The National Capital hopes to breathe better Content Editor: Dr.Sivanthiga Air pollution The Air Quality index (AQI) of Delhi was'severe' and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change implemented stage III strict restrictions in the National Capital Region . Delhi’s average AQI progressively improved to 318 .It fell below the threshold for GRAP stage III implementation(i.e.,Delhi AQI 401- 450). It was decided that Stage III restrictions would be revoked and stage I and Stage II actions of GRAP would still remain in place to prevent from slipping further into ‘Severe’ category . These decisions were also made by relying on forecasts given by Indian Meterological Department (IMD)/ Indian Institute of Technology -Madras(IITM) which forecasted ‘Verypoor/poor’ AQI for a few upcoming days. Previous Next

The Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2016 Alcohol Collaborators demonstrate the larger than previously estimated contribution of alcohol to ill health, disability and death globally.1 Alcohol consumption contributed to 3 million deaths in 2016 globally and was responsible for 5.1% of the global burden of disease and injury. Public Health News Analysis Alcohol and the need for public health interventions Content Editor : Dr. Urmimala Maiti Updated on : March 8, 2023 Alcohol Consumption, NFHS-5, Public Health Interventions The National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5) for 2019-21 revealed that nearly 15 crore people (over 15 years of age) consume alcohol in India (1.3% of women and 18.8% of men). This column is an analysis based on the article in The Tribune, “Alcohol's cancer risk calls for policy review” by Rakesh Kochhar, former President of the Indian Society of Gastroenterology. The Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2016 Alcohol Collaborators demonstrate the larger than previously estimated contribution of alcohol to ill health, disability and death globally. (1) Alcohol consumption contributed 3 million deaths in 2016 globally and was responsible for 5.1% of the global burden of disease and injury. The National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5) for 2019-21 revealed that nearly 15 crore people (over 15 years of age) consume alcohol in India (1.3% of women and 18.8% of men). Consequences of alcohol use Alcohol is one of the most important reasons for peptic ulcer disease, hemorrhagic gastritis, cancer of the pharynx, oral cavity, esophagus and larynx, lower bone mineral density, neurological and psychological illnesses, domestic violence, economic and family finances leading to crimes, road traffic accidents, to name a few. There is enough evidence to say that, at low levels of alcohol intake, the increased risk of adverse health outcomes outweighs small reductions in health-related problems. ( 2) Public Health Policies The World Health Organization action plan (2022-2030) was endorsed by the 75th World Health Assembly in May 2022 to effectively implement the global strategy to reduce the harmful use of alcohol as a public health priority. In India, alcohol policy is a subject of the state. Over time there are fluctuations in its prohibition at the policy level in different states. The major reason for this is that states generate nearly 15% to 20% of the revenue from alcohol taxation, contributing a significant amount to the state treasury. Also, its ban leads to an increase in illicit liquor and substance abuse. ( 2) What more can be done In the long run, the economic burden of consequences of alcohol consumption far outweighs the benefit of revenue generation. ( 2) At the policy level Research shows that higher alcohol prices reduce alcohol misuse and related harms (e.g., alcohol-related road traffic accidents). All forms of alcohol advertisements, including surrogate ones, should be prohibited. At community level Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) is a validated 10-item screening tool that can be used to identify the risk of alcohol consumers from low to harmful/hazardous to alcohol dependence. Its use in a primary care setting, to discern those requiring brief interventions from those requiring referral for specialist treatment can be a core step. Brief interventions can be performed by a general practitioner. They involve one-to-one counselling which can help at-risk drinkers and those with mild alcohol-related problems. Those with higher scores (more than 8) might require pharmacotherapy or referral. Despite all this, people would still drink To effectively prevent substance misuse, it is important to understand the nature of the problem. The likelihood of substance abuse, most of the time, begins in adolescence and then increases with age, continuing throughout the lifespan. ( 3) Mechanisms of both positive and negative reinforcement play important roles in maintaining individual drinking behaviour. In any consumption practice culture plays an important role. Alcohol has become an inevitable component of socialisation. ( 3) Research shows that anti-choice, resistant alcohol behaviour and moral structure affect decision-making for not choosing to consume alcohol despite societal pressures. Hence, awareness about the consequences of alcohol consumption at an early life for example school level, peer education among adolescents can be an important prevention strategy, to develop the above qualities. ( 3) Alternative social/recreational activities can help change the culture of social drinking. ( 5) Policies exist, but their effective implementation is the need of the hour. References Burton R, Sheron N. No level of alcohol consumption improves health. The Lancet. 