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.

Chennai, Jan 8: Tamil Nadu has recorded the highest number of dengue cases throughout the country in 2025 while the fatalities have remained low owing to early detection and timely medical intervention, according to Union Health Ministry data. As per the official data, the state recorded 20,866 dengue cases and 12 deaths between January and November 2025. The health officials have attributed the high case count to the strength of Tamil Nadu’s disease surveillance and reporting system ruling out an uncontrolled outbreak. "The surveillance system tracks infections from the primary health centre (PHC) level to secondary and tertiary care hospitals," the official document reads. Kerala reported the highest number of dengue-related deaths, with 49 fatalities and 10,239 cases during the same period among the southern states. Meanwhile, 2384 cases and five deaths were reported in Andhra Pradesh while Telangana recorded 8139 cases with no deaths, and Karnataka reported 6,759 cases, also without any fatalities. Tamil Nadu’s dengue trend over the past five years showed a steady rise in reported cases. In 2021, the state logged 6,039 cases and eight deaths, followed by 6,430 cases and eight deaths in 2022. In 2023, cases rose to 9,121 with 12 deaths, and in 2024, the state recorded a sharp spike of 27,378 cases and 13 deaths. Health department officials said the consistently low mortality rate reflects the effectiveness of early diagnosis, clinical monitoring, and immediate treatment protocols. “The surveillance mechanism in Tamil Nadu is robust, and cases are captured accurately across all levels of healthcare,” an official said. According to Dr Janani Sankar, Medical Director, dengue cases have begun declining since the last week of December. “We are now seeing more cases of typhoid, diarrhoea, dysentery, and respiratory infections. These are largely linked to winter conditions and travel-related factors,” she said. Head of General Medicine at Government Stanley Medical College Hospital Dr S. Chandrasekar said dengue cases usually persist until February but began falling earlier this year due to reduced rainfall, particularly in Chennai. “Mosquito breeding comes down during winter, leading to fewer dengue cases. However, people must continue safe water storage practices, as uncovered containers can still become breeding grounds,” he said. Health authorities have urged public vigilance, stressing that prevention remains key even as case numbers decline.

KS News DeskJammu, March 23: J&K Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo Sunday held a detailed review of infrastructure and services upgradation in health sector across all districts of Jammu and Kashmir.The meeting thoroughly analysed the action taken upon progress on key construction projects, introduction of specialization courses like MD/MS, DM/MCH, and DNB, increase of 50 MBBS seats in new medical colleges, status of faculty recruitment besides addressing the challenge of shortage of doctors in remote areas along with reviewing the action plan for strengthening tertiary care services in all the newly established GMCs.Besides Secretary H&ME, the meeting was attended by Secretary, PWD, Secretary Technical H&ME, Director SKIMS, DG Budget, MD JKPCC, Principals of all GMCs, MD JKMSCL, Director Health, Jammu and Kashmir besides other concerned officers.During the meeting, Chief Secretary impressed upon the Principals of new GMCs to create an augmentation plan of their own to reduce the referrals from these health institutions. He asked them to dovetail the existing resources for making a comprehensive strategy to enhance the capacity of their medics in coordination with SKIMS and GMCs of Srinagar and Jammu.He stressed on taking swift measures to augment critical care services to save lives of the patients by making timely interventions.He impressed upon them to receive the requisite handholding from the SKIMS or GMC Jammu/Srinagar with respect to training of staff besides acquiring the small equipments, necessary consumables to deal with such emergencies.The Chief Secretary further enquired from each Principal of the medical college about the new specialized courses like MD/MS,DM/MCH, and DNB they had made applications for as per past directions.He made out that such applications needs to be vigorously pursued as per set norms so that the NMC approval is secured in favour of all of them.As far as the introduction of additional 50 MBBS seats are concerned, he stressed on securing the requisite faculty.He urged them to fill all the entry level posts besides taking steps like hiring of staff on academic arrangement where no feasible candidates are available to fill higher positions of Professors and Associate Professors.Moreover, while taking note of the availability of doctors in remote areas, he asked for encouraging the doctors to join such places by offering them the Hardship Allowance or Non-Practising Allowances.He directed for identifying all such healthcare institutions which are lying in far off areas and deficit in medical staff.In his presentation, Secretary, H&ME, Dr Syed Abid Rasheed Shah informed the meeting that a total of 333 applications have been submitted to enhance seat availability for MD/MS, DM/MCH, and DNB programs across various medical colleges here.He added that the approval has been received for two DM Neurology seats in GMC Srinagar and three Public Health Dentistry seats in IGGDC Jammu.Regarding the enhancement of additional 50 MBBS seats in new medical colleges, he made out that applications have been submitted by all nine medical colleges of the UT and these are waiting for the pre-requisite NMC inspection for their approval of the same.It was also revealed that three-member NMC Coordination Cell has been established under the Chairmanship of the Secretary Technical, H&ME Department to iron out any issues faced by colleges in this pursuit.With respect to faculty recruitment in New Medical Colleges, the meeting was informed that appointment orders have been issued for 50 faculty and gazetted positions.Additionally 51 candidates have received engagement orders under academic arrangements also.As far as the progress on major infrastructure and development projects is concerned, MD NHM, Nazim Zia informed the meeting that the work on key infrastructure projects is being expedited.He made out that the tendering and work allocation under the PM ABHIM scheme has been accelerated with work apace on several of these projects.He also mentioned that the works on all the critical care blocks in DHs, 9 Community Health Centers (CHCs), 236 Block Public Health Units (BPHUs) stands awarded, with 77 already started on the site.Other notable projects include the State Cancer Institutes, where the procurement of a Linear Accelerator (LINAC) is in its final stages for full functionality.The meeting also discussed the pace and progress on the balance works of New Medical Colleges at Kathua, Doda, Anantnag, Baramulla setting deadline for each of them.GMC Udhampur is set for completion by July 2025, with 75% of the work already finished.The progress on relocation of GMC, Handwara to some feasible site was also taken appraisal of. It was said that the relocation is in final stage.About the status of Specialities, the meeting was informed that the Pediatric Hospital in Srinagar is fully operational, providing advanced child healthcare services.The Super Specialty Hospital in Jammu had been provisioned with a state-of-the-art Cath Lab, to offer high-end cardiology services.Regarding augmentation of health services in other areas it was said that a 125-bedded hospital in Reshipora, Budgam, and a 100-bedded Maternal & Child Health Hospital in Lamberi are under construction, set to be completed in 2026.To tackle the shortage of doctors in underserved areas, the government is launching several initiatives including providing special hardship allowances, non-practicing allowance to attract medical professionals to remote locations besides fast-tracking the recruitment of medical officers.The meeting was apprised that over 275 medical officers are set to be appointed, with 582 non-gazetted vacancies referred to the Jammu & Kashmir Services Selection Board for immediate recruitment which would help in tiding over this staff deficit to a larger extent.

