Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Rising Norovirus Cases In UK Force NHS To Shut Wards; What You Can Do to Stay Safe?

The United Kingdom is witnessing an alarming surge in norovirus infections that has led the National Health Service (NHS) to take extreme action. With multiple wards at Bedford Hospital in the Highlands shutting their doors to new admissions and restricting visitors, the outbreak has rapidly grown into a public health issue that has echoed far beyond British shores. Health officials and epidemiologists are cautioning that this could be just the start of a second wave of infections—fueled by changing viral strains and a lack of population immunity.

As health systems around the world continue to struggle with pandemic fatigue and systemic strain, the norovirus comeback provides a timely reminder: hygiene, surveillance, and public awareness are still pillars of infectious disease prevention.

The Bedford Hospital outbreak is not unique. As reported by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), norovirus cases have increased dramatically since February, hitting record levels since the agency started collecting comparative data in 2014. NHS England said hospitalizations for the virus have jumped to an average of 1,134 patients per day—nearly twice as many as the same time last year.

The GII.17 strain, which was the predominant genotype for the first half of the winter, comprised 59% of cases reported. Its prevalence fell from 76% in November, however, and was replaced by the GII.4 strain, which increased from 10% to 29% over the past three months. The shift in strains may imply that people who were infected with one strain remain susceptible to another, making containment and immunity difficult.

Traditionally referred to as the "winter vomiting bug," norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes acute gastroenteritis or inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It infects others quickly through food, water, surfaces, and contact with other people. Typical symptoms include sudden nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, cramping of the abdomen, and sometimes low-grade fever, aches, and headaches.

Unlike influenza, norovirus does not yield to antiviral drugs. It typically lasts for 1–3 days, but the illness can be particularly severe in young children, older adults, and those with compromised immune systems because of the danger of dehydration.

<h2>Why Are Hospital Wards Being Shut?</h2>

Bedford Hospital's action in closing off affected wards and restricting visiting is in line with the high transmissibility of norovirus, especially in closed settings such as hospitals and care homes. Amy Douglas, UKHSA Lead Epidemiologist, emphasized that the presence of several genotypes simultaneously raises the risk of reinfection, placing a further burden on already overcrowded hospitals running with 95.3% adult beds in use.

Saffron Cordery, NHS Providers' acting chief executive, shared the concern, pointing to high pressure on emergency services, loss of paramedic hours due to ambulance handover delays, and delays in discharging clinically ready patients—a perfect storm that could overwhelm the system.

While the outbreak at present is focal in the UK, the potential for international spread is considerable. The characteristics of international travel, climate fluctuations, and high-density urban living allow norovirus to spread freely across borders. Based on estimates, for each laboratory-confirmed case in the UK, there are around 288 unreported community cases, suggesting a possible national burden of more than 3 million cases per year.

This is a cause for concern for health authorities across the globe. Outbreaks in closed and semi-closed settings such as schools, cruise ships, nursing homes, and healthcare facilities can lead to rapid spread and high absenteeism.

<h2>How to Protect Yourself and Stay Safe?</h2>

Although there is no vaccine available for norovirus at the moment, there are definite measures that one can take to reduce risk:

<h4>1. Prioritize Proper Handwashing</h4>

Hand sanitizers work very poorly on norovirus. Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water, particularly after going to the toilet, after handling dirty diapers, and before preparing food or eating.

<h4>2. Do Not Prepare Food if You Are Sick</h4>

In case you are vomiting or experiencing diarrhoea, avoid handling food for others for a period of at least 48 hours after your symptoms have ceased. This is when you're most contagious still.

Use bleach-based cleaners to clean kitchen counters, bathroom faucets, and high-touch surfaces. Norovirus lasts for days on surfaces if not sanitized.

As a student, employee, or caregiver, it's imperative you quarantine yourself for a minimum of 48 hours after the symptoms have disappeared to avoid infecting others.

Vomiting and diarrhoea can lead to rapid dehydration. Increase fluid intake with water, oral rehydration salts, or electrolyte drinks. Watch for signs of severe dehydration—dry mouth, dizziness, and low urine output—and seek medical attention if they occur.

<h2>What Are Authorities Doing About It?</h2>

The UK government is taking preventative measures, such as introducing RSV vaccination campaigns and new hospital guidelines. Experts, however, say that in the absence of public compliance and hygiene awareness, such outbreaks can become the norm.

