Latest news with #ISAR
India Today
15-05-2025
- Health
- India Today
Obesity in Indian women is a growing crisis: Nearly half over 35 are overweight
Indian women are increasingly being affected by obesity, and this is starting early in life, doctors warn. In fact, recent data shows that more than half of women aged 18-30 are already overweight, a trend that experts say demands immediate public health attention.A new consensus statement published in the Indian Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Research has raised concerns about the rising burden of obesity among women, especially in the reproductive age group. Led by Dr. Nandita Palshetkar from Mumbai's Lilavati Hospital, along with 11 other specialists from across India, the study puts forward clear clinical recommendations on how doctors should assess and manage obesity among Indian women, with specific guidance for those planning a paper is an initiative of the Indian Society of Assisted Reproduction (ISAR), and draws from over 75 studies, including government surveys and global reports. What the numbers sayAccording to the report, the problem of obesity is not limited to urban or affluent women. In fact, the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019–21) found that 33.2% of urban women and 19.7% of rural women in India are overweight or obese (defined as BMI of more than 25 kg/m2).The numbers climb sharply with age. A study of over 6.4 lakh Indian women found that nearly 49% of those aged 35-49 were overweight or obese. In the 18–30 age group, another study revealed that more than half, 52.4%, were already obese. According to the report, the problem of obesity is not limited to urban or affluent women. () advertisement"The trends are very clear. Obesity is increasing and affecting younger women, including those planning pregnancies. We need urgent action, at the clinical and public health level," the paper PCOS to stillbirths, how obesity affects women's healthObesity in women is linked to a wide range of health complications, some of them unique to women. These include:Irregular periods and infertilityPolycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)Gestational diabetes and high blood pressure during pregnancyHigher risk of miscarriages and stillbirthsUrinary incontinence and uterine fibroidsIncreased risk of C-sections and birth complicationsDoctors say these effects begin early, from puberty, and continue through menopause. Obesity also worsens conditions like depression, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women. The consensus calls on gynaecologists and primary care physicians to routinely assess BMI, waist circumference, and lifestyle factors in women during check-ups — especially if they are planning to losing 5–10% body weight can make a big differenceThe study highlights that even a modest weight loss, as little as 5–10% of body weight, can improve hormonal balance, restore ovulation, reduce insulin resistance, and increase chances of natural conception or IVF with PCOS who lost weight reported:Better menstrual regularityImproved ovulationHigher live birth ratesLower miscarriage risk The study highlights that even a modest weight loss, as little as 5–10% of body weight, can improve hormonal balance. () In addition, weight loss improves urinary incontinence, mobility, and mental health, enhancing overall quality of life.'By managing obesity early, ideally before conception, we can significantly improve fertility outcomes and reduce risks during pregnancy. Our aim is to help women make small, sustainable lifestyle changes, which can go a long way in protecting maternal, fetal and child health,' said lead author Dr Nanditha Palshetkar, Medical Director, Bloom IVF Lilavati works: Diet, exercise, therapy, and when needed, medicinesThe expert panel recommends that lifestyle changes must be the first line of treatment. This includes:Reducing sugar and saturated fatsIncreasing fiber and protein intakeAt least 150 minutes of exercise per weekMindfulness, portion control, and sleep hygieneFor some women, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help address emotional eating and support weight lifestyle changes alone are not enough, doctors may consider medication for women with BMI more than 27 and a related health condition, or BMI more than Orlistat is available in India. Semaglutide (2.4 mg) has been approved by the drug regulator but is not yet available in the Indian market. These drugs have shown significant weight-loss effects in clinical trials, alongside improvements in hormone levels and fertility parameters. However, they are not recommended during pregnancy or surgery is an option, but only for someFor women with BMI more than 35 or those with serious health complications, bariatric surgery may be considered. The procedure has been linked to rapid weight loss, improved fertility, better hormone levels, and reduced risks during pregnancy. However, conception is advised only after a 12-month waiting period post-surgery. When lifestyle changes alone are not enough, doctors may consider medication for women. () What should pregnant women do?Doctors warn against using weight-loss medications during pregnancy. Instead, they recommend lifestyle interventions, like diet and exercise, as the safest and most effective way to prevent gain during pregnancy should be monitored and tailored to BMI categories, while postpartum weight management should involve structured programs aiming for a weight loss of 0.5 kg/week."Breastfeeding should be encouraged, and anti-obesity medications may only be considered after cessation of breastfeeding. For perimenopausal and post-menopausal women, evaluating muscle mass, bone health, and screening for metabolic disorders is crucial before implementing weight management strategies,' said study co-author Dr. Piya Ballani Thakkar, an endocrinologist specialising in diabetes and metabolic consensus also offers trimester-specific weight gain guidelines and emphasises postpartum weight management through breastfeeding support, structured diet, and exercise — once breastfeeding stops, medications can be reconsidered under medical among Indian women is not just about body image, it's a serious medical issue with long-term health consequences. The ISAR-led recommendations provide a much-needed roadmap for doctors to screen, manage, and treat obesity more InMust Watch
