Health Fitness News

A 22-year-old bodybuilder suffered a stroke after reportedly using a high-caffeine pre-workout supplement daily. While causation cannot be established from one case, experts warn that high caffeine doses may raise heart rate and blood pressure, particularly when combined with intense exercise and other stimulants.

Ebola outbreak in DR Congo is taking different turns, with community deaths raising concern. WHO reported that 75% of confirmed deaths occurred in communities between August 31 and September 6. By September 6, the outbreak had recorded 6,686 confirmed cases and 3,226 confirmed deaths. WHO assessed the risk of further spread as "very high" within the DRC and "high" for neighbouring countries.

Long hours at a desk and poor posture can contribute to back pain, neck stiffness and other spine problems. Yoga may help improve spinal flexibility, strength and posture. Poses such as Tadasana, Trikonasana, Marjariasana, Bhujangasana, Setu Bandhasana and Shashankasana can help stretch and strengthen the back and spine when practised correctly.

Bael, also known as Bilva or Wood Apple, has long been valued in Ayurveda and traditional medicine. AYUSH Ministry's National Medicinal Plants Board highlights its medicinal uses. Its fruit, leaves and roots are traditionally used, particularly for digestive issues. Bael is also known for its anti-diarrhoeal, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties and holds cultural significance in India.

Artery plaque is more complex than cholesterol alone. It can involve fats, inflammatory cells, calcium, connective tissue and other substances that build up inside blood vessels. Understanding how plaque develops may help explain heart disease risk and why managing cholesterol, blood pressure, diabetes, smoking and lifestyle factors is important.

Experts say some teas may help ease headaches through hydration, relaxation or caffeine, while others could worsen symptoms in certain people. Herbal teas such as ginger or peppermint may offer relief, but individual triggers vary. They recommend paying attention to caffeine intake, hydration and personal sensitivities when choosing tea during a headache.

The Uttar Pradesh government has increased the retirement age of doctors in the Medical and Health Department from 65 to 70 years. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak said the move will allow patients to benefit from the experience of senior and specialist doctors. The government expects the decision to improve healthcare services and help meet rising patient needs.

World First Aid Day, observed on September 12, highlights the importance of knowing what to do during an emergency. First aid is temporary care given until professional help arrives. Check that the scene is safe before helping. For an unconscious person, assess Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability and Exposure. Call an ambulance and start CPR if they are unresponsive and not breathing.

A 33-year-old woman in Andhra Pradesh was found with 13 pens, five wooden spoons and a candle in her stomach. Doctors removed the objects through endoscopy and laparoscopy. A 25-cm pen had perforated her stomach, causing pneumomediastinum. Doctors said swallowing foreign objects can lead to serious complications and may be linked to mental health issues.

A 35-year-old carpenter from Uttar Pradesh underwent complex two-valve heart surgery at Sharda Hospital through a minimally invasive approach. Doctors replaced his mitral valve and repaired the tricuspid valve through a 6-cm incision. The surgery was performed free of cost under Ayushman Bharat. The patient, who had severe rheumatic heart disease, is recovering well.

A 63-year-old woman who had undergone uterine cancer treatment lost over 20 kg after radiation damaged her intestine, causing severe pain and vomiting. Doctors removed the damaged intestine after an eight-hour surgery. She can now eat solid food without pain and is recovering well, with ongoing nutritional monitoring to regain strength.

The 9th Rashtriya Poshan Maah will be launched in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi to promote better nutrition and healthy practices. The 2026 theme, Hamari Anganwadi Hamari Jimmedari, focuses on strengthening Anganwadi centres, dietary diversity, maternal nutrition, child development and community participation. The event will also mark 10 years of the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana.

Gujarat authorities seized codeine-based medicines worth ₹83 lakh from Balaji Pharma and cancelled the firm's licence over alleged illegal sales, reports stated. The action comes amid a crackdown on the unauthorised distribution of codeine-based medicines. Officials said enforcement measures are being strengthened to curb the illicit pharmaceutical trade and misuse of such medicines.

Sandra Bullock’s experience with stress-induced hair loss highlights telogen effluvium, a common temporary condition. Severe stress can disrupt the hair-growth cycle and trigger excessive shedding. Experts recommend balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, stress management and gentle hair care. Persistent or sudden hair loss should be evaluated by dermatologist to identify possible underlying causes.

Dementia is becoming an increasing health challenge in ageing India. Experts say early diagnosis can help families understand symptoms, explore treatment and plan care, but stress that diagnosis is only the beginning. They recommend long-term care that addresses cognitive, physical, emotional and social wellbeing while supporting caregivers and preserving patients’ dignity and quality of life.

Bangladesh is facing its deadliest measles outbreak in decades, with more than 1,000 children reportedly dead and nearly 187,500 infections recorded. Health officials acknowledge vaccination gaps, with millions of children missed by immunisation efforts. Malnutrition and a simultaneous dengue surge are further straining Bangladesh's already burdened healthcare system.

All India Food Processors' Association has moved the Supreme Court against FSSAI's plan to mandate front-of-pack red flags for packaged food with high fat, sugar or salt content. FSSAI should take "account of Indian dietary context and consumer-consumption patterns" as labels risk covering 80% of products with warnings, the group said. The labels need "further scientific examination", it added.

World Suicide Prevention Day, observed on September 10, highlights how asking a simple question such as "Are you okay?" can open conversations about mental health and suicide. Recognising warning signs, listening without judgment and encouraging professional help can support someone in crisis. Early intervention and compassionate support can help people feel heard and less alone.

A new Lancet study suggests mass dog vaccination could dramatically reduce rabies deaths in India. Research in Kerala found that vaccinating 70% of dogs may bring human rabies deaths close to zero within three years. The study also highlights timely post-exposure treatment, public awareness, and better access to lifesaving rabies care.