Category Archives: Health

World Heart Day 2026: Don’t Miss a Beat—Simple Steps to Protect Your Heart

Sept. 29 (UDN): Every heartbeat is a reminder that the body is constantly working to keep us alive. Yet heart health is often overlooked amid busy schedules, unhealthy eating habits and sedentary lifestyles.

 Representational Image 

Observed every year on September 29, World Heart Day serves as a reminder to pay attention to cardiovascular health and take preventive steps before health risks turn into serious problems.

This year’s message, “Don’t Miss a Beat,” highlights the importance of recognising cardiovascular risks, making healthier choices and seeking timely medical advice.

Everyday Habits Can Affect Heart Health

Modern lifestyles have brought several risk factors for cardiovascular disease into sharper focus. Lack of physical activity, unhealthy diets, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and prolonged stress can all contribute to poor heart health.

Diets high in salt, saturated fats and other unhealthy fats can also increase cardiovascular risk, particularly when combined with physical inactivity and other lifestyle factors.

Heart-related health concerns are not limited to older adults. Cardiovascular risk factors can develop earlier in life, making prevention and regular health monitoring important across age groups.

Small Changes Can Make a Difference

Protecting heart health does not necessarily require drastic lifestyle changes. Consistent, manageable habits can form an important part of a healthier routine.

Some basic measures include:

Staying physically active and incorporating regular walking or exercise into the daily routine
Eating a balanced diet with more fruits, vegetables and whole foods
Limiting excess salt and unhealthy fats
Avoiding tobacco and smoking
Keeping alcohol consumption within recommended limits
Maintaining a healthy body weight
Finding healthy ways to manage stress
Getting adequate sleep

The right approach can vary from person to person, particularly for people who already have health conditions or cardiovascular risk factors.

Don’t Ignore Routine Health Checks

Lifestyle changes are only one part of heart-health prevention. Regular health monitoring can help identify important risk factors before they cause noticeable symptoms.

Checking blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol at appropriate intervals can help people understand their cardiovascular risk and seek medical advice when needed.

People with existing medical conditions, a family history of heart disease or other risk factors may require more regular monitoring as advised by their healthcare professional.

Listen to Your Heart—Before It Becomes an Emergency

World Heart Day is more than a date on the calendar. It is an opportunity to take stock of everyday habits and recognise that prevention often begins with simple decisions.

A little more movement, a healthier plate, less tobacco, better stress management and timely health checks can all contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

This World Heart Day, the message is simple: don’t wait for a warning sign to start caring for your heart. Every beat counts.

Family with Roots in Bihar Celebrates Dr Ian Sinha’s Prestigious Recognition by Prince Harry

 

Sept 28: The Sinha family has expressed immense pride and happiness following the prestigious recognition conferred upon Dr Ian Sinha by Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, honouring his outstanding dedication to improving the lives of children through exceptional medical care and compassionate service.

Dr Ian Sinha, Consultant Respiratory Paediatrician at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Liverpool, and Honorary Associate Professor in Child Health at the University of Liverpool, was recognised after being nominated by the parents of a child whose life was profoundly impacted by his care and commitment. The recognition celebrates not only his clinical expertise but also the trust and gratitude he has earned from the families he serves.

An internationally respected expert in paediatric asthma, neonatal lung diseases and child respiratory health, Dr Sinha has devoted his career to improving healthcare outcomes for children, particularly those affected by poverty and health inequalities.

He also serves as Clinical Lead for the Children and Young People’s Workstream of the National Asthma and COPD Audit Programme and as a Specialty Advisor to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), contributing to the development of national asthma guidelines.

For the Sinha family, whose roots are in Bihar, the recognition represents a deeply significant and proud moment.

“This honour is a proud and emotional moment for our family. Ian’s unwavering commitment to children and their families, his compassion and his pursuit of excellence have always inspired us. To see his work recognised by Prince Harry, following a heartfelt nomination by parents whose child he cared for, makes this achievement even more meaningful. It reinforces our belief that kindness, dedication and service to humanity are among the greatest legacies one can build,” the family said in a statement.

The family also acknowledged the countless children, parents, colleagues and healthcare professionals who have been part of Dr Sinha’s professional journey. They expressed particular gratitude to the parents whose nomination brought attention to the profound difference his care has made in the lives of young patients and their families.

The Sinha family extended their heartfelt congratulations to Dr Ian Sinha and wished him continued success in his efforts to advance child healthcare, inspire future generations of medical professionals and contribute to healthier futures for children across the United Kingdom and beyond.

Odisha Governor Calls for Sustained Thalassemia Awareness Drive

Bhubaneswar, Sept. 26 (UDN): Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati has called for a sustained, long-term awareness campaign on thalassemia to improve early identification of cases and strengthen public understanding of the blood disorder in the state.

 Pic Credit: x.com/DrHariBabuK

The Governor made the observation while chairing the executive committee meeting of the Indian Red Cross Society, Odisha State Branch (IRCS-OSB) at Lok Bhawan in Bhubaneswar on Friday.

Highlighting the need for continued public outreach, Kambhampati said a long-term awareness programme could help identify undetected cases, particularly in view of the reported number of people affected by thalassemia in the state.

He also advised the Red Cross to explore Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) support from corporate organisations to strengthen and expand its various welfare initiatives.

The Governor further directed that the IRCS-OSB executive committee should meet at least three times a year to facilitate regular monitoring, review ongoing programmes and ensure timely follow-up on decisions.