2018 Sep 22;392(10152):987-8. Eashwar VMA, Umadevi R, Gopalakrishnan S. Alcohol consumption in India- An epidemiological review. J Family Med Prim Care. 2020 Jan 28;9(1):49-55. Abuse S, US MH, Office of the Surgeon General (US. PREVENTION PROGRAMS AND POLICIES. Infacing addiction in America: the surgeon General's report on alcohol, drugs, and health [Internet] 2016 Nov. US Department of Health and Human Services. Fry ML. Discourses of consumer's alcohol resistant identities. Journal of Nonprofit & Public Sector Marketing. 2011 Oct 1;23(4):348-66. Santini ZI, Nielsen L, Hinrichsen C, Tolstrup JS, Vinther JL, Koyanagi A, Donovan RJ, Koushede V. The association between Act-Belong-Commit indicators and problem drinking among older Irish adults: Findings from a prospective analysis of the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA). Drug and Alcohol Dependence. 2017 Nov 1;180:323-31. comments debug Comments Rated 0 out of 5 stars. No ratings yet Rate the Article* Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Join the team Public Health Chronicle! APPLY NOW

Expansion of the Malaria Vaccine Implementation Programme in Africa Content Editor: Dr. Nikhil Kumar Khatri July 28, 2023 at 12:30:00 PM Global health, Primary prevention, Communicable diseases, Vector borne disease In Africa, malaria is still fatal, killing approximately 500,000 children under the age of five. In 2021, 96% of malaria deaths and 95% of cases worldwide were from Africa . It has been demonstrated that giving children the malaria vaccination is effective. Twelve nations in various regions of Africa will get a total of 18 million doses of the first-ever malaria vaccine over the course of the following two years. Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi have been receiving the malaria vaccine since 2019 thanks to the Malaria Vaccine Implementation Programme (MVIP), which is coordinated by WHO and supported by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, as well as UNAID. From this year, the vaccine will be added to standard immunization programs in nine additional African nations. 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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35-Headlines of the day (All) Public Health News Snippets 01-09th September, 2023 2 million excess of deaths following the lift of the Zero COVID Policy The Zero COVID policy was implemented by China, wherein mass testing and strict quarantine measures were used to prevent the spread of outbreaks. However, since the end of 2022, the policy has been lifted. In the two months since the lifting of the policy, an estimated 1.87 million excess deaths have been reported. This study was conducted based on obituary notices for three major Chinese universities from December 2022 to January 2023. The authors created a model that extrapolated the findings to the rest of the country. The number of deaths in Beijing universities increased significantly when compared to expected deaths, increasing by 403% (95% CI, 351% to 461%) and 56% (95% CI, 41% to 73%) in December 2022 and January 2023, respectively. Content Editor: Dr. M Swathi Shenoy Centre For Infectious Disease Research and Policy Source : Published on : Monday, September 11, 2023 COVID-19, Global Health Poliovirus still remains a public health emergency of international concern The 36th meeting of the International Health Regulations Emergency Committee on the international spread of poliovirus was recently held. The meeting was held in the context of eradicating wild poliovirus (WPC) and putting an end to cVDPV2 outbreaks by the end of 2023. Data on WPV1 and cVDPV was reviewed for the same. Since the last meeting: One new case of WPV1 was identified in Pakistan Five new cases of WPV1 were identified in Afghanistan. Two genetic clusters of WPV1 were identified. There has been a decline in the cVDPV, with 72% identified from 4 regions- eastern DR Congo, northern Nigeria, northern Yemen, and Somalia. However, the risk of poliovirus spreading internationally remains a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). Content Editor: Dr. M Swathi Shenoy WHO News Section Source : Published on : Friday, September 8, 2023 Global Health, Polio, Public Health America's silent mental health crisis The CDC recently released a report on provisional estimates of suicide in the United States for the year 2022. The findings of the report are as follows: In 2022, an estimated 49,449 deaths were by suicide, an increase of 2.6% from 2021. Previously, in 2019 and 2020, the rates had decreased. However, since 2021, the rates of suicide have increased in the United States. However, in two ethnic groups, namely, American Indian and Alaska Native, the rates have decreased since the previous