International Men’s Health Week 2023
“Men” - They are generally portrayed as the more dominant individual in
society because of their independence, responsibility, and physical strength.
Sometimes, whether intentionally or not, we put the burden of family
responsibilities on the shoulders of men and society tends to look down on a
man if he is unable to care for his family financially and emotionally.
But have you ever thought about how a man feels?
This societal
expectation can create a lot of pressure on men and may even lead to feelings
of shame or inadequacy if they are unable to meet these expectations. It makes
them stressed. In addition, men in our culture are not supposed to show emotion
or discuss their personal issues openly. An article published in the American
Journal of Public Health in 2022 states that men who have internalized stigma
since childhood are less likely to open up and seek
help for psychological issues, putting them at a higher risk for severe mental
illness and other difficulties.
To control
this, every year in the middle of June (12 - 18 June), people across the world
celebrate International Men's Health Week. The week-long event tries to promote
not only men's physical health but also their mental health and well-being.
In 1994, the
US Congress started Men's Health Week in the United States with the aim of
increasing awareness of preventable health issues and promoting early detection
and treatment of diseases among men and boys. And the theme for Men's Health
Week 2023 is "Healthy Habits." The goal is to help men and boys
achieve best lifestyle choices that will have a positive impact on their health
and well-being.
As we grow
older, it is important to change our habits to keep good health. So, in this
blog, I have shared five healthy habits that can help you avoid serious medical
problems. If you are a man or a boy, you ought to follow these five habits.
1. Build Your Body
Engaging in regular exercise is the most
effective way to achieve a normal BMI and maintain good health. The National
Cancer Institute states that engaging in regular exercise can help in weight
management, promote healthy bones, muscles, and joints, and lower the
likelihood of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.
2. Eat Healthy
Eating a nutritious diet and avoiding
fried and highly processed foods can help lower your risk of chronic diseases.
Consuming foods that are rich in fiber and
proteins can help you stay fulfilled with an abundance of energy. Some examples
of healthy food options are whole-grain cereals and bread, low-fat milk, fruit,
and yogurt.
3. Give Importance to Your Sleep
Sleep is not just a downtime; It is important
to our well-being. Recent research from Italy suggests that chronic sleep deprivation may cause the brain to begin degrading itself.
Develop a habit of sleeping 7-9 hours per
night to avoid this. If you are having trouble falling asleep, keep your
bedtime routine free of electronic devices such as the television, laptop, and
mobile phone, and give your brain genuine downtime.
4. Learn New Skills
Learning new skills can enhance your level
of confidence. Engaging in the same activities daily does not help personal
growth in one's life. Step out of your comfort zone and find your skills. You
might be familiar with the well-known quote that states, "Every expert was
once a beginner."
So, it is beneficial to get new skills by
practicing activities such as drawing or playing musical instruments. Developing
a habit of learning new skills can enhance your abilities, reduce stress, and
provide relaxation.
5. Manage Your Work-Life
A poor work-life balance can cause stress.
Stress is a normal human response to difficult or hazardous circumstances.
Therefore, it is essential to keep a healthy work-life balance. You can improve
it through time management, task prioritization, etc.
A healthy habit is the foundation of a long and happy life. So, during this #InternationalMen'sHealthWeek, encourage them to adopt these habits for happier and healthier lives. If they experiencing any mental or physical health issues, do not hesitate to seek for a support from a healthcare service providers.
National Dengue Day is observed on May 16th every year. This health day highlights the importance of raising awareness, preventing, and managing the illness, particularly as the number of dengue cases in India rises every year.
National Dengue Day 2025: Importance
Public education about dengue symptoms is one of the most effective tools in controlling the spread of dengue fever. National Dengue Day 2025 aims to:
- Help individuals identify early dengue symptoms
- Emphasize the importance of timely dengue treatment
- Promote mosquito control practices
- Reduce the stigma around dengue fever
Knowing when to seek dengue treatment can mean the difference between recovery and serious complications. Ignoring early dengue symptoms often leads to severe cases requiring intensive care.
