Pakistan News World

Drinking very hot tea and coffee may significantly increase the risk of developing oesophageal cancer, according to a major UK study involving nearly one million people. Researchers found that people who preferred their drinks “very hot” had around three times the risk of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) compared with those who drank them warm, although experts stressed that the overall likelihood of developing the disease remains relatively low. The study, led by Dr Keren Papier, senior nutritional epidemiologist at the University of Oxford’s population health department, analysed hot-drink habits and health outcomes among 977,282 middle-aged adults. Participants were asked how they preferred to drink hot beverages, choosing between “very hot”, “hot”, “warm” or “do not drink hot drinks”. Their responses were based on their own perception of temperature rather than precise measurements. The findings showed that drinking beverages at a “very hot” temperature was associated ...

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the authorities concerned to expedite the process of health sector reforms. He was presiding over a meeting in Islamabad today [Wednesday] regarding the Ministry of National Health Services and the PIMS fire incident, shortly after returning from Kyrgyzstan. On this occasion, the Prime Minister was briefed on the health sector, with a particular focus on the ongoing investigation into the fire incident at PIMS. The meeting was informed that the Prime Minister's decisions are being implemented in light of the findings of the interim investigation report. Shehbaz Sharif said that officials found guilty of criminal negligence will be shown no leniency. He instructed the authorities concerned to ensure improved healthcare facilities and the implementation of all necessary safety measures at PIMS. The Prime Minister directed both the Health Minister and the Health Secretary to ensure their presence at PIMS Hospital on alternate days and o...

Gold prices in Pakistan recorded a modest increase in both local and international markets. According to the All Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA), the price of gold per tola in the local market increased by Rs300, reaching Rs427,736. Similarly, the price of 10 grams of gold rose by Rs257 to Rs366,714, the APGJSA said. In the international market, gold prices increased by $3 to $4,053 per ounce. The rise came after a sharp decline in the previous trading session, when the price of gold per tola dropped by Rs4,600 to Rs427,436. Market experts said investors continue to consider gold a safe-haven asset during periods of economic uncertainty, driving demand for the precious metal. They added that gold prices could move higher if global geopolitical tensions and economic concerns persist. However, fluctuations remain possible if the US dollar strengthens or global monetary policies change. Experts advised investors to closely monitor local and international mar...

Pakistan has asked the United States for a $10 billion exchange stabilisation facility, according to a source briefed on the matter, which, if approved, could provide a lifeline for the cash-strapped South Asian economy. The request, which is being reported for the first time, follows Pakistan's role in brokering talks over the US-Iran war, which raised its diplomatic profile and stirred hopes that it could seek economic gains from Washington and other partners. In the request to US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Islamabad is seeking a Bilateral Exchange Stabilisation Support Facility between the US and the Pakistani government worth $10 billion with a maturity of up to five years. The facility, if agreed to, would bolster Pakistan's reserves, ease pressure on the rupee and reduce its reliance on multilateral financing, even as Islamabad undertakes tighter fiscal and monetary policies in line with its International Monetary Fund programme. The US Treasury declined to com...

The federal government has decided to review fuel prices on a daily basis amid a surge in global oil rates, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said on Friday. Addressing a press conference alongside Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Malik said the decision was approved by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the federal cabinet. Renewed military strikes in the Middle East were also weighing on risk sentiment, keeping oil prices elevated and reigniting concerns about inflation and growth. Oil prices were on the rise, with Brent crude futures LCOc1 up 0.6% at $84.75 a barrel, while US crude CLc1 advanced 1.1% to $79.8 per barrel. He said the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) would determine fuel prices daily, with updated rates to be published on its website. Expressing concern over renewed tensions in the Middle East, the minister said the conflict heightened uncertainty in global energy markets. He noted that international diesel prices had risen sharply following the lat...

Follistatin-344 has emerged as a molecule of growing interest within peptide research, particularly due to its intricate relationship with growth factor signaling networks. Originally characterized as an endogenous binding protein with high affinity for members of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily, this peptide fragment represents a truncated yet functionally significant variant of the broader follistatin protein family. Within experimental contexts, Follistatin-344 has been explored for its potential to modulate signaling cascades that are fundamental to cellular differentiation, tissue remodeling, and systemic regulatory balance. At the molecular level, follistatin is encoded by the FST gene and undergoes alternative splicing, giving rise to multiple isoforms, among which Follistatin-344 serves as a precursor form. This peptide is subsequently processed into shorter active variants, such as Follistatin-315, through proteolytic cleavage. Research indicates that ...

The government on Friday slashed the price of petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD) by Rs5 per litre each for the next week. In a notification issued on Friday, the Petroleum Division said new fuel rates will come into effect from May 16. Following the decrease, the price of petrol stands at Rs409.78 per litre and HSD at Rs409.58. In the previous weekly review, the government raised the price of petrol by Rs14.92 per litre and HSD by Rs15. The government has been reviewing petroleum prices on a weekly basis since the US-Israeli conflict with Iran on February 28. The conflict also triggered a global fuel crunch after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route through which around one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supplies pass during peacetime. Global oil prices gained more than 3% on Friday, climbing more than $3 a barrel, after comments by US President Donald Trump and Iran's foreign minister further dented hopes of a deal to end ship attacks and seizures around the St...

