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Public Health Chronicle
Latest public health news and updates of the world
Public Health News Snippets 20-26th January 2025
WHO Reports New Marburg Virus Outbreak in Tanzania’s Kagera Region
The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced a suspected Marburg virus outbreak in Tanzania's Kagera region, which had previously experienced an outbreak in 2023.
On January 10, the WHO was informed of six suspected cases, five of them fatal, showing symptoms of viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF), including headache, fever, muscle pain, diarrhea, and vomiting with blood.
By January 11, the number of suspected cases had risen to nine, with eight fatalities. Health workers are among the suspected cases, highlighting the risk of transmission in healthcare settings.
Although there is no approved treatment or vaccine for Marburg virus, an investigational vaccine was used in Rwanda's 2023 outbreak to protect health workers.
Due to its high fatality rate, infections among health workers and the virus’s unclear source, the WHO has assessed the risk to Tanzania as high.
Kagera’s location as a transit hub with significant cross-border movement adds to the regional risk.
However, the global risk remains low, as Kagera is not near major international airports.
Content Editor: Dr. Subhana Siyad
Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP)
Source :
Published on :
January 18, 2025
Outbreak, Viral Haemorrhagic Fever
From Heatwaves to Waistlines: The Climate-Obesity Relationship
Climate change is emerging to be a contributor to obesity, which is also driven by a complex mix of genetic, behavioral, and social factors.
Rising temperatures impact behavior, leading to reduced physical activity and changes in diet, especially in developing countries.
Research studies found that a 1°C increase in temperature was linked to a 4% rise in children's BMI and a 2% increase in women's BMI. The studies showed a U-shaped relationship between temperature and BMI meaning higher rates of obesity at both high and low temperatures.
Extreme heat also has long-term consequences, causing people to stay indoors and rely on more calorie-dense, processed foods due to higher agricultural prices and lower crop yields. The nutritional content of crops are also affected as climate change causes decrease in protein levels in staples like rice and wheat.
Rising temperatures further affect obesity by decreasing energy expenditure through adaptive thermogenesis, a process that helps regulate body temperature.
To combat these effects, experts emphasize solutions like increased physical education in schools and climate-resilient agricultural practices to improve nutrition and prevent obesity.
Content Editor: Dr. Subhana Siyad
John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Source :
Published on :
January 18, 2025
Climate Change, Obesity
From Poverty Reduction to TB Control: The Success of Brazil’s Bolsa Família Program
A landmark study conducted by Jesus GS, Pinto PFPS, Silva AF et al. involving 54.5 million low-income Brazilians demonstrated that conditional cash transfer programs like Brazil’s Bolsa Família Program (BFP) can help achieve global tuberculosis (TB) targets.
Implemented in 2004, the BFP provides financial support to poor families on the condition that they meet specific health and education requirements.
The study analyzed TB incidence, mortality, and case fatality rates between 2004 and 2015, comparing BFP beneficiaries (23.9 million) with non-beneficiaries (30.6 million).
Results showed a significant reduction in TB cases and deaths among beneficiaries, with a more than 50% decrease in extremely poor individuals and 60% among indigenous populations.
The improved access to food, reducing food insecurity and malnutrition—a key TB risk factor—was identified as a major reason for these outcomes.
The study underscores the role of social protection programs in reducing TB burden, highlighting their potential to support global health goals, including the END-TB strategy and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Content Editor: Dr. Subhana Siyad
Barcelona Institute for Global Health ISGlobal
Source :
Published on :
January 18, 2025
Cash Transfer, Tuberculosis
Next chapter in Atmanirbhar Bharat: Indigenous Paracetamol production
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh unveiled the indegenously produced medication "Paracetamol" by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) on the 40th Foundation Day of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi.
In line with the goal of "Self-Reliant India," this invention by CSIR, which is affiliated to the Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India, intends to make India self-reliant in the production of paracetamol by lowering reliance on imported chemicals.
Satya Deeptha Pharmaceuticals Ltd., a company based in Karnataka, will use this innovation to manufacture reasonably priced paracetamol domestically.
Content Editor: Dr. Subhana Siyad
Press Information Bureau
Source :
Published on :
January 18, 2025
Drug Production
India’s Surveillance Systems on Alert Amid Global Respiratory Illness Trends
To address the growing number of respiratory disease cases in China, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) convened a Joint Monitoring Group (JMG) meeting. The World Health Organisation (WHO), Disaster Management Cell, Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) were among the organisations that sent experts to take part in the meeting.
Following conclusions were drawn after the meeting:
The surge in respiratory illnesses in China is linked to common seasonal pathogens like the Influenza virus, RSV, and HMPV, which are already circulating globally, including in India.
India has a robust surveillance system in place for Influenza Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI), which is not showing any concerning trends.
As a precaution, the ICMR will increase HMPV testing.
