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Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Hepatologist warns against taking zinc supplements for immunity, diabetes or heart health: ‘No evidence of benefits'
Do you take zinc supplements? Many people try to up their nutritional intake by supplementing their diets with extra vitamins and minerals, including zinc. But before you pop that pill, it is quite necessary to reach out to a physician and educate yourself. Many people take zinc supplements to boost immunity, treat the common cold, childhood diarrhoea, COVID-19 and other infections, and improve eye health.(Adobe Stock (For Representation)) Also Read | NHS surgeon shares what happens when you eat nuts every day: 'Your brain and gut will thank you' In a post shared on June 26, Dr Cyriac Abby Philips, aka The Liver Doc (a hepatologist), shared a guideline to taking these supplements, warning that popping them may not be as good as many believe. 'Are you on a Zinc supplement? Then please read this,' he wrote. Does taking zinc supplements actually have any benefits? According to the hepatologist, large prevention guidelines found no overall benefits to taking the supplement. Dr Philips revealed, 'The US Preventive Services Task Force reviews every good trial it can find on vitamins and minerals and whether they stop cancer or heart disease. It says there isn't enough evidence to show any benefit from zinc (alone or in multivitamins) for people who are already healthy.' He added that the trials also warn that more isn't automatically better because high doses can cause harm. He pointed out that many people take zinc supplements to boost immunity, treat common cold, childhood diarrhoea, COVID-19 and other infections, and improve eye health. However, he pointed out that the evidence is insufficient to recommend zinc supplements, citing various research studies and trials. For instance, Dr Philips cited the 2024 Cochrane review, which pooled 26 randomised studies and found that taking zinc every day does not stop you catching a cold or boost your immunity. Heart disease, diabetes and death Dr Philips pointed out that many take zinc supplements for heart disease and diabetes. However, meta-analyses show zinc supplements sometimes nudge blood sugar or cholesterol numbers, but none of them show fewer heart attacks, strokes or deaths. 'The bottom line: changing lab values doesn't matter if real-world outcomes don't improve, and current evidence hasn't crossed that line,' he stated. He concluded that for everyday healthy adults, swallowing extra zinc (no matter which high-tech form) doesn't prevent colds, COVID-19, cancer, heart disease, eye disease, or just getting sick. 'The only clearly proven medical role is as a drug for rare copper-overload disorders or for people who are demonstrably zinc-deficient. Eat a balanced diet and save your money on routine zinc supplements,' he suggested. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Influencer Tanner Martin dead at 30 of colon cancer — this was his first symptom
Utah-based influencer Tanner Martin, who died this week of colon cancer at the age of 30, said his five-year battle began with a single symptom. Martin was diagnosed with the disease, which occurs when cells in the colon grow out of control, in 2020 at the age of 25. While colon cancer is traditionally linked to older adults, diagnoses among younger people have skyrocketed in recent years. Oncologists have suggested that the concerning rise in youth cases and deaths could be due to obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, the Western diet, excess sugar consumption and environmental factors such as pollutants in the air, soil and water. The exact causes are still unclear. Martin's first symptom was a mild but persistent stomachache that began in 2020. He said that the pain was not debilitating but made him feel unwell. Gastrointestinal medical oncologist Benny Johnson notes that some 15% of colon cancer patients report abdominal pain, described as an 'intermittent crampy feeling.' Martin then began experiencing severe constipation. Though colon cancer can sometimes be asymptomatic, a change in bowel habits or stool — as well as rectal bleeding or weight loss — are among the classic symptoms. Experts maintain that constipation now and then isn't a cause for concern, but if you're normally regular — and then you're stopped up for weeks or months at a time — that's not normal and could be a sign that cancer is obstructing your bowels. 