Health and Me

Ishita Roy

World Brain Day 2025: History, Theme, And Significance

Every year on July 22, <span>World Brain Day</span> is observed across the globe to raise awareness about the importance of <span>brain health</span>. This day also aims at encouraging better knowledge on neurological care, early invention, and in educating people about the same. 

<h4>History of World <span rel="noindex">Brain Day</span></h4>

It was on 2014, when the World Federation of Neurology (WFN) started the event of World Brain Day, in order to safeguard neurological health from earliest phases of development, right from childhood, adulthood, and older age. 

Neurological disorders are one of the leading causes of disability-adjusted life years and the second leading cause of mortality, globally. 

<h4><span rel="noindex">World Brain Day 2025</span> Theme</h4>

This year's theme for World Brain Day is, 'Brain Health For All Ages'. This theme aims to prioritise brain health and also echoes the concept that neurological health must be safeguarded at all ages. Whether you are a child, caring for one, a parent, or an elderly. 

World Brain Day shines a spotlight on the growing global challenge posed by neurological disorders. From stroke and dementia to epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease, these conditions not only affect the daily lives of millions but also place a heavy burden on healthcare systems around the world.

This annual health campaign plays a vital role by:

<ul><li>Raising public awareness about brain health and neurological conditions, with a focus on early detection and timely treatment.</li><li>Highlighting the need for ongoing research to improve treatment options, discover potential cures, and enhance prevention strategies.</li><li>Creating a sense of solidarity among patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals, fostering support and shared purpose.</li><li>Urging policymakers to make brain health a priority in public health planning through better policies and increased funding.</li></ul>

<strong>Early life matters:</strong> Brain health starts in the womb. Maternal health and early childhood experiences have a lasting impact on brain development and future neurological outcomes.

<strong>Adulthood is crucial:</strong> The lifestyle choices we make—such as exercise, diet, sleep, and stress management—play a major role in determining our risk of neurological disorders later in life.

<strong>Ageing doesn’t mean decline: </strong>While certain changes in brain function are natural with age, proactive steps—like staying mentally and socially engaged—can preserve cognitive health and improve quality of life.

By adopting a lifespan perspective, this year’s campaign encourages everyone to take brain health seriously, no matter their age. Because a healthy brain means a better life—for individuals, families, and society as a whole.

<h4>Early Signs That Must Not Be Ignored To Promote A Healthy Brain</h4>

Spotting the early signs of a brain tumor can make a crucial difference in diagnosis and treatment. While symptoms can vary depending on the tumor’s type and location—like Pituitary Adenoma, Meningioma, or Metastatic Brain Tumors—there are several common warning signs that deserve attention.

<h4>Persistent Headaches That Get Worse Over Time</h4>

Not all headaches are a red flag, but if yours are becoming more frequent, especially worse in the mornings or during physical activity, it could indicate increased pressure in the brain. Any noticeable change in headache pattern, intensity, or timing should be discussed with a doctor.

Blurred vision, loss of side (peripheral) vision, or sudden issues with sight could signal pressure on the optic nerves. Tumors located near the visual pathways, such as Pituitary Adenomas, often show up through these kinds of symptoms.

If you’ve never had a seizure before and suddenly experience one, it’s a serious sign that should never be ignored. Seizures can occur when a tumor disrupts the brain’s normal electrical activity.

<h4>Balance Problems or Coordination Issues</h4>

Feeling unusually unsteady, dizzy, or having difficulty walking could point to a tumor in the cerebellum or brainstem—areas responsible for balance and coordination. If you're suddenly clumsy or off-balance, it’s time to get checked.

<h4>Changes in Memory, Mood, or Personality</h4>

A brain tumor in the frontal or temporal lobes may affect how a person thinks, feels, or behaves. Sudden mood swings, memory lapses, confusion, or personality changes—especially if noticeable to others—are warning signs not to be brushed off as stress.

Unexplained weakness, tingling, or numbness—especially on one side of the body—might signal a tumor pressing on parts of the brain that control movement and sensation.

<h4>Ongoing Nausea or Vomiting Without a Clear Cause</h4>

If you're frequently nauseous or vomiting and it’s not related to food poisoning, pregnancy, or a stomach bug, it could be due to increased pressure inside the skull caused by a tumor.

