Latest news with #HOD
India Gazette
5 days ago
- Health
- India Gazette
SPF every day keeps the damage away: Doctors say sun protection is not optional
New Delhi [India], May 27 (ANI): As the sun beats down stronger each year and the tan lines get deeper, dermatologists across the globe are urging one common thing this World Sunscreen Day: make sun protection a non-negotiable part of your life. Whether you are basking under a beach umbrella or just walking to your local store, UV radiation does not discriminate. Experts warn that ignoring your daily sunscreen routine can do more than dull your glow, it could permanently damage your skin and raise your risk of cancer. 'Sun protection isn't just a cosmetic concern, it's a critical part of long-term skin health,' said Dr Mandeep Singh, HOD, Plastic Dermatologist and Cosmetic Surgery at Paras Health, Gurugram. While speaking to ANI, Dr Singh emphasises that UV rays are relentless; they can penetrate clouds, car windows, and even office glass. 'A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, applied generously and re-applied every two to three hours, is your skin's best defence,' he advised, adding, 'Remember, prevention is always better than cure.' Ultraviolet (UV) radiation might be invisible, but its damage is not. From sunburns to pigmentation and fine lines to deadly skin cancers, the sun's rays are responsible for some of the most preventable skin issues, often showing up years later. 'Prolonged exposure to UV radiation leads to fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and uneven skin tone, often much earlier than expected,' said Dr Amiteshwar Singh, Consultant Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgeon at Livasa Hospital, Amritsar. He stressed that these signs of ageing begin beneath the surface, long before they become visible. 'Investing in your skin today ensures it stays strong, smooth, and radiant for years to come,' he said. Yes, you still need sunscreen indoors and on cloudy days. 'The dangerous rays of the sun can pass through clouds and even bounce back off surfaces such as water, sand, and concrete, so protection is needed all year,' said Dr Narander Singla, Lead Consultant - Internal Medicine at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi. Speaking to ANI, Dr Singla warned that sun damage is cumulative, meaning every minute spent unprotected under UV exposure adds up over the years. 'What's a temporary tan today can add up to serious skin damage tomorrow,' he noted. He recommends a minimum of SPF 30 for daily wear, and SPF 50 or higher for outdoor exposure. Add to that protective gear, sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm), and you have got a winning shield against UV harm. From glowing skin to disease prevention, sunscreen offers far more than cosmetic benefits. It is an investment in your skin's future and your overall health. As we observe World Sunscreen Day, doctors agree on one clear message: don't step out without your SPF armour. And even when you are staying in, make that bottle of sunscreen your everyday companion. So go ahead and make sun protection your daily ritual because protecting your skin today is the best gift you can give your future self. (ANI)
Mint
5 days ago
- Health
- Mint
SPF every day keeps the damage away: Doctors say sun protection is not optional
New Delhi [India], May 27 (ANI): As the sun beats down stronger each year and the tan lines get deeper, dermatologists across the globe are urging one common thing this World Sunscreen Day: make sun protection a non-negotiable part of your life. Whether you are basking under a beach umbrella or just walking to your local store, UV radiation does not discriminate. Experts warn that ignoring your daily sunscreen routine can do more than dull your glow, it could permanently damage your skin and raise your risk of cancer. "Sun protection isn't just a cosmetic concern, it's a critical part of long-term skin health," said Dr Mandeep Singh, HOD, Plastic Dermatologist and Cosmetic Surgery at Paras Health, Gurugram. While speaking to ANI, Dr Singh emphasises that UV rays are relentless; they can penetrate clouds, car windows, and even office glass. "A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, applied generously and re-applied every two to three hours, is your skin's best defence," he advised, adding, "Remember, prevention is always better than cure." Ultraviolet (UV) radiation might be invisible, but its damage is not. From sunburns to pigmentation and fine lines to deadly skin cancers, the sun's rays are responsible for some of the most preventable skin issues, often showing up years later. "Prolonged exposure to UV radiation leads to fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and uneven skin tone, often much earlier than expected," said Dr Amiteshwar Singh, Consultant Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgeon at Livasa Hospital, Amritsar. He stressed that these signs of ageing begin beneath the surface, long before they become visible. "Investing in your skin today ensures it stays strong, smooth, and radiant for years to come," he said. Yes, you still need sunscreen indoors and on cloudy days. "The dangerous rays of the sun can pass through clouds and even bounce back off surfaces such as water, sand, and concrete, so protection is needed all year," said Dr Narander Singla, Lead Consultant - Internal Medicine at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi. Speaking to ANI, Dr Singla warned that sun damage is cumulative, meaning every minute spent unprotected under UV exposure adds up over the years. "What's a temporary tan today can add up to serious skin damage tomorrow," he noted. He recommends a minimum of SPF 30 for daily wear, and SPF 50 or higher for outdoor exposure. Add to that protective gear, sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm), and you have got a winning shield against UV harm. From glowing skin to disease prevention, sunscreen offers far more than cosmetic benefits. It is an investment in your skin's future and your overall health. As we observe World Sunscreen Day, doctors agree on one clear message: don't step out without your SPF armour. And even when you are staying in, make that bottle of sunscreen your everyday companion. So go ahead and make sun protection your daily ritual because protecting your skin today is the best gift you can give your future self. (ANI)
