World News

Tag: risk

  • Researchers Find Genes That Could Cause Childrens Cerebral Palsy

    Researchers Find Genes That Could Cause Childrens Cerebral Palsy


    The seven-year study, published in the journal Nature Genetics and led by scientists at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC), and Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, suggests the existence of many genetic variants contributing to cerebral palsy.

    The childhood-onset physical disability can have different causes, such as infections, injuries, or lack of oxygen before or during birth.

    However, the genetic contributors to the condition were not known yet.

    For 100 years, cerebral palsy was mostly thought to be the result of entirely environmental factors during birth.

    “Now that we have a better understanding of the complex relationship between cerebral palsy’s genetic and environmental factors, we hope we can improve care for these children,” said Dr Stephen Scherer, Chief of Research and Senior Scientist at SickKids.

    For the research, the team conducted whole-genome sequencing in 327 children with cerebral palsy, including their biological parents. They found that more than one in 10 children had a genetic variant or likely genetic variant for cerebral palsy, and 17.7 percent of children had variants of uncertain significance that may be linked with the condition after further research.

    “Our findings are a step forward in better understanding the complex genetic and environmental risk factors that may determine an individual’s chance of developing this complex condition to help individualise future treatment,” said Dr. Maryam Oskoui, senior clinician scientist at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre.



    Source link

  • Amblyopia: Study Claims Lazy Eye Puts Children At Higher Risk In Adulthood

    Amblyopia: Study Claims Lazy Eye Puts Children At Higher Risk In Adulthood


    According to a new study performed by UCL researchers, those who had amblyopia (‘lazy eye’) in childhood are more likely to experience hypertension, obesity, and metabolic syndrome in adulthood, as well as an increased risk of heart attacks.

    In publishing the study in eClinicalMedicine, the authors stress that while they have identified a correlation, their research does not show a causal relationship between amblyopia and ill health in adulthood.

    The researchers analysed data from more than 126,000 participants aged 40 to 69 years old from the UK Biobank cohort, who had undergone ocular examination.

    Participants had been asked during recruitment whether they were treated for amblyopia in childhood and whether they still had the condition in adulthood. They were also asked if they had a medical diagnosis of diabetes, high blood pressure, or cardio/cerebrovascular disease (ie. angina, heart attack, stroke).

    Meanwhile, their BMI (body mass index), blood glucose, and cholesterol levels were also measured and mortality was tracked.

    The researchers confirmed that from 3,238 participants who reported having a ‘lazy eye’ as a child, 82.2% had persistent reduced vision in one eye as an adult.

    The findings showed that participants with amblyopia as a child had 29% higher odds of developing diabetes, 25% higher odds of having hypertension and 16% higher odds of having obesity. They were also at increased risk of heart attack – even when other risk factors for these conditions (e.g. other disease, ethnicity and social class) were taken into account.

    This increased risk of health problems was found not only among those whose vision problems persisted, but also to some extent in participants who had had amblyopia as a child and 20/20 vision as an adult, although the correlation was not as strong.

    Corresponding author, Professor Jugnoo Rahi (UCL Great Ormond Street Institute for Child Health, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology and Great Ormond Street Hospital), said: “Amblyopia is an eye condition affecting up to four in 100 children. In the UK, all children are supposed to have vision screening before the age of five, to ensure a prompt diagnosis and relevant ophthalmic treatment.

    “It is rare to have a ‘marker’ in childhood that is associated with increased risk of serious disease in adult life, and also one that is measured and known for every child – because of population screening.

    “The large numbers of affected children and their families, may want to think of our findings as an extra incentive for trying to achieve healthy lifestyles from childhood.”

    It is a neurodevelopmental condition that develops when there’s a breakdown in how the brain and the eye work together and the brain can’t process properly the visual signal from the affected eye. As it usually causes reduced vision in one eye only, many children don’t notice anything wrong with their sight and are only diagnosed through the vision test done at four to five years of age.

