Latest news with #ChandrashekharMeshram
Time of India
24-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Mind The Bite: Mosquitoes Can Wreck Brain, Not Just Cause Dengue, Malaria
1 2 Nagpur: Next time a mosquito bites you, there's more to worry about than just malaria or dengue. Experts say that mosquitoes are spreading diseases, many of which can severely damage the brain. Highlighting the issue during World Brain Week, experts — including Padma Shri Dr Chandrashekhar Meshram, trustee of the World Federation of Neurology — have raised the alarm about how mosquito-borne infections are increasingly threatening brain health. "The majority of deaths caused by mosquito-borne diseases are due to brain involvement. Nervous system complications are now being reported more frequently," said Dr Meshram. Neurologists say that different mosquito species spread different diseases: Aedes mosquitoes spread zika, dengue, and chikungunya; Anopheles mosquitoes spread malaria; and Culex mosquitoes are responsible for Japanese encephalitis and West Nile virus. "Only female mosquitoes bite humans because they require protein during reproduction," Dr Meshram explained. What was once confined to tropical and subtropical regions has now expanded globally. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Aedes mosquitoes are now expanding into new geographical areas. One of the most persistent threats is chikungunya. Neurological complications from chikungunya — such as encephalopathy, spinal cord inflammation, and neuropathy — are seen in many patients. "About 10% die, and up to 40% of children develop long-term disabilities. We still don't have a specific treatment, but two vaccines are now nearing availability in India," Dr Meshram informed. Dengue is another growing concern. According to Dr Marco Medina, former president of the Pan American Federation of Neurological Sciences, "The global incidence of dengue has increased 30-fold in the last 30 years. It's now endemic in 128 countries, affecting 3.9 billion people, with around 70 to 140 million cases annually, and 5 lakh severe cases." Dr Medina highlighted that neurological symptoms occur in 4–5% of confirmed dengue cases, including encephalitis, meningitis, Parkinson's-like symptoms, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and even vision loss. "Though the Dengvaxia vaccine has been licensed in some countries, it requires three doses over six months and is not yet universally available," he added. The threat of malaria is equally alarming. "In 2023 alone, the world saw 263 million malaria cases and 597,000 deaths, with Africa accounting for 94% of these," said Dr Lawrence Tucker, president of the African Academy of Neurology. To combat these diseases, neurologists advocate sustained mosquito control and personal protection.
Time of India
22-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Rapid rise in microplastics found in human brain
Nagpur: Our brain has plastic. Yes, you read it right. Recent research shows that microplastics are entering the human brain, and the amount is rapidly increasing. Fruits are not plastic-free while plastic particles have been found in fish we eat, and even the water we drink. This perhaps explains the presence of plastic particles in the human brain, doctors say. Highlighting a major concern during World Brain Week, neurologists shared shocking data: A study comparing brains of people who died in 2016 with those who died in 2024 found 50% rise in plastic particles in the vital organ. "These findings are alarming. They show that our lifestyle changes over just a few years are impacting our brain," said Padma Shri Dr Chandrashekhar Meshram, senior neurologist from Nagpur and Trustee of the World Federation of Neurology (WFN). Dr Meshram shared research by Alexander Nihart on microplastics in deceased human brains published in the March edition of Nature Medicine journal. "Microplastics are so tiny in size that they can enter our body through food, water, air, and even skin contact. Once inside, they travel through our blood and get deposited in organs like the liver, kidneys, and especially the brain, where levels are 20 to 30 times higher than other organs," explained Dr Meshram. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like My 4-year-old kidneys are failing, only you can help Donate For Health Donate Now Undo "Microplastics cross the blood-brain barrier and can disrupt brain function. They may trigger inflammation and even stroke," said Dr Meshram. "Out of 12 types of plastic polymers found in the brain, polyethylene — used in bottles and packaging — was the most common," said professor Raidh Gouider, former WFN Trustee from Tunisia. He added, "Plastics now make up about 0.5% of brain weight. That's roughly 7 grams of micro and nano plastics in our brain over a lifetime." When asked if the brain can adapt naturally to this plastic, professor Jacques Reid, former chair of the Environmental Neurology Group, WFN, shared an interesting take. "The human brain is an extraordinary organ that has adapted over centuries to changing environments, including new dietary exposures," he said. "But adaptation has its limits. The rise in plastic exposure should not be taken lightly. We must act now to protect both our environment and our brain health," he added. BOX RESEARCH FINDINGS 50% more microplastics found in brains of people who died in 2024 as compared to those in 2016 7 grams of plastic can accumulate in a human brain over a lifetime Microplastics in the brain are 20–30 times higher than in the liver or kidney One litre bottled water carries 2.4 lakh plastic particles Apples & carrots have more than 1,00,000 plastic particles per gram
