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Business Standard
7 hours ago
- Health
- Business Standard
Diet Coke obsession: All you need to know about the 'fridge cigarette'
Diet Coke is having a cultural moment, especially among Gen Z. Dubbed the 'fridge cigarette', a cold can of the fizzy drink has become a ritualistic dopamine hit, often used as a midday pick-me-up or a stress-busting substitute for a coffee or a cigarette break. Even political figures have reignited interest. US President Donald Trump reportedly reinstated the Diet Coke button in the Oval Office - an old tradition where a red button helps summon a staffer to bring him his favourite beverage. India's soft drink market is booming The Indian carbonated soft drinks market had total revenues of $18.25 billion in 2022, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.8 per cent between 2017 and 2022 The market is expected to grow further, with an anticipated CAGR of 22 per cent for 2022–2027, likely to drive its value to $49.34 billio n by the end of 2027 Are zero-calorie sodas really healthier than regular ones? While Diet Coke does not contain sugar and has fewer calories than traditional colas, nutritionists caution that this does not automatically make it a healthy choice. Artificial sweeteners such as aspartame and acesulfame potassium, commonly found in diet drinks, can impact metabolic processes and gut health over time. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified aspartame as 'possibly carcinogenic to humans.' However, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) state that there is no strong evidence of harm at recommended intake levels. That limit — 40 mg/kg of body weight — would require a person weighing 70 kg to consume around 9–14 cans of diet soda daily to exceed the safe threshold. Expert view: Who should avoid aspartame and why Dr Vaishali Naik, endocrinologist at Lilavati Hospital, said, 'Zero-calorie diet drinks are not risk-free, but are typically better than those with added sugar and calories, particularly for individuals who are obese, insulin resistant, or have type 2 diabetes. They contain aspartame, which is addictive and should be avoided by pregnant women and those who have migraines or seizure disorders.' On the effects of sweeteners on metabolic and gut health, she added, 'Artificial sweeteners such as aspartame can alter gut microbiota, disrupt glucose regulation, and alter dopamine pathways, which can lead to increased cravings and a greater metabolic risk, but human evidence is limited and mixed. Animal studies consistently indicate changes to bacterial composition, such as an increase in Enterobacteriaceae, and decreased insulin sensitivity, regardless of weight. In terms of glycaemic control, most clinical trials show either no impact or minimal impact.' The dopamine rush: Is Diet Coke the new nicotine? Just like nicotine or caffeine, the act of opening a chilled can, hearing the fizz, and taking that first cold sip can trigger a dopamine release - the brain's feel-good chemical. For some, it is not about the drink at all, but the ritual itself. Psychologists point out that the behaviour mimics other habits like smoking breaks - stepping away from work, doing something repetitive and sensory, and gaining a sense of control or relief. 'Dopamine stimulation by Diet Coke is considerably lower than stimulation by either nicotine or caffeine. Nicotine also directly stimulates dopamine release and triggers a very rapid and strong reward signal that is highly associated with addiction. Caffeine increases dopamine signalling moderately by blocking adenosine receptors. In general, dopamine signalling affects alertness and mood. The dopamine response to Diet Coke is primarily derived from sensory cues, which are somewhat low in caffeine. While Diet Coke is habit-forming compared with other beverages, it is not powerful neurochemically like caffeine or nicotine,' said Dr Shorouq Motwani, psychiatrist with Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai. When a harmless ritual turns into a dependency Rituals, when overused, can turn into emotional crutches. According to mental health professionals, relying on Diet Coke every time you're stressed or tired might signal an underlying dependency, not necessarily on the drink itself but on the comforting ritual. Dr Motwani explained, 'Clinical indicators of this change are the frequency of occurrence, inability to stop despite one's intention, and use of ritualisation to either avoid distress or reality. When it interferes with work, relationships, or well-being, and persists despite negative consequences, it mirrors patterns seen in behavioural addictions and compulsive disorders. Such rituals no longer soothe but reinforce a cycle of dependence, emotional avoidance, and impaired functioning.' Healthier ways to replicate the fizz fix For those looking to cut back, there are healthier alternatives that still satisfy the ritualistic element — like sparkling water with lemon, kombucha, or herbal iced teas. Others might benefit from adopting non-beverage rituals like quick walks, guided breathing, or even stretching breaks to replace that 'fridge cigarette' moment. 'Healthier coping strategies that replace the 'fridge cigarette' ritual should address the same neurobiological and emotional needs, like dopamine release, stress relief, and regulating behaviour, but in a way that does not encourage compulsive behaviours. Examples of preventative, evidence-based alternative strategies include mindfulness activities like deep-breathing exercises and meditation, for reducing cortisol and improving regulation of emotional state. Physical activity also increases dopamine and endorphin levels, which can improve mood and decrease cravings,' added Dr Motwani.
