Superbugs are a big health hazard resulting in 4.95 million deaths on average per year. Now, a superbug named Candida Auris has spread to 23 U.S. states. It has come under lens as it can hide in a person's hair follicles for months without any symptoms.

Superbug That Can Hide in Your Hair Spreads to 23 U.S. States | GRAVITAS 

India achieved a historic healthcare milestone in 2025 by performing 20,138 organ transplants, crossing the 20,000 threshold in a single year for the first time. This marks a fourfold increase since 2013 and positions India third globally in total transplants while retaining the top spot worldwide for living donor procedures.

India's major health milestone: 20,000 transplants in 2025

Could Viagra, the widely used drug for erectile dysfunction, become part of the fight against cancer?

A new study suggests that sildenafil, commonly known by its brand name Viagra, may help slow the spread of cancer by limiting the ability of cancer cells to use cholesterol—an essential component that helps them migrate and form new tumors.

Researchers say the drug's anti-metastatic effects could become even stronger when combined with statins, which reduce cholesterol production. The findings, published in the journal Cancer Research, also indicate that patients taking sildenafil showed improved survival rates.

While the research is promising, scientists emphasize that more clinical studies are needed before Viagra can be recommended as a cancer treatment.

Viagra May Help Fight Cancer Spread? Scientists Discover Promising New Use for Sildenafil

Mumbai could face disruptions in medicine supplies as chemists across India prepare for a massive nationwide strike against e-pharma companies. Over 1.2 million chemists are reportedly expected to participate, alleging unfair pricing and aggressive business practices by online pharmacy platforms. While the FDA has assured the public that emergency medicines will remain available, special control rooms have also been set up across Mumbai to monitor the situation and prevent panic.


Medicine Supply Crisis In Mumbai? Chemists Threaten Massive Nationwide Strike 

India has achieved a historic breakthrough in pharmaceutical science! Union Science & Technology Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced that India has developed its first indigenously discovered antibiotic — Nafithromycin. This landmark achievement strengthens the country's biotech and pharmaceutical self-reliance, placing India among the few nations capable of antibiotic discovery at home.
Find out how Nafithromycin works, who developed it, and why this moment is so significant for India's global health leadership.

India Develops First Indigenous Antibiotic: Nafithromycin Breakthrough

3D technology is helping people in Ghana get medical help without having to travel long distances

3D telemedicine offers help to sick Ghanaians in remotely

Novo Nordisk's Attempt to Overtake Rival Eli Lilly in the Booming Obesity Medicine Market Fails. This Led to the Company's Shares Falling by a Record on Friday.

Novo Nordisk's New Weight Drug Disappoints

Novo Nordisk's Attempt to Overtake Rival Eli Lilly in the Booming Obesity Medicine Market Fails.



This Led to the Company's Shares Falling by a Record on Friday.



"The Indian Angel" Indian National Nagender Parashar who has been staying In Ukraine for 3 decades has been providing prosthetics to Ukrainian Soldiers. WION's Sidhant Sibal brings you an exclusive conversation with prosthetics doctor Nagender Parashar.

Doctor who made a human impact: Dr Nagender Parashar makes prosthetics for injured in war

<p>Cancer is a leading cause of&nbsp;death&nbsp;in the US, and now a study has estimated that&nbsp; Americans are spending more than $40 billion for screenings.</p>

<p>The modelling study by the American College of Physicians examined the screening data for five common types of cancer - breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, and prostate - for the year 2021 to reach their conclusion.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The details, they hope, would help policy change, including equal access to cancer screenings and treatment, the college said in a release.</p>

<h2><strong>How the study was done</strong></h2>

<p>For the study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, the National Institutes of Health researchers used healthcare survey and cost resources data to estimate the annual cost of initial cancer screening. This does not include follow-up costs.</p>

<p>The amount was estimated by multiplying the number of those screened for the five types of cancers and their costs by typical insurance cover per screen in 2021 dollars, the college said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-new-study-highlights-impact-of-long-covid-747226">New study highlights impact of long COVID</a></strong></p>

<p>Their estimate of screening costs was $43 billion per year.</p>

<p>Out of this, screening for colorectal cancer stood the highest cost, at 64%.</p>

<p>"About 88.3% of costs were attributable to private insurance, 8.5% to Medicare, and 3.2% to Medicaid and other programmes," said a release from the college.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cancer screenings can cut mortality rates as well as reduce the overall cost of treatment if detection is done at the early stages.</p>

<p>"Cancer screenings increase detection of earlier stage disease, which may result in decreased treatment costs, decreased financial hardship, and improved quality of life," said the release.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/study-busy-braggers-tend-to-be-less-likeable-among-peers-726711">Study: 'Busy Braggers' tend to be less likeable among peers</a></strong></p>

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<p>Even the $43bn estimate may be less than the actual cost, as patients usually go for further testing.&nbsp;Screening of ineligble patients and overdiagnosis, and overtreatment are also not factored in, the college said in an accompanying editorial on the study.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Data suggests that screening of ineligible patients is particularly common, especially among elderly people," it noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Cancer is a leading cause of death in the US, and now a study has estimated that Americans are spending more than $40 billion for screenings. The modelling study by the American College of Physicians examined the screening data for five common types of cancer - breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, and prostate - for the year 2021 to reach their conclusion.

Cancer is a leading cause of death in the US, and now a study has estimated that Americans are spending more than $40 billion for screenings. The modelling study by the American College of Physicians examined the screening data for five common types of cancer - breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, and prostate - for the year 2021 to reach their conclusion. The details, they hope, would help policy change, including equal access to cancer screenings and treatment, the college said in a release. How the study was done For the study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, the National Institutes of Health researchers used healthcare survey and cost resources data to estimate the annual cost of initial cancer screening. This does not include follow-up costs. The amount was estimated by multiplying the number of those screened for the five types of cancers and their costs by typical insurance cover per screen in 2021 dollars, the college said. Also read: New study highlights impact of long COVID Their estimate of screening costs was $43 billion per year. Out of this, screening for colorectal cancer stood the highest cost, at 64%. "About 88.3% of costs were attributable to private insurance, 8.5% to Medicare, and 3.2% to Medicaid and other programmes," said a release from the college. Cancer screenings can cut mortality rates as well as reduce the overall cost of treatment if detection is done at the early stages. "Cancer screenings increase detection of earlier stage disease, which may result in decreased treatment costs, decreased financial hardship, and improved quality of life," said the release. Also watch: Study: 'Busy Braggers' tend to be less likeable among peers Even the $43bn estimate may be less than the actual cost, as patients usually go for further testing. Screening of ineligble patients and overdiagnosis, and overtreatment are also not factored in, the college said in an accompanying editorial on the study. "Data suggests that screening of ineligible patients is particularly common, especially among elderly people," it noted. (With inputs from agencies)

Cancer screening: Americans spend a whopping $43 billion every year, says study 

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<p>A hospital in China has made history by performing a surgery where the surgeon was located 5,000 km away from the patient. Using cutting-edge technology and extensive research, a team of doctors enabled one of their colleagues in Shanghai to remotely control a machine that removed a lung tumour in just an hour. A video of this groundbreaking procedure has gone viral on social media.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A surgeon in China successfully removed a lung tumor from a patient while being 5000 km away. The doctor operated the machine remotely from his office in Shanghai, while the patient was in Kashgar, located on the opposite side of the country. The entire operation was completed in… <a href="https://t.co/8VQrpnvtS0">pic.twitter.com/8VQrpnvtS0</a></p>
— Naresh Nambisan | നരേഷ് (@nareshbahrain) <a href="https://twitter.com/nareshbahrain/status/1819286125883674974?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>“A surgeon in China successfully removed a lung tumour from a patient while being 5000 km away. The doctor operated the machine remotely from his office in Shanghai, while the patient was in Kashgar, located on the opposite side of the country. The entire operation was completed in an hour,” wrote stock market trader and expert, Naresh Nambisan, while sharing the video on X.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: A new undergraduate marriage program in China</strong></p>

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<p>According to a statement by the Shanghai municipality's information office, doctors from Shanghai Chest Hospital performed this medical feat after "detailed clinical research" and working with "domestically-made surgical robots."</p>

<p>Dr Luo Qingquan, the surgeon leading the operation, performed it with the help of a few assistants.</p>

<p>"The success of this surgery is a milestone to show the clinical capability of a domestically-made surgical robot, which can bring more benefit to patients, especially those in remote and rural regions," Luo said.</p>

<p>"Remote Robotic minimal access surgery is the future trend. And it is already here. Medical science has progressed so much, yet we do not know the multitude of things in the human body. That is the way medical science progresses, gradually," a user commented under the post.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/antarctic-temperatures-rise-10c-above-average-experts-are-calling-it-a-near-record-heatwave-746539">Antarctic temperatures rise 10C above average, experts are calling it a near-record heatwave</a></strong></p>

<p>"Performing this kind of remote robotic surgery a 'medical miracle'! Robotic surgery with the surgeon around is being done well now," wrote another.</p>

<p>"I wonder if this is going to be possible in robotic spine surgery as we still need the master to control the tool to insert implants into spinal bones. Robotic spine surgery has a long way to go before this possibility to be a reality. I wish I can see this happen in my professional career," commented&nbsp;a third.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A hospital in China has made history by performing a surgery where the surgeon was located 5,000 km away from the patient. Using cutting-edge technology and extensive research, a team of doctors enabled one of their colleagues in Shanghai to remotely control a machine that removed a lung tumour in just an hour.

