Healthcare Advancements in India: A Decade of Progress and Future Prospects
India has witnessed significant advancements in its healthcare sector over the last decade, transforming the landscape of medical services and improving the well-being of its population. A combination of technological innovations, policy reforms, increased investments, and enhanced accessibility has paved the way for a remarkable healthcare revolution. This essay explores the key developments in Indian healthcare over the past ten years and highlights the potential future advancements that lie ahead.
Healthcare Advances in India: The Last Decade
Technological Innovations
The last decade witnessed a rapid integration of technology into the Indian healthcare system. Electronic Health Records (EHRs), telemedicine, mobile health applications, and digital diagnostics have gained significant momentum.
These advancements have enhanced patient care, facilitated remote consultations, enabled efficient health data management, and increased access to healthcare services in remote areas.
Infrastructure Development
India has witnessed substantial growth in healthcare infrastructure, including the establishment of new hospitals, medical colleges, and research institutions. The expansion of healthcare facilities, especially in rural areas, has improved accessibility and reduced the burden on urban centers.
Additionally, the growth of specialized centers, such as cancer institutes and cardiac hospitals, has improved disease-specific care.
Government Initiatives
The Indian government has implemented several healthcare initiatives to promote affordable and accessible healthcare. The National Health Mission (NHM), Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), and National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) are notable examples.
These initiatives focus on providing healthcare services to the underserved population, reducing out-of-pocket expenses, and integrating digital health infrastructure.
Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Advancements
India has emerged as a global hub for pharmaceutical manufacturing and research. The last decade witnessed significant growth in the developing of generic drugs, biosimilars, and the establishment of research and development centers.
These advancements have improved the availability and affordability of essential medicines, benefiting both the domestic and international populations.
Awareness and Prevention
With a focus on preventive healthcare, there has been a notable increase in health awareness campaigns and initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles. Public health programs have addressed critical issues such as vaccination drives, maternal and child health, and non-communicable disease prevention.
The emphasis on preventive measures has helped reduce the disease burden and improve overall population health.
Future Prospects
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Analytics
The coming decade holds immense potential for the integration of AI and data analytics in healthcare. Machine learning algorithms can aid in early disease diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and predictive analytics for epidemics.
AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants can enhance patient engagement and streamline healthcare delivery.
Precision Medicine
Advancements in genomics and molecular diagnostics will pave the way for precision medicine in India. Tailoring treatments based on an individual’s genetic makeup and lifestyle factors can optimize therapeutic outcomes and reduce adverse effects.
Precision medicine holds promise in tackling complex diseases such as cancer and rare genetic disorders.
Health Insurance Reforms
Efforts to strengthen health insurance coverage and increase awareness about health insurance schemes are expected to continue. Expanding the scope of coverage, reducing exclusions, and improving reimbursement mechanisms will enhance financial protection for individuals and reduce the financial burden of healthcare expenses.
Digital Health Transformation
The ongoing digitization of healthcare services will accelerate in the coming decade. The National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) aims to create a unified digital health ecosystem, including digital health records, e-pharmacies, and telemedicine platforms.
This transformation will improve the efficiency of healthcare delivery, enhance data interoperability, and empower patients to take control of their health.
Conclusion
The last decade has witnessed remarkable advancements in India’s healthcare sector, driven by technological innovations, policy reforms, and increased investments. Improved accessibility, infrastructure development, and focus on preventive healthcare have resulted in significant progress.
Looking ahead, the integration of AI, precision medicine, and digital health transformation holds tremendous potential for further advancements in India’s healthcare system. By leveraging these opportunities, India can strive towards achieving universal healthcare, reducing health disparities, and improving the overall well-being of its population.
Soluble Guanylate Cyclase Inhibitors in Heart Failure Management
The Heart Failure Journal of India published an article titled ‘Worsening heart failure and current management strategies with a focus on soluble guanylate cyclase stimulators‘. Here is a brief summary of this article.
This paper is a review article that discusses the current management strategies for worsening heart failure (WHF), with a focus on soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) stimulators.
The authors begin by defining WHF as a critical point in the disease trajectory of heart failure (HF) patients that significantly affects prognosis negatively.
They then discuss the pathophysiology of WHF, which involves neurohormonal activation, inflammation, and oxidative stress. The authors go on to describe the current standard of care for WHF, which includes diuretics, vasodilators, and inotropic agents.