Globe and Mail
2 days ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Global Artificial Intelligence in Oncology Market Size to Hit USD 2,145.1 Million by 2025, grow at a CAGR of 33.7%
Artificial intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly important role in oncology. There are various types of AI products that are helping in cancer screening, diagnosis, treatment, and drug development. One of the major products is an AI-assisted cancer screening tool. These tools use deep learning algorithms that have been trained on huge databases of medical images. Global Artificial Intelligence in Oncology Market Key Takeaways According to Coherent Market Insights (CMI), the global artificial intelligence in oncology market size is expected to grow more than 7.6X, from USD 2,145.1 Mn in 2025 to USD 16,382 Mn by 2032, exhibiting a robust CAGR of 33.7%. Based on component, software/platform segment is anticipated to account for a prominent market share of 64.2% in 2025. North America is expected to retain its dominance, accounting for more than one-third of the global artificial intelligence in oncology market share in 2025. Europe is projected to remain the second-leading market for AI-powered oncology companies. As per Coherent Market Insights' new global artificial intelligence in oncology market analysis, Asia Pacific is poised to witness fastest growth throughout the assessment period. Increasing Cancer Prevalence Spurring Market Growth Coherent Market Insights' latest global artificial intelligence in oncology market research report highlights key factors driving market growth. One such prominent growth factor is the rising incidence of cancer. The IARC's Global Cancer Observatory projects that annual new cancer cases will surpass 35 million by 2050. This sharp rise in cancer incidence is anticipated to drive demand for artificial intelligence in oncology. Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing oncology by enhancing cancer detection, treatment planning, and drug discovery. Therefore, growing cancer burden is poised to play a crucial role in driving adoption of AI-based oncology solutions over the forecast period. High Implementation Costs and Data Privacy Concerns Restraining Market Growth The global artificial intelligence in oncology market outlook indicates strong future growth. However, high implementation costs and data security concerns are limiting market growth to some extent. Integrating AI technologies into oncology workflows requires significant investment in hardware and software. This deters small and mid-sized healthcare companies from opting for these technologies, thereby reducing global artificial intelligence in oncology market demand. AI systems require access to large amounts of patient data, raising concerns about cybersecurity risks as well as potential misuse. This may also negatively impact the global artificial intelligence in oncology market growth during the projection period. Get Instant Access! Purchase Research Report and Receive a 25% Discount: Technological Advancements in AI Creating New Growth Prospects for the Market Ongoing innovations in deep learning, computer vision, and natural language processing (NLP) are significantly enhancing AI applications in image analysis, drug discovery, and prognosis prediction. Such breakthroughs are expected to unlock new revenue-generation streams for industry players. Advanced AI technologies are being increasingly integrated with imaging modalities like MRI and PET scans. This integration enables automated detection of anomalies, enhances diagnostic accuracy, and reduces human error. Emerging Global Artificial Intelligence in Oncology Market Trends Rising demand for precision medicine is a key growth-shaping trend in the market. Precision oncology requires analyzing large datasets, including genomics and biomarkers. This is where AI steps in, processing huge data and enabling creation of individualized therapies. Expanding use of artificial intelligence in radiology and pathology is expected to boost the market. AI technologies are being increasingly used for tumor detection, segmentation, and classification through radiological and