Srinagar, Feb 18: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Wednesday informed the House that out of 877 ventilators installed across hospitals in the Union Territory, 219 remain non-functional, highlighting gaps in critical care infrastructure. Replying to a question of MLA Shamim Firdous, minister in-charge for Health and Medical Education Department informed the House that 658 ventilators are functional while 219 are non-functional. While giving institution-wise details, she said that in GMC Jammu and its associated hospital there are 320 ventilators, among which 209 are functional and 111 are non-functional. “In SMHS Srinagar, 08 ventilators are non-functional and in GMC Srinagar associated hospitals excluding SMHS, 44 are non-functional,” the government said. As per the figures, in GMC Anantnag only 10 out of 36 ventilators are functional while GMC Baramulla has 2 non-functional ventilators and GMC Doda 10, GMC Kathua 2 and GMC Rajouri 3 are non-functional as well. Also, in GMC Udhampur and GMC Handwara, all 39 and 6 ventilators respectively are functional. The government further said, in SKIMS and its associated hospitals, out of 53 ventilators, 40 are functioning while 13 are non-functional.

Srinagar Feb 5: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Thursday informed the Legislative Assembly that around 20 Addiction Treatment Facilities (ATFs) were established across J&K UT. The government informed the House that in addition, six private de-addiction facilities are operational in the UT. The details were shared by the government while replying to a query raised by MLA Devyani Rana.  The Government said that ATFs are now fully operational across the Union Territory. "There are 11 such centers in the Kashmir Division and 9 in the Jammu Division," the minister in-charge informed the House. "These government facilities provide outpatient (OPD) services and function in all 20 districts, the reply reveals." These centers provide counseling and initial treatment to those in need. In addition, Inpatient (IPD) services with dedicated beds for comprehensive rehabilitation are available in the nine Government Medical Colleges. Some district hospitals also have admission facilities.   In addition to the 20 government ATFs, some private and NGO-run centres have also started to operate in J&K. These offer rehabilitation and mental health care services.  The government further informed that since 2022 Kashmir Division has recorded 16,759 patients  for  treatment of addiction. "This is slightly higher than 15,758 patients registered in the Jammu division. The total number of people registering for de-addiction across J&K is approximately 32,500," the reply reads. In Kashmir, Srinagar which runs the major de-addiction facilities, has the largest share with over 6,100 registrations. "This is followed by districts Anantnag, Kulgam, and Baramulla. In Jammu, the Government Medical College in Jammu city has handled the highest number of nearly 9,800 cases," the government informed the House. Kathua, Rajouri, and surrounding areas also have a significant number of registrations. "The facilities for de-addiction are being set up as part of the broader Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan and Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan," the government informed the House.

Srinagar, Feb 5: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Thursday informed the Legislative Assembly that around 49276 cases of drug abuse were reported in Jammu and Kashmir since 2022. She further said that 16759 such patients have been registered in Kashmir and 32517 in Jammu respectively. The minister was speaking in response to a MLA Tanvir Sadiq, who told the House that he earlier introduced a bill on drug abuse, making it compulsory to teach the ill effects of drug addiction in schools. "I had withdrawn the bill on the assurance of the government," he said. The health minister however informed the House that the government would bring a bill on drug abuse during the ongoing session of the Legislative Assembly. "The bill has been prepared and will be introduced in the House during the ongoing session," she informed the House. The Minister said  that the government is also in the process of finalising drug de-addiction rules. “We have framed the drug de-addiction rules and have sent them to the Law Department for examination,” she said.