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Every year on July 22, World Brain Day is observed across the globe to raise awareness about the importance of brain health. This day also aims at encouraging better knowledge on neurological care, early invention, and in educating people about the same. History of World Brain DayIt was on 2014, when the World Federation of Neurology (WFN) started the event of World Brain Day, in order to safeguard neurological health from earliest phases of development, right from childhood, adulthood, and older age. Neurological disorders are one of the leading causes of disability-adjusted life years and the second leading cause of mortality, globally. World Brain Day 2025 ThemeThis year's theme for World Brain Day is, 'Brain Health For All Ages'. This theme aims to prioritise brain health and also echoes the concept that neurological health must be safeguarded at all ages. Whether you are a child, caring for one, a parent, or an elderly. Significance of World Brain DayWorld Brain Day shines a spotlight on the growing global challenge posed by neurological disorders. From stroke and dementia to epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease, these conditions not only affect the daily lives of millions but also place a heavy burden on healthcare systems around the world.This annual health campaign plays a vital role by:Raising public awareness about brain health and neurological conditions, with a focus on early detection and timely treatment.Highlighting the need for ongoing research to improve treatment options, discover potential cures, and enhance prevention strategies.Creating a sense of solidarity among patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals, fostering support and shared purpose.Urging policymakers to make brain health a priority in public health planning through better policies and increased funding.Importance of World Brain DayEarly life matters: Brain health starts in the womb. Maternal health and early childhood experiences have a lasting impact on brain development and future neurological outcomes.Adulthood is crucial: The lifestyle choices we make—such as exercise, diet, sleep, and stress management—play a major role in determining our risk of neurological disorders later in life.Ageing doesn’t mean decline: While certain changes in brain function are natural with age, proactive steps—like staying mentally and socially engaged—can preserve cognitive health and improve quality of life.By adopting a lifespan perspective, this year’s campaign encourages everyone to take brain health seriously, no matter their age. Because a healthy brain means a better life—for individuals, families, and society as a whole.Early Signs That Must Not Be Ignored To Promote A Healthy BrainSpotting the early signs of a brain tumor can make a crucial difference in diagnosis and treatment. While symptoms can vary depending on the tumor’s type and location—like Pituitary Adenoma, Meningioma, or Metastatic Brain Tumors—there are several common warning signs that deserve attention.Persistent Headaches That Get Worse Over TimeNot all headaches are a red flag, but if yours are becoming more frequent, especially worse in the mornings or during physical activity, it could indicate increased pressure in the brain. Any noticeable change in headache pattern, intensity, or timing should be discussed with a doctor.Vision Changes or Double VisionBlurred vision, loss of side (peripheral) vision, or sudden issues with sight could signal pressure on the optic nerves. Tumors located near the visual pathways, such as Pituitary Adenomas, often show up through these kinds of symptoms.New-Onset SeizuresIf you’ve never had a seizure before and suddenly experience one, it’s a serious sign that should never be ignored. Seizures can occur when a tumor disrupts the brain’s normal electrical activity.Balance Problems or Coordination IssuesFeeling unusually unsteady, dizzy, or having difficulty walking could point to a tumor in the cerebellum or brainstem—areas responsible for balance and coordination. If you're suddenly clumsy or off-balance, it’s time to get checked.Changes in Memory, Mood, or PersonalityA brain tumor in the frontal or temporal lobes may affect how a person thinks, feels, or behaves. Sudden mood swings, memory lapses, confusion, or personality changes—especially if noticeable to others—are warning signs not to be brushed off as stress.Numbness or Weakness in LimbsUnexplained weakness, tingling, or numbness—especially on one side of the body—might signal a tumor pressing on parts of the brain that control movement and sensation.Ongoing Nausea or Vomiting Without a Clear CauseIf you're frequently nauseous or vomiting and it’s not related to food poisoning, pregnancy, or a stomach bug, it could be due to increased pressure inside the skull caused by a tumor.

world brain day 2025: history, theme, and significance

Bruce Willis Health Update: A Diagnostic Timeline From Aphasia To Dementia

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The beloved <em>Die Hard</em> star, <span>Bruce Willis</span>, now 70, is spending his retirement surrounded by close family while navigating the challenges of <span>frontotemporal dementia</span> (FTD), a progressive brain disorder. Willis publicly stepped away from acting in 2022 after being diagnosed with <span>aphasia</span>, a condition that affects the ability to communicate. A year later, his family revealed the underlying cause: FTD, a condition that gradually affects speech, behavior, and cognition.

