Sunita Ahuja's Lock Upp 2 Exit Puts Menopause, Diabetes And Anxiety In The Spotlight

Medha Manjrekar's Cancer Journey Highlights Why Nutrition Matters During Treatment

ABP Live Lifestyle — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 22:01:23 +0530

Actor and director Medha Manjrekar has shared a personal account of her experience with cancer, reminding people that recovery is influenced not just by radiation, chemotherapy and surgery but also by the small acts of kindness that support patients on a daily basis. As one of the stages of her treatment was concluding, Manjrekar wrote an emotional Instagram post in which she talked about the people who supported her and the unexpected role that food played during one of the most difficult periods of her life.

She added, "There are adventures in life that change you permanently," refusing to focus on her diagnosis or course of treatment. Rather, she thought of the kindness all around her. "I recall grace. She added that she never really confronted illness alone. "I recall the invisible hands that carried me every single day," she said.

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When Appetite Becomes Another Challenge

Her post's description of how cancer treatment affected something as commonplace as eating was one of its most poignant moments. Manjrekar noted how everyone in her immediate vicinity naturally sought methods to support her when her therapy caused her to lose her appetite. She stated, "When treatment took away my hunger, someone always knew what I could eat," recalling basic dishes like dhoklas, soft idlis, gulpapdi and even pani puri on the days when she had a sudden craving.

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A post shared by Medha M Manjrekar (@manjrekarmedha)

Changes in appetite are one of the most frequent side effects of cancer treatment, according to Cancer Research UK. Chemotherapy, radiation, and other medications can change a patient's taste and smell, cause nausea or oral sores and make them too exhausted to eat, all of which make maintaining a healthy diet challenging.

She also talked about how a close friend made her feel special by encouraging her to sip cranberry juice from a champagne glass. She thought, "A tiny difference in presentation... a big change in viewpoint," demonstrating how emotional support can be just as nourishing as actual food.

Nutrition Is Part Of Treatment

Nutrition is becoming recognised by medical professionals as a crucial component of cancer treatment. The American Cancer Society states that consuming adequate calories and protein aids patients in maintaining their strength, protecting their muscle mass, boosting their immune system and recuperating in between treatment cycles.

Small meals, soft foods and favorite comfort foods can help patients continue to satisfy their nutritional needs even when their appetite is weak.Personalised nutrition support is also advised by the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) for patients who are suffering weight fluctuations or appetite loss as a result of their treatment.

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Healing Beyond Medicine

Beyond food, Manjrekar's message honored the emotional support she got from her husband, daughters, friends, medical professionals, nurses and spiritual gurus. She stated, "I never walked through it alone," explaining how having someone stand by her side made every challenging day easier.

Her message serves as a reminder that recovering from cancer involves more than just medical care. Compassion, family support and a healthy diet help patients restore hope and strength while medications treat the illness. Manjrekar's story demonstrates how even the tiniest acts, like cooking a meal at home, enjoying a favorite snack or just spending time with loved ones, may play a significant role in the healing process.

Could Illegal Mosquito Agarbattis Be Putting Your Health At Risk? Here's What You Need To Know

ABP Live Lifestyle — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 21:54:43 +0530

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 guarantee of safety.

The Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIBRC) states that before any household pesticide product can be sold legally, it must pass scientific testing. Concerns about what customers are breathing into their homes are raised by the possibility that products offered without registration have not had their ingredients, safety or efficacy evaluated.

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Understanding Illegal Mosquito Agarbattis

Products that are supplied without the mandatory clearance required by India's insecticide legislation are known as illegal mosquito agarbattis. It is challenging for consumers to ascertain whether they adhere to accepted safety standards because they frequently lack the necessary registration details, ingredient information or manufacturer disclosures.

Products marketed under the names Comfort, Sleepwell, Relax, Sun Relax, Hunting Tiger, High Voltage, Happy Night, Dinosaur, Bodyguard, Thunder, Soorya, Spoorthi Power, Dengue Killer, Nice Sleep and Care are allegedly being sold without the necessary regulatory approval, according to public advisories. Instead of depending on brand names or eye-catching packaging, health experts advise customers to confirm registration facts.