A hospital in China has made history by performing a surgery where the surgeon was located 5,000 km away from the patient. Using cutting-edge technology and extensive research, a team of doctors enabled one of their colleagues in Shanghai to remotely control a machine that removed a lung tumour in just an hour. A video of this groundbreaking procedure has gone viral on social media. A surgeon in China successfully removed a lung tumor from a patient while being 5000 km away. The doctor operated the machine remotely from his office in Shanghai, while the patient was in Kashgar, located on the opposite side of the country. The entire operation was completed in… pic.twitter.com/8VQrpnvtS0 — Naresh Nambisan | നരേഷ് (@nareshbahrain) August 2, 2024 × “A surgeon in China successfully removed a lung tumour from a patient while being 5000 km away. The doctor operated the machine remotely from his office in Shanghai, while the patient was in Kashgar, located on the opposite side of the country. The entire operation was completed in an hour,” wrote stock market trader and expert, Naresh Nambisan, while sharing the video on X. Watch | Gravitas: A new undergraduate marriage program in China × According to a statement by the Shanghai municipality's information office, doctors from Shanghai Chest Hospital performed this medical feat after "detailed clinical research" and working with "domestically-made surgical robots." Dr Luo Qingquan, the surgeon leading the operation, performed it with the help of a few assistants. "The success of this surgery is a milestone to show the clinical capability of a domestically-made surgical robot, which can bring more benefit to patients, especially those in remote and rural regions," Luo said. "Remote Robotic minimal access surgery is the future trend. And it is already here. Medical science has progressed so much, yet we do not know the multitude of things in the human body. That is the way medical science progresses, gradually," a user commented under the post. Also read: Antarctic temperatures rise 10C above average, experts are calling it a near-record heatwave "Performing this kind of remote robotic surgery a 'medical miracle'! Robotic surgery with the surgeon around is being done well now," wrote another. "I wonder if this is going to be possible in robotic spine surgery as we still need the master to control the tool to insert implants into spinal bones. Robotic spine surgery has a long way to go before this possibility to be a reality. I wish I can see this happen in my professional career," commented a third. (With inputs from agencies)

China: Surgeon successfully removes lung tumor remotely from 5,000 km away | Watch

<p>Tess in Houston Zoo, Texas is doing fine after receiving the first-ever vaccine for herpesvirus affecting Asian elephants. The 40-year-old grandmother became the first Asian elephant to receive the vaccine for the deadly virus that has already killed several pachyderms and their cubs in zoos across the world, as well as in the wild.<br />
<br />
Elephant herpes virus is a deadly disease affecting the pachyderms in India, Nepal and Thailand, besides in several zoos.</p>

<p>Animal care experts and veterinary staff at Houston Zoo will closely monitor Tess to learn how effective this vaccine is for elephants, the Houston Zoo said in a release after administering the injection on 18 June.</p>

<p>The mRNA vaccine was created by Baylor College of Medicine.&nbsp;It was developed by Dr Paul Ling at Baylor College of Medicine in collaboration with Houston Zoo's veterinarians and elephant care team.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Today, Tess, our 40-year-old Asian elephant has received the first-ever dose of an mRNA vaccine created by virologists at <a href="https://twitter.com/bcmhouston?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bcmhouston</a> to prevent the deadly elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV) 1A—a devastating viral disease in Asian elephants worldwide. (1/2) <a href="https://t.co/uvtqmLgWza">pic.twitter.com/uvtqmLgWza</a></p>
— Houston Zoo (@houstonzoo) <a href="https://twitter.com/houstonzoo/status/1803156974974148790?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><br />
"The vaccine’s effectiveness will be measured by evaluating antibody levels in her blood while monitoring for specific side effects or adverse reactions such as injection site swelling or allergic reaction," the Houston zoo statement said.<br />
<br />
Tess, mother to Tucker (19), Tupelo (13), Tilly (6), and Teddy (3) and grandmother to Winnie (3), is currently doing well post-vaccination, it added.</p>

<p>Trials, mainly on horses, had shown that the mRNA vaccine can induce antibodies against the virus with no adverse side effects.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The zoo intends to vaccinate more elephants in its herd and monitor them.</p>

<p>There are also plans to send the vaccine to elephants in other parts of the world both in captivity and in the wild.</p>

<p>A vaccine for African elephants is also on the anvil.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elephants-use-names-to-communicate-study-730737"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Elephants use names to communicate: Study</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2>What is elephant herpesvirus killing Asian elephants?</h2>

<p>Elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus or EEHV 1A is a deadly viral disease that is killing Asian elephants worldwide, both in captivity and in the wild.&nbsp;Asian elephants in some of the world's zoos have been dying because of herpesvirus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In July this year, two elephants died from the virus at Dublin zoo. In the recent past, baby elephants have died in zoos in Chester, Melbourne and Zurich of the virus, which has a high mortality rate of about 70%.</p>

<p>In 2022, a five-year-old elephant cow, Ruwan died in the Zurich zoo after succumbing to EEHV. She was the third to die there, the earlier casualties being a two-year-old bull Umesh and his eight-year-old sister Omysha.</p>

<p>The virus causes internal bleeding and organ failure, similar to the effects Ebola has on humans. It is particularly lethal for young Asian elephants.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-herpesvirus-experts-powerless-as-deadly-virus-stalks-zurich-zoo-kills-3-asian-elephants-501836"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;What is herpesvirus? Experts 'powerless' as deadly virus stalks Zurich zoo, kills 3 Asian elephants</strong></a></p>

<p>Most Asian elephants - both in the wild and in captivity - carry dormant herpesvirus. The virus, discovered in 1990 and named in 1999,&nbsp;is believed to spread through trunks of the animals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The virus is a major driver of Asian elephant deaths in captivity.<br />
<br />
Asian elephants are facing potential extinction, with only 50,000 of the species in the wild.</p>

<p>An effective vaccine is the only solution for the herpesvirus.</p>

<p>Till now, there was no such vaccine, and treatment was mainly anti-viral medication, which often proved to be inefficient.<br />
<br />
Tess could change all that, if the experiment is successful.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Tess in Houston Zoo, Texas is doing fine after receiving the first-ever vaccine for herpesvirus affecting Asian elephants. The 40-year-old grandmother became the first Asian elephant to receive the vaccine for the deadly virus that has already killed several pachyderms and their cubs in zoos across the world, as well as in the wild.

Tess in Houston Zoo, Texas is doing fine after receiving the first-ever vaccine for herpesvirus affecting Asian elephants. The 40-year-old grandmother became the first Asian elephant to receive the vaccine for the deadly virus that has already killed several pachyderms and their cubs in zoos across the world, as well as in the wild. Elephant herpes virus is a deadly disease affecting the pachyderms in India, Nepal and Thailand, besides in several zoos. Animal care experts and veterinary staff at Houston Zoo will closely monitor Tess to learn how effective this vaccine is for elephants, the Houston Zoo said in a release after administering the injection on 18 June. The mRNA vaccine was created by Baylor College of Medicine. It was developed by Dr Paul Ling at Baylor College of Medicine in collaboration with Houston Zoo's veterinarians and elephant care team. Today, Tess, our 40-year-old Asian elephant has received the first-ever dose of an mRNA vaccine created by virologists at @bcmhouston to prevent the deadly elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV) 1A—a devastating viral disease in Asian elephants worldwide. (1/2) pic.twitter.com/uvtqmLgWza — Houston Zoo (@houstonzoo) June 18, 2024 × "The vaccine’s effectiveness will be measured by evaluating antibody levels in her blood while monitoring for specific side effects or adverse reactions such as injection site swelling or allergic reaction," the Houston zoo statement said. Tess, mother to Tucker (19), Tupelo (13), Tilly (6), and Teddy (3) and grandmother to Winnie (3), is currently doing well post-vaccination, it added. Trials, mainly on horses, had shown that the mRNA vaccine can induce antibodies against the virus with no adverse side effects. The zoo intends to vaccinate more elephants in its herd and monitor them. There are also plans to send the vaccine to elephants in other parts of the world both in captivity and in the wild. A vaccine for African elephants is also on the anvil. Watch | Elephants use names to communicate: Study × What is elephant herpesvirus killing Asian elephants? Elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus or EEHV 1A is a deadly viral disease that is killing Asian elephants worldwide, both in captivity and in the wild. Asian elephants in some of the world's zoos have been dying because of herpesvirus. In July this year, two elephants died from the virus at Dublin zoo. In the recent past, baby elephants have died in zoos in Chester, Melbourne and Zurich of the virus, which has a high mortality rate of about 70%. In 2022, a five-year-old elephant cow, Ruwan died in the Zurich zoo after succumbing to EEHV. She was the third to die there, the earlier casualties being a two-year-old bull Umesh and his eight-year-old sister Omysha. The virus causes internal bleeding and organ failure, similar to the effects Ebola has on humans. It is particularly lethal for young Asian elephants. Also read | What is herpesvirus? Experts 'powerless' as deadly virus stalks Zurich zoo, kills 3 Asian elephants Most Asian elephants - both in the wild and in captivity - carry dormant herpesvirus. The virus, discovered in 1990 and named in 1999, is believed to spread through trunks of the animals. The virus is a major driver of Asian elephant deaths in captivity. Asian elephants are facing potential extinction, with only 50,000 of the species in the wild. An effective vaccine is the only solution for the herpesvirus. Till now, there was no such vaccine, and treatment was mainly anti-viral medication, which often proved to be inefficient. Tess could change all that, if the experiment is successful. (With inputs from agencies)

Asian elephant Tess got first vaccine for herpesvirus, and can pave way for saving her species

<p>A prehistoric wolf dating back to 44,000 years has undergone an autopsy. The mummified predator was found in 2021 about 40 metres below permafrost by the river Tirekhtyakh in East Russia. Scientists believe that this discovery will help us understand life during the ice age.</p>

<p>As reported by Live Science, this mummified adult wolf from the late Pleistocene epoch (between 2.6 million years and 11,700 years ago) is the first of its kind to have been discovered, according to the statement from the North-Eastern Federal University, where the ancient predator was examined.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alarming-antarctic-ice-melt-tipping-point-found-raises-sea-level-rise-fears-735420">Alarming Antarctic ice melt tipping point found, raises fears of sea level rise</a></strong></p>

<p>The cold and dry conditions in permafrost allow the animals to be mummified and preserved for centuries. The scientists took samples of the internal organs and gastrointestinal tract from the carcass of the age-old wolf to study its health and diet.</p>

<p>"His stomach has been preserved in an isolated form, there are no contaminants, so the task is not trivial," Albert Protopopov head of the department for the study of mammoth fauna of the Academy of Sciences of Yakutia, said in a statement according to Live Science. "We hope to obtain a snapshot of the biota of the ancient Pleistocene."</p>

<p>The wolf was identified as an adult male based on its tooth analysis and was an active and large predator. The team of researchers will be able to detect his diet, as well as the diets of animals it had consumed and remained in its stomach.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/painted-lady-butterfly-defy-the-odds-first-evidence-shows-it-crossed-an-ocean-735366">Painted lady butterflies defy the odds, first evidence shows it crossed an ocean</a></strong></p>

<p>A living bacteria&nbsp;can survive in fossils for thousands of years. The scientists believe examining the microorganisms that might be still living inside the wolf in a dormant and frozen state may benefit modern-day biotechnology and medicine.</p>

<p>This project will help discover the wildlife and other ancient species that existed during the Pleistocene. The team will also study another ancient wolf found in 2023 in the Nizhnekolymsk region of northeast Siberia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A prehistoric wolf dating back to 44,000 years has undergone an autopsy. The mummified predator was found in 2021 about 40 metres below permafrost by the river Tirekhtyakh in East Russia.

