Potential Risks Linked to Screen Exposure

The review, published by the Action on Digital Device Immersive Conditions Team, is noted to be the most detailed investigation regarding screen usage among infants to date. While the study does not establish a direct causal relationship between screen use and developmental disorders, it compiles evidence suggesting that these digital devices may interfere with various aspects of child development. Key concerns identified in the review include delayed language skills, compromised parent-child bonding, disrupted sleep patterns, decreased opportunities for physical activity, eye health issues, and an increased risk of childhood obesity.

Research indicates that reliance on screens for comfort may detract from emotional bonding with caregivers, an essential component in early development. The experts involved in the study claim that screening should not be introduced intentionally to children under two years of age, as the lack of meaningful benefits has become increasingly clear.

Rafe Clayton, a senior lecturer in media and communication at the University of Leeds and one of the study’s lead researchers, pointed out that parents may inadvertently cultivate unhealthy habits regarding screen use. He noted a significant lack of guidance available to parents on managing their screen time, thus complicating the issue further. The researchers are calling for a reevaluation of current guidelines that permit limited screen activity, as these recommendations may mislead parents into believing that such practices are harmless.

Recommendations for Policymakers and Parents

Given the findings, the research team is urging policymakers to implement risk assessments relating to screen time for infants and to provide clearer guidance for families. The first 1,001 days of a child’s life have been recognised as a critical development window, emphasising the need for enhanced support for parents rather than assigning blame for potential development issues.

The idea is to safeguard children’s early cognitive and emotional development amid an increasingly digital landscape. Experts recommend that parents focus on more interactive forms of engagement with their children that foster emotional connections and promote healthy development.

As the debate over digital device usage in young children continues, this comprehensive review serves as a vital contribution to understanding the implications of screen exposure in early childhood. The findings stress the importance of developing strategies that prioritise children’s developmental health in a screen-dominated world.

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कंपनियों की क्या है तैयारी?

बेवरेजेज कंपनियां इस संकट से निपटने के लिए नए उपाय कर रही हैं। कई ब्रांड पुराने रिसाइकिल किए हुए कैन्स का इस्तेमाल करने की योजना बना रहे हैं। इसके अलावा, कुछ कंपनियां स्थानीय स्तर पर कैन्स के उत्पादन को बढ़ाने के लिए नए करार भी कर रही हैं। इन प्रयासों से माना जा रहा है कि गर्मियों की ऊष्मा में उपभोक्ताओं को जरूरत का सामान मिल सकेगा।

क्या है कैन की कमी के पीछे का कारण?

कैन की कमी का मुख्य कारण उत्पादन में बाधा और कच्चे माल की बढ़ती लागत है। पिछले कुछ महीनों में एलुमिनियम की कीमतों में तेजी आई है। इसके साथ ही, सर्विस सेक्टर में रोजगार की कमी भी समस्या को बढ़ा रही है। इसका असर सीधे तौर पर कोल्ड ड्रिंक्स और बीयर की सप्लाई पर पड़ा है, जिससे ग्राहक निराश हो रहे हैं।

उपभोक्ताओं पर कैन की कमी का असर

जैसे-जैसे गर्मी बढ़ रही है, लोगों की ठंडे पेय की मांग में वृद्धि हो रही है। लेकिन कैन की कमी के चलते कई लोग अपने पसंदीदा ब्रांड की कोल्ड ड्रिंक्स नहीं खरीद पा रहे हैं। यह स्थिति न केवल उपभोक्ताओं के लिए समस्या है, बल्कि कंपनियों के लिए भी आर्थिक दृष्टिकोण से चिंताजनक साबित हो रही है।

क्या होगा आगामी समय में?

कमियों के बावजूद, कंपनियों का प्रयास है कि वे इस समस्या से जल्दी ही पार पा सकें। कुछ विश्लेषकों का मानना है कि अगर हालात यथावत रहे, तो आने वाले महीनों में उपभोक्ताओं को पेय पदार्थों की किल्लत का सामना करना पड़ सकता है। इससे उत्पादों की कीमतें भी प्रभावित हो सकती हैं।

कुल मिलाकर स्थिति

इस गर्मी में जब लोग ठंडा पेय खोज रहे हैं, कंपनियों की कैन की कमी बड़ी चुनौती बन गई है। जबकि कंपनियां इस समस्या का हल निकालने के प्रयास कर रही हैं, ग्राहकों को यह देखना होगा कि उन्हें अपने पसंदीदा ब्रांड्स कब तक उपलब्ध होंगे। जैसे जैसे गर्मी की चढ़ाई होती है, कैन की समस्या को सुलझाना जरूरी होगा।

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Diabetes is defined as a chronic metabolic condition that affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels due to insufficient insulin production or insulin resistance. Prediabetes is a critical stage that not only indicates a risk of developing diabetes but also heightens the chances of severe cardiovascular issues, such as heart attacks and strokes.