Why Health Experts Are Concerned

The smoke created during burning is more dangerous than the incense stick itself. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that extended exposure to indoor air pollution can raise the risk of respiratory irritation and other health issues. Physicians caution that uncontrolled mosquito agarbattis smoke can aggravate asthma, allergies or chronic lung disease in addition to irritating the eyes, nose and throat.

Because they spend more time indoors and are more susceptible to airborne contaminants, children, elderly adults, pregnant women and those with pre-existing respiratory illnesses are thought to be most vulnerable.

Safe Protection Should Always Come First

Experts stress that while preventing mosquito bites is still crucial, safe products should also be utilised. When using smoke-based repellents indoors, consumers are advised to make sure there is sufficient ventilation, carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions, and only buy mosquito repellents with a current CIBRC registration number. It is best to stay away from products that are sold without clear labelling or regulatory permission.

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Making Informed Choices

Agarbattis should not be the only method used to control mosquitoes. Public health experts advise clearing standing water from the vicinity of residences, covering water storage containers, installing window screens, sleeping beneath mosquito nets, and donning clothing that covers exposed skin, especially during periods of high mosquito activity. These steps lessen the requirement for extended indoor smoke exposure and mosquito breeding.

Health risks can be greatly decreased by selecting approved products from reliable vendors, verifying regulatory information and staying away from unlabeled or dubiously inexpensive substitutes. Stronger enforcement against unlawful mosquito agarbattis and educated consumer choices, according to experts, can help shield homes from mosquito-borne illnesses and needless exposure to potentially dangerous indoor pollutants as awareness develops.

Only 38% Of Consumers Trust The Purity Of Ghee They Buy, Survey Finds

ABP Live Lifestyle — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 19:53:02 +0530

For ages, Indian diets have included ghee, which is valued for its flavour, adaptability and use in traditional cookery. Despite shifting eating habits, it is still a mainstay in family kitchens and is rich in fat-soluble vitamins. However, a recent survey indicates that there may be a decline in customer trust in one of India's most reliable food products. The results show that most urban customers are unsure about the purity of the ghee they buy, which raises new questions regarding food adulteration and the necessity of increased openness throughout the dairy supply chain.

Why Food Purity Matters

According to the survey, which collected responses from more than 91,000 consumers across 293 districts, only 38 per cent said they had complete confidence in the purity of the ghee they purchased. Nearly six in ten urban consumers expressed concerns about the authenticity of the ghee reaching their homes, with 41 per cent saying they were only somewhat confident and 19 per cent stating they were not confident at all.

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The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) states that before being sold to customers, authentic ghee must be made entirely of milk fat and adhere to stringent quality criteria. In order to lower production costs, adulteration may entail using less expensive vegetable oils, vanaspati or other fats, which could have an impact on both nutritional content and quality.

Food safety experts caution that consuming low-quality fats over extended periods of time may contribute to worse nutritional quality and increase exposure to undesirable substances that consumers never intended to eat, even if not all contaminated products cause immediate sickness.

Consumers Are Becoming More Selective

According to the poll, consumers are altering their ghee shopping habits. Many respondents stated that before making a purchase, they now pay more attention to FSSAI license, ingredient details, packaging and brand reputation. A growing preference for traceable food goods is reflected in the fact that branded products continue to inspire greater confidence than loose or unpackaged types. Experts believe this shift is encouraging because informed purchasing decisions are becoming an important part of food safety.

Looking Beyond Traditional Home Tests

Many homes still use antiquated techniques to assess the quality of ghee by looking at its texture, aroma or solidification process. Food specialists warn that adulteration cannot be accurately detected by home tests. The most reliable method for determining if a product satisfies regulatory requirements is still laboratory analysis.

As a result, customers are advised to buy from authorised merchants, thoroughly inspect packaging and steer clear of goods offered at prices that seem abnormally cheap in relation to the market average.

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Balancing Tradition With Food Safety

When consumed in moderation, ghee can contribute to a balanced diet, according to nutrition experts, including those from the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (NIN). It offers energy and includes fat-soluble vitamins, but like all fats, it should be consumed within suggested dietary bounds.

The latest survey focuses more on boosting trust in the food supply than it does on reducing ghee usage. Improving product traceability, upholding food safety regulations, and promoting educated consumer choices, according to experts, will be crucial to safeguarding public health and confidence in one of India's most beloved culinary items as awareness rises.

