Alert for Salt intake : A direct Cardiovascular risk Multiplier Alert for Salt intake : A direct Cardiovascular risk Multiplier Content Editor: Dr. Nivetha S July 18, 2023 Indian Express Hypertention, Non communicable diseases, Cardiovascular risk, stroke The recommended salt intake is < 5 gms per day. But Indians take >10 gms per day & exact salt intake is under reported when compared with 24hr Urinary Sodium excretion . Increased salt intake causes more water retention exerting extra Pressure for Heart and Kidney perfusion. The subsequent failures in Glomerular filtration Rate and Na+ excretion cause Hypertension. And the later is responsible for 57% of stroke deaths and 24% of all cardiac deaths. In addition to that, salt decreases the Nitrous oxide production at vessel endothelium affecting the arterial elasticity and stiffness adversely. Decreasing salt intake of 1.75gm in daily intake would contribute to reduction of 4.2/2.1 mmHg (SBP/DBP). By 2020, International Society of Hypertension Practice Guidelines recommended population based efforts to reduce salt intake at cooking , on table and also to avoid High salt containing foods like pickles, pappads , Namkeen chips, Chutney etc. Also, Weight Reduction of 5.1Kg can drastically bring down SBP of 4.3mmHg and DBP of 3.6mmHg DBP. Possible Prevention measures includes measuring BP every 5 years, dietary corrections ( WHO plan globally to reduce salt intake by 2025 ), Abstinence from Alcohol and cigarette and Weight control.

Status of tuberculosis preventive treatment in SEAR Countries Status of tuberculosis preventive treatment in SEAR Countries Content Editor: Dr. Ghurumourthy July 22, 2024 Public Health in Practice Tuberculosis, Infectious diseases, Prevention A workshop in Chennai, India, involving SEAR countries' TB program managers and experts, highlighted key challenges in implementing TPT (TB Preventive Treatment) . The data on TPT guidelines, target groups, diagnostic tests, regimens, adherence mechanisms, and information systems were collected via a questionnaire and presented during the workshop using e-posters. Participants identified several challenges, including: Poor demand and acceptance among beneficiaries Low provider confidence Difficulties in ruling out active TB Supply chain issues Inadequate support systems The workshop emphasized the need for robust community mobilization, provider capacity building, and improved diagnostic access. Strategies such as the use of chest radiography, better supply chain management, and strong advocacy plans were recommended to enhance TPT delivery. Research priorities included developing comprehensive intervention strategies, improving access to diagnostics, and integrating TPT into real-time TB management systems. The workshop concluded that effective implementation requires collaboration among stakeholders, sustained training, and addressing logistical challenges to maximize the benefits of TB preventive therapy. Click here to read more.

Water Amendment (Pollution and Prevention) Act, 2024 Water Amendment (Pollution and Prevention) Act, 2024 Content Editor: Dr Tanya Tanu February 17, 2024 The Water Amendment Act Water pollution, Pollution control Changes in the Water Amendment (Pollution and Prevention) Act passed on 12th February 2024 include: Decriminalizing certain violations of the Act deemed ‘minor’, replacing most of the penalties of imprisonment with fines ranging from ₹10,000 to 15 lacs. In case of an unfair fine, a provision for appeal has been provided in the bill. Empowering the Centre to frame rules to select the chairpersons of State pollution control boards. The text of the Act notes that the amended bill will establish a balance between the severity of the offense and the gravity of the punishment given. However, there were a few points of concern with the new amendment. These include: Absence of deterrent to violating environmental laws due to decriminalization. Limited role of state government in safeguarding the environment. Click here to read more.

Poshan bhi Padhai bhi- a new initiative to strengthen Early childhood care and education Poshan bhi Padhai bhi- a new initiative to strengthen Early childhood care and education Content Editor: Dr. Himabindu Reddy May 15, 2023 Press Information Bureau Public health laws, Maternal and child health With recommendations from the National education policy (NEP) , the ministry has initiated “Poshan bhi padhai bhi” (PBPB) a novel early childhood care and education (ECCE) program, ensuring that India has the largest comprehensive network of high-quality preschools in the world. With the PBPB initiative, NEP stated that all 13.9 lakh Anganwadis across the country will be upgraded with quality infrastructure and trained teachers . It also stipulates that every child will receive two hours of quality preschool lessons every day. PBPB will promote a holistic approach emphasizing the interlinking of child health nutrition and early education . Using the mother tongue as the medium of instruction, community participation will be encouraged in boosting the foundations of our nation’s future generations.

