Lifestyle

Los Angeles, June 4 (IANS) Hollywood star Michael Keaton thought his vision of Batman was unlikely to happen. The 71-year-old actor took on the title role of the superhero in the 1989 film directed by Tim Burton and returned to star in its 1992 sequel 'Batman Returns'.

He explained that he believed his own views on the character would not make the final cut because he could not imagine anyone wanting to see him portrayed in that way, reports 'Female First UK'.

He told 'Empire' magazine: "I remember exactly where we were. He said, 'I wanna talk to you about something. I just want you to read this, because I think I'm gonna make this movie' What's interesting if you think about this is that up until then, his and my relationship was only 'Beetlejuice'. So there was something, I don't know that I've ever asked him this, actually, but something gave him the idea and so he said, ago home and read it."

He further mentioned, quoted by 'Female First UK', "I said, 'Well, no one's going to do what I think, this is probably not going to happen, because I can't imagine anyone would want to make the movie that I see' and all I said, 'listen to me Tim'. And I started to go down the list of the guy, Bruce Wayne with him, my take on him and he didn't say anything but his hair was long at the time and I could see it moving as he nodded, 'yes, yes, Exactly'. He's a rare breed, a true artist and a true original."

"He was already seeing it and it was basically the Frank Miller stuff. And I wasn't aware of all that stuff, I just knew what it was, but I knew I had to read the Miller stuff. And I thought, 'oh, this could be interesting," he added.

--IANS
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New York, June 4 (IANS) Adding a novel drug to hormone therapy can help block the return of the most common form of breast cancer by 25 per cent, according to a study.

Researchers found that patients with early hormone-receptor (HR) positive/HER2 negative breast cancer who took the combination therapy -- ribociclib, a targeted therapy drug, and hormone therapy -- had substantially longer invasive disease-free survival compared to those who were treated with the hormone therapy alone.

This was regardless of whether the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, said the team from University of California, Los Angeles.

The addition of the targeted therapy reduced the risk of recurrence by 25 per cent, they noted while presenting the study at the American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting.

"The findings show this combination is a treatment of choice for patients with stage 2 or stage 3 HR positive/HER2 negative breast cancer," said Dr Dennis Slamon, chair of haematology-oncology and director of clinical and translational research at the UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center.

HR positive/HER2 negative breast cancer is the most common subtype of the disease.

The clinical trial involved 5,101 patients with stage 2 or stage 3 early HR positive/HER2 negative breast cancer.

Patients were randomised into two arms: 2,549 were randomised to the combination treatment and 2,552 to the hormone therapy alone. Invasive disease-free survival was the primary endpoint of the study.

The median duration of study follow-up was 34 months, with three-year and two-year duration of ribociclib completed by 20 per cent and 57 per cent patients respectively.

Invasive disease-free survival was evaluated after 426 events.

At the time of this analysis, 189 people in the ribociclib group (7.4 per cent of patients) experienced an invasive disease-free survival event, compared to 237 people in the hormone therapy alone group (9.3 per cent of patients).

The data showed a statistically significant improvement in the risk of invasive disease in favour of the combination arm.

The invasive disease-free survival rates at three years were 90.4 per cent, compared to 87.1 per cent for women who were treated with only hormone therapy.

Ribociclib at 400 mg had a favourable safety profile with no new signals.

"Overall, the combination therapy showed more favourable outcomes, significantly reducing the risk of the cancer returning," Slamon said. "These results should change how we evaluate and treat patients."

--IANS
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By IANSlife
New Delhi, June 2 (IANSlife) For the first time, designers Maison Shantnu & Nikhil present "Shantnu Nikhil Cricket Club," a new concept under the "S & N by Shantnu Nikhil" brand, that embraces the spirit of cricket in a unique amalgamation of sport with the designers' signature fashion forms, featuring Harmanpreet Kaur.