years. The CDC’s Comprehensive Suicide Prevention Program (CSP) is designed to implement and evaluate a comprehensive public health approach to suicide prevention, focusing on those disproportionately affected. The National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline suggest five steps to help safeguard people from the risk of suicide and support them when in crisis: Ask for help Help keep them safe by reducing their access to lethal objects. Be there and support them. Help them connect to professionals who can help them Follow up Content Editor: Dr. M Swathi Shenoy Centre for Disease Control Source : Published on : Friday, September 8, 2023 Mental Health, Non communicable diseases Can the MIND (Mediterranean-DASH intervention for neurodegenerative delay) diet safeguard your mind? An RCT that challenges previous assumptions about the Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND diet) was recently published in The New England Journal of Medicine. Due to the abundance of leafy greens and other vegetables that are high in antioxidants and nutrients that support brain function, the Mediterranean diet and the DASH diet were formerly believed to be combating cognitive decline. The study participants included were: Older persons without cognitive impairment Older persons with a family history of dementia A body mass index greater than 25 Older persons consuming an unhealthy diet The intervention group received a MIND diet. Both groups received counseling on mild calorie restrictions. The MRI scans revealed: A bigger amount of both grey matter and white matter As well as fewer white matter hyperintensities (tiny lesions) in both groups There was no significant difference between the two. The change in the diet of the control arm without any intervention could have led to the findings. Thus, the study results need to be interpreted with caution. Content Editor: Dr. Subhana Siyad The Indian Express Source : Published on : Friday, September 8, 2023 MIND Diet, Cognitive impairment Need for humanitarian aid in Africa United Nations agencies warn that in the absence of humanitarian aid: Almost a million under-five children could end up with severe malnutrition 200,000 will be at risk of starving to death by the end of this year. The complex interplay of negative forces has led to severe food insecurity, which may progress to a famine in the Menaka region of Mali. These factors include: Continued conflicts, Violence Climate shocks Lack of access to humanitarian aid The UNICEF authorities have highlighted the need for urgent aid in this landlocked crisis-ridden region to: Alleviate hunger Provide medical aid Ensure drugs and vaccine supply as required. Content Editor: Himabindu Reddy United Nations News Section Source : Published on : Friday, September 8, 2023 Global health, Child health, Food insecurity, UN United Nation rushes to the rescue as South Africa battles blazing inferno Hailed as the worst fire in the history of the country , the blaze in Johannesburg claimed the lives of 74 adults and 12 young children. The blaze originated in an impoverished area under the control of criminal gangs and brought down a five-story building inhabited by homeless people. Cyril Ramaposa, president of the country, visited the place to convey his condolences and ensure support to the affected. The United Nations has also pledged support to the affected families and assured them that they will collaborate with the local government to prevent such disasters in the future. Content Editor: Himabindu Reddy United Nations News Section Source : Published on : Friday, September 8, 2023 Global health, Disaster relief, Public health, UN Vibrio infection takes a new route! your open wound could be the gateway Apart from the well-known vibrio infections caused by the consumption of raw seafood, the V ibrio vulnificus species of Vibrio bacteria can lead to infections by contact of an open wound with raw seafood. Vibrio vulnificus results in fever, discharge, discoloration, pain, and swelling which can also lead to necrotizing fasciitis, with some cases even needing limb amputation. 20% of the cases can also lead to death within a few days of infection. Immunocompromised individuals and those with liver diseases are more prone to severe infections. This deadly infection can be prevented by avoiding seas while having an open wound and post-exposure washing the exposed wound with soap and water Content Editor: Himabindu Reddy CDC Source : Published on : Wednesday, September 6, 2023 Communicable diseases, Public health, Water and sanitation, Infection prevention Revolutionizing diabetes care: smart insulin, your personal pancreas Insulin administration techniques have advanced significantly over the years, moving from glass syringes with long needles to disposable syringes with finer needles to prefilled insulin pens. Dr. Arnold Kadish created the first artificial pancreas to constantly deliver insulin in the 1960s. Following these, the Biostator and Insulin Pump were created in the 1970s and 1990s, respectively. The battery-powered, modern insulin pump administers insulin through a tiny teflon or steel cannula placed just under the skin either at predetermined