Category: Health

June 22: The global observance of International Yoga Day witnessed widespread participation this year, with the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing” gaining momentum across countries, communities, and wellness platforms.

Events, workshops, and mass yoga sessions were organised in multiple regions to promote physical wellbeing, mental balance, and holistic health through traditional yoga practices. The initiative highlighted the growing global recognition of yoga as a tool for improving quality of life, particularly among older populations.

The celebrations brought together practitioners, instructors, and wellness enthusiasts who demonstrated various yoga asanas and breathing techniques aimed at enhancing flexibility, strength, and mental clarity. Special sessions were also conducted focusing on preventive healthcare and age-friendly wellness routines.

Organisers emphasised the importance of incorporating yoga into daily lifestyles to support healthy ageing and improve overall wellbeing. The theme encouraged individuals across age groups to adopt sustainable health practices rooted in mindfulness and physical activity.

The observance reflected yoga’s expanding global footprint, with increasing participation from diverse cultures and communities. It also underscored the role of yoga in promoting harmony between physical health and mental wellness.

International Yoga Day continues to serve as a platform for spreading awareness about the benefits of yoga, with this year’s celebrations reinforcing its relevance in addressing modern health challenges and supporting lifelong wellbeing.

Every year on June 19, the world observes World Sickle Cell Day—but in 2026, the conversation feels different. It is no longer limited to awareness alone. It is now about urgency, equity, and a rapidly evolving medical future.

The official theme for World Sickle Cell Day 2026 is:

“Closing the Survival Gap: Equity in Sickle Cell Disease”

This theme captures a critical truth: survival should not depend on geography, income, or access to healthcare. It calls for a world where early diagnosis, advanced treatment, and continuous care are available to every patient—not just a privileged few.

A Disease at the Centre of Inequality and Innovation

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder where red blood cells become rigid and sickle-shaped, blocking normal blood flow. This leads to severe pain episodes, anaemia, organ damage, and lifelong health complications.

Globally, over 300,000 babies are born with SCD every year, with the highest burden in low- and middle-income countries.

India carries one of the heaviest burdens worldwide, particularly affecting Scheduled Tribes and underserved communities, where delayed diagnosis and limited healthcare access continue to shape outcomes.

Yet, 2026 marks a turning point—where science, policy, and public health are beginning to converge.

From Hope to Reality: The Rise of Gene-Based Cures

For decades, sickle cell disease was managed, not cured. That is now changing.

Gene Therapy: Rewriting the Disease Itself

One of the most significant breakthroughs is CRISPR-based gene therapy, including treatments like Casgevy. This approach modifies a patient’s own stem cells so the body can produce healthy haemoglobin.

For the first time, medicine is not only treating symptoms—but addressing the genetic root cause.

Stem Cell Transplant: The Established Cure

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (bone marrow transplant) remains the only established curative option today. While limited by donor availability and eligibility, it has transformed outcomes for many children worldwide.

Targeted Medicines: Turning a Fatal Cycle into a Manageable Condition

Modern therapies are reshaping daily life for patients:

• Voxelotor – improves anaemia by preventing red blood cell sickling
• Crizanlizumab – reduces painful crisis frequency
• L-Glutamine – lowers oxidative stress in cells
• Hydroxyurea – long-standing therapy that increases fetal haemoglobin

Together, these treatments are reducing hospitalisation, improving quality of life, and extending life expectancy.

India’s National Mission: Screening at Scale, Saving Lives Early

India has launched the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission, targeting elimination of the disease as a public health problem by 2047.

Its core focus includes:

• Mass screening in high-burden districts
• Distribution of Sickle Cell Identity Cards
• Early diagnosis and treatment linkage
• Creation of digital patient tracking systems

Large-scale outreach programmes in tribal and rural regions are identifying cases earlier than ever before—often before symptoms become severe.

The Survival Gap: Why Theme 2026 Matters

The theme “Closing the Survival Gap” is not symbolic—it reflects real-world inequality.

Two children with the same disease may have entirely different futures depending on:

• How early they are diagnosed
• Whether treatment is accessible
• Whether their families are informed

This gap is what global health systems are now being challenged to eliminate.

Prevention Begins Before Birth: The Power of Genetic Awareness

One of the most important yet overlooked aspects of SCD is the sickle cell trait.

