Latest news with #Imran
Pink Villa
a day ago
- Health
- Pink Villa
Exclusive: Pediatrician Dr Imran Patel advises ‘zero screen time' for babies under 2 years of age, here's why
Dr. Imran Patel has emerged as one of the most favourite pediatricians on social media, all thanks to his interactive videos with kids on Instagram. The doctor has given a peek into how the health and wellness of babies can be monitored without getting them restless or afraid. In an exclusive interview with Pinkvilla, Dr. Imran discussed the current trend of giving screen time to children under 2 years of age and how it hinders the growth and development of infants. Does screen time make children aggressive? Speaking on The Pinkvilla Podcast, Dr. Imran Patel addressed the side effects of allowing children to have screen time. He explained how this eventually leads to them becoming more aggressive by nature, lacking concentration skills, and even hampers their ability to engage in physical activity. Dr Imran says, 'Bacche aggressive hote hai, attention span kam ho jaata hai, concentrate nahi kar paate, physical activity nahi ho paati hai, outdoor activity nahi ho paa rahi hai.' Dr Imran Patel advises zero screen time for children less than 2 years of age Dr. Imran highlighted that, apart from altering behavioral skills, exposure to screen time from an early age onwards also impacts the child's cognitive functions. He reiterated the World Health Organization's recommendation on the matter, which strictly advises zero screen time for children under 2 years of age. In his words, 'Less than 2 years: WHO recommend karta hai aur Dr. Imran Patel aur saare pediatricians recommend karte hai less than 2 years; zero screen time.' Does the fast-paced modern life lead children to spend more time on screens? Moving forward in the elucidating conversation, Dr. Imran Patel highlighted how the issue of children getting more screen time than required by their age is a by-product of the modern lifestyle. He explained how parents often find themselves lacking time to spend with their children, and as a result, they resort to handing them mobile phones at a young age. The pediatrician further revealed some of the dire consequences of excessive screen time to children at a young age, resulting in speech delay, autism, deficiency, aggressiveness, and other traits.
BusinessToday
16-07-2025
- Health
- BusinessToday
Why Dementia Deserves More Attention in Malaysia
Forgetfulness is often seen as a normal part of ageing, but dementia is a serious medical condition—and it's affecting Malaysians earlier and more frequently than many realise. Consultant neurologists are raising the alarm: lifestyle factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol are key contributors, and changes need to begin long before symptoms appear. Globally, more than 55 million people are living with dementia—a figure expected to rise to 78 million by 2030, according to the World Health Organisation. In Malaysia, where nearly 16% of the population is aged 60 and above, local studies estimate over 200,000 people are affected. However, due to limited awareness and screening, the true number is likely much higher. Recognising the Difference Between Dementia and Normal Ageing Many people assume that misplacing objects or repeating stories is just part of getting older. But Dr Mohamad Imran bin Idris, Consultant Neurologist at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City, explains that dementia involves more significant cognitive decline. 'When someone can no longer manage daily tasks like cooking, handling finances, or holding a coherent conversation, that's when dementia should be suspected,' he said. He adds that while some slowing of memory is typical with age, dementia goes further, impacting language, decision-making, and even the ability to recognise familiar faces. Importantly, Alzheimer's disease is just one form of dementia. In Malaysia, vascular dementia—caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often linked to chronic conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes—is also common. 'Age is a risk factor we cannot change,' Dr Imran said, 'but vascular risks are manageable. By controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar early, we can lower the risk of developing dementia.' Understanding Different Forms of Dementia It is important to recognise that Alzheimer's disease is only one form of dementia. Dr Mohamad Imran bin Idris stresses that dementia is an umbrella term, and in Malaysia, vascular dementia is also common. This form results from reduced blood flow to the brain, often following a stroke or linked to chronic conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. With the high prevalence of hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking, and diabetes in Malaysia, vascular dementia presents a significant health risk. 'Age is a risk factor we cannot change,' Dr Imran explains, 'but vascular risks are manageable. Early control of blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar can reduce the chance of developing dementia.' Younger people are not immune to the condition, either. Dementia is frequently dismissed as normal ageing or depression, but Dr Imran points out cases of early-onset dementia in individuals as young as their 30s and 40s. 'We've seen patients showing early signs—often after strokes or years of untreated chronic illness,' he said. Dementia can develop quietly over decades, with brain damage accumulating well before symptoms become apparent. This misconception that dementia only affects the elderly often delays diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the need for greater awareness. The Power of Sleep, Social Connection, and Mental Variety While diet and exercise are known to benefit brain health, Dr Imran highlights sleep as a crucial, yet neglected, factor. 