Scorching heatwaves fuelled by global warming are increasing the risk of dangerous complications during pregnancies across the world, a report warned on Wednesday. Being exposed to extreme heat while pregnant has previously been linked to a range of problems, including a higher risk of premature birth, stillbirth, birth defects and gestational diabetes. The new report from the US-based research group Climate Central sought to measure how many more pregnant women have been exposed to excessive heat since 2020 and to what extent climate change is to blame. In 222 out of the 247 countries and territories studied, "climate change at least doubled the average annual number of pregnancy heat-risk days experienced during the past five years", the report said. The biggest increases were in developing countries where access to healthcare is limited, such as in the Caribbean, Central and South America, the Pacific islands, Southeast Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. The researchers o...

A high alert has been declared in all major hospitals across the federal capital. According to hospital sources, all major public hospitals in the federal capital will remain on high alert including Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS)and Federal Government Polyclinic (FGPC) hospital. Authorities have cancelled all staff leaves in response to the current situation. All medical and support personnel have been directed to remain on duty, while staff members currently outside the city have been instructed to report back immediately. via Original Source

The Sindh government has decided to enforce a comprehensive ban on the production, sale, and use of plastic bags throughout the province, including Karachi. According to a notification issued by the Department of Environment, Climate Change, and Coastal Development, the ban on plastic bags will come into effect from June 15. The ban will apply to non-degradable, oxo-degradable, black, and recycled plastic bags, with only environmentally friendly alternatives permitted in the market, said Environment Secretary Agha Shah Nawaz. He added that the department will adopt a zero-tolerance policy, stating, “Polybags are a root cause of environmental destruction. This is not just an announcement—it will be strictly enforced.” Violators of the ban will face stringent legal action as the government aims to ensure full implementation across Sindh. Earlier, Chairperson, Senate Standing on Climate Change, Senator Sherry Rehman on World Plastic Bag Free Day said that the country was consuming ...

Acne mapping is a part of face mapping that focuses specifically on acne. There are various reasons why acne can get triggered such as hormonal imbalance, loss of appetite, and stress. The location of the acne helps you gain insights into these potential triggers and effectively address the problem. The following are a few common areas where acne occurs: Forehead: Related to stress, poor digestion, or liver issues. Cheek Acne: Indicate respiratory issues or allergies. Nose Acne: Connected to blood pressure, circulation, and cholesterol. Chin acne: Related to hormonal imbalance. Mouth acne: Linked to issues with the stomach that include poor digestion and appetite. Acne on the face can be tackled easily by incorporating the right ingredients into your skincare routine. Here are 3 common solutions for you to tackle facial acne. Benzoyl Peroxide: By unclogging the pores on the skin, benzoyl peroxide prevents bacteria and pathogens that cause bacteria to prevail in them. B...

You need cholesterol. It’s a crucial material your body uses to build the hormones, cells, and vitamins that keep you alive and healthy. But many people have high cholesterol levels, which puts them at an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. What is cholesterol? Many people are familiar with the term “cholesterol,” and have heard that high cholesterol is dangerous. But to truly grasp the value of healthy cholesterol levels, it’s important to understand what the word means. Cholesterol is a particle in the blood that all humans and animals need to live. Its primary role is to create a membrane—like a bubble—around molecules in the body and help them travel from place to place. What are the worst foods for high cholesterol? The worst foods for high cholesterol, given their high saturated fat content, include: Red meat, like beef, and lamb, as well as processed meats like sausage Full-fat dairy, like cream, whole milk, and butter Baked goods and sweets Fried foods Tro...

There are plenty of products to choose from when it comes to whitening your teeth. However, most whitening products use chemicals to bleach your teeth, which could be a concern for many people. If you want whiter teeth but also want to avoid the chemicals, this article lists many options that are both natural and safe. Practice oil pulling: Oil pulling is a traditional remedy, originating in India, meant to improve oral hygiene and remove toxins from the body. The practice involves swishing oil around in your mouth to remove bacteria, which can turn into plaque and cause your teeth to look yellow. Coconut oil is a popular choice because it has a pleasant taste and offers many health benefits. Coconut oil is also high in lauric acid, which is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. A few studies have shown that daily oil pulling reduces bacteria in the mouth, along with plaque and gingivitis. Streptococcus mutans is one of the primary types of bacteria ...