Today, Willis remains alive and cared for at home, surrounded by his blended family, including wife Emma Heming Willis, ex-wife Demi Moore, and his five daughters. While his public presence has faded, his family's updates keep fans connected to his journey.

<h4>From Aphasia to Frontotemporal <span rel="noindex">Dementia</span></h4>

In March 2022, fans were shocked by a family statement revealing Willis had been diagnosed with aphasia. The announcement was brief but clear: the condition was affecting his cognitive abilities and making it impossible for him to continue his acting career. However, aphasia was just one piece of the puzzle.

By February 2023, a more specific diagnosis emerged. The Willis family confirmed Bruce was dealing with frontotemporal dementia, a degenerative condition that often begins with language difficulties and eventually affects decision-making, emotional regulation, and behavior.

"Challenges with communication are just one symptom of the disease Bruce faces," the family shared at the time, emphasizing that the condition affects far more than speech.

Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, FTD tends to strike earlier, often in one’s 50s or 60s—and can progress quickly. It affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, areas associated with language, behavior, and executive function. Currently, there is no cure.

<h4>The Emotional Weight of Caregiving</h4>

Emma Heming Willis has taken on a leading role in Bruce's care and advocacy. Over the past two years, she’s become a vocal supporter for caregivers and families dealing with dementia.

In a <em>People </em>magazine interview published in May 2025, Emma opened up about the early days of Bruce’s diagnosis. “We received a diagnosis and were sent away with no hope, no guidance, no nothing. I really had to figure out how to put resources into place,” she shared, reflecting the emotional and logistical maze caregivers often face.

Her journey inspired her to create resources and support networks for others in similar situations. She continues to document parts of this experience on social media—not to focus on Bruce’s decline, but to highlight the love, humor, and resilience that continue to exist in their home.

Demi Moore and Bruce’s daughters, Rumer, Scout, Tallulah, Mabel, and Evelyn—have all rallied around him. Their Instagram tributes are filled with gentle moments: shared hugs, quiet celebrations, and messages of gratitude for their father.

For Bruce’s 70th birthday earlier this year, Demi posted a photo with the caption, “Quality time with our BW,” offering a glimpse into their enduring bond. Similar updates on Father’s Day and family anniversaries have become testaments to togetherness in the face of change.

Rather than leaning into clinical details, the family’s posts focus on presence and love—showing the world how meaningful care can look even during decline.

His final films, including <em>Assassin </em>and <em>Detective Knight: Independence </em>(both released in 2023), were completed amid his health challenges. Retrospectively, fans and critics noted that the simpler roles and shorter production schedules may have been early accommodations to his changing condition.

When his retirement was officially announced on March 30, 2022, daughter Rumer posted:

“To Bruce’s amazing supporters… Bruce has been experiencing some health issues and has recently been diagnosed with aphasia… With much consideration, Bruce is stepping away from the career that has meant so much to him.”

<h4>From Celebrity Story to Public Health Conversation</h4>

Bruce Willis’ diagnosis has helped bring attention to aphasia and FTD, two conditions that are often misunderstood and under-discussed. His family's openness has inspired conversations around the emotional and practical realities of caregiving, early diagnosis, and the importance of support.

