Now, a spectacle-mounted device to detect early signs of Alzheimer's, Parkinson's
Chethan Kumar
TNN
Jul 21, 2025, 11:27 IST IST
A homegrown device is in the works that could determine you brain's health in quite literally the blink of an eye by transforming how doctors diagnose and monitor neurological disorders
In modest labs tucked away in the Indian Institute of Science , Bengaluru, scientists have engineered a spectacle-mountable device that does more than sharpen your vision — it peers into your brain's health. This is not science fiction. It's a working apparatus and could change how doctors diagnose and monitor neurological disorders .
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News18
2 hours ago
- News18
ICMR study finds shortfall in radiotherapy utilisation across all cancer types
Agency: Last Updated: July 24, 2025, 21:30 IST Representational image (Image: News18) New Delhi, Jul 24 (PTI) A recent ICMR study has highlighted a substantial shortfall in radiotherapy utilisation across all cancer types and underscored the need for interventions to meet the gap in machines required for equitable cancer care. Published in the BMC Cancer journal, the study stated that 28.5 per cent of cancer patients receive radiotherapy, which is lower than the estimated optimal rate of 58.4 per cent. Breast, head and neck, lung and cervical cancer account for 60 per cent of India's radiotherapy needs, it said. Data from the Australian Collaboration for Cancer Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CCORE) were used by the researchers of ICMR-National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research, Bengaluru, for conducting the study. Epidemiological data on stage, subsite and histology from the National Cancer Registry Programme were used to assess the optimal utilisation proportion for India. A sensitivity analysis was carried out. Similarly, the optimal radiotherapy fraction has also been calculated. These measures have been used to estimate the existing radiotherapy utilisation gap by comparing with the current radiotherapy utilisation from the cancer registry as well as to estimate the optimal radiotherapy machines required for the country. 'This study provides a comprehensive assessment of radiotherapy demand and existing gaps in radiotherapy utilisation and in the number of machines in India based on an epidemiological analysis of the cancer burden from the National Cancer Registry Programme. Our analysis shows that approximately 58 per cent of all cancer cases in India should ideally receive radiotherapy based on clinical indications. 'However, the current radiotherapy utilisation in India is only 28.5 per cent, which is less than half of the required level," the researchers said. The study also recommended that India would require 1,585 to 2,545 machines, which may increase to a range of 2,016 to 2,291 external beam radiotherapy machines if the assumptions from previous benchmark studies are followed. The burden of four cancer sites — breast, head and neck, lung and cervical cancer — constitutes around 60 per cent of the total radiotherapy requirement for cancer care in India, the study said. This points towards an increasing demand for radiotherapy in the coming years as there is expected to be a 70-100 per cent increase in breast, head and neck and lung cancer in low and middle income countries (LMIC). Radiotherapy utilisation of most cancer sites is lower compared to optimal radiotherapy utilisation. Among the major indicated cancer sites, the deficit is more prominent in lymphoma and lung cancer (relative deficit of more than 70 per cent), followed by prostate, breast and oesophagus, it said. The study mentioned that India accounts for 7 per cent of global cancer incidence, ranking third after China and the USA. By the end of 2025, the incidence of cancer in India is projected to reach 1.57 million cases, posing a significant public health challenge. As the fifth leading cause of death in the country, cancer demands urgent attention to improve prevention, diagnosis and treatment, it said. Radiotherapy, a cornerstone of cancer treatment, plays a crucial role in controlling tumour growth, reducing tumour size pre-surgery, and alleviating pain in advanced stages. However, its availability in low and middle-income countries like India remains insufficient due to high setup and operational costs, creating a significant gap between demand and resources. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a minimum of one radiotherapy machine (external radiotherapy machine) per million population, with an optimal target of four per million, the study stated. For India's projected population of 1.45 billion in 2025, this translates to a need for a minimum of 1,450 machines. Yet, only 794 megavoltage (MV) machines are currently available. The shortfall is about 45 per cent from the minimal required standard, the study said. The study highlighted that in India, greater investment is needed to expand radiotherapy facilities to meet the growing demands of cancer patients. 'Aside from increasing the number of equipment, addressing the inequitable distribution of radiotherapy services is also crucial. To align with the country's cancer burden and ongoing cancer control efforts, India must meet evidence-based targets for radiotherapy machine availability. 'As a part of this, India is also ramping up efforts to develop and deploy affordable indigenous radiotherapy machines to improve access and reduce dependence on costly imports," the study stated. Furthermore, a detailed situational study of radiation equipment deployment with its features and complexity, utilisation and throughput is required for informed planning and policymaking. Cancer screening and early detection programmes can facilitate the diagnosis of cancers at earlier stages. This could reduce the required quantum of radiotherapy shortly and thus, improve the overall survival of patients, the study said. The cancer registry data informs the policy-makers to identify gaps in radiotherapy access, assess resource needs and guide decisions to ensure equitable and effective cancer care delivery. Swipe Left For Next Video View all Optimal radiotherapy utilisation (RTU) calculated for India was higher than optimal radiotherapy utilisation estimation done for developed countries like 48·3 per cent for Australia and 51 per cent for European countries, the study said. The optimal RTU calculation for middle income countries also has an average optimal radiotherapy utilisation value of 52 per cent ranging from 47 to 56 per cent. PTI PLB KSS KSS (This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed - PTI) view comments News agency-feeds ICMR study finds shortfall in radiotherapy utilisation across all cancer types Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
Coconut oil vs olive oil: Which is better for heart health?
