July 24, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper

Category: Health

“Anabolic Steroids for Muscle Gains Found Contaminated with Toxic Heavy Metals: Study”

What Are Anabolic Steroids?Anabolic–androgenic steroids (AAS) are synthetic derivatives of the male hormone testosterone. Medically, they’re prescribed—under strict supervision—for conditions like hypogonadism (when the body doesn’t produce enough sex hormones), certain types of anemia, and muscle-wasting illnesses. In these contexts, doses and preparations are carefully controlled to maximize benefit and minimize risks. However, outside medical settings, AAS are widely misused to accelerate muscle growth, enhance athletic performance, or boost confidence and well-being. They come in two main forms: Who Is Using Them—and Why?Despite legal restrictions—possession without a prescription can carry severe penalties in Australia—AAS misuse is growing, especially among young men (and increasingly women) drawn to: Studies suggest that many first-time users are late teens or early twenties, inspired by fitness influencers flaunting dramatic transformations. They often start their “first cycle” with no medical oversight, relying entirely on online vendors or local gym contacts. Risks of Unregulated ProductsOur recent analysis of 28 products from Australia’s underground market revealed alarming safety gaps: Why It MattersWhen users unknowingly inject or ingest the wrong compound—or toxic impurities—they expose themselves not just to the known side effects of steroids (hormonal imbalances, liver stress, cardiovascular strain) but also to potentially life-threatening heavy-metal poisoning. Key TakeawayAnabolic steroids carry significant risks even under medical supervision. In underground markets, where quality control is non-existent, those risks multiply—underscoring the urgent need for greater education, harm-reduction outreach, and enforcement against illicit supply chains.

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Gaza has reached an acute humanitarian crisis, with at least 33 people—mostly children—dying from malnutrition in just the past 48 hours

The situation in Gaza has reached an acute humanitarian crisis, with at least 33 people—mostly children—dying from malnutrition in just the past 48 hours, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. This brings the total number of malnutrition-related deaths since the war began in October 2023 to 101, including 80 children. Philippe Lazzarini, the head of UNRWA (the UN agency for Palestinian refugees), described the crisis as “hell on earth,” stating that even humanitarian workers are collapsing from hunger and exhaustion. UNRWA estimates that about 1,000 starving people have died trying to access aid since late May, either from gunfire or stampedes while reaching aid trucks. Israel imposed a complete blockade on Gaza on March 2 after ceasefire talks failed. While some aid trucks were permitted from late May, the flow remains critically low. UNRWA says it has enough stockpiled aid outside Gaza to feed the entire population for three months, but it has not been allowed to enter. Inside Gaza, food prices have skyrocketed by up to 40 times. Israel maintains that it is facilitating aid and blames Hamas for obstructing its distribution—an assertion disputed by several humanitarian organizations on the ground. This unfolding catastrophe underscores the severe consequences of restricted aid access in conflict zones, especially for vulnerable populations like children.

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Groundbreaking research from UC San Francisco and Gladstone Institutes represents a promising advance in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease

🧠 What Did the Scientists Do? 💊 Breakthrough Discovery 🧬 Why This Is Important 🔍 What’s Next? 🗣️ Expert Insights “We’re excited that our computational approach led us to a potential combination therapy for Alzheimer’s based on existing FDA-approved medications.”— Dr. Marina Sirota, UCSF “This makes it very challenging for drug development—which traditionally produces one drug for a single gene or protein that drives disease.”— Dr. Yadong Huang, Gladstone Institutes 🧠 The Bigger Picture This study could pave the way for repurposing existing drugs to treat complex neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s, using AI and big data to accelerate drug discovery and reduce development costs.

