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Business Upturn
2 days ago
- Health
- Business Upturn
VitaMotion Introduced in 2025 as Your Healthy Back Protocol for Mobility and Comfort Support
New York, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Disclaimer: This press release is for informational purposes only. The information contained herein does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). VitaMotion is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement, routine, or health program. Some links in this release may be promotional in nature and may lead to third-party websites. The publisher or author may receive compensation through affiliate commissions if a purchase is made through these links. This compensation does not affect the price you pay and helps support continued research and content publication. Results described or implied may not be typical and should not be interpreted as guarantees. Statements made about ingredients or outcomes reflect public discussion and historical usage only, and are not endorsed by medical professionals or regulatory agencies. Always do your own research and make informed decisions. VitaMotion Launches Dual-Action Mobility and Back Health System for 2025 Wellness Demands Summary VitaMotion introduces a two-step program combining a nutrient-rich daily formula with a guided mobility routine developed by kinesiologist Rick Kaselj. The system is designed to address back, joint, and muscle health from both an internal and external perspective. Mobility and Back Health – A Public Health Priority Back, joint, and mobility concerns are now recognized as some of the most widespread health challenges globally. The World Health Organization reports that musculoskeletal conditions affect an estimated 1.71 billion people worldwide, making them the leading contributor to disability. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one in four U.S. adults experiences chronic joint symptoms, while lower back pain consistently ranks as one of the top causes of missed workdays. The economic burden is equally significant. According to data from the Global Burden of Disease Study, musculoskeletal disorders account for hundreds of billions of dollars in healthcare costs and productivity losses annually. In workplace environments, prolonged sitting, inadequate movement breaks, and poor ergonomic setups have all been identified as contributing factors to rising cases of posture-related discomfort and reduced range of motion. This growing public health issue extends across all age groups. Aging adults face natural declines in muscle mass, bone density, and joint lubrication, but younger populations are also affected due to sedentary lifestyles. Research from the Arthritis Foundation notes that early intervention through movement and targeted nutrition can play a key role in maintaining long-term mobility. Learn more about the VitaMotion Mobility & Back Health System here Rick Kaselj – Professional Background and Expertise Rick Kaselj, MS, BSc, has dedicated over 30 years to developing safe and effective mobility solutions. With a Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology from Simon Fraser University and a Master's in Exercise Science from California University of Pennsylvania, Kaselj has delivered over 315 live presentations to health and fitness professionals across North America. Throughout his career, he has specialized in bridging the gap between injury rehabilitation and functional movement. His previous work, including the widely recognized Unlock Your Hip Flexors program, has reached hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. For VitaMotion, Kaselj applied these same principles to design a concise daily mobility sequence that is adaptable for all fitness levels, requires no special equipment, and fits into a variety of environments. The Two-Step VitaMotion System VitaMotion is built around two coordinated components: Step 1 – Nutritional Support The daily powdered supplement contains nine active ingredients: magnesium, vitamin B complex, vitamin D, curcumin (from turmeric), boswellia serrata, ginger, white willow bark, L-theanine, and alpha lipoic acid. Each nutrient was selected for its documented role in supporting muscle, joint, and nerve function. Formulated without artificial fillers, dyes, or unnecessary additives, the blend is designed to be mixed with water and taken once daily, ideally in the morning when nutrient absorption can be most efficient. Step 2 – Guided Mobility Routine The 7–10 minute mobility sequence uses a 'release outer muscles first' approach. By easing surface-level muscle tension before activating deeper stabilizers, the sequence helps encourage improved alignment, posture, and range of motion. Movements are low-impact and can be performed either standing or seated, making the program accessible for individuals with varying mobility levels. Ingredient Science and Supporting Research Magnesium Essential for muscle contraction and relaxation, magnesium supports nerve signaling and energy metabolism. The USDA has reported that low magnesium intake increases muscle fatigue and effort perception during activity. Harvard Health notes its role in flexibility and tension reduction. Vitamin B Complex Comprising eight essential vitamins, the B complex contributes to energy production and neuromuscular coordination. The Linus Pauling Institute highlights its importance in sustaining nerve health and physical endurance. Vitamin D Supports muscle performance, bone density, and balance. The NIH reports that adequate vitamin D levels can contribute to improved spine mobility and reduced risk of falls among older adults. Curcumin A bioactive compound in turmeric, curcumin has been studied for its role in supporting a healthy inflammatory response. A 2018 review in Frontiers in Pharmacology discusses its potential in maintaining mobility and joint comfort. Boswellia Serrata Traditionally used to promote joint flexibility, boswellia has been examined for its capacity to support smooth movement and overall comfort. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center provides a comprehensive overview of its uses. Ginger Recognized for supporting circulation and potentially aiding in muscle performance after activity, ginger's active compounds have been the focus of both culinary and medical research. White Willow Bark Historically valued for promoting everyday comfort, white willow bark's traditional uses are well-documented in herbal medicine literature and supported by multiple small-scale studies. L-Theanine An amino acid naturally found in tea leaves, L-theanine supports a calm, focused state, potentially aiding natural muscle relaxation without sedation. Alpha Lipoic Acid A versatile antioxidant, alpha lipoic acid supports nerve health, energy metabolism, and cellular resilience against oxidative stress. View the full ingredient profile and program details for VitaMotion here Why Movement and Nutrition Work Better Together Multiple studies across sports medicine, gerontology, and rehabilitation science point to the benefits of combining physical activity with targeted nutritional support. Research published in the Journal of Aging Research (2023) concluded that daily low-impact movement, when paired with specific micronutrients, can help maintain independence and functional ability in older adults. Movement stimulates blood flow, improving the delivery of nutrients to muscles and joints. At the same time, nutrients like magnesium, vitamin D, and antioxidants support the very systems that movement relies on — from neuromuscular signaling to collagen synthesis and inflammatory balance. This cyclical reinforcement may explain why integrated programs are increasingly recommended in preventive care models. Market Growth and Consumer Trends The joint health supplement industry was valued at over $11 billion in 2024, according to Grand View Research, with projections showing continued growth through 2030. The home fitness and wellness program market has followed a similar trajectory, driven by demand for convenient, adaptable solutions. Social media analytics show that hashtags such as #MobilityExercises and #BackPainRelief have collectively reached billions of views across TikTok and Instagram. Reddit communities focused on flexibility, functional training, and posture correction have seen consistent subscriber growth, with many users discussing the benefits of combining movement routines with nutritional strategies. Industry analysts anticipate that corporate wellness initiatives will increasingly integrate programs similar to VitaMotion, particularly as employers look to reduce costs associated with absenteeism and musculoskeletal claims. Lifestyle Integration VitaMotion was designed for versatility. Examples of integration include: Workplace Wellness : Employees can complete the seated mobility sequence during short breaks, helping offset the effects of prolonged sitting. : Employees can complete the seated mobility sequence during short breaks, helping offset the effects of prolonged sitting. Travel : The supplement can be packed in single-serve packets, and the routine can be done in hotel rooms without equipment. : The supplement can be packed in single-serve packets, and the routine can be done in hotel rooms without equipment. Home Use : Fits easily between household tasks or before leisure activities. : Fits easily between household tasks or before leisure activities. Active Aging : Older adults can adapt the movements to their comfort level, maintaining independence and confidence in daily activities. : Older adults can adapt the movements to their comfort level, maintaining independence and confidence in daily activities. Sports and Recreation: Athletes or hobbyists can use the sequence as a gentle warm-up or recovery tool. Observations from Public Data An analysis of online discussions and publicly available feedback on integrated mobility systems shows recurring themes: users are often drawn to programs that are time-efficient, require minimal space or equipment, and are supported by transparent ingredient information. Search trends indicate that consumers are more likely to adopt systems that combine educational content with practical, easy-to-follow routines. Industry reports also highlight a shift toward preventive mobility care, with growing interest in tools that address both the underlying physical structures and the nutritional factors influencing them. Future Outlook As wearable technology, AI-driven movement analysis, and ingredient traceability continue to advance, integrated systems like VitaMotion are expected to become even more personalized. Future iterations of such programs may include real-time posture correction, adaptive exercise progressions, and customized nutrient blends based on individual biomarker data. Public health experts anticipate that the convergence of these technologies with established exercise and nutrition science could set new standards for preventive musculoskeletal care worldwide. Contact VitaMotion – Healthy Back Protocol – Healthy Back Protocol Email: [email protected] Disclaimer: This release is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. VitaMotion is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or movement program. Some links may lead to third-party sites. The publisher or author may receive compensation from purchases made through these links, at no extra cost to the buyer. This does not influence the content provided. Results vary. References to ingredients are based on public discussion and historical use and are not endorsements by medical professionals or regulatory agencies. Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Time of India
