Latest news with #Candidaalbicans
Scottish Sun
29-05-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Warning as deadly fungal infections that enter the bloodstream on the rise – and scientists identify those most at risk
'Our surveillance shows that serious fungal infections are having an increasing impact on public health,' Professor Andy Borman from the UKHSA says 'REMAIN VIGILANT' Warning as deadly fungal infections that enter the bloodstream on the rise – and scientists identify those most at risk Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) SEVERAL deadly fungal infections are on the rise in England, health chiefs warn - including one labeled a 'huge threat to humanity'. In 2024, cases of fungi entering the bloodstream rose slightly from 3.8 to 3.9 per 100,000 people, new figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reveal. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Experts think the rise in infections may be linked to more complex surgeries, longer hospital stays, and increased antibiotic use Credit: Getty Most were found in vulnerable patients in hospitals, particularly those with weakened immune systems. Bloodstream infections caused by a type of fungus called yeast usually happen in hospitals, from yeasts that naturally live on our skin or inside our bodies. The main culprits behind these new infections are yeast species like Candida albicans, Nakaseomyces glabratus, and Candida parapsilosis. Candida albicans, or C. albicans as it is sometimes called, has already been named by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of 19 deadly fungi posing a serious threat to humanity. It's branded a superbug because it's becoming harder and harder to treat due to growing drug resistance. But UKHSA chiefs are most concerned about Candidozyma auris - a tougher, drug-resistant fungus that has also been reported and can be deadly and spreads easily in hospitals. Between 2013 and 2024, there were 637 reported cases of in England, with 178 just last year alone, data suggests. Once rare, it's been steadily rising, especially since the Covid pandemic restrictions ended. Experts say the rise may be linked to more complex surgeries, longer hospital stays, and increased antibiotic use – all of which can weaken the body's defenses. 'Our surveillance shows that serious fungal infections are having an increasing impact on public health," Professor Andy Borman from the UKHSA said. Are fungal infections a serious threat? "The rise of drug-resistant C. auris means we must remain vigilant to protect patient safety.' To tackle this threat, UKHSA has stepped up surveillance and made C. auris a notifiable infection. This means hospitals must report cases quickly to help control outbreaks. 2 The WHO have ranked 19 fungal priority pathogensbased on threat to humanity
Economic Times
07-05-2025
- Health
- Economic Times
Is there a new global health threat? Fungal superbugs spread panic with climate change expanding its reach
Another dangerous fungus causes lung issues WHO lists 19 fungal species as urgent priorities Live Events Climate change could exacerbate the spread Urgent need for antifungal innovation FAQs: (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel A new global health threat is emerging—drug-resistant fungal infections . These microscopic fungal spores like Coccidioides , responsible for valley fever , are infecting people who inhale them from air or soil, even in their own Irvin from California became critically ill after he unknowingly inhaled the spores. Doctors took nearly a year to correctly diagnose him. However, by that time, he had lost a significant amount of weight and nearly per a CNN report, another survivor Rob Purdie contracted fungal meningitis after he inhaled spores while gardening and now depends on lifelong toxic treatments. Aspergillus fumigatus , another dangerous fungus, could spread across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, and will affect millions of vulnerable individuals. This fungus, a study said, thrives in warm, damp environments and could potentially infect people by invading their lungs, particularly those who have underlying health issues like asthma, cystic fibrosis, or weakened immune World Health Organisation (WHO) reportedly has enlisted nearly 6.5 million invasive fungal infections. This, they said, results in 3.8 million deaths globally each year and the numbers are climbing due to increasing drug listed 19 fungal species under urgent priorities for new drug development, among which Aspergillus fumigatus is one. Other dangerous species include Cryptococcus neoformans (deadly meningitis), Candida auris (highly drug-resistant hospital infections) and Candida albicans (common yeast that can become invasive).The CNN report stated that developing antifungal drugs is especially challenging since fungi are genetically closer to humans than bacteria. This means, the treatments can harm human cells, which could result in kidney failure, liver damage, or other severe side Neil Clancy, an infectious disease specialist and associate professor of medicine at University of Pittsburgh, told CNN that if an antifungal drug is being made, it is crucial to come up with formulations that will not harm genes and human have noted that changing climate patterns, wildfires, and dust storms likely expand the fungi's geographic reach. Reportedly, cases of Coccidioides infection have been reported in over 20 US states, including regions which previously were study on Aspergillus fumigatus stated it could expand across an additional 77 per cent of global territory by 2100 as climate change is accelerated. Researchers have estimated that 9 million people in Europe alone could be exposed to infection risks if fungus takes the fungus can grow rapidly in compost at high temperatures and can survive the human body's internal heat of 37°C. It was also found thriving in extreme environments like Chernobyl's nuclear drugs like Olorofim offer hope, however, experts have warned that limited specialist access and lack of public awareness could leave many patients untreated or misdiagnosed. More research, better treatments, and physician training are urgently needed to confront this growing fungal superbug threat, stated the CNN Elaine Bignell, co-director at the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at Exeter University, said that the development of new antifungal treatments has been slow. One key reason, as per an NDTV report, is financial unattractiveness of investing in antifungal the antifungal medicines are costly to develop and often spotted as less profitable compared to others in drug are fungal infections that no longer react to usual antifungal treatment, so they are more difficult to treat and are possibly includes species such as Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida auris, Cryptococcus neoformans, and Coccidioides among the most lethal ones.