'There's a tendency to glorify late nights and little rest, but poor sleep has a bigger impact on brain health than most people realise,' he said. He also stresses the importance of social interaction. 'Spontaneous conversation exercises your brain in ways that repetitive games don't,' he explained. Games like Sudoku or chess offer some benefit, but overused digital games often fail to challenge the brain over time. 'Your brain thrives on novelty, not routine.' Caring for the Caregivers Caring for a loved one with dementia can take a significant emotional and physical toll on families. Dr Mohamad Imran bin Idris, Consultant Neurologist at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City, warns that without proper support, caregivers risk becoming unwell themselves. 'We risk having two unwell individuals instead of one—the patient and the caregiver,' he said. Establishing routines, such as regular walks in the park or scheduled visits, can offer a sense of predictability and comfort for the person with dementia. Dr Imran also highlights the value of dementia-focused daycare centres, which provide structured, safe environments for patients while giving caregivers a much-needed break. At the heart of care, however, lies empathy. Dr Imran shared the poignant example of actor Gene Hackman, who reportedly lived with severe Alzheimer's and, following his wife's passing, remained trapped in a cycle of confusion—unable to comprehend her absence but continuing to care for her. 'People with dementia live only in the present moment,' he explained. 'They can't access the past or plan ahead. That can be frightening, especially when they feel isolated.' His message is simple but powerful: treat people with dementia with compassion. 'They may not remember your name,' he said, 'but they'll remember how you made them feel.' Emerging Treatments and the Hope of Prevention Though dementia has long been seen as an irreversible decline, hope is emerging. 'Two years ago, treatment options were limited,' Dr Imran says, 'but now medicines can slow progression. We are entering a new era.' Advances in screening—from digital assessments to blood tests detecting early brain changes—are becoming more accessible, though genetic testing should be considered carefully and only when medically indicated. Prevention Starts in Your 40s Dr Imran encourages Malaysians to take brain health seriously from midlife. 'Control your blood pressure, stay socially engaged, prioritise sleep, and eat a balanced diet. These aren't just lifestyle tips—they're investments in your brain's future,' he said. His message is clear: dementia is not inevitable, and it is not just a concern for the elderly. 'If we protect our hearts to prevent heart attacks, why don't we do the same for our brains?' Related
Focus Malaysia
15-07-2025
- Health
- Focus Malaysia
Dementia is not just old age: Why Malaysians need to start paying attention
DEMENTIA isn't just forgetfulness—it's about slowly losing the essence of who you are. In Malaysia, this silent epidemic is growing faster than most realise, driven by an ageing population and widespread chronic illnesses like diabetes and high blood pressure. Globally, dementia affects more than 55 million people, and the World Health Organisation (WHO) predicts this number will reach 78 million by 2030. Malaysia, with nearly 16% of its population aged 60 and above, is no exception. Local studies suggest over 200,000 Malaysians are living with dementia, and the figure is likely underestimated due to low awareness and limited screening. Dementia vs normal ageing It often begins subtly—a forgotten name, a repeated story, a misplaced item. 'When someone can no longer perform tasks they once managed easily—cooking, managing finances, holding a conversation—that's when we begin to suspect dementia,' said Sunway Medical Centre consultant neurologist Dr Mohamad Imran Idris. According to Dr Imran, while slower memory and reduced mental agility can come with age, dementia is different. 'The hallmark of dementia isn't just forgetfulness. It is when thinking skills interfere with daily life—language, judgement, even recognising familiar faces. That is when it is time to get help,' he noted. The vascular link in dementia, why lifestyle matters Dr Imran also clarified a common confusion: Alzheimer's disease is just one type of dementia. 'Dementia is an umbrella term. Alzheimer's is the most well-known, but in Malaysia, vascular dementia caused by impaired blood flow to the brain, often after a stroke or due to chronic conditions like high blood pressure is also very common,' he said. Conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking and diabetes are key contributors to vascular dementia, and all are common among Malaysians. 'Technically, age is a risk factor we can't control. But vascular risks are manageable. You can reduce your risk by managing your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels early,' he said. That's a message not enough people hear. Dementia is often dismissed as just ageing or depression, but its roots can be medical—even in younger adults. 'It's not just grandma or grandpa anymore. We've seen people in their 40s and even 30s developing early signs after strokes or years of unmanaged chronic illness,' Dr Imran shared. The damage builds silently over decades; when symptoms show, the brain may already be severely affected. Sleep, social life—and that game of Sudoku While diet and exercise are known brain boosters, one often overlooked factor is sleep. 'People glorify working late, surviving on minimal rest. But poor sleep affects brain health more than we realise,' said Dr Imran. Socialising also plays a powerful role. 'Talking with friends, engaging in conversation—these spontaneous, unpredictable interactions challenge the brain and help preserve cognitive function,' he explained. Repetitive digital games may feel mentally stimulating but offer little long-term benefit. 