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New York Post
22-07-2025
- Health
- New York Post
Your risk of a heart attack or stroke climbs in the week after this common infection
Urine for a rough ride with this infection. High blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, cigarette use, diabetes, obesity and physical inactivity are among the risk factors for heart attack and stroke. A family history of these episodes, age and sex play a role, too. 3 Several factors increase your risk of heart attack and stroke — a urinary tract infection might be one of them. Getty Images A new study adds to growing evidence that urinary tract infections can also raise the odds of a heart attack or stroke, with the highest risk observed within the first week of the UTI. UTIs are incredibly common in women. About 60% of women will experience at least one, while only 12% of men will have one. A reason for this difference is that the female urethra is shorter and closer to the anus than the male urethra. UTIs frequently occur when bacteria from the skin or rectum — particularly E. coli — enter the urinary tract through the urethra and travel to the bladder. Common symptoms include a frequent and urgent need to pee, a burning sensation during urination, cloudy or strong-smelling urine and pain or pressure in the lower belly or back. 3 Women are much more likely to experience a UTI than men, largely due to anatomical differences. Chinnapong – UTIs typically take three to seven days to clear with antibiotics, but severe infections that spread beyond the bladder can take longer to resolve. One major problem with UTIs is that they tend to recur, especially in sexually active women and those who use a diaphragm for contraception. These infections can pave the way for a heart attack or stroke because they can trigger or worsen inflammation, which is the body's natural defense mechanism to combat infections and injuries. Inflammation can destabilize plaques in arteries, increasing the chance they'll rupture and dangerous blood clots will form. For the new study, Cardiff University researchers tracked 2,300 Welsh residents 30 and older who experienced their first heart attack and 2,800 residents who suffered a stroke between 2010 and 2020. Everyone had reported having a UTI before these incidents. The researchers determined that UTIs raised the risk for heart attack and stroke in the first week, then again from 15 to 28 days and 29 to 90 days after the infection. 3 Remember to fully empty your bladder and practice good bathroom hygiene to lower your risk of UTIs. phoenix021 – E. coli infections were linked to a lower risk of heart attack but a higher stroke risk compared to other bacteria. The researchers acknowledged that a limitation of their study is that the risks were calculated from the date of UTI diagnosis and not the precise start of the infection. The findings were published last month in BMJ Open. How to prevent UTIs
Focus Malaysia
20-07-2025
- Focus Malaysia
AI and ethics can help stop online harassment
Letter to Editor FROM school halls to digital spaces, moral and civic education teaches us to be helpful, considerate, and kind members of society. Yet, despite these teachings, various forms of harm continue to plague both physical and online worlds. One such issue is online harassment—also commonly referred to as cyberbullying. Online harassment has become a distressingly common experience for many internet users. It involves acts of aggression, intimidation, or abuse carried out across digital platforms. According to researchers like Leduc and colleagues in Computers in Human Behavior, it can take many forms—disinformation, name-calling, threats, sexual harassment, and public humiliation. This digital abuse can affect people from all walks of life, although certain demographic factors such as ethnicity, age, and gender may influence how likely someone is to experience it. Pew Research Center reports by Monica Anderson in 2018 and more recent updates by Atske in 2024 highlight how widespread and persistent the issue is, particularly among teens. Similarly, a Malaysian-based study published in BMJ Open by Samsudin and colleagues in 2023 found that young adults experiencing cyberbullying often also report psychological distress and strained family dynamics. In Malaysia, researchers Kee, Anwar, and Vranjes pointed out in 2024 that online harassment is a risk factor for suicidal thoughts among youth. Often, the abuse stems from prejudice—negative stereotypes based on religion, ethnicity, gender, or even personal interests can quickly snowball into digital attacks. Victims may receive a barrage of cruel messages, mockery, or hate comments targeting their identity. Cultural norms can also fuel the problem. When mocking or humiliating others is treated as entertainment, especially in online communities, abusers feel emboldened. The anonymity of the internet offers a protective mask that emboldens people to say what they would never say face-to-face. Combined with the misuse of free speech, this creates a digital culture that tolerates—even encourages—harmful behaviour. The effects of online harassment are not limited to bruised egos. Victims often face serious mental health challenges. Studies by Dr Cheryl Nixon in 2014 reveal how victims may suffer from depression, anxiety, disrupted sleep patterns, appetite loss, and even suicidal ideation. These psychological effects can lead to social withdrawal, strained relationships, and a deep sense of helplessness. Embarrassment, fear, and self-blame are common emotional responses. Many victims, especially