However, they note that these therapies have limitations and can be associated with adverse effects.
They then introduce sGC stimulators as a potential new class of drugs for WHF management. sGC is an enzyme that plays a key role in regulating vascular tone and cardiac function.
sGC stimulators are drugs that enhance the activity of sGC by binding to its heme moiety and increasing cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels. This leads to vasodilation, anti-inflammatory effects, and improved cardiac function. The authors review several clinical trials that have investigated the efficacy and safety of sGC stimulators in HF patients.
They note that these trials have shown promising results in terms of improving symptoms, exercise capacity, and quality of life. Additionally, sGC stimulators have been shown to have favorable hemodynamic effects and to reduce biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress.
The authors also discuss some potential limitations of sGC stimulators, such as their cost and the need for further long-term safety data. They note that ongoing clinical trials will provide more information about the efficacy and safety of these drugs. Overall, the authors conclude that sGC stimulators represent a promising new class of drugs for WHF management.
They suggest that future research should focus on identifying patient subgroups who may benefit most from these drugs and on investigating their long-term safety and cost-effectiveness. In summary, this review article provides an overview of the current management strategies for worsening heart failure and introduces sGC stimulators as a potential new class of drugs for this condition.
The authors review several clinical trials that have investigated the efficacy and safety of sGC stimulators in HF patients and conclude that these drugs represent a promising new treatment option.
You can click here to read the article.
Reference
Talha KM, Greene SJ, Chopra VK, Butler J. Worsening heart failure and current management strategies with a focus on soluble guanylate cyclase stimulators. Heart Failure journal of India 2023;1:5-11.
Heart Failure Patient Guide By Dr Vivek Baliga
Heart failure is a chronic condition characterized by the heart’s inability to pump blood effectively, leading to insufficient oxygen and nutrients reaching the body’s tissues. This condition affects millions of people worldwide and can significantly impact their quality of life. Understanding the causes, treatment options, and long-term prognosis is crucial for managing heart failure effectively.
Heart failure can be classified into two types: systolic heart failure and diastolic heart failure. Systolic heart failure occurs when the heart muscles are weakened and cannot contract with enough force to pump blood adequately. Diastolic heart failure, on the other hand, happens when the heart muscles become stiff and cannot relax properly, leading to impaired filling of the heart chambers. Both types result in decreased cardiac output and fluid buildup in the lungs and other body tissues.
Several factors can contribute to the development of heart failure. The most common causes include coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, previous heart attacks, heart valve problems, and certain conditions that weaken the heart muscles, such as cardiomyopathy and myocarditis. Other risk factors include obesity, diabetes, smoking, and a family history of heart disease.
The treatment of heart failure aims to relieve symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve the patient’s overall well-being. Medications play a crucial role in managing the condition. Diuretics are commonly prescribed to reduce fluid retention, while ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and angiotensin receptor blockers help improve heart function, lower blood pressure, and reduce the workload on the heart. Additional medications like aldosterone antagonists and digoxin may be used in specific cases.
Lifestyle modifications are also vital in managing heart failure. These include adopting a heart-healthy diet low in sodium and saturated fats, engaging in regular exercise within recommended limits, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption. Patients with severe heart failure may require medical devices like pacemakers, implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), or left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) to support heart function.
Despite advances in treatment, heart failure is a chronic condition that often requires lifelong management. The long-term prognosis can vary depending on various factors, including the underlying cause, the patient’s overall health, and the severity of the condition. Early diagnosis, adherence to treatment, and regular follow-up care are crucial in improving outcomes and prolonging survival.
While heart failure is a progressive condition, advances in medical therapies and interventions have significantly improved the prognosis for many patients. However, it is important to note that heart failure is a serious condition that can lead to complications, such as arrhythmias, kidney problems, and fluid buildup in the lungs. Close monitoring, medication adjustments, and lifestyle modifications are essential to manage symptoms, prevent exacerbations, and improve long-term outcomes.
In conclusion, heart failure is a chronic condition characterized by the heart’s inability to effectively pump blood, resulting in inadequate oxygen and nutrients reaching the body’s tissues. It can be caused by various factors, including coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, and heart muscle abnormalities. Treatment involves medication, lifestyle modifications, and, in some cases, medical devices. While heart failure requires lifelong management, early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and regular follow-up care can significantly improve the long-term prognosis and enhance the quality of life for individuals living with this condition.
