Latest news with #GIANT
Hans India
5 days ago
- Health
- Hans India
Indian genetics demand tailored obesity solutions, finds new global study led by CSIR-CCMB
A recent international study led by the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB) in Hyderabad has revealed that lifestyle-based interventions or targeted nutrient supplementation could be more effective for Indians at genetic risk of obesity than generic global approaches. The research highlights a significant genetic variation in obesity risk between Indian and European populations, underlining the need for culturally and biologically relevant health strategies. The study, spearheaded by Dr. Giriraj Ratan Chandak and his team at CSIR-CCMB, forms part of a major global research initiative involving 600 scientists from over 500 institutions. Drawing on genetic data from more than 5 million individuals, including inputs from the GIANT consortium and 23andMe, the study explored how genetic and lifestyle factors combine to influence obesity. A key finding of the study was that the widely used Polygenic Risk Score (PRS)—a genetic test designed to predict obesity—performs more accurately in populations of European ancestry than in those with South Asian ancestry, including Indians. While many obesity-related gene variants identified in Europeans were also tested on Indian samples, most showed limited predictive power, reaffirming the unique nature of Indian genetic makeup. To dig deeper, the researchers analysed genome data from Indian individuals—both diabetics and non-diabetics—who have been monitored over the past two decades. They discovered a distinct pattern of central or abdominal obesity in Indians, unlike the more generalized obesity seen in Western populations. Interestingly, individuals with higher genetic risk for obesity responded better to lifestyle interventions like diet and exercise. However, they were also more prone to weight regain once those interventions ended. 'This finding mirrors earlier studies on height, where European genetic markers had limited applicability to Indians. It appears that diet, nutrition, and environment might play an equally, if not more, critical role in determining obesity in Indians,' said Dr. Chandak. Using Indian genomic data, the team developed a more region-specific PRS to model obesity risk and improve early detection, especially among children. The refined model can predict adulthood obesity by the age of five, making it twice as effective as older models. This breakthrough could enable early preventive measures among genetically vulnerable children, a move that could significantly reduce the burden of obesity-linked diseases such as diabetes and hypertension in India. 'This is not just a test. It's a predictive tool for proactive care,' said Assistant Professor Roelof Smit from the NNF Centre for Basic Metabolic Research at the University of Copenhagen and lead author of the global study, published in Nature Medicine. 'By identifying risk early, especially before lifestyle habits solidify, we can dramatically improve health outcomes.' The findings reiterate that while genetics do play a role, customised lifestyle strategies are critical for Indian populations. The future of obesity prevention in India may rest in precision medicine, where treatment plans are based not just on global data but on uniquely Indian insights.
Time of India
24-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Can genetics predict obesity? New study may help spot risk in kids before it is too late
Imagine knowing whether your child may be at risk for obesity—not years after weight gain begins, but long before it shows. A groundbreaking new study published in Nature Medicine suggests this could soon be possible, thanks to a genetic tool called polygenic risk scores (PGS). Led by over 600 scientists from 500 institutions worldwide, and drawing data from The Genetic Investigation of ANthropometric Traits (GIANT) consortium and 23andMe, the study analyzed genetic information from more than 5 million individuals. Their goal? To develop a more precise way to predict a person's likelihood of developing obesity, starting from childhood. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Please select course: Select a Course Category PGDM Public Policy Degree Artificial Intelligence Project Management Finance healthcare Digital Marketing Technology Leadership Data Science others MBA MCA Others Data Analytics CXO Healthcare Cybersecurity Data Science Management Product Management Operations Management Design Thinking Skills you'll gain: Financial Analysis & Decision Making Quantitative & Analytical Skills Organizational Management & Leadership Innovation & Entrepreneurship Duration: 24 Months IMI Delhi Post Graduate Diploma in Management (Online) Starts on Sep 1, 2024 Get Details What the Study Found Current obesity risk tools largely rely on family history, diet, and lifestyle. But this study's new ancestry-specific and multi-ancestry polygenic risk scores proved about twice as effective in predicting obesity in adulthood compared to existing assessments. In people of European ancestry, for example, the score accounted for 17.6% of an individual's risk of developing a high Body Mass Index (BMI)—a key indicator of obesity. The study included a broad participant base: 70% had European ancestry, 14.4% were Hispanic, 8.4% East Asian, 4.6% African, and 1.5% South Asian. But while the tool is promising, it isn't a crystal ball. 