bruce willis

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aphasia

frontotemporal dementia

The beloved Die Hard star, Bruce Willis, now 70, is spending his retirement surrounded by close family while navigating the challenges of frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a progressive brain disorder. Willis publicly stepped away from acting in 2022 after being diagnosed with aphasia, a condition that affects the ability to communicate. A year later, his family revealed the underlying cause: FTD, a condition that gradually affects speech, behavior, and cognition.Today, Willis remains alive and cared for at home, surrounded by his blended family, including wife Emma Heming Willis, ex-wife Demi Moore, and his five daughters. While his public presence has faded, his family's updates keep fans connected to his journey.From Aphasia to Frontotemporal DementiaIn March 2022, fans were shocked by a family statement revealing Willis had been diagnosed with aphasia. The announcement was brief but clear: the condition was affecting his cognitive abilities and making it impossible for him to continue his acting career. However, aphasia was just one piece of the puzzle.By February 2023, a more specific diagnosis emerged. The Willis family confirmed Bruce was dealing with frontotemporal dementia, a degenerative condition that often begins with language difficulties and eventually affects decision-making, emotional regulation, and behavior."Challenges with communication are just one symptom of the disease Bruce faces," the family shared at the time, emphasizing that the condition affects far more than speech.Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, FTD tends to strike earlier, often in one’s 50s or 60s—and can progress quickly. It affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, areas associated with language, behavior, and executive function. Currently, there is no cure.The Emotional Weight of CaregivingEmma Heming Willis has taken on a leading role in Bruce's care and advocacy. Over the past two years, she’s become a vocal supporter for caregivers and families dealing with dementia.In a People magazine interview published in May 2025, Emma opened up about the early days of Bruce’s diagnosis. “We received a diagnosis and were sent away with no hope, no guidance, no nothing. I really had to figure out how to put resources into place,” she shared, reflecting the emotional and logistical maze caregivers often face.Her journey inspired her to create resources and support networks for others in similar situations. She continues to document parts of this experience on social media—not to focus on Bruce’s decline, but to highlight the love, humor, and resilience that continue to exist in their home.A Strong Network of CaregiversDemi Moore and Bruce’s daughters, Rumer, Scout, Tallulah, Mabel, and Evelyn—have all rallied around him. Their Instagram tributes are filled with gentle moments: shared hugs, quiet celebrations, and messages of gratitude for their father.For Bruce’s 70th birthday earlier this year, Demi posted a photo with the caption, “Quality time with our BW,” offering a glimpse into their enduring bond. Similar updates on Father’s Day and family anniversaries have become testaments to togetherness in the face of change.Rather than leaning into clinical details, the family’s posts focus on presence and love—showing the world how meaningful care can look even during decline.His final films, including Assassin and Detective Knight: Independence (both released in 2023), were completed amid his health challenges. Retrospectively, fans and critics noted that the simpler roles and shorter production schedules may have been early accommodations to his changing condition.When his retirement was officially announced on March 30, 2022, daughter Rumer posted:“To Bruce’s amazing supporters… Bruce has been experiencing some health issues and has recently been diagnosed with aphasia… With much consideration, Bruce is stepping away from the career that has meant so much to him.”From Celebrity Story to Public Health ConversationBruce Willis’ diagnosis has helped bring attention to aphasia and FTD, two conditions that are often misunderstood and under-discussed. His family's openness has inspired conversations around the emotional and practical realities of caregiving, early diagnosis, and the importance of support.

bruce willis health update: a diagnostic timeline from aphasia to dementia

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Popular Dubai Chocolate Spread Recalled Over Salmonella Risk, FDA Issues Warning

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A popular chocolate spread from Dubai is at the center of a nationwide health scare in the U.S. after being recalled over salmonella contamination. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has now issued a Class 1 recall—its most serious level of health alert—warning that consumption of the product could result in severe illness or even death.

The recall is of Emek Gıda's pistachio-cocoa paste, which was available at World Market retail stores in 32 states. It began a voluntary recall on July 14 after regular sampling tests indicated the presence of salmonella bacteria. The FDA, by July 17, had raised the problem to Class 1 alert level, which indicates a "reasonable probability" of severe adverse health effects following consumption.

There are four confirmed cases of salmonella infection involving one hospitalization attributed to this product. 

The product involved is Emek Gıda pistachio-cocoa spread with a batch code 250401 and best-before date of April 1, 2027. The code appears on the top of the lid. The affected batch was released between June 11 and July 9 in World Market stores mainly.

If you’ve recently purchased a chocolate spread from World Market, especially a pistachio-cocoa variety, check the label immediately.

Salmonella is not just another stomach bug. While many healthy adults recover within a few days, for young children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems, it can be deadly.

Symptoms usually appear within 6 hours to 6 days of exposure and include:

<ul><li>Fever</li><li>Diarrhea (often bloody)</li><li>Nausea</li><li>Vomiting</li><li>Stomach cramps</li></ul>

In more critical cases, salmonella can spread into the bloodstream, causing life-threatening illnesses such as infected aneurysms, endocarditis (heart valve infection), or reactive arthritis. That is why the FDA's Class 1 warning cannot be taken lightly.

<ul><li>Don't eat it</li><li>Take it back to the store and get a full refund</li><li>Or discard it safely</li></ul>

Also, clean and disinfect any surfaces, utensils, or containers that came into contact with the product. Bacteria such as salmonella can remain and transfer to other food or surfaces.

