Dr. Fakhrul Islam Babu (孫逸仙) Receives Icons of Change International Award 2025 for Championing Youth Mental Health in Bangladesh
The Icons of Change Awards, which annually honor changemakers aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), selected Dr. Fakhrul for his work promoting SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. His deep involvement in fostering mental wellness, social harmony, and cross-cultural understanding has made a lasting impact across South and East Asia.
A native of Chandpur, Bangladesh, and now a proud naturalized citizen of China, residing in Hong Kong SAR, Dr. Fakhrul embodies the spirit of global citizenship. As a visionary leader, he has guided Talk Hope with compassion and strategic insight, helping the platform expand its reach among vulnerable youth, provide critical psychological support, and build a culture of empathy across communities.
> 'Mental health is not a privilege—it is a fundamental human right. I am proud to support Talk Hope and the young changemakers behind it who are saving lives every day with courage and compassion,' said Dr. Fakhrul upon receiving the award.
The Founder of Talk Hope, Md Saddam Hossain Roni, also shared heartfelt words following the announcement:
> 'We feel immensely proud to see our Honourable Adviser, Dr. Fakhrul Islam Babu, receiving the Icons of Change International Award 2025. This recognition is not only a testament to his extraordinary vision and lifelong dedication to humanity, but also a source of inspiration for all of us at Talk Hope. His unwavering support has given strength to our mission, and his achievement reaffirms our belief that compassionate leadership can truly change lives.'
Apart from his advocacy in mental health, Dr. Fakhrul is the Founder of the China-Bangladesh Friendship Center and Group Chairman of MEXIMCO, a multinational enterprise that exemplifies ethical business practices and South-South economic cooperation. Through job creation and inclusive trade across Bangladesh, China, India, and Hong Kong, he has demonstrated how business can be a powerful tool for social good.
As President of Asian Club Limited and a key figure in the Hong Kong Association of Naturalized Chinese, he has long championed social integration, civic representation, and cultural diplomacy. His civic engagement includes serving as a District National Security Law Tutor, Area Committee Member, and Care Team volunteer in Hong Kong—evidence of his belief that civic responsibility is integral to social progress.
A lifelong humanitarian, Dr. Fakhrul's association with Rotary International—where he has served in various leadership roles and earned distinctions such as Paul Harris Fellow, Major Donor, and Global Goodwill Ambassador—underscores his philosophy of 'Service Above Self.' He is also a life member of the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society, supporting communities during crises and calamities.
Dr. Fakhrul's holistic approach to leadership—integrating faith, identity, commerce, and compassion—was especially praised by the award committee. His adoption of the Chinese name 孫逸仙 (Sun Yat-sen) serves as a personal homage to the values of reform, unity, and humanity.
> 'Dr. Fakhrul Islam Babu is not only a patron of change—he is its architect. His support of Talk Hope is a testament to his belief that every life matters, and every youth deserves a future filled with dignity, hope, and purpose,' the official award citation read.
In a time when mental health challenges continue to affect millions of young people, especially in developing nations, this international recognition highlights the urgent importance of compassionate leadership and cross-border solidarity.
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Yahoo
17 hours ago
- Yahoo
Does acupressure help you sleep better? I asked two experts — this is what they said
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. In a time where we're bombarded with social media trends for sleep like April Theory and the 'sleepy girl mocktail,' it can be easy to forget that there are some methods you can use to help with your slumber that have been around for thousands of years. Like acupressure, a non-invasive, ancient traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves the use of pressure on the face and body at certain points, some of which are used to help with sleep. Research has shown that acupressure can help with sleep, from reducing insomnia, to improving sleep quality in hospital patients and even contributing to better sleep in menopausal women. Here, we'll explore this research and the potential benefits of acupressure for sleep, as well as speaking to experts in the field to find out about what acupressure is, and how you can even practice it in the comfort of your own home. What is acupressure and how does it work? "Acupressure is a non-invasive traditional Chinese medicine technique that uses pressure on the face and body at specific points known as acupoints," says registered acupuncturist Lily Lai, who has a PhD in Chinese Medicine in Primary Care and offers acupressure at her UK clinic. "Pressure is applied in a variety of ways – most commonly finger pressure is used as well as tools," she adds. Doctor of Oriental Medicine (DOM), Dr. Haley Parker, who is a licensed acupuncturist and the Director