KS News Desk Jammu, Mar 19: Legislators in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Wednesday called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the mysterious deaths in Budhal, Rajouri.The government informed the House that various toxins were detected in samples collected from the area.During the Question Hour,  MLA Budhal Javed Iqbal Choudhary raised the demand for a CBI inquiry into the unexplained fatalities in his constituency. Different toxins have been found in the samples. It seems they were poisoned with a truckload of toxins, Choudhary  claimed.He alleged that these deaths are part of a larger conspiracy aimed at destabilizing peace in Jammu and Kashmir.These deaths shouldnt be viewed in isolation from the incidents in Kulgam and Kathua. It appears to be an attempt to destabilize peace, he added.He urged the government for a thorough investigation to uncover the cause of these deaths.MLA Surankote Choudhary Muhammad Akram supported the demand for a CBI probe.CPI(M) MLA Muhammad Yousuf Tarigami also voiced concern over the issue.The invisible hands behind these deaths must be unmasked. It is ironic that the cause of these deaths remains unknown. What happened there today could happen anywhere tomorrow," he said in the House.Responding to the demands, Minister in-charge of Health and Medical Education, Sakina Itoo informed the House that the government has done what it could do."We have done what we could. The Home Department is not under our control," she informed the House.She informed the House that an investigation by the Home Department is ongoing.Further steps will be taken once the investigation is completed, she said.The minister in-charge said the deaths were not caused by any disease.In a written reply, the minister informed the House that clinical reports, laboratory investigations, and environmental samples indicated that the incidents were not due to a communicable disease of bacterial or viral origin.According to the PGIMER Chandigarh report, traces of aluminum and cadmium were found.The CFSL Chandigarh report detected chlorfenapyr in the viscera samples of all 17 deceased. (KNO)

