LETTERS Physical activity: An essential human need beyond and independent of COVID-19
W
e desperately need to explore both the short- and long-term consequences physical inactivity has on adolescents, and identify effective ways of promoting increases in physical activity, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Virtual schooling and social distancing have drastically reduced physical activity and increased the use of screens,
and the consequences of these changes could last a lifetime. Adolescents make up nearly one quarter of the world’s population, and by ensuring that they grow up in social and physical environments that are supportive of physical activity, we are helping to change their health right now, improve their future health, and positively influence the health of the next generation. Dr Esther van Sluijs, University of Cambridge, UK
For every two COVID-19 deaths worldwide, one child is left
and invest in evidence-based programs and services to protect
Persistent underfunding of the public health system especially primary health care and inadequate health infrastructure in India remain to be addressed by the government even after the devastating second wave. Otherwise, health emergencies will only aggravate existing inequalities and work as a detriment for the poor and the marginalised. Declaring health as a constitutional right can help to bridge these gaps.
and support them right now and to continue to support them
Amitabh Behar, CEO, Oxfam India
behind to face the death of a parent or caregiver. By April 30, 2021, these 1.5 million children had become the tragic overlooked the consequence of the 3 million COVID-19 deaths worldwide, and this number will only increase as the pandemic progresses. Our findings highlight the urgent need to prioritize these children
for many years into the future – because orphanhood does not
mission consistently.
Most of the times lung cancer is mistaken for tuberculosis in the earlier stages as the symptoms of both diseases are very similar. In both cases, a patient experiences coughing and or coughing up blood. Smoking continues to be a major cause oflung cancer, the risk of developing lung cancer in smokers versus non-smokers is 20:1. A passive smoker has an increased chances of contracting cancer than a smoker. For treating the patient at the early stage, surgery is the most important method followed by radiotherapy. Now, more advanced therapy like targeted therapy and immunotherapy options are available which increases overall survival and a leads to better quality of life. Targeted and immunotherapies have fewer side effects compared to chemotherapy. Genetic testing has been a boon in deciding the therapy options leading to better survival rates.
Dr Alexander Kuruvilla, Chief Healthcare Strategy Officer, Practo
Dr. (Brig) S. Viswanath, Medical Oncologist, Kumaran Hospital
go away. Dr Susan Hillis, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention COVID-19 Response Team Online consultations have been on a steady rise since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and the demand persists even after the second wave has passed. As the possibility of a third wave looms over, it becomes even more important to make quality healthcare accessible to people when they need it. Practo stands committed to its mission of helping patients access quality care, 24*7. And it is with the continued support of doctors and other healthcare partners that we have been able to deliver on that
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August 2021