To read my full guide to heart failure, click here.
From Spice Rack to Medicine Cabinet: Immune-Boosting Spices and Herbs
Spices and herbs have been used for centuries in culinary and medicinal practices. These natural ingredients are packed with potent antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties that can help support overall health and wellness. From the spice rack to the medicine cabinet, here are some immune-boosting spices and herbs that you should consider adding to your diet.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, has been shown to have immune-boosting effects by modulating the activity of immune cells. In addition to its immune-boosting properties, turmeric is also known for its ability to support brain health, improve digestion, and reduce inflammation.
Ginger
Ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. Gingerol, the active compound in ginger, has been shown to have immune-boosting properties by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and viruses. Additionally, ginger has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and relieving pain.
Garlic
Garlic is a member of the onion family and has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal properties. Garlic contains allicin, a sulfur compound that has been shown to have immune-boosting properties by stimulating the production of white blood cells. Garlic is also known for its ability to lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and fight off infections.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a popular spice that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. Cinnamon contains powerful antioxidants that can help protect the body from oxidative damage. Additionally, cinnamon has been shown to have immune-boosting effects by improving the activity of immune cells and reducing inflammation.
Echinacea
Echinacea is an herb that has been used for centuries by Native Americans for its immune-boosting properties. Echinacea contains compounds that have been shown to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off infections. Additionally, echinacea has been shown to reduce the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms.
Elderberry
Elderberry is an herb that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its immune-boosting properties. Elderberry contains compounds that have been shown to reduce inflammation and stimulate the production of cytokines, which are essential for immune function. Additionally, elderberry has been shown to be effective in reducing the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms.
Astragalus
Astragalus is an herb that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries for its immune-boosting properties. Astragalus contains compounds that have been shown to stimulate the production of white blood cells and increase the activity of immune cells. Additionally, astragalus has been shown to be effective in reducing the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms.
Oregano
Oregano is a spice that is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine and has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Oregano contains compounds that have been shown to have antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties. Additionally, oregano has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and fighting off infections.
Licorice Root
Licorice root is an herb that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its immune-boosting properties. Licorice root contains compounds that have been shown to stimulate the production of white blood cells and increase the activity of immune cells. Additionally, licorice root has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and fighting off infections.
Holy Basil
Holy basil is an herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years for its immune-boosting properties. Holy basil contains compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties. Additionally, holy basil has been shown to be effective in reducing stress, improving mood, and promoting overall well-being.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a spice that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Rosemary contains compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Additionally, rosemary has been shown to improve digestion, reduce stress, and improve cognitive function.
Thyme
Thyme is a herb that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Thyme contains compounds that have been shown to have antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties. Additionally, thyme has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and fighting off infections.
Sage
Sage is a spice that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Sage contains compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Additionally, sage has been shown to improve cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion.
Black Seed
Black seed, also known as black cumin, is a spice that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Black seed contains compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties. Additionally, black seed has been shown to be effective in reducing blood sugar levels, improving heart health, and fighting off infections.
Peppermint
Peppermint is a herb that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Peppermint contains compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Additionally, peppermint has been shown to improve digestion, reduce stress, and relieve headaches.
Closing Remarks
In conclusion, incorporating immune-boosting spices and herbs into your diet can provide numerous health benefits. These natural ingredients are packed with potent antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties that can help support overall health and wellness.
However, it is important to note that these herbs and spices should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. If you are experiencing any health concerns, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional.
Simple Ways To Strengthen Your Knee
Strengthening the knee joint and keeping it that way is crucial for a healthy lifestyle. The capacity to walk, run, and leap depends on the health of the knee joint because of the support and stability it provides for the rest of the body.
Yet, knee discomfort and pain can develop with age or after an injury.
I had spoken about some ways to increase the strength of the knee joint on my health blog HeartSense.
To avoid this, consider the following six methods for bolstering your kneecap’s stability and strength.
Maintain Your Weight
Keep your weight where it should be; extra kilos place extra stress on your knees, which can cause injury and discomfort.
By keeping your weight where it should be, you can reduce pressure on the joint and boost its durability. Maintaining a healthy weight can be accomplished by eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, complete grains, and lean protein.
Exercise Daily
Regular exercise is essential for keeping the knee joint strong. Cycling, swimming, and yoga are examples of low-impact exercises that can aid with joint flexibility and mobility.