ABP LIVE Doc Talk | 5 Eye Diseases That Spike During the Rainy Season

Dr Mandeep Singh Basu — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 19:04:05 +0530

There are both pros and cons to the change in seasons from the heat of summer to the rain of the monsoon season. The temperature cools after the hot summer, but the humidity and full effect on the environment create significant challenges with infections, especially in the eyes. The combination of increased humidity, water, bad sanitation, and the mixing of airborne and waterborne pathogens creates a perfect storm for eye problems. During this season, eye specialists receive a higher-than-normal number of patients. Knowing these seasonal eye issues and their possible symptoms and opting for preventive measures can help shield your vision.

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

During the monsoon season, one of the most common eye issues in the population is conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye or eye flu. This is a contagious eye infection that can be the result of a virus, bacteria, or allergy that creates inflammation in the conjunctiva. Conjunctivitis is a problem of crowding and humidity, and is commonly spread via contaminated water or other personal articles or unclean hands. Symptoms are redness and irritation, or swollen eyelids. The most important prevention factor is hygiene. Frequent washing of hands, not touching the eyes, and not sharing personal articles or protective equipment in dusty or crowded environments are all needed to prevent its spread.

Eye Stye

A stye looks like a painful boil or pimple on the eyelid. It is an infection of the oil glands or hair follicles around the eyelashes. During rainy seasons, there are various reasons that create conditions that help the bacteria grow and increase the risk of infections like this. Another word for it is 'hordeolum', and it can affect one or multiple glands. They can feel tender, swollen, and crusted on the eyelid. They can cause tearing and are sensitive to light. In order to avoid an eye stye, make sure you do not rub your eyes, maintain good eyelid hygiene, replace your old eye makeup, and do not share cosmetics.

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Corneal Ulcers

Corneal ulcers are very serious. These are also some of the conditions that increase the risk during the monsoon season. These can occur from exposure to contaminated water, soil, or plant material. Corneal ulcers can be caused by many infections, but in humid conditions, they can be caused by a fungus. These can be very painful and are one of the most commonly occurring eye disorders. To prevent these, make sure you protect your eyes during outdoor work activities, avoid contact lenses during the rain, and get help for any injury to the eye. Also, avoid using steroid eye drops without a prescription.

Dry Eye Syndrome

It may seem strange, but dry eye syndrome can actually become more troubling during the rainy season. The combination of increased indoor activity, prolonged screen time, and use of air conditioning can make your tears dissipate faster and be less stable. Damp air can contain its own irritants and pollutants that can contribute to eye discomfort. This causes a host of symptoms including an aching, burning, or stinging eye, a gritty feeling with blurring and reddening vision, and even increased tearing. To combat this, some preventative measures can include implementing the 20-20-20 rule to alleviate eye strain, using a humidifier, and more conscious blinks and eye lubricants on the advised occasions.

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Trachoma

Trachoma is a bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis and is an ongoing problem in places with less sanitation. During the monsoon, the combination of contaminated water, stagnant water, and flies that carry the infection causes an increasing incidence of trachoma. The first signs can be an irritated eye with increased discharge and swollen, sensitive-to-light eyelids. If this condition is left untreated, it can result in irreversible vision loss. Some measures that can be taken to prevent this can be ensuring strict personal hygiene, using clean water, treating and controlling flies, and seeking medical attention early to receive a prescription of the appropriate antibiotics.

Note For Contact Lens Wearers

The rainy season can cause even more trouble for those who wear contact lenses. Increasing exposure to already contaminated water, along with the increased humidity, can lead to a diminishing supply of oxygen to the cornea and an increased risk of potentially serious infection. During the monsoon, it is best to avoid contact lenses as much as possible and wear spectacles instead.

You need to be more careful about your eyes during the rainy season. Regularly washing your hands, not touching your eyes, wearing protective eyewear, and staying away from contaminated water are good habits and will help you avoid eye diseases during the monsoon. If you are not sure about something, you should visit an eye expert instead of opting for home remedies.

