Category: Health

Amritsar, May 23 : Kidney stones are becoming increasingly common today, especially among younger adults who are constantly juggling long work hours, irregular eating habits, low water intake and high consumption of processed foods. What makes the condition difficult is that many people do not realise how strongly everyday lifestyle choices influence kidney stone formation until they experience severe pain or discomfort themselves said Dr. Manbir Singh, Consultant, Urology, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Amritsar.

While genetics and certain medical conditions can increase the risk, diet and hydration continue to play one of the biggest roles in prevention. The good part is that small and practical changes in daily habits can go a long way in lowering the chances of developing stones or preventing recurrence.

Why hydration matters more than most people think

According to National Institute of Health one of the simplest yet most overlooked reasons behind kidney stones is inadequate water intake. When the body remains dehydrated, urine becomes more concentrated. This allows minerals and salts to stick together and gradually form crystals that can eventually turn into stones.

Many people believe drinking water only when thirsty is enough, but thirst is often a late sign of dehydration. A simple way to understand hydration is by checking urine colour. A simple way to check hydration is by looking at the colour of your urine. If it is pale or light yellow, the body is usually getting enough fluids. Darker urine can often be a sign that you need to drink more water. We also recommend making plain water the main source of daily hydration. Coconut water, lemon water and plain buttermilk can also support fluid intake in moderation. However, sugary beverages, excess soft drinks and artificially sweetened drinks may increase the risk of stones in some individuals.

Simple dietary habits that can help lower risk

Many people immediately assume they need to completely avoid calcium when they hear about kidney stones. In reality, cutting down calcium unnecessarily may sometimes do more harm than good. A balanced intake of calcium from natural food sources like curd, milk and paneer can actually help bind oxalates in the gut and reduce stone formation risk.

At the same time, excess salt intake is something people should pay closer attention to. High sodium consumption can increase calcium levels in urine, which may contribute to stone development. Packaged snacks, instant foods, processed meats and restaurant meals often contain hidden sodium in large amounts.

Another important factor is moderation with foods high in oxalates for people who are already prone to stones. Spinach, beetroot, nuts and chocolate are nutritious foods, but excessive intake without balance may not be ideal for everyone.

Protein intake also plays an important role in kidney stone risk. Consuming large amounts of red meat and processed meat may increase uric acid levels in the body, which can contribute to stone formation in some people. On the other hand, adding more fruits, vegetables and fiber rich foods to the diet can help support better kidney health. Citrus fruits like lemons and oranges may also help because they contain citrate that is a compound that can reduce the chances of crystals forming in urine.

SCOTTSDALE, AZ. May 21, 2026 — A landmark, peer-reviewed global study representing the largest published evaluation of artificial intelligence in X-ray imaging has been published in Radiography, analyzing 258,373 X-rays from 100 medical centers across 26 countries and five continents. The study was led by Dr. Sean Raj, Chief Medical Officer and Chief Innovation Officer at SimonMed, who served as senior author.

SimonMed, one of the largest outpatient imaging providers in the United States, contributed U.S. clinical data and played a central role in the study’s design, execution, and analysis, reinforcing its leadership in the clinical validation of artificial intelligence in radiology. 

The study evaluated all four components of the Rayvolve® AI Suite as a unified clinical platform under real-world conditions, with no exclusions based on image quality or acquisition protocol. The system demonstrated high diagnostic performance across multiple use cases, including musculoskeletal trauma, chest imaging, automated measurements, and bone age assessment. AZtrauma achieved an AUC of 98.3% (sensitivity: 97.4%, specificity: 96.4%) across 195,706 musculoskeletal examinations. AZchest demonstrated an AUC of 97.8% (sensitivity: 96.7%, specificity: 87.9%) across 61,418 chest radiographs covering six pathology categories. AZmeasure and AZboneage delivered measurement precision within 1.83 degrees for angles, 1.1 mm for lengths, and a bone age estimation error of approximately six months.

Performance remained consistent across pathologies, anatomies, patient demographics, and global care settings, with all 258,373 images processed without a single technical failure, highlighting both the robustness and scalability of AI in real-world clinical environments.

