A major new international study has found a strong link between excessive screen time and mental health challenges in adolescents, including rising rates of insomnia, anxiety, and depression. The report, published by the Global Youth Wellness Foundation (GYWF), surveyed 72,000 teenagers aged 13 to 19 across 20 countries, including Bangladesh, the U.S., UK, and Japan. The study revealed that teenagers who spend more than 4 hours a day on social media or smartphones are twice as likely to report symptoms of poor sleep quality, mood swings, and lack of motivation. Â Digital Overload and the "Always-On" Culture "Teens today are exposed to a constant stream of notifications, comparisons, and content that overstimulates the brain," said Dr. Nafisa Chowdhury, lead researcher on the Bangladesh team. âIt disrupts their sleep cycles, reduces face-to-face interactions, and fuels self-esteem issues.â Many teens reported checking their phones immediately before sleeping and even waking up at night to respond to messages or scroll through TikTok and Instagram. Â Â Mental Health Crisis in the Digital Age The study found: 34% of respondents reported signs of clinical depression 41% had trouble sleeping more than 3 nights a week 29% felt "chronically anxious" or socially disconnected Girls were more likely to report emotional distress linked to social media use In Dhaka, psychologists at private clinics say theyâve seen a threefold increase in teen patients over the past two years. Â Â What Experts Recommend Digital curfews: No screens 1 hour before bed App timers: Set daily limits for entertainment/social platforms Offline time: Encourage outdoor activities or family meals Mental health education: Include digital wellness in school curriculum Government Initiatives Underway In response to the growing concern, Bangladeshâs Ministry of Education is working with health officials to launch a "Safe Screens" campaign in schools, promoting healthy digital habits and offering workshops for both students and parents. âThis is a national issue, and we must protect our next generation,â said Dr. Mostafa Kamal, advisor to the National Adolescent Health Program.
Hospitals across Asia, Europe, and parts of North America are reporting a sharp rise in heat-related illnesses as global temperatures reach record highs this July. Health authorities are issuing urgent heatwave warnings and advising people, especially the elderly and children, to take precautions as climate change fuels more extreme weather events. According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), over 60 countries have recorded temperatures above 42°C (107.6°F) in the last two weeks â the highest since 2019. Cities like Delhi, Dhaka, Cairo, and Phoenix are seeing emergency rooms fill up with patients suffering from heatstroke, dehydration, and cardiovascular strain.  Vulnerable Populations at Risk  The elderly, people with chronic diseases, outdoor workers, and those without access to cooling are especially vulnerable.âWe are seeing a rise in severe dehydration, kidney problems, and even deaths due to prolonged heat exposure,â said Dr. Tahmina Rahman, Head of Emergency Medicine at Dhaka Shishu Hospital. In Bangladesh, at least 32 people have died due to heat-related complications in the last month alone, and over 1,500 patients have been treated for heat exhaustion across government hospitals.  Governments Respond With Emergency Measures  Countries are issuing heatwave alerts, distributing drinking water, and opening "cooling shelters" in public spaces. Bangladeshâs Ministry of Health has launched a hotline for emergency support and is advising schools to adjust class hours or shift to remote learning during extreme heat. âWe are urging citizens to stay indoors during peak hours, wear light clothing, and stay hydrated,â said Dr. Abu Nasir, spokesperson for the DGHS. Experts say the current crisis is a warning of whatâs to come if global warming is not addressed more aggressively. âClimate change isnât just an environmental issue anymore â itâs a public health emergency,â warned Dr. Lin Zhang, a climate-health researcher at the University of Toronto. The UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) predicts that by 2030, heatwaves could claim over 250,000 lives annually if current trends continue.  What You Can Do: Avoid going out between 12 PM and 4 PM Drink 2.5â3 liters of water daily Use fans, cool cloths, or wet towels Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles Check on elderly neighbors or those living alone  If you experience signs of heatstroke (dizziness, dry skin, rapid heartbeat), seek medical attention immediately.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning about the sharp rise in lifestyle-related illnesses worldwide, calling for immediate action to combat what experts are calling a "silent epidemic" of preventable diseases. According to a 2025 Global Health Report released this week, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease, and depression are responsible for nearly 74% of all global deaths â a dramatic increase from previous years.  A Crisis Fueled by Modern Living  Experts blame modern lifestyles â including sedentary behavior, unhealthy diets, stress, lack of sleep, and excessive screen time â for the growing burden of NCDs. âPeople are moving less, eating more processed food, and living in high-stress environments,â said Dr. Maria Caruso, WHOâs Director of Global Wellness. âThe result is a generation at greater risk of chronic illness at younger ages.