Can Your Cholesterol Ratio Predict Heart Disease? Here's How To Calculate It

ABP Live Lifestyle — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 18:45:54 +0530

Most people who receive the results of a cholesterol test immediately look for one thing - whether their cholesterol is "high" or "normal". However, cardiologists claim that the cholesterol ratio can give a more accurate picture of heart health. This calculation helps physicians to comprehend a patient's cardiovascular risk by reflecting the balance between harmful and protective cholesterol rather than concentrating just on total cholesterol or LDL levels.

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) advises against evaluating cholesterol alone. Instead, to predict the risk of developing heart disease in the future, medical practitioners combine cholesterol values with variables including age, blood pressure, smoking status, diabetes and family history.

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Better Way To Understand Your Cholesterol

A typical cholesterol test quantifies the various forms of fat in the blood. HDL cholesterol aids in returning extra cholesterol to the liver for elimination, but LDL cholesterol can build up inside arterial walls and aid in the development of plaque.

Doctors frequently view the association between these two types of cholesterol as more informative than total cholesterol alone since they serve quite different purposes.

Understanding How The Ratio Is Calculated

Calculating a cholesterol ratio is not that difficult. Your total cholesterol is divided by your HDL cholesterol. For instance, a person with a total cholesterol value of 5.4 mmol/L and an HDL level of 1.5 mmol/L would have a ratio of 3.6. The NHS states that although the result should always be evaluated in conjunction with other cardiovascular risk factors, a lower cholesterol ratio often indicates a healthy balance between beneficial and dangerous cholesterol.

Protective Role Of HDL Cholesterol

The body's natural cleaning mechanism is frequently referred to as HDL. The American Heart Association states that HDL aids in the removal of excess cholesterol from the bloodstream prior to its accumulation inside blood vessels.

While it is advantageous to maintain good HDL levels, experts emphasise that enhancing heart health necessitates attention to overall cholesterol balance rather than just raising one kind of cholesterol.

Improving Your Cholesterol Ratio Naturally

A number of commonplace behaviours, such as diets heavy in saturated fats, smoking, obesity, inactivity and poorly managed diabetes, can lead to an unhealthy cholesterol ratio. Some people may have a higher chance of developing high cholesterol despite living a healthy lifestyle due to genetics.

To lower cholesterol, health professionals advise concentrating on long-term lifestyle modifications. Better heart health can be supported by eating more foods high in fibre, such as oats, beans, fruit and vegetables, substituting healthy unsaturated fats for saturated fats; exercising frequently, keeping a healthy weight, giving up smoking and consuming less alcohol. In addition to these lifestyle changes, doctors may prescribe cholesterol-lowering drugs to patients who are at higher risk for cardiovascular disease.

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When Should You Check Your Cholesterol?

While younger persons with diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, or a strong family history of heart disease may require earlier testing, the NHS advises adults 40 years of age and older to get frequent cardiovascular risk assessments. The cholesterol ratio provides important information about how well the body is controlling cholesterol, even though it is only one component of a comprehensive evaluation of heart health. Reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke later in life can be greatly aided by being aware of this number and taking early action through healthier lifestyle choices and regular medical care.

Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Are French Fries Really More Harmful Than Cigarettes? Oncologist Explains Hidden Health Risks

ABP Live Lifestyle — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:56:53 +0530

One of the most popular comfort meals in the world is french fries but a recent warning from Dr. Vartika Vishwani, a surgical oncologist in Gurugram, has rekindled discussion about the negative health effects of fast food that is made commercially. She made a startling declaration in an Instagram video: "As an oncology mom, this is one meal that I have not given to my child to date. The dangers of French fries will astound you.’’ Nutrition experts concur that the issue is more about how commercially prepared fries are cooked and consumed than it is about potatoes themselves, despite the connection with cigarettes igniting internet debate.

The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) and the World Health Organization (WHO) claim that diets heavy in unhealthy fats, ultra-processed foods and excess salt have been connected to obesity, heart disease and several types of cancer.

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Why The Frying Process Matters

The main issue, according to Dr. Vishwani, is the frequent heating of cooking oil in industrial kitchens. "Oil is the first issue," she says. The same oil is frequently used at high temperatures in fast food restaurants.
Research from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and Food Chemistry indicates that heating vegetable oils repeatedly can result in the production of hazardous substances such as aldehydes and oxidized lipids. When ingested often over time, these chemicals may exacerbate oxidative stress and inflammation, processes linked to long-term harm to blood vessels and cells.

