, disruptive sleep pattern causes a huge 20-30% decline in cognitive skills’: Dr Bagai

<p>The third session at WION Health Pulse was on AI &amp; Digital Health Intergration. The panelist were well known Indian surgeons including Dr Sama Akber, the Director, Oxymed Hospital, Dr Rohit Luthra, Robotic Orthopaedic Surgeon &amp; Director of Arcus Hospital,&nbsp;<br>Dr Nitish Naik, Senior Cardiologist and Professor, Department of Cardiology, AIIMS and Dr Arjun Dang , Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Partner at Dr Dangs Lab LLP.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The surgeons spoke to WION Deeksha Teri about integration AI in medical practices and what's the future.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Dr Naik was firm that AI and Robotics would not replace the medical practioners but help in aiding them to improve their work.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Robotics and AI will be integrated into medical practice and see us delivering quality care to patients. It will create digital twins. It will help in surgical procedure.Not replace the doctors.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Dr Akbar stated that AI will help in accessing remote areas of India which lack specialists. Citing interiors of South India, where a health centres in villages have a single doctors, Akbar said, AI will help doctors in identifying the diseases accurately.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Low tech and easy accessibility. AI should be used in near future to identify diseases. It is a good screening tool to direct them to next step. Help primary doctors to connect with tertiary doctors."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Dr Naik had a word of caution for those who rely heavily on AI.&nbsp;</p><p><br>"When you start sharing medical reports online, you are sharing personal data online which is not right. There is a breach of privacy. We need to keep a check on that as a lot of data breach occurs and leads to wrongful practices."&nbsp;</p>

At the third session of WION Health Pulse, a panel of prominent Indian medical experts—including Dr Sama Akber, Dr. Rohit Luthra, Dr. Nitish Naik, and Dr Arjun Dang—discussed the future of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics into medicine with WION’s Deeksha Teri.

The third session at WION Health Pulse was on AI & Digital Health Intergration. The panelist were well known Indian surgeons including Dr Sama Akber, the Director, Oxymed Hospital, Dr Rohit Luthra, Robotic Orthopaedic Surgeon & Director of Arcus Hospital, Dr Nitish Naik, Senior Cardiologist and Professor, Department of Cardiology, AIIMS and Dr Arjun Dang , Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Partner at Dr Dangs Lab LLP. The surgeons spoke to WION Deeksha Teri about integration AI in medical practices and what's the future. Dr Naik was firm that AI and Robotics would not replace the medical practioners but help in aiding them to improve their work. "Robotics and AI will be integrated into medical practice and see us delivering quality care to patients. It will create digital twins. It will help in surgical procedure.Not replace the doctors. Dr Akbar stated that AI will help in accessing remote areas of India which lack specialists. Citing interiors of South India, where a health centres in villages have a single doctors, Akbar said, AI will help doctors in identifying the diseases accurately. "Low tech and easy accessibility. AI should be used in near future to identify diseases. It is a good screening tool to direct them to next step. Help primary doctors to connect with tertiary doctors." Dr Naik had a word of caution for those who rely heavily on AI. "When you start sharing medical reports online, you are sharing personal data online which is not right. There is a breach of privacy. We need to keep a check on that as a lot of data breach occurs and leads to wrongful practices."

<p>At the third session of WION Health Pulse, a panel of prominent Indian medical experts—including Dr Sama Akber, Dr. Rohit Luthra, Dr. Nitish Naik, and Dr Arjun Dang—discussed the future of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics into medicine with WION’s Deeksha Teri.</p>

WION Health Pulse: Top Indian doctors outline the future of AI and digital health integration