â In Bangladesh, recent health data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare shows that over 12 million adults are living with diabetes, and cases of high blood pressure among people under 35 have nearly doubled since 2020.  Mental Health Under Pressure  Alongside physical health concerns, mental health remains a major issue. The pandemic's long-term effects, coupled with economic uncertainty and social media addiction, have driven a steep rise in anxiety and depression. A 2025 survey by BRAC Health found that 1 in 3 young people in urban Bangladesh experience moderate to severe stress, often linked to academic pressure, unemployment, and excessive smartphone use. âIncreased screen time, disrupted sleep cycles, and a lack of outdoor activity are major contributors,â explained Dr. Rubina Haque, a psychologist at Dhaka Medical College Hospital. âMany young people are silently struggling.â  New Push for Preventive Care  In response to these trends, health authorities in many countries are shifting focus from treatment to prevention. Bangladeshâs government is launching new public awareness campaigns promoting physical activity, mental health checkups, and regular screenings for blood pressure and blood sugar. Several schools and workplaces are introducing mandatory fitness breaks, healthy canteens, and digital wellness programs aimed at reducing stress and encouraging healthier living. âHealth is no longer just a hospital issue,â said Dr. Kamal Uddin, Director of Community Health at the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). âItâs a personal, family, and societal responsibility.â  Tech and Telemedicine on the Rise  Meanwhile, telemedicine and AI-powered health apps are making basic care more accessible. Platforms like Doctorola and Praava Health are helping patients connect with doctors online, order medicines, and monitor chronic conditions from home. Wearable devices, like smartwatches with health tracking, are also gaining popularity for real-time monitoring of heart rate, sleep, and stress levels.  Looking Ahead  As the world faces growing health threats â from poor lifestyle habits to environmental pollution â experts stress the importance of early education, community support, and government action. âIf we donât act now, weâll have a future generation thatâs sicker and more dependent on long-term treatment,â warned Dr. Caruso. âBut with the right interventions, much of this is still preventable.â
A new study published this week in the British Journal of Sports Medicine reveals that walking just 30 minutes a day can significantly reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Researchers from Kingâs College London followed over 12,000 adults aged between 40 and 70 for a period of 10 years. The study found that those who engaged in brisk walking daily had up to a 25% lower risk of heart-related illnesses compared to those with a sedentary lifestyle. âWalking is one of the simplest and most accessible forms of physical activity, yet its benefits are profound,â said Dr. Amelia White, the lead author of the study. âOur research confirms that even moderate movement each day can have a powerful impact on long-term health.â  Other Key Findings: Participants who walked in green or natural environments saw greater mental health improvements. Risk of Type 2 diabetes was reduced by 19% in regular walkers. Those who walked in groups had higher motivation to stay active. Participants who walked in green or natural environments saw greater mental health improvements. Risk of Type 2 diabetes was reduced by 19% in regular walkers. Those who walked in groups had higher motivation to stay active.  A Global Trend Health experts worldwide are echoing the message, especially in urban centers where sedentary lifestyles are increasingly linked to health problems. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently emphasized physical activity as a top priority for improving global health outcomes. A new study published this week in the British Journal of Sports Medicine reveals that walking just 30 minutes a day can significantly reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Researchers from Kingâs College London followed over 12,000 adults aged between 40 and 70 for a period of 10 years. The study found that those who engaged in brisk walking daily had up to a 25% lower risk of heart-related illnesses compared to those with a sedentary lifestyle. âWalking is one of the simplest and most accessible forms of physical activity, yet its benefits are profound,â said Dr. Amelia White, the lead author of the study. âOur research confirms that even moderate movement each day can have a powerful impact on long-term health.â  Public Health Response In response to the findings, the UKâs Department of Health and Social Care announced plans to launch a new campaign titled âStep Forward: 30 Minutes a Dayâ to encourage more people to incorporate walking into their daily routine. Dr. Amelia White, the lead author of the study. âOur research confirms that even moderate movement each day can have a powerful impact on long-term health.â  A Global Trend Health experts worldwide are echoing the message, especially in urban centers where sedentary lifestyles are increasingly linked to health problems. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently emphasized physical activity as a top priority for improving global health outcomes.