SimonMed’s contribution to the study builds on a partnership that has deepened since 2023, when SimonMed selected AZmed as its AI partner for X-ray diagnostics following an independent evaluation across its outpatient network. That initial deployment demonstrated a 6x reduction in turnaround time for fracture cases and 98.5% sensitivity across SimonMed centers. SimonMed subsequently provided the clinical data that supported AZmed’s 2024 FDA 510(k) clearance for pediatric fracture detection. The inclusion of SimonMed’s U.S. imaging data in this 26-country study extends the collaboration from operational deployment and regulatory contribution to large-scale, independently published clinical evidence. 

“Validating a complete AI suite at this scale, across 100 centers in 26 countries, establishes a new standard for clinical evidence in radiology AI,” said Julien Vidal, CEO of AZmed. “SimonMed’s contribution at every stage of this journey, from early U.S. deployment through FDA clearance and now the largest published X-ray AI study, reflects the kind of clinical partnership that advances the entire field.” 

“This study represents a defining moment for AI in medical imaging,” said Dr. Sean Raj, Chief Medical Officer and Chief Innovation Officer at SimonMed. “We are proud to have led a global effort that not only validates AI performance at an unprecedented scale, but also reinforces the importance of rigorous, real-world clinical evidence. We are committed to continue our founding mission – to deliver high quality, accessible care at scale while measurably improving diagnostic quality for our radiologists and the patients they serve.” 

The study is available in Radiography.

With increasing concerns over water pollution, industrial contamination, and public health risks, the role of water testing laboratories has become more important than ever. Water quality testing helps identify harmful contaminants, assess safety standards, and ensure that water is suitable for drinking, industrial use, agriculture, and environmental applications. As urbanization and industrial activities continue to expand, regular water monitoring has become a crucial step in protecting both human health and natural ecosystems.

Choosing  the best water testing lab  is essential for accurate analysis and reliable results. Professional laboratories use advanced scientific techniques to test critical parameters such as pH, turbidity, heavy metals, microbial contamination, total dissolved solids (TDS), and chemical pollutants. These services help industries, households, and regulatory bodies make informed decisions about water safety while ensuring compliance with environmental and public health standards.

Water testing laboratories play a vital role in detecting contaminants at an early stage, preventing potential health hazards before they escalate. Contaminated water can contain harmful substances such as lead, arsenic, pesticides, bacteria, viruses, and industrial chemicals that may lead to serious diseases and long-term health complications. Through routine testing and laboratory-based analysis, these risks can be identified and controlled effectively.

In industrial sectors, water testing labs support quality control, wastewater treatment monitoring, and regulatory compliance. Industries rely on laboratory analysis to maintain process efficiency, prevent environmental pollution, and meet discharge standards set by authorities. Similarly, municipal bodies use water testing services to ensure safe drinking water distribution and maintain public sanitation systems.

Modern water testing laboratories also use advanced technologies such as ICP-MS, GC-MS, microbiological analysis, and real-time monitoring systems to provide highly accurate and timely results. These scientific methods improve contamination detection and help create data-driven water management strategies.

As water quality challenges continue to grow worldwide, water testing laboratories remain a critical pillar of public health, environmental protection, and sustainable resource management. Their role in ensuring safe water access, preventing contamination, and supporting regulatory compliance makes them indispensable in building a healthier and more sustainable future.

PALO ALTO, CA. May 21 – Canopy, a connected safety platform for hospitals and health systems focused on protecting nurses and staff, announced a new case study today with Pennsylvania health system WellSpan Health, showing measurable shifts after rolling out a systemwide workplace violence prevention strategy supported by Canopy’s technology.

According to the joint case study, WellSpan Health saw a 66% reduction in workplace violence-related DART (Days Away, Restricted or Transferred) injuries within a year of implementation. The initiative centralized public safety operations and emergency response protocols into a unified system, supported by wearable and RTLS technology that allows staff to quickly signal for help during escalating situations.

“One of WellSpan’s organizational goals is zero harm, not just in workplace violence but across all injuries,” said Bill White, Vice President of Public Safety at WellSpan Health. “We have an obligation to provide a safe environment for anyone who enters our facilities,” White noted that before Canopy, alerts were often delayed, and staff didn’t have a dependable way to quickly signal for help. “That’s changed with Canopy,” he said. “Our team members now have immediate access to support at the push of a button, which helps us respond faster and makes them feel more supported in real time.”

WellSpan identified several operational gaps across its growing network of hospitals and care sites before launching the initiative. Emergency alerts varied by location, and staff often had to locate a phone or secondary device before requesting security support, which slowed response during critical moments. After implementing Canopy, WellSpan rolled out instant notifications, integrated the DASA (Dynamic Appraisal of Situational Aggression) framework, and enhanced data validation tools to improve response times and increase staff visibility during incidents.

