The human eye has long been considered a window to the soul, but modern science reveals its potential for being a diagnostic window toward our health. Researchers have already discovered that in the retina – the light-sensitive layer at the back of the human eye – resides an intricate network of blood vessels that can foretell crucial elements about a person's risk to stroke. This finding is a non-invasive and accessible approach to predicting stroke, hence challenging the dependency on the classic risk factors alone, such as high cholesterol or blood pressure. Recent research published in the journal Heart identified a "vascular fingerprint" in the retina, comprising 29 indicators of blood vessel health.

This fingerprint can predict the likelihood of a stroke with accuracy comparable to conventional methods. These indicators include characteristics like the density, twistedness, and complexity of retinal veins and arteries, which mirror the vascular architecture of the brain.

This innovative approach is particularly promising for primary healthcare settings and resource-constrained environments, where invasive lab tests may not be feasible. The potential to assess stroke risk through a simple retinal scan marks a significant leap in preventive medicine.

The researchers, who include those from The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital in Australia, analyzed fundus images, which are specialized photographs of the retina from more than 68,000 participants in the UK Biobank dataset. Over an average follow-up period of 12.5 years, 749 of those participants had a stroke.

The researchers used advanced machine learning models, such as the Retina-based Microvascular Health Assessment System (RMHAS), to study 30 indicators in five key categories of retinal vascular architecture.

These categories included calibre, which measured the length, diameter, and ratio of veins and arteries; density, which focused on the distribution of blood vessels in the retina; twistedness, analyzing the curvature and patterns of the vascular network; branching angle, which examined how veins and arteries split into smaller branches; and complexity, which evaluated the overall intricacy of the vascular network. In the study, age, sex, socioeconomic status, lifestyle habits, and health parameters, including blood pressure and cholesterol levels, were taken into account to ensure that the findings were robust. The analysis showed that 29 out of 118 retinal vascular indicators are significantly associated with first-time stroke risk.

Changes in density indicators corresponded to 10-19% increased risks of stroke; alterations in calibre indicators were accompanied by a 10-14% increase. Other studies have suggested that decreases in complexity and twistedness indicators corresponded to a 10.5-19.5% higher risk of stroke. These data support the retinal imaging non-invasive diagnostic tool for prediction of early stroke.

Amazingly, the retinal vascular fingerprint alone, in combination with only age and sex, was as good at predicting stroke risk as traditional methods that rely on invasive tests.

How the Retina is Connected to your Brain

Retinal blood vessels bear anatomical and physiological resemblance to those in the brain. Given this, it is an attractive organ for understanding the systemic health of the vasculature. Many diseases, for example, which damage blood vessels throughout the body, leave evidence in the retinal microvascular network. Diabetic retinopathy and hypertensive retinopathy are examples.

The study does have several limitations with this being an observational research, and so it cannot claim to establish any cause-and-effect relationships. The research was also primarily conducted on whites, which makes the findings a little less generalizable to a diverse population. Future studies would be better in including a range of ethnicities and exploring the risk of stroke associated with the type of stroke.

Simple Method To Detect Stroke Risk

Traditional stroke risk assessment is often confined to blood studies and imaging studies; however, these tools are not freely available in some low-resource settings. Retinal photography provides a completely non-invasive imaging modality. All that will be needed will be a basic photograph of an eye.

It is, therefore, through the introduction of artificial intelligence that has been a game-changer in retinal imaging. Systems like RMHAS rely on machine learning to pick out patterns and biomarkers that the human eye might not identify. Such improvements not only enhance predictive accuracy but also speed up the process while making it more cost-effective.

Also Read: 3 Shocking Stroke Risk Factors You Need To Control NOW

Prevention of Stroke through Early Detection

Stroke is one of the leading global health concerns, causing nearly 100 million cases a year and killing 6.7 million people. The majority of the cases are due to modifiable risk factors, including high blood pressure, poor diet, and smoking. The early warning system could help individuals and healthcare providers act proactively on these risks by providing an early warning system.

The discovery of the vascular fingerprint of the retina as a predictor of stroke risk is a testament to the power of innovative diagnostics. This non-invasive, accessible method may revolutionize stroke prevention, especially in underserved communities. As research continues to refine this approach and broaden its applicability, the eye may soon become an essential tool in safeguarding our brain health.

Every Day Tips to Prevent Stroke and Detect Risks Early

The good news is that strokes can be prevented in most cases by living a healthy lifestyle, coupled with knowing the early warning indicators. Implement these tips daily and prevent your risk for stroke before it gets too late.

