Govt arms people with meds to make state filariasis free by 27
2
Ranchi: State health, food supplies, and disaster management minister Irfan Ansari launched the mass drug administration (MDA) campaign against filariasis from Jamtara on Sunday.
The drive aims to administer DEC, albendazole, and ivermectin to 1.27 crore people out of an identified 1.42 crore population in 80 targeted blocks across nine districts — Chatra, Godda, West Singhbhum, Seraikela, Hazaribag, Jamtara, Palamu, Latehar, and Dumka.
Consuming the filariasis-preventive medicine on stage, Ansari said, "I have taken the medicine, you should too. We must make Jharkhand filariasis-free by 2027."
The campaign aims to ensure that no eligible individual misses the dose, and fulfil the vision of a healthy and capable state. Exemptions apply for children under two years of age, pregnant women, and those with severe illnesses. Trained health workers would administer age-appropriate doses either at booths or through door-to-door visits, he added.
Additional director and state programme officer for vector-borne diseases, Dr Birendra Kumar Singh, said, "The success of the MDA drive depends on coordinated efforts with departments including education, ICDS, Panchayati Raj, urban development, drinking water and sanitation, livelihood, and PHED."
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
This Japanese AI invention allows you to speak 68 languages instantly. The idea? Genius.
Enence 2.0
Undo
Stressing that filariasis is preventable with a single annual dose, the minsiter cited the socio-economic and emotional toll of the disease.
Special initiatives undertaken by the state include the distribution of specialised footwear to affected individuals, free hydrocele surgeries, and streamlined disability certification.
The minister appealed to villagers, panchayat members, teachers, anganwadi workers, health staff, and others to promote the campaign into a mass movement.
Stay updated with the latest local news from your
city
on
Times of India
(TOI). Check upcoming
bank holidays
,
public holidays
, and current
gold rates
and
silver prices
in your area.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
9 minutes ago
- Time of India
7 best green teas to support weight management and overall health
Green tea is widely recognised as one of the healthiest beverages globally, rich in antioxidants, nutrients, and offering numerous health benefits. Valued for centuries, it supports weight management, boosts metabolism, and promotes overall well-being. Green tea contains powerful compounds like catechins and polyphenols that help protect against chronic diseases and improve brain function. Various types of green tea, such as matcha, sencha, and hojicha, each provide unique flavours and health advantages. Incorporating green tea into your daily routine can enhance energy levels, support heart health, and aid digestion, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. From matcha to sencha: Green teas for better health Green tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Unlike black tea, green tea undergoes minimal oxidation during processing, allowing it to retain high levels of antioxidants called polyphenols and catechins. These compounds contribute to boosting metabolism, aiding weight loss, and providing a moderate energy boost without the jittery effects of coffee. 1. Matcha green tea Matcha is a powdered green tea known for its high antioxidant content, especially EGCG (Epigallocatechin gallate). Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like When Knee Pain Hits, Start Eating These Foods, and Feel Your Pain Go Away (It's Genius) Click Here Undo by Taboola by Taboola Because you consume the whole leaf in powdered form, matcha offers a more concentrated dose of nutrients compared to other green teas. Health benefits: Reduces stress, enhances memory and focus, and boosts metabolism. How to make: Whisk matcha powder with hot water, starting with a paste to avoid lumps. 2. Sencha green tea Sencha is Japan's most popular green tea, known for its fresh, grassy flavor. It contains fluoride, which supports dental health. Health benefits: May help prevent cavities, lower cancer risk, and improve heart health. How to make: Brew with water around 70-80°C for 1-2 minutes. 3. Gyokuro green tea Gyokuro is a premium Japanese tea cultivated under shade, resulting in higher levels of theanine and caffeine, which provide a creamy, umami-rich taste. Health benefits: Provides sustained energy and relaxation, improves mental clarity. How to make: Brew with cooler water (~50-60°C) for 2 minutes to preserve delicate flavors. 4. Hojicha green tea Hojicha is unique because it is made from roasted green tea leaves, giving it a toasty flavor and significantly lower caffeine content. Health benefits: Rich in antioxidants that support anti-aging and protect against sun damage; may reduce cholesterol and blood pressure. How to make: Brew with boiling water for 30 seconds to 1 minute. 