Latest news with #Pai
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Brain-damaging tapeworm infections on rise in Mumbai this monsoon
Doctors in Mumbai have raised an alarm over the rising number of tapeworm infections during the monsoon, warning that they could lead to deadly brain damage. They specifically pointed to the threat of 'neurocysticercosis', a severe condition caused by ingesting tapeworm eggs through contaminated food or water – risks that increase significantly during the rainy season. Neurocysticercosis is a preventable parasitic infection of the central nervous system, caused by the larval cysts of the pork tapeworm 'Taenia solium'. (Pic used for representation)(Unsplash) A report by Free Press Journal quoted neurologist Dr Pavan Pai, who said, 'During the monsoon, people frequently neglect fundamental food hygiene, but undercooked pork and inadequately washed vegetables are common carriers of tapeworm larvae.' He explained how the infection progresses: 'Once ingested, these parasites can migrate to the brain, developing into cysts that can trigger seizures, debilitating headaches, and even irreversible neurological harm.' The risk is further heightened by frequent flooding and poor sanitation during monsoon months, which create ideal conditions for such infections to spread. Pai stressed that children and those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable. He also issued a crucial warning: 'Never disregard persistent headaches or seizures. Seeking medical attention without delay can be life-saving and prevent potentially devastating consequences.' What is neurocysticercosis? All you need to know about this brain-affecting tapeworm infection According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), neurocysticercosis is a preventable parasitic infection of the central nervous system, caused by the larval cysts of the pork tapeworm 'Taenia solium'. Humans become infected by consuming undercooked pork, contaminated water, or through poor hygiene practices that expose them to tapeworm eggs. The initial intestinal infection, known as taeniasis, occurs when adult tapeworms reside in the gut. If untreated, the infection can progress to cysticercosis, in which larvae invade body tissues such as the muscles, skin, eyes, and most dangerously, the brain. Also Read | Conjunctivitis cases surge in Mumbai as monsoon sets in When these cysts lodge in the brain, the condition is called neurocysticercosis, the most severe form of the disease. It is a leading cause of seizures worldwide and can lead to irreversible neurological damage or even be fatal. The disease is classified as a Neglected Parasitic Infection, due to its significant impact and lack of awareness among healthcare providers. Neurocysticercosis is endemic in several regions, including Latin America, Southeast Asia, India, Nepal, China, and parts of Africa. Symptoms The clinical symptoms of neurocysticercosis depend on the location of the cysts in the brain, the number of parasites present, and the individual's immune response. Many people may remain asymptomatic, showing no clear signs of infection. When symptoms do appear, seizures are the most common, occurring in about 70% of symptomatic patients. These seizures can emerge at any stage of the disease. Epilepsy is the leading symptom and neurocysticercosis is the primary cause of late-onset seizures in low- and middle-income countries. Seizures are most commonly linked to parenchymal neurocysticercosis, where the cysts are located within the brain tissue itself. If untreated, seizures may continue and become recurrent, even with anti-seizure medications. are most commonly linked to parenchymal neurocysticercosis, where the cysts are located within the brain tissue itself. If untreated, seizures may continue and become recurrent, even with anti-seizure medications. Degenerating cysts are often responsible for seizures, as they trigger brain inflammation, swelling, nerve damage, and scarring (gliosis). The seizures result from both the inflammatory response of the body and the space-occupying effect of the cysts within the brain. Multiple cysts increase the likelihood of seizures, making the condition more difficult to manage. Active (living) cysts are typically linked to first-time seizures, while calcified cysts or granulomas—a later stage in the infection—are associated with chronic epilepsy. Other symptoms of neurocysticercosis include headaches, strokes, neuropsychiatric issues, and a gradual decline in cognitive or motor functions. Diagnosis Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the preferred diagnostic tool. It is especially effective in detecting intraventricular, subarachnoid, or small parenchymal cysts that may not be clearly visible on other scans. Computed Tomography (CT) Scan is useful for identifying the different stages of cyst development: Vesicular stage: Cysts appear non-enhancing (no visible inflammation or Oedema). Colloidal stage: Cysts become edematous and show contrast enhancement, indicating inflammation. Calcified stage: Cysts appear as hardened or mineralised lesions, often indicating an inactive or healed stage of infection. How can you prevent Neurocysticercosis is more common in regions where the transmission of Taenia solium is likely due to poor sanitation, lack of proper waste disposal, low education levels, and the presence of free-roaming pigs or unregulated pig slaughter practices. The transmission cycle requires both unsanitary conditions and domestic pigs. As areas undergo urbanization and development, these risk factors decrease, leading to a decline in transmission. However, because neurocysticercosis can take years to manifest, the impact of prevention efforts may not be immediately visible and often requires long-term commitment. Effective prevention involves improving hygiene and sanitation, raising awareness through education, and enforcing strict standards for pig farming and meat inspection.