'If you notice persistent diarrhea, constipation or a change in the shape, size, consistency or frequency of your stool, don't simply brush it off as stress or diet changes,' Dr. Cedrek McFadden, a colorectal surgeon based in South Carolina and medical adviser to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, previously told The Post. Also, watch for fatigue. A low red blood cell count, known as anemia, is present in 30% to 75% of colorectal cancer patients and can contribute to feelings of exhaustion. Despite Martin's telltale symptoms, his initial bloodwork was normal, and it took six months for a specialist to recommend him for a colonoscopy. Because of the rise in younger cases, the US Preventive Services Task Force updated its colorectal cancer screening guidelines in 2021 to lower the recommended age to start screening from 50 to 45 for adults at average risk. By the time Martin underwent the procedure, doctors discovered that the cancer had spread from his colon to his liver. He was given a Stage 4 terminal diagnosis. According to the Washington Post, young people like Martin, who are of Native American descent, have the highest rate of colorectal cancer of any racial and ethnic group. Despite his grim prognosis, Martin finished college and found a job, but the fatigue from his treatments and the toll of several surgeries made it impossible for him to work. He began documenting his cancer journey on TikTok and Instagram, where his candor and optimism made him a viral sensation. Martin and his wife, Shay, also started the nonprofit Rebels Against Cancer. Martin, who had always dreamed of being a father, banked his sperm shortly after his diagnosis, as infertility is a common side effect of chemotherapy. In 2024, in light of what appeared to be an effective treatment for Martin, he and Shay decided to start a family. However, by 2025, Martin's condition had taken a turn for the worse, spreading to his lymph nodes, and he was uncertain whether he would live long enough to meet his daughter. He and Shay welcomed AmyLou last month. Martin announced his untimely passing in a prerecorded video shared by Shay on Wednesday. He wanted to record a 'lighthearted' video ahead of his death so Shay could upload it and focus on grieving. Martin, who did not have life insurance, also recorded a separate video in which he shared that his dying wish was for fans to donate to his widow and newborn daughter through a GoFundMe fundraiser, 'to help replace what I would be there for.' 'For less than the price of a hot and spicy McChicken (Tanner's words…LOL), you can give them a future Tanner only wished he could stay to provide,' the page said. The fundraiser has collected over $500,000 so far.
News18
28-05-2025
- Health
- News18
Breast Cancer: What's The Right Age To Start Mammography?
Last Updated: According to experts, women should begin annual mammogram screenings at the age of 40. However, this may vary depending on individual risk factors Breast cancer cases are rising rapidly among women in India. Every year, around 20 lakh women are diagnosed with breast cancer, and nearly 1 lakh lose their lives to the disease. The best way to detect and treat breast cancer early is through a mammogram — an X-ray test that helps spot cancer even before symptoms appear. But when should women start getting mammograms, and how often should they be done? Dr Laura Dean, a diagnostic radiologist at the Cleveland Clinic, has shared some important insights. When Should Women Start Getting Mammograms? According to Dr Dean, the most widely accepted recommendation is that women should begin annual mammogram screenings from the age of 40. However, this can vary based on individual risk factors. Women at a higher risk may be advised by their doctor to start screenings earlier. Recently, the US Preventive Services Task Force suggested getting a mammogram every two years from the age of 40. But in the US, where breast cancer cases are higher, annual screenings are still encouraged. Dr Dean says early detection through yearly mammograms can save more lives, with strong evidence supporting this approach. Do Men Need Mammograms Too? While breast cancer is more common in women, men can also develop the disease — although rarely. Dr Dean clarifies that this guidance mainly applies to women. However, men should still perform regular self-examinations. Any noticeable lump, swelling, or change in the chest area should be reported to a doctor immediately. Even individuals who have undergone breast removal are not completely free from the risk. Who Should Get Screened Early? Certain women need to start screening before 40. Dr Dean recommends that all women consult a doctor by the age of 30 to assess their risk. Early mammograms may be advised if there's a family history of breast cancer, gene mutations such as BRCA, dense breast tissue, or any underlying health conditions. In such cases, doctors may recommend starting screenings earlier than usual. Why Are Mammograms So Important? Globally, breast cancer claims over 6.85 lakh lives every year. In the United States, it is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women aged 35 to 54. Regular mammograms are the first line of defence against this deadly disease. Dr Dean stresses that screening allows for early detection, which can significantly improve chances of survival. A mammogram can identify unusual changes in breast tissue, prompting further tests like diagnostic mammograms or biopsies to confirm if it is cancer. Catching the disease early allows for timely treatment, potentially saving lives.
