Constipation has become a very prevalent gastrointestinal issue that affects people of all ages. December is more important for driving more attention to this widespread and undiscussed health concern. This initiative has made it easy for people to speak about digestive health, break the stigmas, and learn more about the ailment in detail.

Statistics about Constipation

The study shows that the statistics of constipation in T2DM patients were 24.3% according to Rome III criteria, of which 11% are male and 13.3% female. Most of the subjects are under the age group of 18-59. Constipation in India is found to be more frequent in Indian women than in men, working people, and non-working people. It is said that this rise in constipation cases is due to poor dietary habits, lifestyle, dehydration, and less physical activity.

History of Constipation Awareness Month

The history of Constipation Awareness Month involves the collective effort of health organizations, medical professionals, and advocacy groups to focus on constipation awareness and its impact. The vision of this initiative is to encourage people to know more about the issue, prioritize health checkups, and seek medical advice when it is required. During this awareness month, the vision is to encourage positive changes in people's perspectives, build healthy habits, and develop healthy lifestyles for a healthier tomorrow.

Whom to Consult for Constipation?

Though constipation isn't a deadly disease, it still has the efficiency to affect your health and day-to-day routine. So, getting yourself checked by a good gastroenterologist when it comes to constipation is better. They will check and help you gradually get better.

Bursting Myths and Facts About Constipation

Myth: You must have a bowel movement in routine

Fact: It doesn't mean everybody should get regular bowel movements. It varies based on an individual's body type. A few people may have it three times a day, and a few might get it three times a week. It can last longer until you feel something is wrong with your body or health. If you have significantly fewer bowel movements for an extended period, you are constipated, and it is suggested that you visit a doctor immediately!

Myth: Constipation Creates Toxins

A few people still believe that constipation can make the body absorb a lot of poisonous substances in the stools, which will lead to severe illnesses like arthritis, colon cancer, and asthma. Still, there is no evidence that the stools will produce toxins, laxatives, and colon cleansing that could prevent illnesses, and constipation isn't a disease.

Myth: You Need More Fiber

It is not just a myth; it is, in fact, true that constipation happens when your body lacks fiber. So, including more veggies and fiber-rich foods in your diet is a good idea. Secondly, hydration plays a significant role in constipation, so you should drink more water regularly. If you still constipate after doing all this, then it is good to consult your doctor and get it checked.

Myth: Only elders get Constipated

Constipation is common in women and older people, but this doesn't mean it affects only these two categories. People from various age groups can be affected by constipation, and there are no age limitations for it. So, irrespective of age and sex, anybody can suffer from constipation.

Conclusion

Everybody is aware of constipation, but not everybody is aware of its consequences. In most cases, people are affected by constipation due to their poor lifestyle and food habits. So, it is important to focus on lifestyle and eat healthy.

This month of December, let us be more cautious about constipation and educate others about its symptoms and causes.

Pancreatic cancer is the 7th leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with a five-year survival rate of around 10%. However, early detection can significantly improve these statistics. By recognizing and acting upon early significant symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, jaundice, and abdominal pain, we can foster earlier diagnosis and treatment, leading to a substantial increase in survival rates. On World Pancreatic Cancer Day, we come together to inspire hope and collective action against this disease.

World Pancreatic Cancer Day 2024: Theme

This year, the theme for World Pancreatic Cancer Day 2024 is "a day of action, a world of difference." It's a call to action for the global community to recognize the urgency of tackling this disease and to demand improved diagnostic tools, treatment options, and support systems.  

Conclusion

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most challenging cancers to diagnose and treat, but with increased awareness and research efforts, there is hope for improved outcomes for patients in the future. Let's unite on World Pancreatic Cancer Day 2024 to make a difference in the fight against this deadly disease.

World COPD Day is celebrated on November 20th of every year, and the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease organizes it. This day is a universal healthcare event that focuses on raising awareness about COPD and its significance, theme, and objective of the year. This great initiative has the global participation of healthcare professionals, policymakers, and organizations that join in educating the public about COPD and its importance in respiratory health, lifestyle, and quality care for people living in this condition.

What is COPD?

Our lungs work without any rest day and night. giving our body enough oxygen, without which we could never survive or exist. However, due to various factors, there are situations where the lungs get affected. The air pollution we have faced in recent years has made it difficult for the lungs to stay healthy. COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is one of the most prevalent lung diseases and a pressing issue in recent times.

COPD is a prevalent lung disease that creates breathing problems and airflow. This illness occurs when the airways in the lungs get damaged or inflamed frequently due to polluted breathing, smoking, etc. People diagnosed with COPD will experience excessive mucus production and coughing and may sometimes feel breathless while doing some physical activities. Even though there is no cure for the health issue, proper treatments and lifestyle modifications will help manage the condition.

Types of COPD

There are two major types of COPD that you should know:

• Chronic Bronchitis
• Emphysema
• Symptoms of COPD
• Fatigue
• Chest tightness
• Fast heartbeat
• Weight loss
• Feet and ankle swelling
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Excess mucus
• Respiratory infections

COPD Prevention Tips

• Have a healthy diet
• Avoid smoking
• Wear face masks
• Stay away from air pollution
• stay physically active
• Avoid passive smoking

Theme and Objective for World COPD Day 2024

The theme for World COPD Day 2024 is “Know Your Lung Function,” which highlights the significance of spirometry, a standard test that analyses the function of your lungs. Spirometry supports diagnosing COPD and is a significant health marker throughout life.

Whom to Consult for COPD?

If you feel like you are facing any COPD symptoms, it is essential you immediately consult with a Pulmonologist and get it diagnosed at the earliest.

Conclusion

COPD is a severe condition that could significantly affect an individual’s quality of life. However, an early diagnosis and treatment will help you manage the illness. Along with proper treatments, lifestyle changes, and medications would be a support to take care of your lung health.

You can visit or consult a general physician who will direct you to a pulmonologist (specialist for any lung disease) only if needed or in case of any serious issues, after a proper diagnosis of your health.

Conclusion 

World Pneumonia Day is a reminder of how important it is to consider pneumonia. Also, the day reminds us that it is vital to encourage global initiatives against pneumonia to protect the most vulnerable. By raising awareness, vouching for accessible and equitable healthcare, and encouraging preventive measures, we can decrease pneumonia’s impact and save lives globally.