Singer Jesy Nelson recently shared an emotional update regarding the complications she is experiencing in her pregnancy with twin babies. Former Little Mix singer Jesy, who is having twins with partner Zion Foster, announced that she has been diagnosed with pre-twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (pre-TTTS). The condition, which is present in pregnancies involving twins with a shared placenta, has serious risks involved and needs intense medical supervision. As Nelson embarks on this difficult journey, her story enlightens us about a rare but dangerous condition many expectant parents may not know much about.

Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome is a rare but dangerous condition that arises in monochorionic twin pregnancies, in which identical twins share a single placenta. The placenta supplies the developing babies with oxygen, nutrients, and blood flow, but in TTTS, there is an imbalance of blood vessels that interconnect the twins, and thus the vital resources are not evenly distributed. One twin, or the donor twin, shares excess blood with the other, referred to as the recipient twin. This leads to one baby becoming malnourished and possibly anemic, and the other in danger of heart problems due to too much blood.

Nelson described her diagnosis in a heartfelt Instagram video, explaining that she is currently in the pre-stage of TTTS and undergoing frequent monitoring. "I am being scanned twice a week, and each time, things have gotten a little worse," she shared, expressing her fears and hopes for the health of her babies.

Potential Risks of TTTS

If left untreated, TTTS can have devastating consequences. Medical research indicates that:

• 90% of the cases of untreated TTTS lead to loss of one or both twins.
• Despite treatment, only a 70% survival rate for both twins is assured.
• Severe forms can result in preterm labor, cardiac failure in the recipient twin, and organ failure in the donor twin.
• Complications in long-term survivors include neurological damage and developmental delay in surviving infants.

TTTS usually advances in stages, beginning with minimal changes in fluid levels and worsening as one twin continues to get an unequal share of blood. In extreme cases, fetal laser surgery, referred to as the Solomon technique, can be employed to divide the blood vessels and balance the twins.

Why Identical Twin Pregnancies Are More Complicated

Identical twins may develop differently, and their own unique form of placental sharing can have a dramatic effect on pregnancy risk. Jesy Nelson's twins are considered monochorionic diamniotic (mono/di), which means they share a placenta but have two amniotic sacs. This is the type of pregnancy in about 70% of identical twin pregnancies and carries an increased risk of complications like TTTS, umbilical cord entanglement, and growth restriction.

Conversely, dichorionic diamniotic (di/di) twins both have a separate placenta and amniotic sac, which greatly diminishes the threat of TTTS. Twin pregnancy type is normally identified by early ultrasound, with physicians being able to track future complications from inception.

Other Twin Pregnancy Health Risks

Twin pregnancies, even without the presence of TTTS, entail a variety of health risks to the mother as well as infants:

1. Premature Birth

Over 60% of twin pregnancies end in premature delivery, with birth usually taking place before 37 weeks. Premature infants can have immature organs and need neonatal intensive care (NICU) assistance to assist with breathing, feeding, and infection fighting.

2. Gestational Hypertension and Preeclampsia

Pregnant women with multiples are at increased risk of having high blood pressure during pregnancy. This, if left untreated, can result in preeclampsia, a serious complication of pregnancy that can result in damage to organs, preterm labor, and in some cases, maternal or fetal death.

3. Anemia

Pregnant women carrying multiples are twice as likely to experience anemia, a condition where the body does not produce enough healthy red blood cells. This can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and complications during delivery.

4. Birth Defects

According to John Hopkins Medicine, multiple birth babies are twice as likely to have congenital abnormalities compared to single births. These can include heart defects, neural tube defects, and gastrointestinal issues.

5. Amniotic Fluid Imbalances

When twins have to share a placenta, they are more likely to have polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid) or oligohydramnios (not enough amniotic fluid). Both result in distress to the babies during fetal development and can result in premature labor.

6. Postpartum Hemorrhage

Twins are at increased risk of excessive postpartum hemorrhage because their uterus is larger and there are greater blood supply needs.

Jesy Nelson's openness about her challenging experience is raising awareness for TTTS, a condition that few individuals—let alone expectant mothers and fathers—might be aware of. Through her tearful video, Nelson stressed the significance of knowing about twin pregnancies aside from the thrill of having multiples. "We had no idea that this type of thing occurs when you're having twins. We just desperately want to make people aware of this because there are so many people who aren't aware."

Her case reminds us of the intricacies involved in twin pregnancy and the significance of early identification and medical management. For mothers carrying twins, frequent ultrasounds and vigilance can become a life-and-death issue for early detection and better outcomes of both babies.

Through constant medical attention and care, she and her partner Zion Foster remain positive and get ready for their babies to be born. In other parents whose situations are no different, the story of Nelson highlights awareness, medical progress, and emotional encouragement in handling complicated pregnancies.

