Medical experts have raised alarm over the rapid rise of antibiotic resistance, warning that the world could soon enter a post-antibiotic era where even minor infections become deadly. According to data from India’s ICMR and NCDC, common bacteria such as E. coli, Klebsiella, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas are increasingly resistant to conventional antibiotics. Dr. Sunil Havannavar of Manipal Hospital explained that misuse and overuse of antibiotics, along with poor infection control, are accelerating the crisis. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified antibiotic resistance as one of the top ten global health threats. If antibiotics lose effectiveness, surgeries like heart transplants, joint replacements, and cancer chemotherapy will become highly unsafe. Experts emphasize that responsible antibiotic use, public awareness, and systemic healthcare reforms are essential to prevent a catastrophic medical future where modern treatments could fail.

Bangladesh, located in a seismically active region, often experiences earthquakes that can cause panic among children. Health experts explain that panic attacks occur when intense fear triggers abnormal physical and emotional reactions. To help children cope during or after an earthquake, parents are advised to remain calm, speak gently, and reassure them of safety. Redirecting the child’s attention to familiar or soothing activities, offering water or juice, and encouraging slow, deep breathing can help reduce anxiety. Physical reassurance, such as hugging, can also provide comfort and a sense of security. If a child remains unresponsive or distressed for more than an hour, parents should seek immediate medical or psychological assistance. Experts emphasize that early emotional support can prevent long-term trauma and help children recover from earthquake-related fear more effectively.

Feeling dizzy after an earthquake is a common physiological reaction, experts say. During a quake, the body’s balance system—particularly the vestibular system—becomes hyperactive as it tries to stabilize against the shaking. Even after the tremors stop, the brain may continue to perceive movement, leading to dizziness or imbalance. Research from the University of Tokyo (2022) and Stanford Psychology Lab indicates that both physical and psychological stress responses, including elevated cortisol levels, can cause lightheadedness, nausea, or disorientation. A 2023 study in Nature Human Behaviour found that prolonged exposure to vibration can make the brain temporarily misinterpret stillness as motion. Mild dizziness that resolves within 10–30 minutes is normal and can be eased by sitting down, closing the eyes, drinking water, breathing deeply, and eating light snacks. However, if dizziness persists for more than 24 hours, or is accompanied by vomiting, numbness, or difficulty walking, medical attention is advised.

A one-year-old girl named Fatema was killed when a wall collapsed during an earthquake in Rupganj, Narayanganj, on Friday morning. Her mother, Kulsum Begum, and neighbor Jesmin Begum were seriously injured in the incident. Fatema’s father, Abdul Haque, could not attend his daughter’s burial as he was accompanying his injured wife from hospital to hospital in search of proper treatment. Despite visiting three hospitals, including US-Bangla Medical College, Dhaka Medical College, and Dhaka National Hospital, Kulsum was denied admission due to a lack of available beds. The family, struggling financially, expressed frustration over the lack of medical support for the poor. They were later advised to transfer Kulsum to the National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital in Agargaon for further treatment. The earthquake struck at around 10:38 a.m., causing the wall to collapse on the victims while they were walking along the road.

Interim government health adviser Nurjahan Begum stated that most injuries from the recent 5.7-magnitude earthquake in Dhaka were caused by panic rather than the tremor itself. During a visit to Dhaka Medical College Hospital on Friday, she explained that many victims were hurt while jumping or colliding in fear. Among the injured are several university students, one of whom is in critical condition. Two patients arrived from Narsingdi, including a child who died and whose father remains in intensive care. Three deaths were reported at Mitford Hospital, including a medical student. Nurjahan Begum emphasized that despite the moderate strength of the quake, the number of injuries was unexpectedly high due to panic-driven reactions. She assured that all public hospitals have been instructed to ensure proper treatment for the injured and that no lapses in medical care will occur.

