HEALTH

26,000 daily deaths: Oncologist explains top 5 reasons behind fast spread of cancer

The World Health Organisation (WHO) recently said that nearly everyone on the planet will feel the impact of cancer at some point in their lives, either through a personal diagnosis, or through a loved one's illness. As per Global Status Report on Cancer 2026, released by WHO, it said that one in five persons will develop cancer themselves. It further added that once the ripple effects on families are counted in, roughly 92% of people will be...

Could illegal mosquito agarbattis be putting your health at risk? Here's what you need to know

Dengue, malaria and chikungunya are among the mosquito borne illnesses that rise with the onset of the monsoon. Millions of homes believe that burning mosquito agarbattis is a safe and efficient technique to keep insects away. Public health experts, however, are cautioning that unlicensed mosquito agarbattis, which are supplied without the requisite regulatory approval may put families at unnecessary risk for health problems and provide little...

Health insurance checklist: Key policy terms to watch out for before hospital admission

Many policyholders get nasty surprises during hospitalisation. This is mainly due to several limitations buried in the policy terms and conditions, resulting in high out-of-pocket expenses.

Using sunscreen but still tanning? Make these 5 lifestyle changes

Tanning is one of the most common skin concerns during summer and even in humid weather. Prolonged exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays can make the skin appear darker, dull, and uneven. While many people rely on sunscreen to protect their skin, experts believe that sunscreen alone cannot completely prevent tanning. Healthy skin requires a combination of proper sun protection, good skincare habits, and a balanced lifestyle. By making a few...

7 science-backed ashwagandha benefits that go well beyond stress and anxiety relief

It Cuts Cortisol, and the Research Is Specific A 2012 double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine gave 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract twice daily to 64 adults with chronic stress. After 60 days, the group taking the extract showed a 27.9% reduction in serum cortisol compared to placebo. That is not a marginal finding. Cortisol at chronically elevated levels disrupts sleep, raises blood...

Can anti-inflammatory diets cure arthritis? Orthopaedic surgeon Dr Akhilesh Rathi separates fact from online myths

Can cutting out certain foods cure arthritis? Dr Rathi explains the facts behind anti-inflammatory diets and what really helps joint health.

Harvard doctor: Basil seeds might be the superfood for managing blood sugar, cholesterol, and gut health

Basil seeds, rich in fiber, minerals, and antioxidants, offer numerous health benefits. Dr. Saurabh Sethi highlights their ability to aid digestion, promote fullness, and maintain hydration when soaked. Incorporating these seeds into your diet can enhance gut health, assist in weight management, regulate cholesterol, and strengthen bones, contributing to overall wellness.

Lovneet Batra lists 8 Indian foods for natural gut health

Expert's dietary advice: Lovneet Batra urges people to focus on probiotic-rich Indian foods rather than depending only on supplements for gut health. Eight gut-friendly foods: Garlic, onion, raw banana, moong dal, ragi, jowar, amla, and chana were named for their ability to feed beneficial gut bacteria. Practical consumption tips: Batra suggests simple ways to add these foods to meals, from raw garlic in chutneys to jowar rotis and amla in warm water.

Healthy bowls to stay strong this rainy season

Stay healthy this rainy season with these 10 immunity boosting soups packed with nutrients, herbs, vegetables, and spices that help strengthen immunity, support digestion, and keep seasonal infections at bay.

Mouth taping: Sleep fix or health risk?

A small strip of tape placed over the lips before bed has become the latest sleep trend on social media, with many claiming it reduces snoring, improves sleep quality and even benefits oral health. Known as mouth taping, the practise is meant to encourage breathing through the nose instead of the mouth while sleeping. However, doctors say the trend...

Can restricted eating increase the risk of cardiovascular deaths? Cardiologist Dr Anshul Kumar Jain explains

Restrictive eating habits like intermittent fasting has certain health benefits for some people, but it is not suitable for everyone, shares Dr Jain.

