Latest news with #HepatitisB
India.com
21 hours ago
- Health
- India.com
Dipika Kakar Diagnosed With Stage 2 Liver Cancer: Crucial Signs You Cant Afford To Miss, What Are The Red Flags
New Delhi: Popular television actress Dipika Kakar recently shared an update about her health on Instagram. She has been diagnosed with Stage 2 Liver Cancer, leaving her family, close friends and fans heartbroken. Dr Srujan Kumar Dasyam, consultant medical gastroenterologist, hepatologist and therapeutic, KIMS Hospital Hyderabad shared his insights on understanding the causes and symptoms of liver cancer is so vital. Catching it early dramatically improves treatment success, a truth underscored by recent cases, including public figures. Liver cancer, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) — the most common type — typically emerges in livers already compromised. Experts at Johns Hopkins Medicine and Mayo Clinic consistently point to chronic viral hepatitis (Hepatitis B and C) as a primary culprit. These viruses spark ongoing inflammation, scarring (cirrhosis), and eventually, a higher risk of cancerous changes. But they're not the only risk factors: * Cirrhosis, no matter the cause: Whether it's from heavy alcohol use, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), or other conditions, cirrhosis creates a breeding ground for cancer. NAFLD, now more common with rising rates of obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes, is a growing concern. * Heavy drinking: Too much alcohol directly harms liver cells, leading to inflammation and scarring that can progress to cirrhosis and cancer. * Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes: These conditions are strongly linked to NAFLD, which can escalate to severe liver disease and, ultimately, cancer. * Certain inherited liver conditions: Diseases like hemochromatosis can also elevate your risk. * Exposure to specific toxins: For instance, aflatoxins, a mold byproduct found in improperly stored crops, are known carcinogens. The tricky part about liver cancer is its sneaky nature; symptoms often don't show up until the disease has advanced. This makes staying vigilant incredibly important. Here are some critical red flags, highlighted by Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins Medicine, that you should never brush aside: * Unexplained weight loss and poor appetite: Losing a significant amount of weight without trying, along with a lack of hunger, can be a major warning sign. * Upper abdominal pain or discomfort: A dull ache or discomfort, often in the upper right side of your belly, needs attention. * Persistent nausea and vomiting: If you're constantly feeling sick to your stomach or throwing up, it's a symptom to address. * Constant weakness and fatigue: Feeling unusually drained and lacking energy could signal an underlying issue. * Abdominal swelling (ascites): Fluid buildup in your belly causing noticeable distension is a serious indicator. * Jaundice: A yellowish tint to your skin and the whites of your eyes points to problems with liver function. * Changes in stool or urine color: If your stools become pale or chalky, or your urine turns unusually dark, it could indicate a bile duct issue. * Unrelenting itching: This can occur when bile salts accumulate under the skin. Liver Cancer in India: The Shifting Landscape In India, liver cancer presents a significant public health challenge, with its incidence showing an upward trend over the last decade. From 2004 to 2014, the overall hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) incidence rate in India saw an 11% increase, rising from an age-standardized rate of 3.0 to 3.3 per 100,000 persons. While still lower than in some global regions, this rise is a cause for concern. Demographically, liver cancer disproportionately affects males, with a male-to-female ratio often cited around 4:1. The age of presentation typically varies, but a significant number of cases are seen between 40 to 70 years, with some studies indicating peaks around 40-55 years and again above 60 years. This bimodal distribution is often linked to the timing of hepatitis B infection acquisition. While Hepatitis B remains a dominant cause, the increasing prevalence of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), driven by rising rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes in the Indian population, is swiftly becoming a major contributor to the climbing HCC incidence. This demographic shift highlights the urgent need for public health strategies focusing on lifestyle interventions to prevent NAFLD. What Patients Need to Know: Spotting Red Flags and Getting Screened If you notice any of these persistent symptoms, particularly if you have known risk factors for liver disease, don't wait — reach out to your doctor immediately. Getting evaluated quickly is essential. Your doctor might order blood tests (including liver function tests and AFP, a tumor marker), imaging like ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs, and in some cases, a liver biopsy for a definitive diagnosis. If you have chronic Hepatitis B or C, or cirrhosis, talk to your doctor about regular screening protocols. The Horizon of Hope: Advances in Liver Cancer Research While the path to managing liver cancer can be challenging, groundbreaking research is continually offering new hope. Scientists are making strides in several key areas: * Immunotherapy and Combination Treatments: A major breakthrough has been the integration of immunotherapy drugs with targeted therapies or localized treatments like transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). These combinations are showing significant promise in extending lives and improving outcomes, even in advanced stages of the disease, by harnessing the body's own immune system to fight cancer. * Non-Invasive Therapies: Innovative procedures like Histotripsy are emerging, using focused ultrasound waves to destroy tumors without the need for incisions, leading to fewer complications and faster recovery for eligible patients. * Smarter Diagnostics: Beyond traditional imaging, new blood tests (some combining multiple markers with demographic data) are being developed to detect liver cancer earlier, even before symptoms appear. The use of liquid biopsies, which analyze cancer cells or DNA fragments in blood, offers a less invasive way to diagnose and monitor the disease. Furthermore, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being integrated into imaging to enhance the accuracy and speed of detection. These advancements represent a dynamic shift in how liver cancer is treated and diagnosed, offering more personalized and effective options for patients. Boosting Your Liver Health: Practical Advice for Everyone Beyond early detection, actively protecting your liver is a powerful preventive step. Here's what you can do: * Go easy on alcohol, or cut it out entirely: This is fundamental to preventing liver damage. * Maintain a healthy weight: Combat obesity with a balanced diet and regular exercise to prevent and manage NAFLD. * Eat smart: Load up on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats. * Get vaccinated: Make sure you're protected against Hepatitis A and B if you're at risk. * Practice safe habits: Use safe sex practices and avoid shared needles to significantly lower your risk of Hepatitis B and C. * Be careful with meds and supplements: Always follow dosage instructions and tell your doctor about everything you're taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, as some can harm your liver. * Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps your liver with its crucial detoxification work. By understanding what causes liver cancer, recognizing its warning signs, and taking proactive steps for liver health, we can all contribute to reducing its impact and embracing a future with more effective treatments.
Time of India
a day ago
- Health
- Time of India
CM inaugurates three healthcare facilities at Lok Nayak Hospital
New Delhi: Chief minister Rekha Gupta inaugurated three new facilities at Lok Nayak Hospital on Thursday. The newly-launched facilities constitutes a medical genetic ward, a lactation management unit (LMU), and a nucleic acid amplification testing (NAT) lab. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Speaking at the event, Gupta said the additions reflect the govt's commitment to delivering advanced, accessible, and equitable healthcare services across the capital. The Medical Genetics Department, a first of its kind in Delhi govt hospitals, joins the elite group of NMC colleges' Centre for Excellence for Rare Genetic Disorder. This ward will offer comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and counselling for rare genetic disorders, including prenatal care. The department's services span from prenatal to geriatric care, Gupta said. Regarding the breastfeeding management unit (LMU), she explained it focuses on premature, underweight, and critically ill newborns. The unit offers breastfeeding guidance, milk storage facilities, hospital-grade breast pumps, and 'Donor Human Milk' services to reduce infection risks in newborns. Discussing the NAT lab, she highlighted that this technology enables early detection of HIV, Hepatitis B, and C in blood samples. This first-of-its-kind facility in Delhi govt hospitals reduces testing time from 45 days to two days, potentially saving numerous lives annually by enhancing blood donation reliability and transfusion safety. The chief minister highlighted the govt's continuous efforts to enhance Delhi's healthcare system. She stressed on the importance of providing quality, accessible, and timely health services to every resident, regardless of age, group, or region, stating that a healthy Delhi forms the basis of a developed Delhi. She announced plans to exceed WHO's recommended two beds per 1,000 people standard, targeting three beds per 1,000 persons within five years.
Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Ludhiana: Two kids of COVID victim test +ve, under quarantine, say officials
Two children, a son and a daughter, of the 40-year-old Uttar Pradesh native who succumbed to COVID-19 on Wednesday in Chandigarh, have tested positive for coronavirus infection, health officials confirmed today. The deceased, a worker in Ludhiana, was admitted to ESI Hospital on May 23 with breathlessness before being referred to Chandigarh on May 26 as his condition worsened. Following the man's death, the health department initiated contact tracing and testing. Of the five family members tested, the deceased's wife and two other children returned negative results. Additionally, ten individuals who came into contact with the patient at ESI Hospital have also tested negative for the infection. Health officials noted that the two infected children are asymptomatic and have been placed in quarantine. Civil surgeon Dr Ramandeep Kaur emphasised that the department is fully equipped and prepared to handle any potential health challenges, including those related to COVID-19. 'Our teams are on high alert, and we have robust protocols in place to tackle any conditions that may arise, including monitoring for new variants and ensuring adequate testing and isolation facilities,' she said. Dr Kaur urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with health officials if contacted, reiterating that 'there is no need for panic.' She also noted the current strains of the virus were mild and asked people to exercise standard hygienic practices to stay safe. 'The current COVID-19 strains are generally reported to be mild, and our hospitals are well-prepared. We urge people to continue maintaining good hygiene practices, wear masks in crowded areas, and consult healthcare professionals for any health concerns or COVID-like symptoms,' she said. It was also disclosed that the deceased had a pre-existing condition, having been hospitalized last year for a Hepatitis B infection. The RT PCR lab at the Civil Hospital has not reported any recent surge in COVID-19 testing, with officials stating that the number of people coming for tests remains consistent with usual levels.
