Publications

Integrating biological phenomena with electronic circuits paves the way for innovative bio-inspired System-on-Chip (SoC) designs. These SoCs capture the stochasticity, non-linearity, and dynamic behavior of complex biological pathways, offering a more economical, faster, and cruelty-free approach to conducting drug trials. We draw analogies between chemistry and subthreshold electronics to create fast, scalable, bio-inspired Metal Oxide Semiconductor (MOS)-based SoC design of stochastic apoptosis networks. Mathematical models for the proteins involved in the apoptosis pathway are developed using nonlinear ordinary differential equations to capture their interdependent dynamics in response to stimuli. The pathway is represented as a system governed by the principles of Michaelis-Menten kinetics and steady-state approximations. This system model is then translated into an equivalent electronic circuit, where each component is implemented using a MOSFET-based dual-stage differential amplifier. The simulation results, depicting the concentrations of pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins, accurately replicate their respective dynamics and inter-molecular interactions throughout the apoptosis process. We have validated our simulated data with cell-culture based-data using Pearson's correlation method for the proteins, showing strong positive correlation. Quantitative analysis using bio-simulator tool COPASI 4.25, shows noteworthy resemblance with simulated outcomes. Additionally, the cytomorphic system satisfies the stability criteria in both continuous and discrete time domains, ensuring its feasibility and reliability.

In India, oral cancer ranks as the third most common cancer in men and the fourth in women, largely due to the prevalent use of tobacco. Data on oral cancer screening among tobacco users in India are limited.

Smokeless tobacco (SLT) use is a major global risk factor for oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs). However, the differential impact of SLT product composition, particularly tobacco-only versus combined tobacco-areca nut products, on OPMD prevalence remains inadequately characterized.

The incidence of mortality and cumulative risk of developing cancer has been consistently high in the northeastern Region of India. Cancer is among the leading causes of death in Mizoram. This survey is an approach to implement a baseline monitoring system to drive us in understanding the linkage between exposures to risk factors, other noncommunicable diseases, and cancer incidence.

Integrated multidisciplinary care is recognised as essential for people living with motor neurone disease (PlwMND) and their families. The values underpinning integrated care, such as person-centredness, respect, empowerment, and co-production, are central to delivering meaningful and comprehensive support. Trust is an essential yet often overlooked element of effective person- and family-centred integrated care, particularly for PlwMND. While specialist multidisciplinary MND clinics represent the benchmark for evidence-based care, many PlwMND and their families depend significantly on local and community-based support services to maintain quality of life. Trust directly influences their engagement with these services and the continuity of care provided. Trust enables understanding of personal priorities and how they change as the disease progresses, ultimately allowing for person-centred care to happen. Trust is necessary to enable service co-production, which is a strong value of integrated care. Research highlights seven key domains of support essential to PlwMND and their carers: practical, social, informational, psychological, physical, emotional, and spiritual. Effective integrated care requires strong relationships built upon trust, shared decision-making, respect for individuality, and clear communication. Furthermore, due to the rapidly progressive nature of MND, care priorities and perceived symptom burdens may shift significantly over short periods, making flexible, temporally sensitive approaches critical. A dynamic, inclusive model of decision-making that fosters autonomy within and regular co-review of needs is recommended. This perspective paper examines how person- and family-centred integrated care is currently being delivered, what is working well, and how these practices can be further strengthened to enhance the care experiences of PlwMND, their families, and the health and social care providers involved. This paper builds on both theoretical knowledge and clinical experience to offer our perspective on the critical role of trust in co-producing integrated care for PlwMND. It brings together the voices of clinicians and researchers, alongside those with lived experience of MND. We propose a diagram of care that embeds the core values of integrated, person-centred care within the specific context of MND. Our aim is to enhance collaborative practices, strengthen cross-sector partnerships, and ultimately improve the care experiences for professionals, PlwMND, and their families.