Why sugar might be ageing your skin faster

Hidden skin saboteur: Excess sugar binds to collagen, forming AGEs that stiffen fibres and make them prone to breakdown, leading to visible ageing. Science-backed warning: Research shows high-sugar diets reduce collagen levels, thin the skin, and disrupt its structure, accelerating ageing signs. Prevention made simple: Balanced diets, antioxidants, sun protection, hydration, and sleep can preserve collagen and maintain skin resilience.

Why more women are experiencing hormonal imbalances before their 30s

The issues associated with hormonal imbalance do not affect only middle-aged women. The youth generation, especially those in their twenties, are struggling with irregular periods, breakouts, unexplained weight gain, tiredness, and mood swings. Even though hormones change at different stages of life, there is no need to ignore the issue. The Shift In Women's Health "The last ten years ago, hormonal issues were only found in women between 30 and...

Women's health: Meenakshi Energy's free health camp in Nellore benefits over 100 women

As part of its social responsibility work, Vedanta Power's Meenakshi Energy Limited has kicked off another great initiative. Under its 'Project Arogya', the company organised a free health camp for women in Thamminapatnam panchayat in Nellore district.

Swine flu or seasonal flu? Experts explain the symptoms and warning signs

Swine flu (H1N1) and seasonal flu is frequently indicated by a rapid fever, a persistent cough and extreme exhaustion, more or less they have almost the same symptoms but hard to differentatiate. Both of them are caused by influenza viruses and spread through respiratory droplets, health experts say understanding their differences can help people seek treatment earlier and reduce the risk of complications. According to the World Health...

5 strategies to tame your breast cancer fear and keep living your best life

An early breast cancer diagnosis can bring a wave of uncertainty. Beyond concerns about treatment, many women worry about what comes next: Will cancer return? Will life ever feel normal again? How will treatment affect work, family responsibilities, and plans? While recurrence remains a valid concern, sometimes even as high as 50%, advances in breast … Continue reading "5 strategies to tame your breast cancer fear and keep living your best life"

Risk of stroke at 35? Neurologist Dr Amit Kulkarni shares 6 warning signs young adults need to know

Stroke is no longer a health risk only for the elderly, but also for young adults. Dr Amit Kulkarni shares early signs to detect and take necessary steps.

Psychology says people who eat very fast tend to have these personality traits

However, psychologists have found that eating speed can sometimes reflect broader behavioural tendencies. While no single habit can define a person's personality, research has identified interesting links between the pace at which people eat and certain psychological traits. Here's what the studies suggest. Scroll down to read more...

Irregular eating habits: How can they increase your risk of stomach ulcers?

Skipping meals, eating at odd hours, and relying solely on fast food have become common parts of modern life. While these habits may seem harmless, they affect your digestive health over time. One condition linked to poor eating patterns is a stomach ulcer. These painful sores develop in the lining of the stomach and worsen … Continue reading "Irregular eating habits: How can they increase your risk of stomach ulcers?"

COVID or another respiratory virus? Doctors explain why similar symptoms are becoming more common this season, and who should be most careful

A gradual increase in COVID-19 cases in some parts of India has sparked fresh concern, but doctors say the current situation is very different from the devastating waves seen in previous years. Seasonal changes, including the monsoon, are also contributing to the circulation of multiple respiratory viruses with similar symptoms. Here's what experts say about why infections are rising, who is at greater risk, and when medical attention is necessary.

How conflict in Congo, Sudan and Yemen is fueling the spread of disease

Whether fast-spreading cholera in Sudan and Yemen or the Ebola virus in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), outbreaks of disease tend to be especially deadly when they take hold amid armed conflict.

Oman woman gets new lease of life after Mumbai docs treat rare hormonal disorder

A 27-year-old woman, Shahad Siraini from Oman, whose health rapidly deteriorated due to a rare hormonal disorder, found a new lease on life after Mumbai doctors came to her rescue to conduct an advanced minimally invasive surgery. It also started when unexplained weight gain initially soon escalated into a complex medical condition. Within three months, she gained nearly 16 kilograms and developed diabetes, hypertension, swelling across her...