Time of India
28-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Why it's tough to detect prostate cancer
Former US president 's health was a matter of intense focus while he was in office due to his episodes of forgetfulness and verbal slip-ups. But amid the speculation over his alleged cognitive decline, a far more serious illness was silently progressing inside his body. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Biden, 82, was diagnosed with prostate cancer last week, and the disease has already metastasised to his bones. His condition has been characterised by a Gleason score of 9, near the top of the 6-10 scale used to grade prostate cancer severity. 'While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective management,' his office said. Usual, But Unexpected Delayed diagnosis, experts say, is common in people who skip regular health check-ups or overlook clear signs of the disease. However, they add that late detection in someone as high-profile as Biden, who was president of the US until Jan this year and, therefore, was regularly monitored by a team of doctors, is unexpected and concerning. While some have questioned whether Biden's cancer could have been detected earlier, experts stress that his doctors were likely following standard protocol. Specialists note that prostate cancer is usually easy to detect early through a simple blood test — Serum PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen). 'Early detection is possible in 99% of cases through PSA testing,' said Dr Amrendra Pathak, senior urologist at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi. However, PSA screening isn't routinely recommended for men over 70, as the risk of overdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment may outweigh the benefits, according to reports on Medium, the online publishing platform. Leading medical bodies — including the US Preventive Services Task Force and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network — recommend discontinuing routine PSA testing after a certain age, unless the patient is in exceptionally good health. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Given Biden's age and prior treatment for an enlarged prostate, the absence of a PSA test during his 2024 physical appears to be in line with the guidelines. A Tricky Customer Even with regular screening, however, prostate cancer can evade early detection. In some cases, the disease is metastatic from the outset, leaving no window for early diagnosis. In others, it may progress rapidly between PSA tests or fail to trigger elevated PSA levels at all. Studies also show that roughly 15% of men with prostate cancer may have normal PSA levels, especially since what is considered a 'normal' range increases with age. Dr Manav Suryavanshi, senior consultant and head of the urology division at Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Faridabad added: 'PSA is a critical marker, and in men who are predisposed to prostate cancer — due to family history, genetic mutations like BRCA1/2, or ethnicity — stricter and more frequent screening protocols are essential. In most clinical cases, if these protocols are followed rigorously, prostate cancer is usually detected at an early, localised stage where treatment is not only effective but also potentially curative. ' In early stages, when the disease is localised to the prostate, it can be cured by surgically removing the gland. But doctors say if it reaches a locally advanced stage, that is, if it spreads outside of the prostate gland into nearby tissues, multimodal therapy including surgery, radiotherapy, and hormonal treatment is required. Prostate cancer in India is on the rise, with nearly five lakh new cases being reported every year, said Dr Harit Chaturvedi, chairman, Max Institute of Cancer Care. The burden is expected to rise further due to population growth, increasing life expectancy, and an aging male population in the country.
The Star
25-05-2025
- Health
- The Star
What Joe Biden's prostate cancer diagnosis can teach us
The recent announcement of former US President Joe Biden's diagnosis with Gleason grade 9 advanced prostate cancer has drawn global attention to a disease that affects millions of men worldwide. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men in the United States, with over 288,300 new cases and approximately 34,700 deaths annually. In Malaysia, prostate cancer ranks as the third most common cancer among men, but late presentation remains a significant concern. Globally, around 10–20% of men present with advanced-stage prostate cancer at diagnosis. In Malaysia, this percentage is notably higher, with many men first seeking care when the disease has already spread. Advanced prostate cancer frequently metastasises (spreads) to the bones. Some men with advanced disease may have no symptoms until the cancer burden becomes substantial, often presenting as bone pain in the lower back or hips. For many, the first signs prompting evaluation are urinary difficulties, including frequency (urinating more often than usual), urgency (the feeling you need to urinate) or a weak stream, although it's important to note that not all urinary symptoms are caused by cancer. This raises an important question: why are more men not being diagnosed earlier? The fact that a high-profile figure such as a former US president may not have undergone regular screening is both surprising and concerning. Thoughts about screening If you're a man – or someone who cares about one – this is a good moment to stop and think. Have you ever talked to a doctor about prostate cancer screening? If you're in your 50s or older, or in your 40s with a family history of prostate cancer, this is the recommended time to consider it. And if you're a partner, friend, daughter or colleague, asking something as simple as "Have you ever had a PSA test?" or "Do you think it's time to check on this?" could make all the difference. The primary tool for early detection is the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. This is sometimes