6,305 HIV cases reported since 1998, region facing increased risk due to tourism, influx of migrant labourers: Officials The cases of HIV/AIDS are increasing with each passing year in Jammu and Kashmir, as a total of 6,305 patients have tested positive in the region from 1998 until October 2023. A top health official informed the news agency Kashmir News Observer that 1,452 HIV-positive patients have died since 1998 until October 2023, while 3,583 patients are living on Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART). He added that 521 patients have left follow-up. A view…
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Health
Srinagar battles cancer epidemic as cases surge to record levels
Kashmir’s Cancer Crisis: A Deep Dive into the Soaring Numbers Kashmir’s premier healthcare institution, Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Soura, is grappling with a surge in cancer cases that has sent shockwaves through the region. Over 4,000 new cases were registered in 2023 alone, adding to the staggering tally of 44,112 cases since 2014. This alarming trend is evident in the yearly statistics, with a steady rise from 3,940 cases in 2014 to 5,294 in 2022. The Tip of the Iceberg: Underreporting and Out-of-Region Treatment These figures may not…
Read MoreUnlocking Nature’s Healing Touch: A Comprehensive Guide to Herbs and Spices for Natural Blood Pressure Management
Harnessing Nature’s Bounty for Natural Blood Pressure Management By : Javid Amin In the relentless pursuit of holistic health, the realm of herbs and spices emerges as a treasure trove for managing hypertension, the silent adversary affecting millions worldwide. While pharmaceutical interventions are prevalent, delving into the richness of nature’s pharmacy offers an intriguing avenue for promoting cardiovascular well-being. Embark on a journey through these 11 herbs and spices celebrated for their profound properties: 1. Garlic: The Heart’s Ally Key Compound: Allicin Mechanism: Promotes vasodilation, relaxing blood vessels, enhancing blood…
Read MoreUptick in Respiratory Infections Blamed on Chilled Weather; Physicians Advise Precautions
In the wake of a recent advisory issued by the Centre regarding a surge in respiratory illnesses in China, doctors in Kashmir have assured the public that the increase in such cases in the region is primarily due to cold weather and not a cause for panic. Amid reports of an uptick in respiratory illnesses among children in northern China, the Government of India (GoI) is closely monitoring the situation. The Centre stressed that there is no need for alarm and emphasised that the current spike in respiratory cases in…
Read MoreYoung Adults’ Bone Health May Be at Risk Due to COVID-19 Pandemic, Study Suggests
Lifestyle changes during the pandemic may have contributed to the lower bone mineral density and total bone mineral content, the researchers said. Covid might have negatively impacted bone tissues of young patients, including both bone mineral density in the forearm and total bone mineral content, according to a new research. Assessing people during the pandemic and before, researchers at Comenius University, Slovakia, found that the disease caused a significant bone mineral density decrease in young adults. (Also read | Covid-19 antibodies making dengue more severe, says study; what experts say)…
Read MoreShielding Your Lungs from Winter’s Pneumonia Grip: Essential Lifestyle Habits
Winter season can catch you off guard with its many health risks including pneumonia. Strengthen your lung health with these essential tips. Winter season brings with it a pleasant nip in the air but could trigger onset of certain illnesses in vulnerable population. As the mercury drops, a rise in pneumonia cases is reported and people who have existing lung issues like COPD, asthma, low immunity or chronic diseases such as diabetes or blood pressure are doubly at risk and must exercise caution around this time of the year. Pneumonia…
Read MoreErratic Power Supply Causing Mental Health Concerns among Residents
Nowadays, Kashmiris are facing a dual challenge: battling the harsh cold and coping with the mental health effects of frequent power cuts and electricity shortages. The continued power cuts have caused a wave of anxiety and unnecessary stress for the local populace. During the winter months, Kashmir experiences widespread power outages, often leaving homes and businesses without electricity for days together. The situation is particularly dire in Srinagar downtown and many rural pockets, where power cuts have become an unwelcome norm. “We are used to power cuts, but these seem…
Read MoreUnmasking the Hidden Threat: Decoding the Indicators of High Cholesterol
Cracking the Code: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding, Preventing, and Managing High Cholesterol By : Javid Amin Cholesterol, often perceived as a villain lurking in our blood vessels, is a complex player in the symphony of bodily functions. While it’s crucial for cell structure and hormone synthesis, an imbalance can set the stage for a silent and potentially dangerous intruder – high cholesterol. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify high cholesterol, offering insights into its mechanisms, the importance of early detection, preventive measures, and effective management strategies. Understanding Cholesterol: A…
Read MoreKashmir Faces Diabetes Epidemic as Half of Cases Go Undetected
Diabetes is becoming a major public health concern in Kashmir, with an estimated prevalence of 10%, higher than the national average of 8%. This alarming trend is compounded by the fact that half of the people affected by the disease are unaware they have it. Dr. Nazir Pala, a leading endocrinologist in Kashmir, expressed deep concern over the growing diabetes epidemic and the lack of awareness among the population. He emphasized that many people with diabetes are unaware of the symptoms and only come to know about it when they…
Read MoreDiabetes and Obesity Among Young Adults: A Professional Perspective
Diabetes and obesity are two of the most pressing public health challenges facing young adults today. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the estimated prevalence of diabetes in India is 10.1 crores, with abdominal obesity affecting 35 crores. These staggering numbers highlight the urgent need to address the root causes of this growing epidemic and develop effective prevention strategies. Dr. Himika Chawla, a renowned endocrinologist and metabolism specialist at AIIMS, attributes the rise in diabetes and obesity among young adults to a number of factors, including: Sedentary…
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