A prehistoric wolf dating back to 44,000 years has undergone an autopsy. The mummified predator was found in 2021 about 40 metres below permafrost by the river Tirekhtyakh in East Russia. Scientists believe that this discovery will help us understand life during the ice age. As reported by Live Science, this mummified adult wolf from the late Pleistocene epoch (between 2.6 million years and 11,700 years ago) is the first of its kind to have been discovered, according to the statement from the North-Eastern Federal University, where the ancient predator was examined. Also Read | Alarming Antarctic ice melt tipping point found, raises fears of sea level rise The cold and dry conditions in permafrost allow the animals to be mummified and preserved for centuries. The scientists took samples of the internal organs and gastrointestinal tract from the carcass of the age-old wolf to study its health and diet. "His stomach has been preserved in an isolated form, there are no contaminants, so the task is not trivial," Albert Protopopov head of the department for the study of mammoth fauna of the Academy of Sciences of Yakutia, said in a statement according to Live Science. "We hope to obtain a snapshot of the biota of the ancient Pleistocene." The wolf was identified as an adult male based on its tooth analysis and was an active and large predator. The team of researchers will be able to detect his diet, as well as the diets of animals it had consumed and remained in its stomach. Also Read | Painted lady butterflies defy the odds, first evidence shows it crossed an ocean A living bacteria can survive in fossils for thousands of years. The scientists believe examining the microorganisms that might be still living inside the wolf in a dormant and frozen state may benefit modern-day biotechnology and medicine. This project will help discover the wildlife and other ancient species that existed during the Pleistocene. The team will also study another ancient wolf found in 2023 in the Nizhnekolymsk region of northeast Siberia. (With inputs from agencies)

Ancient wolf autopsy may reveal secrets about the last ice age

Medical science is on the brink of a revolutionary change a tiny robot known as Pillbot is about to transform how we conduct gastrointestinal examinations.

Pillbot: Tiny swallowable robot for body examination

A new AI tool from Oxford University is stepping in to help doctors avoid mistakes while prescribing drugs called Drug GPT. Watch in for more details!

Drug GPT: New AI tool for medication safety & patient understanding

<p>Scientists have achieved a big milestone in the quest to address insulin shortages for diabetes patients. By genetically modifying a brown bovine cow in Brazil, researchers were able to extract human insulin and its precursor, proinsulin, directly from the cow's milk, as per a groundbreaking study published in Biotechnology Journal, reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The process involved somatic cell nuclear transfer to create specialised embryos, which were then implanted into cows.</p>

<p>Although only one transgenic cow was successfully produced, the results were promising. Analysis of the milk revealed the presence of both proinsulin and insulin, indicating the viability of this method for insulin production.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/global-decline-in-fertility-rates-to-create-a-demographically-divided-world-study-702719">Global decline in fertility rates to create a ‘demographically divided world’: Study</a></p>

<p>However, the study faced some limitations. Dr. Splenser, an endocrinologist with Memorial Hermann in Houston, reportedly highlighted concerns regarding the need for hormonal stimulation to induce lactation in transgenic cows.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The researchers had to hormonally stimulate the cows to lactate, which led to small amounts of insulin-containing milk being produced. Although the authors did identify signs of proinsulin and insulin in the cow’s milk using western blotting and mass spectroscopy, they did not prove if the insulin produced in the cows was actually physiologically active in-vitro or in-vivo,” Dr. Splenser said.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pregnant-women-working-in-extreme-heat-are-more-prone-to-miscarriage-and-stillbirth-new-study-suggests-702667">Pregnant women working in extreme heat are more prone to miscarriage and stillbirth, says new study</a></p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chile-water-crisis-catalonia-drought-copacabanas-youngest-beach-cleaner-702736">Chile water crisis | Catalonia Drought | Copacabana's youngest beach cleaner</a></strong></p>

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<p>While this breakthrough offers hope for addressing insulin shortages, ethical considerations surrounding the use of genetically modified animals must be carefully evaluated, reports said.</p>

<p>Biotechnology&nbsp;Professor at Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Dr. Wheeler, pointed out at the need for further research to asses the process.&nbsp;</p>
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<p>“One day we may be able to use milk as a source of critical medical proteins for human patients and maybe even develop a way to get insulin to diabetic patients without injections. However, that is a number of years away. This is a proof of concept study that was published. We need to produce more animals and determine the amount of insulin they can produce and the effectiveness of that insulin for treating diabetes," Dr Wheeler added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scientists have achieved a big milestone in the quest to address insulin shortages for diabetes patients. By genetically modifying a brown bovine cow in Brazil, researchers were able to extract human insulin and its precursor, proinsulin, directly from the cow's milk, as per a groundbreaking study published in Biotechnology Journal, reports said.

Scientists have achieved a big milestone in the quest to address insulin shortages for diabetes patients. By genetically modifying a brown bovine cow in Brazil, researchers were able to extract human insulin and its precursor, proinsulin, directly from the cow's milk, as per a groundbreaking study published in Biotechnology Journal, reports said. The process involved somatic cell nuclear transfer to create specialised embryos, which were then implanted into cows. Although only one transgenic cow was successfully produced, the results were promising. Analysis of the milk revealed the presence of both proinsulin and insulin, indicating the viability of this method for insulin production. Also Read | Global decline in fertility rates to create a ‘demographically divided world’: Study However, the study faced some limitations. Dr. Splenser, an endocrinologist with Memorial Hermann in Houston, reportedly highlighted concerns regarding the need for hormonal stimulation to induce lactation in transgenic cows. “The researchers had to hormonally stimulate the cows to lactate, which led to small amounts of insulin-containing milk being produced. Although the authors did identify signs of proinsulin and insulin in the cow’s milk using western blotting and mass spectroscopy, they did not prove if the insulin produced in the cows was actually physiologically active in-vitro or in-vivo,” Dr. Splenser said. Also Read | Pregnant women working in extreme heat are more prone to miscarriage and stillbirth, says new study Watch | Chile water crisis | Catalonia Drought | Copacabana's youngest beach cleaner × While this breakthrough offers hope for addressing insulin shortages, ethical considerations surrounding the use of genetically modified animals must be carefully evaluated, reports said. Biotechnology Professor at Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Dr. Wheeler, pointed out at the need for further research to asses the process. “One day we may be able to use milk as a source of critical medical proteins for human patients and maybe even develop a way to get insulin to diabetic patients without injections. However, that is a number of years away. This is a proof of concept study that was published. We need to produce more animals and determine the amount of insulin they can produce and the effectiveness of that insulin for treating diabetes," Dr Wheeler added. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists genetically modify cow to solve insulin shortages for diabetes patients

<p>The General Medical Council (GMC), the UK's oldest medical regulatory body, is set to issue a formal apology to gay doctors who faced discrimination due to their sexual orientation through&nbsp;the years.</p>

<p>This action follows&nbsp;a report by The Guardian, revealing the GMC's intention to extend apologies to medical practitioners who underwent investigations, sanctions, or practice restrictions under outdated laws criminalising homosexuality.</p>

<h2><strong>Long history of discrimination</strong></h2>

<p>The GMC&nbsp;conducted 'fitness checks' targeting male doctors between 1899 and 1994 due to their sexual orientation.</p>

<p>An internal investigation has disclosed that 40 male doctors were subjected to these checks, resulting in at least eight of them being permanently removed from the medical register, effectively ending their medical careers.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-vote-chaos-erupts-during-commons-debate-speaker-apologises-692511">Also read |&nbsp;Gaza ceasefire vote: Chaos erupts in UK parliament, Commons speaker apologises</a></p>

<p>The GMC's archivist, collaborating with the medical body's LGBTQ+ staff network, unearthed records documenting these discriminatory actions. Shockingly, the last instance of a doctor being barred from practising medicine was as recent as 1996, with some doctors facing scrutiny or warnings even beyond that date.</p>

<p>Charlie Massey, the Chief Executive of the GMC, expressed regret over the organisation's past actions, acknowledging the detrimental impact on the affected doctors' lives and careers, as reported by the Guardian.</p>

<p>Massey stressed the adverse consequences of the GMC's regulatory actions, which were based on homophobic laws prevailing until the 1980s and beyond.</p>

<p>In a forthcoming statement scheduled for Thursday (Feb 22), the GMC will convey a heartfelt apology, recognising the personal and professional harm inflicted due to outdated laws and discriminatory attitudes.</p>

<p>The announcement of the GMC's apology has been met with appreciation from the Association of LGBTQ+ Doctors and Dentists.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UK Trident missile fail: Is the Royal Navy in crisis?</strong></p>

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<p>“The profound impact of these actions on their lives cannot be overstated. This apology is an important step in righting the wrongs of the past and, while the hurt and damage that has been caused to those doctors cannot be undone, it is important to acknowledge past injustices,” Duncan McGregor of the GMC said, as quoted by the Guardian.</p>

<p>He added, “This apology represents progress towards justice for those impacted by these historic homophobic laws and progress for the LGBTQ+ community. We hope this gesture brings some measure of solace to those affected doctors and their loved ones.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The General Medical Council (GMC), the UK's oldest medical regulatory body, is set to issue a formal apology to gay doctors who faced discrimination due to their sexual orientation through the years.

