Author: Dr. Rhea Sharma
Dr. Rhea Sharma
Dr. Rhea Sharma with dual degrees in Public Health and Medical Journalism and currently practicing as a physician, has become a respected voice in the health sector. She offers expert insights into a wide array of health issues, making her articles a trusted source of general health information.
Yoga has been found to be a beneficial practice for individuals with epilepsy, according to a recent study published in the medical journal Neurology. The study, conducted in India, focused on the impact of yoga on individuals with epilepsy who often face stigma and discrimination. The researchers found that practicing yoga can help reduce seizure frequency, anxiety, and the stigma often associated with epilepsy. Participants in the study who underwent yoga therapy experienced a decrease in perceived stigma and a greater reduction in seizure frequency compared to those who underwent sham yoga therapy. Additionally, participants who practiced yoga reported improvements…
Male infertility has become a growing concern, with compromised fertility believed to contribute to approximately half of clinical infertility cases. Experts have observed a significant decline in male sperm counts over the past few decades, further highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue. A recent study conducted by scientists from the University of Geneva and the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute suggests that smartphone use may be associated with lower sperm concentration and total sperm count in young adult males. The study involved recruiting 2,886 men between the ages of 18 and 22 from military recruitment centers over a…
The demand for weight-loss medications, specifically semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic) and liraglutide (Saxenda), has led to the emergence of counterfeit products in various countries. The Medicines and Healthcare Regulations Agency (MHRA) has issued warnings about the direct health risks associated with these fake versions of the pre-filled injection pens. Consumers are strongly advised not to purchase these counterfeit products. Dr. Jagdish Khubchandani, a Professor of Public Health, explains that the lack of public knowledge, high demand, and belief in miraculous changes contribute to the counterfeit market. However, Dr. Khubchandani assures individuals who have been prescribed these medications that the chances of receiving…
Regular exercise has been found to be nearly as effective as medications like Viagra in improving erectile dysfunction (ED) in men, according to a new meta-study. The study, which analyzed 11 randomized, controlled trials, found that exercise led to significant improvements in ED, particularly in men with severe ED. Published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, the study used the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) to measure ED severity and discovered that exercise resulted in an average improvement of 2.8 points on the scale. The benefits of exercise for ED extend beyond improved sexual performance. Exercise also contributes to…
A recent study has found that even a small amount of daily exercise can significantly reduce the risk of premature death caused by a sedentary lifestyle. The study, which tracked over 11,000 participants aged 50 and above, revealed that just 22 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) per day can have a positive impact on mortality risk. The more exercise one engages in, the greater the reduction in risk, up to a certain point. The study’s findings challenge the commonly recommended exercise guidelines of 150-300 minutes of MVPA per week. The research suggests that any amount of physical…
Excessive sugar consumption has long been associated with various health issues, such as tooth decay, obesity, and heart disease. However, a recent study has questioned whether adding sugar to coffee or tea has the same detrimental effects on health. Analyzing data from the Copenhagen Male Study, researchers found no increased risk of all-cause mortality, diabetes, or deaths attributed to cancer or heart disease in men who added sugar to their beverages. The Copenhagen Male Study, which began in the 1970s, aimed to gain insights into the health of Danish men aged 40 to 59. The study involved assessing their heart…
Breast cancer is a prevalent disease that affects millions of women worldwide. Recent research has explored the impact of diet on breast cancer risk and outcomes, with unhealthy dietary habits linked to an increased risk of the disease. However, following a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods has shown potential benefits in reducing breast cancer risk. A recent review published in the journal Nutrients examined the therapeutic potential of a ketogenic, or keto, diet for breast cancer patients. The keto diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that forces the body to burn fat for energy instead of…
Prostate cancer is a prevalent disease, affecting millions of men worldwide. It ranks as the second most common cancer in men and the fourth most commonly occurring cancer overall. In 2020 alone, there were approximately 1.41 million new cases of prostate cancer reported globally. However, a recent study conducted by researchers from the Institute of Cancer Research, London, offers hope for individuals with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. The study, published in the journal Nature, reveals a potential breakthrough in treating the disease by targeting myeloid white blood cells. The researchers utilized an experimental drug called AZD5069 in combination with the…
Social media has seen the rise of various trends, but when it comes to health trends, caution is necessary. One such trend is the use of ashwagandha, a herb claimed to provide stress relief, boost confidence, and increase libido. However, the accuracy of these claims and the potential risks associated with ashwagandha need to be examined. Stress is a prevalent issue that can have a significant impact on overall health. With approximately 44% of workers worldwide experiencing high levels of stress, finding ways to alleviate it has become a priority. Ashwagandha supplements have gained popularity on social media, with influencers…
Long COVID, or post COVID-19 syndrome, is a condition that affects a small percentage of individuals who have recovered from a SARS-CoV-2 infection. A recent study from the University of Pennsylvania has shed light on the mechanisms underlying this condition, particularly the neurocognitive symptoms experienced by long COVID patients. The researchers found that long COVID patients have lower levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation and other bodily functions. The decrease in serotonin levels is driven by an inflammation pathway mediated by SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA that persists in the gut. The study also revealed that there is a…