According to data from recent preparedness drills, India is prepared to deal with an increase in respiratory infections, and its health systems are alert to new threats.
Content Editor: Dr. Subhana Siyad
Press Information Bureau
Source :
Published on :
January 18, 2025
Respiratory Illness, Surveillance
Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY Takes Off in Odisha, Strengthening Healthcare for Millions
On 13th January 2025, Odisha took a step towards ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Utkarsh Odisha’ by becoming the 34th state to implement the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), following a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Health Authority (NHA)
AB PM-JAY will converge with Odisha’s existing Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY), offering a health cover of Rs 5 lakh per family per year, with an additional Rs 5 lakh for women members.
It will cover around 1.03 crore families (4.5 crore people) and provide access to nearly 2,000 medical procedures across 27 specialties.
The scheme also benefits people aged 70 and above through the Ayushman Vay Vandana Card.
The scheme will provide cashless treatment in over 29,000 empaneled hospitals, significantly benefiting Odisha’s tribal, underprivileged, and migrant populations.
The impact of the program since its inception includes
8.19 crore hospital admissions,
₹1.13 lakh crore spent on healthcare for marginalized communities,
In remote and conflict-prone areas, such as Bastar and Bijapur, hospital admissions have increased,
In Madhya Pradesh, there was a 30-fold rise in hospital admissions,
Additionally, access to cancer treatment has increased by 33%, improving early diagnosis and health-seeking behavior, especially among women.
Content Editor: Dr. Subhana Siyad
Press Information Bureau
Source :
Published on :
January 18, 2025
Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, Health Insurance
Strengthen Monitoring and Evaluation of Food Products: GAO Recommendations to FDA
The Food and Drug Association (FDA) oversees nearly 80% of the United States’ food supply, including vegetables, fruits, processed and packaged foods, and seafood.
Millions of Americans annually suffer from foodborne illnesses, highlighting the importance of food-related inspections. As per the Government Accountability Office, the FDA has failed to meet the mandated inspection targets for domestic and foreign food facilities since 2018.
Average annual domestic inspections by the FDA (2018-2023): 8,353; however, high-risk facilities were not inspected as mandated due to COVID-19 disruptions.
Foreign inspections: Only 9% of the FDA's annual target of 19,200 foreign inspections were met in 2019, with an average of just 917 inspections per year.
As of July 2024, the FDA had only 432 investigators, which is about 90% of its capacity, hampering inspection efforts.
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) recommended
The US Congress should direct the FDA to determine and communicate realistic annual foreign inspection targets.
The FDA should improve procedures to minimize incomplete inspections and establish a performance management process for food safety.
Content Editor: Dr Tanya
USGAO
Source :
Published on :
January 17, 2025
Food Handling, Food Packaging, FDA
Assessment of Uptake and Disparities in RSV Prevention Measures Among Infants: Insights from a US-based study
In 2023, two new interventions to protect infants from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) became available in the United States:
RSVpreF vaccine for pregnant individuals to be administered at 32-36 weeks gestation - RSVpreF, which protects infants through maternal vaccination, demonstrated an efficacy of 82% against severe RSV disease in the first few months of life.
Nirsevimab, a monoclonal antibody for infants under 8 months - Nirsevimab was approved in the US for use in infants and showed high efficacy in clinical trials, with an 81% reduction in RSV-related hospitalizations.
A study was conducted at Kaiser Permanente Northern California to assess the effect on uptake of RSVpreF and nirsevimab of various sociodemographic factors associated.
Objective: To estimate the uptake of protective measures against RSV amongst mothers and infants born in at KPNC.
Methods: Data from electronic medical records of infants born at KPNC to mothers aged 15 years to 49 years October 17, 2023 and March 31, 2024 was reviewed.
Results: The results revealed that out of 17,251 infants, 77.5% received protection through either RSVpreF or Nirsevimab. 33.9% were exposed solely to RSVpreF, while 40.9% received only nirsevimab. A small percentage (2.7%) received both interventions. Notably, younger mothers were less likely to have received RSVpreF but more likely to have their infants receive nirsevimab.
Conclusion: Nearly 80% of infants born during the RSV season received protection against the virus, with disparities in vaccination rates among different demographic groups.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr Tanya
JAMA Network
Source :
Published on :
January 17, 2025
Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Communicable Diseases, Vaccines
Re-evaluating Water Fluoridation: Cognitive Impact and Safety Concerns
Water fluoridation, long considered a public health success for preventing tooth decay, is now debated due to its possible link to lower I.Q. scores in children.
A recent JAMA Pediatrics study reviewed 74 studies from 10 countries, revealing an inverse relationship between fluoride exposure and cognitive abilities.
Although fluoride levels in U.S. drinking water are typically low, nearly three million Americans consume water exceeding 1.5 parts per million.
