MediWeek

Head and neck cancers (HNC), which include cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx, is the 7th most common cancer globally, with a high burden in low- and middle-income countries. Though the overall rates of HNC are declining in high-income countries, the incidence of oropharyngeal cancer is rising, largely due to human papillomavirus infections. […]

Physical inactivity is a significant risk factor for chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and respiratory diseases. Despite evidence supporting physical activity’s role in preventing and managing these diseases, patients are rarely screened for inactivity in primary care settings, potentially leading to underdiagnosis and suboptimal management. The Exercise Vital Sign (EVS) and Physical

Recently, there has been a growing recognition regarding detrimental effects of insufficient sleep and hypertension on brain health. Short sleep duration, defined as less than the recommended seven hours per night, has been associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment, dementia, and vascular brain injury. Similarly, hypertension, particularly in midlife, is a well-established risk

Smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable diseases, disability, and premature death worldwide. The harms associated with smoking are reported across epidemiological studies using various measures of quantitative assessment. However, it can be challenging to communicate these harms in a clear and accessible way that resonates well with people who smoke. Most smokers

Age-related cognitive decline is a key factor in the loss of independence and reduced well-being in older adults. Identifying modifiable factors that can help maintain daily cognitive function is crucial for improving the quality of life, active social participation, and mitigating cognitive impairment and dementia. Physical activity is one such protective factor, with studies showing

The global prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) has surged, with 463 million people reported to be affected in 2019; this is expected to increase to 700 million by 2045. The role of lifestyle factors, particularly diet, in preventing and managing T2D has been adequately investigated. Increased intake of dietary flavonoids, including specific flavonoid subclasses,

Long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is a global public health concern linked to increased mortality and morbidity. The Global Burden of Diseases (GBD) 2019 study attributed 0.98 million deaths in India to ambient air pollution. However, the exposure-response functions used in such assessments are often derived from countries with much lower air pollution

Protein supplements and protein-fortified foods, once promoted primarily to the athletes, are now being increasingly targeted at the general population. “Proteins” is currently one of the best-selling functional food ingredients. The growing demand for protein-rich products appears to stem not only from deficiency, but from the enhanced consumer awareness on the role of proteins in

Phenols are organic compounds with hydroxyl groups attached to aromatic structures. Alkylphenols, which are formed through phenol alkylation, are intermediates in purification processes and environmental byproducts of alkylphenol ethoxylates used in household products including detergents, cosmetics etc. Common alkylphenols like octylphenol (OP) and 4-nonylphenol (4NP) are detected in soil, aquatic environments, and food. These compounds

The increasing life expectancy has heightened interest in understanding biological aging, which reflects an individual’s functional decline rather than just chronological age. Key factors such as inflammation, metabolism, and homeostasis play a role in biological aging, with lifestyle factors, particularly diet, having a significant impact. Diets rich in whole foods like the Mediterranean and DASH