histopathological images. This is due to their ability to improve speed and consistency as well as reduce diagnostic errors. Increasing adoption of AI in drug discovery and development is positively impacting the global artificial intelligence in oncology market value. This advanced technology is revolutionizing drug discovery by rapidly analyzing large datasets to identify potential drug candidates as well as predict their efficacy and toxicity. Growing adoption of cloud-based AI solutions is significantly contributing to the expansion of the global artificial intelligence in oncology market. These solutions are increasingly favored for their cost-efficiency, scalability, and ability to provide seamless remote access to data and tools. Analyst's View ' The global artificial intelligence in oncology market is set for rapid expansion, owing to growing prevalence of cancer, rising adoption of precision medicine, and technological advancements in AI technologies,' said senior analyst Komal Dighe. Current Events and Their Impact on the Global Artificial Intelligence in Oncology Market Event Description and Impact FDA Clears First GenAI-Powered Diagnostic Tool for Breast Cancer Detection (2025) Description: The U.S. FDA approved a GenAI-based diagnostic platform by PathIntel, capable of identifying breast cancer subtypes with high accuracy using real-world data. Impact: Such approvals signal growing regulatory acceptance of generative AI in oncology. Tempus Collaborated with Boehringer to Accelerate AI Usage in Oncology Description: In May 2025, Tempus entered a multi-year strategic collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim to apply its AI-driven oncology insights toward cancer‑focused therapeutic discovery and biomarker development Impact: This will likely boost growth of the AI in oncology market. Japan's MHLW Updates Reimbursement Guidelines for AI Diagnostics Description: Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has approved reimbursement for certain AI-enhanced imaging diagnostics Impact: Such initiatives will increase commercial viability and adoption of AI oncology tools in Asia-Pacific, spurring more localized R&D and product launches. Competitor Insights Key companies listed in the global artificial intelligence in oncology market report: - IBM Corporation - Intel Corporation - Azra AI - NVIDIA Corporation - Siemens Healthineers AG - GE HealthCare - Digital Diagnostics Inc. - ConcertAI - PathAI - Median Technologies - Microsoft - Babylon - Zebra Medical Vision Key Developments In June 2025, launched a new strategic alliance with Novartis to accelerate timely diagnosis and deliver AI-powered precision care for cancer patients. Through this collaboration, will focus on developing AI-powered workflows for breast and prostate cancer. In November 2024, PathAI unveiled PathExplore Fibrosis. This new AI-powered tool is designed to revolutionize collagen, fibrosis, and fiber quantification directly from whole-slide images. In January 2024, PathAI launched six additional oncology indications for PathExplore, expanding the AI-driven pathology panel to cover ovarian, bladder, liver, small cell lung, lymphoma, and head & neck cancers. Global Artificial Intelligence in Oncology Market Segmentation: By Component Software/Platform Hardware Services By Cancer Type Breast Cancer Lung Cancer Prostate Cancer Colorectal Cancer Brain Tumor Others By Treatment Type Chemotherapy Radiotherapy Immunotherapy Others By End User: Hospitals & Clinics Diagnostic Centers Biopharmaceutical Companies Others By Region North America Latin America Europe Asia Pacific Middle East Africa About Us: Coherent Market Insights leads into data and analytics, audience measurement, consumer behaviors, and market trend analysis. From shorter dispatch to in-depth insights, CMI has exceled in offering research, analytics, and consumer-focused shifts for nearly a decade. With cutting-edge syndicated tools and custom-made research services, we empower businesses to move in the direction of growth. We are multifunctional in our work scope and have 450+ seasoned consultants, analysts, and researchers across 26+ industries spread out in 32+ countries.
