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!

A doctor has highlighted a common kitchen spice that may work just as effectively as omeprazole in relieving heartburn, acid reflux, and indigestion. Omeprazole is often prescribed for these conditions as a Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI), helping to reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach.

About 15% of the UK population takes a PPI like omeprazole. In England alone, over 73 million PPI prescriptions were issued in 2022–23, with omeprazole among the most commonly prescribed.

What Is Omeprazole Used For?

Omeprazole is a drug that lowers the amount of acid the stomach produces. Part of a class of medicines called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), it is used to treat and prevent a range of acid-related problems, as per Mayo Clinic.

The length of treatment with omeprazole, as advised by your doctor, depends on the condition being treated and the prescribed dosage. Following your healthcare provider’s instructions and completing the full course of medication, even if symptoms improve, is important.

However, long-term use of omeprazole can increase the risk of various health issues, making regular consultations with your GP important, reports the Mirror. Prolonged acid suppression and changes in gut bacteria caused by extended use can result in several complications.

Lower stomach acid can reduce the body’s ability to absorb key nutrients, potentially causing deficiencies in magnesium, vitamin B12, calcium, and iron. Long-term use may also raise the risk of bone fractures and kidney problems. Other possible issues include growths in the stomach, dementia, and liver or heart problems.

Suppressing stomach acid, which normally kills harmful bacteria, can make the body more prone to infections such as community-acquired pneumonia or Clostridioides difficile infection, which causes severe diarrhoea and stomach pain.

Omeprazole Alternative: What Is The Spice, And How Can It Help?

Experts suggest that one kitchen spice could match omeprazole’s effectiveness while avoiding its health risks. Dr Michael Ruscio, DC, DNM, says curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, may be “just as effective,” according to research.

Dr Ruscio, a naturopathic practitioner, clinical researcher, and author, has published work in peer-reviewed medical journals. He is the Chief Health Officer and Head of Research at RIFM, and Founder and CEO of DrRuscio.com.

In a YouTube video for his 145k subscribers, Dr Ruscio explained that curcumin may help manage heartburn and acid reflux without relying on PPIs. He said: “Let me show you an important study demonstrating the power of anti-inflammatory interventions. You’ve probably heard of curcumin, this anti-inflammatory spice. A 2023 randomized control trial compared omeprazole to curcumin at two grams per day for one month.”

Quoting the study, “Curcumin and omeprazole showed similar effectiveness for functional dyspepsia,” a term covering symptoms like fullness, GORD, and indigestion. Dr Ruscio added, “It’s remarkable that curcumin, which also has benefits such as reducing joint pain, can be as effective as omeprazole. And it doesn’t carry the long-term risks of acid suppression that come with omeprazole.”

Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may reduce oesophageal inflammation caused by stomach acid. Animal studies suggest it can protect the stomach lining from damage caused by certain medications and other irritants.

What Did The Study's Findings Reveal?

The referenced research, published in BMJ Journals as “Curcumin and proton pump inhibitors for functional dyspepsia: a randomized, double-blind controlled trial,” found that a daily dose of curcumin provided relief from functional dyspepsia symptoms comparable to omeprazole.

No significant side effects were observed, though liver function tests showed some decline in overweight participants taking curcumin. The researchers noted limitations including the short study period and lack of long-term data.

They concluded, “This multicentre randomized controlled trial provides strong evidence for treating functional dyspepsia.”

Functional dyspepsia, or chronic indigestion, occurs as persistent or recurring discomfort in the upper abdomen. Symptoms may include bloating, burping, nausea, or feeling full too quickly, often signaling issues in the oesophagus, stomach, or duodenum.

Despite promising results, it is essential to consult your doctor before making major changes to your diet or replacing prescribed medication with supplements. A discussion with your GP can help identify the most effective approach to managing your health.

What Else Is Curcumin Good For?

Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to ageing and illnesses like heart disease and cancer. Studies suggest it may relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, easing joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation.

Some research indicates curcumin may be as effective as certain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief.

It may also support brain health by raising levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a hormone important for memory and learning. Researchers are investigating its potential to protect cognitive function with age and against conditions like Alzheimer’s.

Additionally, curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, along with possible benefits for cholesterol and blood pressure, may reduce the risk of heart disease.

People who take methotrexate for different health conditions have been cautioned by the NHS that certain symptoms and side effects should not be ignored and may require urgent medical help, including a visit to A&E or calling 999. Methotrexate works as an immunosuppressant, meaning it dampens the immune system to help control inflammation in the body.

What Is Methotrexate?

Methotrexate belongs to a group of medicines known as antimetabolites. It helps manage rheumatoid arthritis by dampening the body’s immune response, controls psoriasis by slowing the rapid buildup of skin cells, and is used in cancer treatment to limit the growth and spread of cancer cells, as per Mayo Clinic.

Doctors commonly prescribe it for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and psoriasis. In some situations, it is also used as part of cancer treatment. Methotrexate is usually taken as a tablet, a liquid medicine that is swallowed, or as a pre-filled pen or syringe that is injected under the skin. While many people benefit from the drug, it can also cause serious side effects that may be worrying for some patients.

Side Effects Of Methotrexate And When To Call For Emergency?