3 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
How to survive parenthood dreams and work Life: 6 tips to balance work during fertility treatments
The hidden battle for parenthood: Why millions are facing infertility and how to find support (Image: iStock) A comprehensive analysis by Global Burden of Disease Study (1990–2019), which was conducted across 204 countries, revealed a 76.9% increase in the global prevalence of male infertility from 1990 to 2019, with over 56 million men affected. The highest prevalence rates were observed in regions like Western Sub-Saharan Africa, Eastern Europe and East Asia where notably, the 30–34 age group exhibited the highest prevalence globally. Using data from the same study, a research paper titled - Global, regional, and national burden of female infertility and trends from 1990 to 2021 with projections to 2050 based on the GBD 2021 analysis - revealed that the number of women experiencing infertility has risen significantly, with female infertility cases increasing sharply worldwide since 1990 and the highest increases are observed among women aged 30 to 34, a crucial reproductive age group. Infertility surge could change parenthood forever. Are you prepared for this new reality? (Image: iStock) BRICS Countries Analysis (1990–2021), a study focusing on BRICS nations, indicated that India experienced the highest increase in male infertility cases, with an additional 8.51 million cases. Rapid population growth and inadequate reproductive health services are to be blamed for this surge in India while countries like China and Russia showed gradual improvements over the past three decades. Parenthood in Peril: A 2023 WHO Report highlighted that approximately 17.5% of the global adult population, or about 1 in 6 people, experience infertility. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Use an AI Writing Tool That Actually Understands Your Voice Grammarly Install Now Undo This prevalence remains consistent across high-, middle- and low-income countries, underscoring the widespread nature of the issue. According to health experts, infertility cases are rising in men due to low sperm count, abnormal sperm function or azoospermia (no sperm in the semen) while women are facing fertility issues due to ovulation problems, endometriosis, fibroids, polyps, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), autoimmune disorders and damaged or blocked fallopian tubes. To be able to conceive and fulfil the dream of parenthood, many couples are undergoing fertility treatments even though these solutions can be physically and emotionally challenging for some individuals. Essential tips to navigate the emotional journey of fertility treatment without losing hope for parenthood (Image: iStock) This is because managing the journey of frequent medical appointments, emotional stress and fatigue while also handling work responsibilities may add that extra amount of stress, making it difficult to maintain a regular work schedule. Those undergoing or planning to undergo a fertility treatment may also face a lack of understanding or support from colleagues or employers, adding to their emotional burden. However, it is important to understand that you are not alone. Seeking support, both professionally and personally, can make a huge difference. Hope for parenthood: In an interview with TOI, Diana Divya Crasta, Chief Psychological Counsellor at Nova IVF Fertility, asserted that it is essential to follow these vital tips - One of the most overlooked yet vital aspects of coping with infertility is asking for help. Many people tend to isolate themselves, often feeling that others won't understand their experience or fearing judgment. This isolation can lead to emotional exhaustion and burnout but it's important to remember that reaching out doesn't show weakness it shows strength and self-awareness. The first step in handling this journey is accepting your situation. Self-awareness is crucial. Recognising your emotions, limitations and needs can guide you in making better decisions both at work and in your personal life. Another key factor is involving your family, as per your comfort. Open communication can help set expectations and avoid misunderstandings but keeping your loved ones in the loop gives them a chance to support you in truly helpful ways. Support in the workplace is equally important. While it might feel uncomfortable to talk to a colleague or manager, remember that without open communication, your workplace cannot be expected to understand your needs. You don't have to share every detail, but give them a general idea such as needing flexibility for appointments or dealing with side effects to be able to get support. If verbal conversations feel too difficult, written communication can be a useful alternative. Sending an email or message to explain your situation briefly can be a good idea. Don't hesitate to seek professional support. Talking to a psychologist, counsellor, or therapist can give you a safe space to express emotions, process your thoughts, and build coping strategies. When you ask for help from a friend, a partner, or a co-worker then be specific. Let them know exactly what would be helpful, whether it's attending a doctor's visit with you, adjusting your schedule at work, or simply being available to talk. Balancing work during fertility treatments is not easy but with the right support, communication and self-awareness, it can become a manageable journey.