In recent years, Bangladesh has witnessed a concerning surge in lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and obesity. Health experts and medical professionals are sounding the alarm as these non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are becoming increasingly common among people of all ages, especially in urban areas. The trend indicates a significant shift in the nationâs health landscape, which once was more focused on communicable diseases and infections. Â According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics and several health studies, one in every three adults is at risk of developing high blood pressure, while diabetes is affecting both middle-aged and younger individuals at an alarming rate. Cardiovascular diseases are now one of the leading causes of premature death in the country. Doctors say this shift is largely driven by rapid urbanization, poor lifestyle choices, and lack of health education. Â The root causes of this growing health threat are deeply linked to changing lifestyles. Fast food consumption has increased dramatically in the past decade, especially among the youth. Fried items, sugary drinks, and processed snacks have replaced home-cooked meals for many people. At the same time, physical activity has decreased due to technology-driven work and entertainment habits. Office workers spend long hours sitting, children prefer mobile games over outdoor play, and people generally avoid walking even short distances. Â Stress is another major factor contributing to lifestyle diseases. Busy work schedules, financial pressure, and social expectations are leading to sleep disorders and mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Unfortunately, mental health remains a less talked-about topic in our society, leaving many people untreated and unaware of the connection between stress and physical illness. Â Doctors are urging people to adopt preventive measures rather than waiting for symptoms to appear. These measures include eating a healthy, balanced diet with more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains; drinking sufficient water; avoiding excessive sugar and salt; and engaging in regular physical activities such as walking, yoga, or exercise. Avoiding smoking and alcohol is also highly recommended. Â Health campaigns and educational programs are essential to raise awareness across all sections of society. Experts suggest that schools should introduce health and nutrition education from an early stage. Workplaces should encourage short breaks, offer healthy snacks, and promote mental wellness. Government healthcare centers can also play a key role by organizing regular health check-up camps and offering guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Â The government has taken some steps, including launching awareness drives and strengthening non-communicable disease units in hospitals. However, more action is needed to reach rural populations and lower-income groups who often have less access to healthcare and information. Â The rise of lifestyle diseases is not just a medical issueâitâs a social, economic, and national concern. If left unaddressed, it could burden families with high treatment costs, reduce workforce productivity, and increase pressure on the already strained healthcare system. Â Public health specialists are warning that Bangladesh could face a serious health crisis in the next two decades if preventive steps are not taken now. The message is clear: small daily changes like eating nutritious food, staying physically active, reducing screen time, and managing stress can have a huge impact on long-term health. Now is the time to act, before these silent diseases take a louder toll on our lives.
Mikel Arteta promised to end Arsenal's five-year trophy drought next season after a 1-0 win against Newcastle secured their place in the Champions League.