Srinagar, Feb 03: The J&K Government on Tuesday informed the Legislative Assembly that Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla and its Associated Hospital were facing a serious manpower shortage across teaching, clinical and support staff. The minister in-charge in a reply said that large scale vacancies were unfilled in faculty, gazetted and non gazetted category as well. The government figures produced in the Assembly revealed that out of  the total sanctioned faculty strength at GMC Baramulla stands at 272 posts only 209 faculty members are in place while 63 posts are unfilled till date.  The shortage is acute in senior teaching positions as out  of 23 sanctioned posts of Professors, only eight are filled while 15 have been rendered vacant. "Against the sanctioned strength of 33 posts, GMC Baramulla has eight posts vacant while 20 out of 65 positions of Assistant Professors are lying vacant as well," the government figures revealed. Also, six posts of Junior Residents and five posts of Senior Residents are lying vacant as well. The official figures also revealed that GMC Baramulla has a shortfall of manpower in non-gazetted staff, particularly in technical, nursing and support categories as well. The details were produced in the House in response to a query raised by MLA Aga Syed Muntazir. As per the government figures, against a sanctioned strength of 260 non gazetted posts 211 posts are filled through permanent and contractual arrangements while 49 posts are vacant. Technical Assistant and Technician posts show a gap of 4 vacancies out of 37 sanctioned positions, while key support roles such as workshop workers remain completely vacant with all 6 posts unfilled.   Several specialised healthcare support services are also understaffed at GMC Baramulla as posts of Psychiatric Social Worker, Tuberculosis and Chest Diseases Health Visitor, Prosthetic and Orthotic Technician besides Rehabilitation Worker are lying vacant. Against sanctioned strength of  21 posts of Senior Nurses none has been filled till date while four posts of Nursing Supervisor are vacant as well. Out of 59 sanctioned gazetted posts, only 25 are in position, leaving 34 posts vacant.  Key specialties remain understaffed as well. There are no Senior Consultants in Medicine, Surgery or Ophthalmology at GMC Baramulla. Consultant posts in Medicine, Paediatrics, Psychiatry, Orthopaedics, ENT, Radiology and Gynaecology also show vacancies, while Medical Officers face a shortfall of 16 posts out of sanctioned 29 posts. The non gazetted staff situation is equally concerning as against 100 sanctioned posts, only 44 are filled, leaving 56 vacancies.  Nursing services are under strain with 21 vacancies in Junior Grade Nurses and 4 vacancies among Senior Nurses. Laboratory, pharmacy, dental, X Ray, theatre and technical sections also report multiple vacant posts, affecting routine and emergency services.

Washington, Jan 20: Widespread smartphone and social media use among children is driving a sharp rise in depression, anxiety and suicide, top American lawmakers and experts have said calling it a public health crisis that demands urgent government action.  Parents are increasingly alarmed by the amount of time children spend on screens and the nature of the content they consume, said Senator Ted Cruz, during a Senate Commerce Committee hearing titled “Plugged Out: Examining the Impact of Technology on America’s Youth.” Cruz said children aged 8 to 12 now spend an average of 5.5 hours a day on screens, while teenagers spend more than 8.5 hours a day.  “More than half of a teenager’s waking hours are spent staring at a screen,” he said, calling the trend deeply troubling for parents and educators. Psychologist Jean Twenge told lawmakers that the youth mental health crisis accelerated sharply after 2012, when smartphones became widespread and social media use shifted from optional to nearly mandatory for adolescents. “Clinical-level depression doubled among adolescents and young adults between 2011 and 2019,” Twenge said. She added that emergency room visits for self-harm doubled among girls aged 15 to 19 and quadrupled among girls aged 10 to 14 over the same period, while suicide rates in those age groups also doubled. Twenge said the timing of the mental health decline did not align with economic factors but closely tracked the rise of smartphones and social media. "This was the first time the majority of Americans owned smartphones,” she said, describing it as a pivotal moment for adolescent behavior. Noting that social media platforms are deliberately designed to capture attention, using algorithms that keep young users scrolling, Ranking Member Maria Cantwell cited research showing that teenagers spend more than an hour a day on smartphones during school hours alone, often on platforms such as Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. Cantwell said studies have linked heavy social media use to higher rates of anxiety, depression and isolation among youth. She also cited findings showing that roughly 40 percent of teens exhibit concerning patterns of media addiction, which she said doubles the risk of suicidal behavior. Pediatrician Jenny Radesky said many digital products used by children were never designed with youth development in mind. “Most digital products used by youth were designed by adults for adults and retrofitted for children after harms were recognized,” she said. Radesky warned that engagement-driven designs often conflict with basic needs such as sleep, homework and family interaction. She said frequent notifications, algorithmic feeds and compulsive design features make it difficult for children to disengage, contributing to stress and emotional dysregulation. Several senators expressed concern that schools are compounding the problem by issuing internet-connected devices to students with limited safeguards. Cruz said many parents find it harder to manage screen time when children are required to use laptops or tablets for schoolwork. “There are not many parents who think it has become easier to help their kids when schools send them home with a tablet,” he said, adding that technology in classrooms should be evaluated for whether it improves learning or causes harm. Experts also warned that sleep deprivation and reduced face-to-face interaction are worsening the crisis. Twenge said teens now spend significantly less time with friends in person and are sleeping less than previous generations, both factors strongly linked to poor mental health outcomes. Lawmakers from both parties said the problem is likely to intensify as artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in platforms used by children, increasing exposure to addictive and emotionally manipulative content. (IANS)