The expecting parents of twin siblings are advised to discuss TTTS screening and possible interventions with their physicians to give their babies the best chance.

While the US is seeing one of its largest-ever Cyclospora outbreaks, with Michigan reporting more than 6,500 cases and several hospitalizations, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the multi-state cyclosporiasis outbreak is "under control."

"We do have the outbreak under control," Kennedy told ABC News. "We have an extensive forensics, epidemiological forensics, and we've identified the source of the outbreak. We and the companies that are involved have implemented a recall."

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have linked the outbreak, which has sickened at least 1,600 people across five states, to shredded iceberg lettuce served at some Taco Bell locations. The lettuce was supplied by Taylor Farms and sourced from central Mexico.

Michigan Cases Continue To Rise

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported 6,571 cases in the state as of July 21, up by 423 from the 6,148 cases reported a day earlier. The state's patients include a woman who said she remained ill for several days after becoming infected.

As of July 16, 102 people had been hospitalized, more than double the 44 hospitalizations reported the previous week.

Lettuce Recall

Taylor Farms has voluntarily recalled dozens of lettuce products across 27 states and said it will not source iceberg lettuce from central Mexico for "the rest of the growing season."

Health officials are continuing to investigate additional cases and any other potential sources of infection. So far, no other sources have been identified for the domestically acquired infections reported in 29 other states.

Taylor Farms also said on social media that none of its Taylor Farms-branded salad kits are linked to the outbreak. Most of the recalled lettuce was sold in large bags to food-service operations, including restaurants, with many products blended with romaine lettuce.

Media reports also said several companies have begun removing affected products from stores and supply chains, including:

• Walmart
• Sysco
• US Foods
• Jack in the Box
• Taco Bell

What Is Cyclospora cayetanensis?

Cyclospora cayetanensis is a microscopic parasite that causes cyclosporiasis, a foodborne intestinal illness. People become infected by consuming contaminated food or water.

The infection typically causes watery diarrhea and other digestive symptoms. While many cases are mild, the illness can last for weeks or even months if left untreated. Doctors usually treat the infection with antibiotics.

People with weakened immune systems, including those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or other conditions that affect immunity, are at greater risk of developing severe illness.

Symptoms Of Cyclospora Infection

Symptoms usually appear about one week after consuming contaminated food or water and may include:

• Watery or explosive diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Bloating and gas
• Fatigue
• Low-grade fever
• Nausea
• Stomach cramps
• Vomiting

How To Reduce Your Risk

Health officials recommend:

• Avoid eating shredded iceberg lettuce linked to the recall.
• Wash all fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under clean running water, even if they are labeled pre-washed.
• Follow safe food-handling practices.
• Stay updated on food recalls and outbreak alerts.
• Contact a healthcare provider if symptoms develop.

Experts also recommend choosing whole heads of lettuce instead of bagged greens. Remove the outer leaves, wash the inner leaves thoroughly under running water, and cook produce whenever possible, as heat is the most effective way to kill Cyclospora.

Even as India has vaccinated more than 5.2 million girls against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the Delhi High Court on Tuesday sought responses from the Centre and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) over the nationwide rollout of the cervical cancer vaccine, Gardasil, following allegations that it is being introduced without adequate study.

The court issued notice on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the proposed administration of the vaccine to adolescent girls under the Universal Immunization Program (UIP).

According to the petition, the vaccination program is being implemented without ensuring informed parental consent and adequate scientific safeguards, Live Law reported.

A Division Bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia described the matter as "extremely important."

According to the Centre, 52,10,302 girls across the country have received the HPV vaccine under the nationwide campaign launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February. The figures were shared in Parliament during the ongoing Monsoon Session.

Court Seeks Government's Response

The Bench also asked Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma to assist the court in the matter.

"Mr Sharma, very important issue. Vaccination is a good scheme, but if there are some adverse consequences, we will have to be very cautious. Seek instructions from the Ministry. Ask some officer to come and brief you. Someone who is in charge of all this should come and brief you, and ensure that someone from the drug control organisation also comes and briefs you," the Court remarked.

The judges clarified that they were not questioning the government's intentions, but emphasized that the issue affects the health of millions of adolescent girls and therefore warrants careful scrutiny.

"We have to tread a very cautious path," the Bench observed.

Also read: Fact Check: Common Myths Around HPV Vaccine And How It Will Prevent Cervical Cancer

What Does the PIL Allege?

The PIL, filed by gynecologist Dr. Sujata Mittal and fitness influencer Jitendra Chouksey, raises concerns about the data, efficacy and necessity of the Gardasil vaccine.

The petition claims that vaccination drives are being conducted in schools and that frontline health workers, including ASHA workers, have been assigned enrolment targets. It alleges that this has, in some instances, resulted in undue pressure on adolescent girls to get vaccinated, Bar and Bench reported.