• Carriers usually have no symptoms
• But they can pass the gene to children
• If both parents are carriers, there is a 25% risk of disease in the child

This makes pre-marital and pre-pregnancy screening essential, especially in high-risk regions.

Awareness here is not optional—it is preventive medicine.

Everyday Management: Small Actions, Lifelong Impact

Even with advanced treatment, daily care remains essential:

 Medical Support

• Vaccinations and infection prevention
• Daily antibiotics in young children (as prescribed)
• Folic acid supplementation

Lifestyle Protection

• Proper hydration
• Avoiding extreme temperatures
• Early response to pain episodes

These steps reduce complications and improve long-term stability.

A New Healthcare Ecosystem Emerging

Beyond treatment, India is building a structured ecosystem through:

• National Health Mission screening portals
• Community outreach camps
• Tribal health initiatives
• Genetic counselling expansion

The goal is not just treatment—but continuity of care from birth to adulthood.

Conclusion: From Awareness to Equity, From Equity to Cure

World Sickle Cell Day 2026 marks a rare moment in global health—where science is advancing rapidly, and policy is beginning to align with need.

The theme “Closing the Survival Gap: Equity in Sickle Cell Disease” is both a promise and a challenge.

Because today, the question is no longer whether sickle cell disease can be understood.

It is whether every child—regardless of where they are born—can access:

• Early screening
• Timely treatment
• And, one day, a cure

The tools are now available. The systems are being built. The responsibility is collective.

And the message is clear:

A survival gap that can be closed must not be allowed to remain open.

Kotpad/Jeypore: World Blood Donor Day was celebrated at the District Headquarters Hospital in Jeypore with great enthusiasm. The event was attended by the Sub-Collector, the Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO), and other dignitaries, who felicitated voluntary blood donors from different parts of the district for their invaluable contribution to saving lives.

Among those honoured was Tulasi Das Nayak, popularly known as Nini Babu, a prominent blood donor from Kotpad. Young blood donor Rabindra Sahu also participated in the programme and extended his support to the initiative.

Tulasi Das Nayak is widely respected in the Kotpad region for his dedication to voluntary blood donation and humanitarian service. Whenever there is an urgent need for blood, residents often reach out to him for assistance. Over the years, he has actively encouraged and motivated young people to come forward and donate blood, emphasizing that blood donation is one of the noblest acts of service to humanity.

His selfless commitment has inspired many youths in the region to participate in blood donation drives and social welfare activities. Community members praised his efforts, noting that his example has helped create greater awareness about the importance of voluntary blood donation.

The event concluded with a renewed appeal to citizens, especially the younger generation, to donate blood regularly and contribute towards saving lives in times of medical emergencies.

Pregnancy is a remarkable journey that brings significant physical and emotional changes to a woman’s body. As the baby grows, maintaining a comfortable sleeping position becomes increasingly challenging. Many expectant mothers experience sleep disturbances caused by back pain, hip discomfort, frequent urination, heartburn, and the growing weight of the baby bump. This is where pregnancy pillows play a vital role in promoting better sleep and overall well-being.

Why Sleep Matters During Pregnancy

Quality sleep is essential throughout pregnancy. During sleep, the body undergoes important restorative processes that support both maternal health and fetal development. Adequate rest helps regulate hormones, strengthen the immune system, improve mood, and reduce stress levels.

Research has shown that poor sleep during pregnancy may be linked to increased risks of gestational hypertension, prolonged labor, and postpartum fatigue. Sleep deprivation can also affect mental health, leading to increased anxiety and emotional stress.

Common Sleep Challenges During Pregnancy

As pregnancy progresses, women often face several sleep-related challenges, including:

• Lower back and pelvic pain

• Hip and joint discomfort

• Frequent bathroom visits

• Heartburn and indigestion

• Leg cramps

• Difficulty finding a comfortable sleeping position

• Anxiety and stress about childbirth

These issues become more pronounced during the second and third trimesters, making supportive sleep solutions increasingly important.

What Is a Pregnancy Pillow?

A pregnancy pillow is specially designed to support the changing contours of a pregnant woman’s body. Unlike standard pillows, pregnancy pillows provide targeted support to the belly, back, hips, knees, and neck, helping maintain proper spinal alignment and reducing pressure points.