Srinagar, Jan 19: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday laid the foundation stone for Meerz Health Care Hospital in Srinagar. This will be 180-bedded super speciality hospital and boost medical infrastructure and enhance healthcare services for Srinagar city and nearby Districts. The Lieutenant Governor congratulated and extended his best wishes to the Meerz Group and everyone associated with the hospital. He highlighted that the private investment in healthcare infrastructure is the cornerstone of sustainable national progress and lifeline for the society.  “Healthcare is the bedrock for building stable, vibrant and prosperous society. Industry leaders in healthcare sector must focus on world-class infrastructure to create a resilient society,” the Lieutenant Governor said. Managing Director Meerz Group Farooq Mir, Chairperson J&K Waqf Board Dr Darakhshan Andrab, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, SSP Srinagar Dr GV Sundeep Chakravarthy, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo, senior officials, medical professionals and prominent citizens from different walks of life attended the foundation laying ceremony.

Srinagar, Jan 12: The Food Safety Department of Jammu and Kashmir has busted a module involved in the manufacture and sale of fake honey and desi ghee in Srinagar, which was being passed off as home-made products. Officials said a team of food safety officers conducted raids at multiple locations in the Barthana and Qamarwari areas of the Srinagar, during which the illegal manufacturing unit was detected. During the operation, the team recovered a large quantity of hydrogenated oil, which was allegedly being used to prepare a mixture sold as desi ghee at roadside outlets. Officials further said that sugar and other material used in the preparation of a mixture being sold as locally produced honey were also seized from the premises. The department has initiated further investigation to identify the supply chain and take action against those involved, under relevant provisions of the Food Safety Act.

Srinagar, Jan 10: Over 72% of children under the age of five are suffering from anaemia in Jammu and Kashmir, one of the highest rates in the country. Experts warn that this alarming trend poses serious risks to the growth, immunity, and development of the region’s youngest population. As per the 'Children in India 2025'  report by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, 72.7 per cent of children, including 73.9% male and 71.4% females, are anaemic in J&K which includes 73.5 per cent in rural areas and 70.1 per cent in urban areas. Doctors termed it a serious public health concern. "When a child is anaemic, their blood lacks enough healthy red blood cells or haemoglobin needed to carry oxygen throughout the body," the doctors said. "This leads to fatigue, weakened immunity, delayed growth, impaired brain development, lowered learning ability, and increased risk of infections," they said. Dr Shabeena Shah, a child specialist, said the most common cause of anaemia worldwide and in India is nutritional deficiency, especially iron deficiency. "Young children have high iron needs for rapid growth, but many diets do not supply enough iron or other vital nutrients like folate and vitamin B12," she said. "Iron Deficiency Anaemia (IDA) is the predominant form responsible for a large share of anaemia cases in toddlers and young children." According to the doctor, a diet too reliant on staple grains without enough iron-rich foods (like leafy greens, lentils, eggs, meat, fortified cereals) worsens this deficiency. She said the children whose mothers are anaemic themselves are more likely to be anaemic. Low maternal iron stores during pregnancy limit the amount of iron the baby receives before birth and through early infancy, Dr Shah added. Dr Showkat Hussain, another doctor, said that after six months of age, breast milk alone is not enough to meet a baby’s iron requirements. He said that if complementary foods aren’t introduced properly or are low in iron, the risk of anaemia increases. He added that parasitic infections like hookworm and other gastrointestinal infections can cause blood loss and reduce nutrient absorption, contributing significantly to anaemia. Dr Hussain added that inclusive breastfeeding for the first six months provides optimal nutrition and helps build immunity. "Breast milk contains iron that is easily absorbed by infants, helping protect against anaemia in early infancy. However, after 6 months, iron stores from birth get depleted, and complementary foods need to be introduced. If the complementary diet lacks iron-rich foods, anaemia risk rises," he added. Doctors said that inadequate complementary feeding, such as giving mostly watery cereals or liquid foods without iron enrichment, can worsen anaemia. They added that eating fried or junk foods does not directly cause anaemia, but it contributes indirectly by displacing nutritious foods in a child’s diet, providing empty calories with little iron, vitamins, or minerals. Doctors called for introducing iron-rich complementary foods after six months, such as meat, eggs, green leafy vegetables, lentils, beans, pair iron foods with vitamin C-rich foods (like citrus fruits, tomatoes) to improve iron absorption and avoid overreliance on packaged snacks and fried foods. They said the government programmes, such as Anaemia Mukt Bharat and Mission Poshan 2.0, provide iron and folic acid supplements for children and mothers. The weekly iron supplementation and fortified foods can substantially reduce anaemia prevalence, the doctors said, adding that routine deworming and immunisation help reduce anaemia caused by parasites and infections. (KNO

