Every 7 November, India marks National Cancer Awareness Day — chosen to coincide with the birth anniversary of Marie Curie (7 Nov 1867), whose discoveries in radioactivity underpin modern radiation oncology and diagnostic science. The day is an annual prompt for clinicians, public-health professionals and policy-makers to intensify prevention, expand…
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Green Crackers: Science Behind the Smoke and Spark
Diwali fireworks are a cherished cultural tradition across India, but they are also a predictable annual spike in air and noise pollution. “Green crackers” were developed as a lower-emission alternative: the idea is to reformulate fireworks so they release fewer toxic metals, lower particulate mass, and less noise — while…
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Menstrual Leave-What Karnataka’s Move Means for Women in India and Beyond
Menstrual leave — paid or unpaid time off during menstruation — is one of the most debated gender-sensitive workplace policies of our time. While some view it as a necessary recognition of biological realities and health needs, others worry it may reinforce stereotypes or hinder women’s professional growth. In 2025,…
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The Culture of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses in Medicine: Power, Pitfalls, and the Way Forward
Systematic reviews and meta-analyses sit at the top of the evidence hierarchy in modern medicine. They promise clarity in an increasingly crowded landscape of primary studies. For clinicians, policymakers, and researchers, they represent a single, powerful synthesis of the best available evidence. Yet, beneath their scientific rigour lies a fascinating…
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When Women Talk About Fat, Muscle, and “Goals”: Listening Beyond the Numbers
By Dr. Anita Khokhar A few mornings ago, I overheard a group of women chatting after their fitness session. One of them, visibly pleased, said, “My body fat has gone down, muscle mass has gone up… but I’m still far from my goal.” The others nodded knowingly. That single sentence…
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“Pedestrian Safety in Delhi: Road Accidents, Walking Space, and the Urgent Need for Walkability”
Delhi is a city of speed. Its expressways, flyovers, and metro lines give an impression of modern mobility. Yet, beneath this glossy surface lies a grim reality: the capital remains one of the most dangerous cities in India for pedestrians. For lakhs of people, mobility is not about four-wheelers or…
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Children as Supportive Overseers: A Practical Model for Elderly Care
The global demographic shift toward an ageing society is undeniable. By 2050, the number of people aged 60 years and above will more than double worldwide, reaching 2.1 billion [1]. In India, projections indicate that nearly 20% of the population will be above 60 years by 2050, creating a significant…
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Rabies Control in India: Why Rabies Vaccine Should Be Included in the National Immunisation Schedule
Introduction Rabies remains one of the most preventable yet neglected zoonotic diseases in India. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, rabies continues to claim an estimated 18,000–20,000 human lives annually in India, accounting for nearly 36% of the global burden [1]. The majority of cases are associated with dog bites,…
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Helpline to Lifeline: How Suicide Prevention Support Saves Lives in India and Across the Globe
Introduction Suicide is a significant global health issue, affecting individuals across all demographics. It is estimated that over 700,000 people die by suicide each year, making it one of the leading causes of death worldwide. In India, the situation is equally concerning, with a rising number of suicide cases reported…
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Health Problems of School Teachers: Global Evidence and Indian Context
Teaching is one of the most rewarding professions, but it is also among the most demanding. Teachers nurture and shape future generations, yet their own health often remains overlooked. Research from across the globe consistently shows that teachers suffer from a unique set of occupational health problems. In India, these…