Latest news with #PID
Hindustan Times
20 hours ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Is your menstrual product safe? Doctor shares menstrual hygiene guide
The menstrual products we choose have a direct impact on our reproductive health. While comfort and convenience often guide our preferences, it's crucial to understand which products are safe to use in order to maintain proper menstrual hygiene and prevent health risks. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Jalagam Kavya Rao, regional medical head, Oasis Fertility said, 'The majority of menstrual products contain toxins that can irritate the vaginal area and can lead to serious conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a known cause of infertility.' Also read | Do you shower more during your periods? Doctor shares the right menstrual hygiene routine Menstrual cups: Among the environmentally friendly and safe products are menstrual cups. The medical-grade silicone used to make these cups is hypoallergenic, reusable, and chemical-free. Before reusing it, it must be properly cleaned. Cotton pads: Reusable cloth pads are made of natural fabrics such as organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, etc. They offer a breathable, chemical-free alternative to synthetic disposable pads, reducing the risk of irritation and infection. Organic tampons: Just like reusable cloth pads, organic sanitary pads or cotton tampons are very friendly to your vaginal health as they don't contain any toxins or chemicals, which cause irritation or vaginal infections. Period underwear: Period underwear looks like regular underwear, but it has a multi-layer gusset designed for leak-proof absorbency. However, most of the period underwear has PFAS, a synthetic chemical group that disrupts your reproductive health. If you are someone who prefers period underwear, then it should be PFAS-free. Also read | Doctor shares 5 important period hygiene tips that every young girl should follow for stress-free menstrual cycles 'Menstrual products that contain plastics, synthetic fragrances, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are unsafe for your reproductive health, as they can upset the vagina's pH, lead to infections or irritation, and eventually throw off the balance of hormones,' the doctor explained. • Prior to and following product changes, wash your hands. • Change cups every 6 to 12 hours and tampons/pads every 4 to 8 hours. • For less exposure, use low-absorbency unscented products. • Discontinue the product if you have come across any irritation signs. Also read | Menstrual Hygiene Day 2024: Severe health risks associated with poor menstrual hygiene 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.
Express Tribune
4 days ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
Pakistan, ADB push for climate strategy tied to carbon markets
Minister of State for Petroleum Dr Musadik Malik addressing a press conference in Islamabad on December 5, 2022. PHOTO: PID Listen to article Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Dr Musadik Malik, met with an Asian Development Bank (ADB) delegation led by Toru Kubo, Senior Director for Climate Change and Sustainable Development (CCSD), to explore collaboration in carbon markets and shape a new climate strategy. According to a press release issued Thursday, both sides agreed to formulate a comprehensive, impact-driven strategy with a focus on carbon credit mobilisation, climate innovation, and outcomes-based project implementation. Malik assured ADB of full ministerial cooperation and active engagement in the strategy's development. Kubo reaffirmed ADB's support, highlighting the Bank's efforts to help Developing Member Countries invest in low-carbon technologies, boost carbon finance readiness, and access international carbon markets.
Business Recorder
26-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Construction of Sindh motorways ‘top priority', says Aleem Khan
Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan on Monday said construction of motorways in Sindh was a top priority of the government. Talking to the media in Karachi, Aleem Khan announced that the M-6 and M-10 motorways would be launched simultaneously, according to a press release shared by the Press Information Department (PID). 'The M-6 is Pakistan's lifeline which was unfortunately neglected by previous governments,' he added. The minister emphasised that the motorway would be incomplete in its utility without being connected to the C-Port and that both the M-6 and M-10 would be linked to the Karachi Port to ensure full functionality. Highlighting the significance of the M-6 Project, Aleem Khan shared that it was a nearly Rs400 billion initiative comprising upon five sections, each approximately of 60 kilometers long. 'There is no better opportunity for investment than this project.' He further said financing had already been secured for two sections while discussions for the remaining three were ongoing. 'We will finalise the feasibility report and present it to the prime minister within the next 15 days.' Motorways from Karachi to Hyderabad and from Hyderabad to Sukkur would be completed as early as possible while working on the N-25 Highway from Karachi to Quetta was also scheduled to begin later this year, the minister said. 'Karachi's challenges are not just provincial—they are national issues and we will address them on a priority basis,' he emphasised. Replying to questions, the federal minister stressed that his focus was on delivering progress rather than engaging in blame games. 'My effort is to prioritise the launch of motorway projects in Sindh, similarly, we are committed to completing the Kaghan-Naran Motorway.' Aleem Khan said the National Highway Authority (NHA) recorded 'unprecedented growth' in revenue over the current fiscal year and attaining the target from Rs64 billion to Rs110 billion while the additional income would be utilised into improving road infrastructure and constructing new motorways. To ensure road safety, the minister said strict measures were being implemented against dangerous driving on motorways. 'Drivers exceeding 150 km/h are not only being fined but also facing FIRs,' Mandatory use of M-Tags was helping reduce long queues, and staffing shortages in motorway police were being addressed, he added. Regarding his visit to Karachi, Aleem Khan mentioned that he, along with the Federal Secretary Communications and Chairman of the NHA held meeting with the Chief Minister of Sindh and assured full support from his ministry. He also held a meeting with the business community led by Arif Habib, where investors expressed interest in participating in the development of Sindh's motorways and road networks, the PID statement read. The minister noted that a joint team was being formed to focus on additional options for the Lyari Expressway in Karachi, including improvements to interchanges and exploration of further development projects.