- High blood pressure is one of the leading risk factors for stroke. Uncontrolled hypertension can weaken blood vessels, making them more prone to rupture or blockage. Invest in a home blood pressure monitor to check your readings regularly. Maintain a target of 120/80 mmHg by reducing salt intake, staying physically active, and adhering to prescribed medications.

- Unhealthy eating habits, such as diets with high levels of processed foods, saturated fats, and cholesterol, can lead to obesity and blocked arteries. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats is key. Include leafy greens, berries, nuts, and fish high in omega-3s, which help maintain cardiovascular health.

- Regular physical activity lowers the risk of high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes, three leading causes of stroke. Try to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity a week. Examples include brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. Also incorporate strength training to help strengthen your blood vessels.

- Smoking harms your blood vessels, promotes blood clots, and reduces the oxygen in your blood. Overconsumption of alcohol can raise your blood pressure and lead to weight gain. Quit smoking with support groups, counseling, or nicotine replacement therapy. Limit your intake of alcohol to moderate levels; that is, one drink a day for women and two for men.

- Unmanaged conditions, such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and atrial fibrillation, significantly increase stroke risk. Work with your healthcare provider to monitor and manage these conditions. For example, maintain blood sugar levels within target ranges for diabetes and take anticoagulants if diagnosed with atrial fibrillation.

- Obesity strains the cardiovascular system and increases the risk for stroke. Have a healthy diet along with regular exercise to have a sustainable weight loss. Small, consistent changes in, say, portion control or simply not having too many sugary drinks may make a big difference.

- As a result of this, dehydration could thicken blood, then clots might form. Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day. Include hydrating foods like cucumbers and watermelon in your diet, especially during hot weather or exercise.

- Poor sleep quality increases blood pressure, triggers inflammation, and raises stroke risk. Ensure 7-8 hours of sleep at night. Develop a bedtime routine: reduce screen time, have a regular schedule, and avoid caffeine close to bedtime.

- Acting fast during a stroke can prevent long-term damage and save lives. Learn the FAST acronym:

F: Face drooping

A: Arm weakness

S: Difficulty speaking T: Time to call 911

- Regular medical check-ups can identify and manage stroke risk factors before they lead to a stroke. Make an annual physical to track cholesterol, blood pressure, and other essential health markers. If you have a family history of stroke, discuss retinal imaging or carotid artery screening with your physician.

Retinal vascular fingerprints predict incident stroke: findings from the UK Biobank cohort study. Heart. 2025

In today’s fitness-obsessed world, being in good shape is often equated with being healthy. But that assumption is increasingly being challenged. You might clock your daily steps, hit the gym, and look lean in the mirror, yet your body may still be signalling distress from the inside. And the problem usually lies in the gut.

The growing evidence shows how a well-sculpted exterior does not always reflect internal well-being. Fitness is not enough to ensure health. The gut microbiome may be the silent disruptor behind many metabolic issues, even in those who appear outwardly fit.

In fact, a review by the Indian Council of Medical Research found that more than 71 per cent of Indian adults are metabolically unhealthy despite looking lean. This startling figure highlights a crucial gap in our understanding of what it really means to be healthy.

Also Read: As China Revives COVID-Era Measures To Beat Chikungunya Virus, Here's All You Should Know About This Mosquito-borne Disease

What Does “Fit but Not Healthy” Mean? Expert Explains

“Even top-level athletes can develop overtraining syndrome,” Dr. Dhar explains, describing this as a condition marked by systemic inflammation, hormonal imbalance, and metabolic dysfunction. And at the heart of it, he notes, is often a disrupted gut microbiome.

He warns that a dysfunctional gut flora does not just impact digestion; it can lead to inflammation, reduce insulin sensitivity, interfere with lipid metabolism, and elevate the risk of chronic conditions. “Even world-class athletes are not immune,” he adds.

The Gut-Fitness Connection

But, he cautions, “Overtraining or intense workout regimens can backfire.” When pushed too far, physical activity can damage the gut lining, increase inflammation, and throw off microbial balance, a state known as dysbiosis.

“So, while exercise is crucial, it has to be done in a way that complements gut health,” he advises.

Gut Microbiome Plays A Crucial Role

“When this balance is disturbed, we see the emergence of conditions like chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and even obesity,” he says. This microbial imbalance often remains hidden, as most people rely on weight or BMI as their main health markers.