Walk down any health food aisle in the grocery store and you'll find bottles of different varieties of oil side by side, each flaunting health claims that promise a longer, better life. But when it comes to heart health, which of these trendy oils truly delivers? With so many cooking oils lining supermarket shelves, it's easy to get confused, especially when popular picks like coconut oil and olive oil claim several health benefits. T he answer lies not in marketing slogans, but in what science says, comparing their fat content, antioxidants, and long-term effects on your cardiovascular system. So, based on science-backed information, which one is better for your health? Olive oil Olive oil, particularly extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), has long been hailed as a cardiovascular champion due to its high levels of monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. According to researchers from UC Davis and the American Heart Association, its rich content of oleic acid and polyphenols supports cardiovascular health, regulates blood pressure, reduces inflammation, and lowers the risk of diseases like type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer's. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like TV providers are furious: this gadget gives you access to all channels Techno Mag Learn More Undo Let's delve a little deeper. Rooted in the Mediterranean diet, which is consistently linked with lower rates of heart disease, one of EVOO's key ingredients is oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that has been shown to reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol without affecting HDL (good) cholesterol. According to the American Heart Association , researchers found that those who ate more than half a tablespoon of olive oil each day had a 15% lower risk of having any kind of cardiovascular disease and a 21% lower risk of coronary heart disease. Replacing one teaspoon of butter, margarine, mayonnaise, or dairy fat with the same amount of olive oil lowered the risk of cardiovascular disease by 5% and coronary heart disease by 7%. Moreover, EVOO is rich in polyphenols, natural antioxidants that help reduce inflammation, improve blood vessel function, and protect LDL cholesterol from oxidative damage (a major trigger for atherosclerosis). Compounds like oleocanthal (acts like a natural ibuprofen, blocking enzymes that fuel inflammation), found only in extra virgin varieties, have even been compared to ibuprofen in their ability to reduce inflammation. A landmark 2013 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that people who consumed a Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil had a significantly lower risk of heart attack, stroke, and death from cardiovascular causes. Another study reveals that higher olive oil consumption correlates with lower risks of heart disease, stroke, and overall mortality, which are the key benefits of Mediterranean-style diets. Coconut oil Coconut oil, on the other hand, has gained popularity thanks to its high content of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which, as per studies , are believed to be more easily metabolized by the liver and used as a quick energy source. While that may sound promising, the issue lies in the type of fat that coconut oil is mostly made of: saturated fat. Now, the saturated fat in coconut oil is typically 80–90%, with much of it being lauric and myristic acid. These fats increase both HDL ('good') and LDL ('bad') cholesterol. However, rising LDL remains a key risk factor for heart disease. A 2020 meta-analysis found that coconut oil raised LDL cholesterol levels more than unsaturated fats and vegetable oils, without clear evidence of long-term cardiovascular benefit, with no evidence of anti-inflammatory or blood sugar benefits. On the other hand, randomized trials provide mixed results. One BMJ Open study showed coconut oil didn't significantly raise LDL compared to olive oil, and even boosted HDL. However, the long-term benefits of coconut oil remain unclear. The American Heart Association has strongly advised against the use of coconut oil as a heart-healthy alternative. So while coconut oil may be better than trans fats or butter in limited quantities, it doesn't hold up against oils like EVOO when it comes to protecting your heart. Why olive oil is a clear winner Cholesterol control: A key advantage of olive oil lies in its fatty acid profile. EVOO is rich in monounsaturated fats, which lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol, striking a protective balance for the heart. EVOO also contains plant sterols and phenols that may interfere with cholesterol absorption and protect against oxidative damage. On the contrary, as per research , coconut oil elevates LDL significantly, by about 10 mg/dL or more, when compared to non-tropical oils. Stability under heat: When it comes to cooking, EVOO isn't just heart-healthy, it's heat-stable. Its phenolic compounds prevent degradation at high temperatures, making it a safer choice for sautéing and roasting than commonly believed. Meanwhile, coconut oil scores well in stability tests, but lacks the antioxidant protection EVOO offers, making it a poor choice in comparison to olive oil. Inflammation and beyond: Chronic inflammation is one of the silent drivers of heart disease. Olive oil's antioxidants and oleocanthal reduce inflammatory markers, supporting cardiovascular and mental health over the long term. Coconut oil, on the other hand, does not provide these anti-inflammatory compounds and may worsen inflammation by raising LDL. Which one to use in the kitchen? In terms of smoke point and cooking stability, both oils have their place: EVOO has a moderate smoke point (~375°F) and is excellent for sautéing, roasting, and salad dressings. Its antioxidants actually make it quite stable for most home cooking methods. It is ideal for dressing, drizzling, or low-to-medium heat cooking. Additionally, as EVOO is rich in heart-supportive fats and antioxidants, it makes it one of the healthiest pantry staples. However, consuming too much olive oil, despite its health benefits, can lead to weight