Category Archives: Health

McAfee Study Finds 66 Percent of Indians Have Faced Health and Wellness Scams

India, June 23: As health and wellness content continues to dominate online conversations, new research from McAfee reveals a growing wave of scams, misinformation, and AI-generated deception targeting Indian consumers. The findings highlight how scammers are increasingly exploiting trust in influencers, wellness trends, and emerging AI technologies to spread misleading health advice and fraudulent schemes.

McAfee research reveals that 71% of India especially young adults are being targeted by health scams which are increasingly engineered to exploit urgency, trust, and everyday online behavior. Nearly one-third of Indians surveyed reported being pushed to take immediate action through tactics such as visiting a website promoted in an ad (31%), clicking links shared via social media or messaging apps (31%), downloading an app or file (26%), or scanning a QR code (23%).

The scams themselves are becoming increasingly sophisticated and wide-ranging from fake weight-loss or fitness products (23%) and misleading information about diseases or medical products (20%), to fake supplements or vitamins (18%) and fraudulent medical treatments or “cures” (18%). Consumers are also encountering impersonation scams involving healthcare providers or pharmacies (13%) and even government health agencies (10%), underscoring how cybercriminals are blending health misinformation with social engineering tactics to make scams appear more credible, urgent, and difficult to detect.

“Health and wellness have become a bigger part of people’s daily lives online, but so have the risks,” said Pratim Mukherjee, Senior Director of Engineering, McAfee India. “Scammers are getting better at making fake health advice, products, and offers look credible, especially as AI makes these scams easier to create and harder to spot. That’s why it’s so important for Consumers to pause, verify information through trusted sources, and think twice before clicking suspicious links or offers.”

Social Media Remains the Epicenter of Health Advice and Health Scams

Health scams are no longer confined to suspicious websites or spam emails. They are increasingly appearing across social media feeds, messaging apps, online advertisements, and influencer-led content.

• 64% of Indians surveyed encounter health or wellness advice on social media at least weekly
• More than one-third (34%) of people surveyed encounter health advice daily or multiple times per day on social media
• Social media is also the #1 place people surveyed encounter health scams (53%), followed by messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram (37%), phone calls (33%), websites or online ads (30%), email (26%), online marketplaces (24%), text messages (23%), and in-person interactions (19%)

Influencers Continue to Shape Health Decisions

Misinformation is increasingly exploiting the trust consumers place in celebrities and influencers, making manipulated health content appear more credible and authentic. In fact, 55% of Indians say celebrity or influencer endorsements impact their likelihood to trust health advice, highlighting how scammers are leveraging emotional trust, credibility, and social influence to make misleading wellness claims appear authentic and believable.

• More than half of Indians surveyed (54%) say they have seen health or wellness content that appeared to be endorsed by a celebrity or public figure and was later revealed or suspected to be fake, misleading, or AI-generated
• Among those who have encountered celebrity or influencer-endorsed health content, the leading platforms are YouTube (68%), Instagram (67%), Facebook (43%), social media advertisements (42%), online ads or sponsored posts (30%), X/Twitter (25%), messaging apps (22%), websites or blogs (19%), Snapchat (18%), traditional media (16%), email (15%), and text messages (13%)
• 66% of 25–34-year-olds have seen fake or suspicious celebrity-linked health content

How to Protect Yourself from Health & Wellness Scams

McAfee helps consumers fight back by combining digital education with proactive AI protection. Its technology scans text, QR codes, and websites to flag phishing and scams before they cause harm-helping consumers verify what’s real before they click, share, or buy.

McAfee’s Top Tips to Stay Safe Online:

• Protect Your Privacy: Limit how much personal data you share.
• Automate Safety: Use AI-powered scam protection tools to block threats before they reach you.
• Keep Funds Secure: Never send money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency to someone you haven’t met in person.
• Flag Red Flags: Avoid sudden requests involving QR codes, instant payments, or verification codes.

Consumer Research Methodology

A McAfee survey focused on online scams and their impact on consumers, was conducted online in January 2026. A total of 7,000 adults globally participated, including 1,000 adults age 18+ in India.