teens and young adults, avoid telling friends or family about their experiences, which only amplifies their isolation. A landmark case in Canada, R. v. Elliott in 2016, highlighted the legal implications of online abuse. The case was connected to Rehtaeh Parsons, a 17-year-old girl who took her life after a photo of her sexual assault was widely shared online, followed by relentless digital harassment. Although initial investigations failed to yield justice, public outcry prompted a renewed effort that led to charges under Canada's Cyberbullying Prevention Act—also known as Bill C-13. This tragic case led to legislative reform. Nova Scotia passed 'Rehtaeh's Law,' the first of its kind in Canada, which broadened the legal definition of cyberbullying and provided new tools for law enforcement to act. Writing in Crime, Media, Culture, researcher Alice Dodge in 2023 emphasised how the case shifted public perception of cyberbullying—from a social issue to a serious crime requiring legal intervention. Can ethics and AI offer solutions? As technology evolves, so do our opportunities to address online harassment in smarter ways. Media ethics plays a key role here. Researchers like Milosevic and colleagues in 2022, writing in the International Journal of Bullying Prevention, argue that media platforms must uphold ethical standards that prioritise harm reduction. This includes creating clear content guidelines, efficient reporting mechanisms, and psychological support systems for those affected. Media outlets should portray victims with dignity and avoid sensationalising abuse, while ensuring perpetrators are held accountable. Technology, particularly artificial intelligence, could also help stem the tide. AI-powered moderation tools, if designed ethically, can assist in identifying abusive content and preventing its spread. But these systems must prioritise fairness, transparency, and accountability. Many current algorithms are geared toward boosting engagement—even if that means promoting provocative or harmful content. Instead, platforms need to redesign algorithms to avoid amplifying negativity. As highlighted by Zubiaga in the International Review of Information Ethics in 2021, tech companies must also be transparent about how moderation decisions are made and offer clear ways for users to report abuse. Ultimately, it's not just up to lawmakers, media companies, or AI developers. All internet users share the responsibility to create a culture of empathy, respect, and mutual accountability. By standing against online harassment, speaking up for victims, and supporting efforts for ethical technology, we can help make digital spaces safer for everyone. —July 20, 2025 The authors are from the Department of Science and Technology Studies, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia. Main image: Kaspersky
Time of India
09-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Rising screen time in Indian homes is impacting toddler growth and parents' mental well-being
A recent study published in BMJ Paediatrics looked at 3,624 parents of children aged 2 to 5 across five northern Indian states between July and October 2024. It found that more than 60% of toddlers are spending 2 to 4 hours a day on screens—far more than the World Health Organization's recommendation of just one hour of supervised, good-quality content. Shockingly, some kids are getting up to eight hours of screen time daily. Experts warn this isn't just about busy schedules—it could seriously affect children's brain development and growth. Parents use screens as digital pacifiers The study found that screens are frequently used to calm children, free up parents' time, or complete household chores. While understandable, this approach carries consequences. Children exposed to excessive screen time showed less verbal interaction, reduced outdoor play, and minimal participation in creative activities. When parents skip screen limits or use screens during meals, excessive use becomes significantly more likely Why toddlers need real talk, not screen time During the ages of 2–5, children rely on real-life interactions to develop language, emotional understanding, and problem-solving skills. Screens simply can't replicate the back-and-forth dialogue and sensory-rich experiences required for healthy growth. As Priyank Bhutani, a co-author of the BMJ study, points out, 'Language is a learned behaviour. A screen cannot give you two-way communication. You need a social environment to learn. ' Research links screen time to kids' developmental delays In Kerala, a 2021 BMC Pediatrics study of preschoolers found that inconsistent supervision during screen time was linked to cognitive delays, affecting attention, social skills, and problem-solving. Further, systematic reviews, including one in BMJ Open, associate excessive screen use with delays in language, attention span, and emotional regulation. International evidence from JAMA Pediatrics shows toddlers who consume 2–5 hours of video content daily scored significantly lower on language and memory by age 5—compared to children exposed for under an hour. Mental health professionals raise red flags Mental health experts are seeing these trends reflected in children's behavior. Delayed speech, reduced eye contact, limited imaginative play, and emotional dysregulation are emerging as common symptoms. This is described as "digital dysregulation"—children seek the dopamine-driven stimulation of screens but struggle to engage with everyday tasks. It is noted that children often calm down with screens but then can't tolerate normal