rates or at the press of a button, cutting down on the number of pricks from several times per day to just once every 2-3 days. Tubeless insulin pumps can change the insulin doses based on glucose information from a continuous glucose monitor. Better insulin modifications for various times of day and night, exercise, illness, menstruation, exams, and other everyday scenarios are a further benefit, which helps to decrease bouts of hypoglycemia and improve HbA1c status. However, high cost (2-5 lakhs), stigma among patients regarding wearing a device that constantly reminds them of their condition, problems with cannulas in thin patients or those who sweat a lot, and skin reactions from adhesive tapes, deter patients from switching to insulin pumps. Content Editor: Dr. Subhana Siyad The Indian Express Source : Published on : Wednesday, September 6, 2023 Diabetes, Insulin, NCD Prejudicial laws blocking HIV progress The IAS-Lancet Commission on Health and Human Rights cautions that human rights violations jeopardize the global HIV response. Discriminatory laws and campaigns targeting at-risk communities, like MSM, pose a threat to HIV efforts. Uganda's anti-gay law , including punishment of death for "aggravated homosexuality," hinders LGBTQ+ avail to vital HIV services. Recent research in sub-Saharan Africa links higher MSM HIV prevalence to the criminalization of same-sex conduct, substantiating the concern. UNAIDS data confirms escalated HIV rates among marginalized groups - MSM, sex workers, and drug users. Commission co-chair Adeeba Kamarulzaman suggests diplomatic efforts from major HIV funders to counter laws. Co-chair Chris Beyrer urges collaboration between the HIV community and LGBTQ+ activists to tackle persistent challenges. Content Editor: Dr. Sumana Mukhopadhyay DEVEX Source : Published on : Wednesday, September 6, 2023 HIV, Human Rights Launch of the WHO Online Repository of Evidence-Informed Decision-Making (EIDM) Tools. The WHO Online Repository of Evidence-informed Decision Making (EIDM) is a platform developed by the Evidence-informed policy network. It highlights tools utilized by WHO to facilitate knowledge translation and partner organizations involved in planning, managing, monitoring, and evaluating the process of evidence use and implementation. However, it adds to the existing WHO Evidence, policy, and impact framework. The repository is continuously updated and enables users to access EIDM methods and tools corresponding to the policy /action cycle. Transforming knowledge into action and thereby achieving the Triple Billion targets is the goal of the WHO Content Editor: Dr Urmimala Maiti WHO News section Source : Published on : Wednesday, September 6, 2023 laws and regulations Fire and air: CDC sounds the alarm on rising asthma emergencies after wildfires New York endured poor air quality in the early weeks of June due to smoke from Eastern Canadian wildfires making the air quality index unhealthy across the state. Daily mean PM 2.5 values were calculated and compared with the baseline value. The asthma-associated emergency department visits were recorded from the Electronic Syndromic surveillance system. They concluded that increased concentration of PM led to a three-fold increase in asthma-associated ED visits among older children and young adults. This study alerts physicians and public health experts towards low-risk communication and enhanced focus on high-risk individuals, devising effective wildfire smoke response plans. 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Heat action plans: The necessity to update them Content Editor: Dr. Shubham July 11, 2024 at 2:00:00 PM Climate Change, Heat waves, Disaster management Heat Action Plans (HAPs) from nine cities (such as Delhi, Ahmedabad) and five districts (like Ferozepur, Vellore) were analysed. The analysis discovered that current heat response plans require more financial and legal support and do not clearly evaluate the effects of heat on the local people. More targeted plans are needed to address local problems, such as mapping people that are at risk. According to iForest's analysis (International Forum for Environment, Sustainability, and Technology), the report recommends: Updating the definitions of heat waves, Reporting them as disasters under the Disaster Management Act, Taking high nighttime temperatures and relative humidity into consideration. India is predicted to experience more heat waves, which highlights the significance of comprehensive HAPs in preserving lives and livelihoods. Previous Next