gain, digestive issues, and potentially exacerbate inflammation. Additionally, the high fat content can upset the digestive system, causing discomfort like diarrhea, bloating, and flatulence. Coconut Oil, with a higher smoke point (~450°F for refined versions), is better suited for high-heat cooking and baking. It also has a strong flavor, which can be a plus or a minus depending on your dish. However, consuming too much coconut oil, which is high in saturated fat, can lead to increased levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol, potentially raising the risk of heart disease and stroke. It's also high in calories, and excessive intake without dietary adjustments could contribute to weight gain. Coconut oil is great for adding flavor to tropical, Asian, or baking recipes. Choose virgin or unrefined versions for better benefits, and limit intake to occasional use to avoid excess saturated fat. The final verdict? To sum it up in one line: use coconut oil sparingly, olive oil liberally. If heart health is your priority (as it should be), extra virgin olive oil should be your #1 choice. With decades of evidence supporting its ability to lower cholesterol, reduce inflammation, and decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease, EVOO is not just a kitchen staple; it's a medical recommendation. Coconut oil, on the other hand, while flavorful and trendy, should be seen more as an occasional indulgence than a daily go-to. If you enjoy the taste, use it on special occasions or maybe on weekend cooking. However, turning it into your daily cooking oil might not be in the best interest of your health. This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or using any product for health purposes.
India Today
8 hours ago
- India Today
Genes and the brain: The role of testing in early diagnosis
We are all aware that the brain is one of the most vital parts of our bodies. Despite this, it remains largely overlooked in broader conversations on physical health. In India, concerns around brain health are steadily increasing, with nearly 15 million people affected by neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's, stroke, and epilepsy, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).advertisementIndia Today spoke with Dr Thenral S Geetha, Principal Scientist at MedGenome, to understand how genetics is transforming the way we approach brain health and what this could mean for individuals and families navigating complex neurological ROLE OF GENES IN BRAIN HEALTHAnswers to our brain's health often lie in our genes. From a seizure in a child to an adult's struggle with memory, understanding our genetic makeup is increasingly helping us uncover the true origins of various brain conditions across all ages. It is essential to acknowledge this crucial relationship between genetics and brain health, addressing the factors that influence our predisposition to neurological diseases, cognitive function, and mental the right tests, doctors and families can now get a clearer picture sooner, leading to more accurate diagnoses, more effective treatments, and, importantly, peace of mind. These tests aren't just about figuring out "why"—they're also about discovering "what's next," whether that involves treatment, family planning, or long-term BRAIN PROBLEMS ARE LINKED TO YOUR GENESWhile some brain conditions are inherited, others arise from new variations in genes that weren't passed down but still impact how the condition develops. Doctors may consider a genetic cause when symptoms begin early in life, when multiple family members are affected, or when the condition shows unusual example, epilepsy is more likely to have a genetic basis if seizures begin in babies or young children, especially when no other cause is clear. Identifying the gene involved can help clinicians choose the right treatment early. In children, developmental delays, learning challenges, or autistic traits—particularly when combined with other physical anomalies—can also have a genetic conditions, however, emerge later in life. Huntington's disease, for example, typically begins between the ages of 30 and 50 and affects movement, cognition, and behaviour. It results from a mutation in the HTT gene. Even Alzheimer's disease, which is usually linked with ageing, can have a genetic link, especially in early-onset cases or when there's a strong family history. Similarly, Parkinson's disease may have a genetic influence even when there is no clear family history, with specific gene mutations interacting with environmental risk GENETIC TESTING CAN DO FOR YOUIf conventional scans and exams don't explain a brain condition, doctors may recommend genetic testing to uncover the cause. Today, several testing methods are available in India, including:advertisementGene panels: Targeted testing of genes known to be linked to specific conditions like early-onset epilepsy or Parkinson'sWhole-exome sequencing: Scans all known genes for changesChromosomal microarray: Detects missing or duplicated DNA segments, often used for developmental disorders in childrenThese tests are typically done through blood or, in some cases, saliva. The results can confirm diagnoses, narrow down treatment options, or help identify future risks. Importantly, they offer families clarity—and with that, the power to make informed counselling is a critical part of the process. Genetic counsellors help families understand inheritance patterns, how genes work, the types of tests available, and possible management or treatment routes. They also provide emotional support to help navigate the psychological impact of genetic TESTING EARLY MATTERSEarly genetic testing not only shortens the diagnostic journey but also reduces long-term care costs. For children, early diagnosis enables tailored support and helps families prepare for the future. In adults, knowing the genetic cause supports better care, lifestyle changes, and treatment planning. Genetic insights can also guide couples in pregnancy planning, especially when a family history of neurological issues tests deepen our understanding of brain conditions, opening doors to personalised medicine and more precise care.- Ends