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Sarfaraz Khan Sheds 17 Kilos in Bid to Win Back India Test Spot

After being overlooked for the high-profile England Test series, Indian batter Sarfaraz Khan has embarked on a remarkable off-field transformation—losing 17 kg—in a determined effort to silence critics and force his way back into the national side. Despite a prolific domestic record and a promising start on India’s Australia tour (where he was in the squad but didn’t play), Sarfaraz was passed over for the five-match Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy. Selectors preferred Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair, while coach Gautam Gambhir opted for all-rounder Washington Sundar to exploit England’s seam-friendly pitches. Fitness concerns—particularly around his weight—have long dogged the 27-year-old. Though his batting prowess was never in doubt, doubts over his physique delayed his India debut and continued to shadow his selection prospects. Determined to change perceptions, Sarfaraz has radically overhauled his diet and training regimen. In an Instagram post this week, Sarfaraz unveiled his leaner frame, confirming a 17-kg weight loss. Fans and former teammates flooded the comments with praise for his dedication and discipline. His father and coach, Naushad Khan, told that the family eliminated rotis, rice, sugar, maida, and bakery items—opting instead for salads, grilled proteins, boiled eggs, avocados, sprouts, and green teas/coffees. Sarfaraz’s form on the field remains strong. While touring the UK with India A after the England snub, he compiled a gritty 92 in the first unofficial Test before making way for KL Rahul’s return. With weight no longer a barrier, Sarfaraz Khan will be pressing selectors—and critics—to notice that his credentials now extend beyond the scoreboard.

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Cardiovascular Disease on the Rise: Dr. Jeremy London Recommends 3 Crucial Lab Tests for Early Detection

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) continues to rise at an alarming rate, with a 50% surge in cardiac medication sales in India over the past five years and increasing reports of young individuals dying from heart attacks. Globally, CVD remains the leading cause of death—but early detection and intervention can dramatically reduce risk. Dr. Jeremy London, a board-certified cardiovascular surgeon in the U.S. with over 25 years of clinical experience, emphasizes the importance of proactive screening. He recommends three key lab tests to assess cardiovascular risk: 1. LDL-C (Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol) Often referred to as “bad cholesterol,” LDL-C is a standard part of most lipid panels and a well-known risk factor for heart disease. Elevated LDL-C contributes to plaque buildup in arteries, potentially leading to heart attacks and strokes. Fortunately, lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise can help lower LDL-C levels. 2. ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) ApoB provides a more precise assessment of cardiovascular risk than LDL-C alone by measuring the number of atherogenic particles in the blood. It’s a protein found on lipoproteins that promote plaque formation in blood vessels. Even if LDL-C levels appear normal, high ApoB can signal hidden risk—making it a valuable tool for early detection. 3. Lp(a) (Lipoprotein-a) Unlike LDL-C and ApoB, Lp(a) is genetically determined and not significantly affected by lifestyle. Elevated Lp(a) levels are associated with a heightened risk of heart attacks and strokes, as it contributes to both plaque formation and increased clotting. While lifestyle changes may not lower Lp(a), Dr. London recommends managing other risk factors and exploring emerging medications currently under clinical trials that specifically target this lipoprotein. “Unfortunately, lifestyle modification does not lower Lp(a). So what do you do? You control what you can control—lower your LDL-C and ApoB to reduce overall cardiovascular risk,” explains Dr. London. When Should You Get Tested? If you have a family history of heart disease or experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, or chest discomfort, it’s important to consult a physician. In addition to the three lab tests, tools like an electrocardiogram (ECG) or coronary calcium scan can offer a more detailed assessment of heart health. Prevention is Better Than Cure Actor Aasif Khan, recently in the news after surviving a heart attack, echoed a powerful message about recovery and awareness. His case, like many others, highlights the urgent need for regular screenings and lifestyle vigilance. To maintain heart health: By staying informed and proactive, you can take significant steps to reduce your cardiovascular risk and safeguard your future.

