Health and Me

Ishita Roy

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients On Rise By 40% In Japan, Reveals Study

One of the most ignored health condition, the <span>Inflammatory Bowel Disease</span> or the <span>IBD</span> affects 4.9 million people globally, notes the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This condition also includes Crohn's disease and <span>ulcerative colitis</span>. NIH calls its a 'silent' disease since most of the times the symptoms are dismissed as stress or normal stomach issues. This is what leads to diagnostic delays. 

A recent study conducted by a health ministry team from Toho University, Kyorin University and Osaka Metropolitan University, published in the Journal of Gastroenterology noted that Japan is witnessing a rapid surg in chronic IBD, with patient numbers rising by nearly 40% in just eight years. 

The study also estimated that by 2023, the country had around 316,900 patients with ulcerative colitis and 95,700 with <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/crohns-disease">Crohn’s disease</a></span>. In comparison, the previous nationwide survey in 2015 counted 220,000 ulcerative colitis cases and 71,000 Crohn’s patients.

In other numbers, this means Japan had 254.8 cases of ulcerative colitis and 77 cases of Crohn's per 100,000 people. This, when compared to a 1991 survey, revealed that patients now have a tenfold increase, this could be the new dramatic long-term trend.

As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), IBD refers to a group of lifelong diseases that affect your intestines. The main types of IBD are ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. 

Ulcerative colitis affects the large intestine, while Crohn’s disease can inflame any part of the digestive tract. Both are lifelong conditions of unknown cause that trigger abdominal pain, diarrhea and other complications, with no known cure. Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe resigned twice, in 2007 and 2020, due to ulcerative colitis, as reported by the Japan Times.

These diseases are recognized as "designated intractable disease" under the Japanese law. This means that the patients are entitled to have government support. This category is only applicable to rare, incurable illnesses that require a life-long care. This condition affects fewer than 0.1% of Japan's population.

Researchers have also noted that their latest estimates also include mild cases and patients who are not covered by government medical certificates. This also shows a very clear national burden. The study also stressed the need for continued monitoring to guide treatment, prevention strategies and health policy. 

<h2>What Are The Symptoms Of IBD That People Usually Ignore?</h2>

<ul><li>Diarrhea or changes in bowel movements</li><li>Stomach pain</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Nausea</li><li>Weight loss</li></ul>

There are also symptoms that may come and go:

Remission: this refers to periods when symptoms temporarily go away

<strong>Flare-ups: </strong>this refers to periods where the symptoms are increased

IBD can also lead to health complications, which could be in both inside the gastrointestinal GI tract and outside the GI tract, also known as extraintestinal manifestations. 

<h2>What Complications Inside Or Outside GI Happens?</h2>

<ul><li>Dehydration</li><li>Not absorbing enough essential nutrients</li><li>Increased risk of colon and rectal cancers</li></ul>

<ul><li>Low red blood cell count (anemia)</li><li>Reduced bone density</li><li>Joint pain</li><li>Skin changes</li><li>Eye irritation</li><li>Delayed or impaired growth in some children</li></ul>