Time of India
25-04-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Steroids, Sperm Count Decline, and Stigma: India Faces Silent Male Infertility Crisis
New Delhi: Male infertility is quietly escalating into a public health crisis in India, yet remains among the most under-discussed medical conditions in the country. With traditional masculinity still tied to physical strength and social expectations, the subject of male reproductive health is too often buried under layers of stigma, misinformation, and silence. Startling data reveal that only 25 per cent of Indian men meet normal semen parameters—meaning 75 percent face issues related to semen volume, sperm count, motility, or morphology. Male-factor infertility accounts for nearly 40–50 percent of all infertility cases in India, supported by studies from the Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction (ISAR) and National Medical Journal of India. These findings emphasise the critical need for a shift in focus towards male infertility, as it is a significant contributor to the overall infertility rates in the country. This concern takes on added urgency as the country observes National Infertility Awareness Week , aiming to shed light on the challenges of infertility and the importance of inclusive reproductive health conversations. 'The conversation around infertility still centers heavily on women. We urgently need a shift toward inclusivity and science-backed awareness,' says Dr. Prachi Benara, Senior Consultant and Centre Head at Birla Fertility & IVF. "One of the most alarming contributors to declining sperm health is the unregulated use of anabolic steroids and gym supplements. In the race for rapid muscle gains and social media-worthy physiques, many young men are unknowingly compromising their fertility," Dr. Benara added. Even a few months of steroid use can bring sperm count down to zero. 'Most over-the-counter supplements in India don't disclose their ingredients properly. Many men fall prey to quack advice or misguided gym trainers,' she warns. Worse, some men unknowingly take testosterone injections, which can shut down natural sperm production. Beyond supplements, several other lifestyle factors are contributing to the decline: tobacco use, poor diet, high BMI, sedentary work, and increased age. While women face a biological clock, men experience a more gradual reproductive decline called andropause. Studies show sperm quality begins to significantly deteriorate after the age of 40—a challenge for many urban men delaying parenthood. Data Deficit and Diagnostic Gaps Despite the growing threat, India lacks comprehensive data on steroid-linked infertility. Most men don't disclose supplement use unless directly asked, making it difficult to trace the root cause of fertility issues. However, experts believe early testing—especially semen analysis—is crucial. Clinicians assess four key parameters: volume, count, motility, and morphology. Ideally, a sample should have more than 1 ml of semen, over 16 million sperm/ml, 40 percent motility, and a morphology score above four percent. Yet, only 1 in 4 Indian men meets these benchmarks. The good news: recovery is possible. If steroid use is discontinued within a year, many men show significant improvement in sperm quality within six months, she stated. Another hidden aspect of male infertility is the issue of non-consummation of marriage, often due to psychological conditions like vaginismus or erectile dysfunction. 'Up to 90 percent of such cases improve with conversation and counseling alone,' Dr. Benara adds. At Birla Fertility, initial consultations last up to an hour and prioritize mental health and emotional well-being before recommending diagnostics or IVF. 'Many couples don't need IVF right away. What they need first is someone to listen—without judgment,' she says. With India's Total Fertility Rate (TFR) dipping to 1.99—below the replacement level—the implications of untreated infertility loom large. However, the rise of technology and affordability is bringing hope. Today, an IVF cycle costs ₹1.7–1.75 lakh, down from ₹2.5–3 lakh, and EMI options are widely available. Some employers have even started including IVF in insurance plans. Advanced technologies like AI-assisted lab procedures and microfluidics are enhancing outcomes. While CRISPR and genome editing are not yet used in Indian IVF, DNA-quality assessments are emerging as the next frontier. The Road Ahead: Replace Silence with Science India is at a crossroads. Without proactive steps, the socio-economic fallout of untreated infertility could mirror aging societies like Japan and South Korea. Between the ages of 35 and 50—coincidentally peak career years—many Indians are also at peak fertility risk. Without proactive steps, the socio-economic fallout of untreated infertility could mirror aging societies like Japan and South Korea. Between the ages of 35 and 50—coincidentally peak career years—many Indians are also at peak fertility risk. 'This conversation needs to evolve—from one filled with fear and shame to one grounded in empathy, education, and empowerment,' says Dr. Benara. The stigma must end. Science must speak. And the silence around male infertility must finally be broken.
