The Health Edit

Know your body. Notice the changes. Act early. Breast cancer does not always cause pain or obvious symptoms. Sometimes, the first sign is a subtle change that may be easy to overlook or dismiss. That is why knowing the warning signs matters. Know What Is Normal for You Breasts naturally change throughout life due to hormonal cycles, pregnancy, age and...

Have you ever wondered why you can be surrounded by people and still feel alone? Loneliness is not simply about being alone. It is the feeling of being disconnected, unseen, or lacking the meaningful relationships and sense of belonging we need. While loneliness is a normal human experience from time to time, persistent loneliness can affect both mental and physical...

Everyday Changes That Actually Work Heart disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, yet a large share of that risk is shaped daily by what people eat, how they move, sleep, and manage stress. Most cardiovascular events are preventable through sustained habits, not dramatic overhauls. Here's what the evidence actually supports and what to leave behind. Build Meals Around...

When a child is diagnosed with cancer, nutrition often becomes an unexpected challenge. Treatment can affect appetite, taste, digestion, and energy levels, making it difficult for children to eat the foods they once enjoyed. Yet good nutrition plays an important role in helping children tolerate treatment, fight infections, and recover more effectively. Why Nutrition Matters Cancer treatment places additional stress...

Fifteen feet. That's roughly the distance from a classroom door to a desk near the front. For a child returning after months of chemotherapy, a long hospital stay, or an illness that took their hair along with it, these fifteen feet can feel more like a daunting challenge than a simple walk. School counselors who help children re-enter after extended...

Before a person walks again after amputation, they have to learn something more basic first: how to stand. Not sprint, not stride, simply just to stand, unaided, on a body that no longer distributes its weight the way it used to. Recovery is often described as a simple checklist, heal, fit the prosthesis, walk, but in practice it's a gradual,...

There is a particular kind of tiredness that comes from loving someone through illness. It does not announce itself, rather, it builds slowly; in the space between medication schedules and school runs, between hospital visits and the ordinary demands of keeping a household running. Parents of children with chronic illnesses carry this weight, often belittling their experience. But there is...

Your child may look perfectly healthy today, but some of the most dangerous childhood diseases arrive without warning. A fever that seems harmless can quickly become pneumonia. A cough can develop into whooping cough. An infection that could have been prevented may lead to lifelong disability, or even prove fatal. The good news? Many of these illnesses are preventable. Timely...

Heart disease is often thought of as something that develops later in life. In reality, the foundations of heart health are built through the small choices we make every day. The good news? You don't need drastic diets or intense workout routines to protect your heart. Consistent, healthy habits practised over time can make a meaningful difference in lowering the...

When someone is diagnosed with a long-term illness, it's not just their life that changes. The diagnosis often reshapes the daily routines, emotions, and responsibilities of everyone around them. Family members and caregivers frequently become the quiet pillars of support—helping with medical appointments, managing medications, offering emotional reassurance, and balancing countless responsibilities behind the scenes. While caring for a loved...

Every breath you take depends on healthy lungs; yet lung disease, including lung cancer, remains one of the leading causes of illness and death worldwide. The encouraging news is that a large share of lung disease risk is preventable. Small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in protecting your respiratory health for years to come. Quit Smoking &...

The Smoke That Affects More Than One Person When we think about smoking, we often picture the person holding the cigarette. Rarely do we think about the people sitting beside them. A child curled up on the sofa. A spouse preparing dinner. Elderly parents sharing the same living space. Every cigarette smoked indoors—or even nearby—releases thousands of harmful chemicals into...

Every year on July 28th, the world marks World Hepatitis Day. And every year, an estimated 300 million people continue living with a hepatitis infection they don't know they have. That's not a coincidence. It's the nature of the disease. Hepatitis Has No Early Warning Signs Hepatitis B and C, the two strains responsible for the most serious long-term harm,...

Pakistan carries one of the highest burdens of Hepatitis C in the world. For millions of Pakistanis, the disease progresses quietly - undetected, untreated, and compounded by the stigma that surrounds it. Since 2016, Indus Hospital & Health Network's Hepatitis Control Program has worked to change that, offering free screening, diagnosis, and treatment to patients across the country. This year,...

School holidays bring a welcome change of pace. Bedtimes become more flexible, routines relax, and children finally have time to play, explore, and unwind. But while the break is exciting, it can also lead to irregular eating habits that affect a child's energy, mood, and overall health. Without the structure of school days, children may snack more often, skip meals,...

When summer temperatures soar, feeling a bit sluggish is completely normal. Most of us blame the heat, grab an iced coffee or a water bottle, and push through. However, a triad of common summer complaints, fatigue, dizziness, and headaches, can easily cross the line from standard seasonal discomfort into a medical emergency. Knowing how to distinguish a mild case of...