More Than Just Fat And Calories

Additionally, french fries are often high in salt and low in fiber, vitamins and minerals. Regularly eating foods high in salt can elevate blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, according to the NHS.

Dr. Vishwani also emphasised how easy it is for kids to overindulge in fries because they are really tasty but not very satisfying. When consumed often, foods high in energy but low in nutrients may promote excessive calorie consumption, raising the risk of childhood obesity.

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A Balanced Perspective For Parents

Speaking as a mother and a physician, Dr. Vartika Vishwani stated, "As an oncologist mom, this is one meal that I have not provided to my child," highlighting that her main issue is with commercially cooked French fries, where frying oil is frequently reheated several times. Additionally, she advised parents to "Share this with any parent that orders French fries first for their child when they go out." Health professionals advise selecting healthier cooking techniques like baking, roasting, or air-frying with fresh oil rather than regularly ingesting commercially deep-fried potatoes, even though they do not advise completely avoiding potatoes.

As part of a balanced diet, eating French fries occasionally is unlikely to be harmful, according to nutrition experts. However, consuming deep-fried, highly processed foods on a frequent basis may lead to obesity and other long-term health issues. According to experts, the most important lesson is to make educated food choices and pay attention to how meals are cooked rather than completely avoiding certain foods.

Fresh Covid-19 Cases Reported In UP, Maharashtra And Andhra Pradesh; Will The Pandemic Return In 2026?

ABP Live Lifestyle — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 12:26:37 +0530

Fresh COVID-19 cases reported from Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh have sparked renewed discussions on social media, with many questioning whether India could witness another large-scale outbreak or even a lockdown. Viral posts have fuelled anxiety, but health experts and government officials say there is no reason to panic. According to doctors, COVID-19 has not disappeared completely. Like several other respiratory viruses, it continues to circulate at low levels and isolated cases are expected from time to time. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and there is currently no indication of a nationwide health emergency.

Fresh Covid-19 Cases Reported In Multiple States

Health departments have stepped up surveillance after new infections were detected in different parts of the country.

Uttar Pradesh (Varanasi): A 27-year-old man from Ashapuri in Varanasi tested positive for COVID-19 after seeking treatment for breathing difficulties at the Chest and TB Department of Sir Sunderlal Hospital, Banaras Hindu University (BHU). He is currently undergoing treatment, and doctors say the case is a reminder that the virus is still present, although its spread is much lower than during previous waves.

Andhra Pradesh: The state has reported eight active COVID-19 cases. According to reports, two COVID-related deaths have been recorded in recent weeks, including a 46-year-old man from Kadapa. Health authorities have sent patient samples for genome sequencing to identify the circulating variant and monitor any changes in the virus.

Maharashtra (Mumbai): A fresh COVID-19 case has also been reported in Mumbai. Singer Kumar Sanu's son, Jaan Kumar Sanu, recently confirmed that he had tested positive and is recovering under medical supervision.

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What Experts Say And How Authorities Are Prepared

Medical experts say COVID-19 has now entered the endemic phase, meaning the virus continues to exist in the community but is generally managed through routine healthcare rather than emergency measures. Vaccination and previous infections have helped build immunity in the population, significantly reducing the risk of severe illness for most people. As a precaution, state governments and health departments have activated surveillance systems, formed rapid response teams and asked hospitals to remain prepared. Government and major private hospitals have been instructed to keep isolation beds, testing kits, PPE kits, N95 masks and essential medicines readily available in case the number of infections rises.

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Is There Any Risk Of Another Lockdown?

Health officials have clarified that rumours about a nationwide lockdown in 2026 are baseless. At present, there are no restrictions on travel, schools, colleges or workplaces, and mask-wearing has not been made mandatory. However, doctors advise people with weakened immunity, senior citizens and those with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease or hypertension to remain cautious. Anyone experiencing persistent fever, cough, sore throat or difficulty breathing should consult a doctor and get tested if advised. Experts also recommend maintaining good hand hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes, and wearing a mask in crowded places or hospitals if you are unwell or at higher risk. Staying informed through official health advisories rather than social media rumours remains the best way to avoid unnecessary panic.