23-Headlines of the day (All) Public Health News Snippets 1st - 10th June, 2023 Towards Vaccine Equity - "Global Vaccine Research Collaborative" The Dept. of Pharmaceuticals , GoI, PATH (Program for Appropriate Technology in Health), a global non-profit organization working towards health equity, CEPI (Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations), a partnership among various organizations across the world working towards biological countermeasures and vaccine development to fight against future epidemics and pandemic threats, have come together with an agreement, the "Global Vaccine Research Collaborative." A pandemic like COVID-19 has helped identify the need for global collaboration in vaccine research and development to close the gaps in pandemic preparedness. The Union Minister for MOHFW placed the consensus at the beginning 3rd G20 Health Working Group meeting on 3rd June 2023. Content Editor: Dr. Urmimala Maiti Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : Friday, June 9, 2023 Global health, Pandemic preparedeness, Vaccine development 14 more harmful fixed drug combinations banned by the Government of India After determining they lacked therapeutic value , The Union government banned fourteen fixed-dose combinations (FDC) medications. The prohibition was put in place in response to the recommendations of an expert group assembled to look into the effectiveness of various drug combinations. According to the notification, an expert committee concluded that "these FDCs have no therapeutic justification and may pose risks to humans." The notification further stated that "in the larger public interest, it is necessary to prohibit the manufacture, sale, or distribution" of certain FDCs. The Union Health Ministry had banned the sale of 344 such fixed-dose combinations in 2016 , however, the manufacturers of 15 drugs appealed the judgment in the Delhi High Court and repealed their ban in 2017 . Content Editor: Anubhav Mondal The Hindu Source : Published on : Friday, June 9, 2023 Drug Control, Fixed drug combinations, Health policy, Drug Ban Latest archive from WHO offers a collection of of all data related to drug-dependence at a single source WHO ’s ECDD has developed a repository comprising over 450 substances which contains information and reports on new psychoactive substances and medicines, for medical and scientific use. Expert Committee on Drug Dependence (ECDD) is constituted of an independent group of experts in the field of psychoactive drugs and medicine . It is an important resource for policymakers and health professionals to increase their awareness of abuse, harm, and dependence on psychoactive substances . This could also assist in improving the detection of substances and clinical treatment of overdose, and other related negative health consequences of drug use . Link to the repository - https://ecddrepository.org/ Content Editor: Dr. Ismail Rifai WHO News Source : Published on : Friday, June 9, 2023 Health information; Drugs and psychoactive substances; WHO; Drug dependence Swasth Nagrik-Swasth Rashtra: Innovative steps for Food safety in India The Union Minister of the MOHFW, Dr. Mansukh Mandavia inaugurated the "National Training Centre for Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI )" on 1st June, in Ghaziabad , Uttar Pradesh. It will function as a resource and training center for maintaining food quality standards and keeping food adulteration in India under check. The FSSAI aims to achieve the global benchmark of food safety standards towards the goal of a healthy India and healthy Indians. The event also saw the launch of a "Food Safety and Certification (FoSTaC)" e-learning app intended for street vendors constituting training modules on food safety handling, storage, and hygiene practices. Content Editor: Dr. Urmimala Maiti Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : Tuesday, June 6, 2023 Food Safety and Standards Amendment of the COTPA rules on World No Tobacco Day Keeping in mind the World No Tobacco Day 2023 theme " We need food, not tobacco " on 31st May 2023, the central government amended the "Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (COTPA) (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Rules 2004. The amendments made are as follows: Depiction of anti-tobacco health warnings at the beginning and end of any online curated content displaying tobacco use. Display of a warning disclaimer on tobacco products written as a distinct message in white over black background. The Union Minister launched the online dashboard for reporting violations of COTPA at the National No Tobacco Control Programme portal. Content Editor: Dr. Urmimala Maiti Press Information bureau Source : Published on : Wednesday, June 7, 2023 Public health laws and regulations, Tobacco, Substance abuse, COTPA UN agencies warns worsening of acute food insecurity in 18 'hotspots' across 22 countries An FAO report on food insecurity listed the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Pakistan, and Syria as hotspots with very high concern . Countries on the highest alert are Sudan, Burkina Faso, Haiti, Mali, Afghanistan, Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, and Yemen. Some major drivers of worsening food insecurity include: Conflict in Sudan Economic shocks and stressors post COVID-19 and Ukraine war . : Stepping up support: In Sudan, WFP (World Food Programme) staff have begun providing food assistance since after the violence started six weeks ago. Since the beginning of operations, it has scaled up to provide emergency food and nutrition support to 13 of Sudan's 18 states and is expanding to reach out to 5.9 million people nationwide. Content Editor: Dr. Jasmin Nilima Panda International Health News Source : Published on : Wednesday, June 7, 2023 Global Health, Food Insecurity, FAO, Sudan War Digital