These pillows come in various shapes, including U-shaped, C-shaped, J-shaped, and wedge pillows, each offering different levels of support depending on individual needs.

Benefits of Using a Pregnancy Pillow

1. Improved Sleep Quality

Pregnancy pillows help women find a comfortable sleeping position more easily, reducing tossing and turning throughout the night. Better support often leads to deeper and more restful sleep.

2. Reduced Back and Hip Pain

By supporting the abdomen and aligning the spine, pregnancy pillows help alleviate strain on the lower back, hips, and pelvis. This can significantly reduce discomfort, especially during the later stages of pregnancy.

3. Enhanced Blood Circulation

Healthcare professionals often recommend sleeping on the left side during pregnancy. Pregnancy pillows make it easier to maintain this position, promoting optimal blood flow to the uterus, placenta, and baby.

4. Better Support for the Growing Belly

As the baby grows, the abdomen places additional strain on muscles and ligaments. Pregnancy pillows gently support the bump, reducing tension and improving comfort.

5. Reduced Pressure on Joints

Positioning the pillow between the knees and along the body helps distribute weight evenly, reducing pressure on the hips, knees, and joints.

6. Comfort Beyond Pregnancy

Many pregnancy pillows continue to be useful after childbirth. They can provide support during breastfeeding, postpartum recovery, and even general relaxation.

Why Side Sleeping Is Recommended

Medical experts generally recommend sleeping on the left side during pregnancy, particularly after the first trimester. This position helps improve blood circulation and reduces pressure on major blood vessels.

Benefits of left-side sleeping include:

• Improved blood flow to the baby

• Better kidney function

• Reduced swelling in the feet and ankles

• Improved oxygen and nutrient delivery to the fetus

Pregnancy pillows make maintaining this position easier and more comfortable throughout the night.

Types of Pregnancy Pillows

U-Shaped Pillow

Provides full-body support for the head, neck, back, belly, and legs. Ideal for women who frequently change positions during sleep.

C-Shaped Pillow

Offers support to the head, back, belly, and knees while taking up less bed space than U-shaped designs.

J-Shaped Pillow

Supports the head and body while offering targeted belly support. Suitable for side sleepers seeking a more compact option.

Wedge Pillow

A smaller pillow designed to support specific areas such as the belly or lower back. It is portable and travel-friendly.

Tips for Better Pregnancy Sleep

In addition to using a pregnancy pillow, expectant mothers can improve sleep quality by:

• Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule

• Sleeping on the left side whenever possible

• Avoiding caffeine late in the day

• Keeping the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet

• Engaging in light physical activity with medical approval

• Following a relaxing bedtime routine

• Limiting screen time before bed

Conclusion

A good night’s sleep is one of the most valuable gifts an expectant mother can give herself and her growing baby. Pregnancy pillows are more than just comfort accessories—they are practical tools that help reduce pain, improve sleep quality, support healthy circulation, and promote overall maternal well-being.

As pregnancy advances and physical changes become more noticeable, investing in a quality pregnancy pillow can make a significant difference in comfort and rest. Better sleep contributes to a healthier pregnancy, improved energy levels, and a more positive experience for both mother and baby.

 

New Delhi, June 18: The number of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) has increased to over 19,200 across the country, rising sharply from just 84 in 2014, the Government of India said on Wednesday.

The expansion reflects a significant scale-up of the affordable healthcare initiative aimed at improving access to quality generic medicines for citizens at lower costs.

Officials said the Jan Aushadhi scheme is designed to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure by providing medicines at prices significantly lower than branded alternatives while maintaining quality standards approved by regulatory authorities.

The scheme has expanded its reach across urban and rural areas, including remote and underserved regions, ensuring wider availability of essential medicines through dedicated retail outlets.

Health officials noted that the growth in Kendras has contributed to increasing awareness and acceptance of generic medicines among patients, helping to improve affordability in healthcare delivery.

The government reiterated its commitment to further strengthening the network of Jan Aushadhi Kendras to ensure that essential medicines remain accessible and affordable to all sections of society.