Health Conditions A-Z

health

inflammatory bowel disease

health and wellness

Crohn’s Disease

ulcerative colitis

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One of the most ignored health condition, the Inflammatory Bowel Disease or the IBD affects 4.9 million people globally, notes the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This condition also includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. NIH calls its a 'silent' disease since most of the times the symptoms are dismissed as stress or normal stomach issues. This is what leads to diagnostic delays. A recent study conducted by a health ministry team from Toho University, Kyorin University and Osaka Metropolitan University, published in the Journal of Gastroenterology noted that Japan is witnessing a rapid surg in chronic IBD, with patient numbers rising by nearly 40% in just eight years. The study also estimated that by 2023, the country had around 316,900 patients with ulcerative colitis and 95,700 with Crohn’s disease. In comparison, the previous nationwide survey in 2015 counted 220,000 ulcerative colitis cases and 71,000 Crohn’s patients.In other numbers, this means Japan had 254.8 cases of ulcerative colitis and 77 cases of Crohn's per 100,000 people. This, when compared to a 1991 survey, revealed that patients now have a tenfold increase, this could be the new dramatic long-term trend.What Is IBD?As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), IBD refers to a group of lifelong diseases that affect your intestines. The main types of IBD are ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Ulcerative colitis affects the large intestine, while Crohn’s disease can inflame any part of the digestive tract. Both are lifelong conditions of unknown cause that trigger abdominal pain, diarrhea and other complications, with no known cure. Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe resigned twice, in 2007 and 2020, due to ulcerative colitis, as reported by the Japan Times.These diseases are recognized as "designated intractable disease" under the Japanese law. This means that the patients are entitled to have government support. This category is only applicable to rare, incurable illnesses that require a life-long care. This condition affects fewer than 0.1% of Japan's population.Researchers have also noted that their latest estimates also include mild cases and patients who are not covered by government medical certificates. This also shows a very clear national burden. The study also stressed the need for continued monitoring to guide treatment, prevention strategies and health policy. What Are The Symptoms Of IBD That People Usually Ignore?Diarrhea or changes in bowel movementsStomach painFatigueNauseaWeight lossThere are also symptoms that may come and go:Remission: this refers to periods when symptoms temporarily go awayFlare-ups: this refers to periods where the symptoms are increasedIBD can also lead to health complications, which could be in both inside the gastrointestinal GI tract and outside the GI tract, also known as extraintestinal manifestations. What Complications Inside Or Outside GI Happens?Inside the GI Tract:DehydrationNot absorbing enough essential nutrientsIncreased risk of colon and rectal cancersOutside the GI Tract:Low red blood cell count (anemia)Reduced bone densityJoint painSkin changesEye irritationDelayed or impaired growth in some children

inflammatory bowel disease patients on rise by 40% in japan, reveals study

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A <span>bone glue</span> can fix your fracture, and this could be a landmark breakthrough in medicine by a team of researchers from <span>China</span>. Fractures are one of the most challenging conditions in modern medicine and while they are among the most common clinical injuries, the recovery period takes most time. The consequences of a fracture too differs across ages and causes disability risks in young and middle-aged adults, and mortality risks for the elderly. While medicine and technology have advanced, the recovery time still makes it difficult for many to cope with. 

A recent research breakthrough in China, inspired by nature and powered by biomedical innovation has developed a <span>bone adhesive</span> called 'Bone 02'. The glue has shown promising results in its earlier clinical use. The advancement could also transform the way doctors treat complex fractures, and move beyond the limitations that are posed by surgical methods.

The adhesive is said to be a quick fix for comminuted fracture, which is a serious bone break where the bone shatters into three or more fragments. This is unlike a simple fracture that breaks cleanly into two pieces. 

<h2>Why Comminuted Fractures Are Difficult To Treat</h2>

Fixing multiple tiny bone fragments at once is orthopaedics' greatest challenge. While conventional metal fixation device fixes most fractures, it cannot achieve precise alignment and also makes the surgery time consuming and highly invasive. 

In many cases, bone fragments are also lost or fail to heal correctly and it could then lead to complications such as nonunion or post-traumatic arthritis. 

The impact is especially severe when fractures occur in joints, and that is when even with minor irregularities, it can permanently affect mobility and cause long-term pain. This is also the reason why, surgeons, world-wide are searching for a minimally invasive method, which can simplify the procedure and also improve outcomes. 

<h2>Inspired By Nature, A Quick Fix For Bones</h2>

The innovation is not just sudden, the seeds were planted decades ago, when veteran orthopedic expert Professor Fan Shunwu imagined a material that could bond bones together. Years later, the vision was passed on to the younger lot of researchers who found the inspiration from oysters. 

It was during a visit home when Dr Lin Xianfeng noticed how oyster shells remained firmly attached to concrete bridge bases, even after years of tidal waves. If they remain to remain stuck even in humid and wet environment, then can it also work inside the human body?

The problem with glue, any glue, for that matter is that they do not work in water. So, can oyster solve that very problem?