The valorization of genetic intravarietal variability through the identification of the most suitable genotypes for yield and must quality is an adequate strategy for grapevine selection. Currently, climate change affects vine yield and wine quality in numerous ways, but little information is available on intravarietal variability regarding responses to abiotic stresses. In the current work, the intravarietal genetic variability of the Portuguese white variety Arinto was studied for yield, must quality, and for tolerance to abiotic stress, through indirect, rapid, and nondestructive measurements in the field. An innovative approach in selection for abiotic stress tolerance is described. The surface leaf temperature (SLT) of clones under environmental conditions of drought and extreme heat was measured, as were the NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index); PRI (Photochemical Reflectance Index); and chlorophyll content through the SPAD index, yield, and the characteristics of the must (pH, acidity, and °Brix). The application of this methodology was carried out in an experimental population of 165 Arinto clones for three years. Linear mixed models were fitted to the data from evaluated traits, and the empirical best linear unbiased predictors (EBLUPs) of genotypic effects were obtained, as well as the coefficient of genotypic variation (CVG) and broad-sense heritability. The genotypes were ranked according to their level of tolerance to abiotic stress without loss of yield/quality. SLT enabled the identification of clones that regulate stomata opening during stress, thus correlating positively with yield. SLT appears, thus, to be the most robust and reliable indicator to assess tolerance to stress in large field trials for grapevine selection. The results enabled the selection of a group of ten clones with increased tolerance to stress, compared to the average of the variety which maintained the typical must quality of Arinto.

 Oral cavity cancer (OCC) is a significant public health concern in India, where tobacco use contributes to aggressive disease patterns, mainly smokeless tobacco. This study evaluated the clinicopathological profile of OCC patients, focusing on the influence of gutka, bidi, and cigarette use, as well as age distribution and TNM staging.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is increasingly diagnosed early, close to its first occurrence due to: (i) increased public awareness with self-screening; (ii) health care initiatives including population screening and opportunistic case finding; and (iii) increased use and surveillance of implantable cardiac devices. At its onset, AF is often low burden, and cardiovascular co-morbidities may be absent or at an early stage. Thus, the management of recent-onset AF has become an issue of growing importance. Professional guidelines have traditionally focused on anticoagulant thromboprophylaxis, generally recommending a cautious approach to rhythm control, and priority has been given to rate control to alleviate symptoms. In recent guidelines, the importance of managing lifestyle and co-morbidities has increased. The AF-SCREEN collaboration proposes that a vigorous approach to active management of recent-onset AF may be warranted. This includes addressing co-morbidities and promoting healthy lifestyles to prevent the emergence or progression of AF and associated cardiovascular disease, as well as the initiation of active rhythm control ± anticoagulation to prevent AF-related morbidity and mortality, including stroke and heart failure (HF). Intuitively, intervention early after AF onset would be beneficial since lifestyle and co-morbidity management, plus rhythm control and anticoagulation, are important contributors to improved outcomes in patients with established AF, but robust evidence is lacking for recent-onset AF. There is a delicate balance between achieving favourable outcomes such as preventing strokes, HF and AF progression vs the complications and potential adverse effects of interventions. Given the serious long-term consequences, innovative approaches are necessary to determine the value and risks of initiating active therapy very early in the course of AF. More data are needed to guide the best management of recent-onset AF, bearing AF burden in mind. Long-term studies using large national databases linked to electronic medical records and rhythm monitoring devices offer excellent opportunities. Shorter-term studies focusing on reducing AF burden to slow AF progression and studies focusing on outcomes such as HF could be used in both randomized clinical trials and observational cohort studies.

One of the most pressing global threats to public health is the use of tobacco, which not only claims lives but also has significant negative social and economic impacts. Over 8 million individuals die globally each year as a result of using tobacco products. Children aged 13–15 years, are currently estimated to consume tobacco with a high rate of 8.4% in India, and 5.4% in the state of Gujarat. Almost half of the adolescents aged 13–15 year who consumed tobacco reported starting tobacco use at around 10 years of age. Preventing tobacco-related mortality is an urgent issue, globally.

Dementia is a complex, multifactorial syndrome characterised by cognitive decline and impaired daily functioning, representing a major risk factor for long-term care dependency. As the prevalence of dementia will increase due to demographic change, healthcare systems face growing challenges, including timely diagnosis, equitable access to care, and managing the rising demand for health services. Speech-language therapy (SLT) and occupational therapy (OT) can help maintain cognitive function and quality of life, particularly in the early stages of dementia or mild cognitive impairment (MCI). However, their utilisation in Germany remains poorly understood.