Yahoo
09-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Firefighters train Malawians to prepare for floods
Three firefighters from the London Fire Brigade have helped train first responders in Malawi how to be better prepared to tackle flood emergencies. The trio's deployment comes after Tropical Storm Freddy ripped through southern Africa, killing hundreds of people, two years ago. About 60 Malawian delegates spent a fortnight learning skills, including how to treat people who have been in the water for a long time, search and rescue response coordination and how to perform water rescues from a power boat. Ian Simpson, the brigade's International Search and Rescue (ISAR) coordinator, said he was always ready to share his skills "to help save lives". The station commander was part of the UK's ISAR team that flew out to Malawi in March 2023 to help with the cyclone rescue efforts. He said he felt he had "built an affinity with the people and the country" and the latest visit was a "real opportunity to add value". "It's a country accustomed to having lots of rain and cyclone seasons, but Cyclone Freddy was the longest-lasting tropical storm on record lasting for 36 days," he said. "Sadly, with climate change, this type of disaster is probably going to be more prevalent in many parts of the world." Mr Simpson was joined by station officer Alastair Hislop, who had accompanied him on the deployment to Bangula in southern Malawi two years ago, and firefighter Sarah Mimnagh. The training took place on the shores of Lake Malawi in the eastern region. "We taught local agencies about disaster risk management but also how to be more strategic with resources when a disaster, like floods, hit," said Mr Simpson. "The teams we met out there were really receptive to our expertise and were fully engaged in everything we had to teach them both on the boats and in the classroom." Mr Simpson, who has been part of the UK ISAR team for five years, added: "It sounds like a cliché but being able to help people really is the reason for doing this type of work." Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to London prepares for 'clear risk' of climate change fires Almost 25,000 wildfires fought during summer London Fire Brigade
BBC News
09-03-2025
- General
- BBC News
London Fire Brigade firefighters train first responders in Malawi
Three firefighters from the London Fire Brigade have helped train first responders in Malawi how to be better prepared to tackle flood trio's deployment comes after Tropical Storm Freddy ripped through southern Africa, killing hundreds of people, two years 60 Malawian delegates spent a fortnight learning skills, including how to treat people who have been in the water for a long time, search and rescue response coordination and how to perform water rescues from a power Simpson, the brigade's International Search and Rescue (ISAR) coordinator, said he was always ready to share his skills "to help save lives". The station commander was part of the UK's ISAR team that flew out to Malawi in March 2023 to help with the cyclone rescue said he felt he had "built an affinity with the people and the country" and the latest visit was a "real opportunity to add value"."It's a country accustomed to having lots of rain and cyclone seasons, but Cyclone Freddy was the longest-lasting tropical storm on record lasting for 36 days," he said."Sadly, with climate change, this type of disaster is probably going to be more prevalent in many parts of the world." Mr Simpson was joined by station officer Alastair Hislop, who had accompanied him on the deployment to Bangula in southern Malawi two years ago, and firefighter Sarah training took place on the shores of Lake Malawi in the eastern region. "We taught local agencies about disaster risk management but also how to be more strategic with resources when a disaster, like floods, hit," said Mr Simpson."The teams we met out there were really receptive to our expertise and were fully engaged in everything we had to teach them both on the boats and in the classroom."Mr Simpson, who has been part of the UK ISAR team for five years, added: "It sounds like a cliché but being able to help people really is the reason for doing this type of work."