Critics question the necessity of water fluoridation, suggesting that topical fluoride from toothpaste and dental treatments may be sufficient.
Former NIEHS director Linda Birnbaum highlights concerns about fluoride’s potential neurotoxicity and advises limiting exposure for pregnant women and infants. Advocates for further investigation urge an unbiased evaluation of fluoride’s safety and efficacy, warning that failure to address these concerns could erode public trust in health policies. A reassessment of fluoride’s role in public health remains critical.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr Chinmay
JAMA Pediatrics
Source :
Published on :
January 16, 2025
Water Fluoridation, Public health measures
Urgent Call to Address Cryptosporidiosis: A Neglected Threat to Child Health
Cryptosporidiosis is a severe public health issue, causing acute diarrhea, malnutrition, developmental delays, and high child mortality, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, South America, and Asia. Responsible for 7.5 million cases and 200,000 child deaths annually, the disease primarily affects children under five.
Existing treatment, nitazoxanide, is largely ineffective for malnourished or immunocompromised patients, leaving a critical need for better solutions.
The Cryptosporidiosis Therapeutics Advocacy Group (CTAG) is pushing for its inclusion in the WHO’s list of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), which would drive global awareness, funding, and collaboration.
Such recognition could enhance global awareness, increase funding, and foster collaboration, thereby catalyzing research efforts, expediting the development of treatments and vaccines, and encouraging pharmaceutical companies to invest through incentives like FDA priority review vouchers.
Promising new treatments are currently in clinical trials, offering hope for effective solutions. Global action is essential to reduce cryptosporidiosis’s devastating impact on vulnerable populations, especially young children in low-income regions.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr Chinmay
Global Health Now (Johns Hopkins School of Public Health)
Source :
Published on :
January 16, 2025
Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD), Cryptosporidiosis, International Health News
National AYUSH Mission's Impact Highlighted in New Film Series
The Ministry of AYUSH launched the film series "AYUSH for All: Holistic Health Care through National AYUSH Mission," showcasing the significant impact of the National AYUSH Mission (NAM) in delivering affordable and holistic healthcare, particularly to rural and underserved communities.
NAM Achievements
Establishment of 167 integrated AYUSH Hospitals and upgradation of 416 hospitals and 5036 dispensaries.
Integrated provision of AYUSH services in 2322 Primary Health Centres (PHCs), 715 Community Health Centres (CHCs), and 314 District Hospitals (DHs).
Supply of essential medicines to 996 hospitals and 12,405 dispensaries every year.
Establishment of 3883 Yoga Wellness Centres, 1055 AYUSH Grams, and 12,500 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.
The Mission is working towards decreasing healthcare costs, expanding access to traditional healthcare, and promoting hollistic care across the nation.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr Shayari
Press Information Bureau of India
Source :
Published on :
January 11, 2025
National AYUSH Mission
Health Ministry Cracks Down on Fake Drug Network in Kolkata
The Union Health Ministry, in collaboration with the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) (East Zone) and Drugs Control Directorate, West Bengal authorities, conducted a raid in Kolkata, resulting in a significant seizure of counterfeit drugs.
Spurious anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and other drugs valued at approximately ₹6.60 crore were confiscated from 'M/s Care and Cure For You' in Kolkata.
The drugs were falsely labeled as being imported from countries such as Ireland, Turkey, the USA, and Bangladesh but lacked proper import documentation, confirming their counterfeit nature. The wholesale firm's proprietor was arrested and placed in 14-day judicial custody to aid further investigation.
Samples of the seized drugs have been sent for quality testing, and authorities are working to uncover the full extent of the illegal drug network.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr Shayari
Press Information Bureau of India
Source :
Published on :
January 11, 2025
Drug Quality, Counterfeit Drug Prevention
NAMASTE scheme in focus: 9th meeting reviews implementation of Manual Scavengers Act, 2013
Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar chaired 9th Central Monitoring Committee meeting to review Supreme Court orders on manual scavenging
Only 257 districts have uploaded manual scavenging-free certificates; Minister urged immediate compliance from remaining districts
States/UTs directed to establish mandatory committees and commissions under MS Act, 2013
Government launched NAMASTE (National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem) scheme to ensure safety of sewer workers, aiming for zero fatalities and mechanized cleaning last year.
Meeting attended by National Commission for Safai Karamcharies officials and representatives from states, UTs, and central ministries
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr Prachi
Press Information Bureau
Source :
Published on :
January 10, 2025
Sanitation
NIMHANS Golden Jubilee Celebrations: Advancing Mental Health Care in India
The Hon’ble President of India addressed the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of NIMHANS in Bengaluru in the presence of Shri JP Nadda, Union Health Minister and Shri Siddaramaiah, Chief Minister of Karnataka.
The President lauded NIMHANS for its innovative research and contributions to mental healthcare evolution in India.