In response to this escalating health crisis, the Indian government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has enacted policies to incorporate childhood diabetes management into the public health framework. The updated Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK 2.0) now provides a standardised approach for diagnosing and treating youth with diabetes, representing a substantial shift in public health strategy.

Adverse Impact of Modern Lifestyle Choices

The increasing prevalence of diabetes among children is predominantly attributed to lifestyle changes characterised by sedentary behaviour, excessive screen time, the consumption of processed foods, and reduced physical activity levels. This shift has coincided with a notable rise in obesity rates, which is one of the most significant predictors of type 2 diabetes.

The World Obesity Federation reports that by 2025, an estimated 14.9 million Indian children aged five to nine and over 26.4 million adolescents will be classified as overweight or obese, positioning India among the nations with the highest childhood obesity rates. As a result, type 2 diabetes, once primarily an adult condition, is now increasingly diagnosed in younger populations.

Dr V Mohan, a noted diabetologist, has observed a worrying trend where clinical signs typically associated with diabetes in adults are now manifesting in children and adolescents. He indicates that it is common for teenagers, and even children as young as seven or eight, to present with symptoms that were once exclusive to adults, marking a concerning development for public health.

Understanding the Diversity of Childhood Diabetes

Childhood diabetes is not a singular illness but encompasses a range of disorders with different aetiologies and treatment protocols. Neonatal diabetes, for example, is a rare form that presents within the first six months of life due to genetic mutations, and while it often requires insulin management, many cases can transition to oral medications.

Type 1 diabetes, which is typically diagnosed in children, is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells, making immediate treatment essential to prevent life-threatening complications. Lifelong insulin therapy becomes necessary, affecting an estimated 3 lakh children in India.

Type 2 diabetes, conversely, develops more gradually and is closely linked to obesity and lifestyle. Diagnoses are often made during puberty when symptoms such as weight gain and hormonal imbalances become apparent. Addressing these issues early is crucial in preventing future complications associated with prolonged high blood sugar levels.

Long-Term Implications and Treatment Gaps

The early onset of diabetes carries significant long-term health risks. Children diagnosed with diabetes face a greater chance of developing complications related to the condition due to prolonged exposure to high blood sugar levels. Dr Anuradha Khadilkar, a pediatric endocrinologist, emphasises that children may experience various health problems later in life, including cardiovascular diseases and kidney damage.

Treatment regimens for childhood diabetes vary considerably. While neonatal diabetes may require tailored interventions based on genetic findings, type 1 diabetes demands a rigorous management approach, including free insulin provision from the government to alleviate financial burdens on families. However, type 2 diabetes management relies heavily on lifestyle modifications alongside potential medication, though not every drug is validated for use in individuals under 18.

Experts advocate that the new health framework necessitates efficient screening methodologies, highlighting a strategy focused on at-risk populations rather than universal testing. A targeted approach prioritising children with obesity and familial history is likely to prove more effective in identifying cases early.

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Historically, childhood diabetes was often identified late, usually only after serious complications had arisen. The newly established guidelines recommend routine screening for children aged from newborn up to 18 years, utilising schools, Anganwadi centres, and community health networks for effective outreach and early diagnosis.

The core message of the guidelines emphasises the importance of early detection, advocating that caregivers should actively seek signs of diabetes rather than waiting for severe symptoms to manifest. This proactive approach aims to bridge the gap between initial concerns and final diagnosis, expediting the referral process to necessary healthcare facilities.

Enhanced Support for Families

Following diagnosis, the guidelines outline significant support for families, recognising that diabetes management is a long-term commitment. For many families, particularly those managing Type 1 diabetes, the financial and emotional demands can be substantial. To mitigate these challenges, the government plans to provide a comprehensive package of free services at public hospitals, which includes insulin, glucometers, and routine follow-ups.

Moreover, the approach encourages a well-coordinated pathway for care that starts with community health workers and extends through district hospitals to specialised medical centres. This structured system aims to ensure that children receive consistent and continuous care, reducing the risk of them falling through the cracks after diagnosis.

A key aspect of the guidelines is the empowerment of families. Parents and caregivers will receive training on administering insulin, monitoring blood sugar levels, and managing emergencies caused by fluctuations in glucose levels. The initiative acknowledges that much of diabetes management occurs at home, thus equipping families with necessary skills is essential for effective care.