Joint strength can also be increased by working the muscles around the knee, specifically the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves.
Hydrate Well
Maintaining healthy joints requires a commitment to adequate hydration. As a result, the likelihood of damage to the cartilage in the knee is decreased.
Eat Foods Rich In Calcium
Bone and joint health can be maintained in part by eating foods high in calcium and vitamin D.
Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified cereals are all good sources of calcium, and fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified meals are all good sources of vitamin D.
Here are some fantastic sources of calcium in your diet.
Wear The Right Footwear
To lessen the force exerted on the knee joint during exercise, use shoes with appropriate arch support. Try to find some shoes with a good amount of padding and arch support.
Take A Break
Reducing strain on the knee joint during physical activity is as simple as taking a rest every so often. Don’t overwork the joint by doing the same thing repeatedly without taking breaks to stretch and relax.
Exercises To Strengthen The Knee Joint
Let’s discuss ways to strengthen the knee joint through exercise.
Squats: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and lower your body down as if you’re sitting in a chair. Keep your knees behind your toes and your back straight. Hold the position for a few seconds and then slowly rise back up. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions.
Step-ups: Find a step or platform that’s around knee height. Step onto it with one foot and then step back down. Repeat 10-15 repetitions on one leg before switching to the other.
Lunges: Stand with your feet hip-width apart and take a large step forward with one leg. Lower your body down until both knees are bent at a 90-degree angle. Hold the position for a few seconds and then rise back up. Repeat 10-15 repetitions on one leg before switching to the other.
Leg curls: Lie face down on a mat with your legs straight out behind you. Slowly bend one leg and lift your heel towards your buttocks, keeping the other leg straight. Hold the position for a few seconds and then slowly lower your leg back down. Repeat 10-15 repetitions on one leg before switching to the other.
Closing Remarks
In conclusion, a strong knee joint is essential for an active and healthy lifestyle.
Joint health can be enhanced through a combination of a healthy diet, frequent exercise, and effective weight management.
Joint strength can also be increased by doing workouts that target the muscles close to the knee. Never begin a new workout program without first talking to your doctor.
Lemons – 7 Amazing Health Benefits
Lemons are a popular part of many diets because they are good for your health in many ways. Here are seven ways that lemons might be good for your health, with a little more information:
Boosts Immune System
Lemons are a great source of vitamin C, which helps the immune system by making white blood cells. Getting enough vitamin C can also shorten the length and severity of colds and flu.
Helps Digestion
Lemon juice can help digestion by stimulating the production of digestive juices and promoting healthy bowel movements. This can help digestion and keep you from getting constipated.
Helps In Dieting
The soluble fiber pectin in lemons can help reduce hunger and make you feel full, which makes it easier to stick to a calorie-controlled diet and lose weight.
Reducing inflammation
Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in lemon juice can help reduce inflammation in the body, which could lower the risk of developing chronic diseases.
Protects The Skin
Vitamin C and other antioxidants in lemons can help protect the skin from the harmful effects of free radicals, which can cause premature aging and damage to the skin.
Lowers Cancer Risk
Some studies suggest that the antioxidants in lemons may help lower the risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast, colon, and pancreatic cancer. But more research needs to be done to confirm these results.
Reduces Cholesterol
Flavonoids, which are found in lemons, may help lower cholesterol and lower the risk of getting heart disease. As part of a healthy diet, drinking lemon water or eating more citrus fruits may help improve heart health.
Lipoma – Frequently Asked Questions
Many of my patients have small swellings on various parts of the body. This is a fat deposit called lipoma.
Here are some of the frequently asked questions about lipomas.
What Is A Lipoma?
A lipoma is a small collection of fat tissue within an outer capsule. It is considered a fat tumor, but a benign one.
Think of it to look like an egg yolk.
How Common Is A Lipoma?
They are fairly common and are often seen in men.
Studies have found that 1 in a 1000 people will have a lipoma at some point in their lifetime.
There are small role of genetics in the development of lipomas. Around 2 – 3% of cases run in families.
Though seen in younger patients as well, most cases are evident between the ages of 40 – 60 years of age.
Where Are Lipomas Seen Commonly?
The most common site of lipoma is the chest and back. In practice, I see a lot of patients with lipoma on their arms, as shown in the picture.
There are not the only places lipomas are seen. They may be even seen in the gastrointestinal tract, heart and almost any other organ of the body.