Arsenic contamination of ground water is a global problem. Consumption of smokeless tobacco called '' is a common lifestyle practice in Assam, India. As a result, the population is more vulnerable to health outcomes with regard to female reproductive anomalies. Phytochemicals are abundant in antioxidants, the current study examined the protective effects of quercetin (Qc) and curcumin (Cur) against the toxicity caused by smokeless tobacco and arsenic. Female Swiss albino mice ( = 66) were randomly divided into eleven different groups viz., Control, Positive control (DMSO), Sodium arsenite (SA), (SG), SA+SG, SA+Qc, SG+Qc, SA+SG+Qc, SA+Cur, SG+Cur, and SA+SG+Cur. Estrous cycle; ovarian and uterine histopathological changes were recorded. Utilizing the comet assay, the DNA damage of tissues was examined, and biochemical analysis was performed to determine oxidative stress level. The study of estrous cycle showed that changes in different phases of estrous cycle was altered by both As and SG exposure. However, Qc and Cur exposure showed a significant notable recovery. It was observed that Qc and Cur lowered the DNA damage induced by As and SG. Histological examinations showed abnormal tissue architecture in mice treated with SG and SA that is restored by administration of curcumin and quercetin. In contrast to As and SG treatment, quercetin and curcumin supplementation significantly increased GSH and SOD activity in experimental mice. According to the current study, curcumin and quercetin lowered the induced oxidative stress. Therefore, these phytochemicals can act as a protective mediator against the female reproductive toxicity caused by smokeless tobacco and arsenic coexposure.

Herbal tobacco cessation products (HTCPs), marketed with claims to support tobacco or nicotine cessation, are increasingly sold online in low-income and middle-income countries. However, there is little regulatory oversight or evidence on their safety and effectiveness. This study assessed the availability, affordability, claims and regulation of HTCPs on Indian e-commerce platforms.

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is an oral potentially malignant disorder associated with a high risk of malignant transformation, characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM). The primary etiological factors contributing to OSMF include betel nut chewing, smoking, and tobacco use, with or without alcohol consumption. Exposure to betel nut, smokeless tobacco extracts, and cigarette smoke induces cytotoxicity in oral epithelial cells through apoptosis and oxidative stress, while simultaneously promoting fibroblast proliferation and ECM synthesis. Arecoline, a major alkaloid in betel nut, contributes to epithelial atrophy, senescence, and apoptosis. It also activates the JNK/ATF2/Jun pathway, leading to the activation of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling in epithelial cells. TGF-β1 signaling, initiated by epithelial cells, activates fibroblasts in a paracrine manner, facilitating their transition to myofibroblasts and resulting in excessive ECM deposition within the OSMF microenvironment. Furthermore, arecoline stimulates fibroblast proliferation and activates the TGF-β1/SMAD signaling pathway, thereby promoting ECM synthesis. From a therapeutic perspective, intralesional administration of corticosteroids (such as dexamethasone, betamethasone, hydrocortisone, or triamcinolone) combined with hyaluronidase and antioxidants has shown improvements in mouth opening, burning sensations, and overall quality of life in OSMF patients. Additionally, herbal medicines such as curcumin and aloe vera have demonstrated efficacy, particularly in enhancing tongue protrusion and alleviating burning sensations, respectively. Lycopene and salvianolic acid B have also proven beneficial in relieving clinical symptoms and contributing to the long-term management of OSMF.

Globally, rural areas have a higher prevalence of tobacco consumption compared to urban areas. The reasons for this are poorly known but include individual, demographic, socio-economic, cultural and environmental factors. Among middle aged and elderly individuals in India, we estimated the rural-urban disparities in current smoked and smokeless tobacco use and conducted a decomposition analysis to identify the underlying determinates that contributed to the disparities.

Smokeless tobacco (SLT) consumption has several adverse impacts on pregnancy and child health outcomes, particularly among women in low-income settings. SLT use during pregnancy heightens the risks, like preterm births, stillbirth, babies with low birth weight, and small for gestational age. The present qualitative study explored the patterns and contributing factors associated with SLT use behavior among pregnant and lactating mothers in slum settings. We conducted a qualitative study using in-depth interviews among pregnant and lactating women aged 18-49 years in the slums of Bhubaneswar. All participants were current users of smokeless tobacco (SLT) with a history of more than one year of consumption. The interviews were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. Participants primarily consumed SLT products such as Paan, Khaini, Areca Nut, Gundi, Dukta, Gudakhu, and Gutkha, with consumption patterns varying based on personal preference, cravings, and affordability. 45% of pregnant women and 55% of lactating women reported consuming SLT immediately after waking up. Economic constraints influenced product preferences and consumption frequency. Key factors influencing SLT use included peer and family influence, stress relief, pregnancy-induced craving, curiosity, individual attitude and beliefs, to remaining engaged in work. Also, the study finding shows long-term effects of SLT use among pregnant and lactating women. Notably, 52.5% (n = 21) of participants started SLT use during their adolescence and 57.5% (n = 23) had no formal education. For the enrolled pregnant women and lactating mothers, the mean age of SLT initiation was 14.95 years and 12.58 years, respectively, indicating a significantly longer history of tobacco consumption. The present study provides a detailed qualitative understanding of the use of smokeless tobacco among pregnant and lactating mothers living in low-income settings like slums. The findings of this study have strong explanations to support healthcare professionals and policymakers in undertaking interventions and promoting anti-tobacco campaigns and awareness programmes addressing the health hazards for maternal and neonatal health.