YogiFi: Advancing yoga with smart technology and AI integration Content Editor: Dr. Anamika July 2, 2024 at 2:00:00 PM Yoga, Technology integration, Artificial intelligence YogiFi, a smart AI-enabled yoga mat developed by Wellness Technologies Private Ltd. and incubated at the IIT Mandi Technology Innovation Hub, was presented to the Union Council of Ministers on International Yoga Day. It is equipped with a sensor layer and uses AI and Computer Vision to track the user's postures and give feedback to help correct them in real-time. It also gives simplified yogasana training, ⁠interactive yoga classes, real-time feedback on posture, and personalized coaching. YogiFi has received high praise and recognition from the Ministry of AYUSH, a testament to its quality and effectiveness. It also works seamlessly with other smart devices at home, creating a perfect environment to practice yoga. Click here to read more. Previous Next

Privatization of healthcare services: Boon or bane? Content Editor: Dr. Manu June 1, 2024 at 12:30:00 PM Privatisation, Healthcare Delivery, Literature Review A literature review conducted by researchers at the Department of Social Policy and Intervention in Oxford, UK , studied the effects of privatization on the quality of healthcare-related services. They analyzed 13 longitudinal studies in high-income countries that compared privatized to non-privatised points of care before and after the transition. The overall effect of privatization was negative. The studies showed worse performance in markers with worse performance in hospitals that outsourced healthcare services. These markers include: Inpatient hospital infections Staffing percentages Trust in healthcare staff Mortality rates The authors mention that further analysis is required as the comparison groups were not randomized, data was taken from high-income countries only, and only a few factors of overall quality indicators were assessed. However, they state that scientific evidence for further privatization of healthcare services is weak . Click here to read more. Previous Next

