Monsoon brings a welcome break from the scorching heat, but along with the refreshing showers comes a hidden threat—skin infections. As the rains create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, our skin becomes more vulnerable to a host of infections. From itchy rashes to more serious conditions like fungal infections and impetigo, the damp and humid weather can wreak havoc on your skin. Here are all the infections you should look out for:

Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection that affects the superficial layers of the epidermis (outermost layer of skin). It is most commonly caused by gram-positive bacteria. The infection spreads through direct contact with contaminated surfaces, including rainwater puddles, making it easy to contract during the monsoon.

Ringworm is a highly contagious viral infection, particularly among those with sweaty skin types. It manifests as red, circular spots on areas like the neck, armpits, or foot soles. It spreads through contact with infected surfaces or by scratching affected areas, which can further lead to nail infections.

Athlete’s foot is another common fungal infection, caused by the Candida fungus. It leads to cracked or discoloured patches on the feet and is highly contagious. Walking through rainwater puddles increases the risk of contracting this infection.

Folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles that results in red bumps on the skin. This condition is caused by both fungal and bacterial infections, often due to excessive sweating and humidity. The combination of rainwater and these factors makes contracting folliculitis more likely during the monsoon.

Eczema is characterized by red, inflamed, and itchy skin with dark, scaly patches. Although non-contagious, this condition can be triggered by external factors such as humidity and genetics. Rainwater can aggravate these symptoms, making it essential to manage exposure during the rainy season.

Mould thrives in damp environments, like wet walls and unused corners of homes during the rainy season. These moulds can trigger allergies such as allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma, as well as increase skin allergies. The presence of mould can exacerbate skin issues, leading to further discomfort.

To protect yourself during the rainy season, avoid walking through puddles, keep your skin dry, and be vigilant about the cleanliness of your surroundings. If you notice any unusual spots or symptoms on your skin, seek medical advice promptly to prevent these infections from worsening.

A nationwide ban on ranitidine, one of India’s most widely used antacids, may soon be on the cards. A confidential report by an expert panel has flagged serious health risks associated with the drug, particularly its potential to cause cancer. Submitted to India’s Drug Technical Advisory Board (DTAB), the findings have triggered deliberations on whether to suspend the manufacture, sale, and distribution of the drug across the country.

The Cancer Risk Behind Ranitidine

The expert committee’s report, accessed by News18, highlights the presence of N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) in several samples of ranitidine tested at the Central Drug Laboratory in Kolkata. NDMA is a chemical impurity classified as a probable human carcinogen. It is considered unsafe when consumed over a prolonged period in concentrations above global safety standards.

Out of the 42 samples tested, 21 were found to contain NDMA levels above 0.32 parts per million (ppm)—the internationally accepted limit. This finding has raised red flags, as it confirms that nearly half the samples exceeded the safety threshold.

What Is Ranitidine and Why Was It So Popular?

Ranitidine, developed in 1981 by Glaxo Holdings Ltd (now GlaxoSmithKline), quickly became a go-to medication for millions around the world. In India, it is widely available over-the-counter under brand names like Rantac, Zinetac, and Aciloc. It is primarily used to reduce stomach acid and treat issues such as indigestion, heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and ulcers.

Due to its affordability and easy accessibility, ranitidine became a staple in Indian households. Despite its ban in countries like the United States, Australia, and across Europe due to the NDMA contamination concerns, it has continued to be sold in India.

Global Regulatory Response

Ranitidine first came under global scrutiny in 2019, when international regulators began detecting unsafe levels of NDMA in the drug. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) all pulled the medication from their respective markets.

These agencies took the precautionary step of banning or recalling ranitidine to prevent long-term health risks in the population. They also recommended alternative treatments for acid reflux and ulcers, including other classes of antacids.

India’s Position So Far

While India did not impose an outright ban, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO)—the country’s apex drug regulator—acknowledged safety concerns as early as 2019. However, regulatory action remained limited. In December 2024, the government informed the Rajya Sabha that safety concerns were being addressed, though no concrete steps were taken until recently.

A key development came in 2022, when ranitidine was removed from the National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM). This was seen as a soft warning to healthcare providers and the public. The CDSCO also issued multiple advisories but stopped short of a suspension or recall.

What Happens Next?

Now that the expert committee has submitted its findings to the DTAB, the board is expected to review the recommendation for suspending ranitidine. If the board agrees, India may finally join the list of countries that have banned the drug.

In the meantime, doctors and pharmacists may begin advising patients to explore alternative treatments for acid-related disorders. Consumers, especially those with long-term use of ranitidine, are encouraged to consult their physicians and avoid self-medication.

As regulatory bodies weigh their next move, public awareness and medical guidance will be key to ensuring a safe transition away from ranitidine.

Despite having access to better information and healthcare than ever before, many men still avoid seeing doctors, unless it is absolutely critical. The reasons being outdated cultural norms, and idea of masculinity that often push men to vulnerability and pain. It also includes being ignorant about their physical health issues.

On an average, men die five years earlier than women. They are also more likely to suffer from preventable conditions that could be caught through regular routine checkups. The narrative that men should "tough it out", not only endangers individual lives, but also contributes to a broader public health problem.