Focus on Elderly Care

Reviewing the organisation’s humanitarian and social welfare activities, Kambhampati appreciated the Red Cross’s initiatives in healthcare and community service.

He suggested specialised training programmes for volunteers involved in elderly care, while advising the organisation to obtain necessary government approvals and explore cooperation with the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

The Governor described the Indian Red Cross Society as an institution dedicated to selfless service and called for further strengthening the Red Cross movement in Odisha through greater participation of young people and volunteers.

He also emphasised expanding services and support for people in need across the state.

Officials Attend Meeting

Senior officials from the Health and Family Welfare, Higher Education, Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water departments attended the meeting along with members of the IRCS-OSB executive committee and representatives of other concerned departments.

IRCS-OSB Honorary Secretary Ganesh Chandra Patra presented the organisation’s activity report, outlining its programmes and initiatives undertaken in the state.

The Sunday Sleep Trap: Why One Long Sleep Isn’t Enough

For millions of people, Sunday morning feels like the one opportunity to catch up.

The alarm is switched off. The workweek is over. There is nowhere to rush. So the body gets what it appears to have been asking for all week: a few extra hours in bed.

Sleeping until 10 a.m., 11 a.m. or even noon can feel wonderfully restorative after several nights of late work, early mornings, long commutes and endless screen time.

But there is a catch.

One long Sunday sleep may help you feel less tired, but it cannot completely undo a week of inadequate sleep.

Sleep recovery is more complicated than simply adding up the hours lost during the week and trying to repay them in one weekend.

The Weekend Recovery Myth

Consider a common routine.

Monday to Friday, a person sleeps around five or six hours a night. By Friday, they are tired, irritable and struggling to concentrate. Saturday night becomes an opportunity to sleep longer, followed by an even longer Sunday morning.

It feels like recovery.

And in one sense, it is. Additional sleep can reduce sleepiness and provide the body with more time for recovery.

But researchers have found that weekend catch-up sleep does not necessarily reverse all of the effects associated with repeated sleep restriction.

That distinction matters.

Feeling better is not necessarily the same as being fully recovered.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that adults regularly obtain at least seven hours of sleep per night to support health and daytime alertness.

The goal, therefore, isn’t to build a sleep deficit during the week and settle the account on Sunday.

It is to avoid accumulating that deficit in the first place.

Your Body Doesn’t Have a “Reset” Button

One of the biggest misconceptions about sleep is that the body can simply compensate for lost hours whenever convenient.

It doesn’t work quite that way.

Sleep influences a wide range of biological processes, including brain function, metabolism, hormonal regulation, immune activity and cardiovascular health.

When insufficient sleep becomes a repeated pattern, the consequences can extend beyond feeling sleepy at work.

Research has linked habitual inadequate sleep with a range of health risks, although the relationship between sleep and individual health outcomes is complex and influenced by many other factors.

This is why occasional sleep loss should not be confused with chronic sleep deprivation.

A late night before an important presentation is one thing.

Getting five or six hours of sleep almost every night for months is something else entirely.

Why Sunday Can Create Another Problem

There is another side to the Sunday sleep trap.

Suppose your normal weekday schedule requires you to wake at 6:30 a.m. But after a tiring week, you sleep until noon on Sunday.

You have gained several hours of sleep.

However, Sunday evening may bring an unexpected consequence: you are no longer sleepy at your usual bedtime.

You stay awake scrolling through your phone, watching television or working late.

Monday morning arrives.

The alarm rings at 6:30.

You feel exhausted again.

The cycle starts over.

This is one reason sleep experts emphasize not only sleep duration but also regularity and timing.

Your internal biological clock responds to patterns. Large swings between weekday and weekend sleep schedules can make it harder for some people to maintain a consistent rhythm.

Catch-Up Sleep Isn’t Completely Useless

It is important not to turn this into another sleep myth.

Sleeping longer after a period of insufficient sleep isn’t necessarily bad.

If you have had a particularly short night, additional sleep can help reduce sleepiness. People recovering from accumulated sleep loss may also need extra sleep.

The problem is relying on this strategy as a permanent solution.

Think of it this way:

A weekend recovery sleep can be part of recovery. It shouldn’t become the entire recovery plan.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health notes that after several days of insufficient sleep, recovery can require several nights of good-quality sleep.

That is very different from assuming that one extended Sunday morning completely resets the body.

The Real Cost of a Week of Poor Sleep

Sleep deprivation doesn’t always announce itself dramatically.

Sometimes it appears as small changes:

• Losing concentration during meetings
• Making avoidable mistakes
• Forgetting small details
• Becoming impatient more easily
• Needing multiple cups of coffee
• Struggling to stay alert in the afternoon
• Finding it harder to make decisions
• Feeling unmotivated or mentally drained

For professionals, entrepreneurs, students and people working long hours, these effects can have practical consequences.

A tired employee may spend more time completing a task.

A sleep-deprived driver faces reduced alertness.

A business leader making important decisions may be operating with less-than-optimal attention.

The issue isn’t simply whether you can stay awake.

It is whether your brain and body are functioning at their best.

Seven Hours Is a Starting Point, Not a Competition

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that healthy adults regularly obtain seven or more hours of sleep per night.

But sleep requirements are not identical for everyone.

Age, lifestyle, health, activity levels and individual biology can influence how much sleep a person needs.

The important point is consistency.

Someone who needs eight hours cannot necessarily function optimally on six hours during the week simply because they sleep ten hours on Sunday.

Likewise, spending an excessive amount of time in bed does not automatically guarantee high-quality sleep.

Sleep quality matters as much as quantity.