Public Health Daily News Snippets WHO Bulletin Releases Special Edition on Traditional Medicine Ahead of Global Summit The WHO Bulletin published its first special issue on traditional medicine since 1977, featuring research and policy analyses. This release precedes the 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine scheduled for December 2025 in New Delhi. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health, Traditional Medicine Integration Read More Global Summit in Geneva Intensified Efforts to Curb Toxic Mercury Pollution A major international conference was held in Geneva from 3rd to 7th November 2025 to strengthen the global fight against mercury pollution . Delegates collaborated to accelerate the phase-out of this toxic metal from products and industrial processes, aiming to protect human health and the environment. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : United Nations Environmental Health, International Policy Read More Fitness & Nation-Building: Insights from the National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 The first-ever National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 in Mumbai brought together policymakers, athletes, and industry leaders to reaffirm one message: India’s progress towards becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047 depends on how seriously we take fitness today. With icons from sports and cinema joining the conversation, the conclave highlighted fitness as both a cultural shift and a public health necessity. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fit India Movement, Physical Activity, Non-Communicable Diseases, Viksit Bharat Read More Global Evidence Review of the Inequality- Pandemic Cycle: UNAIDS report The UNAIDS established the “Global Council on Inequality, AIDS and Pandemic ” in 2023. Its report “Breaking the inequality-pandemic cycle ” released in November 2025 is based on evidence from more than 1500 peer-reviewed literature and reports from government agencies and research institutions across multiple pandemics and its own empirical studies over the past 2 years. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), 2025 Pandemic preparedness, Social inequality, Global Health Read More Decomposition Analysis of Factors Driving Global Maternal Mortality Reduction A new Lancet Global Health paper highlights evidence that combining family planning with quality maternity services has driven a 41% global decline in maternal deaths since 2000. The study shows how contraception alone prevented more than 77,000 maternal deaths in 2023. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : The Lancet Global Health Maternal Health, Reproductive & Sexual Health, Gender Equality, Family Planning, Declining Global Maternal Mortality Read More Delhi’s Air Quality Sees Noticeable Improvement: CAQM 2025 Report The 2025 update from the C ommission for A ir Q uality M anagement (CAQM ) highlights significant enhancements in Delhi's air quality and a marked reduction in stubble-burning incidents in nearby states. The report offers data-backed evidence of collaborative efforts to reduce pollution through the use of cleaner fuels, improved waste management, and more stringent regulatory measures. Published on : Tuesday, November 18, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Air Pollution, Environmental Health, Public Health Policy Read More Genomic Collaboration for a Safer Future: India and Italy Unite for Pandemic Preparedness The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) round table in New Delhi emphasized the power of genomic research and collaboration in strengthening pandemic preparedness. Experts called for sustained global surveillance and rapid translation of genomic data to safeguard public health. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Genomic Surveillance, Pandemic Readiness Read More WHO Unveils Global Agenda to Strengthen Paediatric Clinical Trials The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global research agenda to close gaps in evidence on child health. It prioritizes equitable, high-impact paediatric trials to ensure that treatments for children are safe, effective, and grounded in sound science. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Health Research, Pediatric Health, Clinical Trials Read More WHO refutes Tylenol-Autism Link: Urges Evidence-Based Care A statement by the current US President, which linked Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism, prompted an immediate response from the World Health Organization. The WHO clarified that no scientific evidence supports this claim and urged reliance on medical guidance. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Maternal and Child Health, Health Communication, Global Health Governance Read More 2025 Lancet Countdown Report on Climate Change and Health Impacts of climate inaction have led to a 23% increase in heat-related deaths since the 1990s. Food insecurity affected 124 million more people due to extreme weather in 2023, with losses reaching $1.35 trillion. Addressing climate change has prevented 160,000 premature deaths from coal pollution and supported 16 million jobs in renewable energy. With COP30 ahead, WHO, along with member states, plans to emphasize climate action and a swift transition away from fossil fuels. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Climate change, food insecurity, Sustainability Read More WHO Introduces New Global Framework to Enhance National Health Emergency Response The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global guide, the National Health Emergency Alert and Response Framework, to bolster countries' readiness for health crises. Developed from lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, it provides a standardized approach for managing emergencies. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health Security, Emergency Preparedness Read More Training Modules to Strengthen Chemical Emergency Preparedness and Response in India The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has introduced three specialized training modules to enhance India’s capacity for managing chemical emergencies. This initiative aims to build a skilled, coordinated response system across healthcare and disaster management sectors. 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Rally for Garbage Free Cities on International Day of Zero Waste Rally for Garbage Free Cities on International Day of Zero Waste Content Editor: Dr. Anubhav Mondal March 29, 2023 Press Information Bureau Sanitation, women empowerment Discussions and best practices presentations on Circularity in Garbage Free Cities, Women and Youth for GFC, Business, and Tech for GFC, and Fireside chat with Mayors will be conducted accordingly. The Women-led Swachhotsav , which would see residents rally for garbage-free cities on March 29, 30, and 31, 2023, will be influenced by the Swachh Mashaal March . After that, each ward of a participating Urban Local Body will conduct cleanliness drives in public spaces. For the Mashaal march, more than 2000 cities have already banded together. The event will be organized by MoHUA in collaboration with GIZ, Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection, and UNEP. Under the campaign, the first edition of Women Icons leading Swachhata (WINS) Awards 2023 was announced to recognize high-impact women entrepreneurs or women-led enterprises working for urban cleanliness. Also, a unique peer learning initiative, Swachhata Yatra has been rolled out wherein SHG members engaged as waste entrepreneurs are getting the exciting opportunity of inter-state travel and enriching their experience.

Cold wave in Northwest India January 25, 2023 at 5:24:40 AM Environment "Cold wave to severe cold wave conditions in some pockets over Northern part of Rajasthan, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi & Punjab during 4 - 6 Jan of 2023 also dense to very dense fog and cold day conditions very likely to continue over northwest India during next 4-5 days" reports from IMD. Impact expected are aviation delays, difficult driving conditions ,causes eye irritation & respiratory problem in sensitive people. Previous Next

Advancing mental health solutions: Insights from the 18th Kolokotrones symposium Advancing mental health solutions: Insights from the 18th Kolokotrones symposium Content Editor: Dr. Chinmay December 5, 2024 Harvard T.H. Chan School Of Public Health Mental Health, Public Health, International Health News The 18th Kolokotrones Symposium, organized by Harvard’s CAUSALab and Population Mental Health Lab, addressed challenges in understanding and addressing mental health issues. With nearly one in four U.S. adults affected by conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD , and one in 20 experiencing significant impairment, traditional treatments like therapy and medication are proving inadequate. Karestan Koenen, who leads the lab, emphasized the need for population-based strategies, such as policies that alleviate economic stress to improve mental health. Experts explored diverse topics, including teen depression, opioid overdoses, and PTSD, highlighting the complexity of evaluating interventions. Katherine Keyes noted inconsistent evidence on restricting adolescent social media use, while Magdalena Cerdá described difficulties in assessing harm reduction laws for opioid overdoses due to fragmented data . Discussions also covered child mental health, PTSD’s role in cardiovascular risk, and the effects of childhood trauma. The panel stressed better data, advanced methodologies, and innovative tools like AI for meaningful progress Click here to read more.