As soon as he hears the news of someone's death, he rushes to the graveyard on horseback with his required tools. Like a special companion on the final journey of a person, the 67-year-old extends his sincere hands. In a heartbreaking twist of fate, the faithful companion of gravedigger Manu Mia was killed yesterday, while Manu himself remains hospitalised, battling for his life. Â The 65-year-old Manu Mia, a familiar figure in the community for over four decades, has long been known for his humble service digging graves and transporting bodies in his modest wooden cart, drawn by his beloved horse, Shonar Pakhi. Residents say the bond between Manu and the gentle brown mare was unlike any they had seenâa relationship forged through hardship, routine, and deep affection. Manu was admitted to the hospital last week following complications from a respiratory illness. âHe kept asking about the horse even from the hospital bed,â said his nephew, Rafique Mia. âHe didnât want her left alone.â Tragedy struck yesterday morning when Shonar Pakhi was struck and fatally injured by a speeding motorbike near the village graveyard. Witnesses said the horse had broken loose from her makeshift rope tether and was calmly walking toward the graveyard entrance, perhaps out of instinct. Â âShe was not just a horse; she was family,â said Rahima Begum, a long-time neighbour. âThat animal had pulled hundreds of funeral carts, always steady, always calm. To see her die like this, without her owner even knowing yetâitâs just too much.â The rider of the motorbike fled the scene, and police say they are investigating the hit-and-run incident. So far, no arrests have been made. News of the horseâs death has not yet been shared with Manu, who remains in critical but stable condition. Family members are struggling with how to break the devastating news. Â Locals have expressed shock and sorrow, with many calling for better enforcement of road safety rules in the area. A small vigil was held near the graveyard last night, where residents lit candles and shared memories of the old gravedigger and his loyal horse. âManu Miaâs work was never glamorous, but he did it with dignity,â said Abdul Karim, a community elder. âNow, while he fights for his life, he has lost the only creature who stood by him through every sorrowful journey. Itâs a tragic chapter in a quiet manâs life.â
Global stock markets remained mixed today as investors weighed fresh U.S. inflation data, corporate earnings reports, and the ongoing economic uncertainty in China and Europe. The U.S. stock market opened slightly higher on Monday morning, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average rising 0.4%, the S&P 500 climbing 0.3%, and the Nasdaq Composite gaining 0.5% in early trading. Investors responded positively to June's U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, which showed inflation cooling slightly to an annual rate of 3.0%, down from 3.3% in May."Markets are optimistic that the Federal Reserve may pause or even cut interest rates by the fall," said Lisa Raymond, chief analyst at Morgan & Co. "But it's still a wait-and-see situation, especially with more earnings coming this week."  Wall Street Opens Higher Dow +0.4%, S&P 500 +0.3%, Nasdaq +0.5% on Monday morning. Boosted by June CPI showing inflation cooled to 3.0% (down from 3.3%). Hopes rise for potential Fed rate cut or pause by fall. The U.S. stock market opened slightly higher on Monday morning, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average rising 0.4%, the S&P 500 climbing 0.3%, and the Nasdaq Composite gaining 0.5% in early trading. Investors responded positively to June's U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, which showed inflation cooling slightly to an annual rate of 3.0%, down from 3.3% in May. "Markets are optimistic that the Federal Reserve may pause or even cut interest rates by the fall," said Lisa Raymond, chief analyst at Morgan & Co. "But it's still a wait-and-see situation, especially with more earnings coming this week."  Tech Leads the Way Technology stocks led the gains in the U.S., with Apple (AAPL) up 1.8% and Nvidia (NVDA) jumping 2.4%, as demand for AI and semiconductors remains strong. Tesla (TSLA) also rebounded, rising 3.1% after announcing better-than-expected Q2 vehicle deliveries. Global stock markets showed a mixed performance as investors weighed persistent inflation concerns against a wave of corporate earnings reports. While strong results from major tech companies helped lift some indexes, uncertainty surrounding central bank policies and the future path of interest rates kept others in check. In the U.S.,  Europe Struggles on Growth Concerns  Meanwhile, European markets showed little movement, with the FTSE 100 in London flat and Germanyâs DAX down 0.2%. Investors remain concerned about weak industrial output and rising energy costs across the Eurozone.