Extreme Heat May Be Fueling A Rise In Mental Health Hospitalisations, Study Finds

ABP Live Lifestyle — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 11:22:06 +0530

Heatwaves are known to raise the risk of cardiovascular disease, heatstroke, and dehydration. However, mounting data indicates that high temperatures may also have a major effect on mental health. Extreme heat is linked to a substantial increase in hospital admissions for mental health disorders, especially among children, adolescents and young adults, according to a recent Australian study. The results contribute to an increasing amount of research suggesting that climate change may have an impact on psychological wellbeing in addition to physical health.

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The Connection Between Rising Temperatures And Mental Health

Over 720,000 hospital admissions for mental and behavioral problems in New South Wales between 2001 and 2022 were examined in the study, which was headed by experts from the University of Sydney. Researchers discovered that at times of exceptionally high temperatures, young people were far more likely to need hospital care. Extreme heat occurrences during the warmer months almost doubled the chance of hospitalization due to mental health issues.

Experts believe that high temperatures can interfere with sleep, raise physical stress on the body, and change brain function, all of which may exacerbate mental health problems, but researchers are still looking into the precise molecular causes.

Which Conditions Could Become Worse?

Hospital admissions for a variety of mental illnesses, including depression, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse and self-harm, have grown, according to the report. Because some psychiatric drugs can interfere with the body's ability to regulate temperature, making it more difficult to cope during heatwaves, people who already have mental illness may be especially vulnerable.

Long-term exposure to heat has also been associated in the past with increased psychological discomfort, irritability, aggressive behavior, and a higher risk of mental problems.

Why Younger People May Be More Vulnerable

Researchers propose a number of explanations for why younger people seem to be more impacted. Many mental health issues initially manifest during adolescence and the early stages of adulthood. Emotional wellbeing may also be impacted by heat-related sleep disruption, academic pressure, decreased physical activity, and increased social stress during harsh weather.

The results also emphasise how crucial it is to include mental health in healthcare planning connected to climate change rather than concentrating only on heatstroke and dehydration.

Protecting Your Mental Wellbeing During Heatwaves

Mental health professionals advise drinking enough water, avoiding physically demanding outside activities during the warmest portions of the day, and keeping interior environments as cool as possible. The effects of severe temperatures can also be lessened by sticking to regular sleep schedules, consuming less alcohol, and keeping an eye on friends or relatives who could be at risk.

If they are worried about how heat may impact their treatment, people with pre-existing mental health disorders should talk to their healthcare provider and keep taking their prescribed medications.

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Climate Change And Mental Health

Experts in public health are beginning to see mental health as a crucial component of climate resilience. Healthcare systems may need to get ready for both physical ailments and an increase in the need for mental health services as heatwaves become more common and severe. Thousands of extra deaths have already been connected to recent heatwaves in Europe, highlighting the wider health dangers associated with rising temperatures.

12 Children Die Amid Viral Outbreak In Gujarat; Three Deaths Confirmed Due To Chandipura Virus

ABP Live News — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 08:06:00 +0530

At least 12 children have died in Gujarat over the past month during a viral outbreak, with three deaths confirmed to have been caused by the Chandipura virus, according to state health authorities.

Officials said the remaining nine deaths are also suspected to be linked to the virus, although laboratory reports are still awaited. Cases have been reported from Gandhinagar, Sabarkantha, Kheda, Aravalli and Panchmahal districts.

State Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said the confirmed fatalities include two children from Godhra and one from Himmatnagar in neighbouring Rajasthan. He added that extensive preventive measures have already been launched in the affected areas.

Several Samples Under Investigation as Cases Rise

Two of the latest deaths occurred on July 11 and involved a one-year-old and a two-year-old child.

So far, samples from 27 suspected patients have been sent to Gandhinagar for testing. Of the 19 samples examined, seven have tested positive for the Chandipura virus.

Among the seven confirmed cases, three children have died while four are currently undergoing treatment. Test results for the remaining eight samples are still pending. In view of the evolving situation, the health minister chaired a review meeting on Saturday with senior health department officials to assess the outbreak.

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Panchmahal and Himmatnagar Report Multiple Cases

Panchmahal Divisional Deputy Director Surendra Jain said the district has so far reported 13 suspected Chandipura virus cases.

One child from Mahisagar district is on ventilator support, while five children are receiving treatment at Godhra Civil Hospital after their samples were collected for testing. Four of them are in stable condition and awaiting their reports.