NHS England's National Medical Director, Professor Sir Stephen Powis, appealed to the public to use NHS 111 and its website for non-emergency questions to take the strain off emergency departments.

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting recognized the continued pressure and reconfirmed the government's promise to reform the system: "These figures indicate that we are not yet out of the winter woods yet."

The surge of norovirus infections in the UK is a stark reminder of how rapidly an infection that's seasonal can quickly become a national health issue. It demands increased vigilance about hygiene, infection control, and healthcare system strength—not only in the UK but everywhere.

Health Conditions A-Z

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norovirus outbreak uk

nhs ward closures

gii.4 norovirus strain

norovirus symptoms

how to prevent norovirus

norovirus hospital cases

ukhsa norovirus update

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The United Kingdom is witnessing an alarming surge in norovirus infections that has led the National Health Service (NHS) to take extreme action. With multiple wards at Bedford Hospital in the Highlands shutting their doors to new admissions and restricting visitors, the outbreak has rapidly grown into a public health issue that has echoed far beyond British shores. Health officials and epidemiologists are cautioning that this could be just the start of a second wave of infections—fueled by changing viral strains and a lack of population immunity.As health systems around the world continue to struggle with pandemic fatigue and systemic strain, the norovirus comeback provides a timely reminder: hygiene, surveillance, and public awareness are still pillars of infectious disease prevention.The Bedford Hospital outbreak is not unique. As reported by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), norovirus cases have increased dramatically since February, hitting record levels since the agency started collecting comparative data in 2014. NHS England said hospitalizations for the virus have jumped to an average of 1,134 patients per day—nearly twice as many as the same time last year.The GII.17 strain, which was the predominant genotype for the first half of the winter, comprised 59% of cases reported. Its prevalence fell from 76% in November, however, and was replaced by the GII.4 strain, which increased from 10% to 29% over the past three months. The shift in strains may imply that people who were infected with one strain remain susceptible to another, making containment and immunity difficult.What Is Norovirus?Traditionally referred to as the "winter vomiting bug," norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes acute gastroenteritis or inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It infects others quickly through food, water, surfaces, and contact with other people. Typical symptoms include sudden nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, cramping of the abdomen, and sometimes low-grade fever, aches, and headaches.Unlike influenza, norovirus does not yield to antiviral drugs. It typically lasts for 1–3 days, but the illness can be particularly severe in young children, older adults, and those with compromised immune systems because of the danger of dehydration.Why Are Hospital Wards Being Shut?Bedford Hospital's action in closing off affected wards and restricting visiting is in line with the high transmissibility of norovirus, especially in closed settings such as hospitals and care homes. Amy Douglas, UKHSA Lead Epidemiologist, emphasized that the presence of several genotypes simultaneously raises the risk of reinfection, placing a further burden on already overcrowded hospitals running with 95.3% adult beds in use.Saffron Cordery, NHS Providers' acting chief executive, shared the concern, pointing to high pressure on emergency services, loss of paramedic hours due to ambulance handover delays, and delays in discharging clinically ready patients—a perfect storm that could overwhelm the system.While the outbreak at present is focal in the UK, the potential for international spread is considerable. The characteristics of international travel, climate fluctuations, and high-density urban living allow norovirus to spread freely across borders. Based on estimates, for each laboratory-confirmed case in the UK, there are around 288 unreported community cases, suggesting a possible national burden of more than 3 million cases per year.This is a cause for concern for health authorities across the globe. Outbreaks in closed and semi-closed settings such as schools, cruise ships, nursing homes, and healthcare facilities can lead to rapid spread and high absenteeism.How to Protect Yourself and Stay Safe?Although there is no vaccine available for norovirus at the moment, there are definite measures that one can take to reduce risk:1. Prioritize Proper HandwashingHand sanitizers work very poorly on norovirus. Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water, particularly after going to the toilet, after handling dirty diapers, and before preparing food or eating.2. Do Not Prepare Food if You Are SickIn case you are vomiting or experiencing diarrhoea, avoid handling food for others for a period of at least 48 hours after your symptoms have ceased. This is when you're most contagious still.3. Sanitize Surfaces ProperlyUse bleach-based cleaners to clean kitchen counters, bathroom faucets, and high-touch surfaces. Norovirus lasts for days on surfaces if not sanitized.4. Stay Home If You're SickAs a student, employee, or caregiver, it's imperative you quarantine yourself for a minimum of 48 hours after the symptoms have disappeared to avoid infecting others.5. Stay HydratedVomiting and diarrhoea can lead to rapid dehydration. Increase fluid intake with water, oral rehydration salts, or electrolyte drinks. Watch for signs of severe dehydration—dry mouth, dizziness, and low urine output—and seek medical attention if they occur.What Are Authorities Doing About It?The UK government is taking preventative measures, such as introducing RSV vaccination campaigns and new hospital guidelines. Experts, however, say that in the absence of public compliance and hygiene awareness, such outbreaks can become the norm.NHS England's National Medical Director, Professor Sir Stephen Powis, appealed to the public to use NHS 111 and its website for non-emergency questions to take the strain off emergency departments.Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting recognized the continued pressure and reconfirmed the government's promise to reform the system: "These figures indicate that we are not yet out of the winter woods yet."The surge of norovirus infections in the UK is a stark reminder of how rapidly an infection that's seasonal can quickly become a national health issue. It demands increased vigilance about hygiene, infection control, and healthcare system strength—not only in the UK but everywhere.