The Hindu
a day ago
- Health
- The Hindu
City's first medical genetics dept. set up in LNJP Hospital; CM inaugurates unit
Delhi's first Medical Genetics department and the fourth such unit in the country has been set up in the Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (LNJP) Hospital. While inaugurating the department on Thursday, CM Rekha Gupta said, 'There are lakhs of parents scrambling to save their children who are born with genetic disorders. They do not know where to go. This department will treat those children who are born with such disorders.' Ms. Gupta also inaugurated a Lactation Management Unit (LMU), and Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAT) Lab in the hospital. Regarding the Lactation Management Unit (LMU), she said that the unit is designed to serve preterm, low-birth-weight, and critically ill new-borns. It will offer breastfeeding counselling, safe milk collection and storage, and hospital-grade breast pumps for mothers. 'Our goal is to ensure accessible, high-quality, and timely medical services for every citizen—regardless of age, background, or region. A healthy Delhi is the foundation of a developed Delhi. With this vision, three highly advanced health services have been launched, setting a new milestone in the city's medical infrastructure,' Ms. Gupta said. This is the first Delhi government hospital to have a NAT Lab, she said, adding that screening reports, which used to take 45 days, will be available within two days here. The NAT is a highly sensitive diagnostic method capable of detecting viral infections like HIV, Hepatitis B, and C at an early stage. The CM also criticised the state of the healthcare infrastructure that the BJP government inherited from previous government, calling it 'deeply concerning.' She added that while the World Health Organisation recommends a minimum of two beds per 1,000 population, not even one bed per 1,000 citizens is available in the Capital. She said that the Delhi government aims to ensure at least three beds per 1,000 people within the next five years.
Time of India
a day ago
- Health
- Time of India
Punjab records two Covid cases, says Health Minister Balbir Singh
Patiala: Two active COVID-19 cases were reported in Punjab on Wednesday, according to Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh . One patient is from Yamunanagar, and the other is from Ambala. Both are undergoing treatment. Earlier, a 40-year-old patient on Wednesday succumbed to the COVID-19 virus at the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Sector 32 in Chandigarh, said an official. Speaking to on Wednesday, Singh said, "This is the first patient who was admitted to Sector 32 after being referred from Ludhiana. There are two other patients in the state. One patient is in Fortis Hospital, who is from Yamunanagar, another is in Ferozepur, who hails from Ambala and works in Gurugram. He had come to his relatives' house..." Giving details about the patient who died, Singh said, "The patient who has died had comorbidities in addition to being COVID positive... He was also suffering from Hepatitis B". The Minister added that the state government is in touch the Union government and following WHO guidelines. "I have reviewed the medical facilities in the Ludhiana district, and 200 beds have been prepared in the medical college... People with comorbidities need to take precautions, normal people can go about without any worry... We are in touch with the centre and are also following WHO guidelines..." the Health Minister told ANI. Earlier today, Chandigarh GMCH Medical Superintendent GP Thami confirmed the patient's death, stating that the patient was referred from Ludhiana and was hospitalised two days ago with severe respiratory issues. The patient tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday and succumbed to the illness in the early hours of Wednesday. When asked about the hospital's preparedness, the official stated that they have made an isolation ward. "Yesterday, a patient came. He was diagnosed with COVID. Today, he died at around 4 in the was 40 years old and belonged to Firozabad, UP. He was suffering from some respiratory problem and fever, then he was referred here from Ludhiana... We have made an isolation ward. We suspect more people to come here suffering from variant has not been identified now, it is preliminary," Thami said. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has confirmed that while COVID-19 cases were reported again in parts of the country, the current variants in circulation were showing mild symptoms similar to the Omicron strain. According to the Chief Executive Officer of Dr Dangs Lab, Arjun Dang, the rising cases of Covid-19 belonged to the sub-lineage of the Omicron virus. Dang further stated that in states like Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, the variants that were named as 'Variants under Monitoring' were of types LF7 and NV181 and were more transmissible. "We must understand that the current spreading variants are again a sublineage of the Omicron virus. Additionally, in states like Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, we have certain other sub-variants that have been named Variants Under Monitoring, and these are basically of two types, LF7 and NV181. Currently, the cases that we are seeing are more transmissible. They can infect people easily, but again, from the severity perspective, till now, we have not seen any severe cases," Dang told ANI. On Monday, India reported 1,009 active COVID-19 cases in the country on Monday, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. As per the Health Ministry, India's COVID-19 update showed a total of 1009 active cases, with 752 new cases recently confirmed. According to the government data, Kerala currently tops the chart with the highest number of active cases at 430. Other states with notable case counts include Maharashtra (209), Delhi (104), Gujarat (83), and Karnataka (47).