This idea sparked a long research journey. The team tackled challenges such as finding the right biocompatible material, refining manufacturing methods, and validating safety through rigorous testing. Eventually, their persistence led to the development of a new adhesive that met three critical goals:

<ul><li>Strong adhesion in blood-filled surgical environments</li><li>Efficient and simple application during surgery</li><li>Complete biodegradability within six months</li></ul>

Bone 02 is a nod to the household 502 glue, and it is designed to offer strong bonding of bones. Unlike screws or plates, it can secure even the minute and tiniest bone fragments with minimal trauma. 

The glue has passed 150 trials across Chinese hospitals and has demonstrated encouraging results. In one of the case studies, a young worker with comminuted wrist fracture underwent the treatment that would have otherwise required a large incision and metal implants and spinal fixation. If trials continue to show success, this could mark the beginning of a systemic shift in orthopedic treatment.

glue bone

china

bone glue

bone adhesive

A bone glue can fix your fracture, and this could be a landmark breakthrough in medicine by a team of researchers from China. Fractures are one of the most challenging conditions in modern medicine and while they are among the most common clinical injuries, the recovery period takes most time. The consequences of a fracture too differs across ages and causes disability risks in young and middle-aged adults, and mortality risks for the elderly. While medicine and technology have advanced, the recovery time still makes it difficult for many to cope with. A recent research breakthrough in China, inspired by nature and powered by biomedical innovation has developed a bone adhesive called 'Bone 02'. The glue has shown promising results in its earlier clinical use. The advancement could also transform the way doctors treat complex fractures, and move beyond the limitations that are posed by surgical methods.        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Omar Agamy (@omaragamyy)]]> The adhesive is said to be a quick fix for comminuted fracture, which is a serious bone break where the bone shatters into three or more fragments. This is unlike a simple fracture that breaks cleanly into two pieces. Why Comminuted Fractures Are Difficult To TreatFixing multiple tiny bone fragments at once is orthopaedics' greatest challenge. While conventional metal fixation device fixes most fractures, it cannot achieve precise alignment and also makes the surgery time consuming and highly invasive. In many cases, bone fragments are also lost or fail to heal correctly and it could then lead to complications such as nonunion or post-traumatic arthritis. The impact is especially severe when fractures occur in joints, and that is when even with minor irregularities, it can permanently affect mobility and cause long-term pain. This is also the reason why, surgeons, world-wide are searching for a minimally invasive method, which can simplify the procedure and also improve outcomes. Inspired By Nature, A Quick Fix For BonesThe innovation is not just sudden, the seeds were planted decades ago, when veteran orthopedic expert Professor Fan Shunwu imagined a material that could bond bones together. Years later, the vision was passed on to the younger lot of researchers who found the inspiration from oysters. It was during a visit home when Dr Lin Xianfeng noticed how oyster shells remained firmly attached to concrete bridge bases, even after years of tidal waves. If they remain to remain stuck even in humid and wet environment, then can it also work inside the human body?The problem with glue, any glue, for that matter is that they do not work in water. So, can oyster solve that very problem?This idea sparked a long research journey. The team tackled challenges such as finding the right biocompatible material, refining manufacturing methods, and validating safety through rigorous testing. Eventually, their persistence led to the development of a new adhesive that met three critical goals:Strong adhesion in blood-filled surgical environmentsEfficient and simple application during surgeryComplete biodegradability within six months'Bone 02': How Does This Bone Glue Work?Bone 02 is a nod to the household 502 glue, and it is designed to offer strong bonding of bones. Unlike screws or plates, it can secure even the minute and tiniest bone fragments with minimal trauma. The glue has passed 150 trials across Chinese hospitals and has demonstrated encouraging results. In one of the case studies, a young worker with comminuted wrist fracture underwent the treatment that would have otherwise required a large incision and metal implants and spinal fixation. If trials continue to show success, this could mark the beginning of a systemic shift in orthopedic treatment.

china now has an oyster-inspired bone glue to fix broken bones in minutes

Itisha Arya

Can Cocoa Keep You Young? Study Links It to Slower Aging

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In a world where everyone seems to be chasing the secret to healthy <span>aging</span>, whether through expensive creams or trendy supplements, researchers might have found an unexpectedly sweet solution: cocoa. Yes, the same bean behind your favourite chocolate bar may do more than lift your spirits, it could help your body and heart age more gracefully.