Certain severe side effects linked to methotrexate are rare and affect fewer than 1 in 10,000 people. Even so, the NHS advises contacting your doctor or calling 111 if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Swelling in the hands, feet, or ankles along with shortness of breath, which may point to a kidney issue
• A long-lasting cough, chest discomfort, or trouble breathing, which could suggest lung inflammation
• Yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes, which can indicate liver damage
• Bleeding gums, vomiting blood, unexplained bruises, or blood in the urine, which may signal a blood disorder
• A high temperature, sore throat, or body aches, which could be signs of an infection

Symptoms of this can include:

• Swelling of the lips, throat, or tongue
• A tight sensation in the throat or difficulty swallowing
• Confusion
• Collapsing or fainting and being hard to wake
• Skin, lips, or tongue turning blue, pale, or grey
• Very rapid breathing or severe difficulty breathing

Methotrexate: What Should You Watch Out For While Taking This Medication?

See your care team regularly so they can monitor how the treatment is working. It may take a while before you notice any improvement. You may be asked to get routine blood tests during the course of treatment.

If your care team has prescribed folic acid along with methotrexate, they may advise you not to take folic acid on the same day as your methotrexate dose.

This medicine can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Try to stay out of direct sun exposure. If that is not possible, wear covered clothing and apply sunscreen. Avoid sun lamps, tanning beds, or tanning booths.

Contact your care team if you have severe diarrhea, ongoing nausea or vomiting, or heavy sweating. Losing too much fluid from your body can make this medicine unsafe. This drug can raise your chances of developing an infection. Call your care team if you develop a fever, chills, sore throat, or flu-like symptoms. Do not self-medicate. As far as possible, stay away from people who are unwell.

Discuss your cancer risk with your care team. Long-term use of this medication may increase the risk of certain cancers.

Speak to your care team if you or your partner could become pregnant. Methotrexate can cause serious birth defects if taken during pregnancy or within six months after the last dose. A negative pregnancy test is required before starting treatment. Reliable contraception should be used while on this medication and for six months after stopping it. Your care team can guide you on suitable options.

If your partner can become pregnant, use condoms during sexual activity while taking this medication and for three months after the final dose. Do not breastfeed while using this medication and for at least one week after the last dose.

This medication may affect fertility. If this is a concern, discuss it with your care team.

America is aiming to align with global trends in sun protection. On December 11, the Food and Drug Administration proposed allowing the use of bemotrizinol in sunscreens — an ingredient that has been widely used in other countries for years.

Bemotrizinol provides stable, long-lasting defence against both types of UV rays that can harm the skin. According to the FDA announcement, it is gentle enough to be safe for young children and could be on shelves in time for next summer.

"The agency has historically moved too slowly in this area, leaving Americans with fewer options than consumers abroad. We’re continuing to modernize the regulation of sunscreen and other over-the-counter drug products,” FDA Commissioner Marty Makary said in a press statement. “Americans deserve timely access to the best safe, effective, and consumer-friendly over-the-counter products available.”

What is Bemotrizinol?

Bemotrizinol, also called BEMT, is a chemical that absorbs both UVB and UVA rays. If those terms sound familiar, it’s likely because you’ve seen them on nearly every sunscreen bottle. The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is exactly what sunscreen is designed to block.

UVB and UVA describe different kinds of rays, according to the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. For our skin, the difference isn’t huge. UVA causes tanning and burns faster than UVB, while UVB can be partially blocked by barriers like windows or clouds.

About 95% of UV reaching the ground is UVA, with UVB making up the remaining 5%, according to the Anderson Cancer Center. Sunscreens work in two ways: creating a physical barrier with minerals or using chemicals that absorb rays before they reach the skin. BEMT falls into the latter category.

Why Is BEMT Good For Use In Sunscreen?

BEMT ticks many boxes for an effective sunscreen ingredient. It is broad-spectrum, shielding against both UVA and UVB, and achieves higher SPF protection in smaller amounts than some other popular chemicals, according to Certified Laboratories and the FDA via USA Today. It is also photostable, meaning it breaks down more slowly when exposed to sunlight, and being oil-soluble makes it easy to mix into creams.

The ingredient is minimally absorbed into the body through the skin and rarely causes irritation, which is why the FDA considers it safe for children as young as six months old.

When Will BEMT Come To Sunscreen In The US?

Following the proposal, the FDA has opened a 45-day public comment period. Once the agency reviews feedback and confirms safety, it will issue a final order to allow the ingredient. Over-the-counter approvals are generally faster than the one-to-two years typical for prescription drugs. The FDA told Today that BEMT sunscreens could be available by summer or fall of 2026.

What Caused FDA Delays in Sunscreen Approvals?

Recent holdups at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in clearing new sunscreen ingredients have largely stemmed from long-standing regulatory slowdowns, which left American shoppers with fewer choices than those offered in many other countries.

The agency’s plan to permit the use of bemotrizinol, a filter already common abroad, marks a step toward updating its approach to sunscreen oversight and giving people access to more advanced formulas. Updates from the agency note that bemotrizinol delivers steady, broad-spectrum defense against UVA and UVB rays and is mild enough for children, bringing U.S. standards closer to what is widely available worldwide.