of Clinical Operations at VUIM Clinic (Virginia University of Integrative Medicine), explains that in acupressure, gentle sustained pressure is applied to "specific points along the body's meridians — energy channels that correspond to organs and systems." "It's based on the same principles as acupuncture, but instead of using needles, you use fingers, palms, elbows, or tools to stimulate the points," Dr. Parker explains. "The idea is to restore the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood through the body to promote healing, reduce tension, and support balance between the body and mind," she says. "From a Western perspective, acupressure may stimulate the nervous system, influence endorphin release, reduce cortisol, and activate the parasympathetic 'rest and digest' response," the doctor continues. According to The American Institute of Alternative Medicine, the practice is "based on the belief that applying firm pressure in specific acupoints stimulates the nervous system and brain to release endorphins and neurotransmitters to ease... pain." Acupressure falls under what the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK describes as 'complimentary and alternative medicine' (CAM) and they do advise that "if you think you may have a health condition, first see your GP. Do not visit a CAM practitioner instead of seeing your GP." Is there any science proving acupressure improves sleep? As the NHS points out, it is important to review the evidence when considering a complimentary or alternative medicine. When it comes to acupressure there is "a growing body of evidence supporting [its] effectiveness for sleep," says Dr. Parker. As well as the research cited below, a review of studies into the effect of acupressure on hospital inpatients showed that it improved factors such as sleep quality, total sleep time, sleep efficiency and sleep onset latency compared to control groups. Researchers concluded that it is an "effective intervention to improve sleep quality and sleep parameters in inpatients." Among the studies she highlighted, Dr. Parker pointed to a review of studies and a specific study which both showed that acupressure improved sleep quality in older people. How can acupressure benefit sleep? 1. Stimulate specific pressure points As we've explored above, this traditional Chinese medicine practice involves applying pressure to certain points. Dr. Parker says it can support sleep "by calming the nervous system, easing physical tension, and regulating the underlying organ systems that influence rest." She notes that the best combination of acupressure points for sleep depends on what the individual is experiencing and that a personal point prescription would then be selected to "to support the patient and the present symptoms, like insomnia and restlessness." However, she shares the following common points and how they work from a traditional Chinese medicine perspective: "Shenmen (HT7 – Heart 7): Located on the wrist crease, this point is often used for insomnia, anxiety and emotional restlessness. It calms the Shen (spirit), helping to settle racing thoughts and reduce overactivity of the Heart system, which in TCM can disturb sleep." "Yintang ('Third Eye'): Found between the eyebrows, this point is deeply calming and is known to relieve stress, quiet the mind and support melatonin production through relaxation of the pineal and hypothalamic areas." "Anmian ('Peaceful Sleep'): A lesser-known but effective point located behind the ear, Anmian is used specifically for sleep disturbances, helping to ground the nervous system and encourage deeper, more sustained rest." "Sanyinjiao (SP6 – Spleen 6): Located on the inner lower leg, this point supports hormonal regulation and helps harmonize the Spleen, Liver, and Kidney systems. These organs play key roles in emotional regulation and sleep according to TCM." 2. Reduces stress and anxiety Anxiety can mean that worries, racing thoughts and restlessness make it particularly hard to fall asleep. Lai says that one of the common causes of sleeplessness is stress and anxiety, and points to a systematic review and meta-analysis of research which showed acupressure can significantly reduce anxiety. Acupressure can significantly reduce anxiety "Studies suggest that acupressure and acupuncture work in similar ways by encouraging the body to release neurotransmitters such as endorphins and serotonin," says Dr. Parker. "both of which are mood elevators and play a major role in sleepregulation via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis," she explains. "Acupressure may also be increasing parasympathetic nervous activity, the rest-and-digest part of our nervous system which takes the body away from being in the sympathetic nervous system state, the fight-or-flight response," Lai adds. She says that these calming, anxiety-reducing effects of acupressure can help sleep by improving both sleep latency, and sleep duration. 