<h2><span rel="noindex">Cocoa Extract</span> Could Slow Aging Process In Adults, Reveals Study</h2>A new study by Mass General Brigham looked at how cocoa supplements might fight the kind of low-level chronic inflammation that comes with age, often called “inflammaging.” Researchers from the COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS) found that cocoa extract helped lower high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), a marker linked to heart disease. This may help explain earlier findings that cocoa can reduce heart-related deaths by nearly 27%.

Between 2014 and 2020, more than 21,000 adults aged 60 and above took part in COSMOS. This latest analysis followed 598 of them over two years. Those taking cocoa supplements saw their hsCRP levels drop by about 8.4% each year, compared to those on a placebo. While other inflammation markers showed smaller or mixed results, one immune-related protein, interferon-γ, increased, hinting at exciting new areas for research.

Inflammaging refers to a slow, chronic inflammation that develops as we age, often without obvious symptoms. This ongoing low-grade inflammation is marked by higher levels of pro-inflammatory molecules in the body and is linked to many age-related conditions, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, and frailty. Studies by Colorado State University suggest that inflammaging plays a central role in the aging process and makes older adults more vulnerable to illness and complications.

Heart disease remains the number one cause of death in the United States, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting that one person dies every 34 seconds from cardiovascular disease. That’s why findings like these matter.

“While cocoa extract is not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle, these results are encouraging and highlight its potential role in modulating inflammation as we age,” said Yanbin Dong, Ph.D., senior study author and director of Augusta University’s Georgia Prevention Institute, in a news release.

<h2><span rel="noindex">Healthier Ageing</span> with Cocoa</h2>

Experts say much of cocoa’s potential benefits come from flavanols, natural compounds found not just in cocoa beans, but also in tea, berries, and grapes. These small but powerful compounds have been linked to reduced inflammation and better blood vessel function. With large-scale human data now supporting these effects, scientists are increasingly optimistic about their role in slowing age-related diseases.

Dr. Howard Sesso, a senior researcher on the study, explains: “Our interest in cocoa started with its links to heart health. Now, we're seeing that it might be acting through age-related inflammation.”

While cocoa extract shows promising potential in slowing age-related inflammation and supporting heart health, it isn’t a magic bullet. Experts emphasize that the key to healthier aging remains a balanced lifestyle, regular exercise, a nutrient-rich diet, quality sleep, and routine health check-ups.

healthier ageing

cocoa extract

inflammaging

cocoa powder

aging

ageing

In a world where everyone seems to be chasing the secret to healthy aging, whether through expensive creams or trendy supplements, researchers might have found an unexpectedly sweet solution: cocoa. Yes, the same bean behind your favourite chocolate bar may do more than lift your spirits, it could help your body and heart age more gracefully.Cocoa Extract Could Slow Aging Process In Adults, Reveals StudyA new study by Mass General Brigham looked at how cocoa supplements might fight the kind of low-level chronic inflammation that comes with age, often called “inflammaging.” Researchers from the COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS) found that cocoa extract helped lower high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), a marker linked to heart disease. This may help explain earlier findings that cocoa can reduce heart-related deaths by nearly 27%.Between 2014 and 2020, more than 21,000 adults aged 60 and above took part in COSMOS. This latest analysis followed 598 of them over two years. Those taking cocoa supplements saw their hsCRP levels drop by about 8.4% each year, compared to those on a placebo. While other inflammation markers showed smaller or mixed results, one immune-related protein, interferon-γ, increased, hinting at exciting new areas for research.What Is Inflammaging?Inflammaging refers to a slow, chronic inflammation that develops as we age, often without obvious symptoms. This ongoing low-grade inflammation is marked by higher levels of pro-inflammatory molecules in the body and is linked to many age-related conditions, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, and frailty. Studies by Colorado State University suggest that inflammaging plays a central role in the aging process and makes older adults more vulnerable to illness and complications.Heart disease remains the number one cause of death in the United States, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting that one person dies every 34 seconds from cardiovascular disease. That’s why findings like these matter.“While cocoa extract is not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle, these results are encouraging and highlight its potential role in modulating inflammation as we age,” said Yanbin Dong, Ph.D., senior study author and director of Augusta University’s Georgia Prevention Institute, in a news release.Healthier Ageing with CocoaExperts say much of cocoa’s potential benefits come from flavanols, natural compounds found not just in cocoa beans, but also in tea, berries, and grapes. These small but powerful compounds have been linked to reduced inflammation and better blood vessel function. With large-scale human data now supporting these effects, scientists are increasingly optimistic about their role in slowing age-related diseases.Dr. Howard Sesso, a senior researcher on the study, explains: “Our interest in cocoa started with its links to heart health. Now, we're seeing that it might be acting through age-related inflammation.”While cocoa extract shows promising potential in slowing age-related inflammation and supporting heart health, it isn’t a magic bullet. Experts emphasize that the key to healthier aging remains a balanced lifestyle, regular exercise, a nutrient-rich diet, quality sleep, and routine health check-ups.