What About Sleeping Until Noon?

Sleeping until noon occasionally is not automatically a health problem.

There may be perfectly reasonable explanations: travel, an unusually demanding week, illness, social commitments or a temporary disruption to the normal routine.

The concern arises when sleeping until noon every Sunday becomes necessary just to feel functional.

That could be a sign that the weekday sleep schedule is not providing enough rest.

If someone regularly sleeps for long periods but still feels exhausted during the day, the problem may also involve sleep quality or an underlying sleep disorder.

Persistent symptoms deserve professional attention rather than simply adding more weekend sleep.

The Better Weekend Approach

The answer isn’t to eliminate weekend relaxation.

Instead, rethink what the weekend is for.

Rather than using Sunday as a sleep rescue mission, use it as an opportunity to reinforce a healthier routine.

Protect your weekday sleep

Don’t wait until Friday to think about recovery.

If work requires an early start, set a realistic bedtime that provides enough opportunity for sleep.

Keep weekend timings reasonably consistent

You don’t need to wake at precisely the same minute every day.

But a huge difference between weekday and weekend wake times may make it harder to maintain a stable sleep-wake rhythm.

Use extra sleep strategically

If you are genuinely sleep-deprived, allowing yourself some additional sleep can be helpful.

Just don’t assume that sleeping half the day every Sunday compensates for chronic sleep restriction.

Reduce late-night stimulation

Phones, streaming platforms, work emails and social media can easily push bedtime later.

The problem often isn’t that people don’t have enough time to sleep.

It is that sleep keeps getting postponed.

Look for the underlying problem

If you repeatedly sacrifice sleep because of work, caregiving, commuting, entertainment or other commitments, the long-term solution is to address that pattern.

Weekend sleep cannot solve a schedule that is fundamentally incompatible with adequate rest.

The Sunday Night Test

There is a simple question worth asking:

After sleeping late on Sunday, can you still fall asleep comfortably at your normal bedtime?

If the answer is regularly “no,” your weekend sleep schedule may be pushing your biological clock later.

And if Monday morning consistently feels like a shock to the system, the solution may not be another Sunday lie-in.

It may be a more consistent sleep schedule across the entire week.

When Sleep Problems Need Attention

Occasional tiredness is normal.

Persistent sleep problems are different.

If you regularly experience difficulty falling asleep, frequent nighttime awakenings, loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness or consistently unrefreshing sleep, it is worth discussing the problem with a healthcare professional.

Simply sleeping longer on weekends may not address the underlying cause.

The Bigger Lesson

Modern life encourages people to treat sleep as flexible.

Work runs late.

Phones stay beside the bed.

Streaming platforms make “one more episode” easy.

Emails arrive around the clock.

Social commitments stretch into the night.

And then Sunday becomes the day when the body is expected to recover from everything that happened during the previous six days.

But sleep isn’t a luxury that can always be postponed and repaid later.

The body needs regular opportunities to rest.

A longer Sunday sleep can certainly feel good. It can help reduce sleepiness after a difficult week. But it should not become a substitute for adequate sleep on the other six days.

The goal isn’t to become someone who never sleeps late.

The goal is to become someone who doesn’t need Sunday to recover from Monday through Saturday.

The Bottom Line

Sunday sleep can help—but it isn’t a reset button.

If poor sleep has become a weekly pattern, the most effective change is likely to come from improving the entire sleep routine rather than relying on one long weekend morning.

Sleep more consistently. Protect your bedtime. Keep your schedule reasonably stable. And treat rest as part of your daily health—not as something to catch up on once a week.

Because the best Sunday recovery plan is not needing to recover from the whole week.

Health Disclaimer: This article is intended for general health and wellness information. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Persistent sleep difficulties or excessive daytime sleepiness should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.

India’s Pharma and MedTech Industries Gain New Momentum from PLI Push

India’s pharmaceutical and medical technology sectors are entering a new phase of growth, driven by rising domestic manufacturing, fresh investments and a stronger push towards innovation.

At the centre of this transformation is the government’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) programme, which is encouraging manufacturers to increase capacity, adopt modern technologies and develop products that were previously heavily dependent on imports.

The impact is becoming visible across the healthcare value chain. Pharmaceutical companies are expanding production of medicines and critical ingredients, while medical-device manufacturers are increasingly producing sophisticated equipment and implants within the country.

From volume to value in pharma

India has long been a major global supplier of medicines, but the next stage of growth is increasingly focused on moving up the value chain.

The pharmaceutical PLI scheme is supporting investments in areas such as complex medicines, high-value products and critical pharmaceutical ingredients. Government data show that the pharmaceutical drugs segment had attracted Rs 45,158 crore in cumulative investment by March 2026, while the bulk-drug segment recorded around Rs 5,070 crore in investment.

The significance goes beyond production numbers. Greater domestic capacity for critical ingredients can make pharmaceutical supply chains more resilient and reduce exposure to disruptions in international markets.

For Indian companies, it also creates room to expand manufacturing capabilities and compete for a larger share of global pharmaceutical demand.

Medical devices emerge as a new manufacturing opportunity

India’s medical-device industry is undergoing a similar transformation.

Under the Medical Devices PLI scheme, 27 projects have been approved, including 14 involving MSMEs, with actual investment of around Rs 1,153 crore.

Manufacturing is expanding into products such as MRI and CT equipment, mammography systems, C-arms, ultrasound equipment, radiotherapy systems, heart valves and stents.