rising norovirus cases in uk force nhs to shut wards; what you can do to stay safe?

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California may be heading toward another record year of <span>Valley fever</span> infections, with early 2025 data already showing a troubling increase in reported cases. Health officials have confirmed over 3,100 infections across the state—figures that surpass last year’s numbers for the same period and nearly double those recorded in 2023.

 Valley fever, medically known as coccidioidomycosis, is a serious lung infection caused by the <em>Coccidioides</em> fungus, which thrives in the dry, dusty soils of the western U.S. California, where the disease was first identified, consistently reports the highest number of cases nationwide. If left untreated, the illness can lead to severe, long-term respiratory issues and even death if it spreads to the brain.

 “There is no question that the number of cases is enormously higher than before,” said Dr. Royce Johnson, director of the Valley Fever Institute at Kern Medical. “If you want to see me, you’d have to wait until July, and that goes for my colleagues, too,” he told NBC News, highlighting the growing strain on healthcare systems in affected regions.

 The majority of recent infections have been reported in Kern, Los Angeles, Monterey, and Fresno counties—areas long known as hotspots. But the illness is now expanding its reach. In Contra Costa County, located in the East Bay region, cases have tripled compared to 2023. Nearby Merced and San Bernardino counties are also reporting significant spikes.

 “It appears to be spreading out,” noted Gail Sondermeyer Cooksey, an epidemiologist with the California Department of Public Health.

 Valley fever infections occur when people inhale spores released into the air from soil containing <em>Coccidioides</em>. These spores can be stirred up by wind, construction, and agricultural activities. While anyone can get infected, those most at risk include people over 60, individuals with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, diabetics, and those of Black or Filipino descent. Outdoor workers also face higher exposure.

 Symptoms typically resemble those of the flu and may include fatigue, cough, fever, shortness of breath, and skin rashes. While most recover, about 10 percent develop chronic lung issues, and approximately 1 percent experience dissemination of the infection to the skin, bones, joints, or brain.

 Health experts also point to a concerning link between <strong>climate change</strong> and the disease's rising prevalence. Shifts from prolonged drought to intense rain—common in California’s recent weather patterns—create favorable conditions for the fungus to grow and later release spores as the land dries.

 “As climate change alters the timing and intensity of precipitation in California, we see longer high-risk periods for <em>Coccidioides</em> exposure,” said Simon Camponuri, a PhD researcher at the University of California, Berkeley.

 With forecasts predicting a hot and dry summer following recent floods and mudslides, health officials are bracing for continued spikes in Valley fever cases in the coming months. Public health campaigns are urging increased awareness, especially among vulnerable populations and those living in high-risk regions.