Amycretin is a novel unimolecular glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and amylin receptor agonist. This study aimed to determine its role in mitigating diet-induced metabolic disorders, such as obesity, insulin resistance, and fatty liver disease, in mice and rats.

Nicotine pouches (NPs) contain no tobacco leaf but instead are filled with nicotine powder, flavorants, and pH adjusters. There are very few independent (i.e., non-industry-funded/affiliated) studies regarding the effects of NPs. The purpose of this industry-independent study is to examine NP effects in people who use smokeless tobacco (SLT). Twenty-four participants completed four sessions that included three NP conditions (2, 4, and 8 mg labeled total nicotine content; "on!" brand, Altria, Richmond, Virginia) and participants' own brand (OB) SLT. Participants completed two 30-min administration periods per session, and outcomes included plasma nicotine concentration as well as subjective and behavioral economic measures. Results indicate that the 8 mg NP did not differ significantly from OB across physiological and subjective measures; the 4 mg NP differed from OB and 8 mg on some measures, and the 2 mg NP reliably delivered less nicotine and reduced abstinence symptoms less effectively when compared to OB and the 8 mg NP. Study results offer preliminary support for the notion that higher nicotine content NPs may substitute for SLT in people who use SLT regularly, while lower nicotine content NPs may not. Overall, labeled nicotine content influences the nicotine delivery and abstinence symptom suppression of "on!" brand NP, and nicotine content and delivery should be considered when assessing the individual and public health impact of NP regulations. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).

Smokeless tobacco use represents a significant public health concern globally, yet comprehensive prevalence data across West Asian populations remain limited. This systematic review and meta-analysis estimated the pooled prevalence of smokeless tobacco use in West Asian countries across age groups and geographic regions. A systematic literature search was conducted across databases from inception to May 2025. Studies reporting prevalence data on smokeless tobacco use in West Asian countries were included. Heterogeneity was assessed using statistics, with subgroup analyses by age and country. Publication bias was evaluated using funnel plots. Meta-analysis was performed using CMA version 3.0 with statistical significance level less than 0.05. Out of 745 fount studies, 22 studies across 11 West Asian countries were included in the meta--analysis. The overall pooled prevalence of smokeless tobacco use was 16% (95% CI: 12%, 21%) with significant heterogeneity (=99.90%,  < 0.001). Age-specific analysis revealed a prevalence of 15% (95% CI: 12%, 18%) among adolescents and 18% (95% CI: 6%, 29%) among adults. Country-specific prevalence varied substantially, ranging from 6% in Iraq to 34% in Lebanon. Saudi Arabia demonstrated the most extreme variation (1%-86%), largely attributed to one outlier study. Funnel plot analysis suggested potential publication bias, though sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of pooled estimates. Smokeless tobacco use affects approximately one in six individuals across West Asian populations, with considerable geographic and methodological variation. The substantial heterogeneity observed emphasizes the need for country--specific tobacco control strategies and standardized surveillance methods.

Inherited salt-losing tubulopathies (SLT) are rare disorders caused by gene mutations that disrupt renal tubular ion transport. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying SLT pathogenesis remain unclear. This study aims to elucidate the functional genes and potential regulatory mechanisms associated with SLT.

Saliva is a complicated secretion of the oral cavity and is the first fluid to be exposed to the toxic components of tobacco products. Saliva undergoes structural and functional changes due to tobacco use throughout time. As a result, measurements of salivary flow rate (SFR) and pH were made in subjects with habit of smokeless, smoked, and combined forms of tobacco habits.

Tribal populations in India face multiple health challenges, including high tobacco use. However, national-level estimates specific to tribal communities are lacking. This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the prevalence of tobacco use among tribal populations in India, disaggregated by gender and type of tobacco product. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines, four databases, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science, were searched up to 31 January 2024. Studies reporting tobacco use among tribal populations in India were included. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model. Subgroup analyses were conducted by gender and tobacco type. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I-squared (I²) statistic. Publication bias was assessed using the deviation from ordinary least squares (OLS) regression line (DOI) plots and the Luis Furuya-Kanamori (LFK) index. Thirty-nine studies involving 56,883 tribal individuals were included. The pooled prevalence of tobacco use was 60% (95% confidence interval (CI): 49%-70%; I² = 99.6%). Among male individuals, prevalence was 66% (95% CI: 42%-83%; I² = 99.2%), and among female individuals, it was 42% (95% CI: 22%-66%; I² = 99.6%). The prevalence of smokeless tobacco use was 45% (95% CI: 30%-62%) versus 20% for smoked tobacco (95% CI: 14%-27%). Nine studies lacked separate data on smoked and smokeless forms. The LFK index score of 0 indicated no asymmetry in the DOI plot, suggesting an absence of publication bias among the included studies. The majority of studies demonstrated a low risk of selection bias (78.5%), whereas fewer studies showed a low risk of information bias (57.1%) and reporting bias (53.5%). Tobacco use among tribal populations in India is alarmingly high, especially among men and for smokeless products. These findings warrant urgent, culturally appropriate public health interventions.