The General Medical Council (GMC), the UK's oldest medical regulatory body, is set to issue a formal apology to gay doctors who faced discrimination due to their sexual orientation through the years. This action follows a report by The Guardian, revealing the GMC's intention to extend apologies to medical practitioners who underwent investigations, sanctions, or practice restrictions under outdated laws criminalising homosexuality. Long history of discrimination The GMC conducted 'fitness checks' targeting male doctors between 1899 and 1994 due to their sexual orientation. An internal investigation has disclosed that 40 male doctors were subjected to these checks, resulting in at least eight of them being permanently removed from the medical register, effectively ending their medical careers. Also read | Gaza ceasefire vote: Chaos erupts in UK parliament, Commons speaker apologises The GMC's archivist, collaborating with the medical body's LGBTQ+ staff network, unearthed records documenting these discriminatory actions. Shockingly, the last instance of a doctor being barred from practising medicine was as recent as 1996, with some doctors facing scrutiny or warnings even beyond that date. Charlie Massey, the Chief Executive of the GMC, expressed regret over the organisation's past actions, acknowledging the detrimental impact on the affected doctors' lives and careers, as reported by the Guardian. Massey stressed the adverse consequences of the GMC's regulatory actions, which were based on homophobic laws prevailing until the 1980s and beyond. In a forthcoming statement scheduled for Thursday (Feb 22), the GMC will convey a heartfelt apology, recognising the personal and professional harm inflicted due to outdated laws and discriminatory attitudes. The announcement of the GMC's apology has been met with appreciation from the Association of LGBTQ+ Doctors and Dentists. Also watch | UK Trident missile fail: Is the Royal Navy in crisis? “The profound impact of these actions on their lives cannot be overstated. This apology is an important step in righting the wrongs of the past and, while the hurt and damage that has been caused to those doctors cannot be undone, it is important to acknowledge past injustices,” Duncan McGregor of the GMC said, as quoted by the Guardian. He added, “This apology represents progress towards justice for those impacted by these historic homophobic laws and progress for the LGBTQ+ community. We hope this gesture brings some measure of solace to those affected doctors and their loved ones.” (With inputs from agencies)

UK medical regulator set to say 'sorry' to gay doctors for past discrimination

<p>A comprehensive study revealed that one in ten premature births in the United States is linked to pregnant women's exposure to phthalates, commonly found in plastic products. Phthalates, used&nbsp;to soften plastic, permeate thousands of consumer goods including containers, beauty products, and toys.</p>

<p>Phthalates, known as hormone disruptors, interfere with the endocrine system, posing risks of obesity, heart disease, cancers, and fertility issues. Lead author Leonardo Trasande of New York University's Langone Health told AFP about&nbsp;their capacity to induce early labour and birth due to hormonal influence.</p>

<p>Analysing phthalate levels in over 5,000 pregnant women's urine, researchers linked higher exposure to a 50 per cent&nbsp;increased risk of preterm birth before week 37. Extrapolating nationwide, approximately 56,600 preterm births in 2018 were potentially associated with phthalate exposure, accounting for 10 per cent&nbsp;of US premature births.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/frequently-nose-picking-leading-cause-of-progressive-dementia-study-687765">Also read |&nbsp;Frequent nose-picking leading cause of progressive dementia: Study</a></p>

<h2><strong>Healthcare costs and long-term consequences</strong></h2>

<p>Premature and underweight babies face heightened health risks, translating to significant medical and social costs ranging from $1.6 to $8.1 billion in the United States alone.</p>

<p>While the study focused on the US, Trasande warned of phthalates' pervasive presence, estimating their role in 5-10 per cent&nbsp;of premature births globally. Urging a balance between plastic's societal benefits and health risks, he advocated for a global treaty to curtail plastic production.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/research-outlines-significant-changes-that-happen-to-body-during-pregnancy-687587">Also read | Research outlines significant changes that happen to body during pregnancy</a></p>

<p>Trasande highlighted plastic as the primary source of phthalate exposure, stressing the need for collective action. He called for regulating phthalates as a group, considering the alarming potency of replacement compounds.</p>

<p>Trasande also warned against microwaving or dishwashing plastic containers, which can leach phthalates into food.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A comprehensive study revealed that one in ten premature births in the United States is linked to pregnant women's exposure to phthalates, commonly found in plastic products.

A comprehensive study revealed that one in ten premature births in the United States is linked to pregnant women's exposure to phthalates, commonly found in plastic products. Phthalates, used to soften plastic, permeate thousands of consumer goods including containers, beauty products, and toys. Phthalates, known as hormone disruptors, interfere with the endocrine system, posing risks of obesity, heart disease, cancers, and fertility issues. Lead author Leonardo Trasande of New York University's Langone Health told AFP about their capacity to induce early labour and birth due to hormonal influence. Analysing phthalate levels in over 5,000 pregnant women's urine, researchers linked higher exposure to a 50 per cent increased risk of preterm birth before week 37. Extrapolating nationwide, approximately 56,600 preterm births in 2018 were potentially associated with phthalate exposure, accounting for 10 per cent of US premature births. Also read | Frequent nose-picking leading cause of progressive dementia: Study Healthcare costs and long-term consequences Premature and underweight babies face heightened health risks, translating to significant medical and social costs ranging from $1.6 to $8.1 billion in the United States alone. While the study focused on the US, Trasande warned of phthalates' pervasive presence, estimating their role in 5-10 per cent of premature births globally. Urging a balance between plastic's societal benefits and health risks, he advocated for a global treaty to curtail plastic production. Also read | Research outlines significant changes that happen to body during pregnancy Trasande highlighted plastic as the primary source of phthalate exposure, stressing the need for collective action. He called for regulating phthalates as a group, considering the alarming potency of replacement compounds. Trasande also warned against microwaving or dishwashing plastic containers, which can leach phthalates into food. (With inputs from agencies)

Major study links common plastic chemicals to 10% of US premature births

<p>Over a decade ago, a preliminary estimate pointed to approximately two&nbsp;million annual deaths globally due to fungal infections. Recent findings reveal a nearly twofold increase, with the current estimate standing at around 3.8 million deaths. This staggering number constitutes approximately 6.8 per cent&nbsp;of total global deaths.</p>

<p>In a comparative analysis of global death statistics, fungal infections emerge as a significant contributor to mortality. With pneumonia at 2,600,000 (including some fungal cases) and tuberculosis at 1,208,000 (potentially including undiagnosed fungal diseases), fungal-related deaths command attention, comprising one-third of the 3,228,000 deaths attributed to smoke-related lung disease (COPD).</p>

<h2><strong>The unseen toll on lives</strong></h2>

<p>Despite advancements in fungal disease diagnostics, the accessibility and utilisation of these tests remain limited, not only in low-income countries but globally. Gaps in diagnostic services, exemplified by the absence of tests for certain common fungi, contribute significantly to preventable deaths. Timely identification of severe Aspergillus infections, crucial for intervention within 48 hours, could potentially save millions of lives annually.</p>

<p>The primary fungi responsible for fatal lung infections are Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus flavus. Individuals with underlying lung conditions such as asthma, tuberculosis, and lung cancer, as well as those with leukemia or who have undergone organ transplants, face heightened risks.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sex-development-disorders-existed-even-over-5000-years-ago-reveals-study-on-ancient-dna-680132">Also read |&nbsp;Sex-chromosome syndromes existed even 5,000 years ago, ancient&nbsp;DNA study reveals</a></p>

<p>Misdiagnosis or delayed recognition by healthcare providers, coupled with inadequate diagnostic testing and a shortage of effective antifungal drugs, contribute to the mortality associated with these infections.</p>

<p>In a parallel challenge reminiscent of antibiotic resistance, antifungal resistance is on the rise. The indiscriminate use of certain fungicides on crops is exacerbating resistance rates to azole antifungal drugs, posing a significant threat to effective treatment.</p>

<h2><strong>The intersection with COVID-19</strong></h2>

<p>The COVID-19 pandemic has unmasked additional challenges, with a surge in Aspergillus and Candida infections among intensive care patients worldwide. The phenomenon of mucormycosis, known as "black fungus," witnessed a significant spike in cases following the pandemic in India, further highlighting the complex interplay between fungal infections and respiratory viruses.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/living-near-green-spaces-boosts-bone-strength-in-children-find-out-why-679863">Also read |&nbsp;Living near green spaces boosts bone strength in children. Find out why</a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Over a decade ago, a preliminary estimate pointed to approximately two million annual deaths globally due to fungal infections. Recent findings reveal a nearly twofold increase, with the current estimate standing at around 3.

Over a decade ago, a preliminary estimate pointed to approximately two million annual deaths globally due to fungal infections. Recent findings reveal a nearly twofold increase, with the current estimate standing at around 3.8 million deaths. This staggering number constitutes approximately 6.8 per cent of total global deaths. In a comparative analysis of global death statistics, fungal infections emerge as a significant contributor to mortality. With pneumonia at 2,600,000 (including some fungal cases) and tuberculosis at 1,208,000 (potentially including undiagnosed fungal diseases), fungal-related deaths command attention, comprising one-third of the 3,228,000 deaths attributed to smoke-related lung disease (COPD). The unseen toll on lives Despite advancements in fungal disease diagnostics, the accessibility and utilisation of these tests remain limited, not only in low-income countries but globally. Gaps in diagnostic services, exemplified by the absence of tests for certain common fungi, contribute significantly to preventable deaths. Timely identification of severe Aspergillus infections, crucial for intervention within 48 hours, could potentially save millions of lives annually. The primary fungi responsible for fatal lung infections are Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus flavus. Individuals with underlying lung conditions such as asthma, tuberculosis, and lung cancer, as well as those with leukemia or who have undergone organ transplants, face heightened risks. Also read | Sex-chromosome syndromes existed even 5,000 years ago, ancient DNA study reveals Misdiagnosis or delayed recognition by healthcare providers, coupled with inadequate diagnostic testing and a shortage of effective antifungal drugs, contribute to the mortality associated with these infections. In a parallel challenge reminiscent of antibiotic resistance, antifungal resistance is on the rise. The indiscriminate use of certain fungicides on crops is exacerbating resistance rates to azole antifungal drugs, posing a significant threat to effective treatment. The intersection with COVID-19 The COVID-19 pandemic has unmasked additional challenges, with a surge in Aspergillus and Candida infections among intensive care patients worldwide. The phenomenon of mucormycosis, known as "black fungus," witnessed a significant spike in cases following the pandemic in India, further highlighting the complex interplay between fungal infections and respiratory viruses. Also read | Living near green spaces boosts bone strength in children. Find out why (With inputs from agencies)

Fungal infection deaths double globally in a decade: Study

According to a study published in the Lancet Neurology Journal, scientists might be one step closer to the early detection of Parkinson's disease. Harvard researchers have developed a detection test that can catch Parkinson's even before the onset of symptoms.

Gravitas | Medical marvel: New hope for Parkinson's patients

<p>In a medical milestone, a five-year-old girl underwent an awake craniotomy at AIIMS Delhi, using the Conscious Sedation technique, to address a left perisylvian intraaxial brain tumour.</p>

<p>Remarkably, she has now become the youngest patient globally to undergo this procedure, and has created a world record.</p>

<p>The young patient displayed exceptional cooperation during the awake craniotomy, marking a groundbreaking achievement in pediatric neurosurgery, as reported by ANI.</p>

<h2><strong>Teamwork and support</strong></h2>

<p>The success of the surgery is attributed to the outstanding collaboration between the neuroanesthesia and Neuroradiology teams at AIIMS Delhi.</p>

<p>Their combined efforts ensured the execution of high-quality functional MRI brain studies, crucial for the precision of the awake craniotomy.</p>

<p>Functional MRI brain studies played a pivotal role in the surgical process. These studies allowed the neurosurgeon to map the cortical areas, identifying vital regions known as the "eloquent brain."</p>

<p>Preservation of these areas is paramount during tumour removal to prevent damage and preserve essential brain functions.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-official-says-concealed-speed-limit-signs-in-delhi-got-him-challan-surprises-677226">Also read |&nbsp;Indian official says concealed speed limit signs in Delhi got him 'challan surprises'</a></p>

<h2><b>What is this surgical technique?</b></h2>

<p>Awake craniotomy, a sophisticated neurosurgical technique, permits the removal of brain tumours while the patient remains conscious.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ayodhya gets a major facelift: All decked up for Ram Mandir</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ayodhya-gets-a-major-facelift-all-decked-up-for-ram-mandir-inside-south-asia-677102/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>This approach aims to prevent potential damage to vital brain functions by enabling the neurosurgeon to conduct real-time cortical mapping during the procedure.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a medical milestone, a five-year-old girl underwent an awake craniotomy at AIIMS Delhi, using the Conscious Sedation technique, to address a left perisylvian intraaxial brain tumour.