MINNEAPOLIS — Fewer than one in four people with stroke and fewer than one in seven people with traumatic brain injury receive inpatient rehabilitation care after being hospitalized, according to a study published on June 10, 2026, in Neurology® Open Access, an official journal of the American Academy of Neurology. Researchers found disparities in access across sex, race, insurance coverage and income level.

“Receiving intensive rehabilitation after stroke, traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury can improve a person’s recovery, yet access to inpatient rehabilitation care remains inconsistent and may not be equitable,” said study author Farhaan S. Vahidy, MBBS, PhD, of TIRR Memorial Hermann in Houston, Texas, and a member of the American Academy of Neurology.

“Inpatient rehabilitation facilities provide more intensive rehabilitation care, usually more than three hours per day, than skilled nursing facilities,” said Vahidy. “Our study found fewer people receive this type of rehabilitation than are likely eligible, with concerning disparities affecting historically marginalized communities, people with Medicaid and those from lower-income areas.”

For the study, researchers reviewed four years of health records in five states to identify 444,908 adults hospitalized for stroke, traumatic brain injury and traumatic spinal cord injury. They had an average age of 69. Of participants, 75% had stroke, 24% had TBI and 1% had spinal cord injury. After hospitalization, 22% were discharged to inpatient rehabilitation facilities, 26% to skilled nursing facilities and 54% were sent home.

Researchers found just 22% of those with stroke and 14% of those with traumatic brain injury were sent to an inpatient rehabilitation facility, while the number was 44% of those with spinal cord injury. That is fewer than one in four people with stroke and one in seven people with brain injury discharged to an inpatient rehabilitation facility.

Researchers also looked at the differences between various groups of people.

After adjusting for factors such as insurance, a person’s home residence and health factors like high blood pressure and diabetes, researchers found older people with an average age of 75 had 4% higher odds than younger people with an average age of 63 of being discharged to an inpatient rehabilitation facility versus home, female participants had 19% higher odds than male participants, and Black people had 29% higher odds than white people while Hispanic people had 22% lower odds.

The researchers note several limitations when interpreting these findings. The analysis looked back at administrative data and cannot determine causal relationships or account for unmeasured factors that influence hospital discharge, especially social and individual factors not captured in medical records.

Researchers also found that having private insurance or Medicaid versus Medicare and living in areas with the highest average income compared to areas with the lowest average income were associated with 12% lower odds of being discharged to an institutional rehabilitation facility.

When looking only at people discharged to rehabilitation or skilled nursing care, and not those sent home, Black people had 10% lower odds of being discharged to a rehabilitation facility than a skilled nursing facility.

“Ensuring equitable access to intensive inpatient rehabilitation can help improve long-term outcomes for people with these conditions,” said Vahidy. “Future studies should further examine differences in care and develop interventions to reduce disparities.”

Another limitation of the study was that the data reviewed did not include information on the severity of strokes, traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries.

Discover more about brain health at Brain & Life®, from the American Academy of Neurology. This resource also offers a website, podcast, and books that connect patients, caregivers and anyone interested in brain health with the most trusted information, straight from the world’s leading experts in brain health. Follow Brain & Life on Facebook, X, and Instagram.

The American Academy of Neurology is the leading voice in brain health. As the world’s largest association of neurologists and neuroscience professionals with more than 44,000 members, the AAN provides access to the latest news, science and research affecting neurology for patients, caregivers, physicians and professionals alike. The AAN’s mission is to enhance member career fulfillment and promote brain health for all. A neurologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, care and treatment of brain, spinal cord and nervous system diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, concussion, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, headache and migraine.

Hyderabad, June 12 : In a landmark convergence of healthcare, artificial intelligence and immersive technology, Dr P. Raghu Ram, the Ushalakshmi Breast Cancer Foundation and the KIMS-USHALAKSHMI Centre for Breast Diseases jointly secured a Guinness World Records title for hosting the “Largest Audience at an Interactive AI-Enabled Holographic Health Awareness Lecture”. The achievement marks Dr Raghu Ram’s third Guinness World Records title in 15 months, and underscores his continuing commitment to advancing public health education through innovation.

The event featured the AI-generated holographic educator of Dr P. Raghu Ram, delivering a 30-minute breast health awareness lecture followed by a 30-minute multilingual interactive question-and-answer session. The AI-enabled holographic educator provided evidence-based information on both benign breast conditions and breast cancer and responded to audience questions in English, Hindi Telugu and Tamil.

