Covid can raise risk of liver problems, acid reflux, ulcers: Study

NEW YORK, MAR 8

(IANS): People who have had Covid-19 are at increased risk of developing gastrointestinal (GI) disorders such as liver problems, acute pancreatitis, irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux, and ulcers, within a year after infection compared with people who haven’t been infected, according to a study.

People infected with Covid.-19 can also see an increased likelihood of constipation, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, bloating and vomiting.

“Gastrointestinal problems were among the first that were reported by the patient community,” senior author Ziyad Al-Aly, a clinical epidemiologist at Washington University said. “It is increasingly clear that the gastrointestinal tract serves as a reservoir for the virus.”

The gastrointestinal system includes the mouth, throat, oesophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, rectum and anus, as well as organs, such as the liver and pancreas, that produce enzymes to aid in the digestion of food and liquids.

For the study, published in the journal Nature Communications, the researchers analysed about

14 million medical records. They found that GI disorders were 36 per cent more likely in people with Covid-19 compared with those who had not been in- fected with the virus. This includes people who were and were not hospitalised because of the virus.

Further, people who had Covid were also at a 62 per cent increased risk of developing ulcers in the lining of the stomach or small intestine; a 35 per cent heightened risk of suffering from acid reflux disease; and a 46 per cent increased risk of experiencing acute pancreatitis.

Covid patients were also 54 per cent more likely to suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, 47 per cent more likely to experience inflammation of the stomach lining, and 36 per cent more likely to have an upset stomach without an obvious cause.

Similarly, those who had Covid-19 were 54 per cent more likely to experience digestive symptoms such as constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, vomiting and abdominal pain, the findings showed.

The researchers estimate that, so far, infections caused by SARS-CoV-2 have contributed to 42 million new cases worldwide.

“This is no small number, Al-Aly said. “It is crucial to include gastrointestinal health as an integral part of post-acute Covid care.” submitted their letter of support, who knows we may have an opposition-less government,’ he said, but maintained that such decision would taken only after discussion between NDPPBJP alliance partners. Patton further pointed out that portfolio distribution was the prerogative of the chief minister and hoped that this would be done soon.

To a query, he disclosed that the first cabinet meeting was held right after the swearing-in ceremony where the ministers got introduced to each other, which was followed by the decision on election to ur- ban local bodies (ULB).

Meanwhile, Patton also expressed his gratitude and appreciation to all those who had contributed to the victory of NDPP-BJP alliance in the just-concluded Assembly election despite many challenges and difficulties faced during the electioneering process. He also congratulated all the elected legislators.

As BJP Legislative Party (BLP) leader and convener for Assembly election, Patton further thanked Modi, Shah, Nadda and BJP national secretary BL Santosh for their unconditional support and guidance.

Rev. Dr. Kavito appointed as BSI general secretary

DIMAPUR, MAR 8

(NPN): Rev. Dr. Kavito

Zhimo from Nagaland has been appointed as general secretary of Bible Society of India (BSI) Bangalore headquarters.

In a press release, BSI Dimapur auxiliary secretary Rev. Dr. Yiepetso Wezah informed that Rev.Dr. Kavito took over the office on March 1, 2023 from Rev. Dr. Mani Chacko, who had served the BSI for 12 years (2011-2023).

Rev. Wezah said it was “historic moment” for North East Indian to serve as general secretary BSI since its formation in 1811. “We humbly pray that under his leadership we will be able to reach the Holy Bible to the unreached groups of people,” Rev. Dr. Wezah stated. BSI with its headquarters in Bangalore has 17 Auxiliaries across India. It has Centre for Translation, Shillong for the North East India.