    A recent report from the Academy of Medical Sciences* involving some researchers from the UCL Great Ormond Street Institute for Child Health, called on policymakers to address the declining physical and mental health of children under five in the UK and prioritise child health.

    The team hope that their new research will help reinforce this message and highlight how child health lays the foundations for adult health.

    First author, Dr Siegfried Wagner (UCL Institute of Ophthalmology and Moorfields Eye Hospital), said: “Vision and the eyes are sentinels for overall health – whether heart disease or metabolic disfunction, they are intimately linked with other organ systems. This is one of the reasons why we screen for good vision in both eyes.

    “We emphasise that our research does not show a causal relationship between amblyopia and ill health in adulthood. Our research means that the ‘average’ adult who had amblyopia as a child is more likely to develop these disorders than the ‘average’ adult who did not have amblyopia. The findings don’t mean that every child with amblyopia will inevitably develop cardiometabolic disorders in adult life.”



    Source link

  • Research suggests up to three meals of kimchi per day may lower men’s obesity risk – Times of India

    Research suggests up to three meals of kimchi per day may lower men’s obesity risk – Times of India



    WASHINGTON: According to research published in the open access journal BMJ Open, eating up to three servings of traditional Korean kimchi per day may lower men‘s overall risk of obesity, while radish kimchi is related with a lower incidence of belly bulge in both sexes.
    Kimchi is made by salting and fermenting vegetables with various flavourings and seasonings, such as onion, garlic, and fish sauce.
    Cabbage and radish are usually the main vegetables used in kimchi, which contains few calories and is rich in dietary fibre, microbiome-enhancing lactic acid bacteria, vitamins, and polyphenols.
    Previously published experimental studies have shown that Lactobacillus brevis and L. plantarum isolated from kimchi had an anti-obesity effect. And the researchers wanted to know if regular consumption might be associated with a reduction in the risk of overall and/or abdominal obesity, which is considered to be particularly harmful to health.
    They drew on data from 115,726 participants (36,756 men; 78,970 women; average age 51) taking part in the Health Examinees (HEXA) study.
    HEXA is a large, community-based long term study of the larger Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study, designed to examine environmental and genetic risk factors for common long term conditions among Korean adults over the age of 40.
    Dietary intake for the previous year was assessed using a validated 106-item food frequency questionnaire for which participants were asked to state how often they ate a serving of each foodstuff, from never or seldom, up to 3 times a day.
    Total kimchi included baechu (cabbage kimchi); kkakdugi (radish kimchi); nabak and dongchimi (watery kimchi); and others, such as mustard greens kimchi. A portion of baechu or kkahdugi kimchi is 50 g, while a portion of nabak or dongchimi kimchi is 95 g.
    Height and weight, for BMI, and waist circumference were measured for each participant. A BMI of 18.5 was defined as underweight; normal weight 18.5 to 25; and obesity as above 25.
    Abdominal obesity was defined as a waist circumference of at least 90 cm for men and at least 85 cm for women. Some 36% of the men and 25% of the women were obese.
    The results indicated a J-shaped curve, possibly because higher consumption is associated with higher intake of total energy, carbohydrates, protein, fat, sodium and cooked rice, say the researchers.
    Compared with those who ate less than 1 daily serving of total kimchi, participants who ate 5 or more servings weighed more, had a larger waist size, and were more likely to be obese. They were also more likely to not be highly educated, have a low income, and to drink alcohol.
    But after accounting for potentially influential factors, eating up to 3 daily servings of total kimchi was associated with an 11% lower prevalence of obesity compared with less than 1 daily serving.
    In men, 3 or more daily servings of baechu kimchi were associated with a 10% lower prevalence of obesity and a 10% lower prevalence of abdominal obesity compared with less than 1 daily serving.
    In women, 2-3 daily servings of this type of kimchi were associated with an 8% lower prevalence of obesity, while 1-2 servings/day were associated with a 6% lower prevalence of abdominal obesity.
    And eating below average quantities of kkakdugi kimchi was associated with around a 9% lower prevalence of obesity in both sexes. And consumption of 25 g/day for men and 11 g/day for women was associated with an 8% (men) to 11% (women) lower risk of abdominal obesity compared with no consumption.
    This is an observational study, and as such, can’t establish cause. And the researchers acknowledge that food frequency questionnaires can’t always accurately identify quantities, added to which the findings may not be generalisable to populations elsewhere in the world.
    They also note concerns that kimchi contains salt, high quantities of which aren’t good for overall health, although the potassium found in the fermented vegetables may help to counteract this, they suggest.
    They caution: “Since all results observed a ‘J-shaped’ association, excessive consumption suggests the potential for an increase in obesity prevalence. And as kimchi is one of the major sources of sodium intake, a moderate amount should be recommended for the health benefits of its other components.”