5. Longjing (Dragon well) green tea Longjing is a famous Chinese green tea known for its flat, emerald-green leaves and nutty, sweet flavour. Health Benefits: Packed with catechins that protect cells from oxidative damage, enhance brain function, and promote heart health. How to make: Brew with water at 75-80°C for 2-3 minutes. 6. Jasmine green tea Jasmine green tea combines green tea with jasmine blossoms, infusing a delicate floral aroma. Health benefits: High in antioxidants that combat inflammation, support heart health, and boost metabolism for weight loss. How to make: Brew with water at 75-80°C for 2-3 minutes. 7. Moroccan mint tea A refreshing blend of green tea, fresh mint leaves, and sugar, Moroccan mint tea is a popular North African beverage. Health benefits: The menthol in mint aids digestion, reduces bloating, and soothes the stomach, while green tea supports immune function and mental focus. How to make: Brew green tea with fresh mint leaves; add sugar to taste. Why include green tea in your diet Green tea supports weight loss by boosting metabolism and fat oxidation. It also offers cardiovascular benefits by regulating cholesterol and blood pressure. Additionally, its antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, which are linked to chronic diseases. How to make the perfect cup of green tea Use fresh, filtered water heated to the right temperature (usually between 70°C and 80°C) to avoid bitterness. Steep for 1-3 minutes depending on the variety. Avoid over-brewing to keep the flavor smooth and enjoyable. For matcha, whisk the powder into hot water to achieve a frothy texture. Potential side effects and dosage While green tea is safe for most people, consuming excessive amounts may cause: Caffeine-related issues such as insomnia or jitteriness Upset stomach or acid reflux in sensitive individuals Recommended dosage: About 3-4 cups per day for general health benefits, but always listen to your body and consult a healthcare professional if unsure. Also read | How olive oil helps manage cholesterol naturally: A heart-healthy choice for everyday life
Indian Express
32 minutes ago
- Indian Express
US scientists explore no-melt ice cream using fruit compounds
Cameron Wicks, a food scientist at General Mills, is exploring how antioxidant compounds could help ice cream stay solid in the heat. Her research, which began while she was a student at the University of Wisconsin, focuses on tannic acid, a type of polyphenol, and its potential to slow melting by changing the dessert's structure. In lab tests, Wicks mixed cream with varying concentrations of tannic acid and found that higher levels thickened the cream into a gel-like texture that could hold its shape even when inverted. Under a microscope, the mixtures showed more distinct fat globules, suggesting that tannic acid interacted with proteins to form a network that kept the fats from merging and running when warmed. Wicks' work was inspired by a viral innovation from Japan. Years ago, Kanazawa Ice developed ice cream, and even popsicles, that resisted melting under direct heat. According to Fox10, the breakthrough came accidentally when a pastry chef was experimenting with a new confection and used a polyphenol liquid extracted from strawberries. The result was unusually stable ice cream, described as tasting like vanilla with a hint of strawberry. Traditional stabilisers such as carrageenan and guar gum already slow melting, but once ice cream warms and refreezes, it develops coarse, unpleasant crystals, BBC reports. The Japanese polyphenol-based method seemed to bypass this problem, keeping the dessert's structure intact in hot weather. Social media videos showed it surviving heat tests, though the texture eventually shifted toward a rubbery or pudding-like consistency. Both BBC and Fox10 note that while polyphenols can help ice cream hold its shape, they don't keep it cold. (With inputs from BBC, Fox10)
Time of India
34 minutes ago
- Time of India
Childhood obesity linked to colon cancer risk: Why parents should take early weight gain seriously
Childhood obesity is a growing health concern worldwide, affecting millions of children every year. It occurs when a child's weight is higher than what is healthy for their age and height. Excess weight in early life not only increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease but can also raise the chances of developing colorectal cancer in adulthood. Research shows that obesity in childhood can have long-term effects on the body, including inflammation and changes in gut health. Parents play a vital role in prevention through healthy eating, active lifestyles, and reducing unhealthy food and screen time habits. What childhood obesity really means Childhood obesity is not just about a child looking 'chubby'; it's a medical condition where their weight is much