Employees' green voice behavior (GVB), as a specific category of extra-role green behavior, plays a vital role in promoting a firm's sustainable development. However, its underlying mechanism has not been sufficiently explored. Drawing on social learning theory (SLT), this study proposes a research model that examines the indirect influence of environmentally-specific transformational leadership (ESTFL) on GVB via psychological empowerment (PE) and ecological reflexivity (ER) as well as the moderating role of person-supervisor value congruence (PSVC). To achieve the research goals, we conducted a two-wave online survey via the convenience sampling method to collect data from 530 employees and 106 direct supervisors working in the manufacturing, hospitality and service, energy production, construction, transportation, information and communication, and finance industries in China. Regression analyses and CFA based on SPSS and Mplus were employed to test and validate the research model. Our findings show that PE and ER both partially mediated the positive association between ESTFL and GVB. Moreover, PSVC moderated the mediating effects of ESTFL on GVB via PE and ER. This study advances empirical research regarding how leadership impacts GVB by revealing dual cognitive mechanisms and identifying its boundary condition. It also offers managerial implications for leaders and enterprises in China to promote employees' GVB and improve sustainable management.

Analyzing disease-linked genetic variants via expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) helps identify potential disease-causing genes. Previous research prioritized genes by integrating Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) results with tissue-level eQTLs. Recent studies have explored brain cell type-specific eQTLs, but a systematic analysis across multiple Alzheimer's disease (AD) genome-wide association study (GWAS) datasets or comparisons between tissue-level and cell type-specific effects remain limited. Here, we integrated brain cell type-level and bulk-level eQTL datasets with AD GWAS datasets to identify potential causal genes.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation accelerates skin damage and photoageing, leading to visible signs such as wrinkles, loss of elasticity and uneven pigmentation. UV radiation causes direct DNA damage, primarily through the formation of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) and 6-4 photoproducts (6-4PPs), which can lead to mutations and cellular dysfunction if not repaired. While natural defence mechanisms like melanin production and DNA repair pathways mitigate this damage, prolonged or excessive UV exposure can overwhelm these defences, resulting in cumulative skin damage. The melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) plays a key role in melanogenesis and also appears to play a role in DNA repair. Salt-inducible kinases (SIKs), critical enzymes in the MC1R pathway, are known to influence melanin production, but their role in DNA repair and photodamage remains unclear.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) in individuals diagnosed with open-angle glaucoma within the military pilot population and to examine its impact on intraocular pressure (IOP) regulation and aeromedical certification status.

Approximately one-third of global lip and oral cavity cancer (LOC) cases are linked to smokeless tobacco or areca nut (AN) consumption. Over the past 32 y, AN production has significantly increased, accompanied by rising international trade. This study explores the relationship between changes in AN production/import quantities and LOC incidence in regions where consumption is prevalent. LOC incidence rates were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease and GLOBOCAN databases, while AN production and import data were sourced from the Food and Agriculture Organization Corporate Statistical Database and Hainan province's statistical yearbook. Spearman's correlation analysis was used to evaluated the relationship between AN production or AN imports and LOC incidence rate in AN-producing/importing regions. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the trends of AN production, AN imports, and LOC incidence in AN-producing/importing regions. In 2021, the total AN production of 12 regions (Bangladesh, Bhutan, China mainland, Taiwan, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand) was 5.4 times that of 1990, with an average annual production of 1,177,926 tons. A strong positive correlation ( ≥ 0.8,  < 0.001) was observed between increased production and LOC incidence in Bangladesh, Bhutan, China mainland, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and the combined data for all 12 regions. Additionally, among the top 10 countries by average annual AN imports from 2012 to 2021, a positive correlation was observed between their average annual imports and the incidence of LOC in 2022. The findings highlight a positive correlation between large-scale AN production and a rising LOC incidence rate, and AN imports may be associated with a higher incidence of LOC. These results support the need for regulatory measures on AN similar to those used for tobacco to address this growing public health concern.