âThe European economy is showing signs of fatigue,â said Carla Dupont, economist at BNP Paribas. âHigh borrowing costs and geopolitical tensions are dragging down business activity.âGlobal stock markets showed a mixed performance as investors weighed persistent inflation concerns against a wave of corporate earnings reports. While strong results from major tech companies helped lift some indexes, uncertainty surrounding central bank policies and the future path of interest rates kept others in check. In the U.S., Market Performance Summary Table Region Index/Company Movement (%) Key Driver USA Dow Jones +0.4% Positive CPI report (3.0% inflation)  S&P 500 +0.3% Rate cut optimism  Nasdaq +0.5% Tech stock gains  Apple (AAPL) +1.8% Strong AI demand  Nvidia (NVDA) +2.4% Semiconductor growth  Tesla (TSLA) +3.1% Strong Q2 deliveries Europe FTSE 100 (UK) 0.0% Flat due to economic uncertainty  DAX (Germany) -0.2% Weak industrial output, high energy costs Asia Nikkei 225 (Japan) +0.6% Strong export performance  Shanghai Composite -1.2% Property sector risks, low consumer spending  Asia Mixed as Chinese Markets Slump  In Asia, markets showed mixed results. Japanâs Nikkei 225 gained 0.6%, supported by strong export data. However, Chinese markets fell sharply, with the Shanghai Composite down 1.2%, as fears about the countryâs property sector and sluggish consumer spending persisted. Gains in consumer and tech sectors pushed markets higher, but weaker-than-expected bank earnings and inflation-related jitters limited broader momentum. European markets edged lower as traders grew cautious about global trade tensions and slowing growth indicators, while Asian markets saw mixed results, with Hong Kong posting modest gains and Tokyo slipping slightly. Overall, market sentiment remains cautious as investors await further economic data and guidance from central banks.  Looking Ahead  Investors are now turning their focus to key corporate earnings this week from major banks like JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Citigroup, as well as tech giants like Netflix and Microsoft. The results are expected to provide a clearer picture of business resilience amid high interest rates and uncertain global demand. Overall, market sentiment remains cautious as investors await further economic data and guidance from central banks.
Tourism Rebounds Strongly in 2025 as Travelers Seek New Adventures Post-Pandemic  The global tourism industry has entered a period of remarkable recovery in 2025, following several years of pandemic-related disruption. With the lifting of most travel restrictions, renewed consumer confidence, and a deep craving for exploration, tourism has surged across continents. Experts say this rebound is not merely a return to old patterns, but a reshaping of how people travel, what they value, and how the industry responds.  International Travel Reaches Record Levels  Countries around the world have seen a significant rise in international arrivals. Popular destinations like France, Thailand, Italy, and Mexico are reporting visitor numbers that not only match but exceed pre-pandemic figures. Airports are bustling, cruise ships are sailing at full capacity, and global airlines have reinstated and even expanded routes. This surge is being driven by both leisure and business travelers eager to reconnect with the world.  Tourists Demand Deeper, More Meaningful Experiences  Travelers in 2025 are no longer satisfied with generic sightseeing tours. There is a growing demand for immersive experiencesâwhether it's living with a local family in a remote village, joining a traditional cooking class, or volunteering in conservation projects. This shift reflects a deeper desire for cultural understanding, personal growth, and making lasting memories, rather than just collecting passport stamps.  Technology Transforms the Travel Experience  Advancements in technology have revolutionized every stage of the travel journey. From AI-powered itinerary planners and mobile boarding passes to biometric check-ins and real-time translation apps, modern travelers are enjoying unprecedented convenience. Virtual reality previews and augmented reality tours are also helping travelers plan smarter and engage more deeply with destinations.  Sustainability Becomes a Core Concern  Post-pandemic travelers are more environmentally conscious than ever before. Eco-tourism has moved from niche to mainstream, with tourists choosing green-certified hotels, carbon offset flights, and low-impact transport options. Many are also seeking out destinations that emphasize environmental protection, wildlife preservation, and sustainable development. Tour operators and governments are responding by investing in responsible travel infrastructure and education.  