He points out how even something seemingly harmless, like eating a few cookies a day, can slowly tip the scales of gut balance and trigger low-grade inflammation. “This kind of hidden obesity often flies under the radar,” says Dr. Dhar.

Moving Toward True Health

• Focus on dietary diversity: Eating a wide variety of plant-based foods supports microbial diversity and resilience.
• Include prebiotics and probiotics: He recommends incorporating fermented foods and fibre-rich legumes, noting their benefits for mood, weight, and metabolic health.
• Balance exercise intensity: Moderate exercise enhances gut health, but too much intensity can be harmful.
• Monitor metabolic health: He urges people not to rely solely on weigh-ins. Regular metabolic screenings and, where possible, microbiome testing can uncover hidden health risks early.

Being in shape is not a guarantee of being healthy. Without good gut health, even disciplined exercise and a lean appearance can mask deeper problems like inflammation or insulin resistance. Dr. Dhar calls the gut our “second brain” and insists it deserves more attention than it typically receives. It is time to stop obsessing over what we see in the mirror and start listening to the internal cues.

True health, he concludes, lies in nurturing the gut through balanced movement, diverse diets, quality sleep, and stress management.

China Chikungunya Virus: More than 7,000 cases of Chikungunya have been reported from China's Foshan, confirmed the government report. The Chinese authorities, as a result, have taken measures to curb the spread of chikungunya, a virus known for causing fever and joint pain. The Health and Me has reported on the methods, including the use of biological weapons as the different breed of mosquitoes, namely, the elephant mosquitoes to combat the larvae carrying the chikungunya virus. Other health measures like tests, complying by the government orders, and fines if not, have been taken too, which has resulted it into being called the 'COVID-era' measure.

How Did China Combat COVID-19?

A 2022 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, notes that during the COVID-19 pandemic, criminal acts that seriously violated pandemic prevention and control provisions were subjected to criminal punishment.

For instance, acts casing the spread of coronavirus, or posing a serious risk of spreading would constitute as a crime under the Article 330 of the Criminal Law of the People's Republic of China.

If one obstructs the state functionaries from carrying out pandemic investigation to the law by means of violence or threat would be considered a crime under Article 277.

Driving up prices or seeking exorbitant profits or making illegal income would be considered a crime under Article 225.

For those who spread false information online would also be considered criminals under the Article 291.

Chinese courts have tried criminal cases involving pandemic prevention and control in accordance with the law, punished criminal acts that harmed the public interest and the quality of health and life, and demonstrated the important role of judicial bodies in ensuring the quality of public health and life.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, in order to control the situation and ensure public order, Chinese government departments at all levels gained more administrative law enforcement authority, notes the study.

ALSO READ: Mosquitoes Deployed To Kill Virus-Carrying Mosquito Larvae: How China Is Using Biological Weapons To Wage War Against Chikungunya

How Has China 'Revived' Covid-Era Measures For Chikungunya Outbreak?

Foshan has asked pharmacies to report identities of people who buy any of the 47 drugs to relieve chikungunya symptoms such as fever, rash, and join pain. The notice was issued by the city's Market Supervision Bureau. This is a similar policy adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic, where pharmacies would trigger a pop-up on an individual's health code, for the government to track. This will also limit their movement and subject them for a mandatory test.

Like COVID-19 measures, a campaign for disinfecting areas has been launched in Foshan, for seven days, which will also include community mobilization to clear stagnant water and promoting use of window screens and mosquito nets.

In pandemic, those who failed to comply by the government rules were expected to submit a fine, or were punished. In a similar manner, hotels, restaurants and companies that failed to clean up stagnant water would face a fine up to 1,000 yuan, which is roughly $139. As per an illustrated government explainer, those who do not cooperate could be fined, or face criminal charges for "obstructing the prevention of infectious diseases". In fact, five households had their electricity cut for not cooperating.

Travellers directories are also being maintained, especially of those who have symptoms such as fever, headache, and joint pain.

ALSO READ: US Weighs China Travel Warning As Chikungunya Cases Near 5,000: Report

What Is Chikungunya?

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral illness that causes fever and intense joint pain, often leaving patients debilitated for days or even weeks. Though it shares symptoms with dengue and Zika, chikungunya is a distinct disease caused by the chikungunya virus (CHIKV), primarily transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. These mosquitoes bite mostly during daylight and breed in stagnant water.