Preventive Health Measures Could Deliver Massive Global Savings: WEF

New Delhi, June 23, 2026: Investing in simple preventive healthcare measures could help the world save nearly USD 6 trillion by 2040, according to a World Economic Forum (WEF) report.

The report highlights that shifting focus from treating diseases to preventing them can significantly reduce long-term healthcare costs while improving overall public health outcomes. It notes that early diagnosis, routine health check-ups, vaccinations, healthier lifestyles, and timely medical interventions can help avoid the progression of serious and costly illnesses.

According to the findings, a large share of global healthcare expenditure is driven by chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory disorders. Many of these conditions can be managed more effectively—or even prevented—through early action and consistent primary healthcare support.

The WEF report further emphasizes that preventive healthcare not only reduces pressure on healthcare systems but also improves workforce productivity and quality of life. Healthier populations are likely to contribute more effectively to economic growth, reducing absenteeism and long-term medical dependency.

Experts suggest that stronger primary healthcare networks, increased public awareness, and greater investment in digital health tools such as telemedicine and early screening technologies will be key to achieving these outcomes.

The report also calls for collaboration between governments, private sector players, and healthcare providers to build systems that prioritize prevention alongside treatment.

Overall, the findings underline a clear message: investing in preventive healthcare today could lead to substantial economic savings and healthier societies in the decades ahead.

Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital, Powai Celebrates International Yoga Day 2026

Mumbai, June 23 : Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital, Powai celebrated International Yoga Day 2026, themed “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” with a series of wellness initiatives, including a special yoga session at the hospital and a community yoga programme at Ghatkopar Metro Station. The celebrations commenced on June 20 with a special yoga session at the hospital involving Mumbai Traffic Police personnel, promoting physical and mental well-being among frontline workers. On June 21, the hospital extended the celebrations to the community through a large-scale yoga programme at Ghatkopar Metro Station, bringing together people across age groups to embrace yoga as a way of achieving better health, flexibility, mindfulness and overall well-being.

Certified male and female yoga instructors conducted guided sessions focusing on balance, strength, breathing techniques and mental wellness. The initiative witnessed enthusiastic participation from commuters and residents alike, creating a vibrant atmosphere dedicated to healthy living. The yoga sessions at the metro station complemented the hospital’s employee and Traffic Police engagement held a day earlier, underscoring the importance of incorporating wellness practices into everyday life and making yoga accessible to all sections of society.

India is home to one of the world’s largest working populations, and increasingly sedentary lifestyles, long working hours, stress and lack of physical activity have contributed to a growing burden of lifestyle disorders such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. As preventive healthcare gains importance, yoga has emerged as a simple yet powerful practice that promotes physical fitness, improves flexibility, reduces stress and supports mental well-being. Incorporating yoga into daily life is essential not only for healthy ageing but also for preventing chronic diseases and fostering a healthier and more productive society.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sameer Kulkarni, CEO, Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital, Powai, said,

 “Healthy ageing is not only about adding years to life, but adding life to years. Yoga is one of the most powerful and accessible ways to maintain physical fitness, mental clarity and emotional balance at every stage of life. Through these International Yoga Day initiatives, we aim to encourage people across generations to embrace yoga as a part of their daily routine and adopt a preventive approach towards long-term health and wellness.”

The celebrations reflected the hospital’s continued commitment to community well-being through awareness-led initiatives that encourage active lifestyles, disease prevention and overall wellness. By taking yoga beyond conventional spaces and into the community, Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital seeks to inspire individuals to make healthy and mindful living an integral part of their everyday lives.

International Yoga Day Celebrations Spotlight “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”

June 22: The global observance of International Yoga Day witnessed widespread participation this year, with the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing” gaining momentum across countries, communities, and wellness platforms.

Events, workshops, and mass yoga sessions were organised in multiple regions to promote physical wellbeing, mental balance, and holistic health through traditional yoga practices. The initiative highlighted the growing global recognition of yoga as a tool for improving quality of life, particularly among older populations.