The Guinness World Records title was awarded under a newly created category recognising innovation in AI-enabled holographic health education. Designed to improve breast health literacy, reduce fear and stigma, encourage timely medical consultation and make reliable health information more accessible, the initiative demonstrated the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and immersive communication technologies in advancing public health awareness.

The occasion also marked the launch of NARI . An AI-enabled digital breast health educator of Dr Raghu Ram has been designed and programmed to provide round-the-clock access through a dedicated link to reliable, evidence-based information in multiple languages on breast health, breast cancer, breast screening and early detection. Developed with robust clinical and ethical guardrails, NARI has been created to ensure safe, responsible and compassionate educational interactions while expanding access to credible breast health information across urban and rural communities alike. The platform enables users to ask questions and receive educational guidance in multiple Indian languages, helping bridge important gaps in breast health awareness and access to information.

The event was graced by Dr Abhijat Sheth, Chairman, National Medical Commission, as Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering he said

 “I congratulate Dr Raghu Ram on this remarkable Guinness World Records achievement. What is particularly noteworthy is that this is not merely a record, but a public health innovation with the potential to benefit countless individuals. I understand that this is the third Guinness World Records title secured by Dr Raghu Ram within a span of just 15 months. That is an extraordinary achievement by any standard, with each achievement being driven by a larger purpose—to advance healthcare education, awareness and public engagement. The launch of NARI represents an important step towards making reliable breast health information accessible to people across India through the responsible use of technology and artificial intelligence. Initiatives such as these have the potential to significantly strengthen health literacy and empower individuals to make informed healthcare decisions.”

Highlighting salient aspects about today’s initiative, Dr P. Raghu Ram, Founder & Chairman, Ushalakshmi Breast Cancer Foundation and Founding Director, KIMS-USHALAKSHMI Centre for Breast Diseases said

“I dedicate this recognition to my late mother, Dr Ushalakshmi, a distinguished gynaecologist and breast cancer ‘conqueror’ whose strength, compassion and dedication to women’s health inspired the creation of the Ushalakshmi Breast Cancer Foundation. Her journey taught us that awareness, early detection and hope can save lives. This recognition is a tribute to her enduring legacy and to every woman whose life has been touched by breast cancer. Our objective is simple – to democratise access to credible breast health information, reduce fear and stigma, encourage early detection and empower women through knowledge and awareness. The Guinness World Records achievement is not an end in itself. Rather, it serves as a platform to draw attention to an important public health message and to the potential of technology in making reliable health information accessible to people regardless of geography, language or socioeconomic background.”

Expressing his profound happiness about this remarkable achievement,  Dr Bhaskar Rao Chairman, KIMS group of Hospitals said

“Our Institute is proud to support pioneering initiatives that combine innovation, technology and healthcare for meaningful social impact. For nearly two decades,    Dr Raghu Ram has championed several transformative breast health awareness initiatives aimed at improving early detection and public education in India. This latest endeavour demonstrates how artificial intelligence can be leveraged responsibly to improve health education and public engagement at scale. When Raghu Ram undertakes something, he does it with complete commitment and dedication, and this achievement is yet another example that visibly demonstrates his passion for using innovation to improve people’s lives.”

Synopsis of Statements from other distinguished Guests

Distinguished attendees included Mr K. Padmanabhaiah, Chairman, Court of Governors, Administrative Staff College of India; Dr Ananda Shankar Jayant, renowned classical dancer, Padma Shri awardee and breast cancer conqueror; Dr C. Mallikarjuna, Vice President, National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences; along with several healthcare leaders, public figures and social media influencers commended Dr Raghu Ram for innovatively utilising artificial intelligence and holographic communication to advance breast health awareness in India.

GREENBELT, Md. — Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) announced the graduation of seven physicians from its accredited Venous & Lymphatic Medicine Fellowship Program for the 2025–2026 academic year, marking another milestone in the organization’s effort to expand access to specialized vein care across the United States.

