MediWeek

Bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) refers to reversible airway obstruction in response to a stimulus. It is an early marker of airway inflammation and a precursor to chronic respiratory disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is a key risk factor associated with increased airway inflammation, allergic sensitization, and the […]

Iron deficiency (ID) is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide. While most efforts target iron deficiency anemia, ID without anemia is also common and carries important health consequences. Traditional diagnostic methods rely heavily on hematologic markers like hemoglobin or bone marrow iron, often overlooking effects of low iron levels on other organs—especially the brain. Iron

Dementia, a clinical syndrome marked by cognitive decline affecting daily functioning, poses major personal and societal burdens. This underscores the need for primary prevention strategies. Diet, being a modifiable risk factor, has emerged as a key focus of primary prevention. Excessive sugar intake contributes to obesity and diabetes, both of which are known dementia risk

Diet is undoubtedly  a key determinant of chronic disease, premature death, physical frailty, and healthy aging. In general, carbohydrates account for approximately 50% of the total energy intake in developed countries, with refined carbohydraetes accounting for 42% of the total calorie intake and only 8% of the total calorie intake is from high-quality carbohydrates such

Understanding the long-term impact of parental warmth is essential for promoting better population health. Studies have shown that higher levels of maternal warmth in early childhood are associated with reduced risk of anxiety, depression, and physical health issues, while harsh parenting increases these risks. However, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. According to Social

Ready-to-eat (RTE) cereals are a leading breakfast option for children. Although they add to the nutrient intake in children, recent studies and public concern have drawn attention to their nutritional shortcomings. Many RTE cereals targeted at children surpass the recommended amounts of added sugars, sodium, and saturated fats. While some manufacturers have attempted to improve

Reducing the global burden of type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a major public health priority. Dietary sugar intake is frequently linked to T2D risk, but inconsistencies exist based on sugar type, source, and quantity. Strong evidence shows that sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) are significantly associated with increased T2D risk, which has led to public health recommendations

Childhood obesity is a growing global health issue, with an estimated 40 million children under the age of 5 years classified as overweight or obese in 2020. The most rapid increases are occurring in Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. The South Asian individuals (originating from the Indian subcontinent) exhibit a unique risk profile

The global rise in the prevalence of dementia (repoted to affect 55 million in 2020 and expected to triple by 2050) and depression (affecting 10–20% of the older adults) highlights the urgent need for affordable, effective interventions to reduce the risk of these debilitating mental illnesses. Vitamin D, with limited dietary sources, is primarily obtained

Myopia, a standard refractive error where light focuses in front of the retina, is the leading cause of distance vision impairment. Its prevalence is rising globally, especially in East Asia (up to 62%). By 2050, 49.8% of the global population will be affected by this disease, and 9.8% will experience the severe type. The key