New Delhi, Feb 24: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday invited ten prominent personalities to join the national movement against obesity and promote awareness about healthy food consumption, aligning with his Fit India initiative.Among those nominated were Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, businessman Anand Mahindra, actor-turned-politician Dinesh Lal Yadav aka Nirahua, Olympic medalists Manu Bhaker and Mirabai Chanu, actors Mohanlal and R. Madhavan, singer Shreya Ghoshal, Rajya Sabha MP and philanthropist Sudha Murthy, and Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani.PM Modi urged these personalities to further nominate ten individuals each, amplifying the movement's reach and impact.Taking to X, the Prime Minister stated, "As mentioned in yesterday's Mann Ki Baat, I would like to nominate the following people to help strengthen the fight against obesity and spread awareness on reducing edible oil consumption in food. I also request them to nominate ten people each so that our movement gets bigger! Collectively, let us make India fitter and healthier."In his monthly radio program, 'Mann Ki Baat' on Sunday, PM Modi lauded India's rapid progress toward becoming a global sporting powerhouse and stressed the importance of leading a healthy life.During the address, he also highlighted a growing health concern -- obesity. Referring to discussions at the National Games' opening ceremony in Dehradun, he emphasised the urgent need to address India's rising obesity crisis.Citing World Health Organization data, he warned that one in every eight people in India is affected by obesity, with cases having doubled in recent years. More alarmingly, childhood obesity has increased fourfold.He pointed out that excessive weight is linked to numerous health complications, including heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension. However, he reassured that small yet meaningful lifestyle changes could help tackle the issue.To further this initiative, he invited Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra, boxer Nikhat Zareen, and renowned cardiologist Dr Devi Shetty to share their insights on combating obesity in the radio programme.The Prime Minister urged citizens to embrace healthier eating habits, particularly by reducing excessive oil consumption. He emphasised that making informed dietary choices is not merely a personal decision but a collective responsibility toward family and society."Using less oil in food and dealing with obesity is not just a personal choice but also our responsibility towards the family. Excessive use of oil in food can cause many diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension," he said."By making small changes in our food habits, we can make our future stronger, fitter, and disease-free. Therefore, without delay, we must increase our efforts in this direction and implement them in our lives. We can all do this together in a very playful and effective way," he said. (IANS)

Geneva, Feb 12: Communication with the US regarding the ongoing bird flu outbreak has become increasingly difficult because of the country's withdrawal from the UN health agency, said the World Health Organization (WHO). Christian Lindmeier, a WHO spokesperson, addressed the issue at a press briefing in Geneva late on Tuesday, explaining, "Communication is a challenge indeed. The traditional ways of contact have been cut", Xinhua news agency reported. However, he declined to elaborate.Since the outbreak of H5N1 bird flu in the US in April 2024, nearly 70 people, primarily farm workers have been infected.The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that while there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission and the public health risk remains low, individuals with prolonged exposure to birds, poultry, or livestock are at higher risks of infection.Concerns have been raised about the impact of the US withdrawal from the WHO, particularly regarding the sharing of critical information.On his inauguration day on January 20, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to pull the US out of the organisation.According to US media reports, some countries have privately expressed concerns over the possibility that the US might cease sharing information on emerging viruses, which could play a critical role in preventing the next pandemic.The situation has become more concerning following the recent discovery of a second strain of bird flu in dairy cattle in the US state of Nevada, prompting fears for the broader scope of the outbreak, Xinhua reported.The executive order signed by Trump on the withdrawal stated that the WHO mishandled the Covid pandemic and that the agency required "unfairly onerous payments" from the US that were disproportionate to the sums provided by other, larger countries, such as China.The US has long been the largest contributor to the WHO's mission, contributing $1.28 billion in 2022 and 2023 - $400 million more than Germany, the second-largest contributor.Meanwhile, the WHO "hopes the US will reconsider the decision, for the benefit of the health and well-being of millions of people around the globe." (IANS)

Jammu, Feb 04:Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo Tuesday said that Cancer was not just a medical challenge but it also leads to social and economic crisis that affects thousands of families across J&K.In her address during a day-long conference titled Mission Cancer J&K s Fight Against Cancer in the coming Decade at Government Medical College Jammu, the health minister said all the stakeholders should work collectively to enhance screening programs, promote preventive healthcare besides ensuring equitable access to modern treatment facilities across urban and rural areas for patients."There is an urgent need for a multi-faceted approach to tackle the rising incidences of cancer in Jammu and Kashmir," she said and highlighted the significance of early detection, advanced treatment infrastructure and public awareness, in reducing the burden of cancer.She also lauded the efforts of healthcare professionals, doctors and paramedics, acknowledging their role in changing the healthcare landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.She called for greater government support, increased funding for cancer research and expansion of palliative care services.She further said the present Government led by Omar Abdullah was committed to provide all possible assistance to Cancer patients with creation of best advanced facilities at both the State institutes of cancer at Jammu and Srinagar.The conference was organised by GMC Jammu in collaboration with BCPBF-The Cancer Foundation and Friends of GMC Jammu , to commemorate the World Cancer day.Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Dr. Farooq Abdullah, Secretary Health and Medical Education Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Director SKIMS Dr. Ashraf Ganai, Principal GMC Jammu Dr. Ashotush Gupta, noted Oncologist of J&K Dr. Sameer Kaul, Director ASCOMS Jammu, Deans of different specialties, HoDs, doctors and researchers besides large number of medical and paramedical students were present on the occasion.Addressing the gathering, Dr. Farooq Abdullah spoke about the role of medical professionals for the society. He highlighted that the medical is very noble profession which touches numerous lives.Speaking on the occasion, Secretary Health and Medical Education, spoke in length about the affect on families going through the burden of cancer.He also called for organising maximum awareness camps in schools and colleges so that people are made abreast about the cancer disease and myths associated with it.Principal GMC earlier in his welcome address, gave a brief about the evolution of GMC Jammu.