The Independent
30-01-2025
- General
- The Independent
First recipients of new medal honouring humanitarian efforts ‘shocked' by award
Two aid workers have said they are 'shocked' after being awarded a 'humbling' new medal honouring their work during major humanitarian crises. Shyam Rana, Anna Daniell and Melanie Johnson have been recognised with the Humanitarian Medal for their responses on behalf of the United Kingdom to the Morocco Earthquake, the floods in Libya – both in September 2023 – and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The trio are the first people to receive the medal, with the responses having been approved by the King. Recipients of the medal, which was first announced in July 2023, will be people who have responded to major humanitarian disasters, both at home and abroad. Crises could range from natural and conflict-related disasters to significant industrial accidents and biological emergencies, such as an epidemic. Mr Rana, 55, from Cannock Chase, Staffordshire, was operations commander for the UK International Search and Rescue (ISAR) team in Morocco, helping to search and rescue people under collapsed buildings. At home he works for the West Midlands Fire Service Technical Rescue unit in Birmingham. Reacting to the medal, he told the PA news agency: 'It's a huge honour for me. It's a humbling experience, really. 'I'm coming towards the end of a 27-year career in the fire service, 19 of which have been in the ISAR team. I've been deployed all over the world [to] seven international rescue missions, and I'm just about to leave all that behind, so this really crowns a lifetime of service.' Mr Rana said his ISAR team, comprising more than 60 members, was on the ground in Morocco searching for victims of the earthquake within 18 hours of receiving the initial call. The searches included villages deep in the Atlas Mountains, where on one occasion the crew was forced to sleep rough overnight due to its remoteness. Mr Rana said: 'In the UK, we go to house fires or building collapses that involve one or two people. On these international disasters it's in the tens or hundreds of thousands of people who are dead or have lost their homes and their loved ones, and are without any support. 'It's hugely rewarding for us, but it takes its toll. When you see devastation on this magnitude, it puts you in a different mindset. It makes you want to come back and do more of this work.' Mr Rana said his humanitarian work made him 'incredibly proud', adding: 'This [work] needs to go on. 'When you save people in other countries in their time of need we build relationships, whether they're political or economic, and those people don't forget that. They don't forget the things that you do for them.' Ms Daniell, 34, from Chorlton, Greater Manchester, led the UK's Emergency Medical Team into Derna, Libya, after heavy rains from Storm Daniel burst two major dams, causing widespread destructive flooding. Speaking about learning of her medal, Ms Daniell said: 'It's a real honour to be selected. It was really exciting, a really nice surprise. I was not expecting it at all. 'I think I was quite shocked when I found out at first, it's sort of still sinking in a little bit. 'The fact that this new award has been created, I think it really helps to kind of highlight the importance of humanitarian work.' Ms Daniell said whole neighbourhoods in Derna were swept into the sea by the floods, while critical bridges and roads were also badly damaged, making their response efforts much trickier. 'I will never forget the first time that we drove into the city centre of Derna,' she said. 'On the journey there, we'd been chatting, talking in the car, and we all, I think, just fell silent as we drove through the city. 'As a person I'd say I'm probably rarely speechless, but I think the level of devastation that we saw there, I don't think I'll ever forget that.' Reflecting on her time in Libya, Ms Daniell, who works as an operations coordinator for the humanitarian medical NGO UK-Med, added: 'I truly believe that everyone should have access to quality healthcare, especially in crises or natural disasters. And I think as well, just for people to know that they haven't been forgotten. 'I think we were able to do really great work, you know, clinically, but also kind of on, like a on a personal level, to be able to provide a bit of a respite for, you know, some of the clinicians in Libya who had been, you know, basically working around the clock since the disaster happened.' Ms Johnson, from Totterdown in Bristol, is the medical co-ordinator for the humanitarian medical NGO UK-Med in Gaza, providing surgical, primary, and community healthcare support at hospitals in the territory. The medal's design features an image of the King on one side and the words 'for humanitarian service' interwoven with a laurel wreath on the other. It is decorated with a multi-coloured ribbon which aims to reflect 'the different paths for humanitarian service and the variety of services involved in such responses', according to the Cabinet Office. Government departments make recommendations for eligible Humanitarian responses before medal awards are submitted to the King for approval. Foreign Secretary David Lammy said: 'This new medal recognises the incredible dedication and selfless service of individuals on the frontline of the UK's responses to some of the world's most devastating crises. 'I am delighted the first tranche of awards will recognise members of the UK government's emergency deployment teams, for their brave work in Libya, Morocco and Gaza. 'The International Search and Rescue team and Emergency Medical Team are made up of expert firefighters and medics from across the UK, who travel to the most challenging of environments to save lives.'
