Posts

WHO Guidelines for Sickle Cell Disease Management

Image
  The World Health Organization (WHO) has introduced its first global guideline for managing sickle cell disease (SCD) during pregnancy. This initiative addresses health challenge impacting both mothers and infants. SCD is characterised by crescent-shaped red blood cells that can obstruct blood flow, leading to severe health complications. The risks associated with SCD escalate during pregnancy, increasing the likelihood of maternal mortality and obstetric complications. About Sickle Cell Disease Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder. It causes red blood cells to become rigid and shaped like sickles. This abnormality can lead to blockages in blood vessels. Symptoms include severe pain, anaemia, and increased susceptibility to infections. The prevalence of SCD is particularly high in malaria-endemic regions, with sub-Saharan Africa accounting for the majority of cases. Risks During Pregnancy Pregnancy poses heightened risks for women with SCD. These women face ly incre...

Ayurvedic Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease

Image
  Recent breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s disease research offer new hope for effective treatments. A team led by Professor Anirban Bhunia at the Bose Institute has explored innovative approaches to combat neurodegenerative disorders, particularly focusing on amyloid proteins, which are central to Alzheimer’s pathology. Role of Amyloid Proteins Amyloid proteins contribute to Alzheimer’s disease. They aggregate to form plaques in the brain, leading to cell death. This process causes cognitive decline and memory loss, hallmarks of the disease. Innovative Treatment Strategies Professor Bhunia’s team employed two main strategies. First, they chemically synthesised peptides to inhibit amyloid beta aggregation. Second, they repurposed Lasunadya Ghrita (LG), an Ayurvedic remedy, to target amyloid beta aggregation effectively. Lasunadya Ghrita (LG) LG is a traditional Ayurvedic medicine known for treating mental illnesses. Its non-toxic compounds were characterised for their ability to disrupt...

Global Recognition of Skin Diseases as Public Health Priority

Image
  The 78th World Health Assembly made history by unanimously adopting the resolution titled ‘Skin diseases as a global public health priority’. This resolution marks shift in recognising skin health as a critical aspect of global public health. The decision reflects years of advocacy and the need for better funding and attention towards skin diseases, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Historical Context The resolution emerged from years of advocacy led by dermatologists and organisations like the International League of Dermatologic Societies (ILDS). Skin diseases affect approximately 1.9 billion people worldwide, yet they have been historically neglected. This resolution aims to change the narrative, denoting skin health as integral to human dignity and social equity. Voices from Low-Resource Settings Experts from regions with limited dermatologic care stress the urgency of this initiative. There is a critical need for increased funding and integration of s...
Image
  Best Paper Award-Global Diseases Research Awards The Best Paper Award honors exceptional research that demonstrates innovation, scientific excellence, and meaningful impact in advancing knowledge within its field. 🔗 Nominate now and celebrate the Best Paper Award #BestPaperAward #ResearchExcellence #InnovationInScience #ScientificBreakthrough #TopResearch #AwardWinningPaper #GlobalResearchImpact #AcademicExcellence #LeadingResearch #ScienceRecognition Event Details: Website: globaldiseases.org Nomination Link: https://globaldiseases.org/award-nomination/?ecategory=Awards&rcategory=Awardee To Contact: contact@globaldiseases.org

Advanced Proton Therapy for Cancer Treatment

Image
  Recently, a team of experts in the United States achieved a breakthrough in cancer treatment. They successfully employed step-and-shoot spot-scanning proton arc therapy, known as SPArc, to treat adenoid cystic carcinoma. This innovative method precisely targets tumours while minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissue. The findings were published in the International Journal of Particle Therapy. What is Proton Therapy? Proton therapy is a type of radiation treatment that uses protons to irradiate cancer cells. Unlike traditional X-ray radiation, protons can be controlled more precisely. This allows for higher doses to be delivered to the tumour while sparing nearby healthy tissues. The SPArc Technique SPArc is a refined approach to proton therapy. It involves a step-and-shoot method where the treatment machine follows a pre-programmed pattern. This technique allows for the delivery of radiation in a more focused manner, reducing collateral damage to critical areas. Comparison...

Ocean Darkening

Image
  Recent studies reveal alarming trends in ocean health. Research indicates that over 20% of the global ocean has darkened in the past two decades. This phenomenon poses serious threats to marine ecosystems and overall planetary health. About Ocean Darkening Ocean darkening refers to the reduction of light penetration in the photic zones. These zones are vital as they support photosynthesis, which is essential for marine life. The photic layer can extend up to 200 meters deep and is crucial for maintaining biodiversity. Research Findings The study employed satellite data and advanced modelling techniques. Researchers measured changes in light absorption using the diffuse attenuation coefficient (Kd 490). Between 2003 and 2022, 21% of the global ocean experienced darkening. Particularly, 9% saw a reduction in photic zone depth exceeding 50 meters. Mixed Global Patterns While many areas darkened, some regions became lighter. The North Sea and Arctic showed the most losses in light. C...

Global Carbon Pricing Trends 2025

Image
  Countries worldwide are increasingly adopting carbon pricing mechanisms to address greenhouse gas emissions. A recent report by the World Bank marks that carbon pricing now encompasses nearly two-thirds of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The total number of operational carbon pricing instruments has surged from five in 2005 to 80 in 2025. Key players such as India, Brazil, and Türkiye are actively developing these instruments. About Carbon Pricing Instruments Carbon pricing aims to internalise the external costs of greenhouse gas emissions. These costs include damage to crops, healthcare expenses, and property loss from climate-related events. Carbon pricing methods typically involve a price on emitted carbon dioxide (CO2). The three main types of carbon pricing instruments are:Emissions Trading Systems (ETS): Governments set a cap on GHG emissions. Companies can trade emission units to meet their targets. If they reduce emissions, they can sell excess units. Carbon Taxe...