The graduating fellows are:

• Dr. Rohit Martha
• Dr. Rami Ali
• Dr. Caroly Guillen Aguirre
• Dr. Madeleine Pfleger
• Dr. Mohamed Riazuddin
• Dr. Darius Rutazaana
• Dr. Sun Yoo

“The need for highly trained venous and lymphatic medicine specialists continues to grow, and our fellowship program plays an important role in developing the next generation of leaders in the field,” said Dr. Peter J. Pappas, the program director of CVR’s Venous and Lymphatic Medicine Fellowship. “We are proud of this year’s graduating class and the commitment they have shown to advancing patient care.”

CVR’s 12-month fellowship provides advanced clinical and procedural training in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic venous and lymphatic disorders. Accredited by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine (ABVLM), the program equips board-certified physicians from a variety of medical specialties with the expertise needed to address a growing patient population affected by vein disease.

Since welcoming its first fellow in 2017, CVR has steadily expanded the program in response to increasing demand for specialized vein treatment. What began as a single-fellow program has grown to nine fellowship positions, with an additional eight physicians scheduled to begin training in July 2026. 

Throughout the fellowship, physicians complete intensive rotations focused on venous ultrasound, ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy, endovenous ablation procedures, ambulatory phlebectomy and other advanced treatment techniques. Fellows gain extensive hands-on experience while working alongside experienced vein specialists in clinical settings across the country.

The newly graduated physicians join a growing network of fellowship alumni who are helping increase patient access to specialized venous and lymphatic care at CVR and nationwide.

Applications are currently being accepted for future fellowship classes.

For more information about the Center for Vein Restoration Fellowship Program, visit centerforvein.com.

Noida: Close to 150 healthcare professionals, including a large number of practising physicians, gathered in Noida for a Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme focused on the role of evidence-based nutrition in modern clinical practice. The event explored how Whole Food Plant-Based (WFPB) nutrition, Lifestyle Medicine, and scientifically validated dietary interventions can help prevent and manage chronic diseases.

The CME served as an important platform for clinicians to discuss emerging research and practical approaches to integrating nutrition-based strategies into patient care, particularly in addressing rising cases of diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and other lifestyle-related conditions.

The highlight of the event was the keynote address by Prof. Dr. Anoop Misra, one of India’s leading experts in diabetes, obesity, and metabolic health. Dr. Misra shared insights from his recently released book, Smart Calories and Common Sense: An Evidence-Based Guide to Indian Diets, which examines key topics including Indian dietary patterns, weight management, ketogenic diets, intermittent fasting, GLP-1 medications, and common misconceptions surrounding diabetes reversal.

During the programme, Dr. Bijli Nanda, Co-Chair of the PAN Delhi/NCR Chapter, presented guidelines for incorporating Whole Food Plant-Based nutrition into clinical practice. The session focused on practical recommendations for healthcare professionals seeking to use nutrition as a complementary tool in disease prevention and management.

An engaging panel discussion moderated by Anjali Nakra, NCR Chair of PAN India, brought together experts to discuss patient outcomes, barriers to adoption, and strategies for integrating evidence-based nutrition into routine healthcare delivery. Participants exchanged experiences and explored opportunities to strengthen nutrition-focused interventions within clinical settings.

Organisers described the CME as a significant milestone for PAN Delhi/NCR, helping deepen clinician engagement, expand the network of healthcare professionals interested in nutrition science, and foster meaningful dialogue around the role of dietary interventions in healthcare.

The organisers expressed gratitude to the PAN Delhi/NCR leadership, programme management team, faculty members, panelists, participants, and supporters whose contributions made the event successful.

Special appreciation was extended to the organising team, including Dr. Manas Sharma, Dr. Sukrit Kumar, Arvind Tiwari, Anjali Nakra, Dr. Bijli Nanda, and Senior Programme Manager Shruti Sharma, for bringing together a diverse healthcare fraternity and delivering the programme within a short timeframe.

The event underscored the growing recognition of nutrition as a critical component of preventive and therapeutic healthcare, while reinforcing the importance of evidence-based approaches in addressing India’s chronic disease burden.

A study of more than 229,000 obese adults without diabetes in the United States has shown that weight loss drugs are associated with a decreased risk of obesity-related cancers. 

The research found that GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), such as semaglutide (brand names: Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (brand names: Mounjaro and Zepbound), were associated with a 41% decrease in the overall risk of developing cancer among non-diabetic patients who used the drugs for weight management, compared to those who relied on diet and exercise alone. 