boredom. Journalist Rajvi Turakhia adds that 'the brain begins craving the dopamine hit of quick cuts, loud sounds, and instant gratification,' making real-world stimuli seem dull. Why parents need help managing screen time, not blame Many parents admit overreliance on screens, citing stress, time demands, or mental health needs. A mother of two candidly shared that screen time has become a 'crutch' while juggling work and caring for her children. Others observe mood swings and sleep disruption in their kids with high screen usage. Professionals emphasise a supportive, non-judgmental approach. Rather than blame, parents need accessible guidance—on how to set limits, choose high-quality content, and offer screen-free alternatives. Merely reducing screen time isn't enough; how screens are used matters greatly. WHO and AAP guidelines stress supervised, interactive, educational content—co-viewed with parents—not passive viewing. One mother noticed her toddler mimicking 'angry dinosaur' shows—and changed course toward calmer programming with better results. Simple, sustainable strategies to reclaim screen-free time Professionals recommend practical changes that ease screen usage without guilt: Set clear, realistic limits: consistently enforce them across weekdays and weekends. Encourage interactive play: puzzles, blocks, drawing, role-play—activities that boost communication and problem-solving. Create screen-free zones: mealtime and bedtime routines are ideal. Replace screen use with bonding activities: reading out loud, storytelling, or songs. Promote outdoor play: even short, active sessions support physical, cognitive, and emotional growth. These parent-led shifts can reverse developmental concerns; early intervention is key—toddlers' brains remain impressively adaptive BMJ study urges Indian-specific screen-time solutions for families The BMJ study emphasises the need for Indian-context resources—from community workshops to government campaigns—that educate families on healthy screen practices. As India becomes more digital, parents need culturally relevant tools that focus less on restrictions and more on practical, screen-smart parenting. Despite rising screen use, the outlook isn't bleak. With parental awareness, small lifestyle changes, and supportive resources, young children can enjoy healthy development. As digital saturation grows, balance—rather than digital avoidance—is the clue. Quality interactions, thoughtful media use, and loving relationships remain the core of healthy childhoods.
Medscape
30-06-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Cooking Fumes Raise Lung Cancer Risk in Never Smokers
TOPLINE: A systematic review found that higher lifetime exposure to cooking oil fumes was associated with an increased risk for lung cancer in never-smoking women in high-income countries. METHODOLOGY: Researchers conducted a systematic review to study the relationship between exposure to cooking fumes, a type of household air pollution, and lung cancer in never smokers in high-income countries. The analysis included three case-control studies comprising 3734 participants, with all studies focusing on Chinese women using traditional cooking methods. TAKEAWAY: Higher cooking time-years (> 160) were associated with an increased risk for lung cancer (odds ratio [OR], 3.17; 95% CI, 1.34-7.68). Compared with cooking dish-years ≤ 50, cooking dish-years > 200 conferred an OR of 8.09 (95% CI, 2.57-25.45). Deep frying was associated with the highest risk (per 10 dish-years), with an OR of 2.56 (95% CI, 1.31-5.00), followed by pan frying (OR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.27-1.69) and stir frying (OR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.07-1.18). Cooking three meals per day was associated with a threefold higher risk for lung cancer than cooking one meal per day (OR, 3.1; 95% CI, 1.6-6.2). Ventilation hoods showed a protective effect against lung cancer in never smokers (adjusted OR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.32-0.76). IN PRACTICE: "Exposure to cooking fumes is linked to lung cancer due to the levels of carcinogens that can be produced during the heating of oils to high temperatures. VOCs [volatile organic compounds] which are generated by cooking oils have been shown to be mutagenic, containing PACs [polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons], aldehydes, carbonyl compounds and other mutagens," the authors of the study wrote. SOURCE: This study was led by Bría Joyce McAllister, University of Leicester College of Life Sciences, Leicester, England. It was published online on June 20, 2025, in BMJ Open. LIMITATIONS: All three studies relied on questionnaires and participant recollection rather than active monitoring of household air pollutant concentrations while cooking. The questionnaires used were not included in the publications, potentially limiting replication. Additionally, none of the studies accounted for the effects of outdoor air pollution, which is known to affect health and indoor air quality. The research was limited to Chinese women in Taiwan and Hong Kong using traditional cooking methods, raising questions about applicability to other ethnic groups and high-income countries. DISCLOSURES: This study was supported by a grant from the Wellcome Trust. The National Institute for Health and Care Research Leicester Biomedical Research Centre provided additional support. The authors declared having no relevant conflicts of interest. This article was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The American Diabetes Association Demonstrates Its Commitment to Curbing the Obesity Epidemic with Obesity Standards of Care
