A report by Swachh Bharat Mission says that 74.5 per cent of public places are equipped with toilets. Another report by the Ministry of Jal Shakti states that there are 2.23 lakh Community Sanitary Complexes built across all States and UTs under the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) since October 2014. Over 92 lakh toilets have been constructed since the launch of SBM Gramin (SBM (G)) in April 2020.

While toilets are there, are they accessible? This is the question one should ask. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS) focuses on 131 health indicators, but not until the NFHS 5 survey did they include the question of accessibility of toilets in the survey. This happened after the inputs from the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS) and the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare questioned the accessibility.

One might ask, why is the question of accessibility so important? The answer is quite simple. Access to water, sanitation and hygiene is the most basic human need and is also included under the Sustainable Development Goals by the UN.

Are These Numbers Real?

This thought crossed my mind because back in 2021, I went on a solo trip, on a bus to Udaipur from Delhi. There, the bus made two stoppages. This was done so people could get a quick dinner and freshen up, relieve themselves and be prepared for the rest of the journey. This was a nightmare. The bus only stopped for 10 minutes. While some men used the washroom, others went to the bushes.

For the women, there were three cubicles. One of them was broken, and the other one did not have a light bulb, which meant only one was usable. There was a long queue for that cubicle, and time was short. There was no point in trying to find an isolated corner, because it was past midnight, in an unknown area.

I waited anxiously. When finally, my turn came, I saw an overused, dirty washroom. The toilet seat is in a horrible condition. I wanted to touch nothing there. But I had to pee. So, I used my mask to cover my nose from the odour, folded my pants so they did not touch the floor and squatted. It was quite a task to balance.

On my way back to Delhi, I made sure to not drink any water for over a 13-hour bus journey. I dehydrated myself so I did not have to use the washroom. When I did reach, I was severely dehydrated and was sick for three days.

I shared my experience with my friends only to realise that many women have faced the same. There are no washrooms for women.

A friend of mine told me that it is because these roads and dhabas are mainly designed to serve men. They are the ones who travel at night or are on the roads most of the time. As a result, the few women who do travel or are on the road suffer.

Health Risks Women Are Prone To

Well, it is true, but partially. While holding your pee for too long can lead to health risks, peeing on a dirty toilet seat cannot lead to infections unless your urethra is in contact with the bacteria present on that toilet seat. However, nobody wants to sit on a dirty toilet seat, even if you do not get an infection. A safe and hygienic toilet is a basic need.

One of the regular saleswomen, Usha, who visits my house shared her experience with me. “Being on the road constantly means I must use the dirty public washrooms. But I do not want to use them. So, sometimes I ask my regular customers to let me use their washrooms. Some say yes, and some say no. I understand they are also concerned about their safety and privacy,” she says. As a result, Usha spends most of her day not drinking enough water and holding her pee when she is at work. Due to this, she also suffered from a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI).

Her friend, Halima too faced similar problems and due to increased levels of uric acid in her body, she suffered from Hyperuricemia.

Other health risks are kidney stones and other kidney problems, headaches, dull skin, xerostomia or dry mouth, fatigue, and urinary incontinence, which means losing control over your pelvic floor muscles leading to uncontrolled leakage of urine, seizures and weakness.

What Can You Do?

Wear comfortable clothes and capris. Capri pants are comfortable and are short in length, which means this won’t touch the toilet floor when you squat or sit.

Carry Essentials

Even though you cannot get a UTI alone from sitting on a toilet seat, it is always safe to carry a toilet seat sanitiser. If nothing, it can help you get rid of the bad odour so you can use your stand and pee device inside the toilet. You can also use disposable toilet seat covers if your knees are weak, and you cannot squat. Always flush with your seat down.

Always keep disposable gloves, a portable bidet (fill it with water before use), a pocket liquid handwash, wet wipes, tissues and sanitiser handy. Do not forget to keep extra sanitary pads. It might sound a lot, but I promise that it all fits in one pouch. Use this travel-friendly pouch every time you are on the road, or using a public washroom.

What Can We Learn From Others?

However, in case we do not get these technologically advanced toilets here, you can always pack a travel-friendly toilet kit!

For years, the word "cancer" filled people with fear. Many still believe that a cancer diagnosis means the end. As an oncologist practicing in a Tier-2 city, I see every day that this is no longer true.

With early detection and modern treatment, cancer is now often curable. And the best part: you no longer need to travel to metros to get world-class care.

Why Early Detection Saves Lives

Cancer found early is cancer that can be treated easily.

- Breast cancer detected early has a survival rate of over 90%

- Cervical cancer can be prevented with a simple HPV vaccine and regular screening

- Oral, colon, lung, and prostate cancers also respond far better when caught before they spread

The problem: Most patients still come to us when symptoms become severe.