In a medical milestone, a five-year-old girl underwent an awake craniotomy at AIIMS Delhi, using the Conscious Sedation technique, to address a left perisylvian intraaxial brain tumour. Remarkably, she has now become the youngest patient globally to undergo this procedure, and has created a world record. The young patient displayed exceptional cooperation during the awake craniotomy, marking a groundbreaking achievement in pediatric neurosurgery, as reported by ANI. Teamwork and support The success of the surgery is attributed to the outstanding collaboration between the neuroanesthesia and Neuroradiology teams at AIIMS Delhi. Their combined efforts ensured the execution of high-quality functional MRI brain studies, crucial for the precision of the awake craniotomy. Functional MRI brain studies played a pivotal role in the surgical process. These studies allowed the neurosurgeon to map the cortical areas, identifying vital regions known as the "eloquent brain." Preservation of these areas is paramount during tumour removal to prevent damage and preserve essential brain functions. Also read | Indian official says concealed speed limit signs in Delhi got him 'challan surprises' What is this surgical technique? Awake craniotomy, a sophisticated neurosurgical technique, permits the removal of brain tumours while the patient remains conscious. Also watch | Ayodhya gets a major facelift: All decked up for Ram Mandir This approach aims to prevent potential damage to vital brain functions by enabling the neurosurgeon to conduct real-time cortical mapping during the procedure. (With inputs from agencies)

Medical marvel: 5-year-old undergoes awake brain surgery at AIIMS Delhi, sets world record

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<p>Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have developed a 3D-printed device that mimics a medicine's effect on a patient's body and can eliminate the need for animal testing. According to a report by The Guardian on Thursday (Dec 28), the 3D-printed “body-on-chip” perfectly mimics how a medicine flows through a patient’s body. The chip would allow scientists to test medicines to see how different organs react without the need for live animal testing.</p>

<p>Every year, thousands of animals are used in the early stages of developing medicines worldwide. However, many medicines tested on animals do not end up showing any clinical benefits. The body-on-chip can end this testing method.</p>

<h2><strong>How does the chip work?</strong></h2>

<p>As per the report, the chip's five components replicate the human heart, lungs, kidney, liver, and brain. They are connected by channels that mimic the circulatory system, through which the medicines can be pumped.</p>

<p>The chip uses positron emission tomography (PET) scanning to produce detailed 3D images showing what is going on inside the organs. A PET scan is an imaging test that produces images of human organs and tissues at work. It involves an injection of a safe radioactive tracer that helps detect diseased cells. This type of scan detects early signs of cancer, heart disease, and brain conditions.</p>

<p>“The PET imagery is what allows us to ensure the flow [of new drugs being tested] is even,” Liam Carr, the inventor of the body-on-chip, told The Guardian.</p>

<h2><strong>‘A valuable tool’</strong></h2>

<p>“This device is the first to be designed specifically for measuring drug distribution, with an even flow paired with organ compartments that are large enough to sample drug uptake for mathematical modelling," Carr said.</p>

<p>He added the chip could be a valuable tool for investigating various human diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Carr’s supervisor, Dr Adriana Tavares said that linking five organs together on one device would help scientists effectively study how a new medicine might affect a patient’s whole body.</p>

<p>"This device shows really strong potential to reduce the large number of animals that are used worldwide for testing drugs and other compounds, particularly in the early stages, where only 2% of compounds progress through the discovery pipeline,” Dr Tavares told the publication.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have developed a 3D-printed device that mimics a medicine's effect on a patient's body and can eliminate the need for animal testing.

Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have developed a 3D-printed device that mimics a medicine's effect on a patient's body and can eliminate the need for animal testing. According to a report by The Guardian on Thursday (Dec 28), the 3D-printed “body-on-chip” perfectly mimics how a medicine flows through a patient’s body. The chip would allow scientists to test medicines to see how different organs react without the need for live animal testing. Every year, thousands of animals are used in the early stages of developing medicines worldwide. However, many medicines tested on animals do not end up showing any clinical benefits. The body-on-chip can end this testing method. How does the chip work? As per the report, the chip's five components replicate the human heart, lungs, kidney, liver, and brain. They are connected by channels that mimic the circulatory system, through which the medicines can be pumped. The chip uses positron emission tomography (PET) scanning to produce detailed 3D images showing what is going on inside the organs. A PET scan is an imaging test that produces images of human organs and tissues at work. It involves an injection of a safe radioactive tracer that helps detect diseased cells. This type of scan detects early signs of cancer, heart disease, and brain conditions. “The PET imagery is what allows us to ensure the flow [of new drugs being tested] is even,” Liam Carr, the inventor of the body-on-chip, told The Guardian. ‘A valuable tool’ “This device is the first to be designed specifically for measuring drug distribution, with an even flow paired with organ compartments that are large enough to sample drug uptake for mathematical modelling," Carr said. He added the chip could be a valuable tool for investigating various human diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Meanwhile, Carr’s supervisor, Dr Adriana Tavares said that linking five organs together on one device would help scientists effectively study how a new medicine might affect a patient’s whole body. "This device shows really strong potential to reduce the large number of animals that are used worldwide for testing drugs and other compounds, particularly in the early stages, where only 2% of compounds progress through the discovery pipeline,” Dr Tavares told the publication. (With inputs from agencies)

A 3D-printed chip mimics medicine’s effect on human patient’s body, could end need for animal testing

<p>Leading global healthcare firm Novo Nordisk on Saturday (Nov 12) said that the cardiovascular benefits of its immensely popular obesity treatment, Wegovy, were not solely attributable to the process of its weight loss process.</p>

<p>The study was presented at the American Heart Association annual scientific meeting in Philadelphia which saw the presence of many experts from the medical field.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the findings revealed that Wegovy, recognised chemically as semaglutide, has additional positive cardiovascular effects that emerged before the patients even began to shed weight.</p>

<p>Novo said that this implied that the heart benefits were not just associated with weight loss.&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>Can Wegovy be a primary treatment for heart diseases?</strong></h2>

<p>Dr. Chad Weldy, a cardiologist at Stanford University, said that the trial focused on how semaglutide might prevent heart disease from worsening and not how it can be prevented.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Considering the extensive 17,604-patient trial, the study should make doctors contemplate about who can be prescribed Wegovy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Anyone who has had a heart attack or obstructive coronary disease and has a body mass index of more than 27 fits in with this study, which is a very large patient population,” he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/dyson-zone-headphones-worth-your-money-657646">Dyson Zone headphones: Worth your money?</a></strong></p>

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<p>During the medical&nbsp;conference, Dr. Bruno Halpern, head of the obesity centre at Hospital 9 de Julho in Sao Paulo, Brazil, also argued that Wegovy should now be considered a frontline treatment for heart disease.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-was-more-charming-for-aliens-when-dinosaurs-existed-657525">Earth was more charming for aliens when dinosaurs existed</a></p>

<p>August's trial conducted by the Danish pharmaceutical company indicated that Wegovy not only facilitated an average weight loss of 15 percent but also demonstrated a 20 percent reduction in the incidence of heart attack, stroke, or death from heart disease.</p>

<p>Examining overweight and obese patients with preexisting heart disease but without diabetes, the study revealed that Wegovy led to a 28 per cent reduction in non-fatal heart attacks, a 7 per cent decrease in non-fatal strokes, and a 15 percent drop in heart-related deaths compared to the placebo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There are however several risk factors associated with the obesity treatment which include inflammation, blood sugar control, and blood pressure.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Leading global healthcare firm Novo Nordisk on Saturday (Nov 12) said that the cardiovascular benefits of its immensely popular obesity treatment, Wegovy, were not solely attributable to the process of its weight loss process.

Leading global healthcare firm Novo Nordisk on Saturday (Nov 12) said that the cardiovascular benefits of its immensely popular obesity treatment, Wegovy, were not solely attributable to the process of its weight loss process. The study was presented at the American Heart Association annual scientific meeting in Philadelphia which saw the presence of many experts from the medical field. Published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the findings revealed that Wegovy, recognised chemically as semaglutide, has additional positive cardiovascular effects that emerged before the patients even began to shed weight. Novo said that this implied that the heart benefits were not just associated with weight loss. Also Read | Melting sea ice causing heavier snowfall in Antarctica, staving off high sea levels Can Wegovy be a primary treatment for heart diseases? Dr. Chad Weldy, a cardiologist at Stanford University, said that the trial focused on how semaglutide might prevent heart disease from worsening and not how it can be prevented. Considering the extensive 17,604-patient trial, the study should make doctors contemplate about who can be prescribed Wegovy. “Anyone who has had a heart attack or obstructive coronary disease and has a body mass index of more than 27 fits in with this study, which is a very large patient population,” he said. Watch | Dyson Zone headphones: Worth your money? × During the medical conference, Dr. Bruno Halpern, head of the obesity centre at Hospital 9 de Julho in Sao Paulo, Brazil, also argued that Wegovy should now be considered a frontline treatment for heart disease. Also Read | Earth was more charming for aliens when dinosaurs existed August's trial conducted by the Danish pharmaceutical company indicated that Wegovy not only facilitated an average weight loss of 15 percent but also demonstrated a 20 percent reduction in the incidence of heart attack, stroke, or death from heart disease. Examining overweight and obese patients with preexisting heart disease but without diabetes, the study revealed that Wegovy led to a 28 per cent reduction in non-fatal heart attacks, a 7 per cent decrease in non-fatal strokes, and a 15 percent drop in heart-related deaths compared to the placebo. There are however several risk factors associated with the obesity treatment which include inflammation, blood sugar control, and blood pressure. (With inputs from agencies)

Heart benefits not solely due to weight loss: Drug maker Novo on its popular Wegovy obesity treatment

<p>Recent research conducted in the United States has revealed a concerning connection between moderate levels of fine particle pollution and a 56 per cent higher risk of developing Parkinson's disease.</p>