The celebrations brought together practitioners, instructors, and wellness enthusiasts who demonstrated various yoga asanas and breathing techniques aimed at enhancing flexibility, strength, and mental clarity. Special sessions were also conducted focusing on preventive healthcare and age-friendly wellness routines.

Organisers emphasised the importance of incorporating yoga into daily lifestyles to support healthy ageing and improve overall wellbeing. The theme encouraged individuals across age groups to adopt sustainable health practices rooted in mindfulness and physical activity.

The observance reflected yoga’s expanding global footprint, with increasing participation from diverse cultures and communities. It also underscored the role of yoga in promoting harmony between physical health and mental wellness.

International Yoga Day continues to serve as a platform for spreading awareness about the benefits of yoga, with this year’s celebrations reinforcing its relevance in addressing modern health challenges and supporting lifelong wellbeing.

Bank of India celebrated 12th International Day of Yoga

Mumbai, June 22: 12th International Day of Yoga was celebrated by Bank of India with all zeal and enthusiasm on 21st June 2026. Mass Yoga Demonstrations based on Government’s Common Yoga Protocol (CYP)with theme of Yoga for healthy ageing was organized at all Zonal Offices across the Nation and overseas centres, where bank’s staff and customers participated in huge numbers. The programme organized at Bank’s Head Office at BKC, Mumbai was led by Shri Rajneesh Karnatak, Managing Director & CEO with active participation by Executive Directors, Chief Vigilance officer, Chief General Managers, General Managers and staff members.  Yoga Demonstration at Head Office was conducted by Ms. Kanchan Bhosale, a renowned Yoga teacher of Mumbai.

Shri Rajneesh Karnatak, the Managing Director and CEO in his address stated that “Yoga is not just a physical exercise but a holistic practice that promotes mental clarity, physical strength, and spiritual growth. This event is our way of encouraging everyone to experience the transformative power of yoga.” He further requested all the participants to make Yoga their life style and propagate the same among their family, friends, colleagues and customers. He opined that, Yoga, an ancient Indian tradition, has transcended borders and has become a global phenomenon. Its significance lies not only in the physical postures and exercises but also in the profound impact it has on our mental and spiritual well-being.

World Sickle Cell Day 2026: From “Closing the Survival Gap” to a New Era of Cure, Care and Equity

Every year on June 19, the world observes World Sickle Cell Day—but in 2026, the conversation feels different. It is no longer limited to awareness alone. It is now about urgency, equity, and a rapidly evolving medical future.

The official theme for World Sickle Cell Day 2026 is:

“Closing the Survival Gap: Equity in Sickle Cell Disease”

This theme captures a critical truth: survival should not depend on geography, income, or access to healthcare. It calls for a world where early diagnosis, advanced treatment, and continuous care are available to every patient—not just a privileged few.

A Disease at the Centre of Inequality and Innovation

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder where red blood cells become rigid and sickle-shaped, blocking normal blood flow. This leads to severe pain episodes, anaemia, organ damage, and lifelong health complications.

Globally, over 300,000 babies are born with SCD every year, with the highest burden in low- and middle-income countries.

India carries one of the heaviest burdens worldwide, particularly affecting Scheduled Tribes and underserved communities, where delayed diagnosis and limited healthcare access continue to shape outcomes.

Yet, 2026 marks a turning point—where science, policy, and public health are beginning to converge.

From Hope to Reality: The Rise of Gene-Based Cures

For decades, sickle cell disease was managed, not cured. That is now changing.

Gene Therapy: Rewriting the Disease Itself

One of the most significant breakthroughs is CRISPR-based gene therapy, including treatments like Casgevy. This approach modifies a patient’s own stem cells so the body can produce healthy haemoglobin.

For the first time, medicine is not only treating symptoms—but addressing the genetic root cause.

Stem Cell Transplant: The Established Cure

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (bone marrow transplant) remains the only established curative option today. While limited by donor availability and eligibility, it has transformed outcomes for many children worldwide.