2. Helps to ease insomnia Those who have experienced either short-term (several days or weeks) or chronic insomnia (lasting three months or more), know that it doesn't just interfere with your sleep. It can also cause issues including irritability, fatigue and problems with focus the next day. But research shows that acupressure may be a tool you can include to combat it. One study compared the effect of acupressure on those with insomnia, with 200 participants divided into a group who were taught self-administered acupressure, and a group who were given sleep hygiene education. They found that those who had learned acupressure had improved Insomnia Severity Index scores after both four weeks and eight weeks, compared to the other group. Auricular acupressure, which focuses on pressure points on the ear, has been shown in a number of studies to help with insomnia. One review of studies looking at how effective auricular acupressure is as a treatment for insomnia concluded that, "the effects of auricular acupressure on insomnia are comparable to those of estazolam," which is a medication used short-term for treating insomnia. And while Dr. Parker noted above that acupressure be used to help with sleep issues like insomnia, she also explains that, "lack of sleep/insomnia is often a symptom of an underlying imbalance." "There are also lifestyle factors and habits that should be addressed to support a restful nights sleep (examples include limiting screen time before bed, limit caffeine after 3pm in the afternoon, eliminate noises and lights in the bedroom, try to go to bed at a regular time each night etc)," she explains. 3. Can help with hormonal changes affecting sleep "Sleep problems can also be associated with hormonal changes and studies have demonstrated that acupressure can be effective for improving sleep in these patient populations," says Lai. A huge number of women experiencing menopause have issues with their sleep. In fact, 2023 research noted that across the world, sleep and menopause effects the lives of about a third of women. Lai suggests that acupressure may be one way to help tackle this, explaining that, "acupressure has shown in recent trials to significantly improve sleep quality in menopausal women." A trial published in the Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences, found that "acupressure alone can improve sleep quality at a rate of 22% in menopausal women by massage on the effective points," and concluded that it "can be used as a complementary treatment to relieve sleep disorders in menopausal women." In addition, Lai says that "Studies have indicated that acupressure impacts hormone-related sleep problems through decreasing levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) as well as through increasing levels of oestradiol." "These in turn improve sleep quality related to hormonal conditions, but also in other symptoms such as hot flushes and fatigue," she explains. How to try acupressure for sleep at home If you're interested in exploring acupressure and want some simple options that you can try out from the ease of your home, Dr. Parker suggests the following. "Finger pressure massage: Apply gentle, circular pressure to key points like HT7 (wrist), Yintang (forehead), or SP6 (inner leg) for 1–2 minutes each, preferably in the evening before bed." "Acupressure mats: These mats use small spikes to stimulate multiple points along the back and shoulders. Lying on one for 10–20 minutes can help reduce muscular tension and promote parasympathetic nervous system activation—ideal for winding down." "Partner massage: Light massage focusing on the neck, shoulders, and feet can activate calming points. Adding lavender oil or calming music can enhance the effect." "Breathing with pressure: Combine acupressure with slow, deep breathing to amplify relaxation. Inhale deeply, press a calming point (like Yintang), and exhale slowly." Acupressure mats like the Shakti mat and Pranamat have become popular options to try at home, and both promise to help improve your sleep after just 20 minutes use. Pranamat even cites stats from Dr. Marek Dvořák's sleep tracker, which show that after using the Pranamat 20 minutes before sleep, his REM sleep increased by 2%, deep sleep increased by 7% and light sleep was reduced by 10%. Lai also shares the one piece of advice given to every patient in her practice experiencing sleep issues: "Utilise acupressure wristbands to stimulate Nei Guan (Pericardium 6). Whilst this acupoint is widely known for nausea and vomiting, it is also used frequently in traditional acupuncture for sleeplessness as well as for stress and anxiety," she says. This pressure point is found between the two tendons ont he inner aspect of the forearm, three finger widths below the wrist crease. Is acupressure suitable for everyone? It's important to consult your doctor if you are experiencing pain or a medical condition, however, Lai and Dr. Parker agree that acupressure is, in general, very safe for most people. "Basic self-acupressure can be safely carried out in specific circumstances such as with acupressure wristbands for nausea and vomiting," Lai says. But she notes that, "for face, body or ear acupuncture and for more complex conditions, this is safest and most effective when carried out by a TCM practitioner who is registered with an appropriate acupuncture professional body." "If you are actively under the care of a doctor or consultant for a medical condition, you should always seek their advice prior to using acupressure," she explains. It's important that certain patient groups such as children, pregnant women and the elderly should check with their doctor before using acupressure for their health concerns.