Workplace violence in hospitals continues to be one of healthcare’s fastest-growing operational and workforce challenges. The WellSpan and Canopy report was released during National Nurses Month, highlighting this ongoing, yet underrecognized issue throughout U.S. health systems. WellSpan leaders noted that the initiative was designed to reduce physical incidents while also shifting the organization toward a more proactive safety model across departments and campuses.

“Healthcare organizations everywhere are looking for better ways to support and protect frontline staff,” said Shan Sinha, CEO of Canopy Works. “The kind of impact Canopy and WellSpan have achieved together is exactly what Canopy strives for: creating environments where staff can get help quickly, feel supported in high-stress situations, and focus on delivering care safely. We’re proud to partner with WellSpan in building a stronger culture of safety for healthcare workers every day.”

Healthcare workforce safety has become an increasingly important area of focus nationally as organizations seek new approaches to meet evolving expectations around workforce well-being and retention in clinical environments. Industry analysts and healthcare leaders have pointed to workplace safety as a key component of long-term workforce sustainability.

Canopy is creating a standardized process for emergency response and safety across its expanding network. With WellSpan as a strong example of success, Canopy continues to support healthcare organizations in building safer environments for nurses, staff, patients, and visitors.

Kolkata | May 21: While many individuals wait for an acute toothache to signal a problem, dental experts are highlighting a growing concern regarding the “silent” progression of oral health issues. Most dental complications, from cavities to gum disease, begin without immediate pain or visible symptoms, leading to a dangerous cycle of postponement. This delay often allows minor issues to transform into significant long-term damage before a patient even realizes a problem exists.

The hidden progression of neglect begins when hygiene is overlooked, allowing plaque to harden into tartar within a matter of days. Once tartar forms, it cannot be removed by standard brushing, creating a foundation for chronic inflammation, enamel erosion, and eventual tooth loss.  Dentists point out that the biggest mistake is equating the absence of pain with the absence of a disease. By the time discomfort finally manifests, the condition has often advanced to a stage that requires complex, invasive, and costly intervention rather than simple preventive maintenance.

In response to these risks, there is a renewed focus on preventive care that integrates time-tested natural solutions with modern science. Ayurvedic ingredients such as clove and neem have long been recognized for their potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help control harmful bacteria and soothe gum tissue. Dabur Red Paste incorporates these traditional botanicals into a clinically tested daily formulation that carries the IDA Seal of Acceptance, providing a scientifically backed tool to combat plaque and prevent the onset of serious dental conditions.

Maintaining long-term oral health requires a shift from reactive treatment to proactive habits. Consistent brushing twice daily with a validated toothpaste like Dabur Red Paste, combined with daily flossing and reduced sugar intake, forms a critical defense against acid exposure and bacterial buildup. When these daily habits are supported by regular professional check-ups, oral diseases can be identified and managed in their earliest stages. Choosing a proactive regimen is the most effective way to protect one’s smile and avoid the inevitable physical and financial costs of dental neglect –Oral Health Analysis by Leading Health Expert Dr. Sonia Datta.

SCOTTSDALE, AZ – May 18, 2026 – SimonMed, one of the largest outpatient imaging providers in the United States, today announced the launch of the SimonMed Shield Program, a permanent nationwide initiative designed to help military personnel, veterans, and first responders access proactive whole-body MRI screening at a reduced cost. Through the program, eligible individuals will receive 20% off any SimonMed Longevity whole-body MRI.

The SimonMed Shield Program is designed to help those who serve take a more proactive approach to their health through advanced, radiation-free imaging that can be designed to help identify potential health issues earlier and establish a meaningful clinical baseline.

Military personnel and first responders often work in physically and emotionally demanding environments where prioritizing personal health can take a back seat to service.

“Many veterans and first responders spend years focused on protecting others while putting their own health second,” said Dr. Sean Raj, Chief Medical Officer and Chief Innovation Officer at SimonMed. “The Shield Program is one way we can support them in taking a more proactive approach to their own health through advanced imaging designed to help identify potential concerns earlier.”