Global Distribution and Outbreaks

CHIKV was first identified in Tanzania in 1952, notes WHO. Initially seen in Africa and Asia, the virus has since spread rapidly. Since 2004, it has caused outbreaks in over 110 countries, including those in the Americas and Europe. The increase in cases is partly due to viral mutations that make it easier for Aedes albopictus to transmit the virus, and partly due to the virus entering populations with no prior immunity. In places where most of the population gets infected and recovers, transmission often slows down. However, in regions with low infection rates, the virus continues to circulate.

How It Spreads

Symptoms and Risks

Symptoms usually appear 4–8 days after being bitten. The illness begins with sudden fever and severe joint pain, especially in the hands and feet, which may last from days to months. Other symptoms include muscle pain, fatigue, rash, nausea, and headache. Because these overlap with dengue and Zika, misdiagnosis is common.

While most patients recover fully, some develop eye, heart, or neurological complications. Infants and older adults, especially those with existing health conditions, are more prone to severe illness and may need hospitalization. Thankfully, fatalities are rare. Once recovered, individuals are believed to have lifelong immunity.

ALSO READ: Medical Memoir: How Chikungunya, A Tanzinian Virus Affected Millions Throughout The World

Diagnosis and Treatment

CHIKV can be confirmed using RT-PCR tests in the first week of illness. Antibody tests can also detect past infections within the first two months after symptoms begin. There is no specific antiviral treatment. Supportive care includes paracetamol for pain and fever, rest, and plenty of fluids. NSAIDs should be avoided until dengue is ruled out, due to bleeding risks.

Vaccines and Prevention

Two vaccines have received regulatory approvals in some countries but are not yet in widespread use. WHO is reviewing data to decide on future vaccine recommendations. Until then, the best protection is prevention.

Key steps include:

• Eliminating mosquito breeding sites by emptying water containers weekly
• Wearing long clothing
• Using window screens and insect repellents containing DEET, IR3535 or icaridin
• Using insecticide-treated nets, especially for those sleeping during the day
• Avoiding mosquito bites during the first week of illness to stop further spread

The first period is a significant moment in the life of a young girl, however, when it happens, the age, plays a much more important role than we realize. National Health Services UK explains that periods can start as early as 8, however the average age is about 12.

A new study showcased in the ENDO Annual Meeting 2025, Endocrine Society from Brazil has found that the age a woman gets her first period, also known as menarche, could provide important clues about her future health. The study shows that both starting your period very early or very late can lead to different health problems later in life.

Different Risks for Different Ages

The age a woman gets her first period (menarche) and the age she reaches menopause mark the beginning and end of her reproductive life. The study looked at data from over 7,600 women in Brazil. It found a link between the timing of menarche and long-term health risks.

Early Menarche

Women who got their first period before age 10 were more likely to have health issues like obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart problems. They also had a higher risk of reproductive issues like pre-eclampsia.

Late Menarche

Women who started their period after age 15 were less likely to be obese. However, they faced a greater risk of menstrual problems and some specific heart conditions.

What This Means for Women's Health

According to the study's author, Flávia Rezende Tinano, these findings confirm how the timing of puberty can affect a woman's health over many years. She explains that knowing when a woman had her first period can help doctors identify those who might be at a higher risk for certain diseases. This information can lead to more personalized health screenings and preventative care.

The study is one of the largest of its kind in a developing country. It provides valuable data for populations, like those in Latin America, that have been underrepresented in past research. The researchers believe that these findings highlight the need for early health education for young girls and women.

How Timing Reveals Health Risks For Women

A 2013 study published in the Adolescent Health Medicine and Therapeutics journal explained that the timing of these key events can provide important clues about her long-term health. Both very early and very late timing of menarche or menopause have been linked to a higher risk of health problems. Because of this, understanding the connection between these two events could help with preventing chronic diseases. Scientific studies from various fields, including biology, nutrition, and psychology, have looked at the relationship between menarche and menopause.

Early or Late Timing Matters: A woman's age at menarche and menopause is a key sign of her body's aging and how her ovaries are functioning.

Health Connections: Both starting periods very early or very late are linked to different health and social risks later in life.

While many studies have explored the link between menarche and menopause, the results have been mixed. Out of 36 studies reviewed, ten found a direct link, meaning an earlier first period was connected to an earlier menopause. Two studies found the opposite, and the rest found no connection at all. Researchers believe that many things affect the timing of these events, including:

• Hormones and environment
• Socioeconomic status
• Stress throughout life
• Body size and height