Targeted Medicines: Turning a Fatal Cycle into a Manageable Condition

Modern therapies are reshaping daily life for patients:

• Voxelotor – improves anaemia by preventing red blood cell sickling
• Crizanlizumab – reduces painful crisis frequency
• L-Glutamine – lowers oxidative stress in cells
• Hydroxyurea – long-standing therapy that increases fetal haemoglobin

Together, these treatments are reducing hospitalisation, improving quality of life, and extending life expectancy.

India’s National Mission: Screening at Scale, Saving Lives Early

India has launched the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission, targeting elimination of the disease as a public health problem by 2047.

Its core focus includes:

• Mass screening in high-burden districts
• Distribution of Sickle Cell Identity Cards
• Early diagnosis and treatment linkage
• Creation of digital patient tracking systems

Large-scale outreach programmes in tribal and rural regions are identifying cases earlier than ever before—often before symptoms become severe.

The Survival Gap: Why Theme 2026 Matters

The theme “Closing the Survival Gap” is not symbolic—it reflects real-world inequality.

Two children with the same disease may have entirely different futures depending on:

• How early they are diagnosed
• Whether treatment is accessible
• Whether their families are informed

This gap is what global health systems are now being challenged to eliminate.

Prevention Begins Before Birth: The Power of Genetic Awareness

One of the most important yet overlooked aspects of SCD is the sickle cell trait.

• Carriers usually have no symptoms
• But they can pass the gene to children
• If both parents are carriers, there is a 25% risk of disease in the child

This makes pre-marital and pre-pregnancy screening essential, especially in high-risk regions.

Awareness here is not optional—it is preventive medicine.

Everyday Management: Small Actions, Lifelong Impact

Even with advanced treatment, daily care remains essential:

 Medical Support

• Vaccinations and infection prevention
• Daily antibiotics in young children (as prescribed)
• Folic acid supplementation

Lifestyle Protection

• Proper hydration
• Avoiding extreme temperatures
• Early response to pain episodes

These steps reduce complications and improve long-term stability.

A New Healthcare Ecosystem Emerging

Beyond treatment, India is building a structured ecosystem through:

• National Health Mission screening portals
• Community outreach camps
• Tribal health initiatives
• Genetic counselling expansion

The goal is not just treatment—but continuity of care from birth to adulthood.

Conclusion: From Awareness to Equity, From Equity to Cure

World Sickle Cell Day 2026 marks a rare moment in global health—where science is advancing rapidly, and policy is beginning to align with need.

The theme “Closing the Survival Gap: Equity in Sickle Cell Disease” is both a promise and a challenge.

Because today, the question is no longer whether sickle cell disease can be understood.

It is whether every child—regardless of where they are born—can access:

• Early screening
• Timely treatment
• And, one day, a cure

The tools are now available. The systems are being built. The responsibility is collective.

And the message is clear:

A survival gap that can be closed must not be allowed to remain open.

World Blood Donor Day Celebrated at Jeypore; Kotpad’s Tulasi Das Nayak Honoured

Kotpad/Jeypore: World Blood Donor Day was celebrated at the District Headquarters Hospital in Jeypore with great enthusiasm. The event was attended by the Sub-Collector, the Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO), and other dignitaries, who felicitated voluntary blood donors from different parts of the district for their invaluable contribution to saving lives.

Among those honoured was Tulasi Das Nayak, popularly known as Nini Babu, a prominent blood donor from Kotpad. Young blood donor Rabindra Sahu also participated in the programme and extended his support to the initiative.

Tulasi Das Nayak is widely respected in the Kotpad region for his dedication to voluntary blood donation and humanitarian service. Whenever there is an urgent need for blood, residents often reach out to him for assistance. Over the years, he has actively encouraged and motivated young people to come forward and donate blood, emphasizing that blood donation is one of the noblest acts of service to humanity.

His selfless commitment has inspired many youths in the region to participate in blood donation drives and social welfare activities. Community members praised his efforts, noting that his example has helped create greater awareness about the importance of voluntary blood donation.

The event concluded with a renewed appeal to citizens, especially the younger generation, to donate blood regularly and contribute towards saving lives in times of medical emergencies.