<p>Artificial Intelligence has rapidly evolved and is now part of everyday life. With the rise of platforms like ChatGPT, it has become one of the most talked-about innovations across industries, including healthcare. As its capabilities continue to expand, one question that has emerged in healthcare is whether AI can replace doctors.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>At WION Health Pulse submit, the third session explored the growing role of AI &amp; digital integration, Dr Sama Akber, Director, Oxymed Hospital, Dr Rohit Luthra, Robotic Orthopaedic Surgeon &amp; Director, Arcus Hospital, Dr Nitish Naik, Senior Cardiologist and Professor, Department of Cardiology, AIIMS, Dr. Arjun Dang, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Partner at Dr. Dangs Lab LLP took the stage to share their views.</p><h3>Can AI replace doctors?</h3><p>Answering the question, “Can AI replace doctors?” &nbsp;Dr. Nitish Naik emphasised that AI is a powerful tool but cannot function autonomously in healthcare. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read</strong>: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/wion-health-pulse-india-has-a-lot-of-advantages-in-healthcare-dr-carlota-alonso-1781677060633">WION Health Pulse: 'India has a lot of advantages in healthcare': Dr. Carlota Alonso</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>‘’AI will not be completely autonomous. AI will be completely autonomous, and a robot, will be able to completely supplant a surgeon, and the surgeon will not be there. That would be fictitious because, you know, many things need a human intervention. Although AI, robots can certainly help assist performing tasks. But, we have certainly not reached the state where they can become completely autonomous and completely perform surgery without any human intervention.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"But we should realise that AI is a tool that has to be employed on a correct basis because there are umpteen examples where AI can cause hallucinations. AI can fictitiously bring out diagnoses and suggestions that are completely incorrect," he said.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Shocking the audience, Naik revealed how AI created a disease that never existed. ‘’In the past, there was a case when AI created a new disease which never existed.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>‘’Somebody from one of the universities abroad deliberately planted a fake article into a scientific journal. It was a deliberate attempt. It was a disease called, I wonder if you know about it, it's quite famous amongst our community, a disease called 'Bixonimania'. The name itself is incredulous; there is no such disease whatsoever. An article was deliberately planted in the scientific press claiming that there was such a disease. Its symptoms were described and various details were written about it. So, just one article,'' he shared.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/wion-health-pulse-brain-economy-explained-how-1-in-mental-health-can-return-11-dr-rajinder-k-dhamija-explains-1781680718333">WION Health Pulse: What is Brain economy? How $1 invested in mental health can return $11; Dr Rajinder K. Dhamija explains</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>‘’It took only two years for AI to generate a whole lot of literature behind it. In fact, once AI recognised this as a condition, it autonomously created information such as the disease prevalence, the symptoms, how it should be recognised, and how it should be treated. If you Google it now, you'll read about it. So, you cannot completely depend on AI because AI draws information from a whole lot of sources. Remember that health information, if it is to be used for generating any sort of background knowledge, has to come from medical journals. But if AI takes information from social media or the lay press, then its interpretations and whatever discussions it forms around that information may be completely incorrect."</p>

Artificial Intelligence is transforming healthcare, but experts say it cannot replace doctors. At the WION Health Pulse Summit during a session on AI & Digital Integration, here's what doctor has shared about AI integration. 