Indian Express
10-05-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Univ sociology HOD denies allegations of caste discrimination and mental harassment made by protesting students
Written by Ashutosh Sahoo, A group of 20-30 students from the sociology department held a protest inside the department building at the Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) against Head of Department Professor Shruti Tambe, on Friday. The students have alleged 'caste based discrimination' and mental harassment by Tambe. However Tambe has firmly denied the allegations of caste discrimination, and said that she trusts the administrative process to resolve the issues with the students amicably. A separate group of students have also come out in support of Tambe. In a meeting with the HOD and faculty members on March 29, the students said that they raised issues of discriminatory remarks, irregular attendance marking, and mental harassment, and other issues. A document recording minutes of this meeting contained the signatures of 50 students. However some students now say that their signature was obtained improperly and that they do not support the contents of the document. Subsequently on April 12, the group of students sent a written complaint to the Vice-Chancellor Suresh Gosavi spelling out their complaints. The students say that their concerns have not been addressed despite this. Speaking with The Indian Express, Abhijeet Vaidye, a second-year Master's student, said, 'HoD Dr Shruti Tambe has been making repeated taunts during lectures and outside the classroom about student's attire, personal circumstances, and one's background, leading to mental distress and harassment as we experienced it being targeted at students from certain so called backward communities. The HoD used terms like 'Chappri' against a group of students, which is really disrespectful and has affected our mental health.' Denying this allegation, Tambe said, 'I have never ever used anything like that. Not even in my dreams. Forget about when I am in my senses. And 34 years I have been teaching. I have been writing, reading the Phule Ambedkarite Shahu tradition. I have never ever used such language to demean anyone.' She further added, 'The information of the students' sit-in has come to my notice. I have always tried to conduct myself in good faith and with empathy. I have trust in the administrative process and the student community and I believe that the issues will be resolved amicably very soon.' Vice Chancellor Gosavi told The Indian Express that he was in Bangalore on the day of the protest and would address the issue after returning to Pune. A student who said that his signature was obtained improperly backed Tambe and said, 'I have not heard the alleged discriminatory statements being made or even heard from others that they were made by the HOD. I would have supported the protestors if I knew anything like this had happened. We had met with the HOD for a different issue in the department, but these unrelated issues were inserted in the document after we signed it.'
Hindustan Times
07-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Is asthma infectious? Doctor reveals 7 surprising facts about asthma you may not know
World Asthma Day 2025 was on May 6. World Asthma Day is observed annually on the first Tuesday of May to raise awareness about asthma and highlight the need for continued research toward a cure. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. The condition often worsens during the spring and summer months, making it particularly challenging for those affected to manage their symptoms during this time. Also read | Asthma Day 2025: 6 foods that can trigger asthma; doctor shares what to eat instead Asthma is a condition marked by coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.(Shutterstock) However, with the right knowledge about the condition, it is possible to manage the symptoms and avoid the triggers. In an interview with HT lifestyle, Dr Sandeep Nair, principal director and HOD - chest and respiratory diseases at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital shared 7 surprising facts about asthma. 1. Asthma is not just about breathlessness Continuous cough predominantly dry though occasionally accompanied with minimum expectoration could be a symptom of cough variant asthma which may go undiagnosed as patient do not complain about breathlessness. Not all undiagnosed cough is due to asthma but a possibility of cough variant asthma should be kept in mind after ruling out common causes of cough. 2. Asthma symptoms can develop in adulthood Though asthma symptoms appear in childhood but sometimes the symptoms appear in adulthood. Any adult can develop asthma but there are things that may lead people to develop asthma like allergies, smoking, obesity, stress or pollution. 3. Inhalers are a must treatment for asthma Inhalers remain the mainstay treatment for asthma. Some patients think that they are reserved for severe asthma or are habit forming and contains very heavy dose but truth is that it is the first line treatment for asthma and have minimum side effects as they act on the target (lungs) and are not absorbed in significant quantity in body to cause any harm. 4. Asthma is non-infectious Asthma is not an infectious disease and sitting next to asthmatics will not cause any symptoms in you. It may run in the family as it can be inherited but one does not pass to another person who comes in close contact. Also read | 8 common asthma triggers: Doctor shares tips to avoid them Asthma symptoms can be managed by avoiding triggers.(Twitter/SAallergy) 5. Asthma can disappear and recur Asthma symptoms may come and go intermittently. Just when you start thinking that you are cured of the disease, the symptoms may reappear. The asthma medication consists of rescue medicines which help in relieving your symptoms and controller which prevent from deterioration of the disease. 6. Asthma patients can continue physical exercise Asthma do not stop you for exercising or playing any sports or games including swimming. In fact, exercise help in fighting asthma and keep you fit and healthy. If patients continue taking medicines regularly, they can play any sport. 7. Asthma does not have a cure, but can be managed Though there is no cure for asthma, but it can be effectively managed through medication, avoiding triggers, and following a personalised action plan. One can live a healthy life just like any other individual and avoid exacerbation if they take their medication regularly. Also read | Managing seasonal allergies: Doctor shares the ultimate guide for asthma patients Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
