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India Edition Thursday, 29 October 2026
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Ayushman Bharat Data Could Transform India's Healthcare System
Health

Ayushman Bharat Data Could Transform India's Healthcare System

NITI Aayog member Dr M Srinivas says India's digital health data could improve healthcare through artificial intelligence and connected medical records. He also called for stronger hospital safety standards, more affordable services in smaller cities and greater emphasis on preventing non-communicable diseases.

High Blood Pressure Without Symptoms Can Increase Stroke Risk
Health

High Blood Pressure Without Symptoms Can Increase Stroke Risk

High blood pressure can remain undetected for years because it often causes no obvious symptoms. Over time, uncontrolled hypertension can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of stroke. Regular blood pressure checks, healthy lifestyle choices and appropriate medical care can help reduce the risk.

Walking for Weight Loss: Can It Also Build Muscle?
Health

Walking for Weight Loss: Can It Also Build Muscle?

Walking is a low-impact exercise that can support weight loss, improve cardiovascular health and help people stay active. However, its ability to build muscle is limited. Combining regular walks with resistance training and suitable nutrition can help support muscle maintenance during weight loss.

Smartwatches Can Improve Health Habits, But Have Limits
Health

Smartwatches Can Improve Health Habits, But Have Limits

Smartwatches can encourage healthier routines by tracking daily steps, heart rate, sleep duration and physical activity. However, health experts caution that wearable readings are not always medically conclusive. Users should understand the limitations of these devices and seek professional advice when symptoms or concerning alerts arise.

Is Rabies Risk Rising in the US? Officials Warn of More Human Exposures
Health

Is Rabies Risk Rising in the US? Officials Warn of More Human Exposures

Several US states have reported unusual rabies activity in animals, prompting renewed public health concern. Federal officials have also warned of increases in human exposures requiring preventive treatment. However, no human rabies cases had been reported in the United States in 2026 as of the article’s publication date.

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New Heart Health Framework Targets Rising Cardiovascular Risks in Women
Health

New Heart Health Framework Targets Rising Cardiovascular Risks in Women

Four major US medical organisations have introduced a coordinated framework to improve heart disease prevention and care for girls and women. The recommendations address cardiovascular risks across puberty, reproductive years, pregnancy, perimenopause and postmenopause, encouraging earlier detection and better coordination between healthcare specialists.

West Bengal C-Section Rate Hits 44.5%, Raising Health Concerns
Health

West Bengal C-Section Rate Hits 44.5%, Raising Health Concerns

West Bengal's Caesarean section rate has reached 44.5%, according to the supplied NFHS-6 figures, compared with the national average of 27.2%. The high rate, particularly in private healthcare facilities, has renewed concerns about whether Caesarean deliveries are always medically necessary.

Kerala Government Seeks Further Cuts in Generic SMA Drug Cost
Health

Kerala Government Seeks Further Cuts in Generic SMA Drug Cost

The Kerala government has defended its decision to switch to a generic medicine for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and said it will explore further price reductions. Health Minister K. Muraleedharan also said the government aims eventually to provide medicines free of cost to all SMA patients.

Double Fortified Salt Offers Affordable Approach to Anaemia
Health

Double Fortified Salt Offers Affordable Approach to Anaemia

Double Fortified Salt (DFS), which contains both iron and iodine, is being highlighted as an affordable way to help address iron deficiency and anaemia in India. Advocates say its widespread use in everyday cooking could support existing nutrition programmes, although it is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment.

Amgen Drug Combination Extends Survival in Lung Cancer Trial
Health

Amgen Drug Combination Extends Survival in Lung Cancer Trial

Amgen's Imdelltra combined with AstraZeneca's Imfinzi reduced the risk of death by 58% in a Phase 3 trial involving patients with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer. Nearly 80% of patients receiving the combination were alive at one year, compared with 53% on Imfinzi alone.

Study Finds Higher Absorbable Protein in Plant-Based Meat
Health

Study Finds Higher Absorbable Protein in Plant-Based Meat

A study by CSIR-IHBT and GFI India found that five tested plant-based meat products had higher percentages of potentially bioavailable protein than their chicken counterparts in laboratory digestion tests. Researchers cautioned that the findings do not establish superior health benefits and require further investigation.

Study Finds Widespread Genetic Risk for Diabetes and Other Diseases
Health

Study Finds Widespread Genetic Risk for Diabetes and Other Diseases

A study published in Genome Medicine found that the average participant had a high genetic risk score for around three common conditions. Researchers analysed genome data from nearly one million individuals, highlighting why genetic susceptibility should not be confused with a medical diagnosis.

Friday
Vandalur Zoo Closed for Two Days After H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmation
Health

Vandalur Zoo Closed for Two Days After H5N1 Bird Flu Confirmation

Arignar Anna Zoological Park in Vandalur near Chennai remained closed to visitors on October 22 and 23, 2026, after H5N1 avian influenza was confirmed in water birds. Forest Department officials reported that seven birds had died at the zoo between October 3 and 7.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage: Benefits, Risks and Common Myths
Health

Lymphatic Drainage Massage: Benefits, Risks and Common Myths

Lymphatic drainage massage is gaining popularity as a wellness treatment, but experts caution against claims that it detoxifies the body or causes weight loss. The gentle massage technique may help manage swelling in certain circumstances, although it is not suitable for everyone.

FSSAI Issues Notices to Nestlé India, Zydus Wellness Over Product Claims
Health

FSSAI Issues Notices to Nestlé India, Zydus Wellness Over Product Claims

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued notices to Nestlé India and Zydus Wellness over claims made for infant nutrition products and Complan. The regulator has sought scientific evidence to substantiate advertised benefits, including claims related to digestion, immunity, growth and concentration.

₹8,447 Crore in Medicine Overcharging Claims Remain Outstanding
Health

₹8,447 Crore in Medicine Overcharging Claims Remain Outstanding

India has ₹8,447.4 crore in outstanding medicine overcharging claims, according to figures from the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority as of March 31, 2026. The Supreme Court has also questioned whether trade-margin restrictions introduced for anti-cancer medicines should be extended to other medicines and medical products.

21 October 2026
Study Flags Emotional and Physical Effects of Internet Use on Children
Health

Study Flags Emotional and Physical Effects of Internet Use on Children

A study supported by the Indian Council of Social Science Research has raised concerns about the emotional and physical effects of Internet use among school-going children. It highlights anxiety, sleep disturbances and mood changes, recommending digital literacy initiatives involving children, parents and schools.

13 October 2026