Across the world, it has been commonly observed that many people experience heel pain upon waking up, even after a long and comfortable sleep. Often, this discomfort is considered minor, and most individuals neither seek medical advice nor undergo any treatment. However, as time passes and age advances, the pain can intensify and eventually become unbearable. Despite its widespread occurrence, the exact cause of this pain remains unclear to many. So, let’s explore the potential causes of heel pain and discover effective ways to manage and eliminate it. Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the tissue that connects heel to toes. Pain is usually sharp and worst in the morning. Heel Spurs: Calcium deposits that cause a bony protrusion. Often linked with plantar fasciitis. Achilles Tendinitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon at the back of the heel. Common in runners and active people. Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa (fluid-filled sac). Pain and swelling at the back or ...

A new study has found that intensive management of high blood pressure through medication and lifestyle coaching can significantly reduce the risk of developing dementia. Researchers in China and the United States found that individuals receiving intensive interventions experienced a 15% lower risk of dementia compared to those receiving standard care, The Guradian reported. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that 57 million people worldwide were living with dementia in 2021, but experts emphasise that it is not an inevitable part of ageing. The study, published in the journal Nature, involved 33,995 individuals aged 40 and over with uncontrolled hypertension across rural China. The research team randomly assigned participants from 326 villages to either an intensive blood pressure management group or a usual care group. The intensive intervention provided by "village doctors" included free or low-cost, tailored blood pressure medications, personalised healt...

Dark chocolate is the most scrumptious and soft treat one can love without hesitation. Benefits of Dark chocolate not only exceed its rich taste, but also the nutrients packed in it support overall body and health. As many people desire a sweet treat after meals, they often choose desserts made of sweet sugar. However, in this regard, dark chocolate can be a great alternative to traditional sweets to have after the meal. Helpful in Blood sugar control and Cardiac care: Having dark chocolate helps those who want to regulate their sugar levels. It is made of cocoa polyphenols that control insulin balance, reducing the risk of diabetes. Moreover, it contains flavonoids that act as strong antioxidants, refining cardiac health by balancing cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure. Maintains mental comfort and digestive health: Dark chocolate is famous for reducing tension, mental pressure and anxiety. It holds serotonin and endorphins, which are helpful to give enhancement to ...

If you are looking for several ways to prevent colds, the flu, and other infections, then you should visit the nearest grocery store and plan your meals by including powerful immune booster foods. Food fix: Strengthen your immune system Consume these nutrient-rich products in your diet to boost your immune system naturally. Citrus fruits: Most people turn straight to vitamin C after they’ve caught a cold. That’s because it helps build up your immune system. Vitamin C improves the production of white blood cells, which are an integral part of our defence system. Most citrus fruits are rich in Vitamin C which helps boost your immunity. The best citrus fruits include grapefruit, oranges, clementines, lemons, and more. Red bell peppers: Ounce for ounce, red bell peppers have 3 times as much vitamin C (127 mg) as a Florida orange (45 mg), and they are considered to be a perfect source of energy. They’re rich in beta-carotene, which the human body converts into Vitamin A. It is be...

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was informed on Thursday that as a result of the dedicated nationwide anti-polio campaigns, not a single case of polio had been reported in the country since February 10. Chairing the review meeting on polio eradication, the prime minister commended the efforts of relevant government institutions, international organisations, and partners to make Pakistan polio-free. He directed the relevant authorities to ensure awareness and community mobilisation regarding the anti-polio campaign across the country. "It must be ensured that every child under five years of age is administered the polio vaccine during the anti-polio campaign starting from April 21," he added. He emphasised that alongside the campaign, nationwide routine immunisation for protection against other dangerous diseases should also be fully ensured. "Despite challenging conditions, the workers participating in the anti-polio campaign are playing a frontline role in the figh...

Watching your baby grow is an unforgettable experience. But while every child develops at their own speed, failing to reach certain milestones can raise red flags that may point to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Autism is a complex neurological and developmental disorder that can affect social skills like playing, learning, and communicating. Repetitive behaviors, obsessive interests, and challenges with food and eating are other common symptoms, but every autistic person is unique. Individual cases of autism also fall on a spectrum ranging from mild to severe. It's rare to see signs of autism in newborns but some parents do. Here's how to recognize the early signs of autism in infants and why prompt diagnosis is key to managing the condition. Autism in young children Signs of autism in young children include: (1) Not responding to their name (2 Avoiding eye contact (3) Not smiling when you smile at them (4) Getting very upset if they do not like a certain taste, sme...

High cortisol symptoms include weight gain, changes to skin or hair, reproductive changes like irregular periods, and muscle weakness and fatigue. Cortisol, a hormone produced in the adrenal glands, controls many body functions. It regulates blood sugar and metabolism, supports immune function, controls blood pressure and inflammation, and manages the stress response. When cortisol levels remain high for a long time, it can lead to Cushing's syndrome. This rare condition affects about 10-15 people per million each year. Consistently high cortisol can lead to other complications. It's important to recognize the signs and symptoms so you can receive treatment. Many cases of Cushing's syndrome can be cured. What Are the Signs and Symptoms? Not everyone with high cortisol or Cushing's syndrome will have the same symptoms. You may be more likely to have noticeable symptoms if you have high cortisol levels for a long time. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of...