North Wales Live
6 days ago
- Health
- North Wales Live
UK Health Security Agency issues travel advice for holidaymakers this summer
With summer now upon us, countless Britons are jetting off abroad for some much-needed relaxation. Yet before boarding that plane, it's crucial to stay informed about the latest health and safety recommendations. Dr Anjali Pai from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has championed this cause, creating an informative video packed with essential tips for travellers. As you look forward to your summer break abroad, Dr Pai emphasised that health remains paramount and shouldn't be overlooked. "My name is Anjali Pai, and I am one of the consultants in health protection and one of the border health leads of the UK Health Security Agency," she said in a post shared on X, reports Chronicle Live. Before we go on holiday, there are some things we can all do to reduce the risk of us becoming unwell. "First of all, you can check the Travel Health Pro website, which has got really good information on travelling and things to do before we travel. There are also government advisory websites on travel to other countries, if there are any health risks to be concerned with." With this in consideration, Dr Pai also highlighted the significance of immunisations in avoiding ailments both domestically and internationally. Certain nations require evidence of vaccinations, such as yellow fever certificates, for admission, reports the Mirror. Dr Pai added: "Things like hepatitis A and typhoid can be easily prevented by a vaccine." A further crucial suggestion from Dr Pai involves upholding proper hand and respiratory cleanliness. "A simple thing is hand hygiene," Dr Pai emphasised. "So, just washing your hands for 30 seconds with warm water and soap before you eat, after you go to the toilet, is a really simple measure that can prevent the spread of many infections. "Good respiratory hygiene, and by this, it's just about coughing and sneezing into a tissue, disposing of it sensibly and washing your hands afterwards. Our ChronicleLive Daily newsletter is free. You can sign up to receive it here. It will keep you up to date with all the latest breaking news and top stories from the North East. Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now "There are also other things, such as preventing yourself from getting mosquito bites by wearing long-sleeved clothing, using mosquito sprays and mosquito nets. "And finally, safe sexual health is something we should all be practising when we are abroad by using condoms." If you feel unwell after returning to the UK, seek medical attention, regardless of previous visits or where you've lived. NHS Inform offers additional advice: "You should seek medical help even if it's up to one month after you've been travelling. "Always make sure you tell the health professional that you've recently travelled abroad. This is especially important if you have been to a country where malaria is a risk."
Daily Mirror
22-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
UK health agency issues update to anyone with summer holiday booked
The government agency has created an informative video with essential tips for travellers With summer now here, countless Brits are flying abroad for some much-needed holiday time. But before jetting off, it's crucial to stay up to date with the latest health and safety advice. Dr Anjali Pai from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has taken the lead in this effort, creating an informative video with essential tips for travellers. As you eagerly await your summer trip abroad, Dr Pai emphasised that well-being remains important and should not be overlooked. "My name is Anjali Pai, and I am one of the consultants in health protection and one of the border health leads of the UK Health Security Agency," she said in a post shared to X. "Before we go on holiday, there are some things we can all do to reduce the risk of us becoming unwell. "First of all, you can check the Travel Health Pro website, which has got really good information on travelling and things to do before we travel. There are also government advisory websites on travel to other countries, if there are any health risks to be concerned with." Bearing this in mind, Dr Pai also outlined the importance of vaccinations in dodging illnesses both at home and abroad. Some countries mandate proof of vaccinations, such as yellow fever certificates, for entry. Dr Pai contiinued: "Things like hepatitis A and typhoid can be easily prevented by a vaccine." Another key recommendation from Dr Pai is to maintain good hand and respiratory hygiene. "A simple thing is hand hygiene," Dr Pai said. "So, just washing your hands for 30 seconds with warm water and soap before you eat, after you go to the toilet, is a really simple measure that can prevent the spread of many infections. "Good respiratory hygiene, and by this, it's just about coughing and sneezing into a tissue, disposing of it sensibly and washing your hands afterwards. "There are also other things, such as preventing yourself from getting mosquito bites by wearing long-sleeved clothing, using mosquito sprays and mosquito nets. "And finally, safe sexual health is something we should all be practising when we are abroad by using condoms." Seek medical attention if you feel unwell after returning to the UK, regardless of prior visits or residence. Further guidance from NHS Inform states: "You should seek medical help even if it's up to one month after you've been travelling. "Always make sure you tell the health professional that you've recently travelled abroad. This is especially important if you have been to a country where malaria is a risk."
Time of India
09-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Grok AI confuses Kash Patel with Ajit Pai: No, they're not even related
Over the weekend, users spotted a bizarre mix-up in Grok, Elon Musk's new AI chatbot. When asked about Kash Patel—a former Pentagon staffer and Trump associate—Grok confidently returned info about Ajit Pai, the ex‑chairman of the FCC under Trump. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Instead of talking about Patel's controversial nomination as FBI director, we got a deep dive on Pai's net neutrality rollback. A totally different guy. Kash Patel began his career in anti-terrorism and intelligence roles at the Pentagon and CIA before becoming a top aide to Devin Nunes on Capitol Hill. In recent news, he's been the subject of strong debate over his nomination as FBI director—Senate Democrats blocked him five months ago amid concerns over partisanship. He's of Indian heritage and had a viral moment at his confirmation hearing for touching his parents' feet and saying 'Jai Shri Krishna' In contrast, Ajit Pai is a former lawyer and regulator best known for leading the U.S. FCC from 2017 to 2021. He famously championed the end of net neutrality—earning him both praise and heated criticism. There's no real-world connection between Patel and Pai other than the similarity in their names. Grok likely pulled info from conflated or mislabeled sources—so it confidently spat back Pai's profile when prompted for Patel. It's a reminder that AI systems are only as smart as the data they're trained on. Musk's camp might argue it's just a simple bug that'll get fixed—but trust in AI relies on accuracy, especially around people in public life. Users need to double-check what AI tells them, especially about real people. This is a perfect reminder not to rely blindly on any tool. It's a classic AI data mix-up that underlines why we all need to fact-check—especially when tech gets names wrong.