IOL News
06-05-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Shock revelations show half of Ekurhuleni top officials are underqualified
Accusations are mounting against Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Dr. Nkosindiphile Xhakaza over his perceived inaction in the wake of damning revelations surrounding the irregular appointment of Mr. Phakamile Mbengashe as the Head of Department (HOD) for Communications, Marketing and Tourism. Accusations are mounting against Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Dr. Nkosindiphile Xhakaza over his perceived inaction in the wake of damning revelations surrounding the irregular appointment of Mr. Phakamile Mbengashe as the Head of Department (HOD) for Communications, Marketing and Tourism. A source in the Human Resources Department of the Ekurhuleni Municipality has revealed to The Star that 50% of middle to senior management at the municipality is underqualified or does not meet standard requirements. Accusations are also mounting against Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Dr. Nkosindiphile Xhakaza over his perceived inaction in the wake of damning revelations surrounding the irregular appointment of Mr. Phakamile Mbengashe as the Head of Department (HOD) for Communications, Marketing and Tourism. Despite widespread allegations and formal challenges regarding Mbengashe's academic credentials and experience, the mayor has yet to initiate or endorse any investigation — a silence that critics interpret as implicit protection of the embattled official. The uMkhonto Wesizwe (MK) Party, in a strongly worded media statement, called for a full-scale investigation into what it terms an ''unscrupulous" and "politically influenced" appointment. 'The appointment of Mr. Mbengashe appears to be a result of his close ties to influential politicians within and outside the city,' said Commissar Oupa 'Sosco' Mokoena, regional coordinator of the MK Party. 'It is an affront to Black excellence to reward friends and cronies in such a manner.' At the centre of the controversy is Mbengashe's academic record, which allegedly lacks the legally required undergraduate degree for the position — a requirement under South Africa's Local Government: Municipal Systems Act and Regulations on the Appointment of Senior Managers. A confidential letter from the Municipal Executive and Corporate Staff Union (MECSU), addressed to city officials, specifically questions Mbengashe's qualification, claiming, 'He is allegedly holding a Master's Degree from the University of Salford in the UK, but does not possess a Bachelor's Degree or equivalent NQF Level 7 qualification.' The letter, signed by General Secretary Vukile Mlungwana, demands verification and threatens external legal action if ignored. Independent reports have echoed these concerns. A story published by The Star revealed that Mbengashe is among a growing list of politically connected figures allegedly exploiting a loophole involving foreign qualifications. According to the report, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) has often recognised such international postgraduate qualifications without adequate scrutiny of the prerequisite undergraduate credentials. Adding further fuel to the controversy, a leaked council report shows that out of 288 applicants for the Communications HOD position, Mbengashe, who allegedly lacks both proper qualifications and requisite managerial experience, emerged as the preferred candidate. The Democratic Alliance (DA) and Independent Citizens Movement (ICM) councillors have questioned how the vetting panel could have overlooked these glaring discrepancies. Dr. Joe Mojapelo, ICM leader and councillor in Ekurhuleni, has written to Gauteng MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Jacob Mamabolo, calling for urgent intervention. 'It is clear the process was pushed through without proper verification or transparency,' said Mojapelo. 'This is not just a flawed appointment — it is a potential violation of municipal law.' Sources within the City of Ekurhuleni claim the situation is symptomatic of a broader problem. 'At least 50% of senior staff in the municipality are underqualified or were irregularly appointed,' one insider alleged. 'These are not isolated incidents; it's a systemic governance issue.' Meanwhile, MEC Mamabolo has formally requested a Regulation 17 Report detailing the appointment process and addressing all allegations. His office has indicated that if the report confirms procedural flaws or qualifications fraud, he may invoke Section 56(6) of the Municipal Systems Act to declare the appointment invalid. Yet, Mayor Xhakaza remains silent. Requests for comment have gone unanswered, and no internal probe has been announced. Critics suggest that his reluctance to act may be rooted in political loyalties or fears of wider fallout if the appointment is reversed. With the Regulation 17 Report due and public pressure mounting, Ekurhuleni faces a pivotal moment. Whether the city will uphold transparency and the rule of law, or continue to shield politically favoured individuals, remains to be seen. 'This isn't just about one man,' said Mokoena. 'It's about the credibility of our entire municipal administration.' This is a developing story.