What Do The Numbers Say?

A Cleveland Clinic survey revealed that close to 60% of men do not regularly see a doctor. Nearly half stated that they do not talk about their health. Instead they are far more likely to talk about sports, current events, or work. Only 7% of men reported regularly discussing their health.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), women are 33 percent more likely than men to visit the doctor, and women are 100 percent better at keeping up with preventive care such as routine screenings. This disparity holds even when adjusting for pregnancy-related visits.

Similarly, a UK study published in BMJ Open found that men’s consultation rates were 32 percent lower than women’s, especially in the 16 to 60 age group. Even when men had similar medical conditions, they were slightly less likely to consult a doctor than women — but the gap narrowed significantly when reproductive health visits were excluded.

Why Men Stay Away From Doctors?

The reasons are more psychological and emotional than practical. According to an online survey commissioned by Orlando Health, the most common excuses men give for avoiding annual doctor visits are:

• They’re too busy
• They fear being diagnosed with something serious
• They’re uncomfortable with intimate or invasive exams

Prostate checks, testicular exams, and colon screenings are often cited as particularly awkward experiences. These fears, combined with social conditioning to appear invincible, lead many men to delay care — sometimes until it’s too late.

In fact, nearly 1 in 5 men in the Cleveland Clinic survey admitted they only visit the doctor because a loved one nags them to go.

What Can Be Done?

Recognizing this gap, health organizations are developing creative strategies to connect with men. INTEGRIS, a health system in Oklahoma, launched Men’s Health University 15 years ago to directly address male health awareness. The initiative offers screenings at sporting events, cooking demonstrations, and wellness fairs — making the experience more social, accessible, and stigma-free.

Steve Petty, director of community health at INTEGRIS, emphasized the importance of such outreach. In 2018, their screenings found that 67 percent of participating men had abnormal blood pressure, and 40 percent had concerning blood sugar levels — both red flags for serious conditions like hypertension and diabetes.

Cleaning is an important task but we put it off ore times than we realise. Many people have an affinity for cleaner spaces and find it comforting as well. They explain how cleaning their rooms or home make their mind feel clearer, and calmer. While cleaning does ensure that your home remains germ-free and spotless, it could also help you stay healthy in many other ways.

While it may be a tedious activity, it has the potential to enhance our mental clarity as well as our physical health. As it is a necessary chore, putting it off can also cause stress, so many people choose to get it out of the way as quickly as possible.

Link Between A Tidy Home And Human Mind

Research indicates a strong connection between a tidy home and a positive mindset. Individuals residing in less cluttered environments often report higher levels of psychological well-being and a greater sense of peace and belonging within their personal space. In the study published by the Journal of Enviromental Psychology 2021 researchers wanted to see if how we feel about our home is linked to how happy and well we are.

The study asked over 1000 adults (mostly women) about their homes and their well-being. They found that how cluttered people felt their home was and how much they felt their home was "theirs" were strongly connected to their happiness.

The study talks about how clutter isn't just about how much stuff you have, but also how you feel about it. It suggests that feeling less cluttered and more at home is important for our well-being. So, the study concludes that how we relate to our home, especially how cluttered it feels, really does affect how happy we are.

How Does A Clean Home Keep You Healthy?

Boost Your Mood by Tidying Up

The feeling of a clean and organized space lifting your spirits. Studies like the ones mentioned above demonstrate that a clutter-free home correlates with improved mental wellness and lower stress levels. Eliminating unnecessary items can foster a greater sense of control, peace, and order in your life and environment.

Reduce Asthma Symptoms with a Clean Home

Cleaning can help remove indoor allergens like pet dander and dust mites, which can worsen asthma symptoms. Removing indoor allergens like pet dander and dust mites can significantly improve respiratory symptoms for sensitive individuals. Wearing a mask during cleaning can further protect against inhaling these irritants.

A Cleaner Space Can Boost Productivity

A less cluttered home, particularly a home office, can lead to increased productivity. Research published in the International Journal of Psychological Research and Reviews suggests that individuals working in tidy spaces experience better decision-making, less emotional exhaustion, and reduced job-related stress, ultimately contributing to improved work performance.

Tidy Space, Healthier Food Choices

Interestingly, the state of your environment might even influence your dietary choices. A study published in the Psychology Science indicates that individuals in orderly spaces are more inclined to choose healthier snacks, suggesting a link between a clean environment and a greater propensity for making positive health decisions.

Minimize Indoor Allergies Through Cleaning

While cleaning won't eliminate outdoor pollen, it's crucial for managing indoor allergies. Removing allergens like dust mites and pet dander can significantly alleviate symptoms such as congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes for allergy sufferers within the home.

Cleaning Can Burn Calories

Cleaning can contribute to your daily physical activity. Tasks like scrubbing floors and washing windows can burn a noticeable amount of calories. More vigorous cleaning activities, such as yard work, can provide an even more significant calorie expenditure.

The light exercise involved in cleaning can be good for your heart health. The American Heart Association recommends it as a way to get active. Furthermore, research suggests that regular housework is linked to a reduced risk of death from cardiovascular disease, potentially contributing to longevity.