Artificial Intelligence has rapidly evolved and is now part of everyday life. With the rise of platforms like ChatGPT, it has become one of the most talked-about innovations across industries, including healthcare. As its capabilities continue to expand, one question that has emerged in healthcare is whether AI can replace doctors. At WION Health Pulse submit, the third session explored the growing role of AI & digital integration, Dr Sama Akber, Director, Oxymed Hospital, Dr Rohit Luthra, Robotic Orthopaedic Surgeon & Director, Arcus Hospital, Dr Nitish Naik, Senior Cardiologist and Professor, Department of Cardiology, AIIMS, Dr. Arjun Dang, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Partner at Dr. Dangs Lab LLP took the stage to share their views. Can AI replace doctors? Answering the question, “Can AI replace doctors?” Dr. Nitish Naik emphasised that AI is a powerful tool but cannot function autonomously in healthcare. Also read: WION Health Pulse: 'India has a lot of advantages in healthcare': Dr. Carlota Alonso ‘’AI will not be completely autonomous. AI will be completely autonomous, and a robot, will be able to completely supplant a surgeon, and the surgeon will not be there. That would be fictitious because, you know, many things need a human intervention. Although AI, robots can certainly help assist performing tasks. But, we have certainly not reached the state where they can become completely autonomous and completely perform surgery without any human intervention. "But we should realise that AI is a tool that has to be employed on a correct basis because there are umpteen examples where AI can cause hallucinations. AI can fictitiously bring out diagnoses and suggestions that are completely incorrect," he said. Shocking the audience, Naik revealed how AI created a disease that never existed. ‘’In the past, there was a case when AI created a new disease which never existed. ‘’Somebody from one of the universities abroad deliberately planted a fake article into a scientific journal. It was a deliberate attempt. It was a disease called, I wonder if you know about it, it's quite famous amongst our community, a disease called 'Bixonimania'. The name itself is incredulous; there is no such disease whatsoever. An article was deliberately planted in the scientific press claiming that there was such a disease. Its symptoms were described and various details were written about it. So, just one article,'' he shared. Also read: WION Health Pulse: What is Brain economy? How $1 invested in mental health can return $11; Dr Rajinder K. Dhamija explains ‘’It took only two years for AI to generate a whole lot of literature behind it. In fact, once AI recognised this as a condition, it autonomously created information such as the disease prevalence, the symptoms, how it should be recognised, and how it should be treated. If you Google it now, you'll read about it. So, you cannot completely depend on AI because AI draws information from a whole lot of sources. Remember that health information, if it is to be used for generating any sort of background knowledge, has to come from medical journals. But if AI takes information from social media or the lay press, then its interpretations and whatever discussions it forms around that information may be completely incorrect."

<p>Artificial Intelligence is transforming healthcare, but experts say it cannot replace doctors. At the WION Health Pulse Summit during a session on AI &amp; Digital Integration, here's what doctor has shared about AI integration.&nbsp;</p>

WION Health Pulse | Can AI replace doctors? Dr. Nitish Naik reveals how AI invented a disease that never existed

<p>Dr Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of India, who leads the Ministry of Science &amp; Technology and the Ministry of Earth Sciences, said that India is currently hailed as a global leader in preventive healthcare. "We were the first to cme out witj the DNA vaccine in COVID, then also offer it to 30 other countries. Now we have HPV vaccine, which is known to be effective in the cervical, more so common in female," Singh told WION at the Health Pulse on Wednesday (June 17).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He also said that India has made a niche for itself in producing devices and heart valves that are cost-effective without compromising on quality. "We are also attracting medical tourism from outside. So that's a huge change in nature," Singh added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-health-pulse-president-of-guyana-irfaan-ali-joins-rhythm-of-the-new-health-order-1781678524516">WION Health Pulse: President of Guyana, Irfaan Ali joins rhythm of the new health order</a></p>

<p>"Anything available, in any part of the world, is also available over here [India]. And that too at much cost effective price. Dr Singh said that this has resulted in making India the most preferred healthcare destination across the world.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/wion-health-pulse-the-world-s-healthcare-confluence-charting-the-future-of-health-innovation-1781674366893">WION Health Pulse: Charting the future of health innovation</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Hemophilia, we are the first to have come out with a successful gene driven trial, genetic remedy for hemophilia, which is a clotting disorder and why I am saying that this room will find it interesting is that you go back to the history of medicine," Dr Singh said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"It is said that the first ever case of hemophilia, the deficiency of clotting factory eight were discovered in one of the cousins of Queen Victoria. So, not only that we have qualified in disease, we have been eating from India, namely the tropicl diseases in disease. We are now also in a position to find solutions about diseases or solutions for diseases which originated from the West," Singh added. &nbsp;</p>

India is emerging as a global leader in medical tourism and preventive healthcare, recognised for its cost-effective medical devices and pioneering vaccines like the COVID-19 DNA vaccine and HPV vaccine.