can cocoa keep you young? study links it to slower aging

Is Your Body Aging Too Quickly? 5 Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

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Aging is a natural process. It happens when the rate at which our cells die begins to outpace the rate at which they regenerate. Every cell in the body has its own lifespan, for example, red blood cells live for around 100 to 120 days, while liver cells (hepatocytes) last about 200 to 300 days. Over time, as regeneration slows, the signs of aging begin to appear.

However, in some people, this process speeds up. Factors like long-term exposure to toxins, severe physical trauma, metabolic disorders such as cancer, or the failure of vital organs can push the body into premature aging. We got in touch with Dr Saurish Hegde, MD community medicine, Public health specialist who told us more about the same.

<h2>Warning Signs You May Be Aging Faster</h2>

<ul><li>Constant <span rel="noindex">fatigue</span> and loss of energy: Everyday tasks feel harder, and the body tires more quickly than before.</li><li>Skin and hair changes: Reduced <span rel="noindex">collagen</span> and keratin production leads to sagging, wrinkles, and thinning or loss of hair.</li><li>Cognitive decline: Memory lapses, difficulty in planning, and problems with calculations may point to aging-related changes in the brain as grey matter begins to shrink.</li><li>Chronic conditions: Lifestyle diseases like <span rel="noindex">diabetes</span> and hypertension are often tied to aging, linked to reduced insulin production and thicker, slower blood flow.</li></ul>

<h2>Can Premature Aging Be Prevented?</h2>

While no one can stop the clock, adopting healthy habits can slow it down. Regular physical activity, a diet rich in antioxidants from fruits and vegetables, quality sleep, and timely health screenings can all help delay the impact of aging and keep the body functioning better for longer.

In most cases, premature aging happens because of everyday habits or environmental factors that we can control. Doctors call this extrinsic aging. The first signs usually show up on the skin. While skin changes are a normal part of getting older, if they appear too early, lifestyle and surroundings are often to blame.

<h2>Light exposure is the biggest culprit</h2><ul><li>Sunlight (UV rays): Too much sun speeds up skin aging, a process known as photoaging. This alone causes about 90% of the visible changes we see in skin, such as wrinkles, age spots, and rough texture. UV rays also damage cells, which raises the risk of skin cancer.</li><li>Blue light and infrared light: The remaining 10% of skin damage comes from high-energy visible (blue) light and infrared light. Blue light comes from the sun and also from screens, while infrared is the heat we feel. These don’t raise cancer risk but they do weaken collagen and elasticity, making skin sag sooner.</li></ul>Other lifestyle factors that speed up aging include:

<ul><li>Smoking: Nicotine toxins break down collagen and elastin, causing sagging skin, wrinkles, and a hollow look.</li><li>Poor diet: Diets high in sugar and refined carbs may speed up aging, while diets rich in fruits and vegetables help protect the skin.</li><li>Alcohol: Heavy drinking dehydrates and damages skin over time.</li><li>Lack of sleep: Poor or insufficient sleep has been linked to faster cellular aging.</li><li>Chronic stress: High cortisol levels from stress reduce substances like collagen and hyaluronic acid that keep skin smooth and firm.</li></ul>

In rare cases, certain medical conditions can also cause early aging, such as progeria, Werner syndrome, Cockayne syndrome, Bloom syndrome, and a few other genetic disorders.

premature ageing

fatigue

collagen

diabetes

Aging is a natural process. It happens when the rate at which our cells die begins to outpace the rate at which they regenerate. Every cell in the body has its own lifespan, for example, red blood cells live for around 100 to 120 days, while liver cells (hepatocytes) last about 200 to 300 days. Over time, as regeneration slows, the signs of aging begin to appear.However, in some people, this process speeds up. Factors like long-term exposure to toxins, severe physical trauma, metabolic disorders such as cancer, or the failure of vital organs can push the body into premature aging. We got in touch with Dr Saurish Hegde, MD community medicine, Public health specialist who told us more about the same.Warning Signs You May Be Aging FasterConstant fatigue and loss of energy: Everyday tasks feel harder, and the body tires more quickly than before.Skin and hair changes: Reduced collagen and keratin production leads to sagging, wrinkles, and thinning or loss of hair.Cognitive decline: Memory lapses, difficulty in planning, and problems with calculations may point to aging-related changes in the brain as grey matter begins to shrink.Chronic conditions: Lifestyle diseases like diabetes and hypertension are often tied to aging, linked to reduced insulin production and thicker, slower blood flow.Can Premature Aging Be Prevented?While no one can stop the clock, adopting healthy habits can slow it down. Regular physical activity, a diet rich in antioxidants from fruits and vegetables, quality sleep, and timely health screenings can all help delay the impact of aging and keep the body functioning better for longer.What Causes Premature Aging?In most cases, premature aging happens because of everyday habits or environmental factors that we can control. Doctors call this extrinsic aging. The first signs usually show up on the skin. While skin changes are a normal part of getting older, if they appear too early, lifestyle and surroundings are often to blame.Light exposure is the biggest culpritSunlight (UV rays): Too much sun speeds up skin aging, a process known as photoaging. This alone causes about 90% of the visible changes we see in skin, such as wrinkles, age spots, and rough texture. UV rays also damage cells, which raises the risk of skin cancer.Blue light and infrared light: The remaining 10% of skin damage comes from high-energy visible (blue) light and infrared light. Blue light comes from the sun and also from screens, while infrared is the heat we feel. These don’t raise cancer risk but they do weaken collagen and elasticity, making skin sag sooner.Other lifestyle factors that speed up aging include:Smoking: Nicotine toxins break down collagen and elastin, causing sagging skin, wrinkles, and a hollow look.Poor diet: Diets high in sugar and refined carbs may speed up aging, while diets rich in fruits and vegetables help protect the skin.Alcohol: Heavy drinking dehydrates and damages skin over time.Lack of sleep: Poor or insufficient sleep has been linked to faster cellular aging.Chronic stress: High cortisol levels from stress reduce substances like collagen and hyaluronic acid that keep skin smooth and firm.In rare cases, certain medical conditions can also cause early aging, such as progeria, Werner syndrome, Cockayne syndrome, Bloom syndrome, and a few other genetic disorders.

is your body aging too quickly? 5 warning signs you shouldn’t ignore

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Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients On Rise By 40% In Japan, Reveals Study

Quick Stories

China Now Has An Oyster-Inspired Bone Glue To Fix Broken Bones In Minutes

Can Cocoa Keep You Young? Study Links It to Slower Aging

Is Your Body Aging Too Quickly? 5 Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Health Conditions A-Z

China Now Has An Oyster-Inspired Bone Glue To Fix Broken Bones In Minutes

Ozempic Soon To Be Launched In India, Here's All That You Should Know About This Weight Loss Drug

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients On Rise By 40% In Japan, Reveals Study