Published in Annals of Oncology, the study is the first to investigate the link between GLP-1 RAs and the incidence of obesity-related cancers in people who are obese (body mass index of 30 or more) but who do not have diabetes. These patients tend to be younger than those who do have diabetes.

Thirteen cancers have been linked to obesity, known as obesity-associated cancers; they include endometrial, breast, bowel, kidney, pancreatic, thyroid, ovarian, esophageal, gastric, liver and gallbladder cancers, and multiple myeloma and meningioma. They account for about 40% of cancers diagnosed in high-income countries, and their incidence is rising rapidly among younger adults.

“Our study found that over an average follow-up of two years, GLP-1 RA use was associated with a significantly lower incidence of cancers directly fuelled by excess body weight,” said Dr. Aparna Kamat, director of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology at Houston Methodist and senior author of the study. “Overall cancer risk was reduced by 41% and we saw even larger reductions in certain subgroups, including men, where the risk dropped by nearly 70%. Among gynecologic cancers, there was a 58% reduction in the incidence of endometrial cancer, one of the malignancies most closely linked to obesity.

GLP-1 RAs were developed initially to treat diabetes but have rapidly become the most widely used medications for weight loss. In the US, GLP-1 RAs use among obese, non-diabetic adults has increased from approximately 21,000 patients in 2019 to more than 174,000 in 2023. 

“We already had evidence suggesting these drugs might reduce cancer risk in diabetic patients, but most of the people now taking GLP-1 RAs for weight loss do not have diabetes,” Kamat said. “They are younger obese patients and represent a completely different population. We wanted to investigate whether these medications would affect the risk of obesity-associated cancers in this specific population of patients who make up the majority of GLP-1 RA users in the country – no one had studied this before.

Kamat said that GLP-1 RAs are already transforming how obesity is treated.  “What this analysis of more than 229,000 patients tells us is that their impact may reach further and transform how we think about cancer prevention,” she said.

The researchers analyzed records from 229,467 obese, non-diabetic patients drawn from a nationwide database (TriNetX) covering 113 million U.S. patients. Between December 2014 and June 2025, 86,422 patients (38%) received prescriptions for GLP-1 RAs (semaglutide or tirzepatide) and 143,045 (62%) received advice on diet and exercise. They were followed up until a cancer was diagnosed, or they died or were lost to follow-up, or for two years following their first prescription of the drugs or diet and exercise counselling. The average age of the patients was 47 years.

After closely matching the GLP-1 RA patients with the diet and exercise patients to ensure a fair comparison between the two groups and to emulate the conditions of a randomized controlled trial, there was a total of 161,796 patients, with 80,899 patients in each group.

“Our study suggests GLP-1 RAs may have benefits that extend beyond weight management,” said Pedro Ramirez, chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Houston Methodist and second author of the study. “It should be noted that while the findings do not prove that GLP-1 drugs directly prevent cancer, they provide early evidence that deserves further study in long-term clinical trials.”

“Given the significant reduction in endometrial cancer incidence among GLP-1 RA users in the study, we are now looking into mechanisms by which GLP-1 RAs may affect endometrial cancer growth and prognosis,” Kamat said. “We are studying mechanistic pathways that are modulated by these drugs – work that could open new treatment strategies for one of the most common gynecologic malignancies.”

The researchers say that their findings require further research, especially as the duration of follow-up was only two years. In the meantime, doctors and patients should consider the potential benefit of cancer prevention when discussing GLP-1 RA use.

“Our findings do not prove causation, and cancer risk reduction should not yet be a stand-alone reason to prescribe GLP-1 RAs,” Kamat said. “However, for obese, non-diabetic patients who are already candidates for these medications, our data provide an additional and potentially important reason to have that conversation. For policymakers and other researchers, our study is a clear signal that GLP-1 RAs deserve serious investigation as cancer prevention agents, particularly as obesity-related cancers increasingly affect adults in their 40s and 50s.” 

“This study highlights the potential for a major shift in how we think about obesity treatment and cancer prevention,” Ramirez said. “As the use of GLP-1 RA medications continues to grow worldwide, understanding their broader health impact is critically important. At Houston Methodist, we are committed to  innovative, data-driven research that has the potential to improve patient outcomes far beyond traditional boundaries of care.”