Dr Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of India, who leads the Ministry of Science & Technology and the Ministry of Earth Sciences, said that India is currently hailed as a global leader in preventive healthcare. "We were the first to cme out witj the DNA vaccine in COVID, then also offer it to 30 other countries. Now we have HPV vaccine, which is known to be effective in the cervical, more so common in female," Singh told WION at the Health Pulse on Wednesday (June 17). He also said that India has made a niche for itself in producing devices and heart valves that are cost-effective without compromising on quality. "We are also attracting medical tourism from outside. So that's a huge change in nature," Singh added. Also read: WION Health Pulse: President of Guyana, Irfaan Ali joins rhythm of the new health order

<p>India is emerging as a global leader in medical tourism and preventive healthcare, recognised for its cost-effective medical devices and pioneering vaccines like the COVID-19 DNA vaccine and HPV vaccine.</p>

WION Health Pulse: India emerging as preferred healthcare destination across the world, says Dr Jitendra Singh

<p>Guyanese President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Wednesday (Jun 17), while speaking at the WION Health Pulse Summit, painted a picture of a healthcare system undergoing a dramatic transformation. Addressing healthcare professionals, researchers and policymakers, Ali said the world is witnessing a historic moment where technology and medicine are converging to reshape healthcare delivery. He also thanked India for its support “during one of the darkest periods of recent history, the COVID-19 pandemic”.</p><h2><strong>13,905 km: The surgery that captured global attention</strong></h2><p>Ali began by highlighting a milestone that recently placed Guyana in the global spotlight.</p><p>He referred to the world's longest-distance cardiac telesurgery, during which renowned Indian cardiac surgeon Dr Subir Srivastava successfully performed a coronary artery bypass graft procedure from Guyana on a patient located thousands of miles away in India.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/wion-health-pulse-brain-economy-explained-how-1-in-mental-health-can-return-11-dr-rajinder-k-dhamija-explains-1781680718333"><strong>WION Health Pulse: What is Brain economy? How $1 invested in mental health can return $11; Dr Rajinder K. Dhamija explains</strong></a></p><p>The achievement, he said, demonstrated how technology is erasing geographical barriers in healthcare. "This sort of removal procedure used to be the stuff of science fiction," Ali said, describing the operation as a glimpse into the future where expertise can cross borders instantly and patients can access specialised care regardless of location.</p><p>"It was a demonstration that medicine is entering a new era, an era where expertise can travel faster than airplanes, where knowledge can move instantaneously across borders, and where the best care need not be limited by physical location."</p><h2><strong>Building healthcare from the ground up</strong></h2><p>The President said Guyana is undertaking what he described as the "most ambitious healthcare transformation" in the country's history.</p><p>At the foundation of that effort is a major expansion of healthcare infrastructure.</p><p>According to Ali, Guyana is investing heavily in primary and secondary healthcare to ensure citizens can access essential services closer to home. The government has already built 25 new health centres and health posts while expanding maternal and child healthcare services and increasing the availability of healthcare professionals across the country. The broader goal, he said, is to make healthcare accessible to every citizen.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Guyana President Irfaan Ali (<a href="https://x.com/presidentaligy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@presidentaligy</a>) highlights healthcare transformation at WION Health Pulse<br><br>In a message to the <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WIONHealthPulse?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONHealthPulse</a> summit, Irfaan Ali highlighted the transformative role of technology in healthcare, citing the world&#39;s longest-distance cardiac… <a href="https://t.co/Q6xaJEpX2x">pic.twitter.com/Q6xaJEpX2x</a></p>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2067139007503610312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>Expanding specialised medical care</strong></h2><p>Beyond basic healthcare services, Guyana is also investing in advanced medical treatment.