Time of India
21-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
AI can't match brain's power of empathy, imagination, and resilience: Dr Meshram
Nagpur: Artificial Intelligence may be changing the world, but even the most powerful machines cannot match the incredible abilities of the human brain. On World Brain Day 2025, neurologists remind us that while AI can simulate some tasks, it cannot feel, imagine, or truly understand like we can. More importantly, no machine can take care of your health, emotions, or identity — the brain is what makes you, you. "AI can process data and mimic some decisions, but it lacks the creativity, compassion, and adaptability of a real brain," said Padma Shri Dr Chandrashekhar Meshram, senior neurologist and trustee of the World Federation of Neurology (WFN). "Unlike AI, the human brain can grow, recover, and reshape itself throughout life. That's what makes it so special — and so important to protect." This year's global theme is 'Brain Health for All Ages', focusing on the idea that brain care must begin early and continue lifelong. The message is simple: Don't wait for old age to think about brain health — it matters at every stage of life. World Brain Day, led by WFN and supported by WHO, is being observed in over 125 countries, including a strong campaign by the Nagpur Neuro Society and Indian Academy of Neurology. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 15 most beautiful women in the world Undo The aim is to reduce the burden of brain diseases, fight stigma, and raise awareness that brain health is not a luxury — it's a necessity. From toddlers to the elderly, from rural villages to tech cities, brain health touches everyone. "We must move beyond age or region and make brain health a shared priority," said WFN president Prof Wolfgang Grisold. His colleague, Prof Tissa Wijeratne, added, "This is about equity in healthcare and giving every person a chance to live with dignity and mental strength." Globally, nearly 70% of neurological illnesses occur in low and middle-income countries, where access to neurologists is limited. Experts estimate that up to 40% of strokes and dementias, and 25% of epilepsies are preventable with early care and awareness. So this World Brain Day, pause for a moment — not to ask what AI can do next, but to ask what you are doing for your own brain today. Simple Habits, Big Impact * Eat smart: Include foods rich in omega-3s (like nuts and fish) and antioxidants (fruits and vegetables) * Stay active: Regular exercise improves memory and blood flow to the brain * Sleep enough: Your brain repairs and recharges during sleep * Learn new things: Keep the brain engaged with new skills or hobbies * Stay connected: Meaningful relationships protect the brain from stress and mental decline
Time of India
08-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
World Brain Tumour Day: Early Detection Saves Lives, say city doctors
Nagpur: Eminent neurologists from the city joined experts from across the globe on World Brain Tumour Day to raise awareness about the disease. At an event held at the Indian Medical Association (IMA) headquarters in Nagpur, specialists emphasised the importance of early diagnosis, discussed symptoms and treatment options, and highlighted the multifaceted challenges faced by patients and their families. Renowned neurologist and Padma Shri Dr Chandrashekhar Meshram stressed the need for timely detection and comprehensive care. He said awareness about the type of brain tumour and its symptoms is crucial. "If diagnosed in the early stages, proper treatment can save lives. Therefore, timely diagnosis and treatment are extremely important," he added. A brain tumour is an abnormal growth of cells within the brain, which may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). These growths can either originate in the brain (primary brain tumours) or spread from other parts of the body (secondary or metastatic tumours). Prominent neurosurgeon Dr Vivek Agrawal reiterated the importance of awareness, stating that early detection and medical intervention can significantly improve outcomes. However, due to the complexity of the brain and its functions, brain tumours can be difficult to diagnose in the early stages. Common symptoms that require attention include persistent headaches, nausea or vomiting, seizures, vision or hearing problems, memory loss or confusion, and difficulty with balance and coordination. Dr Agrawal also explained that the purpose of Brain Tumour Day is to educate the public about the disease and its impact, to express solidarity with patients, survivors, and caregivers, and to promote and fund research for better treatments and potential cures. In India, the prevalence of brain tumours is estimated to be 8 to 10 cases per 1,00,000 population, with around 28,000 new cases reported annually. Neurologist Dr Ninad Shrikhande pointed out that the actual figure may be significantly higher due to underreporting, largely caused by a lack of awareness, limited healthcare accessibility, and financial constraints. Despite the challenges associated with a brain tumour diagnosis, experts conveyed a strong message of hope. Advancements in medical science, combined with increased awareness, are leading to better treatment outcomes and improved quality of life for many patients.