She highlighted the Bellary model and Tele-MANAS, which served 70 lakh people in two years, as benchmarks in mental health delivery.
NIMHANS received the prestigious Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion from WHO.
New facilities include:
Psychiatry Speciality Block for holistic mental health care and rehabilitation.
Central Laboratory Complex combining five advanced diagnostic services.
Advanced 3T MRI scanner and DSA system for precision diagnostics.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr Anamika
Press Information Bureau of India
Source :
Published on :
January 10, 2025
NIMHANS, mental health care, neurosciences
2024: A Landmark Year for Disability Inclusion in India
From expanding rehabilitation infrastructure to fostering collaborations and celebrating diversity, the year 2024 highlighted a strong commitment towards empowering persons with disabilities (Divyangjan) and ensuring their active participation in all aspects of life.
India celebrated nine years of Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan, promoting barrier-free infrastructure and services for persons with disabilities.
A 24x7 National Disability Helpline (14456) was launched, and over 10,000 pages were made accessible for visually impaired individuals.
The Indian Sign Language dictionary was expanded with 2,500 new terms, and concept videos were introduced for hearing-impaired students.
New employability courses and vocational training programs were launched. Thirty-five new District Disability Rehabilitation Centres were established.
Events like Purple Fest and Divya Kala Mela showcased inclusivity and entrepreneurial talent across the country.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr Anamika
Press Information Bureau of India
Source :
Published on :
January 10, 2025
Disability, inclusion, Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in India, cases reported.
During the routine surveillance of ICMR for various viral pathogens causing respiratory illness, two infants admitted with bronchopneumonia tested positive for HMPV.
These infants include a 8-month-old infant , currently recovering and a 3-month-old who has been discharged, both having no history of travel outside India
HMPV has spread globally and cases are being reported and documented
Continuous monitoring through various surveillance channels and preparedness drills are being ensured by the Union Health Ministry, India. Moreover, Public health interventions are ready to be deployed if there is a potential increase in such cases.
Content Editor: Dr Sivanthiga
Press information bureau
Source :
Published on :
January 7, 2025
Public Health Surveillance,Health System Preparedness, HMPV
8th Siddha Day - advancing public health through ancient wisdom
The 8th Siddha Day, themed Siddha for Public Health, was celebrated on December 19, 2024, in Chennai.
It was organized by the Central Council for Research in Siddha (CCRS), Ministry of Ayush, in association with the National Institute of Siddha and the Tamil Nadu Government.
The event was attended by 1500 participants.
Awards were presented for academic excellence, contributions to Siddha medicine, and winners of mini-projects.
A medicinal plants expo showcased 240 live plants, raw materials, ancient manuscripts, and therapies.
The Siddha Formulary of India Part 3 (Tamil) and event souvenirs were released during the celebration.
Content Editor: Dr Anamika
Press Information Bureau of India
Source :
Published on :
January 7, 2025
Siddha medicine, CCRS, AYUSH
National conference of Homoeopathy in mental health
The National Conference on Homoeopathy in Mental Health was held on December 23-24, 2024, at NHRIMH, Kottayam, as part of its golden jubilee celebrations.
Organized by NHRIMH under CCRH, Ministry of Ayush, the event focused on Optimizing the Role of Homoeopathy in Promoting Mental Health.
Inaugurated by the Minister of Ayush via video message, the event included brainstorming sessions, panel discussions, and lectures.
Eminent speakers discussed topics like integrative medicine, autism, ethics, and AI in mental health care.
The conference emphasized Homoeopathy's role in safe and minimal side-effect interventions in mental health. Competitions, case presentations, and research insights enriched the event.
The conference explored a future roadmap for Homoeopathic integration in research, education, and care through stakeholder discussions.
Content Editor: Dr Anamika
Press Information Bureau of India
Source :
Published on :
January 7, 2025
Homoeopathy, Mental Health, AYUSH
Paradox of moderate drinking, the potential health benefits and conflicts of interest in Stroke and CHD
The December Evidence Review by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has re-established the hypothesis that moderate drinking may reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke deaths, as well as overall mortality, compared to absolute alcohol abstenance.
Key findings of the study with regards to moderate drinking stated:
10% increase in breast cancer risk.
18% reduction in cardiovascular disease deaths
16% lower risk of all-cause mortality.
Increased incidence of colorectal, esophageal, and head and neck cancers.
The meta-analysis included only four studies, one indicating that moderate drinking might lower the risk of sudden cardiac death in women. However, these conclusions are based on observational studies that show correlations but do not establish a cause-and-effect relationship.
The 2020 US dietary guidelines acknowledged that even moderate drinking increased the risk of mortality due to alcohol consumption but maintained that up to 2 drinks per day for men and 1 for women is within safe limits.