If you've eaten the spread and develop symptoms, call your healthcare provider at once.

To date, the outbreak seems to be confined to the one batch of Emek Gıda's pistachio-cocoa spread. Nevertheless, the reality that it entered U.S. stores and onto shelves speaks to weaknesses in global food supply chains and import inspection procedures.

FDA and CDC officials are ongoing in tracing the product's distribution, and additional developments could come if additional batches are discovered to be tainted.

Food recalls happen, but a Class 1 alert involving a well-known imported food item that makes several individuals sick is an eye-opener for regulators, retailers, and consumers.

If you have this item at home, don't gamble. Get rid of it or return it, and keep an eye on your health. This is not just about a chocolate spread—it's about food safety, public health, and being watchful of what we consume.

dubai chocolate spread recall

salmonella outbreak fda

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diet & nutrition

A popular chocolate spread from Dubai is at the center of a nationwide health scare in the U.S. after being recalled over salmonella contamination. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has now issued a Class 1 recall—its most serious level of health alert—warning that consumption of the product could result in severe illness or even death.The recall is of Emek Gıda's pistachio-cocoa paste, which was available at World Market retail stores in 32 states. It began a voluntary recall on July 14 after regular sampling tests indicated the presence of salmonella bacteria. The FDA, by July 17, had raised the problem to Class 1 alert level, which indicates a "reasonable probability" of severe adverse health effects following consumption.There are four confirmed cases of salmonella infection involving one hospitalization attributed to this product. The product involved is Emek Gıda pistachio-cocoa spread with a batch code 250401 and best-before date of April 1, 2027. The code appears on the top of the lid. The affected batch was released between June 11 and July 9 in World Market stores mainly.If you’ve recently purchased a chocolate spread from World Market, especially a pistachio-cocoa variety, check the label immediately.How To Spot Salmonella?Salmonella is not just another stomach bug. While many healthy adults recover within a few days, for young children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems, it can be deadly.Symptoms usually appear within 6 hours to 6 days of exposure and include:FeverDiarrhea (often bloody)NauseaVomitingStomach crampsIn more critical cases, salmonella can spread into the bloodstream, causing life-threatening illnesses such as infected aneurysms, endocarditis (heart valve infection), or reactive arthritis. That is why the FDA's Class 1 warning cannot be taken lightly.What Should Consumers Do?If you have this spread in your home:Don't eat itTake it back to the store and get a full refundOr discard it safelyAlso, clean and disinfect any surfaces, utensils, or containers that came into contact with the product. Bacteria such as salmonella can remain and transfer to other food or surfaces.If you've eaten the spread and develop symptoms, call your healthcare provider at once.Is the Risk Contained?To date, the outbreak seems to be confined to the one batch of Emek Gıda's pistachio-cocoa spread. Nevertheless, the reality that it entered U.S. stores and onto shelves speaks to weaknesses in global food supply chains and import inspection procedures.FDA and CDC officials are ongoing in tracing the product's distribution, and additional developments could come if additional batches are discovered to be tainted.Food recalls happen, but a Class 1 alert involving a well-known imported food item that makes several individuals sick is an eye-opener for regulators, retailers, and consumers.If you have this item at home, don't gamble. Get rid of it or return it, and keep an eye on your health. This is not just about a chocolate spread—it's about food safety, public health, and being watchful of what we consume.

popular dubai chocolate spread recalled over salmonella risk, fda issues warning

Childhood Obesity Can Be Predicted With A Genetic Test: Scientists Identify Early-Life Markers That Signal Risk

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In a recent study published in Nature Medicine, an international group of scientists analyzed genetic information from more than five million individuals—by far the biggest and most diverse dataset ever. They may have just created an effective tool for finding children at risk of becoming obese before signs appear on the scale. The outcome is a polygenic risk score that's already being shown to be twice as accurate as earlier measures at predicting future obesity risk—particularly in people of European descent.

Obesity is more than a cosmetic or lifestyle problem—it's a multifaceted disease with genetic, environmental, and behavioral roots. Obesity has increased more than twice in the world in adults and fourfold in teenagers since 1990, states the World Health Organization. In the United States, the issue is even more severe: more than 40% of adults and almost 20% of children and teens live with obesity, reports the CDC.

The sooner we can detect those at risk, the more likely we are to be able to intervene with approaches such as tailored diet, behavior modification, or exercise—before irreversible harm is done. And that's where this new gene test has potential.