The Importance of Pregnancy Pillows and Quality Sleep During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a remarkable journey that brings significant physical and emotional changes to a woman’s body. As the baby grows, maintaining a comfortable sleeping position becomes increasingly challenging. Many expectant mothers experience sleep disturbances caused by back pain, hip discomfort, frequent urination, heartburn, and the growing weight of the baby bump. This is where pregnancy pillows play a vital role in promoting better sleep and overall well-being.

Why Sleep Matters During Pregnancy

Quality sleep is essential throughout pregnancy. During sleep, the body undergoes important restorative processes that support both maternal health and fetal development. Adequate rest helps regulate hormones, strengthen the immune system, improve mood, and reduce stress levels.

Research has shown that poor sleep during pregnancy may be linked to increased risks of gestational hypertension, prolonged labor, and postpartum fatigue. Sleep deprivation can also affect mental health, leading to increased anxiety and emotional stress.

Common Sleep Challenges During Pregnancy

As pregnancy progresses, women often face several sleep-related challenges, including:

• Lower back and pelvic pain

• Hip and joint discomfort

• Frequent bathroom visits

• Heartburn and indigestion

• Leg cramps

• Difficulty finding a comfortable sleeping position

• Anxiety and stress about childbirth

These issues become more pronounced during the second and third trimesters, making supportive sleep solutions increasingly important.

What Is a Pregnancy Pillow?

A pregnancy pillow is specially designed to support the changing contours of a pregnant woman’s body. Unlike standard pillows, pregnancy pillows provide targeted support to the belly, back, hips, knees, and neck, helping maintain proper spinal alignment and reducing pressure points.

These pillows come in various shapes, including U-shaped, C-shaped, J-shaped, and wedge pillows, each offering different levels of support depending on individual needs.

Benefits of Using a Pregnancy Pillow

1. Improved Sleep Quality

Pregnancy pillows help women find a comfortable sleeping position more easily, reducing tossing and turning throughout the night. Better support often leads to deeper and more restful sleep.

2. Reduced Back and Hip Pain

By supporting the abdomen and aligning the spine, pregnancy pillows help alleviate strain on the lower back, hips, and pelvis. This can significantly reduce discomfort, especially during the later stages of pregnancy.

3. Enhanced Blood Circulation

Healthcare professionals often recommend sleeping on the left side during pregnancy. Pregnancy pillows make it easier to maintain this position, promoting optimal blood flow to the uterus, placenta, and baby.

4. Better Support for the Growing Belly

As the baby grows, the abdomen places additional strain on muscles and ligaments. Pregnancy pillows gently support the bump, reducing tension and improving comfort.

5. Reduced Pressure on Joints

Positioning the pillow between the knees and along the body helps distribute weight evenly, reducing pressure on the hips, knees, and joints.

6. Comfort Beyond Pregnancy

Many pregnancy pillows continue to be useful after childbirth. They can provide support during breastfeeding, postpartum recovery, and even general relaxation.

Why Side Sleeping Is Recommended

Medical experts generally recommend sleeping on the left side during pregnancy, particularly after the first trimester. This position helps improve blood circulation and reduces pressure on major blood vessels.

Benefits of left-side sleeping include:

• Improved blood flow to the baby

• Better kidney function

• Reduced swelling in the feet and ankles

• Improved oxygen and nutrient delivery to the fetus

Pregnancy pillows make maintaining this position easier and more comfortable throughout the night.

Types of Pregnancy Pillows

U-Shaped Pillow

Provides full-body support for the head, neck, back, belly, and legs. Ideal for women who frequently change positions during sleep.

C-Shaped Pillow

Offers support to the head, back, belly, and knees while taking up less bed space than U-shaped designs.

J-Shaped Pillow

Supports the head and body while offering targeted belly support. Suitable for side sleepers seeking a more compact option.

Wedge Pillow

A smaller pillow designed to support specific areas such as the belly or lower back. It is portable and travel-friendly.

Tips for Better Pregnancy Sleep

In addition to using a pregnancy pillow, expectant mothers can improve sleep quality by:

• Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule

• Sleeping on the left side whenever possible

• Avoiding caffeine late in the day

• Keeping the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet

• Engaging in light physical activity with medical approval

• Following a relaxing bedtime routine

• Limiting screen time before bed

Conclusion

A good night’s sleep is one of the most valuable gifts an expectant mother can give herself and her growing baby. Pregnancy pillows are more than just comfort accessories—they are practical tools that help reduce pain, improve sleep quality, support healthy circulation, and promote overall maternal well-being.

