Latest news with #JohnsHopkinsMedicine
India.com
3 days 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
25-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Billy Joel cancels tour due to health scare: Here's what to know about the brain disorder
The Piano Man is hitting the pause button for now. In a concerning announcement, legendary singer has canceled all upcoming concerts for 2025 following a diagnosis of a brain condition. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now In a statement released by his team, it was revealed that he has been diagnosed with a brain condition known as Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus, or NPH for short. The 76-year-old musician, known for hits like "Piano Man" and "Uptown Girl," revealed that the condition has led to issues with balance, vision, and cognition, prompting medical professionals to advise a temporary hiatus from touring. Read on to know more about the brain disorder. What Is Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus? Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) is a condition where excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up in the brain's ventricles, causing symptoms like difficulty walking, urinary incontinence, and cognitive problems, but the fluid pressure remains within the normal range. Despite the term "normal pressure," the condition can lead to the enlarged ventricles increasing pressure on brain tissues, resulting in a range of symptoms. Elaboration: CSF Buildup: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) normally circulates around the brain and spinal cord. In NPH, the flow or absorption of CSF is disrupted, leading to a buildup. Normal pressure: Even though there's a buildup of CSF, the pressure within the skull (intracranial pressure) is typically normal or only slightly elevated. What are the signs of NPH? NPH presents with a classic triad of symptoms: gait difficulty (unsteadiness, feeling like feet are stuck), cognitive impairment (forgetfulness, difficulty with attention), and urinary incontinence. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now As per Johns Hopkins Medicine, the symptoms often begin slowly and gradually worsen. While the exact cause is often unknown (idiopathic NPH), it can be triggered by various factors in other cases (symptomatic or secondary NPH). Gait difficulties: Unsteadiness and poor balance: Individuals may experience a general sense of unsteadiness and difficulty maintaining balance. Magnetic gait: Some people describe a feeling that their feet are stuck to the floor, making it difficult to lift them. Trouble initiating steps: Difficulties starting to walk or turning can be a symptom. Shuffling or broad-based gait: A shuffling or wide-legged walk may be observed. Hesitation and frozen gait: Some individuals may hesitate when approaching objects or feel "stuck" and unable to initiate a normal stride. Cognitive impairment: Forgetfulness and memory loss: NPH can cause difficulty remembering things. Difficulty with attention and concentration: Focusing on tasks or paying attention may become challenging. Slowing of mental function: People may experience a decline in overall mental processing speed. Mood changes: Depression, irritability, or apathy can occur. Difficulty with planning, organizing, and problem-solving: Activities requiring these skills may become more difficult. Loss of interest in activities: Individuals may lose interest in hobbies or other daily activities. Urinary incontinence: Frequent urge to urinate: An increased urge to urinate, even when the bladder is not full, can be a symptom. Difficulty controlling urination: Loss of bladder control, leading to unintentional urination, can occur. Urinary frequency: Increased frequency of urination, especially at night. For Billy Joel, the progression of NPH has led to challenges with balance and coordination, particularly during live performances. These difficulties were evident during a recent concert when Joel experienced a fall on stage, leading to the postponement of several tour dates. Following this incident, further medical evaluations confirmed the NPH diagnosis. How to tackle NPH? While there's no cure for NPH, the most common and effective treatment is surgery to implant a shunt. A shunt is a tube that drains the excess CSF from the brain into the abdomen, where it can be reabsorbed by the body. The severity of NPH symptoms can influence the decision to proceed with surgery or other treatments. Treatment options: Shunt surgery: This is the primary treatment for NPH. A shunt is a thin tube implanted in the brain to drain the excess CSF into the abdomen. Different types of shunts are available, and the choice depends on the individual's needs. After shunt surgery, it's essential to follow the doctor's instructions for wound care and follow-up appointments. Regular checkups with a neurosurgeon are necessary to ensure the shunt is functioning properly and to address any complications. Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help improve gait and balance. Cognitive therapy: Cognitive therapy can help with memory and thinking skills. Lifestyle modifications: Making adjustments to daily routines, such as using assistive devices or planning for falls, can help manage symptoms. Support groups: Connecting with others who have NPH can provide emotional support and practical tips. Billy Joel Forced to Reschedule Concerts After Frightening On-Stage Fall & Surgery | WATCH
The Star
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Legendary musician Billy Joel cancels concert dates over brain condition
US musician Billy Joel performs during a concert at the Formula One Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas on October 23, 2021. Joel has announced that he will be cancelling all scheduled concerts following a recent diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). — Photo: SUZANNE CORDEIRO / AFP Pop great Billy Joel cancelled a series of global tour dates after being diagnosed with a brain condition that worsened because of recent performances, he announced Friday. "Billy Joel has announced that he will be cancelling all scheduled concerts following a recent diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)," read a statement on the Piano Man's website. The condition arises if cerebrospinal fluid cannot properly flow throughout the brain and spinal cord, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. The excess fluid and pressure can cause brain damage. The institution said on its website that NPH is rare, but can cause cognitive impairment including memory problems as well as trouble walking. Joel's statement said "this condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance." Prompt treatment can alleviate the condition if diagnosed early. Joel's scrapped dates include several in Britain, as well as a packed schedule crisscrossing the United States