higher than what is healthy for their age, height, and sex. Unlike adults, where BMI cut-offs are the same for everyone, children's BMI is compared against growth charts that take age and sex into account. Severe childhood obesity is generally divided into two main categories, based on how a child's weight compares with others of the same age and sex: Class 2 obesity: This is when a child's BMI is between 120% and 140% of the 95th percentile, or between 35 and 40 kg/m². Simply put, their weight is much higher than what is healthy for their height and age. Class 3 obesity: This is the most serious level, where BMI is more than 140% of the 95th percentile or over 40 kg/m². At this stage, the risk of serious health issues in both childhood and adulthood is significantly higher. Excess weight in childhood affects almost every organ, from the heart and lungs to the liver and bones, and can set the stage for lifelong health problems if not addressed. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Knee Pain? Start Eating These Foods, and Feel Your Pain Go Away Click Here Undo Common reasons children become obese Childhood obesity often results from a mix of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Some of the most common include: Genetic predisposition If obesity runs in the family, children may inherit genes that make it easier to gain weight and harder to lose it. Genetics can influence metabolism, hunger levels, and how the body stores fat, accounting for 40–70% of a person's risk. Poor dietary habits Many children consume high-calorie foods that are low in nutrients, such as fast food, packaged snacks, and sugary drinks. Some of these foods also contain additives linked to cancer risk. In fact, California recently banned four additives commonly found in snack foods, brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, propylparaben, and Red Dye 3, because of their strong link to cancer. Sedentary lifestyle Screen time has replaced much of the outdoor play that was common in earlier generations. According to a study published in NIH, over 90% of children above age 2 play video games, and many spend 1.5–2 hours daily on them. Reduced physical activity not only increases weight gain but also impacts muscle, bone, and heart health. How obesity in childhood is linked to colon cancer later in life Colorectal cancer has traditionally been more common in people over 50, but it's increasingly being diagnosed in younger adults. A major US study involving over 4.7 million participants found that: Boys who were obese early in life had a 39% higher risk of developing CRC as adults, with stronger links to cancers of the distal colon and rectum. Girls had a 19% higher risk, with rectal cancer showing the strongest connection. Researchers believe this is due to long-term effects of obesity, such as chronic low-grade inflammation, higher insulin levels, and changes in gut bacteria, all of which may promote cancer growth over time. What parents can do to prevent obesity and future cancer risk The good news is that small changes made early can make a big difference in a child's health and future cancer risk. Here are practical steps parents can take: Encourage balanced meals: Fill plates with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit processed snacks and sugary drinks: Reserve sweets for occasional treats rather than daily consumption. Promote regular physical activity: Children should be active for at least 60 minutes a day through play, sports, or outdoor activities. Set screen-time boundaries: Limit recreational screen time and encourage active alternatives. Be a role mode: Children are more likely to eat well and be active if they see their parents doing the same. Why early awareness and action on childhood obesity can help prevent colon cancer in adulthood Many parents assume that 'baby fat' will disappear as children grow, but this is not always the case. Overweight children are more likely to become overweight adults, and the earlier excess weight appears, the longer the body is exposed to the harmful effects of obesity. By understanding the link between childhood obesity and colorectal cancer, parents can take steps now to reduce their children's long-term health risks. Schools, healthcare providers, and community programmes can also play a vital role by supporting healthy eating and active lifestyles. Childhood obesity isn't just a short-term concern; it can lead to serious health problems decades later, including colorectal cancer. Parents can help protect their children's future by promoting a healthy diet, encouraging regular activity, and making small but lasting lifestyle changes at home. The earlier these habits begin, the better the chances of preventing both obesity and related diseases later in life. Also Read: Eating non-veg daily is risky: Oxford study warns of heart, liver, and diabetes risks for people with these 6 conditions