In contrast, health authorities from the World Health Organization and several countries assert that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr Tanya
Consensus study report by National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
Source :
Published on :
January 7, 2025
Addiction, Alcohol, Neoplasm
WHO deploys expert team to investigate mysterious outbreak in DR Congo
First identified in late October, the outbreak has now resulted in 394 cases and 30 deaths, with symptoms including fever, cough, breathing difficulties, headache, and anemia.
The WHO's team, which includes epidemiologists, clinicians, and lab technicians, is aiding local authorities in surveillance and case identification. Samples are being analyzed in Kigali, with results expected soon.
The outbreak has prompted heightened traveler screening in Hong Kong for those arriving from DRC-related hubs.
Meanwhile, a patient in Ohio, recently arriving from Tanzania, was briefly hospitalized for flu-like symptoms but is no longer in isolation.
For further reading, Click here
Content Editor Dr. Anubhav
World Health Organisation
Source :
Published on :
January 4, 2025
Outbreak investigation, International Health
Polio resurgence in Pakistan, Nigeria, and Chad amid persistent challenges
Pakistan reported three new wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) cases, all from Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, bringing its 2024 total to 48. These cases, with onset in October, reflect a sharp rise this year.
In Nigeria, seven more circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) cases were reported, raising the country’s total for 2024 to 80. The new cases span five states, including Katsina, Jigawa, and Yobe.
Chad confirmed two new cVDPV2 cases, bringing its total to 15 for the year.
Contributing to the rise in cases are forced repatriations, particularly of around 730,000 Afghan refugees, as well as vaccine hesitancy, militant opposition, and attacks on vaccination teams in conflict zones. These challenges, including unpredictable population movements and barriers in reaching high-risk areas, continue to hinder polio eradication efforts in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and neighboring regions.
Content Editor Dr. Anubhav
Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI)
Source :
Published on :
January 4, 2025
Polio, International health, infectious diseases, disease eradication
Incentive-based policy reduces antibiotic prescriptions in children in Japan
A 2018 Japanese policy offering financial incentives for not prescribing antibiotics to children aged 3 and younger with viral infections aimed to address Japan's high rates of inappropriate antibiotic use, as highlighted by a 2015 global survey.
The study, following over 165,000 children, reported:
44.9% reduction in antibiotic prescriptions within the first month, with a sustained 19.5% decrease over 48 months.
Broad-spectrum antibiotic use dropped by 24.4%.
Physicians were incentivized with ¥800 per case to avoid unnecessary antibiotics, coupled with educating caregivers on viral infections.
The policy did not result in higher healthcare costs or adverse outcomes.
This evidence supports incentive-based strategies as effective tools for reducing unnecessary antibiotic use while empowering healthcare providers and educating the public.
Content Editor: Dr. Anubhav
Journal of Infectious Diseases Society of America
Source :
Published on :
January 4, 2025
Antibiotic resistance, International health
Over 1 in 5 adults worldwide has genital herpes: Need for better prevention and treatment options- WHO
The World Health Organization, in its press release from 11 December 2024, cited a key study published on 10 December 2024, which estimated that 'Over 1 in 5 adults worldwide, i.e., approximately 846 million people aged 15-49, have genital herpes.' Further, more than 200 million people aged 15 to 49 had at least one symptomatic episode in 2020. Each year, around 42 million people acquire a new infection, underscoring the critical need for improved prevention and treatment strategies.
As is known, most infections cause few or no symptoms, but some people experience painful genital sores and blisters. There is no definitive cure for genital herpes, but treatment can relieve symptoms. Condoms reduce the risk of transmission. As is known, HSV-2 is more serious and is linked with a higher risk of HIV. HSV-I primarily causes oral herpes but can also cause genital infections.
The WHO emphasized the need for better prevention treatment options and, notably, increased research for new vaccines and therapies.
Content Editor: Dr. Sathya Prashaath
Sexually Transmitted Infections. DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2024-056307
Source :
Published on :
January 4, 2025
Genital herpes, sexually transmitted infections
India's efforts in ensuring Women’s Dignity and Safety
Sanitation and Safety: Emphasizing the importance of sanitation for women's dignity and safety, addressing open defecation and the high cost of sanitary napkins.
Swachh Bharat Mission: Through a saturation approach, access to safe sanitation through the construction of 11.64 crore household toilets, access to tap water connections for 15.13 crore rural households, and provision of clean cooking gas connections to over 10.3 crore women
Community and Public Toilets: Construction of these facilities aids marginalized groups, including women, by reducing health risks and exposure to unsafe public spaces.
Swachh Vidyalaya Mission: Ensuring functional toilets for girls in schools, with 97.48% of government schools having separate girls' toilets.
Menstrual Hygiene Management: Making sanitary napkins tax-exempt and affordable, promoting menstrual hygiene, and increasing girls' enrollment in educational institutions.