Says Ayush has vital role in preventive, promotive, holistic healthcare Jammu, Jan 10: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo Saturday chaired a review meeting to take stock of the progress achieved under the National Ayush Mission (NAM), with emphasis on service delivery, infrastructure creation and outreach initiatives aimed at strengthening Ayush-based healthcare across the districts of J&K. Secretary H&ME; Principal GMC Srinagar, Commissioner FDA, Director, Health Kashmir and Jammu division, Director, Ayush and other concerned officers were present in the meeting. During the meeting, the Chief Secretary was informed that all 523 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (Ayush) across the UT have been fully operationalized since 31st March 2025. These centres are providing a wide range of Ayush wellness interventions and patient care services based on Ayush principles and practices. Reviewing the status of infrastructure development, it was apprised that the 50-bedded Integrated Ayush Hospital at Chawalgam, Kulgam, has been completed and made fully operational. The hospital recorded an OPD footfall of 12,852 patients during 2024–25 and 5,546 patients during 2025–26 up to December 2025. An amount of Rs 105 lakh has been approved under SAAP 2025–26 for completion of allied works, including landscaping, herbal garden development and other facilities, besides manpower support. The meeting was further informed that the 50-bedded Integrated Ayush Hospital at Billawar, Kathua, has achieved around 80 percent physical progress, with finishing works such as tiling and aluminum works underway. An allocation of Rs 70 lakh has been approved for construction of the boundary wall, and the project is scheduled for completion by March 2026. Similarly, the 10-bedded Integrated Ayush Hospital at Gadhi Garh, Jammu, has been made operational in the building of Sub-Centre Lower Gadhi Garh. OPD services at the facility have catered to 7,609 patients during 2024–25 and 4,713 patients during 2025–26 up to December 2025. An amount of Rs 122.50 lakh has been approved for construction of an additional block and engagement of manpower. The Chief Secretary reviewed the implementation of Ayush Public Health Programmes, and it was reported that targets have been exceeded in several areas. Under the National Programme for Prevention and Management of Osteoarthritis and other Musculoskeletal Disorders, 62 units have been operationalized, with 59,628 people screened and 48,576 patients provided Ayush treatment. Highlighting the performance the Director, Ayush, Dr Suresh Sharma apprised the meeting that under SUPRAJA, focusing on maternal and neonatal health, 33 units have been made functional, while 40 units each have been operationalized under AYURVIDYA for school health and KARUNYA for palliative care. He further divulged that the VAYO MITRA programme for geriatric healthcare is being implemented through 22 units, benefiting thousands of senior citizens. He added that the Mobile Medical Units and NPCDCS components are also expanding Ayush outreach to remote and underserved areas. The meeting also reviewed the outcomes of Ayush wellness interventions delivered through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. It was given out that during 2024–25 and 2025–26, lakhs of beneficiaries were reached through yoga sessions, OPD consultations, distribution of medicines, non-communicable disease screening, Prakriti Parikshan, and community awareness initiatives, reflecting the growing acceptance of Ayush services among the public. On financial progress, it was informed that during 2024–25, an expenditure of over 71 percent was achieved under NAM. For 2025–26, funds amounting to Rs 37.31 Cr have been on-boarded through SNA-SPARSH, with significant releases already made to implementing agencies. Overall expenditure of over 80 percent is expected to be achieved by the end of March 2026. The Chief Secretary also reviewed progress in Ayush educational institutions, including Government Ayurvedic, Unani and Homeopathic Medical Colleges. Academic activities, infrastructure strengthening, creation of teaching and non-teaching posts and approvals for new courses were discussed as part of the efforts to strengthen human resource capacity in Ayush systems. Measures undertaken to enhance the visibility of Ayush in the UT were also highlighted. Large-scale IEC and BCC campaigns have been conducted across the districts of the UT, covering lakhs of beneficiaries through themes such as Har Ghar Ayush, Yoga and Meditation, Nasha Mukt Abhiyan, Anemia Mukt Bharat, Poshan Abhiyan, Millets awareness and observance of Ayurveda Day. Digital and social media outreach, along with regular TV and radio interactions, have further amplified public engagement, the meeting was informed. Discussing future plans, the meeting outlined proposals for establishment of Government Homeopathic Medical College at Kathua, setting up of 10/30/50-bedded Integrated Ayush Hospitals in remaining districts, establishment of a Government Ayurvedic Medical College and Hospital in Baramulla, strengthening of Ayush public health programmes in all Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, and operationalization of tele-consultation services through e-Sanjeevani. Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo emphasized timely completion of all ongoing projects, effective utilization of funds and further integration of Ayush services with the mainstream healthcare system. He reiterated that Ayush has a vital role in preventive, promotive and holistic healthcare, and directed the concerned to sustain momentum for ensuring accessible, affordable and people-centric Ayush healthcare services across the length and breadth of J&K.