Jammu, Jan 30: Minister for Health and Medical Education (H&ME) Sakeena Itoo Thursday directed the officers of the health department to stay vigilant besides conducting routine screenings and engage with at-risk populations to detect any undiagnosed TB cases early.The minister issued the directions while taking a review on implementation of 100-Day Tuberculosis (TB) Elimination Campaign across Jammu and Kashmir."The officers, particularly both the Directors of health services should stay vigilant, conduct routine screenings and engage with at-risk populations to detect any undiagnosed cases early," the minister said.The minister asked the Deputy Commissioners to form squads in collaboration with colleges and higher educational institutions to conduct regular surprise inspections in these places."The Deputy Commissioners should identify vulnerable groups in their respective districts and conduct regular testing at these places for early detection of Tuberculosis (TB)," she said.Secretary Health and Medical Education Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah,  Mission Director National Health Mission, Deputy Commissioners of all districts, Director Finance Health and Medical Education, Director Health Services Jammu and Kashmir, Director Coordination New Medical Colleges, Principals of all Government Medical Colleges, CMOs of all districts and other concerned officers also attended the meeting.During the meeting, the Minister impressed upon the concerned Deputy Commissioners and respective CMOs to intensify testing and early detection activities, particularly in Gold Zone districts so that they also can achieve the status of TB free districts.She also instructed the health officials and district administrators to increase the frequency of screenings, conduct aggressive outreach programs and enhance community participation to curb spread of the disease effectively. Involve PRIs, ULBs and local religious preachers into the campaign as they have maximum reach to far off areas as well," she said.The Minister further called for identifying vulnerable groups in all districts, whether TB free or not. She also called for regular screening in TB free declared districts so that the TB is not relapsing there. Continuous testing and active surveillance are essential to prevent re-emergence and ensure the long-term success of elimination efforts," she said.Sakeena Itoo called for deployment of mobile testing vans for door-to-door screenings in far off areas for TB testing. Strengthen diagnostic infrastructure at the grassroots level as it is imperative for maintaining a healthy society , Sakeena said.She called for enhanced coordination among the  district TB officers, ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, local health units, local NGOs and Mohalla Committees to reinforce participation in TB prevention strategies.During the meeting, MD NHM gave a detailed presentation on the progress on implementation of 100 days TB Elimination Campaign across Jammu and Kashmir. He informed that the campaign aligns with Union Government s vision of achieving TB-free India by 2025 by accelerating TB detection, treatment and eradication efforts across country.The Minister also assessed measures being taken by respective district administrations and health department regarding the fight against drug menace across Jammu and Kashmir. She called upon the Deputy Commissioners for maximum deterrence in coordination with law enforcement agencies so that the society gets rid of this menace, which is destroying future of our youth. Elimination of drug menace requires a collaborative approach, involving government agencies, healthcare providers and the general public. We need to work in cohesion in ensuring that our society is free of this menace , she stated.She reiterated that the Omar Abdullah led government is committed to safeguard the health and well-being of its citizens. By addressing both the root causes and consequences of drug abuse, the government aims to foster healthier and more prosperous future for Jammu and Kashmir , Sakeena maintained. The minister further asked all Deputy Commissioners for rehabilitation of drug abuse victims by giving them skill and self-employment training in different courses during their time in drug de-addiction centres so that they can have employment avenues after rehabilitation. She also asked them for augmentation of infrastructure in their respective district so that this menace can be dealt with effectively.