India Today
5 days ago
- Health
- India Today
Saving the ‘Golden Hour': How STEMI ACT is helping India fight heart attack deaths
Heart attacks are killing more Indians than ever, and most don't get treatment in time. Over the past few years, news headlines and viral videos have told the same tragic story again and again: a man collapses mid-workout in a gym, a young professional faints while dancing at a wedding, an office-goer slumps at his desk — and never gets up. Across India, sudden heart attacks are claiming lives in homes, gyms, offices, and even on the cricket disease is now the number one killer in the country. The numbers are staggering: nearly three to four million people in India suffer a type of severe heart attack called ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) every year. This is a condition where a major artery in the heart is completely blocked, cutting off blood flow and threatening the survival of the heart to the Global Burden of Disease Study, cardiovascular diseases accounted for 28.1% of all deaths in India in 2016, up from 15.2% in 1990. But despite the scale of the crisis, there are simply not enough cardiologists, hospitals, or emergency systems in place to save lives, especially outside big cities in happens in a heart attack is that an artery in the heart gets blocked. A clot forms suddenly, like clotting in a wound, and stops blood flow. To save the heart muscle, we must restore blood flow immediately, either with a drug (thrombolysis) or emergency angioplasty (primary PCI).Primary PCI is the best option, but it's not available everywhere and certainly not 24/7 in India. The most effective window to save a life is known as the 'golden hour' - ideally within the first hour of in India, patients often take hours, even days, to get the right treatment.A MODEL THAT WORKS AND SAVES LIVESTo tackle this crisis, the STEMI ACT project, led by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in collaboration with AIIMS, is building hub-and-spoke networks in states across model is simple: train doctors and paramedics in smaller 'spoke' hospitals to quickly diagnose STEMI using ECG and give clot-busting drugs immediately, while staying in contact with cardiologists at larger 'hub' hospitals via their pilot, thrombolysis rates jumped from 30% to 75%, and drugs were given within 40 minutes of first contact in over 90% of cases — well within the golden hour.'If a pizza can be delivered in 30 minutes, we can deliver life-saving treatment in 30 minutes too,' says Dr. S Ramakrishnan, cardiologist at AIIMS Delhi and National Principal Investigator of the ICMR STEMI ACT project.'In a country like India, a pharmaco-invasive approach, thrombolysis first, followed by angioplasty, is often the best option. The critical message is that 'time is life' and 'time is muscle'. Opening the artery quickly saves more of the heart. Unfortunately, the average time patients take to reach a hospital in India is far beyond the golden hour,' he tells SYSTEM PROBLEM: IT'S NOT JUST THE PATIENTOne of the biggest reasons for delay is misdiagnosis and poor emergency response systems.'The delay is not only due to patients. People don't know it's a heart attack, they go to the same clinic for chest pain that they would for fever or a headache. These smaller hospitals are often not equipped for heart attacks,' Dr. Ramakrishnan pointed out that treating a heart attack is not just about having good doctors or cath labs: 'You need an entire chain that works: from first medical contact to treatment.' The time it takes to reach a hospital in India with respect to heart attacks. The result of these delays is deadly. 