National Dengue Day 2025 History
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, initiated National Dengue Day to draw attention to the rising burden of dengue fever. Over the years, this observance has become instrumental in educating the public about dengue symptoms and encouraging quick access to dengue treatment.
With millions affected annually, the goal is to promote widespread understanding of how dengue symptoms can escalate and why preventive actions and prompt dengue treatment are critical.
What is Dengue?
Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, which is primarily spread through mosquitoes. This disease has become a seasonal epidemic in various parts of India, making it important to spread awareness about its symptoms, treatments, and prevention.
Dengue Symptoms
A few prevalent dengue symptoms include:
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Joint and muscle pain
- Skin rashes
- Pain behind the eyes
- Mild bleeding in the nose and gums
If you encounter any of these symptoms, you must consult your doctor immediately without any hesitation. Never self-medicate
at any cause.
Dengue Prevention
While there is no specific cure for dengue, most cases are managed with the support of dengue treatments. A few of the best preventive measures include:
- Installing mosquito repellents
- Using nets and screens
- Staying away from stagnant water
- Wearing fully covered clothes
Conclusion
National Dengue Day 2025 is not just a health observance; it is a call to action. With early detection, timely treatment, and community operations, we can effectively reduce dengue cases and their impact. All you have to do is stay informed about the disease, act immediately, and protect your loved ones.
6th May, 2025
Every year, May 8th is observed as World Thalassemia Day to raise awareness about Thalassemia, a serious yet manageable blood disorder affecting many individuals globally. World Thalassemia Day drives attention not just to the physical well-being of the individual but also to the mental and social situation faced by every individual diagnosed with Thalassemia.
World Thalassemia Day 2025 Theme
The theme of World Thalassemia Day 2025 is "Together for Thalassemia: Uniting Communities, Prioritizing Patients.” This theme emphasizes the importance of providing a patient-centric approach, building holistic care, and addressing the needs of people with Thalassemia.
World Thalassemia Day Importance
World Thalassemia Day is not just about raising awareness; it is all about education, support, and advocacy. A lot of people, organizations, healthcare providers, and caregivers unite every year to:
- Support the upcoming medical advancements
- Encourage blood donations
- Need for better access to all treatments available
- Easy screening procedures
- Share and put forth the patient's stories
This special day reminds us about the fight against Thalassemia and why it needs immediate attention and global effort.
What is Thalassemia?
Thalassemia is a genetic or hereditary blood disorder that influences the body's ability to produce haemoglobin (an essential protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen). When haemoglobin is deficient, people with thalassemia experience fatigue, anaemia, and other health complications.
Thalassemia is classified into two types: Alpha Thalassemia and Beta Thalassemia. The severity of these two types varies based on the mildness and severity of the illness. In this situation, World Thalassemia Day helps people learn more about this condition and pushes people to get it tested early so that it leads to a healthy life.
Thalassemia Symptoms
Recognizing thalassemia symptoms at the earliest is the best way to get it treated. A few common thalassemia symptoms include:
- Weakness and fatigue
- Yellowish skin
- Face bone deformities
- Dark urination
- Delayed puberty and slow growth
- Enlarged liver or spleen
A few children with more severe forms may exhibit thalassemia symptoms within the first two years of life. This is why healthcare providers emphasize the importance of understanding the illness and being vigilant about it.
Thalassemia Treatments
Thanks to medical advancements, many effective treatments are currently available to help individuals manage their illnesses. A few of the best treatments include the following:
- Regular blood transfusions
- Iron chelation therapy
- Bone marrow or stem cell transplantation
- Folic acid supplements
World Thalassemia Day 2025 aims to promote access to vital thalassemia treatments, particularly in low-income countries.
Who Treats Thalassemia or Whom to Consult for Thalassemia?