Calls for streamlining procedures, removing bottlenecks delaying appointments and posting of specialist doctors Jammu, Jan 9: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakina Friday emphasized on the need for timely referral of vacant posts to address shortages of doctors, paramedics and other support staff in healthcare institutions across Jammu and Kashmir.  The Health Minister made these remarks while chairing a meeting at Civil Secretariat here to review the status of vacancies of different categories of posts at  various levels and progress on referral of  posts in Government Medical Colleges (GMCs) and  Health and Medical department across Jammu and Kashmir. The review meeting was convened to assess the existing manpower gaps and expediting recruitment process to strengthen healthcare delivery at all levels. During the meeting, the minister emphasised on the need for timely referral of vacant posts to address shortages of doctors, paramedics and support staff in hospitals and medical institutions. She sought detailed updates on sanctioned posts, vacancies and the status of selections being processed through recruiting agencies. She stressed that efficient human resource forms the backbone of the healthcare system and directed officials to streamline procedures and remove bottlenecks delaying appointments as well as posting of specialists in deserving areas. “Cancel attachments of all doctors and paramedics and post them in areas facing acute shortage of staff," Sakina Itoo directed the officers. She further asked all Principals of GMCs and Directors to ascertain the requirement of doctors and specialists in their respective medical institutions and make a proper plan for posting of required staff at these places. She also stressed on both Directors for rationalisation of staff in order to fill necessary manpower gaps of specialists in far flung areas. She further directed the Principals for timely finalisation of recruitment rules for all categories of posts so that the process of recruitment is expedited and the vacant posts are filled timely. The minister also laid special emphasis on adopting a proactive and compassionate approach towards victims of drug abuse and highlighted the need to strengthen de-addiction and rehabilitation services. She also stressed early identification of substance abuse cases and providing comprehensive medical, psychological and social support to affected individuals. "Drug abuse need to be addressed as a serious public health as well as societal issue. The officers must enhance awareness programmes, expand counselling services and improve infrastructure at de-addiction centres to facilitate effective treatment and rehabilitation of victims," she said. She reiterated the government’s commitment to a people-centric healthcare system saying that timely recruitment, robust institutional support and a humane approach towards vulnerable sections, including drug abuse victims, remain top priorities of the government. She said government was committed to improving patient care and ensuring equitable health services, particularly in peripheral and underserved areas. She underscored that strengthening GMCs and health institutions with adequate staff would enhance health care service delivery across Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by Secretary Health and Medical Education Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Principals of all GMCs (Srinagar, Jammu, Anantnag, Baramulla, Rajouri, Kathua, Doda, Udhampur and Handwara), Principal SKIMS Medical College, Director Health Services  Jammu and Kashmir besides the senior officers of the department, either in person or through video conferencing.