</p><p>Ali said the country is strengthening services in cardiology, oncology, ophthalmology, stroke rehabilitation, maternal healthcare and other specialised fields. A dedicated mother and child hospital is also under construction.</p><p>"The second level of transformation involves catapulting our tertiary health care system into the future," he said, adding that the nation was investing heavily in highly specialized medical services, including advanced gynecology and maternal health care, cardiology and stroke rehabilitation, oncology and cancer treatment, ophthalmology and cataract surgery, and a wide range of other specialized services.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/wion-health-pulse-mental-health-is-often-ignored-dr-jitendra-nagpal-1781680364857"><strong>WION Health Pulse: ' Mental health is often ignored': Dr Jitendra Nagpal</strong></a></p><h2><strong>A digital healthcare ecosystem</strong></h2><p>Finally the nation is undergoing a "digital transformation," which, he noted "involves building a digitally integrated health care ecosystem".</p><p>The aim, he said, is to create a system where patients no longer need to travel abroad for high-quality treatment.</p><p>Artificial intelligence is expected to play a growing role as well. Ali said that, "AI-assisted interpretation of medical images is already under exploration". These, he noted would help improve clinical decision-making and patient outcomes.</p><h2><strong>Investing in people: Level 4, human capital development</strong></h2><p>Ali stressed that technology and infrastructure alone cannot transform healthcare. He said Guyana is significantly expanding training programmes for doctors, nurses, technicians and specialists to ensure that the country's workforce grows alongside its healthcare capabilities.</p><p>"Guyana also recognizes that a system is only as strong as its people," he said.</p><h2><strong>Level 5, research and innovation</strong></h2><p>Looking ahead, Ali unveiled plans for what could become one of the Caribbean's most ambitious healthcare projects: a national life sciences park. He said that the next four years would "witness one of the most transformational developments in Caribbean health care".</p><p>The proposed hub will include biobanks, a tropical medicine institute, centres for drug and diagnostic development, vaccine manufacturing facilities, biotechnology research centres and advanced data analytics capabilities.</p><p>"It will help position Guyana as an emerging regional leader in health care and life sciences," he said.</p><h2><strong>India identified as a key partner</strong></h2><p>Throughout his address, Ali repeatedly highlighted India's role in Guyana's healthcare ambitions. He praised India's contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic and described the country as a global leader in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, digital healthcare and medical education.</p><p>"Guyana values the friendship and partnership with India deeply. During one of the darkest periods of recent history, the COVID-19 pandemic, which many countries struggled to secure vaccines, India stood with Guyana. India extended support when it mattered most."</p><p>Guyana, he said, is seeking deeper collaboration with Indian hospitals, universities, healthcare companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, telemedicine providers and investors. "We welcome partnerships in research. We welcome partnerships in training. We welcome partnerships in technology. We welcome partnerships in investment," Ali said.</p><p>Inviting healthcare stakeholders to explore opportunities in Guyana, the President said the country's rapidly evolving healthcare sector presents significant opportunities for international cooperation.</p><p>"The future of healthcare will not be built by one country acting alone," he said. "It will be built through partnerships."<br>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

At the WION Health Pulse Summit, Guyanese President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali praised India for supporting Guyana during the COVID-19 pandemic and identified New Delhi as a critical partner in the country's healthcare transformation.