The petitioners also cited the case of a 14-year-old girl from Tamil Nadu who allegedly developed severe neurological complications—including paralysis-like weakness, loss of voice and impaired vision—days after receiving the vaccine in March 2026.

The PIL further refers to similar reported incidents in Gwalior and Bihar, questioning whether adequate vaccine safety monitoring and surveillance mechanisms are in place.

Read to Know: SHetA2: India's Indigenous Drug Candidate For Cervical Cancer

Why HPV Vaccination Matters

The national program uses Gardasil, a quadrivalent HPV vaccine that protects against HPV types 16 and 18, which are responsible for most cervical cancers, as well as types 6 and 11, which cause genital warts.

According to the government, Gardasil has been licensed for use in India since 2008. The nationwide rollout follows recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO) and approvals by the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI).

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection worldwide. While many infections clear on their own, persistent infection with high-risk HPV strains can lead to cervical, anal, throat and penile cancers. HPV vaccination is widely recommended to help prevent cervical cancer, particularly when administered before exposure to the virus.

The High Court has scheduled the next hearing in the matter for July 29.

Children who consume higher amounts of ultra-processed foods may already be showing subtle changes in the way their bodies regulate insulin, potentially increasing the risk for type 2 diabetes in the future.

According to a new study published in the journal Nutrients, children who have higher amounts of in ultra-processed foods (UPFs) had reduced insulin sensitivity and higher insulin secretion, even though they did not have diabetes.

The findings note that the metabolic changes linked to diabetes may begin much earlier in life than previously thought.

How Was The Study Conducted?

Also read: France Becomes First EU Nation To Ban Social Media For Under-15s; Could This Help Children's Mental Health?

The study analyzed data from 508 non-diabetic Mexican American children aged 6 to 17 years participating in the San Antonio Family Assessment of Metabolic Risk Indicators in Youth (SAFARI) study.

Researchers examined the participants' diets using food frequency questionnaires and estimated the proportion of calories coming from ultra-processed foods, like sugary beverages, packaged snacks, processed meats, instant meals, and breakfast cereals.

On average, more than 53% of the children's daily calorie intake came from ultra-processed foods.

Using fasting blood samples and oral glucose tolerance tests, the team evaluated 19 measures of insulin function, including insulin sensitivity, insulin resistance, and pancreatic beta-cell activity.

They found that children with higher ultra-processed food intake had lower insulin sensitivity, meaning their bodies responded less effectively to insulin. At the same time, their pancreases appeared to compensate by producing more insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels.

"The association between ultra-processed food intake and decreased insulin sensitivity, along with increased insulin secretion, suggests that these dietary patterns may contribute to early metabolic dysfunction before overt diabetes develops," the researchers wrote in the study.

The researchers adjusted their analyses for several factors that could influence metabolism, including age, sex, physical activity, puberty, body fat, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and family relationships. The associations remained almost the same even after these adjustments.

Poor Insulin Response From A Young Age

Also read: Rain = No Playground; How Reduced Outdoor Activity During Monsoon Affects Children's Immunity, Weight & Mental Health

Although blood glucose levels remained largely normal among participants, the findings indicate that the pancreas may already be working harder to compensate for declining insulin sensitivity.

"These findings underscore the importance of limiting ultra-processed food consumption during childhood to help preserve healthy insulin function and potentially reduce future cardiometabolic disease risk," the authors noted.

The researchers said several mechanisms could explain the link. Ultra-processed foods are often rich in refined carbohydrates, added sugars, unhealthy fats, and food additives while being low in fiber.

These characteristics may promote inflammation, alter the gut microbiome, and impair the body's ability to regulate insulin over time.

Not Definite Cause And Effect

Also read: 13.5 Million Children Remain Zero-Dose In 2025 Despite Global Vaccination Gains: UN Report

However, the authors cautioned that the study does not prove cause and effect. Because it was a cross-sectional study, it can only identify associations.

They also noted that dietary intake was self-reported, and the findings may not be generalizable beyond the Mexican American children included in the study.

The researchers said more studies following children over time are needed to determine whether reducing ultra-processed food intake can help prevent insulin resistance and lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in their future.

Added Risk Of Hypertension In Children

Due to poor diet, hypertension or high blood pressure has become an increasingly common problem among children and adolescents

Doctors think obesity, poor diet, excessive salt intake, poor sleep, low exercise, and watching too much screen time are all factors that are driving up hypertension rates in kids and teens. Other kidney disease, heart disease, hormone imbalances, or family history can also contribute in some children.

Regular blood pressure checks on children's routine visits are very significant because many children with hypertension may be asymptomatic, experts say. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications with the heart, kidneys, brain and eyes in the long term.