Valley Fever

US Health News

Valley Fever symptoms

How To Identify Valley Fever

California valley fever

California may be heading toward another record year of Valley fever infections, with early 2025 data already showing a troubling increase in reported cases. Health officials have confirmed over 3,100 infections across the state—figures that surpass last year’s numbers for the same period and nearly double those recorded in 2023. Valley fever, medically known as coccidioidomycosis, is a serious lung infection caused by the Coccidioides fungus, which thrives in the dry, dusty soils of the western U.S. California, where the disease was first identified, consistently reports the highest number of cases nationwide. If left untreated, the illness can lead to severe, long-term respiratory issues and even death if it spreads to the brain. “There is no question that the number of cases is enormously higher than before,” said Dr. Royce Johnson, director of the Valley Fever Institute at Kern Medical. “If you want to see me, you’d have to wait until July, and that goes for my colleagues, too,” he told NBC News, highlighting the growing strain on healthcare systems in affected regions. The majority of recent infections have been reported in Kern, Los Angeles, Monterey, and Fresno counties—areas long known as hotspots. But the illness is now expanding its reach. In Contra Costa County, located in the East Bay region, cases have tripled compared to 2023. Nearby Merced and San Bernardino counties are also reporting significant spikes. “It appears to be spreading out,” noted Gail Sondermeyer Cooksey, an epidemiologist with the California Department of Public Health. Valley fever infections occur when people inhale spores released into the air from soil containing Coccidioides. These spores can be stirred up by wind, construction, and agricultural activities. While anyone can get infected, those most at risk include people over 60, individuals with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, diabetics, and those of Black or Filipino descent. Outdoor workers also face higher exposure. Symptoms typically resemble those of the flu and may include fatigue, cough, fever, shortness of breath, and skin rashes. While most recover, about 10 percent develop chronic lung issues, and approximately 1 percent experience dissemination of the infection to the skin, bones, joints, or brain. Health experts also point to a concerning link between climate change and the disease's rising prevalence. Shifts from prolonged drought to intense rain—common in California’s recent weather patterns—create favorable conditions for the fungus to grow and later release spores as the land dries. “As climate change alters the timing and intensity of precipitation in California, we see longer high-risk periods for Coccidioides exposure,” said Simon Camponuri, a PhD researcher at the University of California, Berkeley. With forecasts predicting a hot and dry summer following recent floods and mudslides, health officials are bracing for continued spikes in Valley fever cases in the coming months. Public health campaigns are urging increased awareness, especially among vulnerable populations and those living in high-risk regions.

valley fever cases surge in california-how to identifiy this lung infection

GLP-1 Drugs Fight Fat, Curb Appetite And May Also Reduce Cancer Risk

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What if the one injection that is helping you lose weight and manage diabetes also protect you from <span>cancer</span>? That's the surprising promise emerging from a new study on <span>GLP-1 drugs</span>, drugs already drawing attention for their ability to battle obesity and regulate blood sugar. Now scientists have discovered a potential new advantage: a much reduced risk of cancers related to obesity.

While the global use of GLP-1 agonists such as Saxenda and Byetta is gaining speed, this research unlocks a thrilling new era in preventive care. But just how do such medications function and why could they be protecting us against cancer?

After once being touted as miracle drugs for treating obesity and type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 medications such as Saxenda and Byetta are now uncovering a new benefit: a reduced risk of cancer. New research in the journal eClinicalMedicine identifies that these initial weight-loss medications may have more to their credit than just reducing waistlines—they can cut the risk of developing obesity-linked cancers by a dramatic 41%.

This finding has the potential to change forever the way that we think about the wider ramifications of GLP-1 treatments, particularly in a world where metabolic diseases are closely associated with cancer susceptibility. But why might this new benefit exist? And how do these drugs actually work?

<h2>What Are GLP-1 Drugs and How Do They Work?</h2>

GLP-1 agonists (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) are a type of drug that mimics the effect of an endogenous hormone involved in the modulation of appetite, blood glucose levels, and digestion. Initially approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, they've become very popular due to their capacity to cause weight loss by reducing hunger and slowing gastric emptying.

Drugs such as liraglutide (Saxenda) and exenatide (Byetta) are usually given through subcutaneous injection. Newer forms, including semaglutide (<span>Ozempic</span>) and tirzepatide (Zepbound), have greater efficacy in weight loss and metabolic control, although they were not part of this specific study.

GLP-1 acts via a cascade of hormonal action:

<ul><li>It triggers the release of insulin from the pancreas, lowering blood sugar.</li><li>It inhibits the release of glucagon, a hormone that increases blood sugar.</li><li>It reduces the rate at which the stomach empties following meals.</li></ul>

Perhaps most importantly for managing weight, it sends satiety messages to the brain to make people feel fuller for longer.