'The death rate from heart attacks is about 10%, compared to 3–3.5% in the West. Most angioplasties here happen more than 24 hours after the attack, when much of the heart muscle is already dead,' he PARAMEDICS TO BEAT THE CLOCKGlobally, paramedics are often trained to diagnose and start treatment for heart attacks in ambulances. In India, this wasn't allowed until recently due to rules that prevented nurses and paramedics from giving medicines without a doctor's Ramakrishnan's team found a workaround: 'We made the ambulance an extension of AIIMS — so when I, as a doctor, give the order remotely, it's as if it is happening in AIIMS itself. If anything goes wrong, I take responsibility.'This allowed paramedics to give life-saving thrombolysis on the spot, cutting through traffic delays and hospital SUCCESS STORIESSome states have already adopted this model with remarkable success. Tamil Nadu offers free primary PCI 24/7 for eligible patients, Kerala has highly efficient district-level systems, and Goa runs a strong STEMI STEMI ACT, Andhra Pradesh treated 4,500 patients in a year, Punjab is set to thrombolyse STEMI patients at primary health centres, and states like Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh are expanding the of May 2025, nearly 6,000 STEMI patients had been registered under the PUBLIC HEALTH VISION'STEMI ACT aligns with India's broader cardiovascular disease management goals and ICMR's public health strategy by focusing on timely and effective treatment of a critical form of heart attack, STEMI,' says Meenakshi Sharma, Program Officer (Cardiovascular Diseases and Neurology) at the project highlights reducing the burden of non-communicable diseases like CVD through evidence-based interventions and timely action."Specifically, STEMI ACT addresses the critical 'golden hour' for treatment, reducing mortality and long-term morbidity associated with heart attacks, thereby contributing to the national effort to lower CVD-related deaths,' she improving care pathways, the project also strengthens the overall healthcare system's ability to handle cardiovascular disease — a key part of ICMR's national INDIANS ARE AT HIGHER RISK, AND YOUNGERSouth Asians, including Indians, suffer heart attacks 5–10 years earlier than Western populations. The reasons are a deadly mix of high cholesterol, diabetes, hypertension, abdominal obesity, smoking, stress, poor diet, and a lack of exercise.A 2018 Lancet Global Health study found that cardiovascular disease caused over 2.1 million deaths in India in 2015, including 1.3 million deaths between ages 30–69. Alarmingly, heart disease mortality rates in rural India have now surpassed those in even with systems in place, one major challenge remains, getting frontline doctors in rural and semi-urban areas to confidently administer thrombolytic drugs free of cost. Time is life when it comes to getting heart attack treatment. 'Administering thrombolysis for STEMI within the recommended window, ideally within 30 minutes of first medical contact, is particularly challenging in rural and semi-urban settings,' Meenakshi Sharma there are several hurdles:Many MBBS doctors fear complications like bleeding or believe thrombolysis should only be done in higher workers worry about legal liability or backlash from the community if something goes this fear will be crucial to saving more MINUTE COUNTSIndia's heart attack crisis is not unsolvable, but it demands urgency, awareness, and STEMI ACT project shows that with training, technology, and teamwork, life-saving treatment can be delivered within 30 minutes, even in remote for that to happen everywhere, experts say states must ensure uninterrupted supply of clot-busting drugs, equip ambulances and hospitals with ECG machines and defibrillators, train paramedics and medical officers in rapid diagnosis and treatment and run public awareness campaigns so people recognise heart attack symptoms and seek help in a heart attack, time is not just money — time is life.- EndsMust Watch
Irish Examiner
27-06-2025
- Health
- Irish Examiner
Sobering shift: are Irish women changing their relationship to drink?