My request to you: Don’t wait. If there is a lump, persistent cough, bleeding, or unexplained weight loss for more than 2-3 weeks, please see a doctor. A 15-minute screening can add years to your life.

Also read: New Painless Brush Test Detects Oral Cancer In Just 60 Minutes With Over 90% Accuracy

Tier-2 Cities Are No Longer Behind

Earlier, patients from smaller cities had only two options: travel repeatedly to big metro hospitals or settle for limited local treatment. Both were exhausting.

That has changed.

Today, most Tier-2 cities now have comprehensive cancer centers with:

CT/MRI/PET scans, advanced pathology labs, chemotherapy daycare, radiation therapy, and experienced cancer surgeons.

This means diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and follow-up can all happen close to your home, with family support and at a lower cost.

Treatment Today Is Smarter, Not Just Stronger

Chemotherapy is still important, but it’s no longer the only option.

1. Targeted Therapy: Medicines that attack only cancer cells based on genetic testing. Fewer side effects.

2. Immunotherapy: Boosts your own immune system to fight cancer. Giving great results in lung cancer, kidney cancer, and blood cancers.

3. Advanced Radiation: Delivers precise radiation to the tumor while protecting healthy organs.

4. Minimally Invasive Surgery: Keyhole and robotic surgeries mean smaller cuts, less pain, faster recovery. Even elderly patients can now safely undergo surgery.

Also read: Cancer Kills Over 26,000 Daily; Cases to Hit 35 Million by 2050, Says WHO Report

Let’s Break 3 Dangerous Myths

Myth 1: "Cancer always causes pain in the beginning"

Fact: Most early cancers are painless. Don’t wait for pain.

Myth 2: "Surgery makes cancer spread"

Fact: This is false. Surgery is often the most curative treatment when done on time.

Myth 3: "Alternative therapies can cure cancer"

Fact: Diet, yoga, and wellness help with strength and side effects. But they cannot replace doctor-prescribed treatment. Delaying proven treatment reduces your chances of cure.

A Message Of Hope

A cancer diagnosis will change your life, but it does not have to end it. Across Tier-2 India, I am seeing patients go back to work, celebrate birthdays, and live full lives after cancer.

The key is 3 things: Awareness, Early Check-ups, and Trusting Modern Medicine. If you or a loved one has symptoms, please consult an oncologist early. Treatment closer to home is now possible, effective, and affordable. Cancer can be fought. And it can be won.

By Dr. Vikas Talreja, Oncologist, Regency Health, Kanpur

It's just July, and Mumbai’s monsoon has been swinging from tumultuous to alarmingly parched. When the climate shifts with such volatility, it’s bound to have an impact on your overall health.

From dehydration risk to chances of gastrointestinal infections, here’s how rapidly changing weather can take a toll on your mental health.

Impact Of Extreme Weather On Health

Respiratory Effects

HealthandMe spoke to Dr. Abizer Manked, Consultant Physician and Diabetologist at Saifee Hospital, Mumbai. One of the health impacts extreme weather has is on the respiratory system. Due to the increase of irritants and allergens, several respiratory issues can be triggered.

Dr Manked says, “The temperature and humidity can irritate our airways. This can trigger asthma, bronchitis, and allergies. It can also trigger coughing, giving us throat infections, and making it harder to breathe. This is especially true for people who already face breathing problems.”

Allergy Triggers

The expert says that allergy episodes increase significantly during the monsoon, especially when the rain is inconsistent. An increase in humidity paves the way for mould and fungi growth, which can make allergies worse.

Cold And Flu-Like Symptoms

When temperatures and humidity change rapidly, our immune response can take a hit. It can lead to frequent episodes of common cold, cough, and other flu-like symptoms.

“When the weather changes quickly, it can also make us more likely to get infections like the common cold and flu. The weather itself does not make us sick. The sudden change can affect our body’s ability to fight off infections. When we are indoors with a lot of people during the rain, viruses spread easily,” Dr Manked explains.

Also read: Delhi's Poor AQI, Monsoon Conditions Put Children's Lungs at Risk: Ways to Keep Kids Safe

Heat Exhaustion And Dehydration

When a heavy rain episode is followed by hot and humid weather, it can lead to increased risk of heat-related illnesses.

Dr Manked says, “The humidity makes it hard for our bodies to cool down. This can make us tired, give us headaches, and leave us dehydrated more frequently. It can even lead to heat exhaustion. This especially holds true for people who work outside or spend a lot of time in the sun.”

Viral And Parasite Infections

In the monsoon, Mumbai sees the highest number of cases of viral and parasite infections like dengue and malaria.

Flooding and waterlogging create breeding hotspots for mosquitoes, which can lead to more chances of infections. Poor hygiene and maintenance of surroundings further increase the risk.

Fungal Infections

Staying in damp clothes and shoes for long periods increases the risk of contracting fungal infections. The expert says it’s crucial to keep one’s clothes dry to avoid the riks of skin infections.