Wider Screening and Holistic Approaches

The updated Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK 2.0) underlines a broader perspective on child health beyond traditional focus areas. While previously centred on congenital defects, diseases, deficiencies, and developmental delays, the programme now encompasses emerging health issues, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and mental health concerns.

Screening efforts will continue to be integrated in environments where children typically gather, such as schools and Anganwadi centres, using mobile health teams. This expansion will facilitate earlier identification of children who may exhibit signs of chronic conditions, contributing to timely intervention and care.

Historically, families faced challenges after health issues were identified, often lacking structured follow-up. The RBSK 2.0 aims to remedy this by establishing clearer referral pathways and incorporating tracking systems. This will streamline the transition from screening to treatment, utilising digital health cards and real-time monitoring to enhance follow-up efforts.

The new programme is poised to foster improvements in childhood health management, recognising the critical nature of early detection and continuous care, especially for conditions like diabetes where timely intervention can significantly alter health outcomes. The alignment of schools, health services, and community resources represents a substantial step forward in child health initiatives across India.

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In particular, the Indian Council of Medical Research’s National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research (ICMR-NCDIR) reported that childhood cancers constituted approximately three to five per cent of all cancers in India in 2022. Each year, the nation witnesses around 50,000 to 60,000 new cases among children aged 0 to 14 years, positioning India as one of the countries with the highest burden of childhood cancer globally.

Globally, there were 377,000 new cases of childhood cancer and 144,000 deaths reported in 2023, according to the same study. These figures highlight the urgent need for enhanced awareness and improved healthcare measures to address this growing issue in India.

Challenges in Detection and Treatment

Among the various forms of childhood cancers, leukaemias, commonly known as blood cancers, are the most prevalent in India, followed by lymphomas and central nervous system tumours. Together, they account for a significant portion of paediatric cancer cases. Incidence rates tend to vary by region, with urban areas like Delhi reporting higher figures, attributed to more effective detection and reporting mechanisms.

Experts suggest that the actual number of cases could be higher due to many factors, including inadequate cancer registration and limited access to diagnostic services, particularly in rural and underserved communities. This often leads to late diagnoses, hindering treatment effectiveness. An oncologist from the Delhi State Cancer Institute noted that symptoms of childhood cancers, such as fatigue or unexplained weight loss, can resemble common illnesses, complicating early detection.

The ICMR’s factsheet from 2022 indicates that many children arrive at specialised cancer facilities only in advanced disease stages, complicating treatment options and reducing chances of recovery. Access to paediatric oncology services heavily favours urban centres, necessitating families from smaller towns or rural regions to undertake long journeys. This geographical disparity exacerbates treatment delays, particularly for economically disadvantaged families.

Financial considerations also present significant barriers. Even with subsidised treatments, ancillary expenses such as travel, accommodation, and lost wages can pose challenges. Consequently, treatment abandonment remains a serious issue, adversely impacting survival rates.

Disparities in Survival Rates

While the global survival rate for childhood cancers exceeds 80 per cent in high-income nations, outcomes in India are improving but remain inconsistent. The ICMR report emphasises that survival rates can differ greatly based on factors such as types of cancer, stages at diagnosis, and treatment facilities. Leading centres in India have documented survival rates similar to those in developed countries for specific cancers, notably acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

However, these positive outcomes are not uniformly representative across the nation, revealing systemic inequalities. Children treated in urban centres characterised by comprehensive resources and multidisciplinary teams generally have better prognoses than those receiving care in resource-poor environments.

Moreover, improving survival rates has introduced new concerns, particularly regarding long-term follow-up care for survivors. Issues related to late effects of treatment—including the risk of secondary cancers and developmental challenges—are not adequately addressed within India’s current healthcare framework. The ICMR report advocates for a dedicated focus on paediatric cancers, highlighting the necessity for specialised facilities, trained personnel, and robust referral networks alongside an expansion of population-based cancer registries to enhance data collection and reliability.

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While breast milk offers emotional security and certain immune benefits, by age three, its primary role transitions from nutritional support to providing comfort. At this stage, children are expected to consume a nutritious diet that includes a variety of foods such as cereals, pulses, vegetables, fruits, dairy, and proteins.

Nutritional Needs of Three-Year-Olds

As children reach three years of age, breast milk alone falls short of fulfilling their comprehensive nutritional requirements. Essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and fiber must come from various food sources.