Advises women to prioritise protein rich diet, exercise, peace of mindBaramulla, Jan 29: The Pune based renowned Rheumatologist Dr Varsha R Bhatt on Wednesday said that Rheumatological diseases were not limited to joints but can involve the whole body and prove lethal. She advised the women folk to prioritise their protein rich diet, exercise and peace of mind stating that these were the key precautionary measures to avoid Rheumatological illness.Talking to media persons on the sidelines of the free health camp organised in Baramulla she that there was less awareness about the joint pain problems among the women folk."People do not know what Rheumatology is. These diseases are not limited to just joints. These diseases can be systemic and can involve the whole body. It can involve the heart, the lungs, the liver, the kidneys, even the brain. It can be lethal," she said.Dr Varsha Bhatt is a Rheumatologist with more than 20 years of experience in internal medicine and over eight years of experience in field of Rheumatology.She is a Professor and Consultant Rheumatologist in the Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology in Bharati Vidyapeeth Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pune.Dr. Varsha said that these diseases were increasing in the country and can be due to pollution or viral infections."These diseases increase in winter so we are trying to create awareness about it and focus on women. We focus on Rheumatological Illnesses," she said.She further said that focus should not be only on women patients but caregivers should be given some attention as well."If there is a patient at home, all the family members become caregivers. We should also think about them. What kind of financial and emotional stresses they face," she said.She said that these days lot of awareness for being done about Mental Health Awareness."There are some key factors  like diet and nutrition. People should think positive and do regular exercise. Women should eat diet rich in Calcium. Women usually keep themselves at the last in families. But they have to prioritise their health, diet, nutrition, and positive thinking," Dr. Varsha said.She said that Rheumatological illness are long lasting diseases but people should not lose hope about how to treat it."They have to make themselves strong from within. Caregivers should understand that these diseases are real. These diseases do not just come from the mind. Sometimes people think that it is coming from the mind," she said.She said that it was problematic to maintain proper schedule of exercising in prevailing cold weather in Kashmir but it was equally important as well."If we continue doing exercise only then you will be able to beat these diseases," she said.

DC meets relocated individuals to inquire about their wellbeing Rajouri, Jan 23: The close contacts of affected families of village Badhaal have been shifted to Nursing College in Rajouri on the direction of Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma to provide them instant and better preventive care. The decision was taken to ensure better preventative care and close monitoring of their health, as tests revealed the presence of certain toxins, not bacterial or viral infection. Close contacts and High risk individuals have been shifted to the Nursing College to expedite care, as the distance from Badhaal to Rajouri causes delays in responding to medical needs the DC said. To review the arrangements at the Nursing College, the DC chaired a meeting and inspected the accommodation facilities. He also interacted with the relocated individuals, inquiring about their well-being. Addressing their concerns, the DC assured that their domestic animals will be taken care of at Badhaal by the Animal Husbandry and Agriculture Departments. Key measures taken by the district administration included the Installation of CCTV cameras to monitor meal preparation and distribution, with all activities videographed for transparency and deployment of female officers for the welfare of women. In addition, directions were issued to the Chief Education Officer to facilitate regular classes for the children. An awareness camp was also held by the Labour Department to educate the affected individuals and issue e-Shram cards. The District administration is also going to organise Daksh Kisan courses and skill development programs for the relocated individuals through ITI. Additionally, four patients were airlifted yesterday for advanced treatment to different hospitals. One patient Ajaz was shifted to PGI Chandigarh and is now stable. Six other individuals are being treated at GMC Rajouri, including one critical patient whose condition has now stabilized. The DC visited the hospital this morning to inquire about the condition of the patients. Additional District Development Commissioner Dr. Raj Kumar Thapa is closely monitoring the centers to ensure seamless coordination among all departments. The district administration is diligently implementing the directions issued by the Chief Secretary and Divisional Commissioner Jammu. The Deputy Commissioner appealed to the general public to stay calm, reiterating that the issue is not due to a bacterial or viral disease. Preventative measures are in place to address the situation effectively.

Srinagar, Jan 22: Three more cases of 'mysterious illness' have been reported in the Badhaal area of Rajouri district of Jammu, who are being shifted for advanced medical attention.An official said that on Tuesday, Aijaz Ahmad a 25-year-old youth had some symptoms of the mysterious disease, who was later taken to GMC Jammu from where he  was shifted to PGI Chandigarh."Today two more cases of the same sickness have been reported from Badhaal and these two are also being shifted for advanced medical attention," the official said.Meanwhile, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar visited the Koteranka area for proper monitoring and supervision.As already reported by Kashmir Square, 17 persons have so far lost their lives in the area in the last 50 days while the government is yet to ascertain the reasons for the deaths.Investigation at various levels has been going on to ascertain the cause of these deaths.Amid the government claims that there is no virus or infection, the Badhaal area has been declared a containment zone and the houses of affected families have been sealed and their close contacts have been shifted to GMC Rajouri for check ups.The teams have been deployed to the village. (KNO)