The Ultimate Guide to Intermittent Fasting: Health Benefits and How to Start Right In recent years, intermittent fasting (IF) has shifted from a fitness trend to a globally recognised lifestyle. Intermittent fasting focuses entirely on your eating schedule. Consequently, you allow your body to step away from constant digestion and enter a highly efficient state of cellular repair and fat...

Men's Mental Health: Breaking the Stigma and Prioritising Well-Being Mental health is an essential part of overall well-being, yet conversations around men's mental health often remain limited. While awareness has grown in recent years, many men continue to struggle in silence due to societal expectations, stigma, and misconceptions about emotional vulnerability. Traditional beliefs that associate masculinity with toughness, self-reliance, and...

As Men's Health Week shines a spotlight on the importance of preventive care and healthy living, it's worth examining some of the common misconceptions that can quietly affect long-term health. Many men juggle demanding careers, family responsibilities, and busy schedules, often placing their own well-being at the bottom of the priority list. Over time, however, small health decisions can have...

High blood pressure, medically known as Hypertension, is a common but serious condition where blood flows through the arteries with consistently higher-than-normal force. Over time, this increased pressure can damage blood vessels and strain the heart, raising the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. Because it usually develops without noticeable symptoms, hypertension is often called a “silent killer.”...

Eid celebrations often involve preparing, storing, and sharing large quantities of fresh meat, making meat hygiene and food safety during Eid more important than ever. Whether you're handling meat at home or distributing it within your community, following proper hygiene practices is essential to prevent contamination and reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Improper handling of raw meat can lead...

Menstrual health is an essential part of women’s overall well-being, yet it is often not discussed openly. With the right knowledge and simple daily habits, managing this natural monthly process can be comfortable, safe, and stress-free. This guide highlights practical hygiene practices, common misconceptions, and supportive self-care tips to help women maintain health and confidence during their cycle. Why Menstrual...

Motherhood is a role filled with love, responsibility, and constant movement. Between caring for family, managing the home, and often balancing professional commitments, many mothers place their own wellbeing last. This Mother's Day is a reminder that caring for yourself is not a luxury; it is essential. A balanced lifestyle does not require drastic changes. It is built through small,...

Ovaries are the female reproductive organs responsible for producing an egg each month in women of child-bearing age. Ovarian Cancer refers to the abnormal, uncontrolled growth and division of cells in and around the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or peritoneum, leading to the formation of a tumour. It is one of the more serious forms of gynecologic cancer, often progressing silently...

As we move just past World Malaria Day (April 25), the global spotlight briefly returns to a disease that still affects hundreds of millions of people each year. For most travellers from North America, Europe, Australia, and parts of the Middle East, it may feel distant—but for those heading into tropical and subtropical regions, it remains a very real and...

World Haemophilia Day: Raising Awareness for a Rare Blood Disorder Observed every year on April 17, World Haemophilia Day is dedicated to increasing global awareness of haemophilia and other inherited bleeding disorders. The day emphasises early diagnosis, equitable access to treatment, and improved quality of life for individuals living with these conditions. What is Haemophilia? Haemophilia is a rare genetic...

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, coordination, and, over time, other aspects of daily life. While it is often associated with older adults, early symptoms can appear subtly and may go unnoticed.  Understanding the early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and seeking timely care can significantly improve quality of life and slow disease progression. What is Parkinson’s...

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. Recognising the early signs of autism is crucial, as early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve a child’s development and quality of life. What is Autism Spectrum Disorder? Autism is a spectrum, meaning it affects each child differently. Some children may have mild...

In many cases, illness does not begin with pain; it begins quietly. Conditions develop over time, often without visible symptoms, until they reach a stage where treatment becomes more complex, costly, and uncertain. This is where regular health screenings become not just important, but essential. What Are Regular Screenings? Health screenings are routine tests and check-ups that help detect potential...

Ramadan brings structure, discipline, and spiritual clarity. Then Eid arrives: full of joy, celebration, and indulgence. But once it’s over, many people feel a dip. The routine fades, and returning to “normal life” can feel harder than expected. That’s where a post-Ramadan reset matters, not to keep up the same intensity, but to hold onto what truly mattered. Keep What...

High blood pressure (BP), also known as hypertension, is one of the most common lifestyle-related health conditions worldwide. It increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. While medications are often necessary, lifestyle changes including fasting, can play a powerful supportive role in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. How Fasting Supports Blood Pressure Control1. Promotes Weight Loss Excess...

Ramadan is a time of reflection, self-discipline, and spiritual growth—but it also brings changes to our daily routines and eating habits. After iftar, the body needs gentle care to support digestion, maintain energy, and promote overall health. Incorporating walking and light exercise post-iftar can improve digestion, support cardiovascular health, and enhance well-being—without interfering with your fasting schedule. This health edit...

Diabetes management is not only about restricting sugar, it is about choosing foods that support the body’s natural balance. Interestingly, many foods now recommended by modern medical science for blood sugar control are also among those mentioned in the Holy Quran, reflecting a timeless connection between nourishment, moderation, and health. For people living with diabetes or those hoping to prevent...