Adequate nutrition can mitigate side-effects and improve recovery for patients with locally advanced head-and-neck squamous cell cancer (LAHNSCC), while malnourishment can increase morbidity and mortality. We aimed to evaluate the baseline nutritional status of patients with LAHNSCC planned for curative chemoradiotherapy (CRT), the evolution of nutritional status during the course of CRT and to assess whether nutrition impacted their clinical outcomes.

Dietary habits are unique to geography and may exert crucial influence in the commencement of many diseases, including cancer. North-eastern region of India, exhibit unique food habits and are different from the rest of the country. This study investigates the association between dietary habits and site-specific cancer occurrence among patients registered with the North East Cancer Hospital and Research Institute (NECHRI) in 2022. A total of 511 cancer patients were initially accessed, of which 187 (81 female and 106 male patients) participated in the study by providing information about their dietary habits and addiction patterns to specific food beverages. The study employed multivariate linear regression analysis (MLRA) to correlate dietary habits with site-specific cancer incidence. One notable finding was the prevalence of raw betel nut consumption among female patients with cancers specific to female organs, such as cervical and ovarian cancers (21.4% for cervical cancer and 100% for ovarian cancer). Among the total cancer cases, 49.05% of male and 37.04% of female patients reported regular consumption of raw betel nut, indicating a potential association between betel nut consumption and cancer development. The MLRA also revealed a significant correlation between the regular consumption of smoked food and cancer incidence, affecting 31.13% of male and 25.93% of female patients with various types of cancer. Additionally, addiction to tobacco, smokeless tobacco, alcohol, and fermented alcohol showed a notable correlation with incidence of cancers in male, particularly in oral, esophageal, and alveolar. This is the first systematic study in north-east population of India to show the relationship between specific dietary habits and site-specific cancer occurrence among both male and female populations. The findings underscore the importance of right dietary habits and lifestyle modifications in cancer prevention strategies, particularly in regions where certain dietary habits are prevalent. Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these associations and to develop targeted prevention and intervention strategies.

Doctors are considered role model for society. People look up to them to follow good habits. Yet many doctors use tobacco. This study aims to determine the knowledge, attitude, and willingness among doctors to quit tobacco use.

Background The widespread use of smokeless tobacco, particularly in India, is a major public health concern, contributing to increased oral cancer cases. Tobacco pouch keratosis, an early sign of oral mucosal damage, is commonly observed in regular smokeless tobacco users. This study examines the impact of smokeless tobacco on salivary antioxidant systems, comparing individuals with and without tobacco pouch keratosis to healthy controls. Materials and methods A total of 63 participants were divided into three groups: smokeless tobacco users without oral lesions (group 1, n=23), users with tobacco pouch keratosis (group 2, n=20), and healthy controls (group 3, n=20). Salivary parameters, including flow rate, pH, and total antioxidant capacity (measured by the ferric reducing antioxidant power [FRAP] assay), were analyzed. A descriptive analysis was conducted for both continuous and categorical variables. For inferential statistics, the Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the duration and frequency of tobacco use. A one-way ANOVA, followed by Tukey's post-hoc test, was applied to compare the mean salivary flow rate and salivary pH levels. Spearman's correlation test was employed to assess the relationship between total antioxidant levels and various parameters. The level of statistical significance was set at < 0.05. Results The mean duration of tobacco use was 6.30 years in group 1 and 18.10 years in group 2 (p=0.001). The mean salivary flow rates were 0.272 ± 0.137 mL/min (group 1), 0.159 ± 0.094 mL/min (group 2), and 0.277 ± 0.192 mL/min (group 3), with a p-value of 0.02. The mean pH levels were 6.999 ± 0.322 (group 1), 6.650 ± 0.355 (group 2), and 6.943 ± 0.360 (group 3), with a value of 0.004. Group 3 had significantly higher total salivary antioxidant levels (=0.001). Conclusions Smokeless tobacco use, particularly in individuals with tobacco pouch keratosis, is associated with reduced salivary flow rate, lower (more acidic) pH, and decreased total antioxidant levels. There is a strong negative correlation between salivary antioxidant levels and the duration and frequency of smokeless tobacco use.

India's 2017 Goods and Services Tax (GST) reform standardised tax rates nationwide, replacing varying state-level value-added taxes (VAT) with a tiered GST structure that applied the highest 28% rate on tobacco products. This shift altered the overall tax burden on tobacco, with some states experiencing increases or decreases based on their pre-GST VAT rates.

The study aims to assess the prevalence of tobacco use in school-going children.