Bizarre things that people somehow once believed were good for their health

Discover bizarre historical health treatments people genuinely trusted, from bloodletting and radioactive tonics to mercury, heroin, and leeches, revealing how medicine evolved through dangerous misconceptions and surprising scientific breakthroughs.

Arunachal cabinet OKs schemes to boost healthcare, tackle drug abuse

Itanagar: The Arunachal Pradesh cabinet, chaired by CM Pema Khandu, on Friday approved a slew of healthcare and social welfare measures, aimed at widening access to affordable medical treatment, strengthening preventive care and tackling drug abuse.Get breaking news anytime, anywhere. Download the TOI app now!The cabinet approved CM CARES — Chief M...

Why bone health is not just about calcium: Orthopaedic consultant Dr Rohit Jain shares what every adult needs to know

Building strong bones is more about than just calcium intake. Here’s what you need to know for good bone health.

Can your resting heart rate predict future heart disease risk? Doctor answers

Resting heart rate is simply how many times the heart beats per minute when the body is completely still, ideally measured after sitting or lying quietly for a few minutes. The textbook range for adults is 60 to 100 beats per minute (bpm).

Want your parents to stay healthy? Nutritionist shares 4 foods older adults should add to their diet

Nutritionist Deepsikha Jain shares four simple foods that may support gut health, heart health and healthy ageing after 50.

NDTV Lifeline | Why dengue is no longer just a monsoon disease

Can weight-loss drugs slow ageing? Study finds semaglutide may reduce biological ageing markers

As GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy gain popularity for weight loss, new research suggests they may offer another potential benefit: slowing some of the biological processes associated with ageing.A study published in Nature Communications found that semaglutide, the active ingredient in these drugs, may help reduce the buildup of DNA markers linked to biological ageing in adults living with HIV.Researchers described the findings as...

LIVE CHAT: Is Shilajit really worth the hype? Top doctors answer your biggest questions

Top doctors answer common questions about Shilajit, explaining its benefits, risks, scientific evidence, safety, side effects, and who should avoid it.

What really happens when you start eating papaya daily

Discover how daily papaya consumption can transform your health. This humble fruit, rich in papain, aids digestion, boosts metabolism, and enhances nutrient absorption. Its potent antioxidants and vitamins support a strong immune system, stable blood sugar, and radiant skin. Incorporating half a papaya daily, ideally in the morning, offers a natural path to improved well-being.

COVID-19 symptoms, viral fever or seasonal infections? Here's what your health insurance policy covers

A sudden fever, persistent cough, body aches, or fatigue can raise an immediate question - Is it COVID-19 or just a seasonal viral infection? The challenge is that many respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, influenza, H1N1, and other viral fevers, share similar symptoms, making it nearly impossible to tell them apart without a diagnostic test. While getting tested is the safest way to determine the cause, treatment costs can also become a...

India's kidney stone crisis: What's driving the sharp rise in cases?

Dr Pankaj Panwar explains why cases of kidney stones are rising in India. Here are the factors behind it and how to minimise your risk of health complications.

Healthy snacking gets a stylish makeover as home health bars become the latest wellness trend

A dedicated space for healthy snacks, supplements and superfoods is becoming the newest wellness must-have at home. Experts share how to set one up

Can drinking chamomile tea before bed truly improve your heart health and metabolism?

Chamomile tea offers calming properties and may support better sleep. This herbal infusion contains antioxidants which combat bodily stress effectively. Studies suggest chamomile tea can help reduce bad cholesterol levels. It also aids in managing triglycerides and maintaining blood sugar. Drinking chamomile tea may contribute to improved heart health overall.

From kiwi to papaya: Gastroenterologist recommends fruits for natural constipation relief

Dr Saurabh Sethi recommends five fruits that may help relieve constipation naturally and keep your gut happy.

Nearly 1 in 3 Indians at risk of diabetes? Endocrinologist Dr Dheeraj Kapoor shares warning signs and prevention tips

Diabetes often develops silently, but early detection can prevent complications. An endocrinologist explains warning signs, risk factors and prevention tips.