This represents an important shift for India’s healthcare sector. Medical equipment has traditionally been an area where imports have played a significant role. Increasing local production can strengthen supply chains while giving domestic manufacturers an opportunity to develop technology and scale up.

Innovation becomes the next frontier

The government’s approach is also moving beyond factories and production lines.

The Rs 5,000-crore Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma MedTech (PRIP) scheme is designed to support research and development in new medicines, complex generics, biosimilars and innovative medical devices.

Emerging technologies such as AI, machine learning, robotics and advanced diagnostics are also becoming part of this innovation push.

This could create a larger role for startups, research institutions and MSMEs in India’s healthcare technology ecosystem, rather than limiting the sector’s growth to large manufacturers.

More investment, more specialised jobs

The expansion of healthcare manufacturing can have a wider economic impact. New production facilities require engineers, technicians, researchers, quality specialists and other skilled professionals.

At the same time, the growth of pharma and MedTech manufacturing can create opportunities for supporting industries involved in components, electronics, packaging, testing, logistics and specialised services.

This makes healthcare manufacturing an important link between industrial policy and employment generation.

Strengthening India’s healthcare supply chain

The PLI programme is also changing the conversation around healthcare security.

A stronger domestic manufacturing base can help India respond more effectively to disruptions in global supply chains and maintain access to essential medicines and equipment.

For hospitals and healthcare providers, a wider domestic supplier base could eventually provide more options for sourcing medical equipment and components. For manufacturers, it offers an opportunity to develop products suited to Indian requirements while building export capabilities.

The road ahead

The larger opportunity for India lies in combining manufacturing scale with research, technology and innovation.

PLI incentives have helped create an investment framework, but long-term growth will also depend on companies developing globally competitive products, improving quality, investing in R&D and building skilled talent.

As pharmaceutical and medical-device manufacturing expands, India’s healthcare industry could increasingly move from being primarily a large consumer market to becoming a stronger global production and innovation hub.

The PLI push is therefore not just about increasing factory output. It is helping reshape India’s healthcare manufacturing ecosystem around domestic capability, technology, investment and global competitiveness.

Is Anti-Ageing Really Worth It?

The Science Behind Living Younger, Longer

Ageing is one of the few things every human being experiences, yet it remains one of the most aggressively marketed aspects of modern health and wellness.

From anti-ageing creams and supplements to hormone therapies, longevity clinics, personalised health programmes and experimental cellular treatments, the promise is increasingly ambitious: look younger, feel younger and perhaps even reverse some of the biological changes associated with ageing.

But how much of this is actually supported by science?

The answer is more complicated than either the marketing industry or its critics sometimes suggest.

Ageing cannot currently be switched off. Nor is there an established medical treatment that has been proven to reverse the human ageing process. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration states that no medication has been proven to slow or reverse ageing.

At the same time, researchers are learning considerably more about the biological mechanisms involved in ageing. Scientists are studying cellular senescence, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, DNA damage, epigenetic changes, stem-cell behaviour and other processes that may contribute to age-related decline.

The important distinction is this: the science of healthy ageing is real, while the promise of becoming biologically young again remains largely experimental.

The Question We Should Really Be Asking

Perhaps the biggest problem with the phrase “anti-ageing” is that it treats ageing itself as a disease.

Growing older is a normal biological process. The more meaningful health question is not necessarily, “How can I stop ageing?” but rather:

How can I remain healthy, independent and physically and mentally capable for as long as possible?

The World Health Organization describes healthy ageing in terms of maintaining functional ability and well-being rather than simply eliminating signs of age. It also points out that people of the same chronological age can have very different levels of physical and mental capacity.

That distinction is crucial.

Someone may have wrinkles, grey hair and a high chronological age while remaining physically active, socially connected and independent. Another person may be younger but have significant chronic disease or reduced mobility.

Therefore, ageing well is not necessarily about looking 30 when you are 60. It is about preserving the ability to live a meaningful life.

Chronological Age vs Biological Age

Your chronological age is straightforward: it is the number of years since you were born.

Biological ageing is more complicated.

Two people of the same chronological age can have very different cardiovascular health, muscle strength, metabolic health, cognitive function and overall physical capacity.

This has created enormous interest in the concept of “biological age.”

Researchers are investigating biomarkers that may provide clues about how rapidly an individual’s body is ageing. Some commercial companies now offer tests claiming to estimate biological age using blood markers or other measurements.

However, consumers should be cautious about treating a biological-age number as a definitive medical diagnosis.

A single score cannot capture every aspect of human health, and a laboratory measurement should not automatically be interpreted as proof that a person is ageing faster or slower than another individual.

The science of ageing biomarkers is developing, but the marketing around them can move considerably faster than the evidence.

What Happens to the Body as We Age?

Ageing affects virtually every biological system.

Muscle mass and strength can decline. Bone density can change. The cardiovascular system becomes less resilient. The immune system changes. Vision and hearing may deteriorate. Sleep patterns can shift. The risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and certain cancers generally increases with age.

At the cellular level, researchers are studying several interconnected processes.

Cellular Senescence

Some damaged or stressed cells stop dividing but do not immediately disappear. These are known as senescent cells.

Scientists are investigating whether the accumulation of such cells contributes to age-related dysfunction and whether selectively removing them could have therapeutic benefits.

This area of research has generated interest in a class of experimental compounds called senolytics.

But an important distinction remains: promising laboratory or early clinical findings do not automatically establish a treatment as safe, effective and ready for widespread use.

Epigenetic Changes

Cells contain the same basic DNA, but different genes can be switched on or off depending on the cell’s function and biological state.