'Games like Candy Crush quickly become predictable. Your brain needs novelty,' he added. The role of family and caregivers The burden of care for people with dementia often falls on families. It is emotionally and physically draining, and support is limited. 'We risk having two unwell people instead of one—the patient and the caregiver,' Dr Imran cautioned. 'Structure and routine can help. If the person with dementia has a routine—going to the park on Mondays, visiting the children on Wednesdays—it helps them feel grounded.' Daycare centres designed specifically for dementia care also offer a small but promising model. They provide safe, stimulating environments for patients and respite for caregivers. Hope on the horizon While dementia has long been seen as a hopeless diagnosis, science is now catching up. 'Two years ago, I'd have said nothing can be done. But now we have medicines that can slow its progression. We're entering a new era of treatment,' said Dr Imran. Screening tools—from digital cognitive assessments to blood tests that detect early brain changes—are becoming more accessible. However, Dr Imran recommends careful consideration of genetic testing unless medically advised. His advice is to start thinking seriously about brain health in your 40s and 50s. 'Control your blood pressure, stay socially engaged, sleep well, and eat a balanced diet. These aren't just good habits—they're investments in your future cognitive health,' he said. 'If we care for our hearts to avoid a heart attack, why aren't we doing the same for our brains?' ‒ July 15, 2025 Main image: iStock
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First Post
15-07-2025
- Politics
- First Post
Pakistan creates new paramilitary force after jailed ex-PM Imran Khan threatens nationwide protest
Ahead of protests by jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the Pakistani government has created a new paramilitary force, prompting fears that it could be used to crush PTI's movement and target political opponents. read more A supporter of jailed former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan holds his poster during a gathering by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party to observe Martyrs' Day to honour those who allegedly died during last month's protest, in Peshawar on December 15, 2024. (Photo: Abdul Majeed/AFP) As jailed former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's followers are planning nationwide protests, the Shehbaz Sharif government has created a new paramilitary force, prompting fears that it could be used to crush protests and harass political opponents. Imran's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced nationwide protests starting August 5 — the second anniversary of Imran's arrest. President Asif Ali Zardari on Sunday signed off the proposal to convert Frontier Constabulary (FC) from a border security force largely deployed in the country's tribal northwest into the Federal Constabulary, which would have a nationwide mandate of maintaining law and order, supplementing the law enforcement agencies, and carrying out a range of duties, according to Dawn newspaper. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The ordinance that Zardari promulgated also said that the government may also grant the FC full policing powers at discretion. The PTI has already voiced concerns that the new force could be unleashed on political opponents. The new force 'should not be used as a gimmick to silence political opponents, as has been previously witnessed when the government applied such laws against a large number of the PTI leadership and supporters', said PTI spokesperson Zulfikar Bukhari, according to Reuters. For more than two years, the Sharif-led government —with the backing of the all-powerful military-intelligence establishment— has been cracking down on PTI. PTI chief Imran has been in jail since August 2023 and several top leaders have been jailed as well. It was also barred from fielding candidates on its symbol in the 2024 parliamentary elections. 'We are alarmed' The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has said that it was 'alarmed' by the creation of the new force. 'We are alarmed by the changes being made to the security and law enforcement structure of the country without any debate in parliament,' said Human Rights Commission of Pakistan Secretary Haris Khalique. For more than two years, the Pakistani government and PTI have traded charges. While the PTI has accused the government of a systematic crackdown, the government has accused the PTI of engaging in violence in the name of political activities. Since his ouster as the premier in 2022, Khan has accused the Pakistani military of conspiring with the political parties and the United States to oust him. The crackdown on his party intensified after his followers attacked the Pakistani Army headquarters in Rawalpindi and stormed the houses of top army commanders in May 2023 while protesting his arrest. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
The Star
15-07-2025
- Sport
- The Star
Polo MVP Imran hopes to earn spot for SEA Games
PETALING JAYA: National polo player Imran Khan Mohd Moiz is hoping his eye-catching performance in the Kuala Lumpur Polo Club Triple Crown League will boost his chances of earning a call-up to the SEA Games in Thailand this December. The tournament, which ended on Sunday, saw Imran guiding his team Tyrant Windhorse to the final at the Kuala Lumpur Polo Club in Ampang. However, they fell short against La Famila Klap and had to settle for second place. Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Full access to Web and App. RM 13.90/month RM 9.73 /month Billed as RM 9.73 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter. RM 12.39/month RM 8.63 /month Billed as RM 103.60 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.