If you or someone you know is diagnosed with Thalassemia, the condition should be managed by a team of specialists with experience in blood disorders. Here's who to consult:
- Hematologist: Primary specialist for thalassemia
- Paediatric Hematologist: For Children
- Transfusion Specialist
- Endocrinologist
- Cardiologist & Hepatologist
- Bone Marrow Transplant Specialist
Conclusion
As we observe World Thalassemia Day 2025, let us commit to breaking the stigma, spreading awareness, and advocating for improved care and innovation. By understanding Thalassemia Symptoms and supporting accessible Thalassemia Treatments, we can help create a healthier, more inclusive world for everyone impacted by Thalassemia.
30th Apr, 2025
Every year, the first Tuesday of May marks World Asthma Day, a global initiative organized by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) to raise awareness and improve care for people living with asthma. In 2025, this important health observance falls on May 6th, bringing together healthcare professionals, patients, and advocates to spotlight a respiratory condition that affects millions worldwide. Understanding the asthma definition and the evolving landscape of asthma treatments is essential in managing the disease and improving the quality of life for those impacted.
Raising awareness on World Asthma Day 2025
This year’s GINA theme for World Asthma Day is “Make Inhaled Treatments Accessible for ALL,” which focuses on the need to ensure that people with asthma get access to inhaled medicines to treat attacks and control the disease. By spreading awareness about the illness, we can decrease the stigma and support those who have asthma and who are silently suffering from it.
Asthma Definition
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that leads to wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, chest tightness, etc. All these symptoms are caused by cold air, allergens, stress, or exercise. This illness predominantly affects people of all age groups, and it has no cure. However, it can be managed by lifestyle modifications and proper medical guidance. This is the reason why asthma treatments play a major role in the lives of asthma patients.
Asthma Causes or Triggers
Managing asthma starts with identifying what sets it off. Triggers vary from person to person but commonly include dust mites, pollen, pet dander, smoke, pollution, and respiratory infections. Cold weather, strong smells, and even emotional stress can also contribute. Understanding your specific triggers helps tailor the right asthma treatments for better control. Alongside recognizing triggers, revisiting the asthma definition with your healthcare provider ensures you’re always aware of your current condition and risk factors.
Whom to Consult for Asthma?
You can consult a Pulmonologist to get your illness treated and managed at the right time.
Asthma Treatments
Asthma treatments are becoming advanced now, and a few very common include the following:
Inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, and combination inhalers remain the cornerstone of treatment. Biologic therapies targeting specific immune system components have emerged as game-changers for severe asthma. Personalized medicine, digital inhalers, and telehealth monitoring are also enhancing outcomes. No matter how sophisticated the tools become, understanding the asthma definition helps patients stay informed and proactive about their care.
Takeaways
World Asthma Day 2025 is indeed a call to action not just for people with asthma but also for educators, families, and communities that come together to fight against asthma. So, it is important to learn about asthma and create awareness about it among the people around you. Let’s commit to breathing easier together.
15th Apr, 2025
When a single mosquito bite could take a life, awareness isn’t an option, it's mandatory!
Every few minutes, someone dies due to malaria. It’s a harmful illness that’s been haunting us for centuries, yet it can be treated, prevented, and even eliminated.
Every April 25th, the entire world observes World Malaria Day. This day is a global observance aimed at raising awareness about malaria and fighting this dangerous illness.
World Malaria Day 2025 Theme
The theme for this year’s World Malaria Day 2025 is "Malaria Ends with Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite," which emphasizes the importance and need for an intense commitment, continued investment, and innovative strategies to fight and end malaria.
World Malaria Day 2025: History
World Malaria Day was first instituted by the World Health Organization (WHO) during the 2007 World Health Assembly. This special day highlights the importance of continuous investment, political commitments, and the sustained need to prevent and control malaria. Also, the day has evolved from Africa Malaria Day, which has been observed since 2001, exposing the burden of African nations suffering from malaria.
What is Malaria?