Flexible Booking and Safety Measures Still Matter  Despite the easing of global health threats, travelers remain cautious. Flexible booking policies, free cancellations, and comprehensive travel insurance are considered essential. Tourists also favor destinations with clear safety protocols and reliable healthcare systems. These preferences are shaping the policies of airlines, hotels, and tour agencies, which now compete not only on price and location but on traveler assurance.  Domestic and Regional Tourism Remains Strong  While international travel has boomed, domestic tourism has also seen steady growth. Many travelers are discovering hidden gems within their own countriesânational parks, cultural heritage sites, and lesser-known townsâthanks to local government campaigns and improved transportation networks. Weekend getaways, road trips, and regional cruises are more popular than ever, helping stimulate local economies and reduce pressure on overcrowded hotspots. Travel Trends Are Redefining Industry Standards. From "workcations" that blend business with leisure to solo female travel and multi-generational family trips, the diversity of travel preferences is expanding. Social media continues to influence destination choices, while personalized travel experiencesâtailored by data and AIâare raising expectations across the industry. The result is a tourism ecosystem that is more agile, inclusive, and innovative. Â
In an increasingly visual world, photography has evolved far beyond a hobbyâit has become a powerful tool of connection, identity, and even resistance. From the alleyways of Marrakech to the streets of Tokyo, people around the globe are using photography to capture their realities, share their truths, and reimagine how we see the world. In 2025, the art of photography is no longer limited to professionals or those with expensive equipment. With powerful cameras embedded in nearly every smartphone and editing apps accessible to all, the global population has become a generation of storytellers. Â A New Language of Expression Photography has become the most universal visual languageâtranscending borders, politics, and even spoken words. A single image can spark movements, ignite conversations, and bring attention to marginalised voices. From the war-torn zones of Gaza and Ukraine to peaceful protests in Europe and climate marches in South America, everyday citizens are documenting history in real time. These raw, unfiltered images often make their way to global audiences faster than traditional news media. "The smartphone is the new pen," says French photojournalist Camille Laurent. "People donât just take photosâthey share their worldviews." Â The Rise of Visual Identity In cities like New York, Seoul, and Berlin, photography has become deeply intertwined with personal branding. On platforms like Instagram and Threads, visuals are the currency of influence. Whether itâs fashion, travel, activism, or mental health, photography is the lens through which individuals craft and project their identity. This has also sparked a global aestheticâwhere minimalist cafes in Istanbul resemble those in Paris, and sunlit "golden hour" selfies are universal. Yet within this visual sameness, cultural uniqueness is also being celebrated. Photographers are reclaiming their heritageâusing traditional attire, rural landscapes, and local rituals to tell stories that challenge stereotypes and global homogenisation. Â AI, Ethics & The Future As artificial intelligence blends with photography, questions of ethics and authenticity are surfacing. AI-generated portraits and edited realities raise concerns about truth, body image, and media manipulation. Yet, at the same time, AI tools are empowering more people to create stunning visuals without formal trainingâdemocratising creativity in ways never imagined. "We're entering an era where the line between photography and digital art is blurring," notes Japanese visual artist Rei Nakamura. "But the emotion behind the image still matters most." Â A Global Bond In refugee camps in Jordan, schoolchildren are given disposable cameras to capture their lives. In Scandinavian forests, nature photographers use drones to document wildlife. On African coastlines, photographers are preserving indigenous stories that were never written down. Despite the diversity of context, one thing is clear: photography connects humanity. It offers empathy. It builds bridges. In the words of American photographer Dorothea Lange, "Photography takes an instant out of time, altering life by holding it still." And today, more than ever, the world is watchingâframe by frame.