Express Tribune
16-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
UK foreign secretary welcomes Pakistan-India ceasefire, says conflict serves no one
British Foreign Secretary David Lammy calls on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad on Friday, May 16, 2025. Photo: PID Listen to article British Foreign Secretary David Lammy hailed Pakistan and India for defusing tensions and agreeing to a ceasefire during meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar on his official visit to Islamabad while stating that 'the conflict serves no one's interest'. Premier Sharif met Lammy on Friday at the Prime Minister's House, expressing satisfaction with the positive momentum in Pakistan–UK relations and reaffirming his commitment to further enhancing bilateral cooperation across all sectors. Reiterating Pakistan's strong commitment to the ceasefire agreement, the PM noted that Pakistan had demonstrated immense patience and restraint in response to India's baseless accusations and unprovoked aggression. He stressed that Pakistan's actions in exercising its right to self-defence were both proportionate and targeted. Highlighting Pakistan's unwavering resolve to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity at all costs, PM Sharif underscored the country's enduring desire for peace in South Asia. He also extended his best wishes to His Majesty King Charles III and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Read more: Greatest honour is forcing enemy to ceasefire: PM marks Youm-e-Tashakur This marks the first visit by a British foreign secretary to Pakistan since 2021. A statement from the British High Commission in Islamabad noted that Lammy welcomed the ceasefire, underscoring that peace and security form the foundation of the UK's relationship with Pakistan. Highlighting the importance of regional stability, Lammy praised efforts to end the long-standing hostility between Pakistan and India, calling the past few weeks 'distressing.' 'The past few weeks have been difficult for British Pakistanis and British Indians alike. We particularly welcome the ceasefire between British Pakistanis and British Indians,' he added. Referring to the heightened tensions after Pahalgam incident, he said the UK had made every effort to de-escalate the situation. 'Both India and Pakistan have agreed to stop hostilities, and the ceasefire remains in place.' Reaffirming the UK's commitment to counter-terrorism efforts and ensuring the continuation of the ceasefire, Lammy highlighted the long-standing cooperation between the UK and Pakistan in promoting regional peace and stability. Earlier, DPM Dar met with Lammy in Islamabad, warmly welcoming the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, according to a statement from the Foreign Office. Read more: Pakistan reaffirms support for China's territorial integrity in Zangnan Dar extended a cordial welcome to Lammy on his first official visit to Pakistan. The two leaders held detailed discussions on recent developments in South Asia, with a particular focus on the Pakistan–India ceasefire. The DPM informed the British foreign secretary of India's unprovoked and aggressive actions, condemning them as violations of Pakistan's sovereignty, international law, the United Nations Charter, and the principles of interstate relations. He maintained that Pakistan had exercised its right to self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter. According to the Foreign Office spokesperson, Dar appreciated the UK's constructive and positive role in reducing tensions. Both sides stressed the importance of restraint and sustained dialogue to ensure long-term peace and stability in the region. The meeting also addressed bilateral relations, with both parties expressing satisfaction over progress in trade, economic cooperation, and development partnerships. Dar lauded the UK's valuable support in the fields of education, healthcare, and climate resilience. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including climate change and sustainable development. They reiterated their resolve to strengthen the historic and long-standing ties between Pakistan and the UK, built on mutual respect, shared values, and strong people-to-people connections.
Express Tribune
15-05-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
PM calls for national agri-innovation plan and regulatory overhaul
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chairs a meeting on agricultural reforms in Islamabad on May 15, 2025. Photo: PID Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday directed the relevant authorities to formulate a sustainable, long-term policy for agro-industrial development to promote agriculture and forestry—key sectors in mitigating the impact of climate change, the Associated Press of Pakistan reported. While chairing a meeting on agricultural sector reforms, the prime minister emphasised that the government is focused on modernising agriculture to achieve self-sufficiency. He instructed officials to devise a coordinated strategy in consultation with the provinces and all relevant stakeholders. Highlighting the vast potential of Pakistan's agricultural sector for rapid economic development, the prime minister noted that the country is endowed with fertile land, skilled agricultural experts, and hardworking farmers. Read more: Low cotton, maize output a setback He further directed that agricultural loans be provided to farmers on easy terms and stressed the importance of boosting agricultural research to enhance productivity. Additionally, he also instructed the concerned departments to present a National Agri-Innovation Plan aimed at driving innovation across the sector. The premier also called for the acceleration of ongoing reforms in the certification system for agricultural seeds and the formulation of a comprehensive action plan to promote the use of high-quality seeds. Underscoring the government's commitment to modernising agriculture, he ordered the development of a robust regulatory framework to support innovation and technology adoption in the sector. During the meeting, proposals were presented by the working group established for agricultural reforms. The meeting was attended by federal ministers Rana Tanveer Hussain, Ahad Khan Cheema, Muhammad Aurangzeb, and Musadik Malik, along with senior government officials. This development comes as Pakistan's agriculture sector is facing significant challenges. According to data from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) and Topline Research, the sector's growth rate dropped to 1.1% in the second quarter of FY 2024–25, down from 6.1% in the same quarter of FY 2023–24. The sharp decline has been largely attributed to a 31% fall in cotton production and a 15.4% drop in maize output, both of which are vital to the sector's overall performance. Read more: CM unveils plan to boost agriculture sector Additionally, gram crop yields have seen a sharp downturn in the rain-fed Thal region, where prolonged drought and the effects of climate change have devastated hundreds of acres of farmland, pushing local farmers into financial distress. Earlier this month, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah directed the provincial agriculture department to develop a four-year package for small growers to strengthen the province's agricultural system and support vulnerable farmers.