Wales Online
5 days ago
- Health
- Wales Online
Chemicals found in everyday products are being linked to cancer in young people
Chemicals found in everyday products are being linked to cancer in young people They have been around since the 1940s and are found in products like non-stick cookware, food packaging, stain-resistant fabrics Hospital patient holding hands with a loved one (Image: Getty ) The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has finalised its evaluation of possible links between two forever chemicals and cancer, and it has been suggested that there could be a connection between these findings and the amount of young people now being diagnosed with cancer. "Forever chemicals' is a term used to describe a group of synthetic substances called PFAS, which are chemicals that are used in a wide range of everyday products because they resist water, grease, and stains. They're called 'forever chemicals' because they don't break down easily in the environment or in the human body and as a result, they can remain in soil, water, and our systems for long periods of time. PFAS have been around since the 1940s and are found in products like non-stick cookware, food packaging, stain-resistant fabrics, and some personal care items. Stay informed on the latest health news by signing up to our newsletter here According to Cancer Research, the two chemicals IARC looked at are no longer produced or used in the UK. IARC has now classified one of them, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), as cancer-causing, or carcinogenic (Group 1), but this decision wasn't based on strong evidence showing an increase in cancer cases in people exposed to PFOA. Instead, IARC noted "sufficient" evidence for PFOA-linked cancers in one species of experimental (lab) animal. They also found "strong" evidence that PFOA can cause changes in the human body that may lead to the development of cancer. Article continues below It's important to note that cancer development is complex and many different factors can influence risk, including genetics, lifestyle, and other environmental exposures. For example, researchers are also studying the role of plastics, air pollution, and food additives in rising cancer rates and it is not usually one single factor, but a combination that matters. In the case of early-onset cancers such as colorectal cancer diagnosed in younger adults it's difficult to identify a clear cause, and are just one piece of a much larger puzzle. Children may be exposed to PFAS in several ways. These include drinking water, food, household dust and direct contact with products containing the chemicals and because PFAS don't leave the body easily, even small exposures over time can add up. How you can reduce your own exposure While a lot is still unknown, health experts recommend taking steps to reduce exposure where possible, and this might include avoiding stain-resistant or non-stick products when alternatives are available. You can also use a water filter which is certified to remove PFAS which can also help - particularly in areas with known contamination. But as Cancer Research states: "It's now illegal to use PFOA or PFOS in the UK, but we're still living with them. "Before regulations were put in place in the 2000s, PFOA and PFOS were used in packaging, carpets, cookware, manufacturing processes, firefighting foams and waterproof clothing. "Even though those products and processes might not exist anymore, the chemicals they contained still may not have broken down. "The fact forever chemicals are so long-lasting also means they can filter out into the environment. "That makes it difficult for individual people to avoid them. "Because of that, effective monitoring is important for us to understand whether and which measures may be needed to reduce any potential risk – from PFOA, PFOS or any similar chemical." Article continues below
Newsweek
6 days ago
- Health
- Newsweek
Common Virus Found To Increase Cancer Risk
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Those who have a specific antibody that is produced following infection from a common virus may be at greater risk of developing certain cancers, a new study from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has found. Individuals who test positive for Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) capsid antigen (VCA-IgA) antibodies were found to have a higher risk of developing cancers such as lung cancer, liver cancer, nasopharyngeal carcinoma and lymphoma, according to a study shared by IARC with Newsweek. Newsweek has contacted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) via email for comment. What Is Epstein-Barr Virus? The Epstein-Barr virus is one of the most common and persistent human viruses in the world, according to the CDC, and is member of the herpes virus family. EBV infects approximately 95 percent of the global population, the IARC said. It is the usual cause of infectious mononucleosis, otherwise known as "mono"—a contagious disease common among teens and adults that is usually spread through saliva, so by kissing or sharing drinks and food. After an individual is infected with EBV, the virus becomes inactive in their body, but may reactivate in some cases, with