Working Women Hostels: Commitment to providing safe and affordable hostel facilities with clean toilets for working women through the "Sakhi Niwas" component of Mission Shakti.
Content Editor: Dr. Sathya Prashaath
Press Information Bureau, Government of India (Release ID: 2085610)
Source :
Published on :
January 3, 2025
Swachh Bharat Mission, Menstrual Hygiene Management, Sakhi Niwas
Government of India provides data on current health infrastructure status under NPNCD
Under NP-NCD, 770 District NCD Clinics, 372 District Day Care Centres, 233 Cardiac Care Units, and 6410 Community Health Centre-based NCD Clinics have been set up as of 20 December 2024, as informed by the Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.
As directed in the NPNCD guidelines, these centres focus on curative services, while the community level outreach focuses on the prevention of and screening for common NCDs like diabetes, hypertension, and various cancers.
Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) play a crucial role in raising awareness and promoting healthy lifestyles.
Content Editor : Dr. Sathya Prashaath
Press Information Bureau of India, Government of India (Release ID: 2086515).
Source :
Published on :
January 3, 2025
Non-Communicable Diseases, NP-NCD, National Programme for
Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases
Conceptualized definitions of kindness, compassion, and empathy: A BMJ study
Objective: The scoping review aimed to define and conceptualize kindness, compassion, and empathy in healthcare.
Methods: The study reviewed published research from five databases and one search engine and segregated literature that explicitly addressed the definitions or conceptualizations of kindness, compassion, and empathy within the healthcare environment.
Results: Out of 1,348 initial results reviewed, 107 articles were screened in full text, leading to the final inclusion of 42 papers. Key similarities and differences among kindness, compassion, and empathy were identified, and a model illustrating their relationship on a stimulus-response-action continuum was proposed. The review even highlighted definitional challenges in treating these terms as separate concepts.
Definitions established by the study:
“Empathy is an internal, emotional response of wanting to share another's feelings or situation, whether suffering or joy, and informs action rather than being an action itself.”
“Compassion is responding to others' suffering with a desire to alleviate that suffering, but that may or may not result in outward action.”
“Kindness is a set of actions in response to a desire to help others flourish, informed by either an empathetic response or proactively chosen.”
Conclusions: The findings indicated that kindness, compassion, and empathy have distinct themes and roles along the continuum. Kindness should be recognized as a primary concept rather than a secondary to compassion or empathy.
Content Editor: Dr. Tanya
BMJ Leader Journal
Source :
Published on :
January 3, 2025
Health Communication, IEC, BCC, Kindness, Psychology
Oral Health Inequalities: Economic Burden of Dental Caries Across Nations
The study investigated disparities in oral health among the population aged 12-65 years of age by assessing the economic impact of dental caries based on deprivation levels across six countries. The findings were:
Exploratory analysis utilized national data on decayed, missing, and filled teeth and the likelihood of receiving interventions such as restorative procedures and extractions for various socioeconomic groups.
The economic burden of dental caries is significantly higher among the most deprived rung of the population, with the UK experiencing the highest average costs at around £18,000 per person.
Potential healthcare cost savings from implementing preventive measures, including community water fluoridation, sugar-sweetened beverage taxes, school education programs, and oral health campaigns, as well as individual practices like using fluoridated toothpaste, could reduce caries progression rates by 30%, particularly benefiting the most deprived groups.
A targeted approach to prevention could yield even greater savings, with reductions estimated at about £14,000 ($17,728) per person in the UK's most disadvantaged population.
With a levelling-up approach, cost reductions in the most deprived group ranged from US$3,948 in Indonesia to US$17,728 in the UK.
Content Editor: Dr. Tanya
BMC Public Health
Source :
Published on :
January 3, 2025
OOPE, Oral Health, Catastrophic Expenditure
Global Health Setback: WHO Reports Decline in Health Spending
The World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2024 Global Health Expenditure Report reveals a decline in per capita government health spending across all income groups in 2022, following pandemic-era surges.
This trend jeopardizes progress toward universal health coverage (UHC), leaving 4.5 billion people without access to essential services and 2 billion facing financial hardships due to healthcare costs.
WHO’s findings indicate that out-of-pocket expenditure remains the primary source of health financing in many low- and middle-income countries, perpetuating cycles of poverty.
Even in high-income nations, significant out-of-pocket payments are leading to unmet healthcare needs.
The report underscores the need for robust public funding mechanisms to deliver affordable health services.
Lessons from the pandemic highlight the effectiveness of government spending in responding to emergencies and saving lives.
WHO calls on leaders to eliminate impoverishment caused by health expenses by 2030, emphasizing that sustainable health investments are crucial for future resilience.