Time of India
07-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Is there a new global health threat? Fungal superbugs spread panic with climate change expanding its reach
5 5 Next Stay Playback speed 1x Normal Back 0.25x 0.5x 1x Normal 1.5x 2x 5 5 / Skip Ads by Another dangerous fungus causes lung issues WHO lists 19 fungal species as urgent priorities Live Events Climate change could exacerbate the spread Urgent need for antifungal innovation FAQs: A new global health threat is emerging—drug-resistant fungal infections . These microscopic fungal spores like Coccidioides , responsible for valley fever , are infecting people who inhale them from air or soil, even in their own Irvin from California became critically ill after he unknowingly inhaled the spores. Doctors took nearly a year to correctly diagnose him. However, by that time, he had lost a significant amount of weight and nearly per a CNN report, another survivor Rob Purdie contracted fungal meningitis after he inhaled spores while gardening and now depends on lifelong toxic treatments. Aspergillus fumigatus , another dangerous fungus, could spread across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, and will affect millions of vulnerable individuals. This fungus, a study said, thrives in warm, damp environments and could potentially infect people by invading their lungs, particularly those who have underlying health issues like asthma, cystic fibrosis, or weakened immune World Health Organisation (WHO) reportedly has enlisted nearly 6.5 million invasive fungal infections. This, they said, results in 3.8 million deaths globally each year and the numbers are climbing due to increasing drug listed 19 fungal species under urgent priorities for new drug development, among which Aspergillus fumigatus is one. Other dangerous species include Cryptococcus neoformans (deadly meningitis), Candida auris (highly drug-resistant hospital infections) and Candida albicans (common yeast that can become invasive).The CNN report stated that developing antifungal drugs is especially challenging since fungi are genetically closer to humans than bacteria. This means, the treatments can harm human cells, which could result in kidney failure, liver damage, or other severe side Neil Clancy, an infectious disease specialist and associate professor of medicine at University of Pittsburgh, told CNN that if an antifungal drug is being made, it is crucial to come up with formulations that will not harm genes and human have noted that changing climate patterns, wildfires, and dust storms likely expand the fungi's geographic reach. Reportedly, cases of Coccidioides infection have been reported in over 20 US states, including regions which previously were study on Aspergillus fumigatus stated it could expand across an additional 77 per cent of global territory by 2100 as climate change is accelerated. Researchers have estimated that 9 million people in Europe alone could be exposed to infection risks if fungus takes the fungus can grow rapidly in compost at high temperatures and can survive the human body's internal heat of 37°C. It was also found thriving in extreme environments like Chernobyl's nuclear drugs like Olorofim offer hope, however, experts have warned that limited specialist access and lack of public awareness could leave many patients untreated or misdiagnosed. More research, better treatments, and physician training are urgently needed to confront this growing fungal superbug threat, stated the CNN Elaine Bignell, co-director at the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at Exeter University, said that the development of new antifungal treatments has been slow. One key reason, as per an NDTV report, is financial unattractiveness of investing in antifungal the antifungal medicines are costly to develop and often spotted as less profitable compared to others in drug are fungal infections that no longer react to usual antifungal treatment, so they are more difficult to treat and are possibly includes species such as Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida auris, Cryptococcus neoformans, and Coccidioides among the most lethal ones.