According to Dr. Lalita Kanojiya, Additional Director – Pediatrics at CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur, reliance solely on breast milk can result in nutritional deficiencies. At this age, the consumption of breast milk shifts more towards emotional comfort rather than a dietary necessity. Some children may favor breastfeeding over solid foods, particularly during bedtime, potentially disrupting their overall dietary intake.

Concerns Regarding Dental Health

According to reports, extended breastfeeding into the nighttime may also pose risks to dental health. Breast milk contains lactose, a natural sugar, which, when coupled with inadequate oral hygiene practices, can lead to an increased risk of dental caries. This risk underscores the vital importance of ensuring proper oral care, especially for children who continue breastfeeding beyond infancy.

Steps for Gentle Weaning

• Start Slowly, Not Suddenly

  Gradually reduce one feeding at a time instead of stopping abruptly. This helps your child adjust emotionally and physically.

• Drop the Least Important Feed First

  Eliminate daytime comfort feeds before tackling bedtime or early-morning feeds, which are usually harder to stop.

• Shorten the Duration

  Let your child nurse for a shorter time than usual. You can gently say, “We’ll count to 20, then we’re done.”

• Offer Alternatives

  Replace breastfeeding with cuddles, story time, a favorite snack, or a warm cup of milk (if age-appropriate).

• Create New Bedtime Rituals

  Introduce calming routines like reading, singing, or soft music to replace nursing as a sleep cue.

• Set Gentle Boundaries

  Explain clearly and calmly: “Milk is only for bedtime now.” Consistency helps toddlers understand expectations.

Discontinuing breastfeeding abruptly could result in emotional distress for the child and discomfort for the mother. Experts advise a gradual approach to weaning as the most considerate method. Dr. Kanojiya suggests parents identify key moments of “comfort feeds,” often associated with sleep times, and gradually substitute them with alternative comforting routines.

Methods for Parents to Initiate Weaning

Evidence-based steps parents can take include replacing bedtime feeds with alternative routines such as storytelling, cuddling, soft music, or a cup of warm milk. Involving other family members in the bedtime process can also ease the transition, as children may not associate them with breastfeeding.

Gradually reducing the duration of each breastfeeding session instead of opting for an abrupt stop can help, as can establishing structured meal times and healthy snacks, thus minimizing hunger-induced requests for breast milk. Dr. Kanojiya emphasizes that a sudden cessation may lead to emotional turmoil for the child and physiological discomfort for the mother, making a gradual approach advisable.

Importance of Consistency in Weaning

Consistency is crucial during the weaning process, as mixed signals can confuse young children. It is beneficial to maintain a firm stance on reducing breastfeeding sessions, even during challenging moments when children may cry for it. Providing daytime distractions through play, organized activities, and consistent routines can help lessen emotional dependency on breastfeeding.

Embracing Personal Choices in Weaning

Many mothers may experience guilt over their breastfeeding choices, whether feeling criticized for breastfeeding “too long” or for their desire to wean. However, weaning is a personal decision that varies for each child; some may naturally wean by two years, while others may take longer.

Dr. Kanojiya advises that a patient, peaceful, and loving approach fosters a smoother transition for both mother and child. The bond from breastfeeding is significant, and concluding it does not diminish the closeness shared. In due time, children will find comfort in hugs, bedtime stories, and parental presence rather than solely in breastfeeding.

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Medical Intervention

Upon further investigation using X-ray imaging, it was confirmed that a foreign object had lodged itself in the child’s windpipe. Medical professionals proceeded with a bronchoscopy, a minimally invasive procedure that allows doctors to inspect the airway. During this procedure, they successfully extracted a compact LED bulb measuring just one centimeter in diameter.

Details of the Incident

Reports indicate that the LED bulb had become stuck in the throat after being ingested. The object posed a significant risk to the child’s respiratory health, making the medical intervention critical. Following the removal of the bulb, the child is expected to recover well.

Importance of Safety Precautions

This incident highlights the need for increased vigilance regarding small objects in environments where children are present. Parents and caregivers should ensure that items that could be ingested or pose choking hazards are kept out of reach. The medical community continues to advocate for awareness regarding the potential dangers of small electronic components around young children.

Ongoing Pediatric Challenges

Cases such as these underscore ongoing challenges that pediatric healthcare professionals face. As children explore their environments, the risk of ingesting foreign objects persists. Doctors urge parents to seek immediate medical attention if their child exhibits signs of distress or respiratory difficulties.