"Shantnu Nikhil Cricket Club stemmed from a long-awaited dream, inspired by our love for cricket and a vision to connect the sport to lifestyle promise. It's truly exhilarating to see the club branch out into its second edition- with a new twist. To celebrate the new edition, we are ecstatic to have Harmanpreet Kaur representing the campaign, in her true sportsperson spirit. We feel so proud that SNCC is growing phenomenally as a lifestyle conversation, as well as harmonising fashion and cricket like never before!" say designers Shantnu & Nikhil

This luxe, youthful label carries forward the bridge to the luxury design philosophy while offering regal looks to those who want to take their connection with the sport as well as their fashion game, a notch higher! In keeping with the ethos of brands from Maison Shantnu Nikhil, SNCC introduces the batsman logo with a fresh perspective to the signature brand crest, which symbolizes the spirit of achievement that portrays a will to strive forward and a sense of unity: a culture that the club stands for. The campaign is shot at the iconic Maidens Hotel by The Oberoi Group. The nostalgia of space met by the regalia of sport, intertwine itself into the grand imagery- as presented in SNCC.

To represent the latest drop from "Shantnu Nikhil Cricket Club", the Maison has Harmanpreet Kaur- the captain of the Indian women's cricket team. She represents the grit, sheer passion, and humility a great sportsperson exhibits. With SNCC, the brand applauds the pathbreaking cricketer and unveils her glamorous side like never seen before.

"I have always expressed myself through cricket and have only strived for excellence. I am very glad to see acclaimed designers Shantnu & Nikhil understand the significance of cricket in our country and amalgamate their aesthetics with the sport. It's a proud feeling to feature in the second edition of Shantnu Nikhil Cricket Club, which feels like my own style come alive." says Harmanpreet Kaur.

The contemporary lineup of the range is dedicated to preserving the game's nostalgic and yet stylistic hallmarks on a canvas of season-friendly fabrics like flat knit and premium silks. The second drop of SNCC includes lineup of gingham prints which can be seen across categories, whilst the colour Orange- brings a whole new outburst of energy to the collection.

From essential sartorial pieces like the genteel retro-doused varsity jackets, suave power suits, and classic and yet elevated cropped polos to classic pick-me-up accessories -- neckerchiefs, bucket hats, belts; SNCC infiltrates the modern-day wardrobe with a vision of easygoing everyday dressing injected with a jolt of much needed youthful swagger!

(IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

--IANS
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By Rohit Ramana
New Delhi, June 2 (IANSlife) A decade ago, conversations around mental health support at the workplace were simply swept under the corporate carpet. The stigma around depression, anxiety, and stress was so prevalent that these issues were not even acknowledged. But today, 81 per cent of workplaces have increased their focus on employee mental health.


As we peel back the layers of corporate norms, it becomes evident that mental health support stands as an irreplaceable pillar in creating an environment where every employee can thrive. Just as the human mind holds endless potential, embracing mental health support is the key to unlocking the untapped potential within each individual.

We are all a combination of our experiences, the expectations we have of ourselves, and those that people have of us, and sometimes it is natural to be overwhelmed. How each one of us reacts to these stimuli is different, and that is what makes us unique. Investing in employee well-being is the first and most important step in fostering such individuality and building a great organisation.

The World Health Organization estimates that depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy approximately $1 trillion per year in lost productivity. Investing in mental health support not only benefits individual employees but also yields significant economic returns, creating a win-win scenario for both employees and organisations.

Breaking the Stigma and Fostering Acceptance

Only 13 per cent of employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health in the workplace. According to a study by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 9 out of 10 employees who experienced mental health challenges reported facing stigma in their workplace. This stigma often leads to employees hiding their mental health conditions and delaying seeking help, impacting their well-being and productivity. Picture a workplace where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported. A place where every employee is working towards growing the business, unhindered by the stigma associated with mental health challenges. Leading new-age businesses, our actions and values set the tone for the entire organization. Hence, the onus is on the leadership to actively break down the stigma surrounding mental health. This will further inspire a ripple effect, empowering others within an organization to do the same. We need to create an environment where employees can thrive, leading to enhanced productivity and optimal performance. This encourages diverse viewpoints, creativity, and collaboration, leading to breakthrough ideas and solutions. When employees feel safe to express themselves authentically, they can contribute their unique talents and experiences to the collective success of the organization.