Are women waking up to the fact that booze may not be our best friend? That, actually, we have been in a long-term toxic relationship with an addictive, carcinogenic drug, one from which we may be slowly beginning to detach? The Irish Examiner Women's Health Survey, conducted by Ipsos B&A, found that women are increasingly taking control of their health and wellbeing, including their drinking. Park runs, saunas, and kombucha, rather than pubs, booze, and hangovers. When asked about their current consumption, the survey found that four in 10 women are consuming less alcohol or no alcohol, and 27% would like to decrease the amount of alcohol they drink (with 33% disagreeing). Another 27% have a drink at the end of the day to relax, although 59% disagree with this. More than half the 1,000 women surveyed, 55%, drink at least a few days every month, with 5% drinking daily. Almost one in five don't drink at all. As we become increasingly more health aware, what's interesting is how gendered our relationship with alcohol is, in part as a result of targeted marketing. Male drinking is perceived as a jolly group activity, social and celebratory, often involving sport; female drinking is presented almost as a mental health resource. Mother's little liquid helper. A sanity preserver, a coping strategy, a reward for all the ragged multi-tasking. Wine o'clock. And we're spoilt for choice: Pink gin, pink fizz, pink wine, pink spirits, pink cans of cocktails. 'For generations of women, booze is a loan shark, one on which millions of females have come to rely,' says Ann Dowsett Johnston, author of Drink: The Intimate Relationship Between Women and Alcohol. 'Over-tired, over-worked, over-anxious, booze is there to lend a hand when you need it most. And over time, when you don't. This is the truth, the painful trajectory of female drinking. 'In many ways, this reliance has to do with booze being the ultimate decompression tool: a culturally acceptable way to unwind from a perennially demanding schedule. Women go toe to toe with men in the workforce, outpace men in post-secondary education, and yet bear the lion's share of the emotional and domestic labour of running a family.' No wonder we drink. Add to this our deeply embedded cultural attachment to alcohol, and you can see how Irish women have ranked seventh heaviest drinkers in the world, according to 2016's Global Burden of Disease Study. No such thing as safe For women's health, there are no safe levels of alcohol consumption, as outlined in recent research published by Harvard Medical School, despite official 'safe' limits set out by the Irish Government, suggesting 11 standard drinks for women per week (it's 14 for men). Consultant hepatologist professor Orla Crosbie agrees that there's no such thing as 'safe' drinking for women : 'Even with moderate alcohol intake, the risks of cancer are increased.' She reminds us that women are more susceptible than men to the effects of alcohol, as we tend to be physically smaller and have more body fat. 'There may also be hormonal reasons too,' she says. 'There is a whole range of physical, mental, and social issues that come with excess alcohol intake. Even within the recommended limits, there's still risk, particularly of cancer. Alcohol can increase the risk of breast cancer, plus cancers of the throat, oesophagus and pancreas. There's also increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, seizures — alcohol lowers your seizure threshold — and of course liver disease.' In terms of mental health, Crosbie reminds us that while we use alcohol as a relaxant, 'in the short term you don't sleep as well, and long term it increases anxiety and depression'. It also has social impacts specific to women: 'There are no safe alcohol limits during pregnancy. And, as alcohol is a disinhibitor, it can lead to unwanted pregnancies.' For older women, 'the impacts can range from people having road traffic accidents to falls, especially as we get older. These can result in fractures or head injuries, which can be devastating.' It can also exacerbate osteoporosis and skin conditions. 'A lot of people who I see with alcohol issues have multi-vitamin deficiency,' she continues. 'If your diet is poor, you can lose muscle mass while gaining fat. And with liver disease, you can retain fluid. Sarcopenia [wasted weak muscle] has a huge impact on morbidity and mortality. 'It's possible to recover,' she adds. 'Overall, mental and physical health can be improved — the key things are nutrition, time and abstinence.' Sheila Gilheany, CEO of Alcohol Action Ireland, says the increased risk of cancer arises at 'relatively low levels' of consumption, one to two drinks per day. But even knowing about the negative health and social impact of alcohol, cutting down or stopping can be particularly hard in a culture where you have to justify not drinking. Where drinking is so normalised that not drinking is regarded with suspicion. 'Our drinking culture is very much set by the alcohol industry through its saturated marketing,' says Gilheany. In the past, alcohol marketing targeted men — if women were present, it was for decorative purposes. Remember the Harp advert, 'Sally O'Brien and the way she might look at you'? Nobody was trying to sell Harp to Sally. This has changed, as the drinks industry seeks to close the gender gap and boost its profits. 