A 26-year-old with type 1 diabetes stopped insulin for pills - here's why it turned fatal

Stopping insulin in Type 1 diabetes can rapidly trigger fatal diabetic ketoacidosis, making insulin essential for survival.

Shah Rukh Khan's Kuch Kuch Hota Hai co-star reveals battle with bulimia from young age: 'Carried it silently'

Sana Saeed reveals her battle with bulimia nervosa, sharing her struggles with food-related anxiety.

Top 10 Himalayan herbs from Uttarakhand and their health benefits

The Himalayas of Uttarakhand are home to some of India’s most treasured medicinal herbs. Used in Ayurveda and traditional healing for centuries, these herbs are valued for their potential health benefits—from supporting immunity and digestion to boosting overall well-being. Here are 10 remarkable Himalayan herbs you should know about.Jakhiya: Jakhiya is one of Uttarakhand’s most famous herbs and a staple in traditional mountain cuisine. Used as...

What happens when you eat 1 banana daily for 45 days

Are Gen Z fitter and healthier than millennials? A new report reveals a surprising finding.

Gen Z vs Millennials: Gen Z appears to be very conscious about their fitness and wellness. Millennials, on the other hand, are often seen as a generation that struggles with long working hours, stress, and fatigue. Millennials vs. Gen Z: New Health Report Gen Z vs Millennials: Today's new generation appears more health-conscious than ever before. Social media is constantly discussing topics like fitness, a healthy diet, good sleep, mental...

Fourth COVID death reported in Andhra Pradesh: Experts recommend boosters for high-risk groups

The experts said COVID vaccines are now again recommended, especially for the elderly population, particularly those of advanced age or who are immunocompromised. It is a voluntary vaccine that is indicated because immunity from earlier vaccinations has declined.

PMOS: What are the symptoms to consult a gynaecologist? Doctor explains

Lifestyle changes, including diet and stress reduction, are key treatments.

Doc Talk | Waking up with swollen hands or feet? Orthopaedic specialist explains what it could mean

Most of us have woken up at least once with slightly puffy fingers or swollen feet. Often, the swelling subsides within an hour as we begin moving around. However, if it happens regularly or is associated with pain, stiffness or difficulty in movement, it could be your body's way of warning you of an underlying health problem. ALSO READ: Doc Talk | Teenage Bone Pain Or Growing Pains? Oncologist Explains Why Osteosarcoma Goes Unnoticed When Is...

Eat The Rainbow: Doctor Explains On Why There Is No Single 'Superfood' For Gut Health

Doctor explains some of the biggest myths about the gut microbiome, the gut-brain connection and inflammation.

Sonali Bendre on fasting for 18-20 hours: "Autophagy helped me heal after cancer diagnosis"

Actor Sonali Bendre's journey from cancer diagnosis, to beating cancer and now directing all her energies towards following a healthy lifestyle is truly inspiring. In 2018, she was diagnosed with stage IV metastatic cancer. Throughout her healing journey, she kept her fans up to speed with how she was doing. In a recent chat with Mashable India, Bendre shared about the diet plan she follows, intermittent fasting and how autophagy helped her...

Silent heart attack: Symptoms, causes, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment

A heart attack is usually associated with severe chest pain, sweating, and difficulty breathing. However, not every heart attack causes obvious symptoms. Some people experience what is known as a silent heart attack, where the warning signs are so mild or unusual that they are ignored or mistaken for another health problem. Although the symptoms may be less noticeable, a silent heart attack can cause the same damage to the heart as a typical...

I’ve been diagnosing breast cancer for 35 years – this is what causes real risk

Ageing, family history and how much you're drinking are all significant factors

Breast health in India: Moving the conversation beyond cancer

India has an abundance of talented surgeons, oncologists and radiologists, but relatively few dedicated breast specialists compared with the burden of disease. Breast care today requires far more than simply removing a lump or treating cancer.