Enabling equal access to resources

Indian workplaces have come a long way when it comes to de-stigmatizing conversations around mental health challenges. In the face of "the 2020 pandemic", mental well-being took centre stage, and workplaces started embracing mental health support policies. The industry has taken a step forward in not just acknowledging but also providing resources that are accessible, equitable, and culturally sensitive. As an ecosystem, we need to position ourselves as an ally in the mental health journey of our employees and remove barriers to access such as cost, stigma, and logistical challenges. Around 80 per cent of Indian companies have gone the EAP (Employee Assistance Program) way to offer access to trained professionals. They help employees address personal and work-related challenges, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. New-age companies are revisiting, rehauling, and restructuring their policies to incorporate mental health support as an integral part. This includes providing flexible working hours, paid mental health leave, and additional health insurance coverage for mental health treatments. Such policies ensure that employees have the necessary resources and support to prioritize their mental well-being.

Acing the talent attraction and retention game

The younger workforce of today is drawn in by an organisation's progressive and inclusive cultural code. They seek more than just a paycheck; they yearn for a workplace that values their holistic needs and provides a supportive environment. Today's generation appreciates diversity and seeks to be a part of a company that embraces different backgrounds, opinions, and experiences. Prioritizing diversity and inclusion in hiring, leadership, and decision-making processes increases the appeal of companies to the younger workforce. It is important to remember that collaboration and innovation are fostered by an inclusive culture.

According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), for every dollar invested in mental health treatment, there is an average return of $4 in improved health and productivity. This highlights the significance of providing accessible mental health resources to employees, as it not only benefits individuals but also contributes to overall organisational success. Our mental health support policies act as a value addition, drawing in the best and brightest minds who are eager to contribute their skills and expertise. Once they join our organization, these policies become the glue that keeps them engaged, committed, and loyal. By offering resources such as counselling services, flexible work arrangements, and mental health leave, we create an inclusive culture that meets their needs beyond the industry's tick boxes. I believe that investing in mental health support and promoting a culture that does not discard young minds not only attracts young talent but also cultivates a team of empowered individuals who are motivated to grow and thrive.

Creating workplaces "Where the mind is without Fear"

A recent report by Indeed titled- "Where the mind is without fear", states that a psychologically safe environment is a key component of diversity, inclusion, and belonging (DI&B) efforts. While devising policies for an all-inclusive workplace environment, we need to remember that mental health is not one-size-fits-all. Right now, we are all operating in a piecemeal manner, providing Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), counselling sessions, and interventions aimed at alleviating stress and improving motivation and productivity. But due to the unconscious biases at play, we are collectively running behind to reach the desired outcome. The need of the hour is to devise a compelling policy and cultural framework for mental health support and to make it the core of every organizational structure. Employees who receive mental health support and engage in self-care activities are better equipped to manage stress, make effective decisions, and maintain focus on their work responsibilities.

Over the past decade, workplaces have made significant strides in addressing mental health challenges. The once prevalent stigma surrounding mental health is slowly being dismantled, creating an environment where every employee can thrive. Organisations now understand the economic and personal benefits of investing in mental health support. By taking proactive steps to provide mental health support, we can unlock the untapped potential within each individual. The focus should be on creating a future where mental health support is integrated into the fabric of every organization, allowing employees to flourish and contribute their best.

(Rohit Ramana, Chief Financial and People Officer, Mintoak. IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

--IANS
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By Olivia Sarkar
New Delhi, June 2 (IANSlife) These healthy soups are ideal for a summer lunch. Simply prepare a large pot and offer your guests this delectable dish.


SMOKY SALMOREJO

Ingredients:

Tomatoes
White bread with crusts removed
Grated garlic
Vinegar
Olive oil
Salt
Thin sliced green grapes
Chopped roasted almonds

Method:

Cut sides of the tomato halves and discard the skins.
Add bread and toss with tomatoes.
Blend the mixture after 15 minutes in food processor.
Add grated garlic and vinegar in the mixture and gradually add ¼ cup smoked olive oil with the machine on.
Strain the mixture and season it with salt, cover and refrigerate until very cold and your Salmorejo is ready.
Serve the soup in bowls and garnish with grapes, almonds and a drizzle of smoked olive oil.