"Childhood is the best time to intervene," said Professor Ruth Loos at the University of Copenhagen and one of the study's senior authors.

<h2>How Does Polygenic Risk Score Work?</h2>

At its core lies the polygenic risk score (PRS), a measure that sums the impact of thousands of genetic variants linked to body mass index (BMI). Earlier versions of PRS were able to explain around 8.5% of an individual's future risk of obesity, but the new one can account for as much as 17.6%—a significant increase in predictive capability.

This is how it works: a child's DNA is gathered by means of a routine blood test. That DNA is tested for established genetic markers that affect traits such as appetite, fat storage, metabolism, and reaction to weight loss treatment. The greater the number of risk variants someone has, the greater their polygenic score—and their risk of developing obesity as an adult.

This type of anticipation provides pediatricians and parents with a window of opportunity to intervene early using lifestyle modification aimed at the child's genetic profile.

Perhaps the most compelling part of this study is how it justifies an increased focus on precision health. Not all weight gain is equal—and neither are all weight loss strategies. Some individuals react favorably to protocol diets or physical exercise, while others do not. Genetics can account for some of that heterogeneity.

In order to achieve sustainable losses, researchers learned that for people with a high genetic risk, the response to interventions was frequently higher—but the weight also came back faster once intervention ended. This implies that longer-term assistance, not one-time programs, is key for individuals with greater genetic risk.

"While the test says who could gain weight, it says who could also gain most from early and continuous support," said lead author Assistant Professor Roelof Smit.

<h2>What Are Some Challenges To This Tool?</h2>

Although the new PRS is revolutionary, it's not flawless. Its largest flaw is that it's much less predictive for individuals of non-European descent. In the East Asian participants, it accounted for 16% of BMI variation. In rural Ugandans, the predictive ability fell to only 2.2%.

That's a big problem. About 70% of the subjects in the study were of European descent, and just 1.5% South Asian. Researchers do note the imbalance and emphasize the necessity for more diverse genetic information in order to gain higher accuracy across populations.

"We need to create datasets that more accurately capture the entire scope of human diversity," said Loos. "Only then can tools such as this be fair and useful for all.

<h2>Why Obesity Suddenly Becoming Global Health Crisis?</h2>

Even as there is so much excitement around this breakthrough, it's worth keeping in mind the extent of the problem. Obesity is still one of the most prevalent chronic diseases in the world. It enormously increases the likelihood of heart disease, diabetes, some cancers, and shorter life expectancy. An estimated more than half of the planet's population may be overweight or obese by 2035, as per the World Obesity Federation.

In England, almost 65% of adults are obese or overweight. In America, the prevalence is even more severe, with almost 2 out of 5 adults and 1 out of 5 children impacted. Social determinants such as income, education, and food access continue to fuel disparities—particularly among non-Hispanic Black adults and lower-income populations.

That's why researchers are stressing that this gene test is just part of the puzzle. Obesity isn't genetically determined—it's also about the world we live in.

What's important to realize is that a high polygenic risk score doesn't sentence a child to obesity—it's a risk, but not a fate. Environment, behavior, and choice all still play really important roles. But with that early genetic knowledge, families and doctors can get ahead of a kid's biology, instead of fighting against it.

Picture a pediatric appointment in the not-too-distant future where, in addition to standard screenings, your child's DNA is scanned for risk of obesity. If their polygenic score is elevated, they may be presented with a tailored prevention regimen that adapts with their growth—well before the number on the scale is a problem.

This novel gene-strengthening tool is currently in the proof-of-concept stage. Researchers are now urging larger and more varied studies to perfect the score and assess its utility in clinical practice. The hope is to build genetics into standard pediatric practice in an ethical, equitable, and empowering manner.