combined with a digital rectal examination (DRE), particularly for men at higher risk. This examination allows doctors to feel for any hard or unusual areas in the prostate that might suggest cancer. However, PSA screening has long been a subject of debate. In 2012, the US Preventive Services Task Force advised against routine PSA screening due to concerns that it led to the detection and treatment of many low-grade prostate cancers that might never have caused any health problems during a man's lifetime or affected how long he lived. ALSO READ: Diagnosing prostate cancer too early might cause more harm than good This recommendation resulted in a decline in PSA testing and sparked debate over whether fewer screenings might contribute to later-stage diagnoses. In 2018, the Task Force revised its stance, recommending that men aged 55 to 69 engage in shared decision-making with their healthcare provider to weigh the benefits and risks of screening. Routine screening remains not recommended for men over 70, given the lower likelihood of benefit in this age group. While this cautious approach aims to avoid unnecessary treatment, it underscores the need for better risk stratification tools to catch aggressive cancers like the one diagnosed in Biden, while minimising intervention for slow-growing ones. How often then should men be screened? For those who choose PSA testing, screening is typically recommended every one to two years, depending on baseline PSA levels and personal risk, consistent with guidance from the American Urological Association and National Comprehensive Cancer Network. Understanding the risks To understand screening implications, we must look at the Gleason grading system, which scores prostate cancer from 6 to 10 based on microscopic appearance: Gleason 6 (Grade Group 1) This cancer is low-grade, slow-growing and often managed with active surveillance, i.e. a "watch-and-wait" approach that avoids immediate treatment and monitors the cancer closely through regular checkups and tests. (Grade Group 1) Gleason 7 (Grade Groups 2 and 3) This cancer carriers intermediate risk. Ttreatment may involve surgery or radiation. (Grade Groups 2 and 3) Gleason 8–10 (Grade Groups 4 and 5) There are high-grade, fast-growing cancers that need quick and often combined treatments like surgery, radiation or hormone therapy, to keep them under control. In localised high-grade prostate cancer, treatments that aim to cure (radical prostatectomy or radiation therapy with hormonal therapy) are employed. But once the cancer is advanced or metastatic, the treatment shifts focus to disease control with the therapies listed below, to ensure that patients tolerate therapy well and maintain a good quality of life. Treatment in advanced disease Thanks to advances in treatment, many men with stage 4 prostate cancer can live for years with well-controlled disease, and may ultimately pass away from other age-related health conditions. The main treatment for advanced prostate cancer is hormone therapy, also known as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). This approach lowers testosterone, the hormone that fuels prostate cancer growth. Most men are able to tolerate therapy well with the main side effects reported being hot flashes, tiredness, weight gain, mood changes and a drop in sex drive, which are all symptoms related to the lowering of testosterone. In men, whose cancer has spread widely or to organs like the liver or lungs, doctors often add chemotherapy (such as docetaxel) to the hormone therapy. This combination has been shown to help men live longer. We now live in the era of precision oncology, where genetic testing is helping doctors tailor cancer treatment to the individual. In prostate cancer, checking the tumour's DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) can reveal changes in genes like BRCA1, BRCA2 or ATM. These are found in about 10-15% of men with advanced prostate cancer, based on global data. These changes can make the cancer more responsive to a group of drugs called PARP inhibitors, including olaparib and rucaparib, which help slow disease progression in men with certain types of resistant prostate cancer. While international estimates guide current practice, data on how common these gene mutations are in Malaysian men is still limited, pointing to the need for wider access to testing and research in this region. The treatment options for advanced prostate cancer that no longer responds to hormone therapy are improving quickly. New pills that block the effects of testosterone – like enzalutamide, apalutamide and darolutamide – can help men live longer. Another newer option is radioligand therapy, which delivers targeted radiation to cancer cells using a special radioactive drug called Lu-177-PSMA-617. These treatments are now being used more often for men whose cancer has spread or no longer responds to standard therapies. Biden's diagnosis of Gleason 9 disease suggests a highly aggressive form, and the "advanced" designation implies either locally advanced or metastatic spread. His case underscores the importance of early detection, nuanced understanding of risk, and individualised treatment planning. In conclusion, prostate cancer remains a major health issue with varying presentations and outcomes. The diagnosis of a global figure may offer a moment to re-examine current screening practices, particularly for high-risk populations, and reinforce the need for personalised care based on tumour biology, grade, stage, and now, molecular profile (when available). Most importantly, it's a reminder: have the conversation. Early detection could save your life, or that of someone you love. Professor Dr Deva Mahalingam is a Malaysian medical oncologist and clinical researcher at Northwestern University in the United States. For more information, email starhealth@ The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and should not be considered as medical advice. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this article. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.