India towards Digital Census - An Update The 16th decennial census got postponed in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Plan was to conduct the Census in 2 phases: Phase 1: House listing and housing census(with 31 questions -notified) Phase 2:Population enumeration( with 28 questions -yet to be notified) A pre-test exercise was conducted at 76 districts in 36 States and Union Territories, covering a population of more than 26 lakhs. Among the improvisations suggested are: Rationalization of Mother Tongues Digitalization of the Census with coded options for questions & Mobile apps for data collection , Start of Census Management and Monitoring System(CMMS) portal online, The spectrum of types and causes of disabilities s hall be extended to acid attack, intellectual disability, chronic neurological disease, and blood disorder. New questions about living standards like access to drinking water, House ownership. A code directory with possible responses for ease of enumeration. Content Editor: Dr.Sivanthiga.G The Hindu Source : Published on : Wednesday, June 7, 2023 Census India, New initiatives, online portal, Digital India Deadly Trade: Cough Syrup and Counterfeit Drugs Fuel Trafficking Crisis in Africa Fake medicines , including cough syrup and fake antimalarials, cause nearly half a million deaths in sub-Saharan Africa annually. UN and Sahelian nations are collaborating to halt the flow of fake medicines at borders and hold culprits accountable. Limited healthcare access leads to reliance on illegal market medicines & Corruption facilitates the flourishing of the illegal medicine trade. Traffickers employ sophisticated methods, including collaboration with pharmacists and online platforms. Strengthening law enforcement, judiciary, and regulation is vital to protect the legal supply chain whereas Cooperation, capacity-building, and public awareness are essential in combating the trade and ensuring people's safety. Content Editor: Dr. Deepika Bishnoi International Health News Source : Published on : Monday, June 5, 2023 Global Health, Laws and Regulations, Illicit drug Trafficking, African region TB Alliance Breaks New Ground in Pursuit of Effective Treatment for Nontuberculosis Mycobacteria Infections The TB Alliance has secured funding from the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to investigate potential drugs for treating nontuberculosis mycobacteria (NTM) infections . The funding will facilitate preclinical testing of a novel oxazolidinone inhibitor , previously identified by researchers from TB Alliance and Johns Hopkins University in 2020, as a potential treatment for two types of NTM—Mycobacterium abscess and Mycobacterium avium complex— known to cause the majority of NTM lung infections in individuals with cystic fibrosis. The research aims to compare the efficacy of the synthetic antibiotic against NTM infections with that of linezolid, the current treatment for NTM abscess infections. Nader Fotouhi, Ph.D., Senior Vice President and Chief Scientific Officer at TB Alliance, emphasized the organization's dedication to discovering innovative treatments for tuberculosis and the discovery of multiple potential compounds for NTM treatment. The identification of this new compound opens up possibilities for developing improved treatments for NTM infections, offering potential benefits to individuals with cystic fibrosis. Content Editor: Dr. Deepika Bishnoi International Health News Source : Published on : Monday, June 5, 2023 Public Health, Global Health, Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacteria infections, Drug trial, Cystic Fibrosis India Tops Global Preterm Births at 3.2 Million claims WHO Report on Preterm Birth Prevention. Findings of the WHO Landmark Report on Preterm birth prevention: Preterm birth rates remained largely unchanged from 2010 to 2020 . Preterm birth is the leading cause of death among children under five . Minimal progress with an average annual reduction of preterm birth rates of about 0.5% . Maternal Covid-19 infection potentially increases the risk of preterm birth . Higher rates of preterm births among infected mothers in both low and high-income countries . Long-term Effects and Disabilities: Preterm birth is the fourth leading cause of loss of human capital worldwide. Survivors may face respiratory, cardiac, and neurodevelopmental challenges . Disabilities can range from mild to severe, including conditions like diplegia. Even babies born a few weeks preterm can experience learning and behavioral disorders . United Nations aims to reduce neonatal and under-five mortality rates. Improvement in quality newborn and young child care is crucial to achieving the targets. Challenges in meeting the targets for under-five and neonatal mortality identified by the WHO . Content Editor: Dr. Deepika Bishnoi The Hindu Source : Published on : Monday, June 5, 2023 Global Health, Public Health, Neonatal Mortality, Preterm, Under 5 deaths Time to refocus our attention on "hidden hunger". Under the aegis of the "United Nations Decade of Action on Nutrition (2016-2025) report", the 76th World Health Assembly members joined hands in a resolution to prevent micronutrient deficiencies by