WATERMELON SOUP

Ingredients:

Watermelon chunks (de-seeded)
Mint leaves
Ginger and garlic paste
Chilli flakes

Method:

Blend 1 cup de-seeded watermelon chunks, 3-5 mint leaves, 1 tsp ginger and garlic paste, salt and pepper to taste, 1 tsp chilli flakes.
Refrigerate and serve cold, with a topping of mint leaves.

CHICKPEA SESAME SOUP

Ingredients:

Boiled chickpea
Garlic clove
Sesame seeds
Cumin seeds
Lime juice
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper

Method:

Blend 1 cup soaked and boiled chickpea, 1 garlic clove, 2 tbsp sesame seeds, 1 tsp roasted cumin seeds, 2 tsp lime juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, salt and pepper to taste.
Blend all ingredients well to make a smooth paste.
Add cold water to adjust the consistency and serve fresh.

BEETROOT SOUP

Ingredients:
Boiled beetroot
Yogurt
Cumin seeds
Coriander leaves
Salt
Pepper
Mint leaves

Method:

Blend 1 cup boiled beetroot, 1/2 cup yogurt, 1 tsp roasted cumin seeds, 1 tbsp coriander leaves, salt and pepper to taste and a few mint leaves.
Adjust the consistency with cold water and serve fresh.

AVOCADO SPINACH SOUP

Ingredients:

Spinach leaves
Avocado
Garlic
Basil leaves
Yogurt
Lemon juice
Paprika powder
Salt
Pepper

Method:

Blend parboiled 1 cup spinach leaves, 1 ripe avocado, 1 garlic, 2 tsp basil leaves, 1 cup yogurt, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp paprika powder, salt and pepper to taste.
Blend all ingredients and adjust the consistency with cold water.
Serve fresh.

(IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

--IANS
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By IANSlife
New Delhi, June 2 (IANSlife) A holistic guide to multiple aspects of the physical, mental, and emotional health of women, Womens Health, Wisdom, and Wine! is where Dr. Laurena White shares her expertise and advice to achieve optimal health on Audible. Whether it be essential vitamins, prenatal care, acne, dealing with menopause, or identifying causes of PCOS -- here are 5 tips from this podcast that will help you embark on your health journey.


Prioritize Vitamin D for Optimal Health

Vitamin D is one of the most essential nutrients in our body. When our body gets the right amount of it, we are able to function optimally and a deficit of this nutrient can cause our system to collapse. "Vitamin D makes an enzyme that makes a chemical called Acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is really important in our autonomic nervous system. When you take D it helps your body absorb the calcium in the food and also the magnesium. Another important factor is it keeps the kidneys from spilling calcium into the urine. Kidney stones are one of the results of having a low D.

Eat Your Greens For Optimum Prenatal Nutrition

Pre-natal stages of motherhood are unequivocally the most integral to determining healthy childbirth. Nutrition is essential during this period, mothers to be who eat right and maintain a good lifestyle ensure their babies are healthy too. Here is some expert guidance from Dr.Laurena White on sources of food, pregnant or expecting women must consume. "In terms of supplements, your doctor should be able to recommend good prenatal vitamin and mineral supplements containing extra iron and calcium. Folate, not folic acid is a Vitamin B and is now known to boost fertility and prevent neuro tube defects such as spina bifida which is a serious abnormality in earlier fetal development. A major source of folate is cooked greens and another that we recommend is orange juice. If you are contemplating pregnancy and thinking there is any other possibility that you could get pregnant, for ensurance, take a daily B complex vitamin that supplements and provides at least 400 micrograms of folate."