Srinagar, Jan 8: Medical experts have underlined the decisive role of diet and nutrition in determining fertility outcomes for both men and women amid rising infertility concerns among couples in Kashmir. Doctors say food habits directly influence hormonal balance, reproductive health, and the quality of sperm and eggs. According to health experts, changing lifestyles marked by increased consumption of processed foods, sedentary routines and widespread nutritional deficiencies are increasingly contributing to fertility-related problems—often remaining unnoticed until couples seek medical intervention. Dr Shaheena Khan, gynaecologist at the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK), said nutrition is among the most crucial yet neglected pillars of reproductive health. “Diet has a direct impact on fertility as it affects hormonal balance, ovulation, sperm production and the overall health of reproductive organs in both men and women,” she said. She highlighted the strong connection between body weight and fertility, explaining that both obesity and being underweight can disrupt normal reproductive functions. “Excess body fat can cause hormonal imbalances and irregular ovulation, while being underweight may suppress ovulation altogether. Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition is essential for conception,” she noted. Dr Shaheena further said diets rich in fruits and vegetables provide vital antioxidants—such as vitamins C and E, zinc and selenium—which help reduce oxidative stress, a major factor damaging sperm and egg cells. “Iron is particularly important for women as it supports ovulation and lowers the risk of ovulatory infertility, while vitamin D plays a key role in reproductive hormone production. Vitamin D deficiency is increasingly being linked with infertility in both men and women,” she added. Echoing similar views, gynaecologist Dr Javid Reshie said fertility is shaped not only by medical conditions but also by everyday lifestyle and dietary choices. “Excessive intake of alcohol and caffeine can negatively affect fertility, while trans fats found in processed and fast foods impair insulin sensitivity and ovulation,” he said. Dr Reshie expressed concern over declining sperm quality among men, calling it an emerging public health issue. “A diet rich in antioxidants, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids and healthy fats can significantly improve sperm count, motility and morphology. Men should avoid processed meats, sugary foods and excessive soy intake, as these can adversely affect testosterone levels,” he said. For women, particularly those suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), dietary choices play a crucial role. “A low-glycaemic-index diet helps regulate insulin levels and improves ovulation in women with PCOS, thereby increasing their chances of conception,” he added. Both doctors stressed that fertility should be viewed as a shared responsibility between partners. They also emphasised the importance of preconception nutrition, even before couples plan pregnancy. “Increasing infertility cases are not always linked to major diseases. In many instances, simple dietary corrections and healthy lifestyle changes can help restore reproductive balance,” they said. The doctors advised adopting a nutrient-rich diet comprising fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, dairy, nuts, seeds and healthy fats, while limiting processed foods, sugary drinks and trans fats. “For long-term reproductive well-being and infertility prevention, people must prioritise healthy eating habits, regular physical activity and timely medical consultation. Fertility begins with nutrition,” they said. Doctors further pointed out that infertility is not solely a woman’s issue, noting that up to 50 per cent of infertility cases involve male factors. “A balanced diet helps protect reproductive cells, maintain hormonal balance and improve overall fertility potential in both sexes,” they added.

New Delhi, Jan 8: A higher intake of industrially processed foods and beverages containing preservatives used to prolong shelf life may increase the risk of cancer, according to a new study published in The BMJ. The study found that people consuming greater amounts of several commonly used preservatives—mainly non-antioxidant additives—faced a higher cancer risk compared to non-consumers or those with lower intake. These preservatives include potassium sorbate, potassium metabisulfite, sodium nitrite, potassium nitrate and acetic acid. Researchers observed that total sorbates, particularly potassium sorbate, were linked to a 14 per cent higher risk of overall cancer and a 26 per cent increased risk of breast cancer. Total sulfites were associated with a 12 per cent rise in overall cancer risk. Sodium nitrite intake was linked to a 32 per cent higher risk of prostate cancer, while potassium nitrate was associated with a 13 per cent increase in overall cancer risk and a 22 per cent rise in breast cancer risk. Similarly, total acetates were linked to a 15 per cent increase in overall cancer risk and a 25 per cent higher risk of breast cancer, while acetic acid alone was associated with a 12 per cent increased risk of overall cancer. Among antioxidant preservatives, only total erythorbates and sodium erythorbate were found to be associated with a higher incidence of cancer. “This study provides new insights that could support future re-evaluation of the safety of these food additives by health authorities, balancing their benefits in food preservation against potential cancer risks,” the research team from Université Paris Cité, France, said. The researchers added that public health guidance already strongly recommends reducing intake of processed meat and alcohol, offering practical steps for individuals even as evidence on the carcinogenic effects of preservatives continues to emerge. While further research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms, the study noted that several of these compounds may disrupt immune and inflammatory pathways, potentially contributing to cancer development. The analysis included 1,05,260 cancer-free participants aged 15 years and above and examined 17 individual preservatives, including citric acid, lecithins, sulfites, ascorbic acid, sodium nitrite, potassium sorbate, sodium erythorbate, potassium metabisulfite and potassium nitrate. During the follow-up period, 4,226 participants were diagnosed with cancer, including 1,208 cases of breast cancer, 508 prostate cancers, 352 colorectal cancers and 2,158 cases of other cancers.