Click here to read more
Content Editor: Dr. Dheena
WHO Global Health Expenditure Report 2024
Source :
Published on :
January 2, 2025
Universal Health Coverage, Healthcare Financing, Out of Pocket Expenditure
Silent killer: WHO Highlights global drowning crisis
The World Health Organization (WHO) released its first-ever global report on drowning prevention, revealing that 3 lakh lives were lost to drowning worldwide in 2021, averaging 30 deaths every hour.
A disproportionate 92% of fatalities occurred in low- and middle-income countries, with South-East Asia accounting for 28% of the global burden.
The report highlights that children under five are most vulnerable, constituting 24% of drowning deaths.
Despite a 38% global decline in drowning rates since 2000, the progress has been uneven, with the WHO’s South-East Asia Region witnessing only a 48% reduction.
WHO emphasized that nearly all drowning deaths are preventable.
Key measures include integrating swimming lessons into school curriculums, improving flood risk management, and training bystanders in rescue techniques.
WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus urged countries to prioritize drowning prevention, emphasizing its potential to save millions of lives and avert an estimated $4 trillion in economic losses by 2050.
Click here to read more
Content Editor: Dr. Dheena
WHO global status report on drowning prevention
Source :
Published on :
January 2, 2025
Drowning, Preventive Care
Bridging data gaps: MoSPI’s push for SDG excellence
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released its latest National Indicator Framework (NIF) Progress Report along with two handbooks showcasing time-series data on India's progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Over 95% of the national SDG indicators now have available data, marking a significant leap in monitoring capabilities.
Key highlights from the SDG India Index 2023-24 by NITI Aayog reveal an improved national score of 71, up from 66 in 2020-21, with advancements in 11 key goals, including SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 13 (Climate Action)
MoSPI partnered with NITI Aayog and the United Nations via a Tripartite MoU for data-driven SDG monitoring. The Data for Development Coordination Forum (DDCF) was formed to enhance indicator frameworks and foster collaboration.
SDG frameworks are being expanded to district level, supported by SDG coordination centers. Workshops, exhibitions, and aligned surveys promote awareness and action on SDGs.
Through these initiatives, India strengthens its commitment to the 2030 Agenda, backed by MoSPI's robust data systems and NITI Aayog's emphasis on competitive federalism.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr Dheena
Press Information Bureau
Source :
Published on :
January 2, 2025
Monitoring and Evaluation, NITI Aayog, SDG
One Nation, One Subscription, Govt. towards revolutionizing knowledge accessibility in India
The Government of India unveiled the One Nation One Subscription (ONOS) scheme, a groundbreaking initiative to expand access to global research publications.
ONOS will provide centralized access to over 13,000 journals for more than 6,300 government academic and R&D institutions starting January 2025.
With a three-year budget of ₹6,000 crore, ONOS aims to empower 1.8 crore students, faculty, and researchers with seamless access to top-quality research across disciplines, fostering interdisciplinary innovation.
Supported by a web portal from INFLIBNET, authenticated users will enjoy both institutional and remote access to subscribed content.
ONOS is part of a broader vision for open access transformation in India, complementing efforts like the Anusandhan National Research Foundation and NEP 2020. Beyond journal access, it includes ₹150 crore annually for Article Processing Charges (APC) in Open Access journals and emphasizes enhancing Indian journals and holistic research evaluation.
By democratizing knowledge and aligning with India’s innovation goals, ONOS represents a monumental stride in making research accessible to all.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr Dheena
Press Information Bureau
Source :
Published on :
January 2, 2025
Research, Centralised Journal Access, One Nation One Subscription
Air pollution in India claiming millions of life: Karolinska Institutet Study
Air pollution in India, particularly from particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers in diameter (PM2.5), poses a significant health threat as these particles can enter the lungs and bloodstream.
A recent study has explored the correlation between PM2.5 levels and mortality over a decade, utilizing data from 655 districts across India from 2009 to 2019. The study findings include:
An increase of 10 micrograms per cubic meter in PM2.5 concentration is associated with an 8.6% rise in mortality rates.
Approximately 3.8 million deaths during this period can be attributed to PM2.5 levels exceeding India's air quality standards of 40 micrograms per cubic meter.
The estimated deaths jumped to 16.6 million, accounting for nearly 25% of total mortality in the study timeframe when compared to the stricter World Health Organization (WHO) guideline of 5 micrograms per cubic meter.
The research underscores that nearly all India's population lives in areas where PM2.5 concentrations surpass WHO recommendations, exposing about 1.4 billion individuals annually to harmful air pollution. Some regions recorded levels as high as 119 micrograms per cubic meter, far exceeding both Indian and WHO safety thresholds. Hence, implementing stricter regulations and measures to curb emissions is crucial.