'The alcohol industry now deliberately targets women with dedicated marketing strategies,' says Gilheany. 'Traditionally, women have consumed less alcohol than men, and so the industry sees a significant market opportunity. Previously, women appeared in marketing campaigns more as an adjunct to men's drinking. 'Marketing strategies now include a range of products which are designed with women in mind — literally pinking the drinks,' says Gilheany. 'Other common themes are empowerment, sponsorship of women's sports, and aligning with women's issues. For example, she notes that multinational alcoholic beverage company Diageo has supported fundraisers for breast cancer research in the US. 'It's particularly ironic given that one in eight breast cancers is caused by alcohol.' The drinks industry, she adds, is strongly opposing the introduction of Ireland's cancer warning labelling on alcohol products. Pic: iStock Cultural changes However, the 0.0% drinks aisle seems to be expanding. Where once non-drinkers had a choice between fizzy water and fizzy pop, these days there's a plethora of grown-up, alcohol-free options that actually taste good, from beers to prosecco to de-alcoholised spirits. Is being able to join in without the prospect of a hangover a cause for celebration? Or does the expansion of the 0.0% aisle in the supermarket not quite reflect reality? '0.0% alcohol drinks make up a very small percentage of the overall alcohol market — around 1%,' says Gilheany. In 2023, 0.0% beer products made up around 2% of the beer market in Ireland and 0.0% spirits made up around 0.5% of the spirit market. 'While this market is growing, there is very little evidence of an alcohol substitution effect — people may be consuming these 0.0% products as substitutes for soft drinks, or in addition to alcohol products. 'For example, Heineken has had a campaign about drinking 0.0% beer after a gym session or at lunch time — occasions when alcohol might not have been drunk. 'Given how small the 0.0% spirits market is, it seems unlikely that this is a major contributor to any changes in women's drinking.' Cultural change takes time. There was a time when Coca-Cola contained actual cocaine, when laudanum was freely available, when snuff was fashionable, and when smoking was sexy. Until recently, we were told Guinness is good for you — including if you were a pregnant woman in need of iron — and that red wine is good for cardiovascular health. We know now that this is simply not the case. But given the collusive, collaborative nature of alcohol as a drug and its vast profitability, we remain reluctant to let go of it, and the industry remains reluctant to stop flogging it to men and women. Gilheany would like better labelling, similar to that on tobacco products, in an effort to pierce our denial. 'The minister for health should ensure that Ireland's alcohol labelling regulations are not delayed in any way from their start date in May 2026,' she says. 'These include warnings about alcohol and liver disease, cancer, and not drinking during pregnancy.' Alcohol is not a risk-free product. Nor is it essential for everyday life. It's not essential at all. That's a fact not lost on the four in 10 women in the Irish Examiner Women's Health Survey, who are consuming less alcohol or no alcohol at all.
Express Tribune
26-06-2025
- Health
- Express Tribune
Unvaccinated children in Pakistan rising
Pakistan has become the second largest country with the highest number of children with zero doses of vaccines in South Asia after India, a media report said, quoting a new study by British medical journal Lancet. The study found that Pakistan had 419,000 children falling into that zero-vaccine category. Pakistan is one of the last two countries in the world, alongside Afghanistan, where polio still remains endemic, despite global efforts to eradicate the virus. The Lancet said in a press release that a major new analysis from the Global Burden of Disease Study Vaccine Coverage Collaborators, said that despite progress of past 50 years, the last two decades have also been marked by stagnating childhood vaccination rates and wide variation in vaccine coverage. In 2019, it said, the WHO set ambitious goals for improving vaccine coverage globally through the Immunisation Agenda 2030. However, it added, the challenges exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic, leaving millions of children vulnerable to preventable diseases and death. The authors of the study, "Global, regional, and national trends in routine childhood vaccination coverage from 1980 to 2023 with forecasts to 2030", said that the latest estimates should be taken as a "clear warning" that 2030 target would not be achieved without "transformational improvements". The IA2030 goals included halving the number of 'zero-dose' children — estimated as children aged under 1 who have not received any dose of the diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine. The programme also aimed to achieve global coverage of 90% for each of the life-course vaccines.