<h2>Missing Link Between Cancer Risk and Obesity </h2>

Both type 2 diabetes and obesity are firmly established as risk factors for many forms of cancer, such as breast, colon, uterine, pancreatic, and liver cancer. This can be explained by the chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and hormonal imbalance that accompany excess fat stores.

For their new study, scientists from Clalit Health Services in Tel Aviv, Israel, analyzed electronic health records of more than 6,300 adults age 24 and above. Everyone involved had both type 2 diabetes and obesity and received either GLP-1 medication or weight-loss surgery between 2010 and 2018. The group was followed through to December 2023 to record cancer diagnoses.

During a median follow-up of 7.5 years, approximately 300 individuals developed cancer of the obesity type—predominantly breast (26%), colon (16%), and uterus (15%).

Although bariatric surgery has been the obesity treatment gold standard for decades—and was in turn found to lower cancer risk—scientists discovered obesity-associated cancers were equal in both the surgery and GLP-1 groups. This was unexpected because surgery tends to induce greater and more immediate weight loss.

Still, additional statistical examination found that the GLP-1 medications offered a 41% lower risk of cancerous developments than surgery indicated that their anti-cancer benefit might extend beyond weight loss alone.

<h2>Reason Behind the Anti-Cancer Effect</h2>

According to co-lead researcher Dr. Dror Dicker, who heads the Obesity Clinic at Hasharon Hospital-Rabin Medical Center, the anti-cancer effects of GLP-1 drugs likely stem from multiple mechanisms. “Reducing inflammation, improving insulin sensitivity, and altering cellular growth pathways may all play a role,” he noted in a news release.

While more recent, more powerful GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic and Zepbound were not included in the study, researchers are convinced they may provide even stronger protective effects. However, additional long-term studies are necessary to determine their impacts on cancers that are not related to obesity.

This new evidence indicates a paradigm shift of foundational importance in the way we think about metabolic health interventions. GLP-1 medications could soon be hailed not merely as weight-loss supplements or treatments for diabetes but as prevention against one of the world's most dreaded illnesses.

Nevertheless, prudence is still advisable. Long-term experience with these drugs is lacking, and their side effects, including nausea, gastrointestinal upset, and possible hazards for thyroid tumors, need to be weighed. A boxed warning is now placed on the list of the FDA for some GLP-1 drugs for thyroid C-cell tumors, although this has so far been seen most commonly in animal models.

With the worldwide obesity epidemic on the rise, so is the need to know how drugs such as GLP-1 agonists can change not only waistlines, but also long-term health endpoints. The notion that a single class of medication might lower the risk of cancer in addition to managing blood glucose and reducing appetite is revolutionary.

Additional research, particularly with next-generation GLP-1 drugs, will be necessary to more fully investigate and validate these benefits but for the time being, this study introduces an exhilarating and promising new chapter at the nexus of <span>cancer prevention</span> and obesity treatment.