the potential for symptoms to resurface. "It's a latent virus that resides inside of certain cells," Dr. Henry Balfour Jr., a professor in the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at the University of Minnesota Medical School, told Newsweek. "So, when your immune system is challenged, let's say you get a flu shot or COVID, you're likely to see reactivation of EBV," he said. Usual symptoms of EBV include fatigue, fever, inflamed throat, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, an enlarged spleen and swollen liver, as well as others. The virus was previously classified as carcinogenic to humans, in the IARC's highest risk category (Group 1), in 1997. To date, it has been directly linked to a few specific types of cancer, with studies estimating EBV-related cases accounted for between 239,700 to 357,900 new cases of certain cancers in 2020. EBV has also been linked with rare diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic and autoimmune neurological disorder, Lawrence Steinman, a professor of neurology and neurological sciences, and pediatrics at Stanford University, told Newsweek. He also said that EBV, as a virus, may "trigger cancer itself," but that the antibodies one gets from EBV infection, may actually fight against certain cancers. "In fact, strengthening the immune response to EBV is a way that the immune system fights the virus, and in doing so helps kill the cancer or attenuate its spread," he said. "The trade off comes with developing an autoimmune response to self proteins that may be contained in the cancer." File photo: a computer illustration of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). File photo: a computer illustration of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Dr_Microbe/Getty Images What Did The Study Find? The IARC study evaluated the cancer risk in two cohorts in Southern China of just under 74,000 adults. Over the course of around eight to 10 years, 964 cases of cancer were identified in the Zhongshan cohort and 1,026 in the Wuzhou cohort. Researchers found that those who tested positive for EBV VCA-IgA antibodies were nearly five times as likely to develop cancer compared with individuals who tested negative. There were also higher risks of developing certain cancers—for nasopharyngeal carcinoma, EBV VCA-IgA antibody positive individuals were found to be 26 times as likely to develop the disease. Meanwhile, for lung cancer, they were 1.76 times as likely to develop the disease, for liver cancer, they were 1.70 times as likely to, and for lymphoma, they were 3.20 times as likely to. Nasopharyngeal carcinoma, a type of cancer affecting the part of the throat that connects the back of the nose to the back of the mouth, had the highest risk among the cancer types investigated. Authors of the study noted there was an increased cancer risk associated with higher levels of EBV VCA-IgA antibodies—an elevated risk that persisted even up to 10 years before diagnosis, which the IARC said suggested that EBV infection "may play a long-term role in cancer development." Overall, the study estimated that 7.8 percent of the total cancer burden in Southern China could be attributed to EBV VCA-IgA antibody positivity in individuals. Are Experts Concerned? "I am not concerned about this finding," Luis Schang, a professor of chemical virology at Cornell University, told Newsweek, because it has been "long known" that EBV is associated with certain cancers. "The major contribution of this study is linking the increase in cancer risk to likely reactivation," he said. Before this study, he said that it would be argued the risk of developing cancer was "independent" of virus reactivation. Schang said that the study could also indicate that "antiviral, or vaccine, suppressive treatment could have a protective effect against the cancers produced by EBV." Antiviral treatment can "inhibit" virus reactivation, Schang said, although it is still "extremely challenging" to treat, as the virus persists in human cells for a prolonged period. He added that a vaccine that "could elicit strong immune responses" to curtail reactivation at early stages, potentially having an impact oncogenesis, the process where cells are transformed into cancer cells. While the findings are notable, experts told Newsweek that more research still needs to be done on the issue. "Most people, almost everybody who is infected with EBV, doesn't get cancer and doesn't get multiple sclerosis, so there's something else going on," Balfour Jr said. He said that there is evidence of the effects of EBV, and its potential to cause long-term chronic diseases like cancer or autoimmune diseases, being "specific to geographical area and possibly the socioeconomic status of the people." While it is not yet clear why this is the case, he said that "over and over again, socioeconomic status and race ethnicity are associated with the prevalence of EBV." As a result, "I would be cautious in interpreting these findings to be of any concern to people in the U.S. - depending on your age and your socioeconomic status, about 90 percent of young adults and adults are positive for EBV and almost all of them are not going to get cancers or autoimmune diseases such as MS," Balfour said.