Guyanese President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Wednesday (Jun 17), while speaking at the WION Health Pulse Summit, painted a picture of a healthcare system undergoing a dramatic transformation. Addressing healthcare professionals, researchers and policymakers, Ali said the world is witnessing a historic moment where technology and medicine are converging to reshape healthcare delivery. He also thanked India for its support “during one of the darkest periods of recent history, the COVID-19 pandemic”. 13,905 km: The surgery that captured global attention Ali began by highlighting a milestone that recently placed Guyana in the global spotlight. He referred to the world's longest-distance cardiac telesurgery, during which renowned Indian cardiac surgeon Dr Subir Srivastava successfully performed a coronary artery bypass graft procedure from Guyana on a patient located thousands of miles away in India. Also read | WION Health Pulse: What is Brain economy? How $1 invested in mental health can return $11; Dr Rajinder K. Dhamija explains The achievement, he said, demonstrated how technology is erasing geographical barriers in healthcare. "This sort of removal procedure used to be the stuff of science fiction," Ali said, describing the operation as a glimpse into the future where expertise can cross borders instantly and patients can access specialised care regardless of location. "It was a demonstration that medicine is entering a new era, an era where expertise can travel faster than airplanes, where knowledge can move instantaneously across borders, and where the best care need not be limited by physical location." Building healthcare from the ground up The President said Guyana is undertaking what he described as the "most ambitious healthcare transformation" in the country's history. At the foundation of that effort is a major expansion of healthcare infrastructure. According to Ali, Guyana is investing heavily in primary and secondary healthcare to ensure citizens can access essential services closer to home. The government has already built 25 new health centres and health posts while expanding maternal and child healthcare services and increasing the availability of healthcare professionals across the country. The broader goal, he said, is to make healthcare accessible to every citizen.

<p>At the WION Health Pulse Summit, Guyanese President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali praised India for supporting Guyana during the COVID-19 pandemic and identified New Delhi as a critical partner in the country's healthcare transformation.</p>

'During one of the darkest periods in recent history India stood with Guyana': President Irfaan Ali at WION Health Pulse

<p><br>Mental health has emerged as one of the most pressing yet under-recognised public health challenges of our time. Addressing this growing concern, experts came together at the WION Health Summit during session 2: &nbsp;Mental Health - The Invisible Pandemic to discuss the rising burden of mental health disorders and the urgent need for awareness, intervention and support systems.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>To discuss Mental Health, &nbsp;Dr Rajinder K. Dhamija, Director and Professor of Neurology at the Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS), explains the new concept of brain economy, brain skill and brain capital.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read</strong>: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/wion-health-pulse-mental-health-is-often-ignored-dr-jitendra-nagpal-1781680364857">WION Health Pulse: 'Mental health is often ignored in Indian household' says Dr Jitendra Nagpal</a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WIONHealthSummit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONHealthSummit</a> | &quot;In India, health is not a right, but mental health is,&quot; says Dr Rajinder K. Dhamija (<a href="https://x.com/DrRKDhamija?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrRKDhamija</a>), Professor of Neurology and Director, Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS) <a href="https://t.co/NZ4SmTfa59">pic.twitter.com/NZ4SmTfa59</a></p>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2067145644113027091?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>‘’There is a concept called Brain economy. If your population is mentally healthy, your GDP will increase exponentially. It is called the Brain economy. If one dollar is invested in one's mental health has a return of $11 in the productivity. So this is something that is happening globally.''<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Concluding the session, Dr. Dhamija shared the highlights of the discussion and said, "In India, health is not a right, but mental health is."</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Drawing attention to the scale of the problem, Dr Dhamija said that IHBAS, one of the country's largest mental health institutions, sees more than 3,000 patients daily. He stressed that stigma and low mental health literacy remain major barriers to treatment.</p><p><br>"People need to understand that there is a need for mental health intervention, but there is less demand for it. So we have to create that demand. We all understand there is a problem, but how many people come forward to seek professional help? So, that is where we are lagging behind, and where health literacy is, too. Where we can work on &nbsp;and conclave like this are very important for people to come forward and seek professional help.‘’ he said.&nbsp;</p>

At the WION Health Summit, experts discussed mental health in session 2 titled Mental Health: The Invisible Pandemic, highlighting it as a major yet often overlooked public health challenge.