<p>This study, led by Brittany Krzyzanowski from the Barrow Neurological Institute in Arizona, sheds light on the potential link between air pollution and this debilitating neurodegenerative disorder.</p>

<p>The researchers also brought to light the&nbsp;intriguing regional disparities in this relationship, offering important insights into the role of environmental toxins in Parkinson's disease development.</p>

<p>Prior research had already indicated that fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, can trigger brain inflammation, a mechanism associated with the onset of Parkinson's disease.</p>

<p>Krzyzanowski and her team aimed to explore this connection further, understanding the extent of the risk and its geographic distribution.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-delhi-and-mumbai-air-quality-continues-to-worsen-situation-alarming-653394">Also read |&nbsp;India: Air quality in Delhi continues to worsen, smoggy Mumbai also no longer immune</a></p>

<h2><strong>Geographic variation and data sources</strong></h2>

<p>To conduct their study, the researchers identified nearly 90,000 Parkinson's disease patients within the vast Medicare dataset, which covers approximately 22 million individuals across the United States.</p>

<p>These patients were then geocoded to their residential neighbourhoods, enabling the researchers to analyse disease rates in different regions.</p>

<p>Additionally, the average annual concentrations of fine particulate matter in these specific areas were calculated, providing a crucial dataset for their analysis.</p>

<h2><strong>Regional disparities in Parkinson's disease</strong></h2>

<p>The study uncovered regional disparities in the prevalence of Parkinson's disease.</p>

<p>The Mississippi-Ohio River Valley emerged as a hotspot for the disease, with other areas such as central North Dakota, parts of Texas, Kansas, eastern Michigan, and sections of Florida also showing higher risks.</p>

<p>In contrast, individuals living in the western half of the United States were found to have a reduced risk of developing Parkinson's disease.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;New Delhi's air pollution woes</strong></p>

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<p>Krzyzanowski highlighted the possibility that regional differences in Parkinson's disease may be linked to variations in the composition of fine particulate matter.</p>

<p>Certain areas may have particulate matter with more toxic components, such as combustion particles from traffic and heavy metals from manufacturing.</p>

<p>These elements have previously been associated with cell death in the brain regions involved in Parkinson's disease.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Recent research conducted in the United States has revealed a concerning connection between moderate levels of fine particle pollution and a 56 per cent higher risk of developing Parkinson's disease.

Recent research conducted in the United States has revealed a concerning connection between moderate levels of fine particle pollution and a 56 per cent higher risk of developing Parkinson's disease. This study, led by Brittany Krzyzanowski from the Barrow Neurological Institute in Arizona, sheds light on the potential link between air pollution and this debilitating neurodegenerative disorder. The researchers also brought to light the intriguing regional disparities in this relationship, offering important insights into the role of environmental toxins in Parkinson's disease development. Prior research had already indicated that fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, can trigger brain inflammation, a mechanism associated with the onset of Parkinson's disease. Krzyzanowski and her team aimed to explore this connection further, understanding the extent of the risk and its geographic distribution. Also read | India: Air quality in Delhi continues to worsen, smoggy Mumbai also no longer immune Geographic variation and data sources To conduct their study, the researchers identified nearly 90,000 Parkinson's disease patients within the vast Medicare dataset, which covers approximately 22 million individuals across the United States. These patients were then geocoded to their residential neighbourhoods, enabling the researchers to analyse disease rates in different regions. Additionally, the average annual concentrations of fine particulate matter in these specific areas were calculated, providing a crucial dataset for their analysis. Regional disparities in Parkinson's disease The study uncovered regional disparities in the prevalence of Parkinson's disease. The Mississippi-Ohio River Valley emerged as a hotspot for the disease, with other areas such as central North Dakota, parts of Texas, Kansas, eastern Michigan, and sections of Florida also showing higher risks. In contrast, individuals living in the western half of the United States were found to have a reduced risk of developing Parkinson's disease. Also watch | New Delhi's air pollution woes Krzyzanowski highlighted the possibility that regional differences in Parkinson's disease may be linked to variations in the composition of fine particulate matter. Certain areas may have particulate matter with more toxic components, such as combustion particles from traffic and heavy metals from manufacturing. These elements have previously been associated with cell death in the brain regions involved in Parkinson's disease. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Air pollution ups risk of Parkinson's disease by 56%: Study

The first of the Nobel prizes has been announced and this year's Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine has gone to Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman who together identified a chemical tweak to messenger RNA better known as mRNA. Their work enabled potent COVID vaccines to be made in less than a year.

Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman awarded Nobel Prize for Medicine

<p>More than 10 people in Pakistan lost their vision after a locally manufactured injectable medicine to address retinal damage caused by severe eye infection.</p>

<p>The incident was reported from several areas of Punjab province, including Lahore and Kasur districts, provincial Health Minister Jamal Nasir said on Sunday (Sept 24).</p>

<p>According to Dawn newspaper, these patients, who were diabetic, were administered Avastin injections. However, the medicine led to severe infections, ultimately resulting in the loss of eyesight of 12 patients, including the brother of senior Pakistan People's Party (PPP) leader Chaudhry Manzoor and his friend.</p>

<p>Till Tuesday (Sept 26), more than 70 diabetic patients are said to have been affected,&nbsp;prompting the provincial caretaker government to impose a two-week ban on the sale and use of Avastin for ophthalmological treatments. However, it is not known whether all of these 70 have lost vision.</p>

<p>PPP was one of the ruling coalition parties of the Pakistan government that was recently dissolved to pave&nbsp;the way for elections. Former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari is the chairman of the party.</p>

<p>A case has been lodged against suppliers of locally manufactured injection Avastin and they are currently absconding, the health minister said, adding that the government has recalled the medicine from the market.</p>

<h2><strong>Gravitas: Pakistan army grabs government land to grow crops</strong></h2>

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<h2><strong>'Sale of fake injection stopped'</strong></h2>

<p>Nasir further said that dealers were selling counterfeit injections in several parts of the Punjab province. "None of the operatives of the fake injection-selling network has been arrested yet," he said.</p>

<p>Punjab caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi on X said that a crucial meeting was held with the health department and doctors to address the blindness cases and an action plan has been devised.</p>

<p>As per the plan, “immediate strict action” would be taken against drug inspectors responsible for the availability of non-sterile injections with a pending inquiry.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-denies-permission-to-chinese-spy-vessel-to-dock-in-colombo-min-says-indias-concerns-important-639654">Sri Lanka denies permission to Chinese 'spy vessel' to dock in Colombo, min says India's concerns important</a></p>

<p>He said that the Punjab government would provide free treatment to all the patients and a high-powered inquiry team had been formed for swift investigation.</p>

<p>“The police have been instructed to ensure the arrests of those responsible,” the CM added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-journalist-imran-riaz-khan-reunites-with-family-after-going-missing-for-5-months-639360">Pak journalist Imran Riaz Khan reunites with family after going missing for 5 months</a></p>

<p>He said the Punjab government has formed&nbsp;a five-member committee to probe the loss of eyesight among patients.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, doctors raised concerns over unsterilised injections and called for serious attention to prevent such incidents in the future.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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More than 10 people in Pakistan lost their vision after a locally manufactured injectable medicine to address retinal damage caused by severe eye infection. The incident was reported from several areas of Punjab province, including Lahore and Kasur districts, provincial Health Minister Jamal Nasir said on Sunday (Sept 24).

More than 10 people in Pakistan lost their vision after a locally manufactured injectable medicine to address retinal damage caused by severe eye infection. The incident was reported from several areas of Punjab province, including Lahore and Kasur districts, provincial Health Minister Jamal Nasir said on Sunday (Sept 24). According to Dawn newspaper, these patients, who were diabetic, were administered Avastin injections. However, the medicine led to severe infections, ultimately resulting in the loss of eyesight of 12 patients, including the brother of senior Pakistan People's Party (PPP) leader Chaudhry Manzoor and his friend. Till Tuesday (Sept 26), more than 70 diabetic patients are said to have been affected, prompting the provincial caretaker government to impose a two-week ban on the sale and use of Avastin for ophthalmological treatments. However, it is not known whether all of these 70 have lost vision. PPP was one of the ruling coalition parties of the Pakistan government that was recently dissolved to pave the way for elections. Former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari is the chairman of the party. A case has been lodged against suppliers of locally manufactured injection Avastin and they are currently absconding, the health minister said, adding that the government has recalled the medicine from the market. Gravitas: Pakistan army grabs government land to grow crops 'Sale of fake injection stopped' Nasir further said that dealers were selling counterfeit injections in several parts of the Punjab province. "None of the operatives of the fake injection-selling network has been arrested yet," he said. Punjab caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi on X said that a crucial meeting was held with the health department and doctors to address the blindness cases and an action plan has been devised. As per the plan, “immediate strict action” would be taken against drug inspectors responsible for the availability of non-sterile injections with a pending inquiry. Also read | Sri Lanka denies permission to Chinese 'spy vessel' to dock in Colombo, min says India's concerns important He said that the Punjab government would provide free treatment to all the patients and a high-powered inquiry team had been formed for swift investigation. “The police have been instructed to ensure the arrests of those responsible,” the CM added. Also read | Pak journalist Imran Riaz Khan reunites with family after going missing for 5 months He said the Punjab government has formed a five-member committee to probe the loss of eyesight among patients. Meanwhile, doctors raised concerns over unsterilised injections and called for serious attention to prevent such incidents in the future. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Over 10 people in Pakistan lose eyesight after being injected with locally made medicine

Jammu is set to lead India’s first Cannabis Medicine Project. The project undertaken by the CSIR-IIIM Jammu is in collaboration with a Canadian firm ‘IndusScan'. Union Minister Jitendra Singh revealed the importance of the project

India's Jammu kicks off the nation's first cannabis medicine project

<p>Researchers from the University of Virginia School of Medicine have made a significant discovery regarding the repair of cells responsible for hearing, offering potential advancements in treating and preventing hearing loss. The study focused on "hair cells", which play a crucial role in hearing and maintaining a sense of balance, possessing hair-like structures that act as antennas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Until now, it was believed that auditory hair cells, once damaged, could not regenerate. However, UVA Health's new research reveals that these delicate cells can indeed repair themselves following damage caused by loud noises or other stress factors.</p>

<h2><strong>Understanding repair mechanisms for hearing cells</strong></h2>

<p>The research, led by Jung-Bum Shin from UVA's Department of Neuroscience, aims to unravel the inherent repair processes of hair cells, ultimately leading to effective strategies to strengthen them.</p>