Sustainability Times
6 days ago
- Health
- Sustainability Times
'Stop Stomach Cancer Now': This Game-Changing H. Pylori Treatment Could Be the Lifesaving Answer You've Been Waiting For
IN A NUTSHELL 🔍 Screening and treating Helicobacter pylori infections could prevent up to 75% of future stomach cancer cases. and treating infections could prevent up to 75% of future stomach cancer cases. 📈 The study projects 15.6 million new gastric cancer cases globally, with Asia bearing the highest burden. 💊 Cost-effective prevention strategies, similar to vaccination campaigns, can significantly reduce the global incidence of stomach cancer. 🌍 Tailored interventions for different income regions are crucial for effective implementation and success. Stomach cancer, a formidable health challenge, has alarmingly risen among young adults worldwide, becoming a pressing issue that warrants immediate attention. Recent research has highlighted a promising preventive measure: the targeted treatment of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections. This bacterium is a significant risk factor for gastric cancer, yet it is preventable and treatable. The study underscores the potential of screening and treating H. pylori infections to avert the majority of future stomach cancer cases, offering hope in the fight against this deadly disease. Understanding the Rise of Stomach Cancer The global incidence of stomach cancer has seen a disturbing increase, particularly among individuals under the age of 50. This trend has been linked to chronic infections with H. pylori, the most potent known risk factor for the disease. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), has conducted extensive research to project future trends in stomach cancer incidence. Their findings reveal that if current prevention and treatment strategies remain unchanged, around 15.6 million new cases of gastric cancer will emerge among those born between 2008 and 2017. The research highlights that a staggering 76% of these cases are attributable to H. pylori infections, suggesting that they are potentially preventable. Alarmingly, the burden is expected to be highest in Asia, with 10.6 million cases, followed by the Americas and Africa. This data underscores the urgent need for effective public health interventions to address this rising health threat. Cold Plunges Are a Scam for Women and Science Just Dropped the Mic on This Freezing Hot Fitness Fad The Role of H. Pylori in Gastric Cancer Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that colonizes the stomach lining, leading to chronic inflammation and increasing the risk of developing stomach cancer. Despite being a major health concern, H. pylori is a preventable risk factor. The standard treatment involves antibiotics combined with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which reduce stomach acid production, effectively targeting the infection. Given its significant role in gastric cancer, addressing H. pylori infections presents a viable strategy to curb the disease's incidence. The study suggests that comprehensive screening and treatment programs could potentially reduce stomach cancer cases by up to 75%. Even partially effective programs, achieving 80% to 90% efficacy, could prevent 60% to 68% of cases, demonstrating the immense potential of such interventions. « This brewing habit could silently hurt you »: these common coffee preparation methods directly linked to increased heart disease risk Implementing Effective Prevention Strategies The implementation of a H. pylori screening and treatment program requires strategic planning and investment. Researchers advocate for population-based interventions, tailored to the economic realities of different regions. In high-income countries, endoscopy-based screening and insurance-supported treatments could be effective, while in lower-income regions, population-level screening and early treatment could be more feasible and impactful. These strategies are cost-effective, akin to vaccination campaigns for HPV or hepatitis B, and could significantly reduce the global burden of stomach cancer. The study stresses the importance of developing an H. pylori vaccine, which could further revolutionize prevention efforts, offering a long-term solution to this global health challenge. 'Your Breath Is a Signature': Scientists Reveal Human Breath Is as Unique and Traceable as a Fingerprint Addressing Challenges and Moving Forward Despite the promising nature of the findings, the study acknowledges several limitations. Many low-income countries lack comprehensive cancer registries, potentially leading to data underestimation. Moreover, assumptions about the constancy of H. pylori prevalence and cancer incidence rates could affect the accuracy of projections. Nonetheless, the research provides a compelling case for increased investment in gastric cancer prevention. By prioritizing the eradication of H. pylori, public health systems can significantly reduce the incidence of stomach cancer. The study advocates for targeted, evidence-based interventions that consider demographic trends and regional disparities. As scientists and policymakers collaborate to tackle this issue, the potential to save millions of lives becomes increasingly tangible. The fight against stomach cancer is a global health priority, particularly as it increasingly affects younger populations. By focusing on effective prevention strategies, such as the treatment and eradication of H. pylori, we can pave the way for a healthier future. What further innovations and collaborations might emerge in the quest to combat this deadly disease? 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