Politico
a day ago
- Politico
Israeli fire kills at least 18 in Gaza, and US envoy visits hostage family protest
In response to questions about several eyewitness accounts of violence at the northernmost of the Israeli-backed American contractor's four facilities, GHF said 'nothing (happened) at or near our sites.' The episode came a day after U.S. officials visited one site and U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee called the distribution 'an incredible feat.' International outrage has mounted as the group's efforts to deliver aid to hunger-stricken Gaza have been marred by violence and controversy. 'We weren't close to them (the troops) and there was no threat,' Abed Salah, a man in his 30s who was among the crowds close to the GHF site near Netzarim corridor, said. 'I escaped death miraculously.' The danger facing aid seekers in Gaza has compounded what international hunger experts this week called a 'worst-case scenario of famine' in the besieged enclave. Israel's nearly 22-month military offensive against Hamas has shattered security in the territory of some 2 million Palestinians and made it nearly impossible to deliver food safely to starving people. Seven Palestinians died of malnutrition-related causes in the Gaza Strip over the past 24 hours, the territory's health ministry said on Saturday. They include a child, it said in a statement, bringing total deaths among children from causes related to malnutrition in Gaza to 93 since the war began. The ministry said 76 adults in Gaza have died of malnutrition-related causes since late June, when it started counting deaths among adults. From May 27 to July 31, 859 people were killed near GHF sites, according to a United Nations report published Thursday. Hundreds more have been killed along the routes of food convoys. GHF says its armed contractors have only used pepper spray or fired warning shots to prevent deadly crowding. Israel's military has said it has only fired warning shots at people who approach its forces, though on Friday said it was working to make the routes under its control safer. Israel and GHF have said that the toll has been exaggerated.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Yahoo
Pharma interest can plug NIH funding gap: Illumina CEO
Genetic sequencing company Illumina (ILMN) has had a rough few years. It has battled activist investors, faced off with the Federal Trade Commission, and, most recently, agreed to a $9.8 million settlement with the Department of Justice over a cybersecurity breach. To add to the pile: sanctions in China and the Trump administration cutting National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding, which the company relies heavily on for clinical research. The numbers don't lie. The stock is down more than 21% in the past year and sank more than 11% in after-hours trading Thursday after the company reported an earnings miss for the second quarter. The company reported $1.06 billion in revenues compared to expected revenues of $1.05 billion. Adjusted earnings per share came in at $1.19 compared to estimates of $1.01. But CEO Jacob Thaysen told Yahoo Finance he remains positive about the company's near-term growth. Why? Because, in part, pharmaceutical companies can provide a new market. "Now, we're shifting from small things to really big programs. Some of the things making up for the reduction from the NIH is kind of indirect, but pharma is getting more interest in these big programs," he said, noting that 15% of the company is exposed to government research funding. "It's not only about sequencing itself, but really using massive amounts of data ... to really identify new drug targets and understand a disease," Thaysen said. The idea to use patient data to help the pharmaceutical world was also identified by 23andMe, which recently came out of bankruptcy through a nonprofit led by founder Anne Wojcicki. Thaysen said that unlike 23andMe, which he has worked with, his company is not going to pursue drug development on its own. "We have a lot of pharma companies that are very excited to work with us," he said. In addition to genetic testing of patient samples, the company is looking at growing in the preventative side of care with cancer screenings. The oncology business, Thaysen said, will have healthy growth over the next 10 or so years. China China banned importations of the San Diego-based company's sequencing machines earlier this year as part of its retaliatory actions to Trump's tariff war. Thaysen said he is working with regulators to try to reverse that, but "in the meantime, that business is declining, and we are expecting it to be flat." In fact, though China has historically been about 10% of the company's business, it contributed to half of the decline in earnings this past week. "China was never a huge part of Illumina's business. When it was the largest, it was just around 10%. We're down to 5% of the business," Thaysen told Yahoo Finance. But because of the tariff war and China's goals to boost its domestic innovation market, Illumina has faced a setback in its market power there from local competition. "As soon as there is a Chinese alternative that is good enough, then you will see that the Chinese government is pushing for the Chinese population, the Chinese companies to use that technology," Thaysen said. He added that even with the increased competition, China is an appealing market to remain in. Analysts are still waiting to see more progress on Illumina's return to growth. Jefferies analyst Tycho Peterson said in a note to clients that the firm will reiterate its Hold rating until things settle: "While the clinical traction is encouraging, we view clarity on near-term headwinds (A&G, China, Roche) and a path to sustainable HSD growth as key to a more constructive view. Reiterate Hold." Anjalee Khemlani is the senior health reporter at Yahoo Finance, covering all things pharma, insurance, provider services, digital health, PBMs, and health policy and politics. That includes GLP-1s, of course. Follow Anjalee as AnjKhem on social media platforms X, LinkedIn, and Bluesky @AnjKhem. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