<p>One potential approach that could emerge from this research involves using drugs to stimulate cell repair.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/entrance-to-underworld-mysterious-tunnels-chambers-found-beneath-ancient-church-in-mexico-616477">Entrance to underworld? Mysterious tunnels, chambers found beneath ancient church in Mexico</a></p>

<p>If the replacement of hair cells proves challenging, focusing on repairing them could be a viable alternative. The repair strategy holds immense potential in advancing treatments for hearing loss and related conditions.</p>

<h2><strong>Understanding hair cell repair process</strong></h2>

<p>Hair cells, due to their role in sound detection, are naturally fragile and susceptible to damage from prolonged exposure to loud noises.</p>

<p>One of the ways they get harmed is through damage to their core structures known as stereocilia.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/smoke-rising-canadian-wildfires-places-60-million-us-residents-under-air-quality-alerts-616431">Smoke from Canadian wildfires places 60 million US residents under air quality alerts</a></p>

<p>Shin's research uncovers a process where hair cells use a protein called XIRP2 to detect damage to the cores made of actin and subsequently migrate to the damaged site to repair the cores by filling in new actin.</p>

<p>“Age-related hearing loss affects at least a third of all older adults,” Shin said. “Understanding and harnessing internal mechanisms by which hair cells counteract wear and tear will be crucial in identifying ways to prevent age-related hearing loss. Furthermore, this knowledge holds potential implications for associated conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and other dementia conditions.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Broader implications for cell biology&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The findings not only contribute to the understanding of hair cell repair mechanisms but also have broader implications for cell biology research.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Attack on Crimean Bridge: At least 2 killed in Kerch blasts, Moscow blames Kyiv</strong></p>

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<p>This pioneering work secured the research team a substantial grant of over $2.3 million from the National Institutes of Health to continue studying the repair of hair cell cores.</p>

<p>Gaining a deeper understanding of these repair processes holds promise in developing treatments for various hearing loss conditions, including age-related hearing loss, which affects a significant portion of older adults.</p>

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Researchers from the University of Virginia School of Medicine have made a significant discovery regarding the repair of cells responsible for hearing, offering potential advancements in treating and preventing hearing loss.

Researchers from the University of Virginia School of Medicine have made a significant discovery regarding the repair of cells responsible for hearing, offering potential advancements in treating and preventing hearing loss. The study focused on "hair cells", which play a crucial role in hearing and maintaining a sense of balance, possessing hair-like structures that act as antennas. Until now, it was believed that auditory hair cells, once damaged, could not regenerate. However, UVA Health's new research reveals that these delicate cells can indeed repair themselves following damage caused by loud noises or other stress factors. Understanding repair mechanisms for hearing cells The research, led by Jung-Bum Shin from UVA's Department of Neuroscience, aims to unravel the inherent repair processes of hair cells, ultimately leading to effective strategies to strengthen them. One potential approach that could emerge from this research involves using drugs to stimulate cell repair. Also Read | Entrance to underworld? Mysterious tunnels, chambers found beneath ancient church in Mexico If the replacement of hair cells proves challenging, focusing on repairing them could be a viable alternative. The repair strategy holds immense potential in advancing treatments for hearing loss and related conditions. Understanding hair cell repair process Hair cells, due to their role in sound detection, are naturally fragile and susceptible to damage from prolonged exposure to loud noises. One of the ways they get harmed is through damage to their core structures known as stereocilia. Also Read | Smoke from Canadian wildfires places 60 million US residents under air quality alerts Shin's research uncovers a process where hair cells use a protein called XIRP2 to detect damage to the cores made of actin and subsequently migrate to the damaged site to repair the cores by filling in new actin. “Age-related hearing loss affects at least a third of all older adults,” Shin said. “Understanding and harnessing internal mechanisms by which hair cells counteract wear and tear will be crucial in identifying ways to prevent age-related hearing loss. Furthermore, this knowledge holds potential implications for associated conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and other dementia conditions.” Broader implications for cell biology The findings not only contribute to the understanding of hair cell repair mechanisms but also have broader implications for cell biology research. Watch | Attack on Crimean Bridge: At least 2 killed in Kerch blasts, Moscow blames Kyiv × This pioneering work secured the research team a substantial grant of over $2.3 million from the National Institutes of Health to continue studying the repair of hair cell cores. Gaining a deeper understanding of these repair processes holds promise in developing treatments for various hearing loss conditions, including age-related hearing loss, which affects a significant portion of older adults. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Research discovers repair process that fixes damaged hearing cells

<p>India is home to 101 million people with diabetes and 136 million people who are dealing with prediabetes, according to a <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/landia/article/PIIS2213-8587(23)00119-5/fulltext">recent report&nbsp;published in the Lancet</a>.&nbsp;This indicates that the metabolic condition affects roughly 11.4 per cent&nbsp;of the nation's population.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare jointly financed the country's largest epidemiological research on diabetes and chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). All 28 states, two union territories, and Delhi, the nation's capital, are included in the research. Samples of a&nbsp;total of 1,13,043 people were&nbsp;used in the study. The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology, a highly regarded medical publication, has published the study's findings.</p>

<p>Goa has the most significant prevalence of diabetes, at 26.4 per cent, while Uttar Pradesh, the most populated state, has the lowest, at 4.8 per cent. The study found that, with the exception of prediabetes, urban areas had a higher incidence of all metabolic NCDs than rural ones. According to the nationwide survey, 315 million Americans have excessive blood pressure, 254 million are obese generally, and 351 million are obese in their midsections. In addition, 213 million individuals had hypercholesterolemia or elevated cholesterol.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/taurine-a-common-energy-drink-ingredient-may-slow-down-ageing-process-602580">Taurine, a common energy drink ingredient, may slow down ageing process</a></p>

<p>“It is quite evident from the study results that India has a substantial population at risk of cardiovascular disease and other long-term organ complications due to metabolic NCDs," &nbsp;Dr RS&nbsp;Dhaliwal, Scientist ‘G’ &amp; Head, Non-communicable Disease Division, Indian Council of Medical Research told the Hindustan Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The findings of this study are very significant as they provide robust estimates of NCDs for the nation. Compared to earlier estimates, India currently has a substantially greater prevalence of metabolic NCDs. In India, the diabetes epidemic is in transition, with some states having already reached their peak rates while others are just getting started. The study also demonstrates that despite the fact that all metabolic NCDs are more common in urban regions, rural areas have significantly greater prevalence rates than that reported previously," Dr R.M.Anjana, Managing Director, Dr Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre (DMDSC) and President, Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF told the Hindustan Times.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Symptoms of diabetes</strong></h2>

<p>The severity of diabetes symptoms is determined by blood sugar levels. Some people may not exhibit symptoms, particularly if they have prediabetes, gestational diabetes, or type 2 diabetes. Symptoms of type 1 diabetes may appear suddenly and are more severe, according to the Mayo Clinic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes can both cause the following symptoms:</p>

<p>- Noticing more thirst than usual<br />
- Frequent urination.<br />
- Weight loss without any effort.<br />
- Ketones are present in the urine. When there is insufficient insulin available, muscle and fat are broken - Down, producing ketones as a consequence.<br />
- Becoming worn out and fragile.<br />
- Irritated or experiencing other mood swings.<br />
- Vision that is hazy.<br />
- Having wounds that take a long time to heal.</p>

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India is home to 101 million people with diabetes and 136 million people who are dealing with prediabetes, according to a recent report published in the Lancet. This indicates that the metabolic condition affects roughly 11.

India is home to 101 million people with diabetes and 136 million people who are dealing with prediabetes, according to a recent report published in the Lancet. This indicates that the metabolic condition affects roughly 11.4 per cent of the nation's population. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare jointly financed the country's largest epidemiological research on diabetes and chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). All 28 states, two union territories, and Delhi, the nation's capital, are included in the research. Samples of a total of 1,13,043 people were used in the study. The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology, a highly regarded medical publication, has published the study's findings. Goa has the most significant prevalence of diabetes, at 26.4 per cent, while Uttar Pradesh, the most populated state, has the lowest, at 4.8 per cent. The study found that, with the exception of prediabetes, urban areas had a higher incidence of all metabolic NCDs than rural ones. According to the nationwide survey, 315 million Americans have excessive blood pressure, 254 million are obese generally, and 351 million are obese in their midsections. In addition, 213 million individuals had hypercholesterolemia or elevated cholesterol. Also read | Taurine, a common energy drink ingredient, may slow down ageing process “It is quite evident from the study results that India has a substantial population at risk of cardiovascular disease and other long-term organ complications due to metabolic NCDs," Dr RS Dhaliwal, Scientist ‘G’ & Head, Non-communicable Disease Division, Indian Council of Medical Research told the Hindustan Times. "The findings of this study are very significant as they provide robust estimates of NCDs for the nation. Compared to earlier estimates, India currently has a substantially greater prevalence of metabolic NCDs. In India, the diabetes epidemic is in transition, with some states having already reached their peak rates while others are just getting started. The study also demonstrates that despite the fact that all metabolic NCDs are more common in urban regions, rural areas have significantly greater prevalence rates than that reported previously," Dr R.M.Anjana, Managing Director, Dr Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre (DMDSC) and President, Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF told the Hindustan Times. Symptoms of diabetes The severity of diabetes symptoms is determined by blood sugar levels. Some people may not exhibit symptoms, particularly if they have prediabetes, gestational diabetes, or type 2 diabetes. Symptoms of type 1 diabetes may appear suddenly and are more severe, according to the Mayo Clinic. Type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes can both cause the following symptoms: - Noticing more thirst than usual - Frequent urination. - Weight loss without any effort. - Ketones are present in the urine. When there is insufficient insulin available, muscle and fat are broken - Down, producing ketones as a consequence. - Becoming worn out and fragile. - Irritated or experiencing other mood swings. - Vision that is hazy. - Having wounds that take a long time to heal. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Over 101 million people diabetic in India, Goa leads the list: Study

<p>In a breakthrough development, a new medicine called donanemab has been shown to have the capability to slow down by a third the progression of Alzheimer's, the most common type of dementia. This is the second medicine which has by now slowed down the pace of Alzheimer's disease.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per CDC, the disease can seriously affect a person’s ability to carry out daily activities. It starts off with mild memory loss but as it grows, it leads to loss of a person's ability to hold conversations and respond to the environment.</p>

<p>This new drug is developed by the company Eli Lilly and the firm claims that donanemab is effective in decreasing the pace of the disease's growth by a third.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-leader-says-ukraine-counter-offensive-has-begun-death-toll-from-kherson-shelling-rises-to-21-588678">Wagner leader says Ukraine counter-offensive has begun; Death toll from Kherson shelling rises to 21</a></p>