The study of these regulatory mechanisms, known as epigenetics, has become an important part of ageing research.

Researchers are investigating whether some aspects of cellular ageing might eventually be modified through controlled epigenetic reprogramming.

This is one of the areas that fuels excitement around “age reversal.” But scientific ability to influence cellular processes should not be confused with an established therapy that can safely rejuvenate an entire human body.

Mitochondrial Changes

Mitochondria are often described as the energy-producing structures of cells.

Age-related changes in mitochondrial function are another area of investigation. Researchers are studying how these changes interact with metabolism, inflammation and cellular damage.

Again, the objective is not simply to make a cell appear younger in a laboratory. The ultimate challenge is demonstrating that an intervention produces meaningful improvements in human health without unacceptable risks.

The Most Powerful Anti-Ageing Strategy May Be Surprisingly Ordinary

While laboratories explore sophisticated technologies, some of the strongest evidence for healthy ageing continues to involve remarkably familiar behaviours.

Move more. Eat well. Don’t smoke. Sleep properly. Maintain healthy relationships. Manage chronic health conditions. Stay socially and mentally engaged.

The WHO notes that regular physical activity, a balanced diet and avoiding tobacco contribute to reducing the risk of noncommunicable diseases and maintaining physical and mental capacity as people age.

The National Institute on Aging similarly identifies physical activity and healthy lifestyle choices as important components of healthy ageing.

That may sound less exciting than a futuristic anti-ageing pill, but it matters because these behaviours influence several systems simultaneously.

Exercise: Perhaps the Closest Thing to a Universal Ageing Intervention

Exercise does not stop the clock.

But it can help preserve the things that make later life healthier.

Regular physical activity is associated with lower risks of several chronic diseases and can support cardiovascular health, mental health, sleep, mobility and physical function.

For older adults, exercise can also help maintain muscle strength, balance and functional independence.

The National Institute on Aging recommends a combination of aerobic activity, muscle-strengthening activity and balance-related exercise for older adults. Its guidance cites 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity and muscle-strengthening activities on at least two days per week as general recommendations.

The message is important: exercise is not merely about burning calories.

It is about maintaining the physical capacity to climb stairs, carry groceries, get out of a chair, travel, play with grandchildren and continue living independently.

That is a form of age management with a very tangible outcome.

Food Matters — But There Is No Magic Anti-Ageing Diet

The anti-ageing market is filled with specialised diets, powders, capsules and nutritional products.

The underlying science is much less glamorous.

The WHO describes a healthy diet as one based on adequacy, balance, moderation and diversity, with minimally processed or unprocessed foods forming an important foundation.

For healthy ageing, the practical objective is to obtain adequate nutrients while limiting excessive amounts of unhealthy fats, free sugars and sodium.

The National Institute on Aging also highlights the importance of nutrient-dense foods and adequate protein for maintaining muscle as people grow older.

There is no single food that can “reverse ageing.”

Blueberries, turmeric, green tea, nuts, olive oil or other foods may have nutritional benefits, but none should be presented as a magic solution to ageing.

The same principle applies to supplements.

A supplement can be useful when someone has a genuine nutritional deficiency or a medically appropriate indication. That is very different from claiming that a supplement can generally reverse biological ageing.

Sleep Is an Underestimated Part of Healthy Ageing

Sleep often receives less attention than diet and exercise, but it is fundamental to health.

The National Institute on Aging notes that adults, including older adults, generally need around seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Poor-quality sleep can affect physical and mental health, daytime functioning and safety.

Persistent sleep problems should not simply be dismissed as an unavoidable consequence of getting older.

Conditions such as sleep apnoea and insomnia may require medical evaluation.

In other words, sleeping well is not a cosmetic anti-ageing treatment. It is part of maintaining the biological systems that support health.

What About Anti-Ageing Creams?

Here the answer depends on what someone expects from a product.

Skincare can improve the appearance and condition of the skin. Sun protection, moisturisation and certain dermatological ingredients can have legitimate cosmetic or dermatological benefits.

But improving skin appearance is not the same as reversing systemic ageing.

A cream cannot make an entire organism biologically younger.

This distinction is frequently blurred in advertising, where improvements in wrinkles, pigmentation or skin texture may be described using broader language such as “reversing ageing.”

Consumers should therefore ask a simple question:

What exactly is the product claiming to change?

Is it improving skin appearance?

Is it treating a specific medical condition?

Or is it claiming to change the fundamental ageing process?

Those are three very different claims.

The Rise of Longevity Medicine

A new field of research is attempting to understand ageing at a deeper biological level.

The emerging field often described as geroscience investigates the biological mechanisms of ageing and their relationship with age-related diseases.

Researchers are examining potential interventions involving pathways related to metabolism, cellular senescence, inflammation, nutrient sensing and cellular repair.

The long-term objective is not necessarily immortality.

A more realistic scientific goal is healthspan — increasing the period of life during which a person remains healthy and functionally independent.

This is an important shift.

Living to 100 is not necessarily a medical victory if most of those additional years are spent with severe disability or illness.

The more meaningful goal may be to increase the number of years lived in good health.

Can Existing Drugs Reverse Ageing?

This is where consumers need to be particularly careful.

Various established medications and experimental compounds have attracted attention because of their effects on biological pathways associated with ageing.

Some are being studied in clinical research for age-related conditions or longevity-related outcomes.

But “being studied” does not mean “proven.”

A medication that affects a pathway associated with ageing may not necessarily extend healthy human lifespan. It may also have side effects, drug interactions or risks that become particularly important when used by healthy people.