In the meantime, this study represents a promising milestone in revolutionizing the way that we learn about, forecast, and avoid obesity—right from the beginning of life.

childhood obesity

genetic test

obesity risk prediction

early life markers

pediatric health

obesity prevention

personalized medicine

In a recent study published in Nature Medicine, an international group of scientists analyzed genetic information from more than five million individuals—by far the biggest and most diverse dataset ever. They may have just created an effective tool for finding children at risk of becoming obese before signs appear on the scale. The outcome is a polygenic risk score that's already being shown to be twice as accurate as earlier measures at predicting future obesity risk—particularly in people of European descent.Obesity is more than a cosmetic or lifestyle problem—it's a multifaceted disease with genetic, environmental, and behavioral roots. Obesity has increased more than twice in the world in adults and fourfold in teenagers since 1990, states the World Health Organization. In the United States, the issue is even more severe: more than 40% of adults and almost 20% of children and teens live with obesity, reports the CDC.The sooner we can detect those at risk, the more likely we are to be able to intervene with approaches such as tailored diet, behavior modification, or exercise—before irreversible harm is done. And that's where this new gene test has potential."Childhood is the best time to intervene," said Professor Ruth Loos at the University of Copenhagen and one of the study's senior authors.How Does Polygenic Risk Score Work?At its core lies the polygenic risk score (PRS), a measure that sums the impact of thousands of genetic variants linked to body mass index (BMI). Earlier versions of PRS were able to explain around 8.5% of an individual's future risk of obesity, but the new one can account for as much as 17.6%—a significant increase in predictive capability.This is how it works: a child's DNA is gathered by means of a routine blood test. That DNA is tested for established genetic markers that affect traits such as appetite, fat storage, metabolism, and reaction to weight loss treatment. The greater the number of risk variants someone has, the greater their polygenic score—and their risk of developing obesity as an adult.This type of anticipation provides pediatricians and parents with a window of opportunity to intervene early using lifestyle modification aimed at the child's genetic profile.Perhaps the most compelling part of this study is how it justifies an increased focus on precision health. Not all weight gain is equal—and neither are all weight loss strategies. Some individuals react favorably to protocol diets or physical exercise, while others do not. Genetics can account for some of that heterogeneity.In order to achieve sustainable losses, researchers learned that for people with a high genetic risk, the response to interventions was frequently higher—but the weight also came back faster once intervention ended. This implies that longer-term assistance, not one-time programs, is key for individuals with greater genetic risk."While the test says who could gain weight, it says who could also gain most from early and continuous support," said lead author Assistant Professor Roelof Smit.What Are Some Challenges To This Tool?Although the new PRS is revolutionary, it's not flawless. Its largest flaw is that it's much less predictive for individuals of non-European descent. In the East Asian participants, it accounted for 16% of BMI variation. In rural Ugandans, the predictive ability fell to only 2.2%.That's a big problem. About 70% of the subjects in the study were of European descent, and just 1.5% South Asian. Researchers do note the imbalance and emphasize the necessity for more diverse genetic information in order to gain higher accuracy across populations."We need to create datasets that more accurately capture the entire scope of human diversity," said Loos. "Only then can tools such as this be fair and useful for all.Why Obesity Suddenly Becoming Global Health Crisis?Even as there is so much excitement around this breakthrough, it's worth keeping in mind the extent of the problem. Obesity is still one of the most prevalent chronic diseases in the world. It enormously increases the likelihood of heart disease, diabetes, some cancers, and shorter life expectancy. An estimated more than half of the planet's population may be overweight or obese by 2035, as per the World Obesity Federation.In England, almost 65% of adults are obese or overweight. In America, the prevalence is even more severe, with almost 2 out of 5 adults and 1 out of 5 children impacted. Social determinants such as income, education, and food access continue to fuel disparities—particularly among non-Hispanic Black adults and lower-income populations.That's why researchers are stressing that this gene test is just part of the puzzle. Obesity isn't genetically determined—it's also about the world we live in.What's important to realize is that a high polygenic risk score doesn't sentence a child to obesity—it's a risk, but not a fate. Environment, behavior, and choice all still play really important roles. But with that early genetic knowledge, families and doctors can get ahead of a kid's biology, instead of fighting against it.Picture a pediatric appointment in the not-too-distant future where, in addition to standard screenings, your child's DNA is scanned for risk of obesity. If their polygenic score is elevated, they may be presented with a tailored prevention regimen that adapts with their growth—well before the number on the scale is a problem.This novel gene-strengthening tool is currently in the proof-of-concept stage. Researchers are now urging larger and more varied studies to perfect the score and assess its utility in clinical practice. The hope is to build genetics into standard pediatric practice in an ethical, equitable, and empowering manner.In the meantime, this study represents a promising milestone in revolutionizing the way that we learn about, forecast, and avoid obesity—right from the beginning of life.

childhood obesity can be predicted with a genetic test: scientists identify early-life markers that signal risk

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