India.com
23-04-2025
- Health
- India.com
How Eye Makeup Is Secretly Harming Your Vision: Expert Reveals 8 Hidden Dangers And Safe Practices
Our eyes are among the most delicate and vital organs in the body. While many of us rely on eye makeup to enhance beauty and confidence, few are aware of the hidden risks that these products can pose to our vision and ocular health. Dr Swetha Kudtarkar, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, sheds light on how common cosmetic practices may be silently damaging your eyes and what precautions you should take. The Age-Old Allure of Eye Makeup Women across civilizations have adorned their eyes with makeup—from kohl and kajal to modern mascaras and eyeliners. But as eye cosmetics become more advanced, their effects on the eye's sensitive structures also grow more concerning. According to Dr Kudtarkar, 'Eye makeup can worsen or trigger dry eye symptoms, as these cosmetics migrate into the tear film and reduce the oily layer, causing faster tear evaporation.' Shockingly, a large number of women (up to 90%) use expired or counterfeit cosmetics, increasing their exposure to serious eye conditions such as blepharitis and chronic infections. 8 Hidden Dangers of Eye Makeup Dr Swetha has shared 8 hidden dangers of eye makeup and how it impacts eye health: 1. Increased Risk of Infection Eye makeup products can harbor harmful pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans, especially after repeated use. Sharing makeup or using products beyond three months drastically increases contamination risks. 2. Risk of Mechanical Trauma Dr Swetha says mascara wands and eyeliner tips can accidentally scratch the cornea, allowing bacteria direct access to deeper eye tissues, leading to infections and even corneal ulcers. 3. Toxic Ingredients "Heavy metals like cadmium found in some eyeliners can cause corneal damage and mitochondrial dysfunction. These ingredients can disrupt the natural functions of the eye, leading to long-term harm," says Dr Swetha. 4. Allergic Reactions Many cosmetics contain allergens like nickel, preservatives, resins, and fragrances. Dr Swetha says these can lead to conditions like dermatitis, particularly along the lash line, or full eyelid swelling and irritation. 5. Pigmentation Changes Regular use of kajal or soot-based products can result in pigment deposits in the conjunctiva, changing the natural coloration of the eye and surrounding skin. 6. Tear Drainage Blockage Dr Swetha says heavy mascara use can cause clumps to obstruct the lacrimal drainage system, leading to watery eyes, discomfort, and an increased risk of infection. 7. Disruption of Tear Stability Makeup removers and eyeliners alter the meibum's viscosity, affecting tear film stability and exacerbating dry eye symptoms. 8. Contact Lens Discomfort Cosmetics can bind to the surface of contact lenses, irritating the eyes and leading to poor lens performance. Safe Makeup Practices: Expert Tips from Dr Swetha To enjoy makeup without compromising eye health, Dr Swetha recommends the following: 1. Apply outside the lash line and avoid roots of lashes to prevent gland blockage. 2. Use eye drops 15–30 minutes before makeup application, not after. 3. Never sleep with makeup on. It clogs oil glands and encourages bacterial growth. 4. Choose oil and paraben-free gel-based products. Avoid mineral oil, sodium lauryl sulfate, and diazolidinyl urea. 5. Clean brushes regularly and avoid sharing makeup products. 6. Use gentle lid scrubs with baby shampoo or approved lid wipes to cleanse the eyelids. 7. Always remove contact lenses before cleaning makeup. 8. Don't apply makeup on irritated or infected eyes. 9. Check expiry dates and avoid counterfeit products. 10. Use ophthalmologist-tested or hypoallergenic products to reduce the risk of reactions. While makeup is a tool for self-expression and confidence, your eye health should never be compromised for beauty. By adopting safer cosmetic practices and staying informed about product ingredients, you can continue to highlight your eyes without endangering them. After all, your vision is just as valuable as the way you look—and both deserve equal care.