India Today
25-06-2025
- Health
- India Today
How weight-loss drugs are impacting Indian women with PCOS and infertility
With the launch of Wegovy, a globally recognised weight-loss drug, and Mounjaro, earlier launched by US medicine company Eli Lilly, India has entered a new phase in the management of years, doctors and patients alike have grappled with the challenge of tackling obesity, especially in women. Now, with newer tools at hand, experts believe the tide may finally be gynaecologist Dr. Rishma Pai speaks at length about how obesity is no longer just a cosmetic issue, it is a medical condition with deep consequences, especially for women dealing with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), infertility, and post-menopausal health risks. According to Dr. Pai, nearly one in three women in India is living with obesity. 'Obesity is not just about appearance, it's ABCD: adiposity-based chronic disease,' she includes a wide range of health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, infertility, sleep apnea, arthritis, and even some cancers of the breast and women, the burden is heavy because obesity affects them differently, and often more severely, than men. With newer tools at hand like new-age drugs, experts believe the tide may finally be turning for obesity. () advertisementFrom adolescence to menopause, hormonal changes make it harder to lose weight, and easier to gain AND THE WEIGHT STRUGGLEPCOS affects 30–35% of young women in India and is closely linked to obesity. Dr. Pai, a consulting gynaecologist at Lilavati Hospital, PD Hinduja Hospital, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, says she sees many women battling irregular periods, acne, facial hair, and weight gain -- all classic signs of PCOS.'The sad part is that until now, we had very little to offer these young women. The older weight-loss medicines barely helped them lose 2–3 kg. It was frustrating for both doctors and patients,' she tells even a 5% weight loss can significantly improve symptoms.'Once these women lose just a bit of weight, periods become regular, ovulation gets better, and in many cases, fertility improves, without the need for any other medication," she adds. PCOS affects 30–35% of young women in India and is closely linked to obesity. () Dr. Pai sees this as a major step forward in pre-pregnancy care. 'Many women walk into my clinic weighing 85 kg and planning a pregnancy. If they become pregnant at this weight, they often cross 100 kg during pregnancy. This puts them at high risk for diabetes, hypertension, and complications. Doctors too are stressed managing these high-risk pregnancies.'advertisementShe recommends a focused pre-pregnancy weight-loss plan, ideally stopping the medication a month before trying to MENOPAUSE METABOLIC SHIFTMenopause presents another weight-related hurdle. 'Even women who've been slim their whole lives suddenly find their midsections expanding,' she says. This midlife weight gain is driven by hormonal shifts and puts women at increased risk for heart disease, metabolic disorders, and certain Pai stresses that women at every life stage, from puberty to menopause, must be supported in achieving a healthy body THE SCALE: SHAME, STIGMA AND MENTAL HEALTHDr. Pai calls to treat obesity with compassion, as even healthcare professionals can be biased. "When an overweight woman walks into a clinic, many assume she's lazy or careless. That's simply not true,' she problem is worsened by the pressure women face to look a certain way, especially in the age of social media. 'Pre-wedding weight loss has become almost compulsory. Brides starve themselves or opt for surgeries, just to look good in photos. But after the wedding, many regain all the weight,' she adds. A focused pre-pregnancy weight-loss plan, ideally stopping the medication a month before trying to conceive. () advertisementA 2022 Novo survey conducted across Asia-Pacific found that one-third of people with obesity refused to acknowledge their condition. Two-thirds blamed themselves for it. 'This shows how little we understand obesity as a chronic disease,' said Dr. DRUGS: NOT A MAGIC CURE, BUT A POWERFUL TOOLDr. Pai believes drugs like semaglutide (Wegovy) are not miracle cures, but they can be powerful insists that the use of these drugs must be part of a bigger, long-term strategy that includes counselling, behavioural change, and consistent drugs can be added to pre-pregnancy programs as well, to help women lose weight, become healthier, and then stop the medication one month prior to planning pregnancy. But this needs to be done very strategically, under medical supervision with a sustainable can't take these medicines for six months, then binge-eat and expect to maintain weight loss. Sustaining it is even harder than achieving it," she the results are motivating. 'When a woman sees even a few kgs drop, she feels confident and inspired. That's the start of a bigger transformation.'More than anything, Dr. Pai wants to change how we talk about weight: 'Let's stop saying thin equals healthy. Fitness is not just about looks. There are thin women with high body fat and low muscle mass. We need to create awareness—not judgement.'- EndsMust Watch