Also read: Allergic Rhinitis Affects 1 In 10 Indian Adults. Here's Why Monsoon Makes It Worse, And What Helps

How To Protect Yourself From Weather Changes?

Simple precautions can go a long way in reducing health risks during an irregular monsoon:

• Drink clean, safe water, and avoid consuming food exposed to floodwater.
• Wash hands regularly with soap, especially before eating.
• Avoid walking through floodwater whenever possible.
• Wear waterproof footwear if you must step into waterlogged areas.
• Keep homes dry and well-ventilated to reduce mold growth.
• Empty containers that collect rainwater to prevent mosquito breeding.
• Stay hydrated even if the weather feels cooler.
• Change out of wet clothes promptly and dry your feet thoroughly.
• Seek medical attention if you develop persistent fever, severe diarrhea, breathing difficulties, or symptoms after exposure to floodwater.

Children, older adults, and people with asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and other chronic illnesses are more likely to face these health effects during the monsoon. It is, therefore, crucial to take extra precautions and care for those with a weakened immune system.

When you hear the term plastic surgery, what comes to mind first? For many people, it's cosmetic enhancements such as facelifts, rhinoplasty, or body contouring. However, experts say this is one of the biggest misconceptions about the specialty.

Marking World Plastic Surgery Day on July 15, specialists highlighted that plastic surgery is far more than improving appearance. While cosmetic surgery focuses on enhancing aesthetics, reconstructive plastic surgery is dedicated to restoring form and function after injuries, burns, cancer, or congenital conditions.

Originally launched as National Plastic Surgery Day by the Association of Plastic Surgeons of India (APSI) in 2011, the observance was adopted globally by international plastic surgery societies in 2021.

The theme for World Plastic Surgery Day 2026 is "Changing Lives with Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery."

Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Surgery Are Not the Same

Speaking to HealthandMe, Dr. Deepak K. L. Gowda, Senior Consultant – Aesthetics, Plastic Surgery & Reconstructive Surgery at SPARSH Hospital, said plastic surgery is a broad medical specialty, while cosmetic surgery is only one of its subspecialties.

Cosmetic surgery is performed to improve the appearance of otherwise healthy and functional body structures. Reconstructive plastic surgery, on the other hand, aims to restore appearance and function following injury, disease, cancer surgery, burns, or congenital defects.

According to Dr. Gowda, reconstructive procedures account for more than 75% of plastic surgery practice, while cosmetic procedures make up a comparatively smaller proportion. However, the growing popularity of aesthetic treatments has led many people to wrongly assume that plastic surgery is only about beauty enhancement.

Also read: Cyclosporiasis Outbreak: US Probes Taco Bell Link; CDC Reviews Over 5,100 Cases

Common Cosmetic Procedures

Cosmetic surgery is designed to enhance physical appearance in individuals whose body structures function normally. Some of the most commonly performed procedures include: breast augmentation, rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), facelifts

and dermal fillers and more.

When Is Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Needed?

Reconstructive plastic surgery helps restore both appearance and function after illness, injury, or trauma. Common procedures include:

• Breast reconstruction after cancer surgery
• Burn reconstruction
• Cleft lip and palate correction
• Reconstruction of congenital limb abnormalities
• Hand surgery

Read: Study Decodes Why COVID Survivors Continue To Suffer Vision Problems

Seven Questions To Ask Before A Cosmetic Procedure

Dr. Chintan Gujarati, Cosmetic and Plastic Surgeon at Ruby Hall Clinic, told HealthandMe that cosmetic procedures can enhance appearance and boost confidence, but they should always be approached with careful planning and informed decision-making.

He recommended asking these seven questions before undergoing any cosmetic procedure:

1. Is the procedure right for me?

Discuss whether the treatment is suitable for your health, goals, and individual needs.

2. Is my surgeon qualified?

Ensure the procedure is performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon or a trained specialist with relevant experience.

3. What are the risks?

Understand possible complications, including infection, scarring, or the need for additional treatment.

4. What results can I realistically expect?

Cosmetic procedures can improve appearance, but they cannot guarantee perfection.

5. What is the recovery process?

Ask about downtime, pain management, activity restrictions, and when you can safely return to your routine.

6. What will the procedure cost?

Request a detailed breakdown covering consultation fees, hospital charges, medications, and follow-up visits to avoid unexpected expenses.

7. What if I am unhappy with the results?

Discuss revision policies and available corrective options before making a decision.

Making an Informed Decision

Experts emphasized that choosing to undergo a cosmetic procedure is a personal decision that should be based on realistic expectations, qualified medical advice, and a clear understanding of the benefits, risks, recovery process, and overall costs.

They also stress that plastic surgery extends well beyond aesthetics, with reconstructive surgery continuing to play a vital role in restoring both function and quality of life for patients affected by injury, disease, or congenital conditions.