Health experts have warned that thermal paper receipts commonly used in shopping malls may pose serious health risks due to the presence of bisphenol A (BPA) and bisphenol S (BPS). These chemicals can quickly be absorbed through the skin, sometimes within 10 seconds of contact, and the absorption rate increases significantly if hand lotion or sanitizer is used beforehand. Studies suggest that BPA and BPS can disrupt hormonal balance, potentially causing irregular menstrual cycles and increasing the risk of breast cancer in women. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable, as exposure may affect fetal development, leading to low birth weight, weak immunity, or premature birth. Experts recommend opting for digital receipts instead of printed ones, washing hands immediately after handling receipts, and avoiding the use of sanitizers before touching them to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.

Bangladesh is facing a renewed dengue threat as Aedes mosquitoes, the primary carriers of the virus, continue to spread from urban to rural areas. Public health experts, including Professor Mushtaq Hossain, have emphasized that eliminating Aedes mosquitoes is crucial to controlling dengue outbreaks, but current efforts remain insufficient. The Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) reported around 77,000 dengue hospitalizations and 307 deaths so far this year, following a record 350,000 cases and nearly 2,000 deaths in 2023. Entomologists note that Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes can be identified by their black-and-white striped bodies and hairy antennae. These mosquitoes typically breed in clean, stagnant water found in flower pots, containers, or urban gardens, though recent studies show they can adapt to polluted water as well. Experts warn that climate change and rapid urbanization are accelerating the spread of dengue across Bangladesh, making community engagement and preventive measures more urgent than ever.

Government Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum visited Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) on Friday afternoon to assess the condition of those injured in the recent earthquake that struck across Bangladesh. Arriving at the hospital’s emergency department around 1:45 p.m., she spoke with patients receiving treatment and inquired about their progress. During her visit, she also met an injured student from Dhaka University and expressed condolences to the family of a child killed in Narsingdi, assuring them of government support. According to hospital authorities, the earthquake has so far left 39 people injured, with two admitted for treatment and one child confirmed dead. Nurjahan Begum emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring prompt medical care and necessary assistance for all victims. Hospital officials briefed her on the ongoing treatment efforts and the overall condition of the patients.

Twelve-year-old Aryan Afif, who suffered severe burns in the Uttara Milestone School and College plane crash in Dhaka, has finally returned home after 122 days of intensive treatment. Admitted to the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery with 40% burns, Aryan underwent 34 surgeries and spent multiple periods in the ICU, including three days on life support. Doctors initially feared for his survival, but Aryan’s determination and the relentless efforts of medical staff led to his remarkable recovery. On November 20, he was discharged and reunited with his mother, who expressed deep gratitude and emotion. Institute Director Dr. Mohammad Nasir Uddin described Aryan’s case as one of the most challenging in their careers, emphasizing both physical and psychological healing. The institute will continue to provide follow-up care, while Dr. Uddin urged society to support Aryan’s long-term rehabilitation.

The Bangladesh government has issued the 2025 gazette amending the Organ Transplantation Act, introducing major reforms to curb fraud and illegal trade. The new law expands the definition of donors to include emotional donors—such as spouses, adopted relatives, or long-term friends—alongside biological and cadaveric donors. It mandates strict verification, psychological evaluation, and ethical approval for emotional donations. The amendment also legalizes swap transplants between mismatched donor-recipient pairs under national registry oversight. For the first time, the law defines 'brain death' medically to facilitate cadaveric donations. A national transplant registry will record all donor-recipient data, hospital authorizations, and ethical committee decisions under the Health Ministry’s supervision. Only government-approved hospitals and surgeons can perform transplants, meeting international standards. The law imposes severe penalties for organ trafficking, coercion, or falsification, including license cancellation and up to ten years’ imprisonment. While cadaveric donation remains voluntary, the law encourages it to build a donation culture respecting ethical and religious values.