Embrace Natural Care and Lifestyle Changes to Navigate Menopause

Menopause is one of the most common conditions all women naturally go through. As women reach their menopausal period they tend to rely on over-the-counter medication for symptomatic relief. A lot of this is not required or may have side effects, A quote from centuries before the advent of the pharmaceutical industry states, "Anything that can be treated naturally with dietary means should be". Natural remedies, lifestyle changes, and exercise help relieve menopausal effects to a large extent.

"We found in a survey of 1,100 women not that long ago, that 37 per cent of women were given anti-depressants for menopause, 84 per cent said they did not feel it was appropriate because they did not have clinical depression, and 41 per cent were given hormone replacement therapy, 14 per cent did not take it cause they were too scared and of the ones who did, 62 per cent came off in the first year cause of adverse side effects. They were not then given anything else because although everything we do is based on published medical research, most of the doctors don't know about it."

Mitigate Acne With a Dietary and Lifestyle Changes

Acne scars and breakouts are women's worst nightmares. The rich diet and skincare routine may help mitigate acne but never completely avoid it. The immune system is what responds to the overgrowth of bacteria on our skin such as C-Acne, which is what results in inflammation. As suggested on this podcast, laboratory testing, dietician expertise, and adequate lifestyle changes do away with acne well. Harsh medication which is popularly advertised in the market must be avoided. "Acne is a complicated condition, it is caused by a number of factors and influenced by factors such as diet, stress, hormones, genetics, etc. It is really driven by the overgrowth of one bacteria on our skin. This bacterium is called cutibacterium acnes or C-acne and is present on everyone's skin. C-acne's supposed to be on your skin but when it is part of a balanced microbiome, you are healthy and you don't have any inflammation or acne. It's only when it overgrows beyond a certain point, that you generate that inflammation, and your body responds with that inflammation that you basically see on your face."

Manage PCOS with Lifestyle Modifications

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a condition where you have few, unusual, or very long periods. It often results in having too much of a male hormone called androgen often resulting in the ovaries not releasing eggs. However, testosterone is not the only hormone imbalance that causes PCOS, our bodies produce other androgens that add up to the condition PCOS. "Hormone imbalances are one of the major PCOS root causes for most women with the condition. While testosterone was made mostly in the ovaries, DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) is another androgen that comes mostly from the adrenals. However, genetic factors also seem to be the reason why 20-30% of women who have PCOS also have DHEA. This causes the symptoms associated with PCOS which are weight gain, hair loss, body and facial hair, and fertility." As prescribed by the doctor over-the-counter medications can be consumed, a good diet, and exercise are the most common and effective ways to ease the effects of PCOS.

Women need to engage more in informative conversations about health backed by medical evidence and effective solutions. Tune into Women's Health, Wisdom, and WINE! on Audible to empower yourself and other women to lead a healthier and happier life.

(IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

--IANS
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Lucknow, June 2 (IANS) A 21-year-old woman has saved her father by donating her liver for him.

Nisha Gupta also sacrificed one year of her career for this-she was pursuing B.A. (Hons) political science.

Sanjay Gupta, 51, a vegetable seller in Ghaziabad district, underwent a liver transplant at King George's Medical University (KGMU) on May 15.

While the donor was discharged earlier, the recipient was discharged on Thursday.

As per KGMU officials, the family had to spend only Rs 6.5 lakhs out of Rs 12 lakhs. The rest of the money was arranged by university faculty members with the help of social help groups.

Talking to reporters, Sanjay expressed his gratitude towards his daughter and said: "My daughter became a goddess for me, like Durga. May God bless every parent with a daughter like her.

"Some people still say that daughters are a burden, but they fail to understand that daughters are power."

Sanjay's son Avinash Gupta said: "We were depressed when my liver failed, along with that of my mother and my uncle, but thankfully my sister's organ matched."

Subsequently, counsellors at the organ donation unit of KGMU, Piyush Srivastava and Kshitiz Verma, briefed Nisha about the surgery and she gave her consent, he said.

A team of doctors led by KGMU vice chancellor Lt Gen (Retd) Prof Bipin Puri and headed by Prof Abhijeet Chandra of the surgical gastroenterology department, performed the procedure.