There is supporting evidence on the use of nortriptyline in smoking; however, its effectiveness in smokeless tobacco cessation has not been studied.

India bears the highest global burden of oral cancer, with over 83,400 cases reported in 2022. The widespread use of smokeless tobacco and areca nut, particularly in rural and underserved communities, continues to drive this public health crisis. Despite government regulations and awareness campaigns, tobacco consumption remains high due to cultural acceptance, affordability, and accessibility of products like gutkha and khaini. This review examines the role of celebrity endorsements in tobacco cessation efforts, assessing their influence on public perception and behavior. Bollywood actors and sports icons, who hold immense cultural influence in India, have been leveraged in health campaigns to promote tobacco-free lifestyles. While some celebrity-driven initiatives have successfully raised awareness, surrogate marketing remains a critical challenge. Many celebrities indirectly endorse harmful products like pan masala and mouth fresheners, undermining tobacco control efforts. To counter this, stricter policies are needed to regulate celebrity endorsements, ensuring alignment with public health goals. This review highlights key strategies for maximizing the impact of celebrity-led health campaigns while minimizing the risks posed by surrogate marketing. By fostering sustained celebrity engagement and implementing robust policy measures, India can take significant steps toward reducing smokeless tobacco use and preventing oral cancer.

The cardiovascular profile and incidence of oral submucous fibrosis among 296 individuals with a history of tobacco chewing exceeding 15 years is of interest. Participants underwent comprehensive examinations, including HbA1c, lipid profile, ECG and oral assessments. Sinus bradycardia was observed in 16% of cases, with a significant correlation to the duration of tobacco use. Oral submucous fibrosis was found in 22.29% of subjects, alongside other notable oral lesions. The findings highlight the substantial cardiovascular and oral health risks associated with prolonged smokeless tobacco consumption.

Approximately 21% of adults in India use smokeless tobacco and over half use khaini, a tobacco-lime mixture. Khaini is available in a variety of pack shapes and sizes, which can affect health warning label (HWL) size and placement. This study explored consumer perceptions of existing khaini packs and two proposed standard shape/size khaini packs across dimensions of HWL noticeability and harm perceptions.

Increasing incidences of non-communicable diseases globally present a major public health challenge, with tobacco, alcohol, and ultra processed food products high in fat, sugar, and salt (HFSS) contributing significantly to this epidemic. Despite regulatory efforts, loopholes persist, allowing companies to promote such products through surrogate advertisements and new media platforms. This study investigates advertisements aired during the Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 on the Over-the-Top (OTT) platform.

Tobacco use is a significant public health concern in rural India. This case study was conducted in a village of the Jodhpur district in Rajasthan, India. The high prevalence and patterns of tobacco use among the villagers was identified by a situational analysis in the OPD and through household visits, shopkeeper surveys, focus group discussion with health workers, and by engaging with community members, local leaders, and health workers. A general lack of adherence to Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) rules in public places, schools, and points of sale, as well as a gap in awareness regarding the harmful effects of tobacco were found. Seven out of 10 patients attending the OPD and more than half of the village population used tobacco. Smokeless tobacco products like , , and khaini were widely used by everyone, while older men preferred smoking forms. Children as young as 10 years old used tobacco, often encouraged by parents who believed it would suppress hunger. These findings led to the initial focus being given to comprehensive awareness through health education sessions, followed by a multistakeholder approach that engaged local leaders, police, shopkeepers, teachers, and other relevant stakeholders. Activities were conducted at health facility, administrative, and community levels. These strategies focused on awareness activities, more stringent implementation of COTPA, cessation of public display of tobacco products in shops, and the monthly celebration of 'No Tobacco Day'. The interventions at school led to a significant improvement in the Tobacco-Free Educational Institution (ToFEI) score, from 9 pre-intervention to 90 post-intervention. The outcomes underscore that using these strategies with appropriate adaptations can be effective in tobacco control across diverse settings.

With constrained funding and increasing demand, the pressures on health and care services globally continue to grow. Given the challenges faced, it is imperative that services and interventions demonstrate cost-effectiveness, as well as patient/service-user and societal benefits, to maximize impact. Research has started to explore the cost-effectiveness of speech and language therapy (SLT) interventions, but little is known about this body of evidence overall. Given the increasing demand for economic information by different decision-makers, an overall understanding of the current evidence base is needed. Such an evaluation should map and assess the current evidence to identify key gaps, areas of strength, and recommendations for future economic evaluations of SLT.