The FDA specifically warns that no medication has been proven to slow or reverse the ageing process.

That does not mean ageing research is pointless.

It means the evidence has to be separated from the marketing.

The Problem With the Anti-Ageing Industry

The desire to stay young is commercially powerful.

It can sell cosmetics, supplements, diagnostic tests, fitness programmes, private medical services and wellness products.

The danger arises when scientific terminology is used to create an impression of certainty that the underlying evidence does not support.

Words such as “cellular,” “DNA,” “epigenetic,” “longevity,” “detox,” “rejuvenation” and “biological age” can sound highly scientific.

But a scientific-sounding product description is not evidence of clinical effectiveness.

Before spending money on an anti-ageing product or treatment, consumers should ask:

• What specific health outcome has been demonstrated?
• Was the research conducted in humans?
• How large was the study?
• Was there a control group?
• Was the study published in a reputable peer-reviewed journal?
• Has the finding been independently replicated?
• What are the known risks?
• Is the product regulated or medically approved for the claimed use?
• Does the evidence show longer life, healthier life, or merely a change in a laboratory marker?
• Are the claims being made by independent researchers or primarily by the company selling the product?

These questions can expose the difference between genuine innovation and sophisticated marketing.

Ageing Should Not Become Something We Are Afraid Of

There is another issue that deserves attention.

The constant marketing of youth can create the impression that getting older is a failure.

Grey hair becomes something to hide. Wrinkles become something to eliminate. Age becomes something to fight.

But ageing is not simply a cosmetic problem.

People can become healthier in important ways as they get older. They can gain experience, emotional maturity, knowledge, relationships and perspective.

The objective of healthy ageing should therefore not be to erase age.

It should be to reduce preventable disease and preserve function.

That means being able to think clearly, move safely, maintain relationships, participate in society and continue doing the things that give life meaning.

Healthspan May Matter More Than Lifespan

Imagine two people who both live to 90.

One remains active and independent until 85 and experiences several years of serious health problems.

The other spends decades with significant disability and reaches the same age.

Their chronological lifespan is identical.

Their healthspan is not.

This is why the distinction between lifespan and healthspan is becoming increasingly important in ageing research.

The WHO similarly emphasises that living longer only produces the greatest benefit when the additional years are accompanied by good health and functional ability.

For individuals, this changes the question from:

“How can I live forever?”

to:

“How can I increase the number of healthy years I have?”

That is a much more practical question.

The Anti-Ageing Checklist That Actually Makes Sense

For most people, healthy ageing does not require an expensive longevity programme.

A sensible foundation includes:

1. Stay physically active

Combine aerobic activity with strength, balance and mobility work appropriate to your age and health status.

2. Eat a varied, nutrient-dense diet

Prioritise vegetables, fruits, whole grains, pulses and appropriate protein sources while limiting excessive sugar, unhealthy fats and sodium.

3. Don’t smoke

Tobacco avoidance remains one of the most consequential choices for long-term health.

4. Take sleep seriously

Aim for adequate, regular sleep and seek medical advice when persistent sleep problems occur.

5. Maintain social connections

Relationships and social participation are important components of healthy ageing and well-being.

6. Monitor established health risks

Blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and other relevant health indicators should be managed according to individual medical advice.

7. Protect your skin

Sun protection can help reduce cumulative ultraviolet damage and is a much more evidence-based approach to maintaining skin health than many extravagant anti-ageing claims.

8. Keep the brain engaged

Learning, hobbies, meaningful activities and social interaction can contribute to an active and engaged later life.

9. Be sceptical of miracle claims

If a product promises dramatic age reversal with little effort, the evidence deserves particularly careful scrutiny.

10. Talk to a qualified healthcare professional

Especially before taking supplements, hormones, prescription drugs or experimental treatments for longevity.

So, Is Anti-Ageing Really Worth It?

The answer depends on what we mean by “anti-ageing.”

If it means trying to prevent avoidable disease, preserve muscle, maintain cardiovascular health, protect cognitive function, sleep well and remain independent for as long as possible, then the underlying objective is strongly supported by modern health science.

If it means buying a product that promises to literally turn back the biological clock, the situation is very different.

Ageing research is producing fascinating discoveries. Scientists are learning more about why cells and tissues deteriorate and whether some aspects of that process can be modified.

But scientific discovery is a journey, not a marketing slogan.

For now, there is no established pill, supplement or treatment that can make humans biologically young again.

The most credible approach is therefore not to wage war against ageing itself.

It is to build a longer healthspan.

And that may ultimately be the most meaningful form of anti-ageing medicine: not making someone look 20 years younger, but helping them remain strong, independent and healthy for more of the years they have.

The Bottom Line

Ageing is inevitable. Poor health is not.

Science may eventually discover interventions capable of modifying some fundamental mechanisms of ageing. Until then, the strongest foundation remains remarkably simple: physical activity, nutritious food, adequate sleep, avoidance of tobacco, social connection, preventive healthcare and evidence-based medical care.

The future of longevity may be high-tech.

But healthy ageing starts with habits that are already available today.

Health information in this feature is for general education and should not replace individual medical advice. People considering medicines, supplements, hormone therapies or experimental longevity treatments should discuss them with a qualified healthcare professional.