Malaria is a highly infectious mosquito-borne illness caused by parasites of the Plasmodium genus. It is transmitted to humans through female Anopheles mosquito bites. Although malaria is treatable and preventable, it remains one of the most dangerous concerns globally, particularly in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa.
Malaria Symptoms
Malaria symptoms generally appear in 10-15 days after the mosquito bite. It is crucial that you treat it immediately without any delay to avoid it getting worse. However, a few very common symptoms of malaria are:
- Headaches
- Sweating
- High fever and chills
- Vomiting and nausea
- Anaemia
- Diarrhea
- Muscle pain
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain
Malaria Treatments
Malaria treatments are becoming more advanced nowadays, and it is important to diagnose it at the earliest and get it treated on time. Usually, malaria is treated with common antimalarial medicines, and the dosage to completely based on the severity of the infection and parasite species. A few common treatments include:
- Primaquine
- Chloroquine
- Artemisinin-based combined therapies (ACTs)
Patients with severe malaria might require good hospitalization and intravenous drugs.
Malaria Prevention Tips
Prevention plays a major role in reducing the spread of malaria. Here’s how to prevent yourselves from malaria
- Use Insecticide-Treated Bed Nets (ITNs)
- Environmental Control
- Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS)
- Wear Protective Clothing
- Antimalarial Prophylaxis (Preventive Medication)
Why World Malaria Day Matters?
World Malaria Day is not just a call for awareness—it's a rallying cry for action. It reminds us that we all have a role to play, from governments funding malaria programs to researchers developing vaccines to individuals using bed nets and promoting awareness in their communities.
9th Apr, 2025
The liver is the second largest organ in our body and plays a crucial role in overall health. It detoxifies harmful substances, metabolizes essential nutrients, and produces bile to enhance digestion. It becomes susceptible to toxins during the filtering process, leading to serious health issues. Therefore, it is essential to take care of our health. World Liver Day is observed to raise awareness about liver health each year.
World Liver Day Importance
World Liver Day is observed every year on April 19th to raise awareness about the importance of liver health. Each year, a significant number of people die from liver disease, and it is estimated that new cases may increase by 35% annually by 2030. Understanding liver disorders can help with detection, effective management, and prevention. Here are some common liver disorders:
· Fatty Liver Disease: It is associated with obesity, diabetes, and elevated cholesterol levels, this condition entails the buildup of fat within liver cells and has the potential to develop into inflammation and fibrosis
· Hepatitis: Infections caused by different viruses that lead to liver inflammation. Chronic hepatitis can cause long-term damage if untreated.
· Liver Failure: A severe condition where the liver loses its ability to function, often requiring urgent medical attention or even a transplant.
· Liver Cancer: It is commonly referred to as liver cancer and can develop as a result of ongoing hepatitis infections or cirrhosis. Identifying it early greatly enhances the chances of successful treatment.
· Liver Cirrhosis: It is the advanced stage of liver scarring, often caused by long-term liver problems like hepatitis or drinking too much alcohol over many years. This damage cannot be reversed and can lead to the liver not working properly.
The theme of 2025: Food is Medicine
The 2025 theme, “Food is Medicine,” highlights the power of nutrition in preventing liver disease. The food we eat each day can either promote liver healing or contribute to inflammation, fat buildup, and irreversible damage. The theme suggests:
· Eat more plant-based foods, whole grains, meals rich in fiber, and lean proteins like fish or pulses.
· Add foods like turmeric, garlic, green tea, and leafy greens.
· Drink enough water, herbal teas, and fluids that are low in sugar.
· Limit alcohol, processed sugars, high-fat foods, and chemical additives.
In conclusion, our liver works continuously to maintain our overall health. In India, liver-related illnesses are the 10th leading cause of death. World Liver Day highlights the importance of being attentive to our health, integrating healthier habits into our lives, and recognizing that prevention starts with being informed. By learning about liver diseases and making intentional lifestyle and dietary choices, we can greatly lower the chances of liver-related issues.
4th Apr, 2025
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