Beginning on Armed Forces Day, eligible patients can access the ongoing program benefit at SimonMed locations nationwide. No referral is required, HSA and FSA funds may be used and each whole-body MRI includes a 1:1 virtual clinical consultation to review findings and next steps. If additional evaluation is recommended, patients may also have access to follow-up imaging services across SimonMed’s nationwide network, including advanced MRI, CT, cardiac, women’s imaging, and bone health services—supporting a more seamless care journey. The Shield Program is available to veterans, active-duty military, reserve, and National Guard members, police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics. 

SimonMed’s Longevity whole-body MRI evaluates 13+ organs and systems in a single, radiation-free exam, including the brain, spine, chest, abdomen, and pelvic organs. The scan may help identify potential abnormalities associated with conditions such as certain cancers, fatty liver disease, aneurysms, and musculoskeletal or spinal degeneration—often before symptoms appear.

The Shield Program reflects SimonMed’s broader commitment to expanding access to preventive imaging and supporting the long-term health of those who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving others. Eligible individuals can learn more or schedule an appointment at SimonMed.com/Shield. 

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, yet recent studies suggest there may be a simple tool to help lower risk and improve outcomes: physical activity.

In a recent study in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Rachel Perry, PhD, associate professor of medicine (endocrinology and metabolism) and of cellular and molecular physiology at Yale School of Medicine  demonstrated that voluntary wheel running among mice slowed tumor growth. The research team found that working muscles outcompete tumors for glucose, depriving the tumor of the fuel they need to grow. The study’s findings suggest that exercise can play a part in the prevention and treatment of cancer.

“By exercising, individuals may be able to boost the body’s defenses against cancer, perhaps improving immune function and surveillance,” Perry says. “Exercise may also create a greater window in which chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy can work.”

Insulin Resistance and Cancer

Research has shown that exercise helps the body reverse insulin resistance, which is a metabolic condition that can cause a range of metabolic and cardiovascular issues. In individuals with insulin resistance, insulin’s signal does not properly trigger the muscle’s glucose transport system. This is largely because ectopic fat, or fat buildup in muscle or liver cells, interferes with the normal signaling pathway.

“Our hypothesis is that insulin resistance is driving many obesity-related cancers,” says Gerald I. Shulman, MD, PhD, George R. Cowgill Professor of Medicine (endocrinology) and professor of cellular and molecular physiology at YSM.

“Exercise activates an important enzyme, called AMPK, which acts as a cellular fuel gauge and promotes glucose uptake into muscle cells, even when insulin signaling is impaired,” Shulman adds. “In this way, exercise can reverse ectopic lipid-induced insulin resistance in skeletal muscle.”

Integrating Exercise into Cancer Care and Prevention

“The overarching conclusion from the literature showing the benefits of exercise in fighting cancer is remarkably consistent,” says Melinda Irwin, PhD, MPH, Susan Dwight Bliss Professor of Epidemiology (chronic diseases) at Yale School of Public Health and deputy director of Yale Cancer Center.

Metabolic and inflammatory biomarkers likely mediate the effect of exercise on cancer risk and prognosis, research shows. Irwin’s study of exercise and diet-induced weight loss in women with breast cancer found significant reductions in C-reactive protein (a protein associated with inflammation in the body), insulin and leptin levels.

“Across cancer types and across the lifespan, any increase in physical activity is better than none,” Irwin says. “It is never too late to begin exercising, as individuals who become active later in life or after diagnosis still experience meaningful benefits.”

Perry and Irwin both recommend walking regularly, minimizing prolonged sitting, and maintaining muscle strength with simple, home-based exercises.

While healthy lifestyle choices can lower risk, they cannot guarantee that a person will not develop cancer.

 “Exercise is not a panacea. It can put a monkey wrench in cancer progression, but it will never treat cancer as a monotherapy,” says Perry. “Even so, it still has beneficial effects all over the body.”

Endocrinology and Metabolism, one of 10 sections in the Yale Department of Internal Medicine, improves the health of individuals with endocrine and metabolic diseases by advancing scientific knowledge, applying new information to patient care, and training the next generation of physicians and scientists to become leaders in the field. To learn more, visit Endocrinology and Metabolism.