<p>Earlier this year, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Leqembi (lecanemab-irmb), a medicine which gained much traction last year, for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Alzheimer’s disease immeasurably incapacitates the lives of those who suffer from it and has devastating effects on their loved ones,” Billy Dunn, MD, director of the Office of Neuroscience in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research had said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new medicine from Eli Lilly also works in a similar manner to that of Leqembi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both Leqembi and donanemab, the two breakthrough medicines for the treatment of a disease which results in memory problems and disrupts daily life,&nbsp;work as antibodies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-14-killed-25-injured-after-road-accident-in-egypt-588676">At least 14 killed, 25 injured after road accident in Egypt: Reports</a></p>

<p>Normal antibodies attack the viruses but these medicines have a difference in how they function. Both medicines are engineered in such a way as to clear sticky gunk from the brain, called beta-amyloid.</p>

<p>"The decades-long battle to find treatments that change Alzheimer's disease is changing," said Dr Cath Mummery, the clinical lead for the cognitive disorders clinic at the UK's National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery.</p>

<p>"We are now entering the time of disease modification, where we might realistically hope to treat and maintain someone with Alzheimer's disease, with long-term disease management rather than palliative and supportive care."</p>

<h2><strong>Side effects of donanemab</strong></h2>

<p>Brain swelling is the most commonly seen side effect of the medicine donanemab. The volunteers in the research of the medicine included a total of 1,734 people. As part of the procedure, the medicine was infused on a monthly basis till distinctive plaques were cleared from the brain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though the future of Alzheimer's treatments is making headways through astounding feats like these, Lilly said the incidence of serious brain swelling in the donanemab study was 1.6 per cent. Two volunteers lost their lives because of the condition and a third death was also reported to have died after an incident of serious brain swelling.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Iran seizes Panama-flagged oil tanker in Tehran on judicial order | World News | WION</strong></p>

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<p>The research on the medicine showed that the pace was slowed by 29%. However, in some other cases, it slowed even to 35 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another change which was observed was that people who had taken the medicine were able to discharge certain activities in a more efficient manner. They were able to discuss current events and also drive or carry out their hobbies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are encouraged by the potential clinical benefits that donanemab may provide, although like many effective treatments for debilitating and fatal diseases, there are associated risks that may be serious and life-threatening," Eli Lilly Group vice-president of neuroscience research and development, Dr Mark Mintun, said.</p>

<p>But the medicine is yet not approved, something that the company said they are working towards accomplishing.&nbsp;</p>

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In a breakthrough development, a new medicine called donanemab has been shown to have the capability to slow down by a third the progression of Alzheimer's, the most common type of dementia.

In a breakthrough development, a new medicine called donanemab has been shown to have the capability to slow down by a third the progression of Alzheimer's, the most common type of dementia. This is the second medicine which has by now slowed down the pace of Alzheimer's disease. As per CDC, the disease can seriously affect a person’s ability to carry out daily activities. It starts off with mild memory loss but as it grows, it leads to loss of a person's ability to hold conversations and respond to the environment. This new drug is developed by the company Eli Lilly and the firm claims that donanemab is effective in decreasing the pace of the disease's growth by a third. Also Read | Wagner leader says Ukraine counter-offensive has begun; Death toll from Kherson shelling rises to 21 Earlier this year, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Leqembi (lecanemab-irmb), a medicine which gained much traction last year, for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. “Alzheimer’s disease immeasurably incapacitates the lives of those who suffer from it and has devastating effects on their loved ones,” Billy Dunn, MD, director of the Office of Neuroscience in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research had said. The new medicine from Eli Lilly also works in a similar manner to that of Leqembi. Both Leqembi and donanemab, the two breakthrough medicines for the treatment of a disease which results in memory problems and disrupts daily life, work as antibodies. Also Read | At least 14 killed, 25 injured after road accident in Egypt: Reports Normal antibodies attack the viruses but these medicines have a difference in how they function. Both medicines are engineered in such a way as to clear sticky gunk from the brain, called beta-amyloid. "The decades-long battle to find treatments that change Alzheimer's disease is changing," said Dr Cath Mummery, the clinical lead for the cognitive disorders clinic at the UK's National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery. "We are now entering the time of disease modification, where we might realistically hope to treat and maintain someone with Alzheimer's disease, with long-term disease management rather than palliative and supportive care." Side effects of donanemab Brain swelling is the most commonly seen side effect of the medicine donanemab. The volunteers in the research of the medicine included a total of 1,734 people. As part of the procedure, the medicine was infused on a monthly basis till distinctive plaques were cleared from the brain. Though the future of Alzheimer's treatments is making headways through astounding feats like these, Lilly said the incidence of serious brain swelling in the donanemab study was 1.6 per cent. Two volunteers lost their lives because of the condition and a third death was also reported to have died after an incident of serious brain swelling. Watch | Iran seizes Panama-flagged oil tanker in Tehran on judicial order | World News | WION × The research on the medicine showed that the pace was slowed by 29%. However, in some other cases, it slowed even to 35 per cent. Another change which was observed was that people who had taken the medicine were able to discharge certain activities in a more efficient manner. They were able to discuss current events and also drive or carry out their hobbies. "We are encouraged by the potential clinical benefits that donanemab may provide, although like many effective treatments for debilitating and fatal diseases, there are associated risks that may be serious and life-threatening," Eli Lilly Group vice-president of neuroscience research and development, Dr Mark Mintun, said. But the medicine is yet not approved, something that the company said they are working towards accomplishing. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Alzheimer's disease slowed down by a third with this new breakthrough medicine

<p>Trouble sleeping may be an early sign of&nbsp;Alzheimer's disease. Most&nbsp;people who are ultimately diagnosed with Alzheimer's find it difficult to fall and stay asleep, years before cognitive issues like memory loss and disorientation start to show up.&nbsp;It's a vicious cycle: sleep disturbances brought on by Alzheimer's disease are accelerated by poor sleep, which in turn causes more damaging alterations to the brain.</p>

<p>A potential strategy that might help in ending that cycle has been discovered by Washington University School of Medicine researchers.&nbsp;According to a&nbsp;two-night study, individuals who took a sleeping pill before bed noticed a decrease in the levels of key proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease. This is a positive development because a rise in these proteins is associated with a worsening of the condition.</p>

<p>The study suggests that sleep medications may be able to slow or stop the progression of Alzheimer's disease, though much more research is required to confirm the viability of such a strategy. Suvorexant, the sleeping aid used in the study, already holds FDA approval for treating insomnia.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/first-signs-of-alzheimers-may-appear-in-eyes-study-shows-575833">First signs of Alzheimer's may appear in the eyes, study shows</a></p>

<p>“This is a small, proof-of-concept study. It would be premature for people who are worried about developing Alzheimer’s to interpret it as a reason to start taking suvorexant every night,” said senior author&nbsp;Brendan Lucey, MD, an associate professor of neurology and director of Washington University’s&nbsp;Sleep Medicine Center.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We don’t yet know whether long-term use is effective in staving off cognitive decline, and if it is, at what dose and for whom. Still, these results are very encouraging. This drug is already available and proven safe, and now we have evidence that it affects the levels of proteins that are critical for driving Alzheimer’s disease,” she added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Detecting&nbsp;Alzheimer’s disease</strong></h2>

<p>There are numerous approaches to diagnose Alzheimer's disease. A doctor's examination is frequently used to identify Alzheimer's. They will do many tests and assess your symptoms and signs.</p>

<p>Some of the early&nbsp;signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's dementia listed by the Mayo Clinic&nbsp;include:</p>

<p>-&nbsp;Memory impairment, such as difficulty remembering events</p>

<p>- Difficulty concentrating, planning or problem-solving</p>

<p>- Problems finishing daily tasks at home or at work, such as writing or using eating utensils</p>

<p>- Confusion with location or passage of time</p>

<p>- Having visual or space difficulties, such as not understanding distance in driving, getting lost or misplacing items</p>

<p>- Language problems, such as word-finding problems or reduced vocabulary in speech or writing</p>

<p>- Using poor judgment in decisions</p>

<p>- Withdrawal from work events or social engagements</p>

<p>- Changes in mood, such as depression or other behavior and personality changes</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Trouble sleeping may be an early sign of Alzheimer's disease. Most people who are ultimately diagnosed with Alzheimer's find it difficult to fall and stay asleep, years before cognitive issues like memory loss and disorientation start to show up.

Trouble sleeping may be an early sign of Alzheimer's disease. Most people who are ultimately diagnosed with Alzheimer's find it difficult to fall and stay asleep, years before cognitive issues like memory loss and disorientation start to show up. It's a vicious cycle: sleep disturbances brought on by Alzheimer's disease are accelerated by poor sleep, which in turn causes more damaging alterations to the brain. A potential strategy that might help in ending that cycle has been discovered by Washington University School of Medicine researchers. According to a two-night study, individuals who took a sleeping pill before bed noticed a decrease in the levels of key proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease. This is a positive development because a rise in these proteins is associated with a worsening of the condition. The study suggests that sleep medications may be able to slow or stop the progression of Alzheimer's disease, though much more research is required to confirm the viability of such a strategy. Suvorexant, the sleeping aid used in the study, already holds FDA approval for treating insomnia. ALSO READ | First signs of Alzheimer's may appear in the eyes, study shows “This is a small, proof-of-concept study. It would be premature for people who are worried about developing Alzheimer’s to interpret it as a reason to start taking suvorexant every night,” said senior author Brendan Lucey, MD, an associate professor of neurology and director of Washington University’s Sleep Medicine Center. "We don’t yet know whether long-term use is effective in staving off cognitive decline, and if it is, at what dose and for whom. Still, these results are very encouraging. This drug is already available and proven safe, and now we have evidence that it affects the levels of proteins that are critical for driving Alzheimer’s disease,” she added. Detecting Alzheimer’s disease There are numerous approaches to diagnose Alzheimer's disease. A doctor's examination is frequently used to identify Alzheimer's. They will do many tests and assess your symptoms and signs. Some of the early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's dementia listed by the Mayo Clinic include: - Memory impairment, such as difficulty remembering events - Difficulty concentrating, planning or problem-solving - Problems finishing daily tasks at home or at work, such as writing or using eating utensils - Confusion with location or passage of time - Having visual or space difficulties, such as not understanding distance in driving, getting lost or misplacing items - Language problems, such as word-finding problems or reduced vocabulary in speech or writing - Using poor judgment in decisions - Withdrawal from work events or social engagements - Changes in mood, such as depression or other behavior and personality changes (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Taking sleeping pills lowers levels of Alzheimer's proteins, reveals study

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