Pakistani folklore

Senior Pakistani actress and film maker Rubina Ashraf has spoken about postpartum depression and the emotional challenges women may face during pregnancy and after giving birth. Rubina Ashraf recently appeared as a guest on the television show Good Morning Pakistan where she discussed women’s mental health and the importance of emotional support during pregnancy and motherhood. She said that in the past, mental health problems linked to pregnancy and childbirth were often not taken seriously.  Society usually treated childbirth as a normal responsibility of every woman without fully understanding how difficult the experience could be for some mothers. The actress explained that pregnancy brings many physical changes to a woman’s body including changes in the skin weight and overall health. Along with happiness these changes can sometimes cause stress anxiety and emotional pressure. She added that a lack of proper care and support during this period may make a woman more vulnerable to serious emotional difficulties including postpartum depression. Rubina also highlighted the importance of a husband’s love care and understanding during pregnancy and after childbirth. She said that managing physical changes household responsibilities  and caring for a newborn can be challenging so emotional and practical support from a partner can make a big difference. Her comments also highlight the need to take women’s mental health seriously and ensure that new mothers receive proper care understanding and support.

Liver specialists in the United Arab Emirates are warning that liver disease can develop silently for many years.  Many people do not know they have a liver problem until the damage becomes severe. Doctors explain that the liver does not have pain sensing nerves so it usually does not hurt even when it is damaged.  It is also a very strong organ that can keep working normally even after 70% to 80% of it has been affected. Because of this fatty liver disease and other liver conditions may progress quietly for 10 to 30 years without clear symptoms. If they are not found early they can lead to liver scarring (cirrhosis) liver failure and in some cases the need for a liver transplant. Fatty liver cases are increasing Experts estimate that around 30% to 40% of adults in the UAE have fatty liver disease.  The condition is now called Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) because it is mainly linked to problems with the body’s metabolism. Without treatment MASLD can progress to liver inflammation scarring cirrhosis and even complete liver failure. Young adults are also at risk Doctors say liver disease is no longer a problem only for older adults. Rising rates of obesity type 2 diabetes excess weight and metabolic syndrome are increasing the number of cases among younger people as well. As obesity and diabetes continue to rise experts expect more people to develop serious liver disease in the future.   Why Symptoms Often go unnoticed The liver stays “silent” for two main reasons. First it does not have pain nerves. Second the healthy part of the liver continues to do its job even when a large portion is damaged. Early symptoms if they appear are often mild. These may include ongoing tiredness low energy weakness or slight discomfort in the upper abdomen.  Many people ignore these signs. Who is most at risk? People with type 2 diabetes obesity high cholesterol metabolic syndrome heavy alcohol use or a lack of physical activity have a higher risk of developing fatty liver disease. Research suggests that about 60% of people with type 2 diabetes also have fatty liver disease. However experts stress that even people with a healthy weight can develop the condition especially if they have a family history of liver disease an unhealthy diet or low levels of exercise. Gym goers should be careful too Doctors say they are seeing more people with fatty liver who do not drink alcohol are not overweight and consider themselves healthy. Experts warn that  eating too much sugar taking low quality supplements especially muscle building products getting too little sleep dealing with long-term stress, and sitting for many hours can all harm the liver. Unnecessary medicines and unregulated herbal supplements may also put extra pressure on the liver. Warning Signs that need medical attention Although liver disease may not cause symptoms at first you should see a doctor if you experience •Constant tiredness or weakness •Unexplained weight loss •Loss of appetite •Pain or swelling in the abdomen •Ongoing nausea •Seek urgent medical care if you notice. •Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice) •Dark colored urine •Very pale stools •Swelling in the legs or abdomen •Easy bruising •Confusion or changes in mental alertness •Vomiting blood or blood in the stool Early detection can make a difference Experts say many liver diseases can be slowed down if they are diagnosed early.  In some cases part of the damage can even improve with proper treatment and healthy lifestyle changes. Losing excess weight controlling blood sugar and cholesterol eating a balanced diet exercising regularly and staying active are all important for keeping the liver healthy. Get regular liver checkups Doctors recommend that people at higher risk have liver function tests blood sugar and cholesterol checks and a liver ultrasound or FibroScan at least once a year. A FibroScan is a quick painless test that can detect fat buildup and scarring in the liver within minutes. Experts say the liver often gives no warning signs making regular screening one of the best ways to protect your liver health.

Hani Rasheed Through the pages of your newspaper, I want to draw attention to the gradual disappearance of Baloch culture. We proudly call ourselves Baloch, but sadly, many of us are no longer following our own traditions, values and cultural practices. Our language, traditional dress, customs and respect for elders are slowly being replaced by modern influences. Modern life is not wrong, but forgetting our identity is a serious concern. Our culture is our history and a symbol of our identity. If we do not protect it today, future generations may know the word “Baloch” but forget the true meaning of Balochi culture. The government, schools and families should work together to promote Balochi language, traditions and cultural values. Young people should be encouraged to learn about their history and respect their cultural roots. I hope your newspaper will highlight this important issue and encourage people to protect our beautiful Baloch culture.