Is Lipoma A Cancer?
Fortunately, a lipoma is a benign tumor. It is not a cancer.
Is Lipoma Hereditary?
As mentioned earlier, there are some cases where it can be passed on through generations. This is very rare though, and has to do with mutations in certain genes.
How Big Can Lipomas Grow?
Most lipomas measure between 1 – 2 cm. Giant lipomas have been seen, and can measure over 10 cm.
Symptoms And Signs Of Lipoma
As such, lipomas are a cosmetic issue and rarely cause any symptoms when they are on the skin.
If they are located within the organs, then they can cause symptoms in rare cases.
For example, if a lipoma is present in the digestive tract, it can cause obstruction. The persons may be unable to pass stools.
Patients with a lipoma in the lung tissue may have a cough or breathing difficulty.
They may also be present in the heart, muscles, bones and nerves as well.
Diagnosis Of Lipoma
A clinical diagnosis is often sufficient for lipomas on the skin. An ultrasound scan can help confirm this.
In patients where lipomas are hidden within the body, further tests such as CT scans or MRI scan can help.
How Are Lipomas Treated?
Most people accept lipomas as a part of life and do not bother with any treatment.
Some wish to get it removed surgically, especially if they are cosmetically unpleasant.
Removal should be done by an expert surgeon, taking care to remove the fat tissue and the capsule that surrounds it. It incompletely removed, it could lead to a recurrence of the tumor.
If my patients wish to get them removed, I usually send them to a plastic surgeon who can remove them with minimal scar formation after wound healing.
What Is The Prognosis Of Lipomas?
They have an excellent prognosis. They are rarely life-threatening, unless they occur in rare areas.
Skin Abscess – A Patient Guide
Often in clinical practice, I encounter patients who have developed skin infections. Sometimes the skin infection can be serious enough to require admission to the hospital.
These infections that require admission usually ends up being skin abscess.
What Is A Skin Abscess?
A skin abscess is essentially an infection of the skin where there is space accumulated under the skin. It is very similar to a pimple but is significantly larger and is seen deeper under the skin.
Where Are Skin Abscesses Usually Seen?
The most common site of skin abscess development is the groin, armpits, buttocks, and extremities.
However, I have seen patients develop abscesses on the scalp and on the back as well.
Symptoms And Signs
In mild cases, skin abscesses will just be a collection of pus with some redness of the skin surrounding it. It can be painful when pressed and can be warm to the touch.
In severe cases, the skin abscess can spread rapidly from the original area and affect a large area around it. This can become extremely painful and can lead to fever and severe fatigue.
I recently treated a patient who had a skin abscess of the inner thigh and who came to the clinic with severe giddiness and low blood pressure. This is because the infection had spread to the bloodstream and was affecting the normal working physiology of the body.
If the skin abscess spreads to nearby areas it can lead to a condition called cellulitis, which I shall discuss in a separate article.
Who Develops A Skin Abscess? Risk Factors.
Skin abscesses can develop in literally anyone. However, they tend to be more serious in patients who have a history of type 2 diabetes and those who do not maintain adequate hygiene.
What Causes A Skin Abscess?
Skin abscesses are caused by bacteria. The most common bacteria that cause infection are Staphylococcus aureus and streptococcus.
Investigations
It is easy to diagnose an abscess through clinical examination alone. They range between 1 to 3 cm in size but may become larger as I have discussed above.
Sometimes on the surface, they have a tiny yellow spot which is the pus that is trying to come out.
Patients who have a skin abscess require a blood test that will help determine the presence of infection within the bloodstream. Those who have diabetes will require a blood sugar test as well.
In some patients, an ultrasound scan or a CT scan may be required to determine the depth and true size of the abscess.
If pus starts to come out of the skin abscess, then a wound swab will be sent out to the lab for analysis.
Treatment Of Skin Abscess
The primary treatment for managing skin abscesses is incision and drainage i.e. a surgical procedure. A small abscess can dissolve with simple antibiotics and warm compression.
Larger abscesses can be difficult to treat as an outpatient and are best managed in a hospital setting.
Intravenous antibiotics will be administered to the patient and once the abscess has ‘calmed down‘ then the surgical procedure will likely be needed.
The surgical procedure is called incision and drainage. The surgeon, under anesthesia, will make a small cut on the top of the abscess to allow the pus to come out.