World Lung Day – 25th September 2026: Mumbai Records 14,396 COPD Deaths, 7,069 Asthma Deaths

 

  Mumbai’s Polluted Air Puts Lung Health at Risk; Experts Urge Citizens to Act Before Breathing Problems Turn Serious 

 

Mumbai | Sept 24- As Mumbai marks World Lung Day on September 25, pulmonologists are drawing attention to the long-term impact of air pollution on respiratory health, particularly from fine particulate matter such as PM2.5. Air-quality data for September 23 showed Mumbai at a moderate level in one CAMS-based city assessment, with an average PM2.5 concentration of 15.4 µg/m³. However, air quality can vary significantly across locations and throughout the day, making individual exposure an important concern.

PM2.5 particles are small enough to penetrate deep into the respiratory system and, with repeated exposure, can contribute to respiratory inflammation and increase the risk of conditions including asthma, COPD and other chronic lung problems. The concern is particularly relevant in a densely populated city where residents are routinely exposed to traffic emissions, construction dust, industrial pollutants and indoor air pollution.

Experts say lung damage does not always announce itself with severe symptoms. Persistent cough, breathlessness, wheezing, chest discomfort or reduced ability to perform routine physical activity can sometimes be early warning signs and should not simply be dismissed as seasonal changes or pollution-related irritation. The World Health Organization estimates that ambient air pollution contributes to approximately 4.2 million premature deaths globally every year, while combined household and outdoor air pollution is associated with nearly 7 million premature deaths annually.

Dr. Sangita Checker, Consultant Pulmonologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road commented on this special day  ““Every breath we take is an interaction between our lungs and the environment around us. Prolonged exposure to polluted air can trigger inflammation and gradually impair lung function, sometimes even before noticeable symptoms appear. What is particularly concerning is that people often normalise a persistent cough or breathlessness as ‘just pollution’ or a seasonal issue. Individuals with asthma, COPD and other respiratory conditions, along with children and older adults, are especially vulnerable. Persistent cough, wheezing, chest tightness, breathlessness or a noticeable reduction in exercise tolerance should never be ignored. On World Lung Day, the focus must shift from treating lung disease to protecting lung health through prevention, early detection and timely medical care. Our lungs work continuously throughout our lives—protecting them must become a daily priority.”

Dr. Parthiv Shah Pulmonologist, Apex Group of Hospitals, Mumbai commented on this day,  “Lung health is no longer a concern limited to smokers or the elderly. In cities like Mumbai, air pollution, traffic emissions, dust and indoor pollutants can silently affect lung function. Persistent cough, breathlessness, wheezing or reduced exercise tolerance should not be ignored, as these may be early signs of respiratory disease. On World Lung Day, we must focus on prevention—avoiding smoking and vaping, reducing exposure to pollutants, staying physically active and seeking timely medical evaluation. Early detection and appropriate treatment can significantly improve long-term lung health and quality of life.”

Mumbai’s respiratory health burden remains a serious concern. BMC data obtained through RTI and reported for 2016–2021 recorded 14,396 COPD deaths, averaging nearly six deaths every day, along with 1,220 deaths from bronchitis and 7,069 deaths attributed to asthma. The burden was particularly high in areas such as M-East (Govandi), which recorded 675 COPD deaths, and K-East (Andheri East), with 971 deaths, highlighting the impact of prolonged exposure to both outdoor and indoor air pollution.

Experts recommend checking air-quality levels before prolonged outdoor activity, avoiding exposure to heavy traffic and visibly polluted areas, using appropriate protective masks when necessary, maintaining good indoor ventilation and avoiding smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke. Regular physical activity, adequate hydration and timely vaccination against relevant respiratory infections can also support overall respiratory health.

11th Ayurveda Day Celebrations to Spotlight Research, Innovation and Global Vision

Nagpur, September 23, 2026: The 11th Ayurveda Day is being observed across India and internationally today, with the Ministry of Ayush focusing on the role of Ayurveda in building a healthier future through scientific evidence, research, innovation and community wellbeing.

The national-level celebrations are being held in Nagpur under the theme “Ayurveda for a Healthier Tomorrow” (स्वस्थ भविष्य के लिए आयुर्वेद). The programme brings together Ayurveda practitioners, researchers, institutions, policymakers and other stakeholders from across the Ayush ecosystem.

A major highlight of the event will be the release of the first-ever Report on the Ayush Services Sector, prepared by the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS). The report is expected to provide an assessment of the sector and offer insights into the evolving landscape of Ayush services.

The celebrations will also feature the launch of Safety Dossiers on Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) and Chandrasura (Lepidium sativum). In addition, Standard Treatment Guidelines for skin disorders will be released as part of efforts to strengthen evidence-based practices and improve the application of Ayurveda in healthcare.

Another key publication to be unveiled is “From Traditional Wisdom to Global Leadership: Ayush Vision 2030”, outlining a longer-term perspective for the development and wider recognition of Ayush systems. A Status Report on Ayush-related Inventions in India will also be launched during the programme.

The event will further introduce the CCRAS–AGNI Assessment Scale Web Portal. The initiative is associated with the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) and the Ayurveda Gyan Naipunya Initiative (AGNI), reflecting the growing emphasis on structured assessment, research and digital platforms within the Ayurveda ecosystem.

Two scientific sessions will form an important part of the celebrations. The first, “Shashwatam to Vishwas – Ayurveda for a Healthier Tomorrow and the Road to 2047,” will examine the future trajectory of Ayurveda and its potential role in India’s long-term health vision.

The second scientific session, “Integrating Therapies is Needed to Reduce NCD Burden by 2027,” will focus on the growing challenge posed by non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and discuss the potential role of integrated therapeutic approaches in addressing the burden.