In an increasingly visual world, photography has evolved far beyond a hobbyâit has become a powerful tool of connection, identity, and even resistance. From the alleyways of Marrakech to the streets of Tokyo, people around the globe are using photography to capture their realities, share their truths, and reimagine how we see the world. In 2025, the art of photography is no longer limited to professionals or those with expensive equipment. With powerful cameras embedded in nearly every smartphone and editing apps accessible to all, the global population has become a generation of storytellers.  New Language of Expression  Photography has become the most universal visual languageâtranscending borders, politics, and even spoken words. A single image can spark movements, ignite conversations, and bring attention to marginalized voices. From the war-torn zones of Gaza and Ukraine to peaceful protests in Europe and climate marches in South America, everyday citizens are documenting history in real time. These raw, unfiltered images often make their way to global audiences faster than traditional news media. "The smartphone is the new pen," says French photojournalist Camille Laurent. "People donât just take photosâthey share their worldviews."  The Rise of Visual Identity  In cities like New York, Seoul, and Berlin, photography has become deeply intertwined with personal branding. On platforms like Instagram and Threads, visuals are the currency of influence. Whether itâs fashion, travel, activism, or mental health, photography is the lens through which individuals craft and project their identity. This has also sparked a global aestheticâwhere minimalist cafes in Istanbul resemble those in Paris, and sunlit "golden hour" selfies are universal. Yet within this visual sameness, cultural uniqueness is also being celebrated. Photographers are reclaiming their heritageâusing traditional attire, rural landscapes, and local rituals to tell stories that challenge stereotypes and global homogenization.  AI, Ethics & The Future  As artificial intelligence blends with photography, questions of ethics and authenticity are surfacing. AI-generated portraits and edited realities raise concerns about truth, body image, and media manipulation. Yet, at the same time, AI tools are empowering more people to create stunning visuals without formal trainingâdemocratizing creativity in ways never imagined. "Weâre entering an era where the line between photography and digital art is blurring," notes Japanese visual artist Rei Nakamura. "But the emotion behind the image still matters most."  A Global Bond  In refugee camps in Jordan, schoolchildren are given disposable cameras to capture their lives. In Scandinavian forests, nature photographers use drones to document wildlife. On African coastlines, photographers are preserving indigenous stories that were never written down. Despite the diversity of context, one thing is clear: photography connects humanity. It offers empathy. It builds bridges. In the words of American photographer Dorothea Lange, "Photography takes an instant out of time, altering life by holding it still." And today, more than ever, the world is watchingâframe by frame.
A new study published this week in the British Journal of Sports Medicine reveals that walking just 30 minutes a day can significantly reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Researchers from Kingâs College London followed over 12,000 adults aged between 40 and 70 for a period of 10 years. The study found that those who engaged in brisk walking daily had up to a 25% lower risk of heart-related illnesses compared to those with a sedentary lifestyle. âWalking is one of the simplest and most accessible forms of physical activity, yet its benefits are profound,â said Dr. Amelia White, the lead author of the study. âOur research confirms that even moderate movement each day can have a powerful impact on long-term health.â  Other Key Findings: Participants who walked in green or natural environments saw greater mental health improvements. Risk of Type 2 diabetes was reduced by 19% in regular walkers. Those who walked in groups had higher motivation to stay active. Participants who walked in green or natural environments saw greater mental health improvements. Risk of Type 2 diabetes was reduced by 19% in regular walkers. Those who walked in groups had higher motivation to stay active.  A Global Trend Health experts worldwide are echoing the message, especially in urban centers where sedentary lifestyles are increasingly linked to health problems. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently emphasized physical activity as a top priority for improving global health outcomes. A new study published this week in the British Journal of Sports Medicine reveals that walking just 30 minutes a day can significantly reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Researchers from Kingâs College London followed over 12,000 adults aged between 40 and 70 for a period of 10 years. The study found that those who engaged in brisk walking daily had up to a 25% lower risk of heart-related illnesses compared to those with a sedentary lifestyle. âWalking is one of the simplest and most accessible forms of physical activity, yet its benefits are profound,â said Dr. Amelia White, the lead author of the study. âOur research confirms that even moderate movement each day can have a powerful impact on long-term health.â  Public Health Response In response to the findings, the UKâs Department of Health and Social Care announced plans to launch a new campaign titled âStep Forward: 30 Minutes a Dayâ to encourage more people to incorporate walking into their daily routine. Dr. Amelia White, the lead author of the study. âOur research confirms that even moderate movement each day can have a powerful impact on long-term health.â  A Global Trend Health experts worldwide are echoing the message, especially in urban centers where sedentary lifestyles are increasingly linked to health problems. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently emphasized physical activity as a top priority for improving global health outcomes.