"We are really thankful to the doctors who not only performed surgery but also helped us arrange money and care for us," Avinash added.

--IANS
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By Vishal Gulati
Shimla, May 23 (IANS) In a first-of-its-kind, the renovated 143-year-old Bantony Castle, once the summer palace of the erstwhile ruler of Sirmaur province, on Tuesday saw the first light and sound show, a captivating event that combines the rich history of the grand castle and Shimla city with a mesmerising audiovisual experience.


It is likely to be released for ticketed viewing of the visitors from June 1 when the sun goes down, Secretary, Language, Art and Culture Rakesh Kanwar told IANS.

Bollywood actor Anupam Kher, who has a deep emotional bond with the 'Queen of Hills', where he spent his formative years, narrates the light and sound show that will be showcased to the public in English and Hindi with a seating arrangement of 70 for a one-time watch.

The two-storey Bantony Castle, located near Scandal Point on the famous Ridge, is reconstructed in the mock Tudor style, part chalet and crowned with a sloping roof with mini towers.

The building is said to have been designed by TEG Cooper under the watchful eye of Raja Surender Bikram Prakash and before its construction began in 1880 the site had a cottage belonging to Captain A. Gordon which housed army officers.

During the two World Wars, the rulers of Sirmaur allowed the colonial government to use the premises for military purposes.

During the Second World War, it lays the Prisoner of War section attached to All India Radio for handling messages of mostly Italian prisoners interred at Yol near Dharamsala town, some 250 km from here.

Just after Independence, leading English daily The Tribune, which had been based in Lahore, began functioning at Bantony Castle till it shifted to Chandigarh.

Just before the Independence, Bantony passed into the hands of the Maharaja of Darbhanga. In 1957-58, Maharaja Sir Kameshwar Singh of Darbhanga gave the property on rent to the Punjab government, and various wings of initially Punjab and later Himachal Police were based in it for several years.

The Police Officers' mess was also located on its premises.

While still with the police in 1968, the Bantony estate was purchased by the prominent local business family of Ram Krishan and Sons. The state acquired this 19,000 sq m estate and structures in 2017 to create the elaborate complex that Bantony now houses.

The Bantony Castle has now been restored at a cost of about approximately Rs 29 crore and houses a heritage museum, a multipurpose hall and an art and craft centre, all to be opened soon for the public.

In the main building of the castle, a digital museum will be opening shortly which is expected to be innovative, people-oriented and immersive.

The mesmerising 30-minute light and sound show (in separate Hindi and English versions) will captivate the senses from start to finish and describe the journey of various facets of this historical town.

This show is a dramatic retelling of Shimla's story from its foundation to the modern day.

The light and sound show will be the first production to use digital art technology to depict the magnificent history of Shimla through the eye of Bantony Castle right from its foundation at a historical site.

This show, a first for the hilly town, will serve as a major attraction for locals and tourists alike in days to come, adds the government.

Tourism Department officials told IANS, Bantony along with the newly restored British-era Town Hall and Gaiety Theatre, which all lie on the historic Ridge -- an open space just above the Mall -- extending to Grand Hotel in the west and the Lakkar Bazaar in the east, will be a favourite haunt of those out for a stroll to see the Shimla's legacy.

Shimla was the summer capital of the British rulers between 1864 and 1939.

Shimla's history goes beyond British India.

Mahatma Gandhi visited Shimla several times in the days leading to the country's Independence in 1947. On some occasions, leaders like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Jawaharlal Nehru, Madan Mohan Malaviya and Lala Lajpat Rai accompanied him.

(Vishal Gulati can be contacted at gulatiians@gmail.com)

--IANS
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London, May 19 (IANS) People with genetic tendency toward higher levels of hypertension and cholesterol could be at a potential risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, according to a new study.

The study, published in the journal JAMA Network Open, included 39,106 people with clinically diagnosed Alzheimer's and 401,577 controls who did not have the disease.