Mental health has emerged as one of the most pressing yet under-recognised public health challenges of our time. Addressing this growing concern, experts came together at the WION Health Summit during session 2: Mental Health - The Invisible Pandemic to discuss the rising burden of mental health disorders and the urgent need for awareness, intervention and support systems. To discuss Mental Health, Dr Rajinder K. Dhamija, Director and Professor of Neurology at the Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS), explains the new concept of brain economy, brain skill and brain capital. Also read: WION Health Pulse: 'Mental health is often ignored in Indian household' says Dr Jitendra Nagpal

<p>At the WION Health Summit, experts discussed mental health in session 2 titled Mental Health: The Invisible Pandemic, highlighting it as a major yet often overlooked public health challenge.</p>

WION Health Pulse: What is brain economy? How $1 invested in mental health can return $11; Dr Rajinder K. Dhamija explains

<p>As urban population in India increasingly becomes aspiration, there is a rise in mental health issues. Score of Indian households opt to not have children, just to pursue highfliying corporate jobs but many complain of loneliness and depression in later years silently.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In the second session of WION Health Pulse, Dr. Rajinder K. Dhamija, Director and Professor of Neurology at the Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS) and Dr. Jitendra Nagpal, Senior Consultant Psychiatrist and In Charge of the Institute of Mental Health &amp; Life Skills Promotion at Moolchand Medcity addressed the growing rate of mental health issues in urban India and the need to destigmatize conversation on mental health and reach out when help is needed.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>When Dr Nagpal was asked how the urban population is striving to achieve more and yet finding it difficult to strike a balance in life and mental well being, the expert stated that introspection is needed.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“More and more the young population is asking us about the the difference between happiness and success? Aspiration will remain. But for what? Financial backup is important. But while we are skyrocketing into achievement-oriented life, the fallout has been simultaneously about the pandemic of loneliness,” said Dr Nagpal.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The fallout is that the rise in non-communicable disorders in urban India is also the highest,” rued the expert.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The pyschaitrist said that in India, families form the backbone for any individual. However, while we teach and motivate the young generation to achieve high goals, Dr Nagpal insisted that there is a need for introspection.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Are we preparing the future for just good jobs, not for life? We need to have answers to these questions.”&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Both Dr Dhamija and Dr Nagpal revealed that the government is taking active role in promoting more health centres that now also deal with mental health.&nbsp;</p>

How to strike a balance between aspiration and mental well-being. During the second session of WION Health Pulse, which focused on Mental Health, panellist Dr Jitendra Nagpal stated that there is a need for introspection. 

As urban population in India increasingly becomes aspiration, there is a rise in mental health issues. Score of Indian households opt to not have children, just to pursue highfliying corporate jobs but many complain of loneliness and depression in later years silently. In the second session of WION Health Pulse, Dr. Rajinder K. Dhamija, Director and Professor of Neurology at the Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS) and Dr. Jitendra Nagpal, Senior Consultant Psychiatrist and In Charge of the Institute of Mental Health & Life Skills Promotion at Moolchand Medcity addressed the growing rate of mental health issues in urban India and the need to destigmatize conversation on mental health and reach out when help is needed. When Dr Nagpal was asked how the urban population is striving to achieve more and yet finding it difficult to strike a balance in life and mental well being, the expert stated that introspection is needed. “More and more the young population is asking us about the the difference between happiness and success? Aspiration will remain. But for what? Financial backup is important. But while we are skyrocketing into achievement-oriented life, the fallout has been simultaneously about the pandemic of loneliness,” said Dr Nagpal. “The fallout is that the rise in non-communicable disorders in urban India is also the highest,” rued the expert. The pyschaitrist said that in India, families form the backbone for any individual. However, while we teach and motivate the young generation to achieve high goals, Dr Nagpal insisted that there is a need for introspection. “Are we preparing the future for just good jobs, not for life? We need to have answers to these questions.” Both Dr Dhamija and Dr Nagpal revealed that the government is taking active role in promoting more health centres that now also deal with mental health.

<p>How to strike a balance between aspiration and mental well being. During the second session of WION Health Pulse, which focused on Mental Health, panellist Dr Jitendra Nagpal stated that there is need for introspection.&nbsp;</p>

WION Health Pulse: Non-communicable disorders in urban India are on the rise, says Dr Jitendra Nagpal