Content Editor: Dr Tanya
The Lancet Planetary Health
Source :
Published on :
January 2, 2025
Air Pollution, PM2.5, Respiratory Diseases
Official one-stop portal for AYUSH Visa-India, a growing hub for Medical Value Travel
The Ministry of Tourism formulated the National Strategy & Roadmap for Medical and Wellness Tourism, an initiative toward Aatmanirbhar Bharat. One of those initiatives was the ‘Heal in India’ initiative. The Ministry of AYUSH suggested Medical Value Travel (MVT). Over a year ago, a separate category of Visas—the AYUSH Visas—was introduced.
These were for foreigners solely visiting India to avail themselves of treatment under the AYUSH system of medicine.
Four sub-categories of AYUSH visas are:
i)AYUSH Visa (AY-1) - For the foreigner seeking treatment.
ii)eAYUSH Visa - Also for the foreigner seeking treatment.
iii)AYUSH Attendant Visa(AY-2) - For their attendants
iv)e-AYUSH Attendant Visa - Also for their attendants
Individuals seeking an AY Visa shall submit the Accredited AYUSH institution-issued medical invitation letter. This shall enable them to seek therapeutic care and wellness in AYUSH hospitals accredited by the National Commission for Homeopathy(NCH)/ National Accreditation Boards for Hospitals(NABH) /National Commission for Indian System of Medicine(NCISM).
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched the first official ‘one-stop’ portal to provide foreigners with information about MVT.
Content Editor: Dr. Sivanthiga
Press Information Bureau of India, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India.
Source :
Published on :
December 29, 2024
Medical Tourism, AYUSH
Convergence of ESI Scheme and AB-PMJAY - A Landmark Health Systems Initiative
The Employees’ State Insurance (ESI) Corporation had entered into a partnership with the National Health Authority (NHA), leading to a convergence between AB-PMJAY and the ESI Scheme, thereby allowing ESI beneficiaries (who are more than 13 crore in number) to access services at AB-PMJAY empanelled hospitals and vice versa.
This convergence was first piloted in Ahmednagar (Maharashtra) and Bidar (Karnataka). Upon successfully completing this pilot project, the convergence of the ESI Scheme with PM-JAY was extended to 157 districts in 12 states/UTs. ESI beneficiaries of these districts will be able to access medical care services in AB-PMJAY empanelled hospitals.
The AB-PMJAY and ESIC convergence is aimed at leveraging the presence of an established network of 30,000+ empanelled hospitals under AB-PMJAY. It will also create a higher demand for health services at ESIC-empanelled hospitals that may be underutilized.
Benefits
1. ESI beneficiaries will get free access to healthcare providers and packages at AB-PMJAY empanelled hospitals by using their ESI cards, especially in the absence of an ESIC healthcare delivery institution in their vicinity.
2. Similarly, beneficiaries of AB PM-JAY can use their PM-JAY card to access free treatment at ESIC empanelled hospitals.
Content Editor: Dr. Sivanthiga
Press Information Bureau of India, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India (Release ID: 2078254)
Employees’ State Insurance Corporation of India
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Published on :
December 29, 2024
Health Insurance, Social security.
The “Hamara Shauchalay Hamara Samman” Campaign launched
“Hamara Shauchalay Hamara Samman” Campaign (HSHS) was launched on World Toilet Day (19 November 2024) and concluded on Human Rights Day (10 December 2024)
Organized by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, the campaign engaged 3.8 million participants across >50,000 events nationwide and led to the upgradation of 1.54 lakh Community Sanitary Complexes (CSCs) and the sanctioning of over 3.35 lakh Individual Household Latrines (IHHLs).
Innovations included Google Maps tracking in Uttar Pradesh, sanitary marts in Mahoba, and LED awareness vehicles in Jammu & Kashmir.
Over 750 pink toilets were built in Rajasthan, linking sanitation to dignity and equality.
The HHHS Campaign highlighted “Sanitation as a Fundamental Right”, and highlighted the link between clean toilets, dignity, and equality.
Content Editor: Dr. Anamika
Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India
Source :
Published on :
December 28, 2024
Hamara Shauchalay Hamara Samman (HSHS), World Toilet Day, Human Rights Day, Ministry of Jal Shakti
Convergence of ESIC and AB-PM-JAY - A Health Systems Initiative
In the context of social security for the labour force, a recent initiative involves Employee State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) convergence with Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mandri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PM-JAY).
This initiative expands health care access to 14.43 ESI beneficiaries and their dependents in 30,000 PM-JAY empanelled hospitals including charitable hospitals for comprehensive health care.
It also involves PM-JAY beneficiaries to avail ESIC hospitals for health care access ensuring convergence of two schemes.
ESIC beneficiaries can avail PM-JAY empanelled hospital for secondary and tertiary care with no financial limit.
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Content Editor: Dr. Sivanthiga
Press Information Bureau, ESIC
Source :
Published on :
December 28, 2024
Health insurance, Social security