7 Animal Species In India That Are Extinct Now
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The Asiatic lion is only found in Gir Forest National Park in Gujarat and it is one of the species which is on the verge of extinction. Bengal Tiger
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The Bengal Tiger, a flagship species in India, is found in various protected areas but is critically endangered and on the brink of extinction due to various threats. Snow Leopard
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The Snow Leopard is found in the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas but is critically endangered. Nilgiri Tahr
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The Nilgiri Tahr, a mountain goat native to South India's Nilgiri Hills, is critically endangered.
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Great Indian Bustard is a large bird found in grasslands and semi-arid regions. Blackbuck
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Blackbuck is a large antelope found in various parts of India but critically endangered.
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One-horned Rhinoceros found in Assam and West Bengal, primarily in protected areas. (Image: Freepik)
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Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Hindustan Times
Orthopaedic oncologist surgeon stresses recognising early signs of bone cancer: What you need to know
A rare type of cancer that begins in the bones, bone cancer, or bone neoplasm, is known to be fatal, with a five-year relative survival rate of 68.2 percent. According to the American Cancer Society's estimates for primary cancer of the bones and joints in 2025, about 3,770 new cases will be diagnosed (2,150 in males and 1,620 in females) and about 2,190 deaths (1,240 in males and 950 in females). This includes cancers in both children and adults. Bone cancer is not always passed from one generation to another, but some are inherited disorders which can increase the risk. (Freepik) Also Read | Oncologist shares surprising causes of head and neck cancer in non-smokers: 'It's not just tobacco anymore' This makes understanding the genetic factors that contribute to its development crucial for early detection and treatment. According to Dr Haresh Manglani, orthopaedic onco-surgeon, HCG ICS Khubchandani Cancer Centre, Mumbai (Colaba), research has shown that certain genetic mutations and inherited syndromes can increase the risk of developing bone cancer. The genetic factor in bone cancer In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Manglani stated that by exploring the genetic link to bone cancer, we can better understand the underlying causes of the disease and identify the potential warning signs. 'Bone cancer is not always passed from one generation to another, but some are inherited disorders which can increase the risk. These genetic traits do not directly cause cancer, but might set the stage for abnormal bone cell changes,' the orthopaedic oncologist surgeon explained. Environmental factors—such as prior radiation therapy in childhood—can interact with underlying genetic vulnerabilities and increase the risk of bone cancer. (Shutterstock) He further adds, 'For instance, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, a rare condition caused by a mutation in the TP53 gene, significantly increases the risk of various cancers, osteosarcoma being one of them. Similarly, hereditary Retinoblastoma, a condition known for affecting the eyes of young children, is linked to a higher risk of bone tumours. Other genetic disorders, such as Rothmund-Thomson syndrome or Multiple Exostoses, may also predispose children or adolescents to bone cancers during growth spurts.' Therefore, early screening and an awareness of these symptoms can be helpful to catch them early: 1. When genes meet the environment According to Dr Manglani, genetic predisposition does not work in isolation. He explains, 'Environmental factors—such as prior radiation therapy in childhood—can interact with underlying genetic vulnerabilities and increase the risk. In such cases, the bones may carry the imprint of past exposure, subtly altering cellular structures, over time.' This is also the reason why children and teenagers undergoing treatment for other conditions are monitored closely, he stressed. The aim is to catch any abnormalities early—before they evolve into more aggressive manifestations. 2. Subtle signs, significant impact Second, most people expect serious illness to arrive with dramatic symptoms. But bone cancer doesn't always work that way. Dr Mangali points out: 'A persistent ache in the leg or arm, a pain that gets worse at night, or a limp that lingers longer than expected—these are the signs that often go unnoticed. In genetically predisposed individuals, these minor changes may indicate the need for investigation.' 