from July 2025 up until July 2026 when he was due to round off his ambitious string of dates in Charlotte, North Carolina. The We Didn't Start the Fire legend, 76, wrote "I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding." Consummate New Yorker Joel has been a pop mainstay and performer extraordinaire since the 1970s, with a catalog of fan favorites including Uptown Girl and New York State of Mind . Last year he capped a decade-long residency with more than 100 shows at Manhattan's famed Madison Square Garden. The residency drew in millions of fans and grossed more than US$260mil. "Let's be real – I'm from New York," the Bronx-born, Long Island-raised artist told journalists in the run-up to his 100th performance at the top arena. "This is my venue. Fortunately for me, Madison Square Garden is a world venue. You can play almost any other arena in the country and nobody else in the world is going to know about it," he said. Last year, Joel released his first new original song in almost two decades, Turn the Lights Back On . The Grammy winner has a laundry list of accolades to his name, including induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in addition to that organization's top lifetime achievement honor. Joel is also a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as well a Kennedy Center honoree. A documentary film about his storied life – Billy Joel: And So It Goes – is set to premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 4. – AFP
France 24
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- France 24
Billy Joel cancels concert dates over brain condition
"Billy Joel has announced that he will be cancelling all scheduled concerts following a recent diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)," read a statement on the Piano Man's website. The condition arises if cerebrospinal fluid cannot properly flow throughout the brain and spinal cord, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. The excess fluid and pressure can cause brain damage. The institution said on its website that NPH is rare, but can cause cognitive impairment including memory problems as well as trouble walking. Joel's statement said "this condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance." Prompt treatment can alleviate the condition if diagnosed early. Joel's scrapped dates include several in Britain, as well as a packed schedule crisscrossing the United States from July 2025 up until July 2026 when he was due to round off his ambitious string of dates in Charlotte, North Carolina. The "We Didn't Start the Fire" legend, 76, wrote "I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding." Consummate New Yorker Joel has been a pop mainstay and performer extraordinaire since the 1970s, with a catalog of fan favorites including "Uptown Girl" and "New York State of Mind." Last year he capped a decade-long residency with more than 100 shows at Manhattan's famed Madison Square Garden. The residency drew in millions of fans and grossed more than $260 million. "Let's be real -- I'm from New York," the Bronx-born, Long Island-raised artist told journalists in the run-up to his 100th performance at the top arena. "This is my venue. Fortunately for me, Madison Square Garden is a world venue. You can play almost any other arena in the country and nobody else in the world is going to know about it," he said. Last year, Joel released his first new original song in almost two decades, "Turn the Lights Back On." The Grammy winner has a laundry list of accolades to his name, including induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in addition to that organization's top lifetime achievement honor. Joel is also a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as well as a Kennedy Center honoree.
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Billy Joel's highly anticipated Utah return officially canceled following medical diagnosis
Billy Joel has officially canceled 17 stadium shows across North America and the U.K. following a medical diagnosis — including a highly anticipated stop in Salt Lake City. The 'Piano Man' announced Friday on his official Instagram account that he is canceling all scheduled concerts following a recent diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus — a brain disorder he said has been 'exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision and balance.' Joel, who is undergoing physical therapy, has been advised to refrain from performing as he recovers and prioritizes his health. 'I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding,' the five-time Grammy winner said in a statement. The announcement comes on the very day Joel was initially scheduled to perform with Sting at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City. A couple of months ago, Joel postponed that concert to May 22, 2026, as the Deseret News reported. 'While I regret postponing any shows, my health must come first,' Joel shared in a March 11 Instagram post. 'I look forward to getting back on stage and sharing the joy of live music with our amazing fans. Thank you for your understanding.' Joel's now-canceled performance at the 51,000-seat Rice-Eccles Stadium generated a lot of hype. Live Nation held a special press conference at the stadium to announce the show, which culminated with Utah Utes head coach Kyle Whittingham riding a motorcycle onto the field to declare his love for Joel, whom he said he has been listening to since 'Piano Man' came out in 1973. 'Absolutely elated,' Whittingham said, with a Billy Joel/Sting No. 25 Utes jersey on either side of him. 'I've been a Billy Joel fan forever, so really exciting stuff. Can't wait for the concert. I'll be here, hopefully, if I can get tickets. Just couldn't be more thrilled to have the Piano Man coming to Salt Lake City.' The show would have marked a highly anticipated return — the singer last performed in Salt Lake City at the Delta Center nearly a decade ago in 2017. That interactive concert featured some of the singer's greatest hits, including 'My Life,' 'New York State of Mind,' 'For the Longest Time' and 'You May Be Right.' Last year, Joel released 'Turn the Lights Back On,' his first original song in nearly two decades. The singer said in his statement that he 'looks forward to the day when he can once again take the stage.' Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus is rare, and the condition's symptoms can be similar to those of Alzheimer and Parkinson diseases, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. It occurs when cerebrospinal fluid in the brain's ventricles builds up. 'When excess CSF fluid builds up in the ventricles, they enlarge and press against nearby brain tissue,' per Johns Hopkins Medicine. 'This extra fluid and pressure can lead to brain damage.' Symptoms can include trouble walking, poor balance, confusion, difficulty responding to questions and loss of bladder control.