'Obesity is not only about genetics,' said Dr. Ruth Loos, study co-author and professor at the University of Copenhagen's Novo Nordisk Foundation Center, in an interview with NBC News. 'Genetics alone can never accurately predict obesity… other factors, such as lifestyle, need to be part of the predictions.' You Might Also Like: This one food habit could shield you from arthritis, obesity and diabetes. Science backs what Indian kitchens always knew The Global Obesity Epidemic The urgency behind such research is clear. Obesity is now considered one of the world's fastest-growing public health threats. According to World Health Organization (WHO) data: In 2022, 2.5 billion adults were overweight, including over 890 million with obesity. Childhood obesity is skyrocketing—35 million children under five were overweight in 2024, and over 390 million adolescents aged 5–19 were overweight in 2022. Obesity was a factor in 3.7 million global deaths in 2021 alone. Perhaps more troubling is the shift in obesity prevalence from wealthier nations to low- and middle-income countries, where children face a 'double burden' of both undernutrition and rising obesity rates. The WHO warns that these children often live in environments where high-calorie, nutrient-poor foods are cheap and accessible, but healthier choices and safe spaces for exercise are not. Why Early Detection Matters Obesity is much more than a number on a scale. It increases the risk of nearly 200 diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, asthma, and certain cancers. For children, the stakes are even higher: obesity not only impacts their physical and mental health but also academic performance and social wellbeing due to stigma and bullying. Importantly, childhood obesity often carries into adulthood, setting the stage for chronic illness and shorter lifespans. 'Children with obesity are very likely to be adults with obesity,' notes the WHO. You Might Also Like: Are you really obese? Experts challenge BMI as only measure of obesity, propose new guidelines for better health What Can Be Done? While genetic scores like the one developed in this study could revolutionize early detection, experts caution that there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Dr. Karen Hacker, director of the CDC's National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention, told USA TODAY that effective obesity prevention must address broader social determinants of health—including access to healthcare, nutritious food, physical activity, and education. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends multifaceted strategies: from medication and surgery for treatment, to policy-driven efforts ensuring access to healthy food, safe physical environments, and stigma-free support systems.
Extra.ie
24-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Extra.ie
Watch: Pierce Brosnan transforms into Brendan Ingle for Prince Naseem biopic
The first trailer has been released for the biopic of former world featherweight champion 'Prince' Naseem Hamed, starring Pierce Brosnan and Amir El-Masry. Pierce portrays Dublin-born boxing trainer Brendan Ingle, while Amir takes on the role of Naseem 'Naz' Hamed himself. The film is executive produced by Sylvester Stallone and written and directed by Rowan Athale. Pierce Brosnan as Brendan Ingle and Amir El-Masry as Naseem Hamed in Giant. Pic: True Brit Entertainment The biopic follows the real-life story of Prince Naseem 'Naz' Hamed, a British-Yemeni boxer, and his journey from 'humble beginnings to becoming a world champion'. It also explores his training under Brendan Ingle who played a crucial role in his success. The synopsis reads: 'Charting his inspiring rags-to-riches underdog tale from his humble beginnings in Sheffield to becoming champion of the world and a global sporting icon in the 1990s, the film explores the unlikely and tender relationship between Naz and his Irish boxing trainer Brendan Ingle; and the instrumental role that Ingle played on his road to success.' Pierce Brosnan looks transformed in Giant. Pic: True Brit Entertainment Brendan was one of the Ireland boxing scene's most influential figures during a decorated career in which he trained four world champions, including Naz and Johnny Nelson. The trainer became renowned for getting young lives on the straight and narrow through discipline and fitness. Naseem Hamad and Brendan Ingle during a Press Conference in Dublin in 1996. Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile Brendan passed away in 2018 at the age of 77 and the entire boxing world paid tribute to him. Naz said after his death: 'I can honestly say that if it were not for Brendan Ingle, I would not have achieved all I did in the sport of boxing.' Pierce Brosnan takes on the role of Brendan with a transformed look that rids him of his usual full head of hair and sports a pair of Brendan's iconic glasses. Life hits hard. Legends hit harder. Watch the new trailer for GIANT, based on the incredible true story of British sporting icon Prince Naseem Hamed and his trainer Brendan Ingle. Starring Pierce Brosnan and Amir El-Masry, from exec producer Sylvester Stallone. IN CINEMAS SOON. — Giant The Movie (@GiantTheMovie) July 23, 2025 The trailer also gives a first look – or listen – at the Dublin accent that Pierce adopted for the role. A release date is yet to be announced for the film but it is expected to arrive at the end of this year.