    Source link

  • UN sees North Korea rocket launches as threat to civilian planes, ships – SUCH TV

    UN sees North Korea rocket launches as threat to civilian planes, ships – SUCH TV



    North Korea’s rocket launches are a serious risk to civil aviation and maritime traffic, a senior United Nations official told the Security Council as it met to discuss Pyongyang’s first spy satellite launch.

    North Korea’s Foreign Ministry said the November 21 launch aimed to monitor the United States and its allies. On Monday, Pyongyang said it would continue exercising its sovereign rights, including through more satellite launches.

    Senior UN official Khaled Khiari told the 15-member Security Council that while Pyongyang issued a pre-launch notification to the Japanese Coast Guard, it did not notify the International Maritime Organisation, the International Civil Aviation Organisation, or the International Telecommunications Union.

    “The DPRK’s launches represent a serious risk to international civil aviation and maritime traffic,” Khiari said.

    Formally known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), North Korea has been under UN sanctions for its ballistic missile and nuclear programmes since 2006. This includes a ban on the development of ballistic missiles.

    Such technology was used to launch the satellite last week and follows the testing of dozens of ballistic missiles over the past 20 months. The United States has long warned that Pyongyang was ready to carry out a seventh nuclear test.

    “The DPRK has made its motivations clear. The DPRK is unabashedly trying to advance its nuclear weapons delivery systems by testing ballistic missile technology in clear violation of this council’s resolutions,” US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield told the council.

    “This reckless unlawful behaviour threatens all of the DPRK’s neighbours and all member states. As you heard from Mr Khiari, there was no notification of this action,” she said.

    Pyongyang says it is exercising its right to self-defence with its ballistic missile tests to safeguard its sovereignty and security interests from military threats.

    For the past several years the UN Security Council has been divided over how to deal with Pyongyang. Russia and China, veto powers along with the US, Britain and France, have said more sanctions will not help and want such measures to be eased.

    China and Russia say joint military drills by the United States and South Korea provoke Pyongyang, while Washington accuses Beijing and Moscow of emboldening North Korea by shielding it from more sanctions.



    Source link

  • Health risks associated with overflowing of Yamuna in Delhi; here’s what you can do – Times of India

    Health risks associated with overflowing of Yamuna in Delhi; here’s what you can do – Times of India



    After heavy rains lashed many parts of North India, the National Capital has been dealing with a flood crisis, with water levels in the river Yamuna reaching an all-time high — flowing at over 208 meters — on Thursday. While the water levels have started slowly receding, several areas of the city such as Kashmiri Gate, ITO, and Rajghat, are still reeling under water-logging.
    In such a condition, there is going to be a public healthemergency if enough attention is not given.“There can be major health issues that can creep up now as well as when the water level goes down,” says Dr. Manoj Sharma, Senior Consultant- Internal Medicine at Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj. Here are some potential health concerns associated with this event:

    Waterborne diseases

    The floodwaters of the Yamuna River may become contaminated with various pollutants, including sewage, industrial waste, and other harmful substances. This contamination increases the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, hepatitis A, and gastroenteritis. Ingesting or coming into contact with the contaminated flood water can lead to these infections.