Bhubaneswar, May 14, 2026: Manipal Hospital Bhubaneshwar successfully hosted the 3rd Edition of MANIPAL AIRCON 2026 at Bhubaneswar, bringing together leading anaesthesiologists, critical care specialists, and airway management experts for a comprehensive academic conference focused on perioperative excellence and advanced airway care.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 100 delegates including 25 distinguished faculties from various institutions , making it a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange and skill enhancement. The event was graced by Chief Guest Dr Jitamitra Mishra, President, Indian Society of Anaesthesiologists Bhubaneswar City Branch, in the presence of Dr. Saktimaya Mohapatra, Cluster Director (South East), Manipal Hospitals.

The conference was organised under the leadership of Chairperson Dr Swarnamayee Sathpathy, with Dr Sujata Priyadarshini serving as the Organising Secretary and Dr Bhagya Ranjan Jena leading the Scientific Committee. Their collective efforts played a pivotal role in curating a high-quality academic programme that blended evidence-based learning with practical clinical training.

The scientific programme featured six insightful lectures covering both Basic Airway Management and Difficult Airway Management, with discussions centred on practical approaches, patient safety, emergency preparedness, and recent advancements in airway care. The conference also emphasised experiential learning through eight highly interactive hands-on workshops designed to strengthen clinical expertise in managing routine and complex airway scenarios. Key workshop sessions included Advanced Airway Simulation, Fibreoptic Intubation Techniques, Video laryngoscopy, Emergency Cricothyrotomy, Difficult Airway Algorithms, Ultrasound-Guided Airway Assessment, Airway Management in Critical Care, and Paediatric Airway Management. The workshops enabled delegates to gain practical exposure under the guidance of experienced faculty members and industry experts.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Jitamitra Mishra, President, Indian Society of Anaesthesiologists Bhubaneswar City Branch, said, “Continuous academic engagement and practical training are essential to strengthening airway management practices and enhancing perioperative patient safety. MANIPAL AIRCON 2026 has provided an excellent platform for healthcare professionals to exchange knowledge, sharpen clinical skills, and stay updated with evolving techniques and innovations in airway care.” Adding to this,

Dr Saktimaya Mohapatra, Cluster Director (South East), Manipal Hospitals said, “Airway management remains one of the most critical components of perioperative and emergency care. Conferences like MANIPAL AIRCON 2026 play an essential role in bridging academic learning with real-world clinical practice, ultimately improving patient outcomes and strengthening preparedness among healthcare professionals.” MANIPAL AIRCON 2026 further reinforced Manipal Hospital’s commitment to continuous medical education, multidisciplinary collaboration, and clinical excellence in anaesthesia and critical care. The conference also highlighted the institution’s focus on fostering advanced skill development and bringing contemporary global practices in airway management closer to healthcare professionals across the region.

Mumbai, May 13: Apex Group of Hospitals celebrated International Nurses Day with gratitude and pride across all its Mumbai hospitals, recognising the tireless dedication, compassion, and commitment of its nursing staff who continue to play a vital role in patient care and recovery. Celebrations across all Apex hospitals included special appreciation ceremonies, cultural activities, motivational sessions, and awards honouring exceptional nurses for their service and contribution to healthcare excellence.

Speaking on the occasion, the management of Apex Group of Hospitals said, “Nursing is the backbone of every hospital. Nurses are not only caregivers but also emotional support systems for patients and families during their most difficult moments. Their strength, empathy, and commitment form the foundation of quality healthcare.”

The event highlighted the critical role nurses play in ensuring patient safety, comfort, and recovery. From emergency care and operating theatres to intensive care units and general wards, nurses remain at the forefront of healthcare delivery every single day. Doctors, management teams, and hospital staff joined together to express their appreciation for the nursing fraternity. Several nurses who demonstrated outstanding dedication, leadership, and patient care were felicitated during the celebrations. Nurses play a vital role in India’s healthcare system by providing compassionate care, emotional support, and round-the-clock medical attention to patients. They are the backbone of hospitals, ensuring patient safety, recovery, and comfort at every stage of treatment. From emergency care to rural healthcare services, nurses work tirelessly with dedication and humanity. Their contribution strengthens the nation’s healthcare system and improves countless lives every day.

Apex Group of Hospitals consistently focuses on creating a supportive and growth-oriented environment for its nursing professionals through continuous training, skill development programs, and modern healthcare practices. International Nurses Day, celebrated globally on May 12, marks the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. The occasion serves as an opportunity to recognise the invaluable contribution of nurses to society and healthcare systems worldwide. Through this celebration, Apex Group of Hospitals reaffirmed its commitment to supporting and empowering nurses who continue to serve humanity with compassion, courage, and care.