Background A joint tuberculosis-tobacco collaborative was launched in India in 2017 to reduce the addictive habit of tobacco use among patients with tuberculosis (TB). We aimed to estimate the prevalence and predictors of smokeless tobacco use and its awareness among patients with pulmonary TB in Bhavnagar city, Gujarat, India. Methods We did a cross-sectional study among 258 randomly selected drug-sensitive pulmonary TB patients registered at the District TB Centre in Bhavnagar from April to October 2019. The Global Adult Tobacco Survey questionnaire was used for data collection. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the predictors of smokeless tobacco use. Results Among the 258 patients, 73% were male, 66% were married, 40% traveled for their occupation, 62% had a nuclear family, and 46% were illiterate. More than half (52%) the patients used smokeless tobacco: 44% were daily users and 8% were occasional users. On multivariable logistic regression, male gender (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 5 [95% confidence interval (CI) 2-11]), occupation requiring travel (aOR: 4 [95% CI: 2-7]), monthly income of ₹3001-6000 (aOR: 0.2 [95% CI: 0.1-0.6]), ₹9000-12 000 (aOR: 0.3 [95% CI: 0.1-0.9]) and above ₹12 000 (aOR: 0.3 [95% CI: 0.1-0.8]) were significant predictors of smokeless tobacco use. Almost all (98%) of the participants were aware of the harmful effects of smokeless tobacco on health. Conclusion More than half the patients with pulmonary TB used smokeless tobacco. The TB-tobacco collaborative framework needs to be strengthened with brief counselling interventions for patients with TB using smokeless tobacco for collateral benefits in the control of TB in India.

Gutka, a form of smokeless tobacco, is widely consumed and has been associated with adverse oral health effects, including changes in the oral microbiome. and are prominent oral pathogens linked to periodontal diseases and oral carcinogenesis. The study aims to understand the microbial profile of gutka users by analysing salivary samples.

What is this summary about? This is a summary of a publication about the PHOTON study, which was published in . (DME) is a serious and common complication of diabetes, with an estimated global prevalence of 5.5% in people with diabetes.In DME, leaky blood vessels lead to the swelling (or ) of the macula (the area of the retina at the back of the eye that is responsible for sharp vision), which can then lead to blurred vision and vision loss. Over-production of a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a main cause of these leaky blood vessels.To directly address the underlying problem, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) medicine, given as an injection into the eye, can block the VEGF causing the leaky blood vessels and .○ However, frequent eye injections are often required to maintain good vision and many people find it difficult to keep up with the visits and injections. is an anti-VEGF medicine that is approved for the treatment of DME.○ It is recommended that people with DME receive injections of 2 mg every 4-8 weeks after 5 initial monthly injections.The PHOTON study was carried out to determine if a higher, 8-mg dose of , given every 12 or 16 weeks after 3 initial monthly injections, could provide the same treatment benefits as 2 mg, given every 8 weeks after 5 initial monthly injections. What were the results? During the first year (or at 48 weeks) of the study, participants who received 8 mg every 12 or 16 weeks following 3 initial monthly injections had similar improvements in vision when compared to those treated with 2 mg every 8 weeks following 5 initial monthly injections with fewer injections.○ Most participants who received 8 mg and completed the study through 48 weeks kept their 12- or 16-week injection schedules without needing to have more frequent injections.○ Disease severity, measured by the Retinopathy Severity Scale score, improved by at least 2 levels at week 48 in 27% of participants who received 2 mg every 8 weeks, 29% of participants who received 8 mg every 12 weeks, and 20% of participants who received 8 mg every 16 weeks.○ Participants who received 8 mg had similar decreases in swelling of the as measured by central retinal thickness compared to those treated with 2 mg at week 48, even though fewer injections were received with 8 mg.Adverse events in participants treated with 8 mg were also similar to those treated with 2 mg. What do the results mean? Often, patients with DME may find it difficult to keep up with the routine medical appointments that are required to maintain their vision.Findings showed that 8 mg provided a similar level of improvement in vision to 2 mg in people with DME but with fewer injections after 1 year of treatment.Treatment with 8 mg may help to improve vision in these patients with fewer injections.

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with consumption of smokeless tobacco (SLT) at Nikki, northern Benin.

Tobacco use is the largest preventable risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Moreover, tobacco use interferes with glycaemic control, and there is a proven link between smoking and diabetes complications.

Irular and Narikuravars, are the oldest Dravidian ethnic group and a semi-nomadic community people located in Tamil Nadu. Both the indigenous groups are relegated to the margins of society and face limited access to oral health care. Thus, we aimed to assess the normative need by assessing their oral health status and risks of Narikuravar and Irular tribes residing in Villupuram District, Tamil Nadu.