'Swelling close to joints, a noticeable lump, or even fractures that don't match the injury can signal trouble. As the disease progresses, weight loss, tiredness, or mild fever can appear and often be dismissed. However, in families with a cancer history, such red flags deserve urgent attention,' he added. The role of genetics in early detection of bone cancer 'Diagnosing bone cancers, such as osteosarcoma or Ewing's sarcoma, early can make a big difference. Treatment often combines chemo and surgery, with many approaches allowing the limb to be saved. A timely diagnosis can shift the entire outlook, positively,' Dr Manglani highlighted. Identifying high-risk individuals: 'Genetic testing can reveal inherited mutations linked to an increased risk of bone cancer. This allows for closer monitoring and early screening of those at higher risk,' Dr Manglani said. Personalised treatment plans: 'By analysing the genetic profile of a tumour, clinicians can develop tailored treatment strategies. This precision approach often results in more effective and targeted therapies,' he stated. Facilitating early intervention: Genetic insights can enable the detection of bone cancer in its early stages, significantly improving the chances of successful treatment, he stressed. Listen to what the body—and your genes—are saying 'A child who starts avoiding sports, an adult who wakes up with unexplained leg pain, or a teenager with a recurring limp—these are all clues that deserve attention, particularly when there's a known genetic risk. Often, the first alert comes not from a test or scan, but from responding to the body's persuasive signals,' Dr Manglani said. Lastly, bone cancer may be rare, but its impact is profound. By recognising the early signs and understanding how genetics plays a role, families and doctors can act early. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
5 days ago
- Hindustan Times
Irregular sleep linked to ‘172 diseases' including diabetes, kidney failure and Parkinson's, finds largest-ever study
For years, sleep experts have cautioned against getting too much sleep, linking it to heart disease, depression, and even premature death. However, new findings from the largest study of its kind suggest the real issue may not be the amount of sleep but how inaccurately we report it. (Also read: Cardiologist explains how a simple blood test can predict heart attack risk years in advance: 'Before symptoms appear…' ) New study finds irregular sleep patterns tied to major health risks and chronic diseases. (Freepik) Why most people are wrong about how much they sleep Researchers equipped nearly 90,000 adults with fitness trackers to objectively measure sleep patterns and followed their health outcomes over seven years. The study published in the journal Health Data Science on June 3, 2025, found that many participants who claimed to sleep more than eight hours were actually getting six hours or less. These 'false long sleepers' were likely skewing previous studies that relied on self-reported sleep, inflating the perceived health risks of long sleep. The research reveals a major flaw in decades of sleep research, people often misjudge how much they sleep. When scientists looked specifically at people who both reported and objectively had long sleep durations, the associated health risks nearly vanished. Disrupted sleep rhythms linked to hundreds of diseases Led by Dr. Qing Chen from China's Third Military Medical University, the research used accelerometers from the UK Biobank to go beyond self-reporting. These wrist-worn trackers offered detailed insights not only into how long participants slept but also when they slept, how fragmented their sleep was, and how consistent their sleep patterns remained across days. Researchers found that optimal sleep could prevent over 20% of cases for 92 diseases. (Shutterstock) This granular data revealed that disrupted sleep rhythms, irregular schedules, poor consistency, and fragmented rest were linked to 172 diseases, including major chronic conditions. For example, individuals with highly disrupted sleep rhythms had three times the risk of age-related frailty and double the risk of developing gangrene. Even more strikingly, disrupted sleep rhythms were tied to: 37% of Parkinson's risk 36% of Type 2 diabetes risk 22% of acute kidney failure risk Researchers calculated that for 92 diseases, over 20% of cases could theoretically be prevented with optimal sleep. Sleep consistency matters more than duration While most health advice focuses on getting 7–9 hours of sleep, this study found that when and how consistently you sleep might be even more critical. Disrupted sleep rhythms were linked to 83 diseases not previously connected to sleep duration, conditions like COPD, kidney failure, and Type 2 diabetes. Validation through U.S.-based NHANES data confirmed these surprising associations, especially the strong link between irregular sleep and COPD. Researchers also identified biological markers, like elevated white blood cells and C-reactive protein, that may explain how disrupted sleep leads to disease through chronic inflammation. Despite its strengths, the study had limitations: it focused on a largely White, healthy group and measured only one week of sleep data.