Symposium previews new content for Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity, designed to improve patient care and outcomes CHICAGO, June 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Recent developments for the new Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity guidelines, the first clinical guidance of its kind, were presented during the Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity 2025 Updates symposium at the 85th Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association® (ADA) in Chicago. The Obesity Association™, a division of the ADA, recently announced the publication of Weight Stigma and Bias: Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity—2025, along with the Introduction & Methodology section in BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care. This comes at a time when about 110 million American adults are impacted by obesity. Further, up to (53%) of new cases of type 2 diabetes are attributed to obesity every year, demonstrating the need for comprehensive, evidence-based guidelines to inform care. The symposium highlighted key insights on physician guidelines for weight stigma and bias, including training for health care professionals, creating inclusive clinical environments, person-centered communication, shared decision making, and evidence-based interventions. Additionally, researchers highlighted what is next for the clinical guidelines, including a potential section for pharmacologic treatment and a preview of what is going to be covered in that section. The Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity 2025 Updates symposium is one of many obesity-related symposia and abstracts at the 85th Scientific Sessions, spanning basic through clinical and implementation science. Additional studies highlighting groundbreaking developments obesity treatment and care to be presented at ADA's annual meeting include: Once-Monthly MariTide for the Treatment of Obesity in People with or without Type 2 Diabetes—A 52-Week Phase 2 Study ADJUnct Semaglutide Treatment in Type 1 Diabetes (ADJUST-T1D) Trial Outcomes Can We Improve the Quality of Weight Loss by Augmenting Fat Mass Loss while Preserving Lean Mass? The BELIEVE Study of Bimagrumab + Semaglutide PATHWEIGH Trial—Building the Highway for Weight Management in Primary Care First Report of a Phase 3 RCT of Orforglipron, a Small Nonpeptide GLP-1RA, as Monotherapy in Drug-Naïve Type 2 Diabetes with Inadequate Glycemic Control—The ACHIEVE-1 Trial Efficacy and Safety of CagriSema 2.4mg/2.4mg in Adults with Overweight/Obesity—The REDEFINE 1 and REDEFINE 2 Clinical Trials "The ADA's Standards of Care in Diabetes guideline is the gold standard for diabetes care and management," said Raveendhara Bannuru, MD, PhD, the ADA's vice president, medical affairs and lead author of the guidelines. "The new Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity guidelines stand to yield significant impact and progress in patient care, and it's only just the beginning." As part of the ADA's ongoing commitment to combating obesity, new clinical practice guidelines and initiatives are continually being developed to advance the quality of care. Research presentation details:Dr. Bannuru and other Professional Practice Committee members will present these findings at the symposium: Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity 2025 Updates Friday, June 20 from 12:45–1:45 p.m. About the ADA's Scientific SessionsThe ADA's 85th Scientific Sessions, the world's largest scientific meeting focused on diabetes research, prevention, and care, will be held in Chicago, IL, on June 20–23. Thousands of leading physicians, scientists, and health care professionals from around the world are expected to convene both in person and virtually to unveil cutting-edge research, treatment recommendations, and advances toward a cure for diabetes. Attendees will receive exclusive access to thousands of original research presentations and take part in provocative and engaging exchanges with leading diabetes experts. Join the Scientific Sessions conversation on social media using #ADASciSessions. About the Obesity Association Obesity is an epidemic that demands both attention and action. The Obesity Association, a division of the American Diabetes Association, is dedicated to reducing the prevalence of obesity and improving health outcomes. Through a focus on education, action, and evidence-based support, we strive to create a world where people affected by obesity can thrive. About the American Diabetes AssociationThe American Diabetes Association (ADA) is the nation's leading voluntary health organization fighting to end diabetes and helping people thrive. This year, the ADA celebrates 85 years of driving discovery and research to prevent, manage, treat, and ultimately cure—and we're not stopping. There are 136 million Americans living with diabetes or prediabetes. Through advocacy, program development, and education, we're fighting for them all. To learn more or to get involved, visit us at or call 1-800-DIABETES (800-342-2383). Join us in the fight on Facebook (American Diabetes Association), Spanish Facebook (Asociación Americana de la Diabetes), LinkedIn (American Diabetes Association), and Instagram (@AmDiabetesAssn). To learn more about how we are advocating for everyone affected by diabetes, visit us on X (@AmDiabetesAssn). Media Contact: Mimi Carmody, MCarmody@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE American Diabetes Association Sign in to access your portfolio