Three other patients from Panchmahal are undergoing treatment at SSG Hospital in Vadodara and are reported to be in stable condition. Their test results are also awaited. Another child has been discharged from hospital.

Paediatrician Ashish Jain of Himmatnagar Civil Hospital said nine new patients were admitted between June 26 and July 13. Of these, six children died, one recovered and was discharged, while one of the two remaining hospitalised patients tested negative.

Authorities Urge Public Not to Spread Rumours

The Gujarat Health Department has appealed to the public not to panic over rumours or misinformation related to the virus circulating on social media.

Officials have urged people to rely only on official advisories issued by the health department, warning that misinformation can fuel unnecessary fear and anxiety.

Health teams continue to carry out preventive measures in affected areas as surveillance efforts are expanded.

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State Orders Surveys and Insecticide Spraying

The state administration has directed detailed surveys and insecticide spraying across all 61 affected locations.

Several of these areas had also reported Chandipura virus cases in 2024. The virus is transmitted by sandflies, which are found in significant numbers in Godhra and other affected regions.

To curb further transmission, authorities have intensified vector-control measures, including increased insecticide spraying in identified hotspots.

Sunita Ahuja's Lock Upp 2 Exit Puts Menopause, Diabetes And Anxiety In The Spotlight

ABP Live Lifestyle — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 21:50:53 +0530

Sunita Ahuja, a television star, recently left Lock Upp 2 due to health issues that many women could relate to.

"My health is not excellent, and my diabetes is not under control," she explained her choice of leaving the show that I am going through menopause and I am also experiencing anxiety. She also disclosed that she had been having breathing difficulties and chest pain, which drove her to put her health before the reality show.

Although Ahuja's story is personal, medical professionals believe it raises a crucial point: menopause, diabetes and anxiety frequently interact, making symptoms more challenging to control. Hormonal changes during menopause can impact blood sugar levels, emotional well-being and cardiovascular health, especially in women who already have diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and The Menopause Society.

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Why Menopause Can Make Diabetes Harder To Control

Progesterone and estrogen levels vary greatly during menopause. These hormonal changes can decrease insulin sensitivity, making blood glucose levels more erratic, according to The Menopause Society. Even with the same diet, medication and exercise regimen, some women may experience elevated blood sugar levels.

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According to the American Diabetes Association, menopausal symptoms including hot flashes, night sweats, and sleep disruptions can further impede blood sugar regulation by putting the body under more physical strain.

The Overlap Between Anxiety And Blood Sugar

Diabetes and anxiety frequently have a reciprocal relationship. The Mayo Clinic states that symptoms like perspiration, lightheadedness, a racing heartbeat, trembling, and trouble focusing can be brought on by both high and low blood sugar levels and can resemble anxiety episodes.

However, maintaining a chronic illness like diabetes can exacerbate emotional anguish and chronic stress. Menopausal hormonal changes may make mood swings, anger and anxiety more likely.

Chest Pain And Breathlessness Should Never Be Ignored

Health professionals emphasise that while menopause and worry can occasionally result in chest pain or dyspnea, these symptoms should always be assessed by a medical professional. Women with diabetes are much more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than women without the condition, according to the British Heart Foundation.If chest discomfort is severe, chronic or accompanied by dizziness, dyspnea, or pain radiating to the jaw, neck, or arm, doctors advise getting medical help right once.

Managing These Conditions Together

Each woman's experience is unique, experts believe there isn't a single treatment. Rather, maintenance frequently entails a mix of regular blood sugar checks, a healthy diet, exercise, enough sleep and continuous medical evaluation. Depending on their symptoms and medical history, some women may also benefit from menopause-specific therapy.

Mental health is just as vital. If anxiety persists or starts to interfere with day to day activities, the NHS advises seeing a healthcare provider because early intervention can enhance mental well-being and diabetes control.

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Listening To Your Body Matters

A reminder that health issues should never be disregarded or written off as "simply stress" is provided by Sunita Ahuja's choice to quit her job. Diabetes, anxiety, and menopause can all interact in complicated ways, making symptoms more difficult to identify. Women can better manage these interrelated diseases and safeguard their long-term health by being aware of warning symptoms, receiving prompt medical assistance, and adhering to a customised treatment plan.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]