As pregnancy advances and physical changes become more noticeable, investing in a quality pregnancy pillow can make a significant difference in comfort and rest. Better sleep contributes to a healthier pregnancy, improved energy levels, and a more positive experience for both mother and baby.

42-year-old Man from London Travels 8,000 Kilometres to Bengaluru for Affordable, Advanced Dental Care

Bangalore, June 18: Happiest Pearls Dental Clinic has successfully treated 42-year-old John Miller from London, who travelled to Bengaluru seeking affordable, high-quality care for a complex dental condition involving cysts around his upper front teeth that had weakened the surrounding bone and affected his oral health. Under the care of Dr. Samuel Shadrack Surender, Deputy Director, Happiest Pearls he underwent a six-week treatment journey involving cyst removal, bone grafting, root canal treatment and dental restoration, helping him regain normal oral function and return home with renewed confidence.

For John, the decision to travel thousands of kilometres from the UK to India was driven by the need for specialised treatment that combined clinical expertise, advanced technology and affordability. After exploring various options, he chose Happiest Pearls for its reputation in handling complex dental and reconstructive cases.

When he arrived at the clinic, doctors diagnosed cysts around his upper front teeth that had weakened the surrounding jawbone. The treatment was carefully planned in stages and involved removal of the cysts, bone grafting using bovine bone material to strengthen the affected area, root canal treatment to eliminate infection, and restoration of the teeth with custom-made zirconia crowns. The treatment helped restore both function and aesthetics while preserving the natural teeth.

Over the course of approximately one-and-a-half months, the treatment progressed successfully with a focus on comfort, long-term stability and restoring his quality of life. Today, he is able to eat, speak and carry out everyday activities comfortably, something that had become increasingly challenging before treatment.

Dr. Samuel Shadrack Surender,Deputy Director, Happiest Pearls said 

“This was a complex case that required careful planning and a multidisciplinary approach. Our objective was not only to treat the cyst but also to rebuild the jaw and restore normal function. Seeing a patient return to their daily life with confidence is always the most rewarding outcome.” 

Sharing his experience, John Miller said,

“Travelling from London to Bengaluru for treatment was a big decision, but it proved to be the right one. The care and support I received at Happiest Pearls were exceptional throughout my treatment journey. Today, I can eat, speak and smile comfortably again, and I am incredibly grateful to Dr. Samuel for his expertise and care. I also thank Dr. Sarah Isaac for the cleaning and whitening procedures, and the nursing team for their constant support and compassion throughout the treatment.”

At Happiest Pearls Dental Clinic, the team remains committed to making advanced, patient-friendly dental care accessible across age groups, with a strong focus on comfort, dignity and quality of life. Through personalised treatment approaches and minimally invasive techniques, the clinic aims to help patients of all ages smile, eat and live with greater confidence.Top of Form

Jan Aushadhi Kendras Cross 19,200 Mark Nationwide, Expanding Affordable Healthcare Access

New Delhi, June 18: The number of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) has increased to over 19,200 across the country, rising sharply from just 84 in 2014, the Government of India said on Wednesday.

The expansion reflects a significant scale-up of the affordable healthcare initiative aimed at improving access to quality generic medicines for citizens at lower costs.

Officials said the Jan Aushadhi scheme is designed to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure by providing medicines at prices significantly lower than branded alternatives while maintaining quality standards approved by regulatory authorities.

The scheme has expanded its reach across urban and rural areas, including remote and underserved regions, ensuring wider availability of essential medicines through dedicated retail outlets.

Health officials noted that the growth in Kendras has contributed to increasing awareness and acceptance of generic medicines among patients, helping to improve affordability in healthcare delivery.

The government reiterated its commitment to further strengthening the network of Jan Aushadhi Kendras to ensure that essential medicines remain accessible and affordable to all sections of society.