Once the pus comes out, the surgeon will insert their gloved index finger or a device to clean out all the bus from within the abscess cavity. Addressing will be and then applied to allow any remaining bus to get soaked into the dressing.
After discharge, patients may require ongoing antibiotic treatment along with regular dressings.
Complications
If an abscess is left untreated then it can spread rapidly and make the patient seriously ill. It is always best to seek advice early so that simple treatments can help resolve the condition completely.
Boosting Your Memory – Can Flavonoids Prevent Forgetfulness?
A healthy diet should be like a rainbow, consisting of various fruits and vegetables such as red strawberries, green spinach leaves, yellow peppers, which give you all the nutrition for day-to-day activities.
But did you ever wonder where these colors come from?
The colors of your fruits and vegetables often come from potent phytochemicals (chemicals found in plants) called as flavonoids. Now a large study from Harvard published in the journal Neurology (July issue) states that flavonoids may play a role in protecting cognition too.
The Study
Scientists evaluated collected 20 years self-reported diet data and health information for over 77,000 middle-aged men and women. The data included the frequency of participants having flavonoid-rich foods and reporting cognition related changes in their 70s, such as difficulties faced in:
- Understanding instructions
- Finding routes around familiar streets
- Following a TV show plot, or group conversation
- Remembering short lists of items (groceries list), or events that occurred recently
- Remembering things one after the other, over a span of few seconds
The study included six classes of flavonoids for calculating the participant’s cognitive ability:
- Flavones (e.g., luteolin found in green chile peppers or celery)
- Flavanones (e.g., naringenin found in grapefruits or oranges)
- Flavonols (e.g., quercetin found in onions and kale)
- Anthocyanins (e.g., cyanidin found in blackberries and red cabbage)
- Polymers (e.g., theaflavins found in black tea)
- Flavan-3-ol monomers (e.g., catechins found in red wine and strawberries)
Study Observations
Cognitive functioning is significantly affected by factors such as weight, age, physical fitness, intake of non-flavonoid nutrients, depression and alcohol intake.
The research concluded that people with the highest flavonoid intake in their diets had 19 % less chances of developing troubles like memory loss and thinking difficulty as compared to those with the lowest consumers of flavonoids.
Dr. Walter Willet, study author and professor of epidemiology at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health said that the results are exciting as they show that people with high intake of flavonoids prevented or slowed down decline in memory and other cognitive facilities in elderly.
Earlier consumption of flavonoid-rich foods showed a protective effect on the brain. Lead author Dr. Tian-Shin said that even people who began consuming flavonoids late in life noticed their benefits.
However, the study was conducted as an observational study. It relied on people remembering their diets and cognition changes, and the proof was not conclusive that flavonoids can keep older people sharp.
However, there is a link between flavonoid consumption and cognitive health benefits seen even in smaller or shorter-term studies.
Flavonoids Superfoods
Certain flavonoids have shown protective effects on the brain by lowering self-reported cognitive decline as follows:
- Anthocyanins by 24%
- Flavones by 38%
- Flavanones by 36 %
The vegetables and fruits associated with maximum improvement in cognitive functioning listed from highly effective to moderately effective are:
- Brussel Sprouts
- Strawberries
- Cauliflower
- Raw Spinach
- Sweet potatoes
- Blueberries
- Orange winter squash
- Cooked spinach
- Cooked carrots
- Peaches, plums and apricots
- Tomato juice
- Green, yellow and red bell peppers
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Tomato sauce
- Lettuce
- Tomatoes
- Celery
- Beets
Other beneficial foods were potatoes, onions, apples, pears, bananas, grape, raisins, tea, white wine, raw carrots and red wine.
What Is The Magic Content in Flavonoids?
Flavonoid activity for protecting cognitive functions are still in research. t However studies have shown that flavonoids are potent antioxidants that can prevent inflammation and accumulation of amyloid, a characteristic feature of Alzheimer’s disease.
Antioxidants also play a significant role in the following situations:
- Treat inflammation and prevent tumour growth
- Lowers blood pressure by maintaining the health of blood vessels
- Antioxidants increase the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factors, which are nothing but chemicals that help in brain repair, strengthen the connection of nerve cells and promote growth of new brain cells, and enlarges the size of the hippocampus (a part of the brain that aids memory storage and retrieval)
Flavonoid Goals To Work On
Flavonoids have shown so many potential benefits. So what is the right amount of flavonoids you should include in your diet?