cancer

glp-1 drugs

cancer prevention

weight loss medication

obesity-related cancer

saxenda study

glp-1 cancer risk

diabetes and cancer

ozempic

What if the one injection that is helping you lose weight and manage diabetes also protect you from cancer? That's the surprising promise emerging from a new study on GLP-1 drugs, drugs already drawing attention for their ability to battle obesity and regulate blood sugar. Now scientists have discovered a potential new advantage: a much reduced risk of cancers related to obesity.While the global use of GLP-1 agonists such as Saxenda and Byetta is gaining speed, this research unlocks a thrilling new era in preventive care. But just how do such medications function and why could they be protecting us against cancer?After once being touted as miracle drugs for treating obesity and type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 medications such as Saxenda and Byetta are now uncovering a new benefit: a reduced risk of cancer. New research in the journal eClinicalMedicine identifies that these initial weight-loss medications may have more to their credit than just reducing waistlines—they can cut the risk of developing obesity-linked cancers by a dramatic 41%.This finding has the potential to change forever the way that we think about the wider ramifications of GLP-1 treatments, particularly in a world where metabolic diseases are closely associated with cancer susceptibility. But why might this new benefit exist? And how do these drugs actually work?What Are GLP-1 Drugs and How Do They Work?GLP-1 agonists (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) are a type of drug that mimics the effect of an endogenous hormone involved in the modulation of appetite, blood glucose levels, and digestion. Initially approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, they've become very popular due to their capacity to cause weight loss by reducing hunger and slowing gastric emptying.Drugs such as liraglutide (Saxenda) and exenatide (Byetta) are usually given through subcutaneous injection. Newer forms, including semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Zepbound), have greater efficacy in weight loss and metabolic control, although they were not part of this specific study.GLP-1 acts via a cascade of hormonal action:It triggers the release of insulin from the pancreas, lowering blood sugar.It inhibits the release of glucagon, a hormone that increases blood sugar.It reduces the rate at which the stomach empties following meals.Perhaps most importantly for managing weight, it sends satiety messages to the brain to make people feel fuller for longer.Missing Link Between Cancer Risk and Obesity Both type 2 diabetes and obesity are firmly established as risk factors for many forms of cancer, such as breast, colon, uterine, pancreatic, and liver cancer. This can be explained by the chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and hormonal imbalance that accompany excess fat stores.For their new study, scientists from Clalit Health Services in Tel Aviv, Israel, analyzed electronic health records of more than 6,300 adults age 24 and above. Everyone involved had both type 2 diabetes and obesity and received either GLP-1 medication or weight-loss surgery between 2010 and 2018. The group was followed through to December 2023 to record cancer diagnoses.During a median follow-up of 7.5 years, approximately 300 individuals developed cancer of the obesity type—predominantly breast (26%), colon (16%), and uterus (15%).GLP-1 vs. SurgeryAlthough bariatric surgery has been the obesity treatment gold standard for decades—and was in turn found to lower cancer risk—scientists discovered obesity-associated cancers were equal in both the surgery and GLP-1 groups. This was unexpected because surgery tends to induce greater and more immediate weight loss.Still, additional statistical examination found that the GLP-1 medications offered a 41% lower risk of cancerous developments than surgery indicated that their anti-cancer benefit might extend beyond weight loss alone.Reason Behind the Anti-Cancer EffectAccording to co-lead researcher Dr. Dror Dicker, who heads the Obesity Clinic at Hasharon Hospital-Rabin Medical Center, the anti-cancer effects of GLP-1 drugs likely stem from multiple mechanisms. “Reducing inflammation, improving insulin sensitivity, and altering cellular growth pathways may all play a role,” he noted in a news release.While more recent, more powerful GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic and Zepbound were not included in the study, researchers are convinced they may provide even stronger protective effects. However, additional long-term studies are necessary to determine their impacts on cancers that are not related to obesity.Can It Change Cancer Treatment?This new evidence indicates a paradigm shift of foundational importance in the way we think about metabolic health interventions. GLP-1 medications could soon be hailed not merely as weight-loss supplements or treatments for diabetes but as prevention against one of the world's most dreaded illnesses.Nevertheless, prudence is still advisable. Long-term experience with these drugs is lacking, and their side effects, including nausea, gastrointestinal upset, and possible hazards for thyroid tumors, need to be weighed. A boxed warning is now placed on the list of the FDA for some GLP-1 drugs for thyroid C-cell tumors, although this has so far been seen most commonly in animal models.With the worldwide obesity epidemic on the rise, so is the need to know how drugs such as GLP-1 agonists can change not only waistlines, but also long-term health endpoints. The notion that a single class of medication might lower the risk of cancer in addition to managing blood glucose and reducing appetite is revolutionary.Additional research, particularly with next-generation GLP-1 drugs, will be necessary to more fully investigate and validate these benefits but for the time being, this study introduces an exhilarating and promising new chapter at the nexus of cancer prevention and obesity treatment.

glp-1 drugs fight fat, curb appetite and may also reduce cancer risk

Not Cholesterol: Surprising Chemical In Shampoo Bottles Tied To Heart-Related Deaths In India

Plastic Pieces Prompt Recall Of Popular Ice Cream Brand

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Thousands of Indians die every year from heart disease. Now you may link it to high cholesterol and a lack of physical exercise, but the reality is different. According to researchers, these deaths are a result of exposure to a harmful chemical that is present in shampoos, food containers and all other common household <span>plastic</span> products. 

A recent study published in The Lancet eBioMedicine has identified a significant link between exposure to di-2-ethylhexyl <span>phthalate</span> (DEHP)—a chemical commonly used to make plastics more flexible—and heart disease deaths. Surprisingly, among the 200 countries evaluated, India had the highest burden of DEHP-linked cardiovascular deaths and accounted for almost a third of the global mortalities.