India.com
16-07-2025
- India.com
Vasuki Indicus: New King Of Giants Unearthed In Indias...., Dethrones Titanoboa; Check Its Massive Size, Weight, Fossil Pics
photoDetails english Vasuki Indicus Real Photos by IIT: Those who know about Lord Shiva, also knows about the revered snake Vasuki. Known as the snake that Lord Shiva wears around his neck, Vasuki was the son of the sage Kashyapa and the serpent queen Kadru, as per Hindu mythology or belief. As per Hindu scriptures, Vasuki was of unprecedented size and weight. In the modern era, for decades, the colossal Titanoboa held the undisputed title of the largest snake to have ever roamed Earth, with its impressive length of up to 42 feet. However, a groundbreaking discovery in Gujarat has potentially rewritten this chapter of paleontological history. Updated:Jul 16, 2025, 08:42 PM IST Vasuki Indicus Length, Weight 1 / 7 Fossils unearthed along the Kutch coast reveal an ancient serpent, now named Vasuki Indicus, estimated to have measured a staggering 49 feet long and weighed nearly 1,000 kilograms. This monumental find, the result of nearly two decades of dedicated research by scientists from IIT Roorkee, not only challenges our understanding of prehistoric megafauna but also draws a fascinating link to the mythical serpent Vasuki Naag from ancient Indian scriptures. Let's delve into the remarkable details of Vasuki Indicus: Vasuki Indicus: Scale, Size 2 / 7 The sheer scale of Vasuki Indicus redefines what was thought possible for ancient snakes. With length around 49 feet, it is a strong contender for the longest snake to have ever lived, potentially exceeding the previous record holder, Titanoboa. Based on the dimensions of its vertebrae, which measure between 38 to 62 millimeters in length and 62 to 111 millimeters in width, researchers infer that Vasuki Indicus possessed a broad, cylindrical body, similar to modern-day large pythons or anacondas. Vasuki Indicus Fossil 3 / 7 The story of Vasuki Indicus began with the discovery of its ancient remains, meticulously studied and identified over many years. The fossils were initially unearthed in 2005 at the Panandhro Lignite Mine in the Kutch district of Gujarat, India. Researchers recovered 27 mostly well-preserved vertebrae. Due to their massive size, the bones were initially thought to belong to a large crocodile, highlighting the extraordinary scale of this ancient serpent. Vasuki Indicus Age 4 / 7 Vasuki Indicus is estimated to have lived during the Middle Eocene period, approximately 47 million years ago, a time characterized by a warm global climate conducive to the growth of large cold-blooded reptiles. Vasuki Indicus belongs to an extinct lineage of giant snakes, offering insights into their evolutionary history. Vasuki Indicus Real Reconstruction 5 / 7 Though a complete skeleton of Vasuki Indicus has not been found, scientific analysis of its vertebrae allowed for remarkable reconstructions and insights into its lifestyle. The size and distinctive features of the recovered vertebrae were instrumental in estimating the snake's overall length and weight. Vasuki Indicus Mythology 6 / 7 The naming of this newly discovered species highlights a fascinating connection between ancient Indian lore and modern scientific discovery. The name "Vasuki Indicus" is a direct reference to Vasuki Naag, the revered mythical serpent from Hindu scriptures, often depicted as a divine ornament around Lord Shiva's neck. Vasuki Indicus vs. Titanoboa 7 / 7 It's a battle of the beasts. Vasuki Indicus, with an estimated maximum length of 49 feet, potentially surpasses Titanoboa's maximum reported length of 42 feet. While Vasuki Indicus is estimated to be around 1,000 kg, Titanoboa has been estimated to weigh slightly more, up to 1.25 tonnes.