Foods That Help You Stay Energized Longer Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection and discipline, but for patients living with medical conditions, fasting requires thoughtful preparation. Doctors often emphasise that safer fasting is strongly connected to smarter food choices. The right foods can help maintain hydration, stabilise energy levels, and reduce health risks during long fasting hours. Instead of...

Ramadan is a time of spiritual renewal, self-discipline, and gratitude. As hearts and minds prepare for the sacred month and fasting from dawn till dusk, caring for the body is an important part of the journey. Preparing the body ahead of Ramadan can ease the transition into fasting, reduce fatigue and discomfort, and allow individuals to improve their spiritual focus....

Back, neck, and knee pain are among the most common physical complaints worldwide, often linked to prolonged sitting, poor posture, past injuries, or reduced physical activity. While professional assessment is essential for persistent or severe pain, guided physical therapy exercises at home can support recovery for many individuals. This health edit shares a list of commonly recommended physical therapy exercises...

The Quiet Role of Sleep, Nutrition, and Routine Recovery after physical illness or injury is rarely a single moment. It unfolds slowly — in the days after discharge, between physiotherapy sessions, and in the habits that support the body as it heals. Sleep, nutrition, and routine play a quiet but powerful role in shaping physical recovery. THE THREE PILLARS OF...

Staying active is essential for long-term health, but without the right habits, exercise can quickly lead to strain, pain, or long-term injury. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, returning to fitness after rehab, or simply trying to stay pain-free, injury prevention starts with daily wellness choices. Physical therapists and sports medicine specialists agree: small, consistent actions, not intense workouts, are...

Mobility is more than just the ability to walk, it's the freedom to live independently, stay connected, and enjoy everyday moments without discomfort or fear. As we age, maintaining mobility becomes less about intense workouts and more about consistent, mindful choices that support the body over time.  The good news? Small, everyday habits can make a lasting difference. You don’t...

As 2025 wraps up, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect, not just on goals and routines, but on your health. A yearly health check-in isn’t about drastic changes or unrealistic resolutions. It’s about small, sustainable improvements that help you feel stronger, more energized, and more in control of your well-being. This guide will help you assess key areas...

When winter arrives, most of us instinctively reach for warm clothes, not water bottles. The cold tricks us into believing we’re less thirsty, and before we know it, hours have passed with barely a sip of water. While dehydration is often associated with scorching summers, winter dehydration is far more common, and far more harmful, than many realize.  Here’s why...

Feeling low during the colder months is more common than many people realise. Shorter days, less sunlight, and changes in daily routine can all affect how we feel emotionally. If you’ve noticed shifts in your mood, energy, or motivation during winter, this guide explains why it happens — and how to tell when it may be time to seek extra...

Winter can be a difficult season for people living with asthma. Cold air, seasonal viruses, and indoor allergens often trigger flare-ups, making breathing harder than usual. If you’ve ever wondered why asthma symptoms worsen in winter or how to manage them, this guide breaks down the causes — and what you can do to stay in control! Why Asthma Gets...

Understanding the basics this World AIDS Day When we talk about HIV and AIDS, the two terms are often used interchangeably — and that confusion can fuel unnecessary fear. Understanding the difference is not just a matter of medical clarity; it reduces stigma, encourages early testing, and ultimately saves lives! HIV: A Treatable Virus HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a...

A diabetes diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to mean giving up the foods you love or living in constant restriction. In fact, many people manage diabetes successfully with a few mindful adjustments to their lifestyle. It’s about balance, not perfection, and every small change counts! Smart Eating, Simple Swaps Managing diabetes starts with creating balanced meals. Begin...

Diabetes doesn’t always arrive with clear warnings. It often starts quietly, with small changes that are easy to brush off as tiredness, stress, or simply “getting older.” But your body has a way of speaking to you, and when it comes to diabetes, early awareness can make all the difference. Here are 5 subtle signs your body may be sending,...

Anger is a natural human emotion—an instinctive response to perceived injustice, threat, or frustration. However, when left unchecked, it can spiral into aggression, strained relationships, and even physical illness. Learning to manage anger is not about suppressing it, but about understanding, expressing, and channeling it constructively. Understanding Anger Anger often masks deeper emotions such as fear, hurt, or disappointment. Recognizing...

When life feels overwhelming, your body’s first responder isn’t caffeine or comfort food, it’s your breath. Deep, intentional breathing activates the body’s natural relaxation system, slows racing thoughts, and brings your focus back to the present moment. The Science Behind Deep-Breathing When stressed, your nervous system flips into “fight or flight.” Your breathing quickens, heart rate spikes, and muscles tense,...

We’re all guilty of spending way too much time on our phones, scrolling through reels, news, and endless updates. That urge to scroll endlessly isn’t just boredom, it’s become a near-automatic reflex. What starts as a quick peek often spirals into 30+ minutes of mindless consumption. It feels harmless, even productive. But behind every swipe is a carefully designed feedback...