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Editor04 mins

Aasif Khan Discharged from Hospital, Confirms It Was Not a Heart Attack

Actor Aasif Khan, best known for his performance in the hit series Panchayat, has been discharged from the hospital following a health scare that sparked widespread concern among fans and media. Setting the record straight, Aasif clarified in a recent interview that he did not suffer a heart attack, contrary to circulating rumours. “First of all, I want to clarify—it was not a heart attack. It was gastroesophageal reflux disease. The symptoms felt like a heart attack, but I’m totally fit,” he said. What Happened? The health scare unfolded after Aasif drove all the way from his hometown in Rajasthan to Mumbai. Later that evening, he experienced chest pain and fainted in the bathroom, prompting an urgent hospital visit. After a series of tests, doctors diagnosed him with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)—a digestive disorder that can mimic cardiac symptoms. Lifestyle Changes Advised Following his recovery, doctors recommended significant lifestyle adjustments, especially related to diet and exercise. Aasif shared that he’s been asked to cut down on beloved regional dishes like dal baati, limit his non-vegetarian consumption, and adopt a more active routine. Despite the scare, the actor assured fans that his professional work remains unaffected. Digital Detox & Emotional Gratitude During his hospital stay, Aasif took an unintentional break from the digital world—a break he found surprisingly refreshing. “I was away from my phone and it felt good. I’ve got so many messages—it’ll take me a month to reply to everyone. I didn’t expect so much love. It was very emotional.” He also posted a heartfelt message from the hospital: “Life is short, don’t take one day for granted. Everything can change in a moment… Remember who is more important to you and always cherish them. Life is a gift and we are blessed.” Aasif’s candidness and gratitude have touched a chord with fans, and his recovery comes as a relief to many who admire his grounded persona both on and off screen.

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India Sends 300,000 Measles & Rubella Vaccine Doses to Bolivia Amid Health Emergency

India has extended vital medical support to Bolivia by dispatching a consignment of 300,000 doses of Measles and Rubella vaccines, along with essential medical supplies, to aid the country in containing a resurgence of measles cases. The move comes in response to Bolivia’s recent declaration of a National Health Emergency due to a growing outbreak that has already resulted in 60 confirmed cases. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared the development on X, stating, “India stands by its friends in the Global South,” reinforcing India’s commitment to international cooperation in public health. The decision to declare an emergency was made after Bolivia’s National Strategic Council for Health Emergencies held an urgent meeting. President Luis Arce Catacora emphasized the importance of a swift, coordinated response to protect public health. “Our duty is clear: to protect our children and the entire population from a threat that has already raised health alerts across the continent,” he said. The Bolivian government aims to boost vaccination coverage and enhance emergency preparedness by involving local governments, regional bodies, and international organizations. Special attention is being given to children under five, a group highly vulnerable to measles-related complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, or even death. Health Minister Maria Renee Castro stressed the urgency of parental cooperation, revealing that Bolivia has secured 500,000 total vaccine doses for children. She attributed the outbreak to factors including declining vaccination rates, pandemic-era healthcare disruptions, misinformation, and weak continuity in immunization programs. The aid from India comes at a time of strengthened diplomatic ties. During the recent BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with President Arce to review bilateral cooperation, focusing on areas such as healthcare, critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), UPI, and capacity building. Both leaders expressed satisfaction over progress and committed to exploring new partnerships.

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Class IX Student in Kollam Tests Positive for H1N1; Health Officials Begin School-Wide Screening

A Class IX student from a school in Kollam, Kerala, has tested positive for H1N1 influenza (swine flu), prompting health authorities to initiate a wider screening among students. According to officials, three other students from the same class are currently undergoing treatment for similar symptoms, with their test results awaited. The students began showing symptoms such as fever on July 13, after which medical tests were conducted. In response to the potential outbreak, the health department has begun proactive screening measures across the school to prevent further spread of the highly contagious virus. What Is H1N1? H1N1 is a respiratory infection caused by the influenza A virus, known for its rapid human-to-human transmission. It presents symptoms such as: Authorities have urged parents, teachers, and students to be vigilant. Anyone showing flu-like symptoms is advised to seek immediate medical attention and follow isolation protocols to minimize the risk of community transmission. Health officials are closely monitoring the situation and have assured that all necessary precautions are being taken to ensure the safety of students and staff.