Community Response

The local community has expressed relief at the successful outcome of the surgery. Families experiencing similar situations are encouraged to prioritize safety and quickly consult healthcare providers when health concerns arise. Public awareness campaigns aimed at educating parents about household safety measures for children may become essential in light of incidents like this.

This case serves as a reminder of the vigilance required when caring for infants and toddlers, where seemingly innocuous items can lead to serious health issues. The medical team involved in this incident looks forward to the child’s full recovery, reinforcing the importance of prompt and appropriate medical care in emergencies.

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The five new centres—including two dedicated exclusively to bone marrow transplant patients—will provide a free, safe and hygienic accommodation for 130 families each year. The support extends far beyond shelter, offering nutritious meals, counselling, educational assistance, and transportation. Together, these services create a nurturing “home away from home” for children undergoing intensive treatment.

The Foundation’s commitment to patient well-being also includes other infrastructure at the ACTREC site. H T Parekh Foundation has also funded the installation of three new elevators to improve accessibility, a sustainable waste management system, including composting units and part of the green cover area of the building. These efforts reinforce a shared mission to provide comprehensive, long-term solutions that enhance the dignity and comfort of every family member.

The five centres are part of St. Judes’ most ambitious project to date: a 12-storey, 234-unit complex. Once fully operational, this facility is projected to provide free accommodation for over 700 families annually, creating a haven for an estimated 35,000 individuals over the next twenty years.

“Our association with St Judes started over a decade ago, for the operations of their centres across Indian cities; we then supported a centre at their facility at Cotton Green (Mumbai), and are now privileged to stand with them as they inaugurate their largest facility in Kharghar.

With pediatric cancer on the rise and limited tertiary care facilities, we firmly believe India needs many more St. Judes models replicated across India, that will provide the necessary care, nutrition and hygiene in a safe space for children and their families during their intensive treatment in large cities like Mumbai,” said Ziaa Lalkaka, Executive Director & CEO, H T Parekh Foundation.

Anil Nair, CEO, St. Judes, mentioned, “For families who travel to big cities for their child’s cancer treatment, St. Judes offers more than comfort and care—it provides them with a ‘home away from home’. Our centres offer them a ray of hope by providing a nurturing environment where young patients can recover with dignity. With the support of H T Parekh Foundation, this new facility will extend that lifeline to hundreds more children and families each year.”

The inauguration was undertaken in the presence of Mr Deepak S. Parekh, Chairman, H T Parekh Foundation, alongside Ms. Manisha Parthasarathy, Chairperson, St. Judes India, and Mr Anil Nair, CEO, St. Judes India, together with members of the St. Judes and H T Parekh Foundation teams.

Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.

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The seminar, themed “Transforming Health: Breakthrough Interventions,” brought together success stories from 329 aspirational districts and 500 aspirational blocks across the country. Lunglei Deputy Commissioner Navneet Mann presented Project BLOOM — Better Living through Outreach, Optimal Maternal and Child Health — to an audience comprising policymakers, development experts, and health officials.

Targeting maternal and child health challenges

Launched on June 17, 2023, the initiative focuses on the Lungsen aspirational block, a region long affected by poor maternal and child health indicators. Geographical isolation, high logistical costs, poor internet access, and limited awareness have made healthcare delivery in the area exceptionally difficult.

Project BLOOM uses a community-driven approach that integrates services across health, nutrition, transport, and behavioral change sectors. The strategy is built on inter-departmental collaboration and grassroots-level engagement, making it both inclusive and sustainable.

Key interventions under project BLOOM

One of the standout features of the initiative is an on-call transport service, which prioritizes high-risk pregnancies and ensures timely referral and transport from remote villages to the district hospital. To address the issue of access, villagers — in collaboration with local authorities — set up 12 temporary homestays near delivery centers, offering expectant mothers safe accommodation and support until delivery.

Additionally, Village Health Sanitation and Nutrition Committees (VHSNCs) played a critical role by conducting door-to-door surveys to identify pregnant women and malnourished children, including those suffering from Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) and Moderate Acute Malnutrition (MAM).

Community ownership and impact

Speaking at the event, Deputy Commissioner Navneet Mann remarked, “Project BLOOM is not just a health initiative — it is a community movement. By converging efforts across departments and placing the community at the center, we’ve managed to make meaningful strides in maternal and child health, even in some of the most difficult-to-reach areas.”

With its inclusion among the top 19 best practices by NITI Aayog, Project BLOOM is now being seen as a national model for delivering maternal and child healthcare in remote and underserved regions.

As the initiative scales up, health officials and stakeholders hope it will inspire replication in similar contexts across India, contributing to stronger health outcomes nationwide.

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