    Vector-borne diseases

    Flooding creates stagnant water, which becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever, malaria, and chikungunya can spread rapidly during and after the flooding as the mosquito population proliferates. The increased presence of these disease-carrying insects raises the risk of outbreaks.

    Skin infections and dermatological issues

    Direct contact with contaminated flood water can cause skin problems and infections. Open wounds or cuts that come into contact with the polluted water are particularly vulnerable to infection. Skin rashes, irritations, and fungal infections may also arise due to prolonged exposure to unclean water and unsanitary conditions.

    Mental health impact

    Flooding can be a traumatic experience for individuals and communities. Displacement, loss of property, and disruption of daily routines can cause significant stress and anxiety. The long-term psychological impact can include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and other mental health disorders.
    Dr Shuchin Bajaj, Founder Director, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, elaborates on the following conditions:

    Respiratory problems

    The stagnant water can release foul odors and promote the growth of harmful bacteria and molds, leading to respiratory issues and exacerbating existing conditions such as asthma and allergies. If you live near the overflowing river, keep your windows closed and use air purifiers to maintain indoor air quality. In case of persistent respiratory problems, seek medical advice.

    Contaminated food

    Flooding can affect the safety of food supplies. It can contaminate crops and cause foodborne illnesses if proper hygiene practices are not followed during food preparation. Ensure that food is properly cooked and stored in hygienic conditions. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly with clean water before consumption.
    Dr. Vishal Sehgal, President, Portea Medical (MBBS, DNB-Orthopaedics), shares the following potential health risks and how to prevent them:

    Risk of electrocution

    The inundation brings about the potential for electrical hazards and the risk of electrocution. it is essential to exercise caution around electrical hazards, avoiding contact with power lines or submerged electrical equipment.

    Hypothermia

    The cold water can induce hypothermia, and the heightened moisture levels contribute to the easy spread of respiratory infections. Adequate warm clothing should be worn to prevent hypothermia, and individuals should seek shelter. In case of shivering or confusion, high temperature, an individual should seek immediate medical assistance.

    Animal bites

    There is also a heightened risk of animal bites like snakes. In flood like situations, providing animals with shelter is kind, but avoid provoking or approaching unfamiliar animals. If bitten, thoroughly clean the wound and seek medical attention for evaluation, possible vaccination, and tetanus prophylaxis.

    PREVENTION AND SAFETY

    To prevent these water-borne diseases due to flooding, Dr. Kamal Verma, Senior Consultant, Department of Internal Medicine, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, shares the following precautions:

    • Keep areas around the house dry and prevent water accumulation.
    • Wear full-sleeved clothes, particularly during the night, to reduce exposure to mosquitoes.
    • Avoid eating outside junk and packed food items that may be contaminated.
    • Apply mosquito repellent creams and use mosquito nets at home to protect against mosquito bites.

    Dr. Divya Singh, Senior Surgeon, Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and Director, Maaiya Social Change Front Foundation:

    • Avoid exposing the mouth, nose, and eyes to floodwater.
    • Boil water intended for drinking and food preparation.
    • Avoid walking in flooded or standing water.

    Dr. Hardik Sankhla, Project Coordinator at National Health Authority:
    “Drink safe water, practice good personal hygiene, avoid direct contact with floodwater, protect against mosquitoes, and follow official instructions. Prioritize your well-being by staying informed, taking necessary precautions, and seeking medical help if needed.”

    Dr Sabine Kapasi, Public Health Leader, United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination and Geneva:
    “Stay informed and follow the instructions and guidelines provided by local authorities regarding evacuation, road closures, and safety measures. Comply with their guidance on precautionary measures to ensure your overall well-being. Stay vigilant, take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your family, and seek medical assistance promptly if you experience any health issues or flood-related symptoms.”





    Source link

  • Stroke risk: Beware! Indian scientists warn exercise may trigger stroke if you have blocked arteries | The Times of India

    Stroke risk: Beware! Indian scientists warn exercise may trigger stroke if you have blocked arteries | The Times of India


    closecomments