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UK Doctors Announce Birth of Eight Healthy Babies from Groundbreaking Three-Person IVF Technique

In a historic medical breakthrough, doctors in the United Kingdom have announced the birth of eight healthy babies using a pioneering IVF procedure that involves DNA from three individuals, aimed at preventing incurable mitochondrial diseases. The landmark achievement offers hope to families carrying inherited genetic mutations and marks a significant milestone in reproductive medicine. A Revolutionary Approach to Stopping Mitochondrial Disease The mothers involved were all at high risk of passing on severe, life-threatening mitochondrial disorders—genetic conditions that can cause early-onset organ failure, developmental delays, and early death. These disorders are caused by mutations in mitochondria, the cell’s energy-producing structures, which are passed exclusively from mother to child. The cutting-edge procedure, known as Mitochondrial Donation Treatment (MDT), involves fertilizing an egg from the mother with the father’s sperm, and then transferring the nucleus of that embryo into a donor egg that has healthy mitochondria and had its own nucleus removed. This results in an embryo that carries nuclear DNA from the biological parents, but healthy mitochondria from a third donor, effectively bypassing the faulty mitochondrial genes. Success After Years of Research and Regulation The development follows nearly two decades of research led by scientists at Newcastle University, who were granted the world’s first license for the treatment in 2017 after the UK became the first country to legalize the procedure in 2015. The eight children—four boys and four girls, including one set of identical twins—were born to seven women, with an additional pregnancy still ongoing. All babies were free of mitochondrial disease symptoms at birth. Minor medical issues in three children, including a urinary infection and muscle jerks, were resolved without complications. Expert Reactions: Relief and Encouragement Professor Doug Turnbull, a key figure behind the project, called the results “reassuring” and a “relief” for both researchers and affected families. Prof Mary Herbert, also part of the pioneering team, described the successful births as “rewarding for all of us.” The Genetics Behind the Breakthrough While humans have around 20,000 genes located in the cell nucleus, mitochondria contain their own 37 genes. When these are mutated, they can severely disrupt cell function, especially in energy-hungry organs like the brain, heart, and muscles. One in every 5,000 newborns is affected by mitochondrial disease. Importantly, genetic tests confirmed that the babies had none or only very low levels of mutant mitochondria, suggesting the treatment was largely successful in its goal. However, some trace amounts of maternal mitochondria were carried over, indicating that the procedure may need further refinement to eliminate even minimal risk. A New Era in Reproductive Medicine The successful births, now detailed in the New England Journal of Medicine, herald a new era in preventing inherited diseases through reproductive intervention. As the children continue to grow, their long-term health will be closely monitored. For now, the announcement offers hope and inspiration for families worldwide grappling with genetic conditions once thought to be unpreventable.

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South Asia Achieves Record-High Child Immunization Coverage in 2024, Led by India and Nepal

South Asia has reached its highest-ever child immunization coverage, with remarkable progress made in India and Nepal, according to new data released jointly by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF on July 15, 2025, for the calendar year 2024. India and Nepal Lead the Way India witnessed a 43% reduction in the number of zero-dose children — those who have not received even a single vaccine — dropping from 1.6 million in 2023 to 0.9 million in 2024. Nepal made even sharper gains, reducing its zero-dose children by 52%, from 23,000 to 11,000, the WHO said. Pakistan also saw improvement, recording its highest-ever DTP3 (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) coverage at 87%. However, Afghanistan remains a concern, with the lowest immunization coverage in the region and a slight decline from last year. “This is a proud moment for South Asia… But we cannot forget the millions of children who are under-vaccinated or unvaccinated,” said Sanjay Wijesekera, UNICEF Regional Director for South Asia. DTP and Measles Vaccine Progress Across South Asia: The region also saw major advances in measles control: Still, experts warn that measles vaccination coverage must cross 95% to prevent future outbreaks. Rise in HPV Vaccination HPV vaccine coverage for adolescent girls rose from 2% in 2023 to 9% in 2024 across South Asia. Driving the Success The improvements are credited to: “We must build on this momentum,” said Dr. Thaksaphon Thamarangsi of WHO South-East Asia Region. “Together we can, and we must.” Challenges Ahead Despite the successes, 2.9 million children in South Asia remain un- or under-vaccinated, leaving them vulnerable to preventable diseases. WHO and UNICEF have called on South Asian governments to: This historic progress marks a significant milestone for child health in South Asia, as the region emerges stronger from the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

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