Barnama
21-06-2025
- Business
- Barnama
Seventeen Of State's Best Honoured At INPenang International Awards 2025
GEORGE TOWN, June 21 (Bernama) -- The INPenang International Awards 2025 here tonight honoured 17 Penang-born individuals and state organisations for achieving excellence in their respective fields while contributing to society. Held biennially, the international awards recognise excellence across a wide range of categories and this year, the INPenang Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Malaysia Retailers Association president Datuk Andrew Lim Tatt Keong, who also is Group Executive Chairman of GIANT, Mercato, TMC and GAMA. Among the recipients of the INPenang National Awards were Dr Mary CH Quah for Women's Leadership; Dr Kenny Loh (Top Cultural Fashion Designer); Wonderfood Museum Penang (Best Tourism Experience); Sunway Carnival Mall (Best Retail Mall) and Ghee Hiang Manufacturing Co Sdn Bhd (Best Heritage Brand). Meanwhile, five individuals were honoured with the International Outstanding Achievers Award, namely former Consul General of Thailand in Penang Datuk Raschada Jiwalai; Myanmar Airways International and Mingalar Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Commercial Officer, Tanes Kumar; Honorary Chairman and Non-Executive Director of Value Partners Group, Hong Kong, Datuk Seri Cheah Cheng Hye; Sunway Healthcare Group president Datuk Lau Beng Long and The Smart Investor Director and Managing Editor Cheah Chay Tiong. Human Resources Minister Steven Sim who officiated and presented the awards, praised the recipients for putting Penang on the map both nationally and internationally. 'The stories behind each award recipient tonight are a testament to what is possible when passion meets purpose. Whether in business, the arts, social causes or innovation, these individuals and organisations have not only excelled in their fields but have also contributed meaningfully to the greater good. 'As Minister of Human Resources, I am proud to see how Penang continues to be a hub of talent and forward-thinking leadership,' he said in his speech. Besides the above, dré Coklat Sdn Bhd, Space Ace Elite Sdn Bhd and Alan Lim Hin Loong togather with Catherine Lee Siow Mei (Fusion) were named as winners of the INPenang Emerging Entrepreneur Award, recognising their innovative ventures and entrepreneurial success. One of the key events highlights was the appearance of 'Baby Hawke, a small robot powered by leading Artificial intelligence (AI) and Robotics industrial automation solutions provider, UB GROUP, which delivered the trophies to the winners on stage.
The Sun
21-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
INPenang Awards 2025 honour excellence and innovation
GEORGE TOWN: The INPenang International Awards 2025 here tonight honoured 17 Penang-born individuals and state organisations for achieving excellence in their respective fields while contributing to society. Held biennially, the international awards recognise excellence across a wide range of categories and this year, the INPenang Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Malaysia Retailers Association president Datuk Andrew Lim Tatt Keong, who also is Group Executive Chairman of GIANT, Mercato, TMC and GAMA. Among the recipients of the INPenang National Awards were Dr Mary CH Quah for Women's Leadership; Dr Kenny Loh (Top Cultural Fashion Designer); Wonderfood Museum Penang (Best Tourism Experience); Sunway Carnival Mall (Best Retail Mall) and Ghee Hiang Manufacturing Co Sdn Bhd (Best Heritage Brand). Meanwhile, five individuals were honoured with the International Outstanding Achievers Award, namely former Consul General of Thailand in Penang Datuk Raschada Jiwalai; Myanmar Airways International and Mingalar Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Commercial Officer, Tanes Kumar; Honorary Chairman and Non-Executive Director of Value Partners Group, Hong Kong, Datuk Seri Cheah Cheng Hye; Sunway Healthcare Group president Datuk Lau Beng Long and The Smart Investor Director and Managing Editor Cheah Chay Tiong. Human Resources Minister Steven Sim who officiated and presented the awards, praised the recipients for putting Penang on the map both nationally and internationally. 'The stories behind each award recipient tonight are a testament to what is possible when passion meets purpose. Whether in business, the arts, social causes or innovation, these individuals and organisations have not only excelled in their fields but have also contributed meaningfully to the greater good. 'As Minister of Human Resources, I am proud to see how Penang continues to be a hub of talent and forward-thinking leadership,' he said in his speech. Besides the above, dré Coklat Sdn Bhd, Space Ace Elite Sdn Bhd and Alan Lim Hin Loong togather with Catherine Lee Siow Mei (Fusion) were named as winners of the INPenang Emerging Entrepreneur Award, recognising their innovative ventures and entrepreneurial success. One of the key events highlights was the appearance of 'Baby Hawke, a small robot powered by leading Artificial intelligence (AI) and Robotics industrial automation solutions provider, UB GROUP, which delivered the trophies to the winners on stage.