In the study, flavonoid diet intake ranged from as low as 150 milligrams (mg) per day to as high as 620 mg per day. However, keeping track of flavonoid consumption can be tricky as it varies significantly between foods. For example, half a cup of peppers contains about 5 mg of flavones, and a half cup of blueberries contains 165 mg of anthocyanins.
So for starters, start having differently coloured fruits and vegetables in your regular diet. The earlier you start, the better the results will be.
Based on recent evidence, the most effective combination is including two servings of fruits and three servings of vegetables per day. You can also try to reach a goal as a five-a-day fruit/vegetable.
This goal will help you enjoy all the good fruits like blueberries, apples, strawberries, bananas, and oranges which are potentially helpful for your brain.
Dr. Deborah Blacker, study co-author and professor and deputy chair of epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health concluded that this diet can be called as ‘eating the rainbow’.
So the rainbow diet is a healthy as well as a delicious diet, for a healthier and maybe sharper you even when you are 70!
Understanding Sudden Death In Young Athletes
The death of our beloved movie superstar Puneeth Rajkumar stunned his fans. A person who was so physically fit suddenly passing away was a shock to all, and just as confusing.
How does someone who is so physically fit die so suddenly?
Surprisingly, this sudden death in young individuals is not something new. Athletes dropping dead during a game is well heard of. The world of football has seen many.
I thought I would touch upon, in brief, why young and fit individuals die suddenly, and what steps you could take to screen yourself and pick any warning signs up early.
Definitions
Young athletes could be any age, though for the purposes of this discussion, we will have 2 categories – those below 35 years, and those above.
Similarly, there are those who are competitive athletes i.e. those who participate in competitions with a goal to win, and those who are recreational athletes who exercise for fitness and fun.
Heart Attack Vs Cardiac Arrest
A heart attack is a condition where the heart artery is blocked by a blood clot. This deprives the heart of blood, leading to damage to the heart muscle. The heart is still beating and the patient is still alive.
A cardiac arrest is a condition where the heart stops beating. Basically, the patient is dead.
A heart attack can lead to a cardiac arrest.
How Common Is Sudden Death In Young Athletes?
In young athletes, statistics suggest that sudden death occurs in around 1 in 1 lakh individuals a year. In older athletes, this is around 1 in 7000.
However, these are not hard facts but rather estimates.
Causes Of Sudden Death
I have listed below some of the common causes of sudden death in athletes.
1. Alteration In The Heart Structure
Sometimes, the heart is not built the way it should be. There may be problems with how the muscle is built, or there may be a problem with how the electrical wiring is within the heart muscle tissue.
These changes in structure can lead to the heart beating in an extremely fast and erratic manner.
For example, some athletes may develop a ventricular tachyarrhythmia, or an irregular, fast beating of the bottom chamber of the heart. Ventricular fibrillation is one such life-threatening rhythm problem where the heart beats in a disorganized manner at a rate that exceeds 400 beats a minute. Ventricular tachycardia is a related condition with similar risks and outcome.
Below is the link to a video of Hank Gathers, a semiprofessional basketball player who collapsed during a game despite being in top form and just having scored a basket.
If you are a sensitive person, then I would advise you not to watch the video. It is freely available on YouTube here.
Besides beating very fast, the heart may beat at an exceedingly slow rate, or even flatline. This is called bradyarrhythmia.
Other reasons include holes in the heart that were not detected at birth.
A sudden tear of the largest blood vessel in the body, called aortic dissection, can also lead to sudden death.
2. Coronary Disease – Heart Artery Blockages
This is seen in athletes above the age of 35 years.
As we age, there may be soft plaques of fat that have been deposited in the heart arteries over years. These begin forming at a very young age, and increase in size at a varying pace over time.
During aggressive exercise, these plaques can break off if they are unstable. They then travel down the blood vessel and block it completely, leading to a heart attack.
In the medical world, we call this plaque rupture. It is a cause for sudden death in people who have pre-existing narrowing in their heart arteries.
There are many factors that contribute to the formation of these plaques. Smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, a strong family history of heart disease and high cholesterol are the common risk factors.
Coronary disease can be detected to some extent with tests such as a treadmill test. But not all narrowing in arteries can be detected this way.
I have written a detailed article on treadmill testing and what to do if it is a positive test elsewhere.
I have discussed this aspect a little later in the ‘screening’ section below.