DEHP is prevalent in numerous household items, including food containers, medical equipment, toys, shampoos and lotions. The study, conducted by researchers at NYU Langone Health, analysed urine samples and environmental data from over 200 countries and territories. They found that in 2018, DEHP exposure was associated with around 356,238 deaths among individuals aged 55 to 64, accounting for over 13 per cent of global heart disease deaths in that age group. The researchers attributed India's elevated mortality to the rapid expansion of its plastics industry, widespread use of DEHP-containing products and weaker regulatory controls compared to some other nations. 

It is estimated that chemicals in plastic were linked to nearly 350,000 heart disease deaths across the world in 2018. Adding to that, is this study published in the journal eBioMedicine, which estimated that roughly 13 per cent of cardiovascular deaths among 55- to 64-year-olds worldwide that year could be attributed to phthalates.

Where Are Phthalates are esters of phthalic acids, which are added to plastics to increase their flexibility, transparency, durability, and longevity. They are found in personal care products like shampoos and lotions as well as in food containers and packaging. It is also possible to ingest them through food, absorb them through skin from products containing them or breathe them from dust.

<h2>Study Shows Phthalates Increase Risk of Heart Diseases</h2>

Some studies have shown an association between phthalates and cardiovascular disease, but there isn’t strong evidence to show that the chemicals directly cause heart issues, said Sung Kyun Park, a professor of epidemiology and environmental sciences at the University of Michigan School of Public Health. However, there is enough evidence that states that phthalates increase the risk of metabolic disorders like obesity and Type 2 diabetes, which can cause cardiovascular disease. One way phthalates may do this is by increasing oxidative stress—cell and tissue damage that happens when there are too many unstable molecules in the body—and by promoting inflammation. 

Cardiovascular Diseases

Plastic

Deaths due to plastic

Phthalate

Health issues in India

Thousands of Indians die every year from heart disease. Now you may link it to high cholesterol and a lack of physical exercise, but the reality is different. According to researchers, these deaths are a result of exposure to a harmful chemical that is present in shampoos, food containers and all other common household plastic products. A recent study published in The Lancet eBioMedicine has identified a significant link between exposure to di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP)—a chemical commonly used to make plastics more flexible—and heart disease deaths. Surprisingly, among the 200 countries evaluated, India had the highest burden of DEHP-linked cardiovascular deaths and accounted for almost a third of the global mortalities.What Is DEHP?DEHP is prevalent in numerous household items, including food containers, medical equipment, toys, shampoos and lotions. The study, conducted by researchers at NYU Langone Health, analysed urine samples and environmental data from over 200 countries and territories. They found that in 2018, DEHP exposure was associated with around 356,238 deaths among individuals aged 55 to 64, accounting for over 13 per cent of global heart disease deaths in that age group. The researchers attributed India's elevated mortality to the rapid expansion of its plastics industry, widespread use of DEHP-containing products and weaker regulatory controls compared to some other nations. It is estimated that chemicals in plastic were linked to nearly 350,000 heart disease deaths across the world in 2018. Adding to that, is this study published in the journal eBioMedicine, which estimated that roughly 13 per cent of cardiovascular deaths among 55- to 64-year-olds worldwide that year could be attributed to phthalates.Where Are Phthalates are esters of phthalic acids, which are added to plastics to increase their flexibility, transparency, durability, and longevity. They are found in personal care products like shampoos and lotions as well as in food containers and packaging. It is also possible to ingest them through food, absorb them through skin from products containing them or breathe them from dust.Study Shows Phthalates Increase Risk of Heart DiseasesSome studies have shown an association between phthalates and cardiovascular disease, but there isn’t strong evidence to show that the chemicals directly cause heart issues, said Sung Kyun Park, a professor of epidemiology and environmental sciences at the University of Michigan School of Public Health. However, there is enough evidence that states that phthalates increase the risk of metabolic disorders like obesity and Type 2 diabetes, which can cause cardiovascular disease. One way phthalates may do this is by increasing oxidative stress—cell and tissue damage that happens when there are too many unstable molecules in the body—and by promoting inflammation. 

not cholesterol: surprising chemical in shampoo bottles tied to heart-related deaths in india

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