Senior officials from the Ministry of Ayush, representatives of Ayush councils and institutions, practitioners, researchers and other stakeholders are participating in the celebrations. Events being held across India and overseas are expected to facilitate wider engagement and knowledge sharing.

The 11th Ayurveda Day places particular emphasis on connecting India’s traditional healthcare knowledge with contemporary research and evidence. The initiatives being launched during the celebrations are aimed at supporting research, improving standards, encouraging innovation and expanding the contribution of Ayurveda to community wellbeing.

With Ayurveda Day now being marked on a wider national and international platform, this year’s observance seeks to underline the continuing evolution of Ayurveda while highlighting the importance of evidence-based approaches, scientific collaboration and innovation in shaping its future.

Athulya Senior Care, in Collaboration with Madras Medical College and Athulya Academy, Organises Two-Day Academic Programme on Comprehensive Dementia Care.

 

Programme focuses on strengthening clinical knowledge and practical skills among nursing students, faculty and healthcare professionals

Chennai, Sept 20: Athulya Senior Care, in collaboration with Madras Medical College (MMC) and Athulya Academy, organised a two-day academic programme titled “Comprehensive Dementia Care: Current Concepts, Clinical Skills and Future Directions” on September 18 and 19, 2026, at Athulya Senior Care, Maduravoyal, Chennai. The programme focused on strengthening understanding of dementia care and equipping nurses, nursing faculty, nursing students and healthcare professionals with updated knowledge and practical skills to support older adults living with dementia.

The programme brought together experts from geriatric medicine, neurology, nursing and dementia care, with sessions covering current concepts, clinical approaches and the evolving needs of people living with dementia. The initiative also sought to bridge academic learning with practical caregiving and promote a multidisciplinary approach to dementia care.

The inaugural ceremony was held on September 18 and was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. R. Shankar Shanmugam, Principal, Madras Medical College (MMC), Chennai and Registrar, Tamil Nadu Nurses & Midwives Council, who attended the programme as the Chief Guest.

With dementia cases increasing alongside India’s ageing population, there is a growing need to strengthen the skills and preparedness of healthcare professionals involved in senior care. A national LASI-DAD study estimated that 7.4% of Indians aged 60 and above, or around 8.8 million people, are living with dementia. Against this backdrop, programmes that combine academic learning with clinical and practical insights can play an important role in building a better-trained workforce and strengthening the quality of dementia care in India.

Speaking on the collaboration, Mr. Srinivasan G, Founder & CEO, Athulya Senior Care, said, “Dementia care requires a multidisciplinary approach and well-trained professionals who understand the clinical and emotional needs of seniors. Through this programme, we aim to strengthen knowledge and practical skills while encouraging greater focus on specialised geriatric and dementia care.”

Dr. Nivedha Pathmanathan, Psychiatrist, Athulya Senior Care, added, “Dementia affects much more than memory, often impacting behaviour, communication and everyday life. Strengthening awareness among healthcare professionals can support early recognition, timely intervention and more personalized, compassionate care for seniors and their families.”

The two-day programme included expert-led sessions and practical learning focused on key aspects of dementia care, with perspectives from medical, nursing and mental health professionals. The participation of 60 healthcare professionals provided an opportunity for knowledge exchange and discussion around the evolving requirements of dementia and geriatric care.

 

The programme marks an important step towards strengthening dementia care in India by bringing together academic learning, clinical expertise and practical caregiving perspectives. Through this collaboration, Athulya Senior Care, Madras Medical College and Athulya Academy aim to support the development of skilled healthcare professionals and promote a more informed, multidisciplinary approach to dementia care, ultimately contributing to better care outcomes and improved quality of life for seniors and their families.

Max Hospital, Vaishali launches KTP (Kidney Transplant Program) and Nephrology OPD at Gwalior

One of the leading healthcare providers in the country, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Vaishali, today, launched the Kidney Transplant Program and Nephrology OPD in Gwalior.

The OPDs will be conducted at Max Patient Assistance Center, Shree Diagnostic Pvt Ltd, in Gwalior and will be available to patients on 3^rd Sunday of every month between 11:00 am – 02:00 pm. The launch will make sure that patients are able to book regular appointments for both queries and routine follow-ups related to their kidney and/or overall renal health.

The launch event was held at Hotel Clark Inn, Gwalior and was addressed by Dr Manoj Singhal, Director- Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali. With the introduction of these services, patients across all genders, ages, as well as socio-economic backgrounds, wouldn’t need to travel to other cities and instead, visit OPDs for regular quality medical services.

At the launch, Dr Manoj Singhal, Director- Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, said, “Through the launch of KTP and Nephrology OPD services in Gwalior, the unit would like to extend its medical help and support to the patients here in the city and nearby regions. Offering quality healthcare services along with cutting-edge technology, Max Hospital, Vaishali is already a chosen tertiary care facility for patients from this region.”

With the significant rise in the incidences of renal failure, this is a substantial step taken by Max Healthcare towards ensuring that such patients in the region have easy and speedy access to quality healthcare services.

He further added, “There are various factors due to which there is a rise in the number of individuals being detected with chronic kidney diseases such as regular consumption of alcohol, drug abuse, severe dehydration, unbalanced diet and unmonitored use of painkillers, etc. Therefore, our goal is to ensure efficient management of the disease and availability of specialized medical help in their neighborhood.”

Over In the past years, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali has been actively working towards offering international standards of healthcare facilities in different regions across the country. The leading healthcare player organizes numerous health-camps, OPDs and screening camps for the residents of other regions like Chandausi, Gwalior, Meerut, Kanpur, Moradabad, etc. and its neighboring areas.