Speakers at a reception for the newly elected 2025 executive committee of the Bangladesh Midwifery Society (BMS) emphasized that recognizing and empowering midwives can significantly reduce maternal and newborn mortality in Bangladesh. The event, organized by BRAC James P Grant School of Public Health at BRAC University, highlighted the growing acceptance and importance of midwives in maternal and neonatal care. Officials from the Directorate of Nursing and Midwifery and UNFPA called for expanding midwifery positions and responsibilities nationwide. BRAC University representatives reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening midwifery education, leadership, and professional standards. The new BMS leadership pledged to promote midwife-led care centers, ensure proper protocols in labor rooms, and improve training and career advancement opportunities. Experts agreed that evidence-based practices, safe working environments, and professional recognition are crucial to transforming Bangladesh’s maternal and newborn health services.

Around 20 million people in Bangladesh are suffering from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), according to experts speaking at a seminar organized by Evercare Hospital Dhaka to mark World COPD Day 2025. COPD, a group of chronic respiratory conditions including bronchitis, emphysema, and chronic asthma, is the third leading cause of death globally after heart disease and stroke. The prevalence rate among Bangladeshi adults stands at 12.5%, with rural areas being more affected than urban ones. Specialists emphasized that smoking cessation, pollution control, mask use, lung rehabilitation, balanced diet, and early detection can significantly improve patients’ quality of life. They also called for stronger public awareness, better primary healthcare, and regular lung function tests to prevent and manage the disease. The event featured presentations on non-invasive ventilation and surgical management of COPD, and was attended by leading respiratory and thoracic specialists.

As winter returns to South Asia, markets fill with fresh water chestnuts, a seasonal fruit celebrated for its crisp texture and remarkable nutritional value. Rich in potassium, manganese, copper, vitamin B6, and antioxidants, water chestnuts support heart health, brain function, and immunity—especially vital during the cold season. The fruit’s complex carbohydrates provide sustained energy without spiking blood sugar, making it ideal for students, athletes, and professionals. High fiber content aids digestion and prevents constipation, while its hydrating nature helps maintain electrolyte balance. Low in calories and high in fiber, it also supports weight management. Antioxidants and vitamin E contribute to healthier skin and hair, and its low glycemic index makes it safe for diabetics when consumed in moderation. Whether eaten raw, boiled, or as flour, water chestnuts remain a versatile, gluten-free, and nutrient-dense food choice for winter wellness.

A new Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS 2025) by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) and UNICEF reveals that cesarean (C-section) deliveries in Bangladesh have surged by 32.7% over the past decade, reaching 51.8% in 2025 compared to 19.1% in 2012–13. The rate is higher in urban areas (56%) than in rural regions (50%), and wealthier women are more likely to undergo C-sections than poorer ones. Experts warn that unnecessary C-sections are driven by private hospitals’ financial incentives, fear of labor pain, and lack of proper medical guidance. UNICEF’s country director Rana Flowers called the trend “abnormal,” noting that 75% of women now deliver in hospitals, many through costly surgical procedures that push families into poverty. Public health experts urge stronger government oversight, ethical medical practices, and awareness campaigns to promote normal deliveries and reduce health risks for mothers and newborns.

In the remote hill areas of Rangamati’s Kaukhali and Baghaichhari upazilas, the Bangladesh Army has been conducting free medical camps to provide healthcare to communities cut off from modern medical facilities. The initiative, ongoing since November 10, includes doctors and specialists offering treatment and distributing medicines worth around two lakh taka. However, the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF), an armed group opposing the Chittagong Hill Tracts Peace Accord, has reportedly been threatening locals not to attend the camps, warning of fines and punishment. Despite initial fear and low turnout, attendance increased later as residents realized the army’s humanitarian intent. The army reaffirmed its commitment to peace, security, and welfare in the hill region, vowing not to be deterred by intimidation. Local leaders and residents praised the army’s efforts and urged continuation of such medical services to address the severe healthcare shortage in the area.