The team from Copenhagen University in Denmark found that people who had certain genes that led to higher levels of a type of cholesterol called high-density lipoprotein, also known as HDL or "good" cholesterol, had a slightly higher chance of developing Alzheimer's.

For every standard deviation increase in HDL cholesterol, the researchers found about 10 per cent increase in the risk of Alzheimer's.

A similar increased risk was found for people with the genes responsible for higher systolic blood pressure. For every 10 millimetres of mercury (mm Hg) increase in systolic blood pressure, the risk of developing Alzheimer's increased 1.22 times.

"This genetic association study found novel genetic associations between high HDL cholesterol concentrations and high systolic blood pressure with higher risk of Alzheimer's disease. These findings may inspire new drug targeting and improved prevention implementation," Ruth Frikke-Schmidt, from the varsity's Department of Clinical Biochemistry.

The study, however, did not find any consistent evidence for genetic associations with other lipid traits, nor did it find evidence that BMI, alcohol consumption, smoking or diabetes increased the odds of developing Alzheimer's.

As the participants were majorly of European descent, the study cannot be generalised. The study also did not show that genes predetermine people to Alzheimer's, said the team, stressing the need for further research.

--IANS
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New Delhi, May 19 (IANS) Obesity has a huge impact on physical health, psycho-social and mental health, and can increase the risk of depression, especially among children and adolescents, said doctors on Friday.

Obesity is one of the fastest growing chronic health conditions, rising quite rapidly in children and adolescents.

The World Obesity Federation in a 2023 report predicted that in the next 12 years, more than 51 per cent of the world's population will be overweight or obese.

"Being obese can lead children to experience subtle forms of teasing and discrimination, they might develop the tendency to stay isolated and turn to food as a comfort," Dr. Arun Bhardwaj, Consultant - Minimal access and Bariatric surgery, HCMCT Manipal Hospitals, Dwarka, told IANS.

"When compared with normal-weight children, those with obesity have a 32 per cent greater chance of developing depression. This number is even higher for young girls and they have a 44 per cent higher chance of developing depression when compared with normal-weight girls," added Dr. Aparna Govil Bhasker, Consultant Bariatric and Laparoscopic Surgeon at Saifee Hospital, Mumbai.

Childhood obesity has now become an epidemic in India.

According to a national study, about 14.4 million obese children are in India, and it has the second-highest number of obese children in the world, next to China.

"Obesity and depression are closely related and can have a major impact on a child's life. Lack of playtime with friends and inability to participate in games like peers can cause depression in children. This becomes a vicious cycle where the child starts binge eating as comfort food which in turn leads to more complications," Dr. Bhardwaj told IANS.

In addition, obese children are also more likely to suffer from low self-esteem, and weight bias both in school and family settings.

"Parents' lack of knowledge and awareness about obesity leads to an inability to guide their children and may sometimes lead to increased mental anxiety in both. Children with obesity tend to suffer from neglect and are poorly treated. Together, this can lead to increased stress which further aggravates emotional eating behaviour, poor sleep, and fatigue, in turn leading to more weight gain," Dr. Bhasker added.

Further, childhood obesity also has other health implications.

Obese children are at increased risk of hypertension, osteoarthritis, high cholesterol and triglycerides, Type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, gallbladder disease, respiratory problems, emotional disturbances, and some cancers.

Two in three obese children will also remain obese as adults and at risk for adult lifestyle diseases.

In girls, childhood obesity can lead to "irregular menstruation, endometrial polyps, stress urinary incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse in later life", said Dr Surabhi Siddhartha, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Mumbai.

"Obesity can cause insulin resistance later which is commonly seen in those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Having PCOS will further increase weight, making them feel embarrassed and lonely," she added.

Both parents and teachers have an important role to play when it comes to supporting children and adolescents with obesity.

Parents must be conscious about inculcating good eating habits in their children. They must limit exposure to junk food and sugary drinks and encourage kids to have more fresh fruits and vegetables. Screen time must be limited and there must be an emphasis on pushing the children out to play in open areas, Dr. Bhasker said.

She also called upon schools to stop keeping junk food and sugary drinks in canteens.

--IANS
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