The Sun
22-04-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Woman left with ‘dark, yellow, foul-smelling discharge' after taking hair growth supplement – as docs issue warning
A WOMAN was left with dark and smelly discharge coming from her vagina after taking hair supplements. The 64-year-old began using Spring Valley Hair Skin and Nail tablets in February after hearing about the positive effects they had on her cousin. According to the supplement's ingredients list, it contains biotin, vitamins A, C, E, niacin, and pantothenic acid, all known to help with hair growth and scalp health. However, less than a month into the course, she developed candida, a yeast infection more commonly known as thrush. It caused "dark, yellow, foul-smelling discharge" and a burning sensation when she peed, according to US doctors describing the case. "This highlights the possibility of links between common, readily available products that patients use every day without the realisation of unintended side effects," they said in the Journal of Medical Case Reports. "The patient would not normally consider that hair, skin, and nails treatment could be affecting her genitourinary (reproductive and urinary) system," they added. Thrush is a common fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, a type of yeast that naturally lives in the body. In women, it most often affects the vagina, leading to symptoms like itching, burning, and unusual discharge. But it can also affect the mouth. "This is the first reported case of a hair, skin, and nails supplement associated with vaginal candidiasis," the authors wrote. Other side effects linked to similar supplements have included acne breakouts, skin rashes and nausea. A few days after stopping the supplement in mid-April, her symptoms gradually improved and eventually disappeared. NHS GP reveals how she boosted her hair growth By May, the discharge was gone, and there were no further issues during a follow-up visit in June. Doctors at Purdue University College of Pharmacy in West Lafayette investigated all other possible causes for the infection. They reviewed her medications, including aspirin, vitamin D, iron supplements, blood pressure and cholesterol tablets, sleep aids, and a topical anti-inflammatory gel. None were known to cause thrush. They also ruled out other common causes like bacterial infections, hormone imbalances, and risk factors such as diabetes, which could have led to similar symptoms. Although none of the active ingredients were known to cause thrush, doctors said preservatives or fillers in the supplement may have disrupted her vaginal pH. 'Even inactive ingredients can sometimes shift the balance of the microbiome,' they wrote. The Sun has contacted Spring Valley for comment. Supplement regulations Spring Valley Hair Skin and Nail tablets are primarily available in the US but can also be purchased online in the UK. In the US, supplements are regulated as food products under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994. They don't require US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval before being sold, and manufacturers aren't obligated to prove they're safe or effective. "Because supplements are classified as food products, they don't undergo the same rigorous testing as medications, leaving potential side effects to go unnoticed," the doctors explained. In the UK, supplements are regulated under the Food Supplements (England) Regulations 2003, which align with EU and UK food laws. They must comply with general food safety legislation and cannot make misleading health claims. But, unlike medicines, supplements are not as strictly regulated and do not undergo the same rigorous testing. The nasty ingredients hiding in supplements Supplements can help us reach vitamin and mineral recommendations. But Dr Carol Granger, a registered nutrition practitioner with a degree in biochemistry and a masters in microbiology, warns of many additions to supplements, medications and foods that could cause side effects, and suggests doing your research before buying commercial pills. She tells Sun Health: 'Ingredients like talc, E numbers, and gelatin are all used as bulking agents or as colourings and they can have serious long-term health impacts like heartburn, dizziness, fainting and severe allergic reactions." Here are the worst culprits: Magnesium stearate Unlike the name suggests, this ingredient contains no magnesium (which may help with sleep, anxiety and bone health). Dr Granger says: 'This is used as a lubricant - it prevents ingredients sticking together and means the machines that make the tablets don't block.' But she warns that 'high amounts can cause a laxative effect and it can cause inflammation too, especially in those who are sensitive to allergies'. It's unlikely the small amount found in supplements is enough to do harm, but it may be worth reconsidering if you have been taking it for a long time. Ascorbyl Palmitate Ascorbyl palmitate is a form of vitamin C made by combining ascorbic and palmitic acids. It's considered safe in the amounts that are used when added to skincare. Dr Granger says: 'This is used as an antioxidant food additive and preservative meaning things with it in can have a longer use by date.' But she claims 'excess amounts can cause nausea, diarrhoea, and vomiting'. Aspartame You'll may be familiar with aspartame, which is a sugar-alternative often used in things like soft drinks, sweetened diet products or other 'low/no sugar' foods. Dr Granger says: 'This is a sweetener a lot of people have heard of. 'It's a flavour enhancer but because it's an artificial sweetener, it has been linked to weight gain.' Studies have found both that sweeteners like aspartame help people lose weight, but also gain weight by potentially increasing appetite. Several studies have linked high intakes to more serious health problems such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and dementia but there has been much debate about the results. But Dr Granger claims: 'It can affect metabolism so if you see it on any ingredient list, my advice would be to give it a wide berth.' Carrageenans Carrageenan is an ingredient that has long had concern surrounding it. Products with it may be labelled as 'natural' because it is derived from seaweed, therefore it is also found in some plant-based/vegan foods. But Dr Granger says: 'The processing used to make some types of carrageenan makes it into something you definitely don't want to consume. 'They're widely used as gelling agent and thickener. They can be used to prevent powder clumping so may be in powder supplements you add to smoothies. 'But some cause inflammation, are really bad for digestive health and have been linked to ulcers too. 'Some can also destabilise blood sugar and cause problems with blood sugar balance.' Calcium Phosphate Calcium phosphate is a mineral (calcium and phosphate) which are essential for bone, muscle, blood and nerve health. Some may benefit from additional calcium, such as menopausal women with weakening bones. But calcium phosphate is also used as an additive to products, from supplements to toothpaste and fertilizers. Dr Granger says: 'This is used to bulk out and buffer ingredients like vitamin C. 'Side effects can include kidney problems, loss of appetite and weakness.'