urging member states to increase the accessibility of quality fortified staple foods through large-scale food fortification. The global micronutrient crisis has led to a high prevalence of preventable blindness, birth defects like neural tube defects, and impaired brain development. Crucial micronutrients, folate, and iodine deficiency cannot be met by a healthy , nutritious diet alone , particularly in pregnant women. Food Fortification programs are a cost-effective intervention for decreasing micronutrient deficiency and have been successful in many countries for around 30 years . Content Editor: Dr. Urmimala Maiti WHO News Section Source : Published on : Monday, June 5, 2023 Micronutrients deficiency, Food fortification, Preventable diseases, Nutritional interventions ICRC-2023 highlight: India's National Climate change agenda for 2030 released International Climate Research Conclave (ICRC-2023 ) was a two-day event held at DST’s Centre of Excellence in Climate Studies at IIT Bombay in May 2023. The ICRC-2023 witnessed the participation of over 200 climate scientists, students, experts, and policymakers from different parts of India and around the world. The conclave focused on India's recent progress in climate research and released the report “India’s Climate Research Agenda: 2030 & Beyond’ . Long-term research agendas in priority areas of climate research were deliberated, along with plans for creating a Climate Consortium involving various departments and ministries of the Government of India to facilitate climate research . Content Editor: Dr. Ismail Rifai Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : Monday, June 5, 2023 Climate change, Climate Research, Policy, SDG 2030 Daily News Snippets Monthly Archives 18-24th June, 2023 (11 ) Read More 28-31st May, 2023 (3) Read More 8-14th May, 2023 (15) Read More April 17 - 23, 2023 (24) Read More 11-17th June, 2023 (7 ) Read More 22-28th May, 2023 (7) Read More 1-7th May, 2023 (11 ) Read More April 10 - 16, 2023 (16) Read More 1-10th June, 2023 (12 ) Read More 15-21st May, 2023 (9) Read More April 24 - 30, 2023 (18) Read More April 3 - 8, 2023 (9) Read More March 27 - 31, 2023 (15) Read More March 6 - 12, 2023 (24) Read More February 23 - 25, 2023 (3) Read More February 15 - 16, 2023 (8) Read More March 20 - 25, 2023 (18) Read More March 1 - 5, 2023 (8) Read More February 20 - 22, 2023 (2) Read More February 07 - 14, 2023 (5) Read More March 13 - 18, 2023 (8) Read More February 26 - 28, 2023 (15) Read More February 17 - 19, 2023 (3) Read More February 01 - 06, 2023 (5) Read More Subscribe to get Latest Public Health Updates SUBSCRIBE

Effect of limited interventions on blood pressure- Findings from a Randomised controlled trial Content Editor: Dr. Ismail Rifai July 24, 2023 at 2:35:39 PM Non-communicable disease, lifestyle intervention, RCT, Primary prevention, Hypertension A non-blind cluster RCT as part of the Community-Based Intervention for Control of Hypertension in Nepal (COBIN) trial was conducted in Nepal to assess the impact of lifestyle modification on blood pressure. The study involved 1638 adults aged 25–65, divided into three cohorts based on blood pressure: normotensive, pre-hypertensive, and hypertensive. Female community health volunteers were trained to provide counseling four times during a 12-month intervention period for lifestyle modification. At the end of the intervention, SBP was significantly lower in the intervention group compared to the usual care group. However, after 60 months, the mean SBP increased by 10.4 mm Hg (95% CI 9•1–11•6) in the intervention group and 6.0 mm Hg (4•6–7•5) in the usual care group. This highlights the need for regular and timely counseling to sustain the beneficial effects of behavior change interventions. A Nepal Study revealed that limited-duration lifestyle interventions are unsustainable for blood pressure control. Previous Next

Twenty-sixth session by the Commission on Science and Technology for Development Content Editor: Dr. Anubhav Mondal March 29, 2023 at 4:11:15 PM Science and Technology, sanitation Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD) is a subsidiary body of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and the United Nations focal point for science, technology, and innovation (STI) for development. The themes pertaining to the 26th session are 1. Technology and innovation for more competitive, productive, and environmentally friendly production 2. Using science, technology, and creativity to provide everyone with access to clean water and sanitary facilities. The Commission will also receive presentations on ongoing policy assessments of science, technology, and innovation. It will also assess the results of the Global Summit on the Information Society's implementation and follow-up at the regional and global levels. It serves as a venue for strategic planning, the exchange of best practises and lessons learned, the provision of foresight about major trends in STI in significant economic, environmental, and social areas, and the spotlighting of cutting-edge and disruptive technologies. 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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