3. Electrical Problems
The heart pumps because of electricity that flows through it. However, sometimes the electrical flow is faulty. Think of it as faulty wiring.
When the wiring if faulty, any strenuous activity can lead to erratic heart beating as the wires cannot handle the extra load. This may lead to sudden death.
Problems with electrical flow can be detected by a simple ECG.
4. Change In The Heart Muscle Thickness
The human heart is built in a very specific way. Each of the walls of the heart, the valves and other internal structures are of a particular thickness and serve a specific function.
However, if the thickness of the heart changes, then the heart may not function normally under stress. This can be a cause for sudden death.
One such condition is called Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a condition where the heart muscle is abnormally thicker than normal.
HCM is a very common cause of sudden death in athletes. It is often undiagnosed.
Similarly, if there is a hole in the heart (a birth defect), then the heart may not be able to handle the stress of exercise.
If there is a defect in the way a heart valve opens and closes, it can stress the heart even during minimal exercise.
A rare cause of sudden cardiac death is Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. This is a condition where the right side of the heart is replaced with fat tissue that poorly conducts electricity. It is often missed during clinical evaluation, though can be picked up on an ECG and a cardiac MRI scan.
5. Heart Muscle Inflammation – Myocarditis
Myocarditis means ‘inflammation of the heart muscle’, and is a potentially fatal condition. Those with suspected myocarditis are advised not to exercise for at least 3 to 6 months after the diagnosis is made.
Viral infections, including COVID, have been linked to myocarditis. I have always advised individuals with fever or an active infection to avoid exercising during the infection and even for a couple of weeks after recovering to prevent myocarditis.
There are a handful of case reports of COVID vaccine causing myocarditis as well.
When the heart muscle is inflamed, it ceases to function normally, becoming weak and enlarged. Electrical abnormalities ensue, leading to irregular heart rhythms and sudden cardiac death.
If you are ill, do not exercise. Rest is the best treatment.
You can read about diagnosis of myocarditis in more detail here.
6. Rarer Causes
There are condition such as congenital long QT syndrome, Brugada syndrome and early repolarisation syndrome that can cause sudden cardiac death. I am not discussing them here as they will definitely confuse you.
Screening
If you wish to know your risk, visit your cardiologist. That’s the first step.
A thorough history taking and physical examination itself will help risk stratify you. Your background history of high blood pressure, diabetes, family history of heart disease (or sudden death in a family member below the age of 50 years) and high cholesterol will help determine your risk.
A detailed examination to see if there are any heart murmurs or signs of your heart being weak will be conducted.
The role of investigations as a screening tool has been debated. Some suggest that tests may be futile and rarely pick up problems with the heart.
However, I personally feel differently.
A basic ECG, echocardiogram and a treadmill test, along with a blood profile to evaluate your hemoglobin, lipids and blood sugars can add some value in determining your risk.
A few years ago, I took an automated blood pressure machine to a local gym I used to visit, just to check the blood pressure of every person walking in through the doors. Over a 2 hour period, I recorded the BP of around 26 people.
Of the 26 people, I detected 2 people having a very high blood pressure. One individual aged 33 years had a BP of 220/120, and was completely oblivious to it. He was a fairly fit guy, would work out for an hour 4 times a week, and was not overweight. He even lifted weights.
I made him rest for 30 minutes and manually checked his BP again. It was the same.
I reviewed him in clinic 2 days later. It was almost the same. Conducted a home blood pressure recording test, and he averaged 190/100 on a rest day.
Not always will you know when you have a cardiac problem. Many times it is silent.
Besides the above tests, I have sometimes advised a CT coronary angiogram for patients who participate in running and intensive sporting activities.
Do The Tests Rule Out Sudden Death?
Unfortunately, no. Not all tests can predict whether you will have trouble when exercising.
It will, to some extent, determine if you are low, intermediate or high risk of sudden death.
Repeat screening once every 2 years may hold value. Those with any detected abnormalities may require annual screening.
Your doctor will guide you.
Warning Signs
If you notice any chest pain, breathing difficulty or thumping in the chest now and again when at rest or when exercising, see your doctor and get evaluated.
Never ignore what your body tells you. And for God’s sake, don’t Google all the time. Visit an expert.
Closing Remarks
Sudden cardiac death in young athletes is rare. But when it happens, it hits us hard. Taking the right steps early may help prevent this problem.
